Hidden Greece: Discover Cultural Hotspots Beyond Athens Gabby Teaman October 17, 2024 Destinations, Europe, International Travel It’s no surprise that many travelers to Greece make a beeline for Athens. But savvy explorers know there’s so much more to this country than its famous capital and the ancient artifacts therein. From postcard-perfect islands to ancient villages and charming towns, Greece is bursting with cultural gems waiting to be uncovered. So, step outside your comfort zone and explore all that Greece has to offer beyond the busy streets of Athens. Once you do, you’ll discover a world brimming with film festivals, medieval castles, and fascinating museums. Here’s a guide to some must-see cultural highlights that belong on your Greek bucket list—outside of Athens. Thessaloniki Rotunda of Thessaloniki Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, is perched on the Aegean Sea and is buzzing with life. A great way to start your exploration is at the Rotunda, a Roman monument dating back to 306 A.D. It’s located right next to the Arch of Galerius, so you can easily tick off two historical gems in one go. The Rotunda was built as a mausoleum for Emperor Galerius, but over the centuries, it’s been a pagan temple, a Christian church, and even a mosque. Today, it’s a stunning example of ancient architecture that houses impressive mosaics. Don’t miss the White Tower, another icon of Thessaloniki. This 15th-century tower, once part of the city’s fortifications, is now a museum that takes you through the city’s history. The exhibitions are fascinating, but after learning about Thessaloniki’s past, reward yourself with a balcony view of the sea and the city stretching out below. Stroll along the waterfront promenade afterward — lined with cafes, bars, and restaurants, it’s the perfect spot for people-watching. If you’re in town in November, the Thessaloniki International Film Festival is a must. You can catch screenings of indie films from around the world and rub shoulders with film buffs and filmmakers alike. Patras Roman Odeon in Kos Town About 130 miles west of Athens lies Patras, a lively port city that throws Greece’s biggest carnival every year. The Patras Carnival kicks off every January and often goes on for weeks, filling the streets with parades, costumes, and dance parties. It’s a riot of color and sound, with the Grand Parade being the highlight — a massive celebration where everyone lets loose. If you’re there in the weeks leading up to Easter, don’t miss the Treasure Hunt Game, where teams of locals and tourists race around the city solving clues and completing tasks. Patras isn’t all about carnival fun, though. Just a short drive away, you can check out the Roman Odeon in Kos Town, a beautifully preserved 2nd-century theater that once hosted musical performances and council meetings. If you’re a history lover, you’ll appreciate the detail that’s gone into restoring the marble seats and stage. Head uphill to the Medieval Castle of Patras, built in the 6th century BCE, for some epic views of the city and the coast. Wander through its ancient walls and take in the mix of architectural influences, from Byzantine to Ottoman. Then, head back to the port for a relaxing meal at one of the seafood tavernas, where the catch of the day is always fresh. Ioannina Ioannina Tucked away in northwestern Greece, Ioannina is surrounded with culture and natural beauty. At its center is the Castle of Ioannina, the oldest continuously inhabited Byzantine castle in Greece. Wander through its walls, and you’ll stumble upon museums and historical sites, like the Mosque of Aslan Pasha, which has been transformed into the Municipal Museum of Ioannina. Here, you can explore tons of artifacts from the region’s Christian, Jewish, and Muslim past, offering a fascinating glimpse into its diverse history. But Ioannina is also a great destination for outdoor lovers. The city sits on the shores of Lake Pamvotida, where you can take a boat ride out to the island in the middle of the lake. The island is home to several monasteries, as well as the house of Ali Pasha, the Ottoman ruler of the region in the early 19th century. It’s now a museum where you can learn about his dramatic life and ultimate assassination. After a day of sightseeing, head to the Silversmithing Museum within the castle grounds to discover the region’s silversmithing traditions. With interactive displays and glittering jewelry, this museum will make you appreciate just how important silver was to Ioannina’s economy. Rhodes Palace of the Grand Master in Rhodes Sure, Rhodes is famous for its beaches, but this island is packed with history, too. The Medieval City of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage site that feels like stepping back in time. Wander through its cobblestone streets and Gothic architecture, and you’ll be transported to the days of the Knights of St. John, who ruled the island from 1309 to 1522. Start your exploration at the Palace of the Grand Master, a massive fortress that feels straight out of a fairy tale. Inside, you’ll find intricate mosaics, grand halls, and even medieval weapons on display. Next, take a stroll down the Street of the Knights, a lovingly preserved medieval street lined with buildings that once housed knights from different regions of Europe. Don’t forget to pop into the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes, housed in the old Knights’ Hospital. The museum’s collection includes everything from ancient Greek statues to medieval artifacts, all beautifully displayed. Finish your day with a sunset walk along the ancient walls, where you’ll get a panoramic view of the city and the Mediterranean. Chania, Crete Chania, Crete Chania, on the northwest coast of Crete, is a charming city that history buffs will adore. The Venetian Harbor is the heart of the city, lined with old buildings, waterfront cafes, and the famous lighthouse, where you can soak up the sun while enjoying a coffee or a cocktail. This 14th-century harbor is the perfect place to start your exploration, with its beautiful blend of Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek architecture. Take a walk along the harbor, and you’ll pass by cafes, boutiques, and restaurants where you can try local Cretan delicacies like dakos (a traditional bread salad) or grilled octopus. Explore Chania’s Old Town and its maze of narrow streets, where you’ll find colorful houses, hidden squares, and shops selling handmade jewelry and crafts. The Maritime Museum of Crete, located near the harbor, is another must-see. Here, you can dive into the island’s naval history, from ancient times through World War II, with exhibits ranging from ship models to artifacts recovered from the sea. If you’re up for more exploring, take a day trip to the nearby Samaria Gorge, one of the longest gorges in Europe. The hike through towering cliffs and wildflower-covered valleys is a breathtaking way to experience Crete’s natural beauty. Delphi Temple of Apollo in Delphi Delphi might be famous for its ancient Oracle, but today it’s a mix of history and modern life. The town itself is a charming place to wander, with cafes and shops selling local goods like honey and olive oil. Visit the Archaeological Site of Delphi to walk among ruins once considered the center of the world. The Temple of Apollo, where the Oracle gave her prophecies, is still standing. It’s easy to imagine the ancient pilgrims who traveled here seeking answers. The nearby museum is packed with treasures from the site, including the famous Charioteer of Delphi statue, an exquisite bronze sculpture that dates back to around 470 BCE. It’s one of the most celebrated works of ancient Greek art, and seeing it up close is a real treat. Be sure to visit the theater and the stadium, which once hosted the Pythian Games, a precursor to the modern Olympics. After a day of exploring ancient history, relax in the village’s cafes, where you can enjoy views of the surrounding mountains. You May Also Like: Visit the Best Beaches of the Mediterranean Kalamata Kalamata, Greece Located in the Peloponnese, Kalamata is known for its delicious olives, but there’s plenty more to see here. Start with a visit to the Kalamata Castle, perched on a hill and offering views that stretch for miles. This fortress has stood since the time of the Trojan War, and it’s full of history. Wander through its ancient walls, and you’ll see traces of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture, as well as panoramic views of the Messinian Gulf. After visiting the castle, head to the Archaeological Museum of Messinia, located in the city’s old market building. The museum’s collection covers the region’s history from prehistoric times through the Byzantine era, with fascinating exhibits on the area’s ancient civilizations. And of course, no trip to Kalamata would be complete without sampling the local olives. Take a tour of one of the region’s olive oil farms, where you can learn about the production process and even taste some of the finest olive oils in Greece. FAQs: Q: When’s a good time of year to visit Greece for cultural experiences? A: A great time to visit Greece for cultural events is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). These months offer pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and a packed calendar of festivals, including film festivals, local celebrations, and historical reenactments. Q: How can I get around Greece if I want to visit cities outside Athens? A: Greece has an extensive network of buses, trains, and ferries connecting cities and islands. Renting a car is also an option for more flexibility, especially if you’re traveling to more remote locations. Domestic flights are available between major cities like Thessaloniki, Crete, and Rhodes. Q: Are there any language barriers for English-speaking travelers? A: English is widely spoken in tourist areas, especially in larger cities like Thessaloniki, Rhodes, and Crete. Signs in museums and tourist sites are often in both Greek and English. However, learning a few basic Greek phrases can enhance your travel experience. Q: What type of currency is used in Greece? A: Greece uses the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted in most places. But it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases, especially in rural areas or on some of the islands where card payments may be less common. Q: Do I need to book tickets in advance for major cultural sites? A: For popular cultural sites like the Palace of the Grand Master in Rhodes or the Archaeological Site of Delphi, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season. Many museums and attractions also offer skip-the-line options or guided tours. Q: What should I wear when visiting ancient sites and religious locations? A: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for ancient sites. For religious sites like monasteries or churches, modest clothing is recommended—this means covering your shoulders and avoiding shorts. Some locations may offer coverings if needed. Did we leave any must-see Greek destinations off our list? Let us know in the comments section below!
