Thermopylae (meaning Hot springs or pillars) is one of the most famous battlefields in the western world. Here the Greeks lost but such a noble sacrifice as to go down in the annals of Western History. Almost every school child has heard the famous and thrilling story of sacrifice, honor and heroism epitomized by King Leonidas and his 300 Spartans warriors and to a lesser extent their 700 Thespian allies. All of whom knowingly sacrificed their lives, while holding the pass and fighting back the Persians in their unsuccessful attempt to invade-enslave Greece in 480 BC.
If you and your party of intrepid adventurers, like the Persians, are heading south from central Greece you have to pass through the hot spring pillars whether you want to or not so even though its perhaps not worth considering as a destination in its self if you happen to be passing through, definitely pull over and have a long look!
Just off the side of the road the authorities have, with American funding erected a monument to the battle and several explanatory signs which may or may not be 100% accurate as to numbers of troops on the Persian side. Very helpful never-the-less and well worth 15 minutes of your time to peruse.
Hire a driver or Rent a car and combine Thermopylae with Thebes or Mt. Pillion or any other excursion you can think of! Near by are Ancient Gla and Battlefield of Chaironeia. You'll enjoy the ride and the many magnificent views.