Sail To Meet Ancient Greek Monuments
Feel the history and vibrance of ancient ruins that are dazzling, brilliant, and still stand tall. If learning history and exploring archaeological sites fuels your soul & sparks your curiosity, a visit to Greece to meet the ancient Greek monuments is a must.
If your plan is to explore mainland Greece towards Athens after hopping in the islands, check out the most magnificent & iconic archaeological sites to visit. Your experience throughout Greece would be surreal. Each time you’d open your eyes, you will feel gratitude to be able to see such wonders.
When planning a visit to Greece, these remarkable ancient seaside Greek monuments should definitely be on your checklist.You can combine your sailing vacation with multiple destinations of ancient Greek monuments spread all around the islands and coastal areas. Each destination has incredible attractions worth exploring, sightseeing tours of ancient temples, monuments and medieval castles, and you can same time experience water activities during your sailing including sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling on the beaches.
We designed this itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Greece! It will ensure you feel like you’ve experienced an excellent taste of Greece!
So, let’s get started!
Get an excellent taste of Greece that you will cherish for life. Although Athens is a deeply interesting and exciting city–but it’s not always a beautiful one. Sometimes its sprawled-out nature can make it a bit of an intimidating one. If you are a cultural buff you must start the voyage from the Acropolis of Athens which is built on precipitous and flat hill Acropolis of Athens - certainly the most famous among Greek acropolises.
Acropolis is the centerpiece of Athens and the most significant heritage of the classical period. Amidst the busy city, it stands proudly with it’s all stateliness reminding us that Athens was cradle of all civilizations. This fortified part of the ancient Greek city is built on a hill. In most cases, Athens' marinas will be the departure point of your voyage, it is an absolute must to visit Acropolis. Before you could start your journey, take time to explore the Acropolis of Athens, the main and most famous archaeological site in Greece. It is also called the Sacred Rock and stands at the highest point of Athens.
It is Europe's most important ancient monument which constructed using fine Pentelian marble during the 5th century. One of the main architectural icon is The Parthenon Temple which is the main building on the Acropolis. Even though most of the temples existed since Archaic times, the Acropolis was unique as it was the sole idea of Pericles - the famous statesman of the Classical Era. Other significant archaeological buildings include the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion.
Cape Sounio - Temple of Poseidon
Distance from Olympic Marina - Lavrion: 3 N.M
Grab your sunglasses, gear, and adventurous spirit & head to the Cape Sounio once you are in Greece. Sounio is a must-visit for so many reasons. Your time at the Cape Sounio is going to be fun-filled. As you sail to the Cape Sounio discover snorkeling, and swimming spots and have a great time with the team of skipper and host. Relax, have fun, and enjoy the scenic & breathtaking views from the luxury of your yacht and get that glowing tan you were dreaming of in the cold winter days.
As you sail through the magnificent sea at Athens Riviera the Temple of Poseidon appears at a height of almost 60 meters (200 ft). The Temple of Poseidon is an icon of the Golden Age of Athens. Standing proudly at the top of the hill, the majestic temple was built during 444–440 BC by the ascendancy of the Athenian statesman Pericles. The Parthenon in Athens was built during the same era. Poseidon is a doric temple that was built on the ruins of a temple dating from the Archaic period.
Distance from Olympic Marina - Lavrion: 3 N.M
Grab your sunglasses, gear, and adventurous spirit & head to the Cape Sounio once you are in Greece. Sounio is a must-visit for so many reasons. Your time at the Cape Sounio is going to be fun-filled. As you sail to the Cape Sounio discover snorkeling, and swimming spots and have a great time with the team of skipper and host. Relax, have fun, and enjoy the scenic & breathtaking views from the luxury of your yacht and get that glowing tan you were dreaming of in the cold winter days.
As you sail through the magnificent sea at Athens Riviera the Temple of Poseidon appears at a height of almost 60 meters (200 ft). The Temple of Poseidon is an icon of the Golden Age of Athens. Standing proudly at the top of the hill, the majestic temple was built during 444–440 BC by the ascendancy of the Athenian statesman Pericles. The Parthenon in Athens was built during the same era. Poseidon is a doric temple that was built on the ruins of a temple dating from the Archaic period.
The Ancient Temple of Aphaia - Aegina
Distance from Olympic Marina - Lavrion: 27 N.M
Distance from Alimos Marina -Athens: 13 N.M
Sail from either Olympic Marina, or Alimons Maria to reach this quaint and quiet island filled with history and many iconic historical sites. One of the architectural wonders of ancient Greece is the Temple of Aphaia located in the Saronic Gulf a few hours sailing from Athens. It is built on a 160 m peak which is located at a distance of 13 km east by road from the main port.
The temple of Aphaia is the result of Aegina’s maritime growth and prosperity during the sixth & fifth centuries. Built during c. 500 BC over the remains of a sanctuary of c. 570 BC - the temple is dedicated to the goddess Aphaia where she is worshipped exclusively. The earlier sanctuary was destroyed by fire in c.510 BC, later the remains were buried to infill for the Ancient Temple of Aphaia. Therefore, the temple of Aphaia has buried fragments from the past, and today its beautiful sculpture witnesses the magnificent progress from Archaic to the early classical techniques
Ancient theatre of Epidaurus
Distance from Olympic Marina - Lavrion: 45 N.M
Distance from Alimos Marina -Athens: 29 N.M
Just like most of the Saronic Gulf islands, Epidaurus is easily accessible from Athens. It is a perfect destination for shorter trips and ideal for less experienced sailors who prefer short distances and relatively mild winds as compared to other islands. Epidaurus is famous for the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Epidaurus has also the temple of Asclepius - the healing god. Constructed in the 4th century BC, it emerged as a religious center, a healing center, and a sanctuary of Asclepius. It was believed that the healing directly came from god. People would sleep in a large room overnight and receive therapy from god during their dreams. Large festivals and athletic competitions were taken place in Ancient Stadium and the Theatre of Epidaurus to honor the god, Asclepius.
Distance from Olympic Marina - Lavrion: 45 N.M
Distance from Alimos Marina -Athens: 29 N.M
Just like most of the Saronic Gulf islands, Epidaurus is easily accessible from Athens. It is a perfect destination for shorter trips and ideal for less experienced sailors who prefer short distances and relatively mild winds as compared to other islands. Epidaurus is famous for the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Epidaurus has also the temple of Asclepius - the healing god. Constructed in the 4th century BC, it emerged as a religious center, a healing center, and a sanctuary of Asclepius. It was believed that the healing directly came from god. People would sleep in a large room overnight and receive therapy from god during their dreams. Large festivals and athletic competitions were taken place in Ancient Stadium and the Theatre of Epidaurus to honor the god, Asclepius.
Epidaurus is located on the eastern side of the Peloponnese and is famous all over the Mediterranean Sea. The ancient theatre was made up of stone & marble. Famous for its amazing acoustics, it survives today as an icon of history.
Distance from Olympic Marina - Lavrion: 65 N.M
Distance from Alimos Marina -Athens: 87 N.M
Distance from Mykonos Marina : 5 N.M
As you sail to the sacred island of Delos, explore the natural insular archaeological site of Delos. Head to the uninhabited island of Rhenia to enjoy snorkeling and swimming. Hire a guide to explore history. Mesmerize a private beach time and lunch with drinks on the yacht. The Sacred Island of Delos is not inhabited but it is an open archaeological place.
Delos holds significance for being a historical, mythological, and archeological place. It’s the mythical birthplace of the twins ancient gods of Artemis and Apollo. The entire island of Delos is home to the sanctuaries an archeological site. This treasure trove for history buffs and mythology lovers is protected by UNESCO, and several archeological sites are renovated currently to host theatre performances. Delos had an incredible significance both as a trade center and religious sanctuary. It is one of the Pan-Hellenic sanctuaries located a few miles from the famous island of Mykonos. The French School of Archaeology started excavations 1873.
This tiny island, due to it’s historical significance every year Delos attracts visitors from all over Greece. It holds significance as an archeological site that showcases the image of a great ancient cosmopolitan Mediterranean port. The most important monuments include the Terrace of the Lions, Agora, and the Temple of Apollo.
The Ancient Theater on Milos:
Distance from Olympic Marina - Lavrion: 64 N.M
Distance from Alimos Marina - Athens: 82 N.M
Another great destination in Greece for a history interested person who is sailing in Cyclades is the Milos theater . The spectacular ancient theater of Milos island is one of the icons that makes this place worth visiting. Well preserved and perhaps the most significant archaeological site in Milo is nestled on a hill and the views over it are perfect. Take a leisure walk around the theater, and it’s entirely delightful. Sit on the marble steps, and freely roman around to get a sense of how massive the Roman theater was during its prime time.
Milos, the slice of paradise, stands luminously in the history of art. The ancient theater of Milos is on a rocky slope between the breathtaking beaches, and the quaint and uncrowded downtowns. Located near the famous catacombs it was a popular venue for cultural events and theater festivals. The theater was built during the Hellenistic period, even today it hosts cultural events. It is in the locality of the village of Tripiti, just about 2kms from Plaka, and 5 kilometers from Adamas. The ancient theater of Milos is just above the harbor of Klima.
The Sanctuary of Delphi - The Land of Apollo
Distance from Alimos Marina -Athens: 77 N.M ( via Corinth Canal)
Distance from Lefkas Marina -Ionian: 85 N.M ( via Rio Antirio Bridge)
Distance from Olympic Marina - Lavrion: 102 N.M ( via Corinth Canal)
As soon as you are sailing towards the picturesque Port of Galaxidi or Itea for reaching the sanctuary of Delphi uphill after 15-20 min drive, you can’t help but be enchanted by its eerie vibes. If you want to familiarize yourself more about the history, delve into the rich heritage of the Theater of Delphi. It is an opportunity for an enlightening day full of education input, and it will be offering nothing less. The Delphi museum is a true ambassador of ancient Greek art discovered by the French School of Archaeology in 1893. Wander around to admire unique pieces of art and the breathtaking scenery. Do not forget to experience the wealth of local cuisine at the oracle of ancient Greece..
This place has a lot to cherish and see for a cultural buff. The female deity of Earth was worshipped during the Mycenaean Period in the small settlement of Delphi. The development of the two cult sites of Apollo started at the beginning of the 8th Century B.C. Gradually, the sanctuary was extended and decorated with beautiful buildings, statues, and other kinds of offerings. The priestess Pythia was centre of attraction at the Oracle of Delphi. Pilgrims from all over the Mediterranean would visit her for advice. The oracle of Delphi was considered the most accurate of all. Next, to the sanctuary, there is an interesting museum which you must visit. Other significant archeological sites include:
● Temple of Apollo
● Treasury of the Athenians
● The Altar
● Stoa of the Athenians
● The Theatre
● the Stadium
● the Tholos
● Gymnasium
Ancient Olympia
Distance from Lefkas Marina -Ionian: 88 N.M
As you walk down a very lush road and enter this archeological site you will witness descriptive plaques, Greek works, Roman works, columns, and building outlines. Located among the natural beauty in Peloponnese, this place is a true gem and one of the ancient wonders of the world that was home to the temples of Zeus & Hera. Ancient Olympia is one of the most important sanctuaries of antiquity and it was dedicated to the father of all gods, Zeus.
In 1829, French archaeologists excavated this site. Some of the significant findings of the site are available at the Louvre Museum in Paris, which were transferred during the excavation. Next, to the site, there is an impressive museum with findings from the area. Walk into the main door and pass by the 3-D model of the grounds. As you walk into the hall you will witness the actual pediments of the temple of Zeus, and they are sure to amaze you. You will find out how the building looked on its hay day. Your eyes will smile as you walk through the museum and witness lifelike statues, pottery, & metal icons.
Olympia was also the place where the ancient Olympic Games were first held in the 7th century B.C to honor ancient gods of Greece Zeus & Hera. Ancient Olympia is located on the Peloponnese peninsula which was the famous site for all major Olympic games during classical times. From the 8th century BC to the 4th century AD, these Olympic games here held. The first-ever game in honor of Zeus was held in 776 B.C.
Mycenae & Nafplio
Distance from Alimos Marina -Athens: 77 N.M
Distance from Olympic Marina - Lavrion: 87 N.M
Sailing in Saronic Gulf and Argolis Gulf from Athenian Marinas towards the astonishing seaport town of Naflio with its medieval castle is a very nice voyage with a lot of beautiful islands in the middle. Check our Saronic Gulf itineraries for exploring the many options in between.
The town of Nafplio was for some years the capital of the First Hellenic Republic and of the Kingdom of Greece since Greek Revolution in 1821. There are numerous of impressive buildings to see , as well as the medieval fortress was built by the Venetians during their second occupation of the area (1686–1715)
With a 15-20 min drive from Naflio , you can reach Mycenae archeological site. Travel back in time, visit this archaeological site and explore the ruins of the Mycenae. Hiring a local guide will help to explore the impressive ruins more easily. The site of Mycenae is considered one of the oldest ancient sites in Greece and witnessed the development of the Mycenaean civilization. During the Trojan War, Mycenae was the home of the ruler of the Greeks. Being the town of the legendary king Agamemnon, this place holds incredible historic significance. Mycenaean has a military-centered society that was surrounded by gigantic walls, and therefore it has limited interaction with other cultures.
The Mycenaean civilization is named after the exploration of the site of Mycenae. Its strategic location enables it to control the trade and commerce between the mainland and Aegean. Between 1350-1200 BC. Mycenae grew as the most powerful and richest center of Bronze Age Greece.
When returning, stay at the port in Nafplio to soak up the lovely and lively atmosphere of the charming seaport town of Nafplio.
The Minoan Palace of Knossos
Suggested charter commencement : Crete or Monemvasia or Kalamata Marina
Sail around the Crete to experience life in the true sense! You will have the best days at Knossos followed by sheer fun at the waterpark & end up eating local delicatessens for dinner. Make sure you reach the destination ahead of time to avoid the heat and avoid crowds. Grab some cold water to avoid the heat, and walk along the palace to avoid the herd of people. Unlike all ruins, this archaeological site has meatier buildings, vibrant colors, and whole structures. The restoration of the site will help you easily envision how this place looked like during its heyday.
One of the well-preserved palaces of the Minoan Civilization, the Minoan Palace of Knossos flourished in Greece from 2,700 to 1,450 BC. Knossos, known for the Minoan Palace of Knossos was the seat of the legendary King Minos and was also a hub for legends. Today it is distinguished as a place of legends, history, and Crete’s most extensive archaeological site.
Minoan started flourishing at about 2,000 BC. The construction of impressive palaces, such as Knossos, Lato, Zakros, Phaestos, resulted in commercial, political, social prosperity, and trade with the rest of the Aegean. It even started establishing colonies, like Akrotiri in Santorini. Minos Kalokairinos discovered the Minoan Palace in 1878 and its restoration started in 1900. The exploration of the Minoan provided a wealth of knowledge of the Minoan Civilization to historians and culture lovers.
One of the well-preserved palaces of the Minoan Civilization, the Minoan Palace of Knossos flourished in Greece from 2,700 to 1,450 BC. Knossos, known for the Minoan Palace of Knossos was the seat of the legendary King Minos and was also a hub for legends. Today it is distinguished as a place of legends, history, and Crete’s most extensive archaeological site.
Minoan started flourishing at about 2,000 BC. The construction of impressive palaces, such as Knossos, Lato, Zakros, Phaestos, resulted in commercial, political, social prosperity, and trade with the rest of the Aegean. It even started establishing colonies, like Akrotiri in Santorini. Minos Kalokairinos discovered the Minoan Palace in 1878 and its restoration started in 1900. The exploration of the Minoan provided a wealth of knowledge of the Minoan Civilization to historians and culture lovers.
Impressive ruins, rich history, archaeological sites, your sailing journey to Greece will help you cherish memories for life. Join us on our sailing trip to Greece to explore monuments, castles, sites and learn why you must book your next yachting sailing journey to Greece.
