16 Best Day Trips from Athens in 2023

Oh Athens, how we love you. We have visited town thrice, nevertheless it wasn’t till our most up-to-date journey that we truly hung out actually immersing in the vitality of this vibrant capital of Greece. While many individuals instantly jet off to the Greek Islands there are many thrilling adventures that may be performed on a day journey. From unbelievable archaeological websites to beautiful seashores, Athens shouldn’t be solely a vacation spot in itself but additionally a launchpad for quite a few thrilling day journeys. From the islands off the Athenian Riviera to historic websites steeped in fantasy and historical past, let’s embark on a journey to discover one of the best day journeys you may make from Athens.

Top Day Trips from Athens

We have pushed in Greece many instances and it is extremely simple to navigate. We counsel getting a rental automotive on your keep in Athens as they’re extra reasonably priced than different European locations. You can examine automotive rental costs right here.

If you aren’t comfy driving, now we have recommended the most well-liked day journeys from Athens with hyperlinks that can assist you plan your journey.

1. Delphi

Delphi is only a two-hour drive from Athens and is a necessary vacation spot for historical past and archaeology lovers. This unbelievable archaeological website is a UNESCO World Heritage housing the Sanctuary of Apollo. Take a guided tour to see the stays of the Temple of Apollo, the traditional theater, and the stadium. Be positive to take a look at the Athenian Treasury and the Polygonal Wall with its inscriptions.

You will even wish to cease by the Delphi Archaeological Museum to be taught extra about Greek historical past. Here, you may view its assortment of artifacts discovered in the traditional ruins. One of essentially the most iconic items is the bronze Charioteer of Delphi, one of many best-known sculptures surviving from Ancient Greece and take a stroll alongside the Sacred Way which was the primary route via the Sanctuary of Apollo, used in processions to the temple. When you’re completed at these fascinating ruins, make your technique to the trendy city of Delphi for lunch at considered one of its many eating places, outlets, and cafes.

2. Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon

Cape Sounion is a favourite getaway for each locals and vacationers. Including us! Just 60 minutes from downtown Athens, Cape Sounion is often known as the Athens Riviera. There are seashores and resorts making for a unbelievable day journey from Athens, or you may guide a weekend getaway.

The predominant attraction right here is essentially the most lovely setting for archaeological ruins which you could get. The Iconic Temple of Poseidon sits excessive on a seacliff providing unbelievable vistas of Cape Sounion. Begin your go to by exploring the Doric columns of this Fifth-century BC edifice, and don’t overlook to hunt out Lord Byron’s well-known graffiti etched into one of many temple’s remaining pillars.

The Athens Riviera offers a style of Greek Island Life with out having to go away the mainland. Beaches like Sounio Beach and Legrena Beach are only a brief drive from the temple. Before leaving, be sure to witness probably the most celebrated sunsets in Greece from the point of view close to the temple of Poseidon. For meals lovers, there are seaside tavernas shut by, providing scrumptious Greek delicacies with a unbelievable sea view.

3. Hydra Island

Only a two-hour ferry experience from Athens, Hydra Island is the right day journey from Athens for these looking for a style of the Greek Islands. No motorized automobiles are allowed on Hydra making for a quiet retreat from town. It is thought for its picturesque harbor and slim, cobbled streets lined with boutiques, artwork galleries, and native eateries.

Don’t miss the prospect to go to the Historical Archives Museum and the Ecclesiastical and Byzantine Museum to be taught extra about Hydra’s wealthy previous.

For outside lovers, there are mountain climbing trails that supply lovely views of the ocean. The path from Hydra city to the Monastery of Prophet Elias is a specific favourite. Beach lovers can get pleasure from island life by heading to both Vlychos or Kaminia.

At the tip of the day, loosen up at a waterfront cafe, having fun with native delicacies as boats bob in the harbor. You don’t have to move again to the Greek capital you may guide an evening on the island to increase your keep. Book an evening on the Four Seasons Hydra for an expensive keep. Check opinions on TripAdvisor

4. Poros Island

Poros is a part of the Saronic islands that are simply accessible by a fast ferry experience from Athens. It presents a style of island life with a extra native really feel than the favored vacationer locations of Greece.

A go to to the Archaeological Museum of Poros is a should. It homes finds from the sanctuary of Poseidon at Kalavria. Explore the Lemon Forest, a aromatic grove with greater than 30,000 lemon and orange timber. Be positive to go to the Clock Tower, the island’s most well-known landmark, for panoramic views of Poros and the encompassing sea.

If you’re a seaside lover, spend a while at Love Bay or Askeli Beach, each recognized for his or her clear waters. Wrap up your day by having fun with a meal at one of many many seaside taverns.

5. Corinth Canal

The Corinth Canal is an engineering marvel linking the Aegean and Ionian seas. This synthetic canal is a powerful website slicing via the slim isthmus that connects the Gulf of Corinth in the Ionian Sea with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea. This 4-mile-long canal was constructed between 1882 and 1893 and separates the Peloponnese Peninsula from the mainland.

You can guide a day journey from Athens to see views of the Corinth Canal and go to Ancient Corinth to see the place St. Paul lived and its historic Agora, and Apollo’s Temple. You will even go to the traditional port of Kechreai.

Visit the submersible bridge at Isthmia, considered one of solely two in Europe. For adrenaline junkies, bungee leaping from the canal’s bridge is an choice.

Ancient Corinth is an interesting archaeological website, the place you’ll discover the Temple of Apollo and the Bema, the place St. Paul spoke to the Corinthians. You also can go to the Archaeological Museum of Corinth to get your fill of historic Greek historical past.

On your means again to Athens, make a cease on the Acrocorinth, the acropolis of historic Corinth, a monolithic rock overseeing the traditional metropolis.

6. Meteora

Visiting Meteora must be on the prime of everybody’s Greek bucket checklist. Meteora is a UNESCO World Heritage website positioned 4 hours from Athens. The space is famed for its towering rock formations and the centuries-old monasteries perched precariously upon the excessive monoliths.

If you might have a automotive, arrive early in the morning to view the monasteries by yourself time forward of the crowds. You will need no less than one full day right here to see the spectacular monasteries such because the Great Meteoron Monastery, Varlaam Monastery, and Rousanou Monastery. Read extra: Monasteries of Meteora, Greece – Magic Monoliths in Photos

We extremely advocate taking a stroll via the quite a few mountain climbing trails snaking across the rock formations, providing panoramic views of the panorama away from the crowds. Better but, guide one of many guided excursions provided to be taught extra in regards to the ruins. We took this mountain climbing tour from Kalabaka that follows the historic paths of the monks.

You might wish to contemplate taking a guided tour to get insights into the historical past and significance of the world. Before leaving, go to the native city of Kalabaka to strive native cuisines. We advocate spending a few nights in Meteora and we stayed at The Divani Meteora Hotel which was positioned proper in the guts of the traditional website.

This 4-day Classic Tour permits you to see lots of the greatest day journeys from Athens in one handy tour. You’ll discover one of the best of Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi & Meteora.

7. Mycenae and Epidaurus

Mycenae and Epidaurus supply a deep dive into Greek historical past to the time of King Agamemnon and the Trojan War. Visit Mycenae, a UNESCO World Heritage that was the middle of the Mycenaean civilization which dates again to 2 hundred BC.

Here you’ll discover the traditional temples together with the well-known Lion’s Gate, Royal Tombs, The Tomb of Agamemnon, and the Archaeological Museum. The Cyclopean Walls which had been named for his or her large measurement, are a must-see.

Next, head to Epidaurus to go to the traditional theatre, devoted to the Greek God of Medicine Asclepius, well-known for its distinctive acoustics and symmetrical building. Don’t miss the Sanctuary of Asklepios, an essential therapeutic middle in the traditional world, and its historic theatre.

The theater at Epidaurus is among the best-preserved theaters of historic Greece and its performances nonetheless happen as we speak. Imagine your self dwelling in historic instances watching the likes of Homer or Greek Mythology carried out in this spectacular archeological website.

From May to October probably the most well-known cultural occasions takes place right here and on the Acropolis in Athens. This competition showcases music and artists and has attracted the likes of Luciano Pavarotti and Frank Sinatra. The 2023 lineup will see eclectic artists corresponding to Herbie Hancock, Bill Burr, and the Opera de Paris.

This extremely rated tour is a full-day guided day journey from Athens that touts itself as carbon impartial. Over the subsequent 10 hours, you’ll go to the Corinth Canal, Mycenae, and Epidauraus in addition to Nafplio (Nauplia), the previous capital of Greece.

8. Nafplio

Nafplio, the primary capital of contemporary Greece, combines historical past, structure, and beautiful sea views. Visit the Palamidi Fortress and benefit from the panoramic view of town and the Argolic Gulf. Stroll across the previous city with its Venetian homes and neoclassical mansions, stopping at Syntagma Square to discover the Archaeological Museum.

Take a ship experience to Bourtzi, a Venetian fortress on an island in the center of town’s harbor. Lastly, get pleasure from native dishes at a seaside restaurant and discover town’s vibrant nightlife.

Combine a few of the greatest day journeys from Athens with this extremely rated guided tour. Your tour information is a certified historian who will take you to the Corinth Canal, Palamidi Castle, the Acropolis of Nafplio, and the well-known Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus. You’ll even have a cease at Karathonas Beach for a dip in the Aegean Sea.

9. Spetses Island

Spetses is among the most picturesque Saronic islands that could be a two-hour-long journey by ferry from Athens. This lovely island boasts a wealthy maritime historical past and stylish structure.

Discover the island’s historical past on the Museum of Spetses and the House of Bouboulina, a museum devoted to the feminine admiral who performed a big position in the 1821 War of Independence. The Old Harbor space, with its previous mansions and the grand Poseidonion Hotel, is nicely price a go to.

Rent a motorbike or a horse-drawn carriage to discover the city or hop on a water taxi to go to a few of the island’s lovely seashores like Agia Marina and Agioi Anargyroi. Remember to pattern native delicacies at one of many island’s quite a few seafood eating places or taverns.

This e-bike biking tour is a half-day tour that takes you round the primary sights of the small island to see the previous harbor and be taught in regards to the island’s historical past.

10. Aegina Island

Aegina is an idyllic island recognized for its pistachio orchards, historic ruins, and white stone homes. Start your journey by visiting the Temple of Aphaia, an historic architectural masterpiece that types a sacred triangle with the Parthenon and the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion.

Explore the charming city with its conventional homes, and don’t miss the native market the place you should buy the well-known Aegina pistachios. For seaside fanatics, Marathonas, Agia Marina, and Perdika are all glorious decisions. If you might have time, a go to to the tiny island of Moni, a nature reserve filled with peacocks and deer, is extremely really useful.

You also can guide a day cruise to Aegina. This full day boat tour permits you to uncover the Saronic Sea on a basic picket sailboat. Enjoy views of the Saronic Gulf as you sip cocktails and luxuriate in snacks en path to the islands of Agistri and Aegina. Enjoy the seashores and take an non-compulsory bike tour. You’ll even have stops at Moni or Nisis Metopi.

11. Lake Vouliagmeni

Just a brief drive from town middle, Lake Vouliagmeni is a shocking pure lake with therapeutic properties. Swim in the nice and cozy, mineral-rich waters, which keep a relentless temperature year-round. For the adventurous, discover the lake’s underwater cave community, dwelling to the elusive Lutra, a small underwater sea creature.

After stress-free by the lake, go to the close by Vouliagmeni city, recognized for its upscale eating places and delightful seashores. Try some native delicacies or take a stroll alongside the marina.

Day excursions could be booked from Athens to see Lake Vouliagmeni mixed with the Athens Riviera. This extremely rated personal tour takes you by van to see Lake Vouliagmeni, the historic city of Lavrio, and the Temple of Poseidon.

12. Mystras

Journey to Mystras, a UNESCO World Heritage Site referred to as the ‘Wonder of Morea.’ Once a thriving Byzantine metropolis, as we speak, it’s an archaeological treasure. Start your day by exploring the Palace of Despots, town’s most outstanding monument. Then, go to the Peribleptos Monastery to admire the best-preserved frescoes in Mystras.

Do not miss the Pantanassa Monastery. It is the one inhabited a part of the location that’s truly dwelling to a small group of nuns. Make positive to hike as much as the Castle on prime of the hill for a panoramic view of the encompassing landscapes.

Wrap up your go to by exploring the Museum of Mystras, the place you’ll uncover a group of artifacts that supply insights into town’s previous.

This tour takes you to Mystras and Ancient Sparta skip the bus experience and luxuriate in an air-conditioned van to see Sparta, Mystras, and the Corinth Canal.

13. Olympia

Who wouldn’t wish to see the birthplace of the Olympic Games? Begin by exploring the archaeological website, which incorporates the Temple of Zeus, as soon as dwelling to one of many Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Statue of Zeus. The Temple of Hera, the traditional Olympic Stadium, and the Palaestra are additionally must-sees.

Extend your data on the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, which hosts a unbelievable assortment of artifacts from the location. Don’t overlook to go to the Museum of the History of the Ancient Olympic Games to study this important side of Greek tradition.

14. Mount Parnitha National Park

Escape the hustle and bustle of metropolis life with a visit to Mount Parnitha National Park, an oasis of greenery on Athens’ doorstep. For mountain climbing fanatics, there are quite a few trails weaving via the park, providing panoramic views over Athens. As you discover, hold an eye fixed out for the varied wildlife, together with purple deer, foxes, and quite a lot of chicken species.

Visit the Mpafi Refuge, the place you may relaxation, have a meal, and even spend the evening. If you’re a fan of thriller and historical past, discover the park’s deserted royal summer season residences and the Tatoi Palace, including a contact of human historical past to the pure grandeur.

15. Nemea

Nemea is a paradise for wine lovers. Known for its purple wine manufacturing, particularly the Agiorgitiko grape, visiting the native wineries and vineyards must be on the prime of your to-do checklist. Take a wine-tasting tour, go to the cellars, and be taught in regards to the area’s wine-making course of.

In addition to wine, Nemea is wealthy in historical past. Explore the Archaeological Site of Nemea, which incorporates the traditional stadium the place the Nemean Games had been held, and the Temple of Zeus. Be positive to go to the Archaeological Museum of Nemea to additional delve into the area’s fascinating previous.

Book a guided tour to the Vineyards of Nemea. This wine tour takes you to one of many largest vineyards in Greece the place you’ll style native wines at two separate vineyards and Visit Ancient Nemea and see the 4th-century-B.C. stadium

16. Marathon

Revisit historic historical past when visiting Marathon. Marathon is synonymous with long-distance races as a result of legendary run of Pheidippides from the battlefield to Athens.

Start your go to on the Marathon Tomb, a burial mound for the troopers who fought in the Battle of Marathon. The close by Archaeological Museum of Marathon presents additional insights into the world’s historical past.

Nature lovers ought to go to Schinias National Park, dwelling to the gorgeous Schinias Beach and a coastal pine forest. If time permits, make a visit to the Marathon Dam, a powerful feat of engineering, and luxuriate in a picnic on the Lake Marathon Reservoir.

Where Should I Go on a Day Trip from Athens?

There are quite a few Athens day journeys which might be simply accessible. Some glorious day journey locations embody the historic website of Delphi, Cape Sounion with the awe-inspiring Temple of Poseidon, Hydra Island, or Poros Island.

Other day journeys from Athens embody the engineering marvel of the Corinth Canal, the majestic panorama of Meteora, the historic websites of Mycenae and Epidaurus, the elegant metropolis of Nafplio, the maritime city of Spetses Island, the idyllic Aegina Island, the therapeutic Lake Vouliagmeni, the traditional metropolis of Mystras, the Olympic birthplace of Olympia, the inexperienced oasis of Parnitha National Park, the wine paradise of Nemea, and the legendary city of Marathon.

What Islands Around Athens are Day Trips?

Several islands round Athens are appropriate for day journeys, providing quite a lot of experiences. Some of the highest islands for day journeys embody Hydra, recognized for its car-free cobblestone streets and relaxed ambiance, Poros with its mix of historic websites and delightful seashores, Spetses which boasts a wealthy maritime historical past and beautiful structure, and Aegina, well-known for its pistachio orchards and historic ruins.

Can you Do Day Trips to Islands from Athens?

Doing day journeys to islands from Athens is a well-liked selection for a lot of guests. The three closest islands appropriate for a day journey are Aegina, Hydra, and Poros. These islands are simply accessible by ferry, making them good for fast getaways from the hustle and bustle of Athens.

What are the Three Closest Islands to Athens Me

The three closest islands appropriate for a day journey are Aegina, Hydra, and Poros.

In conclusion

A go to to Athens is among the most memorable holidays we’ve ever taken. The Cradle of Western Civilization, Athens is stuffed with essential ruins that helped to form the world as we all know it.