One Week in Greece

What You Should Know Before Going On A Greece Tour

Experiencing Ancient Greece on Your Tour

The Ancient Greeks founded democracy, created theater, the key principles of modern architecture, philosophy, trial by jury, instituted a mythology still taught to every generation, standardized medicine, and generally provided the foundation to all of Western Civilization.

As a result, we have a couple things to thank them for -- and there is no better way to do this than to visit the many Ancient archaeological sites that stand to this day in Greece. Here are some of the best archaeological sites in Greece:

1. The Acropolis.

This UNESCO world heritage site is a worldwide symbol for the contributions of Ancient Greece to modernity. Some of its most notable features include the theatre of Herod Atticus, the Parthenon, the Temple of Nike Athena, and the Pinacotheca.

2. The Parthenon.

Perhaps the most iconic symbol of Greece, this temple sits in the heart of Athens. Originally dedicated to the goddess Athena, it housed various statues. This massive building, one of the most impressive architectural feats of its time, is truly awe inspiring to see in person.

3. Monolithos Castle in Rhodes.

 Climbing the tall rock that the castle sits on will not only give you a peek at the two 15th century chapels inside of Monolithos, but gorgeous views of the entire island. One interesting feature of the Monolithos castle is that it was built on the foundations of an even older castle, which is easily seen at the spot.

4. Mycenae.

This late Bronze Age city was once one of the epicenters of Greek civilization, and remains remarkably intact.

5. Acropolis of Rhodes.

Made up of the ruins of multiple temples, a small odeion, and other buildings, a guided tour of this spot can offer deep insight into Ancient Grecian life. The surrounding natural sights make the trip particularly enjoyable.

6. Temple of Apollo, Delphi.

Although perhaps not so physically impressive, this spot is overwhelmed with spiritual and historical significance. The home of the Oracle of Delphi, this site plays a role in dozens of ancient myths and modern stories.

Facts about Greece

• The official name of Greece is the Hellenic Republic.
• The saying “taking the bull by its horns” comes from the Greek myth of Hercules saving Crete from a raging bull by seizing its horns
• 80% of Greece is mountainous.
• Continuously inhabited for over 7,000 years, Athens is one of the oldest cities in Europe. It is also the birthplace of democracy, Western philosophy, the Olympic Games, political science, Western literature, historiography, major mathematical principles, and Western theories of tragedy and comedy.
• Greece has more archaeological museums than any other country in the world.
• Greece’s currency, the drachma, was 2,650 years old and Europe’s oldest currency. The drachma was replaced with the Euro in 2002.
• Make sure to try Greece's national dish: moussaka. 
• Voting is required by law for every citizen who is 18 or older.
• Greek people wave with a closed hand as it is considered rude to show your palm of your hand in public.