Posted on 12 September 2020

News that seven Greek islands have been removed from the quarantine exemption list have dismayed many Britons - particularly those who have had to rush back home to avoid having to self-isolate for 14 days. The seven islands are Lesvos (Lesbos), Tinos, Serifos, Mykonos, Crete, Santorini and Zakynthos.

These are seven of the most popular Greek islands, so for many holidaymakers, Greece may seem like a less attractive place for a break.

But mainland Greece is still on the exemption list - and offers reliably hot weather, as well plenty of history and great beaches.

Here are some of the top attractions on the mainland.

Acropolis

Wherever you stand in Athens, you'll probably be able to see the Acropolis and the mighty Parthenon - the foremost ancient site in the Western world. It is all that remains of the once-great city of Pericles, a lavish collection of majestic coloured buildings and huge statues of bronze and marble. Seeing the Acropolis up-close while in Athens is a must.

Acropolis Museum, Athens

Athens' most-visited attraction is a spacious, airy museum of glass and steel, and showcases a vast array of Acropolis finds. Among the must-sees is the 6th-century-BC statue of  Moschophoros (a man carrying a calf on his shoulders); the Parthenon marbles; and the female statues that once held up the Erechtheion - the Caryatids.

Delphi

The awe-inspiring Delphi is a UNESCO World Heritage site, located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus - around 180km from Athens. Comprising ruined temples, an amphitheatre and a stadium, this sacred site was built between the 8th century BC and the 2nd century AD.

Metéora Monasteries

The monasteries of Metéora are perched on a unique set of rocky outcrops on the Thessaly Plain. Another UNESCO World Heritage site, you'll need to ascend several flights of steps in order to visit any of the six monasteries that are open to the public.

Napfilo

Popular with Athenian day-trippers, Napfilo is arguably one of the most beautiful cities in Greece, and was once the capital. Located on the eastern coast of the Peloponnese peninsula, the city is filled with Neoclassical mansions, ancient churches - and is guarded by the mighty Palamidi Fortress. Ancient Corinth, Tiryns and Epidaurus Theater are close by.

Thessaloniki (Salonica)

Thessaloniki is Greece's second biggest city and is located in the country's north, overlooking the Aegean Sea. Don't miss the UNESCO-listed Byzantine churches, or the various Roman sites - including the Triumphal Arch of Galerius and the 4th-century Rotunda.

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