Famous things in Greece. Officially, Greece is called the Hellenic Republic; It is one of the unique countries in the world standing out with its history, culture, mouthwatering cuisine, ancient sites, and the gorgeous islands.
There are so many things Greece is famous for that it would be hard to name a few. The most outstanding fact about Greece is that it is the birthplace of democracy, the creation of the Olympic Games, and rich architectural heritage.
The highlight of the country is the Acropolis with irreplaceable Parthenon, which serves as the symbol of Athens and Greece. Of course, the Greek islands are another point of interest in the country, not just for visitors but also for holidaymakers rushing to find perfect summer vacations. There’s so much more this incredible piece of land is known for, which we will list below.
Famous Greek Islands
We all know that Greece is a little piece of heaven on earth. Astonishingly, this country has around 227 inhabited islands, and all are equally beautiful and unique.
The Greek Islands are top holiday destinations in the world hundreds of thousands of travelers rush to visit every year. One of the unique Greek Islands is Santorini, a perfect destination for honeymooners, romantic sunset views, gentle Aegean breeze, and super delicious food.
The island has experienced a volcanic explosion around 3,500 years ago, which resulted in black-sand beaches and mind-blowing shades of cliffs. Santorini is pretty known for its wine as well. You can enjoy the taste of crisp, dry white wine and enjoy incomparable views of sunset on this romantic island.
Mykonos is another famous island in Greece pretty much known as a glamorous party island not just in Greece but all over the world, leaving Ibiza in the shade. So many young travelers choose to visit this Cycladic Island, particularly knowing that it’s the best Greek island for nightlife. You can be sure to find beach bars full of tourists and house music bouncing from all corners.
Corfu is one of the best Greek islands beautifully surrounded by green forests and picturesque mountains. It will take one’s breath away with its excellent weather, turquoise seas, and multi-cultural monuments and history. It is the queen of the Ionian Islands, which is a beautiful blend of Venetian, British and French colonial influences.
Acropolis and the Parthenon
When saying Greece, the first thing that comes to mind is probably the iconic view of the Temple of the Parthenon. A valid symbol of Greece serving as a reminder of the ancient land.
Acropolis perched on top of a rocky hill preserved from 2,500 years ago leaves the visitors speechless with its proud look and all the history behind it. After all, it is one of the wonders of the ancient world that symbolizes some of the highest achievements of humanity.
Get ready to discover some of the most antique monuments here. One of the most prominent ones, The Parthenon Temple, dedicated to the goddess Athena is considered the world’s most exceptional Doric masterpiece.
Other incredible sites are Erechtherion, Arrhephorion, and of course, the Temple of Athena Nike. Join a walking tour here to have everything explained as well as visit the new Acropolis Museum. See also the Acropolis museum virtual tour.
Acropolis location map
Famous Olive Products
Olives serve as another symbol of Greece. Olive oil is the main ingredient of traditional Greek dishes and is one of the healthiest products too. There is a variety of Greek extra virgin olive oil options with exceptional quality made of various sorts of Greek olives.
You can as well go for a few packs of olives flavored with different local Greek spices. Not only are olives in active use in Greece, but also the olive tree wood. The cultivation of the olive tree in Greece dates back to the Bronze Age Crete, which was around 3500 BC. This tradition still exists in the everyday life of this ancient country.
The Flea Market in Monastiraki, Athens, is full of various right quality products such as sandals, kitchenware, and so much more. Those are also excellent gifts that can serve as souvenirs from Greece. Another great olive product is the local Greek soap, which is originated on the island of Crete and can be found everywhere in Greece.
These 100% natural products are excellent for sensitive skin and have a great scent. You can follow the Greeks’ advice and use olive products in everyday life, which, they say, will increase longevity!
Best Greek Gastronomy
One of the best ways to understand a country’s culture and local lifestyle is through discovering the national cuisine. Greek gastronomical delights don’t need finding out since they have always been famous all over the world.
Rich in authentic flavors and spices coming from centuries ago, the mouthwatering food in Greece will leave you speechless. The famous national dishes in Greece are moussaka, souvlaki, local Greek salad with feta cheese called choriatiki, and much more. Feta is a famous cheese in Greece. It is to be the country’s national cheese made of goat’s milk dating back to the Homeric ages.
Another key to Greek cuisine is the extra virgin olive oil used in most dishes in Greece. Of course, we can’t forget about the national alcoholic drinks in Greece, such as Ouzo, widely popular among locals.
When it comes to Greek wine, it is worth trying. The classic white Assyrtiko or sweet Vinsanto from Santorini are two of the best ones. Some other great options are the local house wines from Lesvos, Rhodes, and Kefalonia. One of the best Greek reds is Xinomavro and among whites – Moschofilero.
If you spent most of your vacations in Crete, consider local raki or “tsikoudia” as the locals call it. Another great option is the sweet Rrakomelo which you surely won’t find anywhere else but Greece. You can try it in all tavernas in Greece.
Greece is also famous for its local liquor. If you want to get something sweeter, surely consider Mastiha liqueur, which originates from the island of Chios.
Greece is one magical country on earth. You can’t compare it to anywhere else. There are many things this country is famous for, starting from being an ancient land where democracy and civilization began to gorgeous islands and local food.
It is a world-famous destination for travelers who wish to explore the ancient sites, holidaymakers seeking perfect beach vacations, or visitors who strive to explore Greece with all its incredible elements. Above we listed some of the most famous things in Greece which should surely be taken into consideration when visiting this country.
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Reed also: Best Greek Islands for food