easy day trips from athens

9 of the best day trips from Athens

Feb 10, 2024 • 7 min read

From Nafplio to Hydra, here are the best day trips from Athens © margouillat photo/ Shutterstock

A world-class city, Athens is crammed with attractions and entertainment that can fill weeks of any visitor's time.

But a number of other outstanding destinations are located within easy reach of the Greek capital – whether you travel by public transportation , by boat or with your own wheels. From ancient ruins to island beaches, these day trips from Athens are well worth the journey.

1. Visit the picturesque former capital, Nafplio

Travel time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Nafplio , the first capital of modern Greece, is one of the prettiest towns in the country, with splendid Venetian and neoclassical architecture and fortresses like the hilltop Palamidi (a famous 999-step climb) or Bourtzi (a small fortified islet in the harbor). Plenty of elegant boutique hotels, tasteful shops and small restaurants hidden in narrow alleys make Nafplio a hugely popular destination for a day hop or a longer stay.

Further south is the posh resort of Porto Heli, where Greek and international jet-setters own luxurious villas and mansions. The region also has some agreeable sandy beaches and numerous local wineries, many open to the public.

How to get to Nafplio from Athens: By car, the journey is around one hour and 45 minutes. The intercity bus from Athens Kifissos station to Nafplio takes two hours and 10 minutes.

Colorful wooden boats docked in a small island harbor

2. Aegina is the perfect Greek island getaway

Travel time: 40 minutes / 1 hour 15 minutes

A trip to Aegina is the quickest way to find yourself on an island if you're staying in Athens. The Saronic Gulf island boasts a perfect combination of important ancient ruins, attractive sandy beaches, charming neoclassical architecture and local delicacies like the internationally renowned local pistachio variety.

Outside the picturesque Aegina Town, the Temple of Aphaia , which is among the country's top ancient sites, and the villages of Agia Marina and Perdika are also worth a visit. The huge Orthodox church of Agios Nektarios is a popular pilgrimage destination among both Greek and foreign visitors. Avoid the summer weekends if you can, as the island gets packed with Athenians escaping the city heat.

How to get to Aegina from Athens: Take the ferry (one hour and 15 minutes) or the hydrofoil (40 minutes) from the harbor of Piraeus . Departures are frequent, and there's no need to book in advance.

The well preserved remains of an ancient stone theatre on a mountainside; there is a lovely view down into a green valley below, surrounded by further mountain peaks.

3. Soak up the mythology at Delphi

Travel time: 3 hours

It might be on the long side for a day trip, but spending time in beautiful Delphi is worth the journey. Myths, history and spectacular mountains combine here – in Greek mythology, the two eagles released by Zeus met there, determining the Navel (or center) of the World. The Sanctuary of Apollo , built in the 7th century BCE, was a revered ancient oracle and home to Pythia, the priestess who mumbled her notoriously ambiguous answers on important or everyday matters to visitors from every walk of life.

A stadium high on the hill, an ancient theater and Tholos (a circular temple, probably the most photographed landmark of the site), together with a small but significant museum , keep attracting modern-day crowds. The idyllic clifftop village on the slopes of Mt Parnassos, overlooking the endless olive groves that surround the sanctuary, is buzzing with taverns and souvenir shops catering to day trippers.

How to get to Delphi from Athens: Take the KTEL intercity bus from Athens Liosion station to Delphi. Travel time is around three hours.

4. Walk in the footsteps of ancients in Corinthia

Travel time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Within the modern village of Corinthia loom the extensive yet compact ruins of this ancient (mostly Roman) city. Home to legendary Jason of the Argonauts, stealer of the Golden Fleece, the streets of Ancient Corinth were once trodden by the likes of Pausanias, Roman travelers, and St Paul, who taught the gospel of Christ here.

Follow in their footsteps by visiting the Temple of Apollo, the Peribolos of Apollo, the ancient theater and other highlights. The excellent on-site museum puts everything into context.

How to get to Ancient Corinth from Athens: Intercity buses depart hourly from Athens Kifissos station, arriving at the Korinthos bus station in Corinth City, taking about one hour. From here, buses go to Ancient Corinth (20 minutes).

A hiker sits at the top of a mountain gazing out over the view of hills below

5. Hit the hiking trails of Mt Parnitha National Park

Travel time: 1 hour

Mt Parnitha, about 25km (15.5 miles) north of Athens, comprises a number of smaller peaks, the highest of which is Karavola (1413m/4636ft), tall enough to get snow in winter. There are many caves and much wildlife, including red deer, and the park is crisscrossed by hiking trails, with two large, full-featured hiking lodges. The area is popular for mountain biking as well.

The easiest way to explore is on the path (about a 45-minute walk) through Tatoi, the 40-sq-km (15-sq-mile) grounds of the former summer palace (closed); follow Tatoi Rd out of Varibobi and look for a small trail sign on the right.

How to get to Mt Parnitha National Park from Athens: Take the Metro's Green Line (Line 1) north to Nea Ionia, then take bus 724 to Thrakomakedónes. You can also continue on bus 724 to the Parnitha Funitel, which takes visitors to the top of the mountain.

The stones of an ancient settlement, surrounded in green grass

6. Imagine the sound of Homer at the World Heritage-listed Mycenae

Travel time: 1 hour 45 minutes

On a hilltop backed by powerful mountains stand the somber and mighty ruins of Ancient Mycenae, home of the legendary Agamemnon. For four centuries in the 2nd millennium BCE, this kingdom was the most powerful in Greece, holding sway over the Argolid and influencing other Mycenaean cities.

World Heritage–listed Mycenae is synonymous with the names Homer and Schliemann. In the 9th century BCE, Homer told in his epic poems, The Iliad and The Odyssey , of "well-built Mycenae, rich in gold." These poems were, until the 19th century, regarded as no more than gripping and beautiful legends. But in the 1870s, the amateur archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann (1822–90), despite derision from professionals, struck gold, first at Troy and then at Mycenae.

Before exploring the archaeological site, head into the Ancient Mycenae Museum for context.

How to get to Ancient Mycenae from Athens: Daily KTEL intercity buses depart from Athens to Fichti, the nearest town to Ancient Mycenae, on the Nafplio route.

Fishing boats in the harbour at Hydra, with the town's houses huddled on a hillside behind them.

7. Wander the car-free island of Hydra

Travel time: Almost 2 hours

Gorgeous Hydra is a rocky island with a rich history and spectacular, well-preserved stone mansions that once belonged to great naval families and captains of the Greek Revolution. The town is built on the hillside around a stunning harbor; it has a tranquil allure like no other Greek island, as it's completely car-free. Numerous small museums, art galleries and boutique hotels, together with the ever-present yachts docked in the harbor, contribute to its classy aura and more than make up for the lack of beaches.

How to get to Hydra from Athens: Hydrofoils from the harbor of Piraeus take from one hour and 40 minutes to two hours. Buy tickets online in advance.

8. Escape to the seaside restaurants of Halkida

Travel time: 30 minutes

Built on the channel that separates the island of Evia from the mainland, and famous for the six-hourly change in the direction of the water's flow, Halkida can't claim the title of tourist magnet by any means. Nevertheless, it's a pleasant seaside town worth visiting to enjoy a relaxing break from a hectic city-sightseeing itinerary and for a taste of Greek small-town life. There are also plenty of good, clean beaches nearby, as well as countless seaside restaurants where you'll enjoy extremely fresh seafood, with far more variety than you'll see in Athens.

How to get to Halkida from Athens: Halkida is an hour's drive from Athens via the main motorway to Thessaloniki. It's also accessible by intercity bus from Athens terminal station or by train from Athens' central station.

Columned ruins right on the edge of the sea as the sun sets in the distance

9. Watch the sunset at Cape Sounion

Travel time: 2 hours (Cape Sounion), 45 minutes (Marathon)

You can easily spend a whole day at either of these close-by destinations, but if your schedule is tight, they both make perfect half-day trips. Cape Sounion, at the southernmost tip of Attica, is where the splendid Temple of Poseidon is located – this is one of the best spots around Athens to savor a gorgeous sunset. It can be combined with lunch or dinner at one of the many fish taverns in the nearby working-class town of Lavrio.

Northeast of Athens, Marathon is the site of one of the greatest battles in history and the place where the modern Athens Marathon commences, following the steps of Pheidippides, the legendary ancient courier who first ran the glorious route. The archaeological museum , the tomb of Athenians fallen in the battle, and the lake with its dam are the main attractions of the area.

How to get to Cape Sounion or Marathon from Athens: Cape Sounion is a two-hour bus ride from Athens, and Marathon is a 45-minute drive. Consider taking a taxi if you'd prefer not to drive yourself.

This article was first published Jul 2, 2019 and updated Feb 10, 2024.

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17 Spectacular Day Trips from Athens, Greece

If you’re looking for the best day trips from Athens so you can pick a few for your trip, this guide is for you! I cover seventeen places you can go, which ones can easily be combined as day tours from Athens, and which ones are my personal favorites!

In the end, there are more resources to help you plan your trip to Athens.

Pin this post for your trip to Greece!

>> Read Next: Athens Instagram Inspiration: 15 Instagrammable Places in Athens <<

Where to Stay in Athens

If this is your first trip to Athens, figuring out where to stay in the city can be a bit intimidating. Because of the location of the Acropolis, it really matters which neighborhood you choose to stay in, especially if you’re looking for Acropolis views, easy access to the metro, and good value for your money.

For our hotel recommendations, Generally, budget means hostel beds for around $30 a night and singles/doubles for around $50, mid-range is from about $50-100 per night, and luxury will cost over $100 per night.

However, note that availability, time of year, and how much in advance you book will play a role in how much accommodations cost in Athens.

Budget: If you want a hostel dorm bed in the heart of Psyri, check out the Acropolis Hostel. This basic-yet-clean hostel boasts what very few in the world can: Acropolis views from its communal terrace.

You’ll enjoy having access to an elevator (no lugging your bag all the way up to your room), and you can enjoy the lively neighborhood atmosphere and come home when you want since the hostel has no curfew.

Check out reviews, pictures, prices, and availability here .

Mid-Range: For my most recent trip to Athens, we stayed in a couple of different places, but my favorite was the Ares Athens Hotel off of Omonia Square.

I loved its location, close to Omonia station, across the street from a Coffee Island (my personal version of Heaven), and with views of Mount Lycabettus. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and each room has a private terrace.

Luxury: If you are a traveler who loves having stunning hotel views, book a stay at A for Athens, a boutique hotel in Psyri that has what is considered by many to be the best rooftop bar in the city.

You can also enjoy Acropolis views from the panoramic terrace during breakfast, You can even get amazing Acropolis and Parthenon views from some of the rooms. This hotel is basically Instagram crack.

Check out prices, reviews, photos, and availability here.

Don’t see a hotel that’s the right pick for you? Check out our complete Athens Neighborhood and Hotel Guide.

Top 5 Athens Day Trips

I cover the entire list below with tour recommendations, etc. But here are my top five picks including many of the most popular day trips from Athens:

Poros, Hydra, & Aegina
Mycenae & Epidaurus
Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion

Day Trips from Athens: The Complete List

I’m obsessed with Athens, and I think people come here and leave too quickly. They use it as a base, but don’t dig deep into what makes the city so special.

If you only have one or two days in the city, stay and explore! That being said, if you’ll be spending four days or more in Athens (or even a month like I did on my first trip) then you should take advantage of the amazing Athens day trips that are available!

Tourism in Athens is very developed, so you can combine many of these locations into single-day trips. However, if you want to DIY your day trips from Athens, then many of these would need to be done on their own because public transit will eat up so much of your time.

Another option is to rent a car and drive to some of these on your own. If you do that, just make sure you know where you’ll be parking in Athens (or return your car at the end of the day). Both driving and parking in Athens are nuts!

I listed this as my favorite day trip from Athens for a few reasons. First, the scenery from the top of the hill, looking over the temple and the mountains took my breath away.

Another reason is that the ancient Greeks thought that Delphi was the center of the world, so if you love ancient Greek history (like me) then there are tons to geek out on.

Major sites you’ll want to see while you’re in Delphi include the Temple of Apollo, the Athenian Treasury, and the Temple of Athena Proinaia. You also want to set aside time to walk up the hill to the stadium.

You can technically visit Delphi from Athens via public transportation, but I found it overwhelming.

Even after spending a month in Athens, I thought it would be likely that I would miss the connecting bus, so I went on a guided Delphi Day Trip from Athens . This tour combined a stop in the mountain village of Arachova on Mount Parnassus.

What I loved about the guided tour was the ease of not worrying about missing the connecting bus and having a tour guide who could explain everything we were seeing in detail.

Greek tour guides tend to have an insane amount of knowledge because they have to undergo intense training.

What I wished was different about the bus tour was I wish we would have had more time at the site because I ended up missing the museum to spend more time at the stadium.

However, I’m not sure this would have been better with public transportation because the bus times when I was going were pretty inconvenient.

If you only have one day to take a day trip from Athens, Delphi is a great option.

»» Book a Delphi tour or check tour reviews. ««

Meteora is not an easy day trip from Athens, but once you’re here you see why the long journey was worth it. To get here, you take a five-hour train ride from Athens each way, leaving you just a few hours to explore the monasteries.

However, if you go on a guided tour like I did, like the Meteora Full-Day Trip from Athens by Train , then you’ll get picked up at the train station and taken straight to the monasteries.

There are six monasteries here that you can visit. However, they are very far from the train station, so you’ll be thankful for the bus that picks you up to take you to the ones that are open that day (they have different days when they are closed, but there are always a few open).

My favorite parts of visiting Meteora besides the monasteries were seeing the Game of Thrones and James Bond scenery and driving through the stunning landscape.

We also think that if you’re looking for a great winter day trip from Athens, Meteora is an excellent choice because the monasteries look amazing covered in snow. You can see photos of what Meteora in winter is like in 25 Snowy Photos of Meteora in Winter.

»» Book a Meteora tour or check tour reviews. ««

Read: Delphi or Meteora: Which Historic Greek Site is Right for You?

Cape Sounion

The Temple of Poseidon on Cape Sounion is a beautiful ancient Greek temple set beside the sea. It’s also famous because Lord Byron carved his name into the temple when he visited in the nineteenth century.

Though we don’t encourage you to follow suit, it is so cool to see the physical embodiment of the connection between modern literary history and ancient Greek history. Basically, Lord Byron was a temple fanboy, and we dig it.

I visited Cape Sounion as a day trip from Athens on a guided Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounion Tour . The nice thing is this tour doesn’t take a full day since it is much closer than some of the other sites on this list.

Another bonus is that the bus stops at a great photography spot before the actual Temple before continuing to the site.

If you want to visit on your own, you can also take a public bus or go on the Athens Hop-on-Hop-off Bus & Cape Sounion Sunset Combo Tour . I wasn’t at Cape Sounion at night, but the pictures look spectacular.

Mycenae

If you love the Illiad and the Odyssey, or if you just love ancient Greek archaeology, then you should come and visit Mycenae. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Tiryns. According to UNESCO :

The archaeological sites of Mycenae and Tiryns are the imposing ruins of the two greatest cities of the Mycenaean civilization, which dominated the eastern Mediterranean world from the 15th to the 12th century B.C. and played a vital role in the development of classical Greek culture.

These two cities are indissolubly linked to the Homeric epics, the Iliad, and the Odyssey , which have influenced European art and literature for more than three millennia…

The citadel of Mycenae, with its strategic position for the control of the Argolid Plain, is the kingdom of the mythical Agamemnon and the most important and richest palatial center of the Late Bronze Age in Greece.

Its name was given to one of the greatest civilizations of Greek prehistory, the Mycenaean civilization, while the myths related to its history, its rulers, and their family members (such as Klytaimnestra, Ifigeneia, Elektra, Orestes) have inspired poets, writers, and artists over many centuries, from the ancient to the contemporary times.

Significant stages in monumental architecture are still visible in the property, such as the massive defensive walls, the corbelled tholos tombs, and the Lions Gate.

I visited Mycenae on a guided tour like this Mycenae and Epidaurus: Full-Day Tour from Athens , which also stopped at Nafplio and Corinth (below). However, if you go on your own then you can visit it with Tiryns so you can see both archeology sites.

It’s really up to you which other sites you want to see on your trip.

»» Book a Mycenae tour or check tour reviews. ««

Ancient Epidaurus is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Greece, which includes a beautiful ancient Greek theater and a small museum. According to UNESCO :

In a small valley in the Peloponnesus, the shrine of Asklepios, the god of medicine, developed out of a much earlier cult of Apollo (Maleatas), during the 6th century BC at the latest, as the official cult of the city-state of Epidaurus.

Its principal monuments, particularly the temple of Asklepios, the Tholos, and the Theatre – considered one of the purest masterpieces of Greek architecture – date from the 4th century.

The vast site, with its temples and hospital buildings devoted to its healing gods, provides valuable insight into the healing cults of Greek and Roman times.

I saw Epidaurus on a Mycenae and Epidaurus: Full-Day Tour from Athens , which also stopped at Nafplio and Corinth (below). However, you can also visit on your own.

If you go via public transportation you won’t be able to see quite as many sites in a single day. You might be able to do all the sites in one day if you rent a car. A car rental may or may not save you money over the price of the tour.

»» Book an Epidaurus tour or check tour reviews. ««

Hydra is an island in the Saronic Gulf, which you can visit with a water taxi from Piraeus, the port of Athens.

Once you’re here, you can go to the beautiful Orthodox church, eat lunch at one of the tavernas on the harbor, go to the beach, and see the beautiful white-washed Greek architecture.

Hydra Town is the island’s main city, but it has more of a village feel that you will love.

There are three islands near Athens that you can visit as day trips. I visited all three on a Full-Day Cruise to Aegina, Poros, and Hydra . I’m listing them in order of how much I liked each island, so if you only want to see one I would pick Hydra.

»» Book a Cruise to Hydra or check cruise reviews. ««

If you only want to visit one island and you love ancient Greek temples, then you need to pick Aegina. Along with the Parthenon and the Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounion, Aegina’s Temple of Aphaia forms a triangle that was important in the religion of the ancient Greeks.

The temple also has way fewer visitors than the other two, so I got to visit practically alone.

Beyond the temple, there’s an important Greek Orthodox Cathedral that you don’t want to miss. If you have more time, get out and explore.

The island is beautiful, with a great harbor to walk around and some off-the-beaten-path beaches for sunbathing and swimming.

I visited Aegina on a Full-Day Cruise to Aegina, Poros, and Hydra . If you don’t want to go on a guided tour, you can take the water taxis directly to Aegina and back from Athens.

The main difference is you really can only visit one island on your own, so you do have to pick just one.

»» Book a Cruise to Aegina or check cruise reviews. ««

Read: Aegina or Hydra: Which Saronic Island Should You Visit?

One of the smallest islands you can visit from Athens , Poros is actually two separate islands with a single name. While here, climb up to the landmark white clocktower, walk along the harbor, and visit Faros lighthouse.

Poros is a great slice of island life but still reachable from Athens, and it’s a favorite escape for many locals. I visited Poros Full-Day Cruise to Aegina, Poros, and Hydra .

If you want to go on your own, use the water taxis. You will need to choose just one island to visit in this case. There are pros and cons to both forms of travel.

I chose the cruise so I could see all three islands, but if you go on your own you can spend more time exploring a single island.

»» Book a Cruise to Poros or check cruise reviews. ««

Aigialeia Wine Tour

If you love wine tourism and you want to get out and explore the Peloponnese, then you should spend a day exploring the region on an Aigialeia Private Wine Tour .

This tour includes a train ride through Vouraikos Canyon, the monastery of Mega Spileon, walking through a local vineyard, wine tasting, and lunch.

You can DIY this tour if you want to rent a car and explore the region on your own. Just be careful and avoid the tasting part of the wine tasting so you can safely drive back to Athens at the end of the day.

The legal limit for alcohol when you’re driving is much less than most travelers will be used to. Consuming even one drink will put you over the legal limit.

»» Book an Aigialeia Wine Tour or check tour reviews. ««

Nafplio is a beautiful seaside town in Argolis, with a hillside citadel and a castle in the middle of the water. If you want to spend time on the coast, this is a great city to come to for the day.

You can visit as a day trip from Athens on your own by bus. I went on a guided tour that also visited Mycenae and Epidaurus , with a short stop in Corinth.

I loved my time in Nafplio, but I definitely would like to go back for longer. If you want to visit on a guided tour but want more time in the city, I would go on this Full Day Trip to Nafplio and Ancient Epidaurus which spends more time in the city (plus you still get to see Epidaurus)!

»» Book a Nafplio tour or check tour reviews. ««

The city of Corinth is famous for its mention in the Bible (think first Corinthians, second Corinthians, etc). Its ethereal-looking Canal is another reason you may have heard of the city before.

Many visitors who come to Corinth are interested in seeing the town where St. Paul lived and preached for two years. Other important sites here include the ancient Temple of Apollo.

I only got to spend a few minutes in the city, seeing the canal, as part of my Mycenae and Epidaurus tour. However, if you’re interested in exploring Corinth more deeply, I suggest going on the Ancient Corinth Half-Day Tour from Athens instead.

»» Book a Corinth tour or check tour reviews. ««

Mount Olympus

Visiting Mount Olympus in a single day from Athens would be very ambitious. There are no organized tours that I can find, and the driving time from Athens to Olympus is five and a half hours.

I would never visit this as a day trip (which is why I haven’t visited Mount Olympus yet).

So why am I listing it? Because Athens is the kind of place people visit after dreaming about it for years. I know people who have rented cars and visited Olympus as a day trip.

They did this because they were short on time, and it was the thing they wanted to see the most during their trip.

So, if you want to see Mount Olympus and you only have a single day, you can. Just rent a car and prepare to drive eleven to twelve hours that day. But if this is the thing you’ve been dreaming about the most, then do it!

It’s a much easier day trip from Thessaloniki, so if you’re trying to decide between Athens or Thessaloniki and this site is important to you, then I would go to Thessaloniki.

Athenian Riviera

While a trip out to the Athenian Riviera is still technically “within Athens,” it’s a very different side of the city. Since you’ll also need to pack a beach bag, it’s not easy to combine a day here with other city activities.

You can come out to the beach to explore the different harbors and go for a swim, or you can come out at night and explore the vibrant club scene.

I wouldn’t bother with any of the guided tours out there, but you might want to book a ticket on the Athens, Piraeus & Riviera & Beaches Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour so you can easily get from place to place quickly.

»» Book an Athenian Riviera Hop-On Hop-Off Bus tour or check tour reviews. ««

If you want to explore the Greek islands, but you want to avoid cruise ships and water taxis, why not go sailing! You can sail from Athens to Agistri.

This Sailing Cruise to Aegina, Moni & Agistri includes swimming and relaxing on the beaches of Agistri before visiting the islands of Aegina and Moni. I can’t think of a better way to escape the bustle of Athens on a hot day than on a sailboat and swimming in the Greek isles!

»» Book a sailing tour to Agistri or check tour reviews. ««

The sailing cruise mentioned above, Sailing Cruise to Aegina, Moni & Agistri, includes a stop in Moni as its second port of call.

In Moni, you eat a traditional Greek lunch before swimming in the clear blue waters off the island. It’s a small slice of paradise in the middle of your sailing cruise.

Nemea Winery

Another option for a wine tour is to visit the wineries in Nemea near Corinth. As I mentioned earlier, you can visit a few wineries in a rental car, but if you want to go on a wine tasting you need to visit on a guided tour.

The legal drinking limit in Greece is much lower than in the UK or the USA. One drink and you’ll be over.

This Nemea Winery Private Tour includes pick-up at your hotel and takes you to Nemea, where you’ll go on wine tastings, explore the vineyards, and learn about the Greek winemaking tradition.

»» Book a Nemea Winery tour or check tour reviews. ««

Blue Hole Dive

If you’re more interested in seeing what’s under the water than what’s above ground, you can go Scuba Diving at the Blue Hole at Vouliagmeni Lake.

The Blue Hole looks like a man-made well near the lake. Here you can scuba dive the beautiful reefs and rock walls, with good visibility and warm water. Includes hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Should You DIY Your Athens Day Trip or Go on a Guided Tour?

I have gone on more guided bus tours from Athens than any other city I’ve ever visited. To put it into perspective, a few years ago I spent a month in Cyprus and Athens back-to-back. In Cyprus, I went on eight different day trips that I did on my own using the intercity buses and renting a car.

In Athens, this just wasn’t as easy. Everything I wanted to see was complicated on my own. Instead, I went on seven different day trips from Athens but I went only on guided bus tours.

This is due to a few unique factors about traveling in Athens:

Some of the best day trips are far from Athens
Public Transportation can eat up an enormous amount of time
There are so many places to see that it’s easier to combine sites on a guided tour than on public transportation
Car rentals in Greece can sometimes be as expensive as the guided tour

Of course, there are drawbacks to guided tours as well, like not having as much time as you want on a site. In this case, it might be worth it to travel and spend a night near where you want to go instead of trying to get there and back in a day.

For example, I would only suggest a guided tour for visiting Meteora as a day trip from Athens. If you want to DIY a trip to Meteora, you should spend a night in Kalabaka.

If you are only interested in day trips that you can visit without a tour, I would pick visiting one of the islands, going to the Athenian Riviera, or visiting the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion.

Athens Day Tour Recommendations

Greece - Meteora - Day Tour from Athens with Meteora Thrones

Here are all the Athens day tour recommendations from this post in an easy-to-reference list.

Delphi Day Trip from Athens
Meteora Full-Day Trip from Athens by Train
Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounion Tour
Athens Hop-on-Hop-off Bus & Cape Sounion Sunset Combo Tour
Mycenae and Epidaurus: Full-Day Tour from Athens
Full-Day Cruise to Aegina, Poros, and Hydra
Aigialeia Private Wine Tour
Full Day Trip to Nafplio and Ancient Epidaurus
Ancient Corinth Half Day Tour from Athens
Athens, Piraeus & Riviera & Beaches Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
Sailing Cruise to Aegina, Moni & Agistri
Nemea Winery Private Tour
Scuba Diving at the Blue Hole

Greece Travel Resources

Greece - Hydra - Stephanie leaving Hydra on an Island Cruise

Headed to Greece? We have some great travel resources to help you with your trip. First read our guide to planning a trip to Greece , which covers visas, budgets, vaccines, and much more. We also have a Balkan currency guide that explains how money works in Greece and local tipping customs.

If you are still trying to figure out your itinerary, check out our guides on where to go in Greece and when is the best time to visit.

If you’ll be spending time in Athens, check out our Athens Instagram Guide and our complete Athens hotel guide.

We publish new content about the Balkans almost every day! For more information about traveling to Greece and the Balkans, bookmark our Greece and Balkan travel pages so you can find out what’s new before your trip.

Key Things to Pack on Your Trip to Greece

If you’re planning a trip to Greece, you’ll want to pack all the normal essentials, but here are a few things we strongly recommend bringing that may not have crossed your mind. For more packing tips, check out our complete Greece packing list.

– A physical guidebook, on paper or Kindle . We love Lonely Planet Greece for this region and strongly recommend it to supplement blogs. Blogs are great, but a combination of a blog and a guidebook is key to having the best access to information easily at your fingertips.

– A water bottle with a filter . While often, the tap water in Greece is drinkable, there are places where it isn’t, including some popular tourist destinations like Santorini.

We generally recommend using a water bottle with a purifying filter to reduce your plastic consumption and ensure you won’t drink any funny-tasting water on your stomach that could make your trip unpleasant!

We recommend the GRAYL water bottle – it filters water perfectly in an instant so that you can even drink from lakes, bad taps, etc.

– Motion sickness pills . Very necessary if you’re visiting some common day trips, like Meteora or Delphi, or if you’ll be taking a ferry! Many Greek roads are winding, especially around the coast, plus the ferries in the Mediterranean can be quite choppy. If you have a weak stomach as we do, save yourself and bring some non-drowsy motion sickness pills .

– Travel safety items . We think Greece is very safe to travel to, but at the same time, it never hurts to be prepared! Pickpocketing can be quite prevalent in Athens, so be cautious. Some people like to carry money belts, but neither Stephanie nor I use these. Instead, we both carry the same PacSafe anti-theft backpack .

It has locking zippers, slash-proof construction with metal mesh hidden in the fabric, and tons of other smart security features — all while being cute and stylish enough to be our everyday bag. We recommend it highly for both male and female travelers, as it’s neutral enough to be unisex. We also strongly recommend travel insurance! Our recommendation is at the bottom of the post.

Finally, Make Sure You Come to Greece with Travel Insurance

I’m sure you’re aware that travel insurance is essential for traveling in Greece, the Balkans, or anywhere in the world! Allison and I have both been paying customers of World Nomads for the last three years. We love the peace of mind it gives us in case of emergencies, accidents, illnesses, theft, or trip cancellation or disruption.

While Athens is perfectly safe to travel around, there’s always a risk inherent in everyday travel like theft or injury, so it’s better to play it safe. The saying goes “if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel” is true!

Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here.

Pin This Athens Day Trip Guide for Your Trip to Greece

Stephanie has been living in and traveling around the Balkans for the past three years. She’s written for National Geographic Online , appeared on CNN Arabic and in the New York Times , and ridden more Balkan buses than is good for a person.

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15 Top-Rated Day Trips from Athens

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Mar 2, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Some of the Greece's top tourist attractions are within easy reach of Athens . Fascinating historical monuments, spectacular natural scenery, and peaceful spiritual retreats can be visited on day trips from Greece's capital city.

Just a short drive or bus ride from the city are the UNESCO-listed Monastery of Daphne, the inspiring Kaisariani Monastery, the hiker's paradise of Mount Parnitha, and the gorgeous Lake Vouliagmeni on the Athens Riviera coastline.

Other destinations are slightly further afield and merit staying overnight, especially Metéora, where amazing monasteries spring forth from a mystical landscape, and Nafplio, a romantic seaside town that is a perfect base for visiting archaeological sites in Mycenae and Epidaurus.

Any of these excursions would make a fantastic addition to your Greece vacation itinerary . Discover the best places to visit and plan your adventures with our list of the best day trips from Athens.

3. Mycenae: The Legendary City of Greek Mythology

4. athens riviera (coast of apollo), 5. the islands of aegina, poros, and hydra, 7. the romantic city of nafplio, 8. the ancient theater of epidaurus, 9. the monastery of daphni, 10. monastery of kaisariani, 11. ancient cult mysteries at eleusis, 12. piraeus: an ancient harbor, modern port, and ferry terminus, 13. lake marathon, 14. mystras, 15. mount parnitha, map of day trips from athens.

In an enchanting natural setting between two craggy peaks of Mount Parnassus , the archaeological ruins of Delphi have a magical quality. At this legendary site during Classical antiquity, an oracle shared advice and prophecies.

This intriguing UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site was one of the most important religious centers in Greece in the 6th century BCE (on par with the Island of Delos). During ancient times, pilgrims came to hear the oracle of Apollo (a prophetess believed to channel the words of the god Apollo) speak at Delphi's Temple of Apollo.

Among the highlights of visiting Delphi is walking along The Sacred Way that leads up to the Temple of Apollo. This route gives visitors a sense of the pilgrimage path once used to enter the hallowed Sanctuary of Apollo , a complex of several monuments.

The Archaeological Museum of Delphi displays objects uncovered at the archaeological site and is considered one of the world's best collections of ancient Greek artifacts, dating from the Mycenaean period to Late Antiquity. Highlights include the Classical-era bronze Charioteer of Delphi statue, the 6th-century BCE Sphinx of Naxos (lion's body with bird wings and a woman's head), and sculpted treasuries (reliefs) that reveal mythological scenes. The museum also has a gift shop and a cafeteria.

Delphi is 180 kilometers from Athens, and it's possible to visit it as a day trip, although the drive takes about 2.5 hours. For those who have the time, an overnight trip is more relaxing, but for travelers spending only one day in Delphi, the best way to see all the essential places is by taking an organized excursion.

The Delphi Day Trip from Athens is recommended because it features a walking tour through the archaeological site, led by a knowledgeable guide who shares insights about the ancient monuments and history. This tour also includes a visit to the Archaeological Museum.

Breathtakingly surreal and serenely spiritual, the Metéora monasteries spring forth from a dreamy landscape of rocky cliffs in the Plain of Thessaly.

The first hermits came to this far-removed corner of Greece at least as early as the 9th century to withdraw from the world and contemplate divinity. Christian Orthodox monks began building monasteries here in the 14th century and continued establishing monasteries until the 16th century.

Originally 24 monasteries stood at this astonishing location, built onto the edges of vertiginous cliffs or perched on sheer sandstone formations reaching 300 meters to over 500 meters in elevation. With their exalted heights and almost mystical inaccessibility, the Metéora monasteries seem to soar towards heaven and reflect the human striving for holiness.

Currently only a small group of monks and nuns live and worship at the six remaining Metéora monasteries that are still active. Today, Metéora draws more tourists than spiritual seekers, as this designated UNESCO World Heritage Site is an extremely popular travel destination. The six working monasteries (including two convents) at the site are open to the public.

Standing on a high rock formation, the Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron (Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of Christ) presides over the landscape and affords phenomenal views. Founded in the 14th century, the Great Meteoron Monastery is the largest monastery at Metéora. Highlights include 16th-century frescoes and a collection of Greek Orthodox religious icons and Byzantine-era manuscripts.

The Monastery of Varlaám , founded in the 14th century and built in the 16th century, is the second largest monastery in Metéora. Accessible by a pedestrian staircase, this monastery has a magnificent domed church decorated with exquisite frescoes. The monastic complex also includes a museum of reliquaries (in the former refectory), dormitory quarters, and a small wood-roofed chapel.

Clinging to a steep precipice as if suspended in midair, the glorious 15th-century Monastery of Holy Trinity is the most inaccessible; it's reached by a pedestrian pathway that leads to a staircase of 300 steps. This monastery boasts the most spectacular location of Metéora, which was used as a film set in For Your Eyes Only (a 1981 movie) when James Bond scaled the cliffside.

The Monastery of Saint Nicholas of Anapafsas, dating to the 14th century, features a tiny low-domed church decorated with precious murals created in 1527 by Theophanes Strelitzas, a monk from the island of Crete. These frescoes are considered among the finest examples of post-Byzantine painting in Greece.

One of the most striking sights in Metéora, the 16th-century Monastery of Roussanou comprises several buildings that crown sheer pinnacles. Now a convent, the Monastery of Roussanou is home to a small community of around 15 nuns. From the Monastery of Roussanou, visitors can take in views of the other Metéora monasteries and the dramatic landscape.

In a vantage point that offers superb panoramas of the valley and the mountains, the Monastery of Saint Stephan (another convent) is the easiest of the monasteries to access because it is reached by a footbridge rather than steps.

Tourists who have enough time can hike from one monastery to the next.

Metéora is a long journey from Athens (about 350 kilometers away) whether traveling by train, bus, or car, so it can be difficult to fit in as a day trip. For the easiest and best experience at Metéora, a guided excursion is the way to go. Travelers get the most out of a well-organized tour, such as the Meteora Day Trip by Train from Athens that allows for visits to three monasteries, led by a guide who explains the unique history of each monastery.

Mycenae: The Legendary City of Greek Mythology

The real-life location of the city of Agamemnon in Greek mythology (often mentioned by Homer), the archaeological ruins of Mycenae are 120 kilometers from Athens and about 25 kilometers from Nafplio.

Mycenae dates to the Bronze Age, when the fortified citadel at this hilltop settlement was an important center of ancient Mycenaean civilization , especially in the 14th and 13th century BCE. The earliest archaeological fragments uncovered here date to the 15th century BCE, considered the Prehistoric Period .

Visitors can see remains of ancient palaces, fountains, ramparts, and the famous Lion's Gate and "Tomb of Agamemnon" (also called the "Treasury of Atreus"). Many of the ruins are remarkably well-preserved considering their antiquity.

To get the most out of a visit to this incredible archaeological site, a guided tour is the best option. The full-day Mycenae and Epidaurus Day Trip departs from Athens, and stops in Mycenae, Nafplio, and Epidaurus. The visit to Mycenae includes a walking tour led by an expert in ancient Greek history, who illuminates the significance of the Mycenae ruins and tells interesting stories.

Mycenae - Acropolis Map - Tourist Attractions

This lovely stretch of coastline begins just a few kilometers outside of Athens and extends for approximately 100 kilometers (a two-hour drive) until reaching Cape Soúnion. This area has many archaeological ruins, as well as pampering spas, five-star hotels, traditional restaurants, golf courses, beach clubs, sailing clubs, and yacht marinas.

During summertime, vacation-goers luxuriate in the balmy weather, go for strolls along palm-fringed seaside esplanades, and bask in the sunshine on well-maintained beaches.

Highlights of the Athens Riviera include the seaport of Lavrio ; the mesmerizing Lake Vouliagmeni , therapeutic natural hot springs with underwater caves; and the impressive Doric-style Temple of Poseidon (dating to the 5th century BCE), which stands majestically on a steep crag at Cape Soúnion overlooking the sparkling emerald-blue waters of the Mediterranean.

It's easy to visit many of the attractions along the Athens Riviera by using public transportation; the tram leaves from Syntagma Square in the Athens city center.

The most delightful way to discover the Athens Riviera is by taking an organized tour. The Cape Soúnion and Temple of Poseidon Half-Day Trip departs from Athens for a scenic drive along the coastline, winding along the stunning coastal cliffs until arriving at the Temple of Poseidon. At the archaeological site, tourists can explore the ruins, take photos, and admire the ravishing sea view that extends all the way to the Island of Kea on a clear day.

Waterfront Town of Poros, Island of Poros

Surrounded by the calm blue waters of the Saronic Gulf , the islands of Aegina, Poros, and Hydra are easy day-trip destinations for tourists based in Athens. All three islands are accessible by ferry boats from the port at Piraeus (12 kilometers from Athens).

The Island of Aegina, the closest to Athens (a 40-minute ferry ride from Piraeus), is famous for the Temple of Athena Aphaia, which is one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Greece. Other must-see attractions include the ancient ruins of the Temple of Apollo and the Archaeological Museum with a famous 6th-century BCE sculpture of the Aegina Sphinx.

Known for its beautiful sandy shoreline and crystal-clear waters, the Island of Poros (a one-hour ferry ride from Piraeus) is ideal for family summer vacations and weekend trips from Athens. Highlights include the waterfront town of Poros and the seaside village of Askeli with tourist-friendly beaches, cafés, and restaurants.

Slightly farther from Athens but still an easy day trip, the Island of Hydra is an enchanting destination, where donkeys are the only means of public transportation. Narrow cobblestone streets and pedestrian alleyways add to the old-world feel. The island's capital, Hydra Town, features an attractive and bustling harbor. The island also has a small fishing village with good seafood tavernas, a scenic coastal walking path, and calm sheltered beaches.

Each of the islands merits a visit, but because of the limited ferry schedule, it's only logistically feasible to visit one of the islands on a day trip if traveling by ferry.

One way to see all three islands in a day (and much easier than traveling by ferry from Piraeus) is the Hydra, Poros, and Aegina Day Cruise . This full-day cruise departs in Athens and stops at all three islands. Sufficient time is allowed on each island for taking leisurely strolls, visiting the historic monuments, browsing souvenir shops, and relaxing at outdoor cafés. This cruise also includes lunch and a traditional Greek music and dance performance.

17 Unmissable Day Trips From Athens: Take A Tour From Athens

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

Here are 17 of the best day Trips from Athens, Greece. From sailing to the Greek islands to wandering ancient temples and hiking glorious mountains, we have it all covered.

Greece Travel Blog_Best Day Trips From Athens

Undoubtedly, Athens is a treat for any explorer and well worth investing many days exploring it. However, Athen’s attractions extend beyond the city’s boundaries and traditional things to do.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Historical And Archaeological Tours

1. athens to epidaurus: the perfect day trip.

Ancient Stadium in Epidaurus - near Nafplio

The breathtaking amphitheater constructed in Epidaurus during the 4th century B.C. is its most prominent feature of Epidaurus. It still stages performances and boasts outstanding acoustics, offering stunning panoramas of the surroundings from its uppermost seats.

In addition, Epidaurus is home to one of Ancient Greece’s most significant healing places , like temples.

SJ posing Ancient Stadium in Epidaurus Greece

What To See:

Temple of Asklepios
Archaeological Museum of Epidaurus
Ancient Theater of Epidaurus
Sunken City of Epidaurus

How To Get There:

Unmissable Greek Archaeological Sites

2. Day Trip To Delphi From Athens

Greek Temples - Ruins of ancient greek temple of Apollo

When we term one of the best day trips from Athens, Delphi, the navel of the world comes to mind. In Greek mythology, the navel, or the center of the world, means the meeting point of two eagles released by Zeus. History, myths, and breathtaking mountains come together to form the stunning location of the town of Delphi.

Home to Pythia, The sanctuary of Apollo
Ruins of the Temple of Apollo
Delphi Archeological Museum
Temples at the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia
Delphi stadium and ancient theatre on the hill
Circular temple of Tholos
Clifftop village on the slopes of Mt Parnassos

Get the KTEL bus from the Athens Terminal station. It takes about two and a half hours to travel the 110 miles to reach Delphi from Athens.

How To Get From Athens To Delphi

3. Athens To Corinthia Guided Tour

Ancient Greek Cities - Ruins of temple in Corinth, Greece

The extensive yet condensed ruins of this ancient city loom within the contemporary and modern community of Corinthia.

Pausanias and St. Paul traveled the streets of Ancient Corinth and proclaimed the message of Christ there. It was also the home of the fabled Jason of the Argonauts, thief of the Golden Fleece.

For those who enjoy history, there are treasures like the renowned twin Kouroi statues and a collection of Corinthian pottery.

Temple of Apollo
The Peribolos of Apollo
The ancient theatre
Acrocorinth fortress on the hill
Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth
Corinth Canal

You can rent a car from Athens’ Kifissos Bus Terminal or take the bus to Corinth. Take a taxi or a bus from Corinth to the ancient Corinth archaeological site .

The journey takes around one hour. Traveling to Corinth by Suburban Railway from Plakentias Station will take one hour and fifteen minutes.

4. Athens Day Trip To Mycenae And Epidaurus

UNESCO World Heritage Sites In Greece -The Lion Gate in Mycenae, Greece

An exciting day trip from Athens that should be at the top of your list is Mycenae, a cornerstone of ancient Greek history. It’s an easy day trip from Athens, allowing you to dive deep into the Mycenaean civilization, making it one of the most popular day trips from Athens.

This destination offers a full day of exploration in the ruins that were once the center of Greek civilization. When you visit Mycenae, don’t miss the legendary Lion’s Gate and the Tomb of Agamemnon.

The journey from your Athens hotel to the archaeological sites of Mycenae and Epidaurus is a ride from Athens filled with anticipation for the ancient wonders that await.

5. Athens To Sparta Day Trip

Ancient Sparta ruins, Peloponnese, Greece

Fancy a trip back in time to the land of warriors? A day trip from Athens to Sparta might be the ticket.

Getting there is a bit of a trek—by road, it’s around a 3-hour drive each way – so, it’s a good idea to start your day early or consider a bus tour if you’re not keen on driving.

Sparta doesn’t flaunt its ancient ruins as Athens does, but it’s soaked in history with a capital H. The Archaeological Museum of Sparta is a great starting point to dive into the city’s past. Then, head over to the ancient ruins of the Acropolis of Sparta to get a sense of its former glory.

Don’t expect towering temples or grand theaters; Sparta was known for its minimalist approach, focusing on military might over monumental buildings. The nearby modern city of Sparti offers a glimpse into contemporary Greek life, with cozy cafes and local shops.

The region is also known for its olive oil, so grabbing a bottle to take home is a must.

Be ready for a day packed with history, scenic drives, and a taste of authentic Greek culture.

Guide To The Ancient Greek Cities

Brands We Use And Trust

Nature and scenic tours, 6. perfect day from athens to cape sounion.

Greek Temples - Temple of Poseidon, Sounio

One of the most well-liked day trips from Athens is to Cape Sounion.

Visitors take advantage of the warm weather to relax, stroll along palm-lined seaside promenades, and soak up the sun on well-kept beaches. One of the most memorable things is catching the gorgeous sunset and taking in the breathtaking views of the sea.

The Aegean Sea bears King Aegeus’ name since it is said that he jumped to his death from Cape Sounion.

Temple of Poseidon
Fish taverns in the nearby town of Lavrio
The archaeological museum
The tomb of Athenians fallen in the battle
Lake and dam

Rent a car from the Pedion Areos terminal station or board a KTEL intercity coach bus. Traveling to Cape Sounion from Athens takes an hour and a half.

Book your day trips here.

7. athens to meteora day tour.

Meteora-Monasteries_Holy-Trinity-monastery-on-the-rock-in-Meteora_greece

Visit Meteora on a day trip from Athens, which is a popular destination for hikers, rock climbers, and photographers because of its magnificent landscape.

It is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist destinations in the nation because of magnificent Byzantine monasteries perched on enormous rock formations. The monasteries of Meteora seem to ascend towards heaven and express human strive for holiness with their dizzying heights and almost supernatural inaccessibility.

Great Meteoron Monastery
Holy Trinity Monastery
Monastery of Varlaám

You can rent a car or travel to Kalampaka by early-morning train from the Athens train station. It takes roughly four to five hours to travel 225 miles to Kalampaka from Athens.

Guide To Meteora

8. Lake Marathon From Athens

Lake Marathon, a tranquil retreat around Athens, is a popular day trip for those looking to escape the bustle of Athens. It’s an easy trip, just a short drive from Athens, perfect for a leisurely day out.

This site combines natural beauty with a taste of Greek history, thanks to the Marathon Dam. The lake’s serene waters and the surrounding area offer a peaceful respite and a chance to reconnect with nature.

9. Explore The Athenian Riviera

Mainland Greece Beaches - Glyfada Beach, Athens

The Athenian Riviera offers an exciting day out with a blend of beach life and cultural sights. This stretch of coast south of Athens is an easy and popular day trip destination where you can enjoy the sea, sun, and sand.

The Riviera, with its crystal-clear waters and chic cafes, embodies the laid-back yet luxurious side of Greek culture.

A trip along the Athens Riviera, from the trendy areas of Glyfada to the historic Cape Sounion, is a must-do. Here you’ll find an adventure combining relaxation with a touch of ancient Greek history at the Temple of Poseidon .

10. Mount Olympus From Athens

Best Day Trips From Thessaloniki - Mount Olympus, tallest mountain on Greece

A trip from Athens to see Mount Olympus is for the bold and adventurous, seeking to connect with the mythology and natural grandeur of mainland Greece.

Although it’s a longer ride from Athens, the journey to the home of the gods is an unforgettable experience that blends ancient Greek myths with breathtaking landscapes.

It’s an exciting day trip from Athens for those eager to explore beyond the city and delve into Greece’s rich mythological and natural heritage.

Cultural And Religious Tours

11. holy monastery of kaisariani from athens.

Hiking Athens - Kaisariani Monastery is an Eastern Orthodox monastery built on the north side of Mount Hymettus, near Athens, Greece.

A visit to the Holy Monastery of Kaisariani offers a peaceful retreat not far from the capital of Greece.

Located on the lush slopes of Mount Hymettus, a short drive from Athens, this Byzantine monastery is a perfect day trip for those looking to explore the ancient and the spiritual. It’s a journey back in time and an opportunity to experience the serene beauty and monastic traditions of Greece.

Monasteries In Greece To See

12. Tour From Athens To Moni

For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, a day trip to Moni island from Athens is an exciting day out. Depart from Athens by boat for a quick ride to this unspoiled paradise near Aegina.

Moni promises a day of exploration in pristine nature, making it a perfect day trip for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. This trip showcases the diversity of destinations just a stone’s throw from Athens, offering a unique island experience without the crowds.

Island Hopping And Beach Tours

13. day trip from athens to aegina.

Temples In Greece - Temple of Aphaea, Aegina

Do you want to take the quickest island day trip from Athens? If yes, then Aegina is the location you are looking for.

The island in the Saronic Gulf offers the ideal fusion of ancient remains, soothing sandy beaches , elegant neoclassical architecture, and regional specialties like pistachios.

The picturesque town of Aegina
Doric-style Temple of Aphaia
Villages of Agia Marina
Huge Orthodox church of Agios Nektarios
Fishing village of Perdika

An Athens to Aegina day trip is easy to arrange; take the metro from Athens to the 25-minute-distance Piraeus harbor. Take a ferry or hydrofoil sixteen kilometers to Agia Marina port or Aegina Town. The ferry from Athens to Aegina takes roughly 40 minutes.

Guide To Aegina Island

Book your ferries in Greece here.

14. go on a day trip from athens to nafplio.

Nafplio or Nafplion, Greece, Peloponnese

Nafplio is a gorgeous day excursion from Athens. On Nafplio day trips, you’ll witness a charming seaside village that served as Greece’s first Capital.

Spend the day visiting the city’s winding streets, Venetian architecture, and neoclassical building styles. Nafplio is a very well-liked place for a day trip or a more extended stay because there are many chic hotels, beautiful boutiques, and little restaurants tucked away in winding lanes.

Additionally, the area offers several pleasant sandy beaches and public wineries.

Syntagma Square
Palamidi castle
The Venetian fortress of Bourtzi on the islet of Agioi Theodoroi
Argos Archaeological Museum
Ancient Theater of Argos
Ramparts of the Akronafplia Castle

Take a KTEL bus from Athens Kifissos station or rent a car. It takes 1.5 to 2 hours by road from Athens to Nafplio.

Guide To Nafplio Island

15. Choose One Of Three Islands Near Athens – Aegina, Hydra, Or Paros

Paros Island Guide - The beautiful village of Parikia in the island of Paros, Greece

If you’re in Athens and itching for some island vibes without the long haul, three islands are easily accessible on a boat trip.

The Saronic Gulf is dotted with charming islands that are easily accessible, such as Hydra, Aegina, and Paros, each offering its own unique slice of Greek island life, and all are easily accessible by boat.

The journey itself is part of the fun, with stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the Greek coastline as you zip across the blue waters. These trips can take anywhere from 40 minutes to 2 hours, making them perfect for a day’s escape.

Aegina is known for its pistachios, ancient Temple of Aphaia, and quaint port town. It’s a foodie’s delight and a history buff’s playground.

Hydra, on the other hand, is car-free and known for its preserved stone architecture, donkey rides, and vibrant art scene. It’s like stepping into a quieter, slower-paced world.

Poros, with its dreamy seafront promenade, pine forests, and clock tower view, offers a more laid-back vibe.

How To Travel Between Athens & Paros

Things to do in Hydra Greece - Fishing boats in Hydra Island

Most boat trips offer the option to hop between islands, so you can get a taste of each without having to pick just one. Expect a relaxed day of exploration, sunbathing, and possibly the best seafood you’ve ever had when you spend a day exploring. Bring your camera, comfy shoes for wandering, and a light jacket for the breezy boat ride back.

This is the perfect way to experience the diversity of the Greek islands in a nutshell without straying too far from the capital.

Guide To Paros Island
Guide To Hydra Island

16. Sail To The Greek Island Of Agistri From Athens

Chalikiada is the most popular beach in Agistri island, Greece

Sailing to Agistri from Athens is like discovering a hidden gem just a stone’s throw from the bustling capital. This small island in the Saronic Gulf is a paradise for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in crystal-clear waters and lush greenery.

The journey to Agistri starts at Piraeus port, where you can catch a ferry or a flying dolphin; the trip takes about an hour, making it perfectly doable for a refreshing day out. Once you arrive, you’ll feel the laid-back island atmosphere immediately.

Agistri is smaller and less commercial than its famous neighbors like Hydra or Aegina, providing a more intimate experience of Greek island life. Beacuse the island is compact, it’s easy to explore, either on foot, by bike, or by renting a scooter.

It boasts beautiful beaches like Skala, known for its soft sands and family-friendly vibes, and Aponissos, where you’ll find tranquil waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The island is also a haven for nature lovers, with pine forests that come right down to the shoreline, offering shady retreats and excellent hiking trails.

What to expect? A day filled with sunbathing, swimming in turquoise waters, and perhaps a leisurely exploration of the island’s charming villages. The local tavernas serve up delicious, fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes that you won’t want to miss.

17. One-Day Tour To Mykonos From Athens

Panoramic view of Mykonos town, Cyclades islands, Greece

Heading out to Mykonos for a day trip from Athens? It’s a brilliant idea and totally doable. First off, you’re looking at a ferry ride to get there, which is part of the adventure.

The ferries usually kick off early in the morning, so you’ll need to be an early bird to catch one. The journey can take anywhere from 2 to 5 hours, depending on the ferry you hop on—speed does come at a higher price tag, but you’ll need to pay it to enjoy the day in Mykonos.

Once you set foot on Mykonos, the island vibes start right away. This place is famous for its stunning beaches, so chilling by the sea is a must.

Don’t miss out on wandering through Mykonos Town with its iconic windmills and the maze of white-painted streets. It’s a selfie haven, with every corner offering a new backdrop.

Expect a laid-back atmosphere, but also be prepared for the island’s upscale side, with chic boutiques and fancy restaurants. Foodies, get ready for some fantastic seafood!

Keep an eye on the time; you don’t want to miss your ferry back to Athens after a day soaking up the sun and culture.

Closest Islands To Athens

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Renting A Car In Greece

For our day trips, we always choose to drive where possible to give us the best freedom to stop and go as we please. Driving in Greece is easy , and the roads are of excellent quality. We book our rental cars with DiscoverCars or Rentals Cars.

Just remember that cars are not allowed on Hydra Island, so keep that in mind.

Get a quote on a car rental here.

Final thoughts on day trips from athens.

Athens, a world-class city, is teeming with sights and entertainment that will keep any visitor busy for weeks. Athens is definitely a marvel, and the surrounding places are no less. The extraordinary past is common to the city, as many beautiful historical and archaeological sites are nearby. When you are in the Greek Capital, plan a day excursion to one of these locations to experience some of the wonders of antiquity.

What To See And Do In Athens
Where To Stay In Athens
Islands Close To Athens
Athens Vs. Thessaloniki
Athens Airport Hotels
Athens To Spetses Ferry Guide
5 Lesser-Known Greek Island How To Tip In Greece
Where To Stay In Crete
What To Expect & Do In September In Greece
Unique Ideas For Kids In Greece
Where To Stay In Mykonos
Top Hotels In Santorini
Things To Do And Eat During Easter In Greece
How To Travel Greece On A Budget
How To Get From Mykonos To Santorini
10-Day Greece Itinerary Ideas

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Adventures of Alice

14 Delightful Day Trips from Athens, Greece

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There are so many great things to do in Athens. That is undeniable. On my trip there, I stayed for 5 days and that could easily have spanned into 7 days or more with all the day trips from Athens that I wanted to include.

You see, even though this incredibly historic European city is often used as a short stop-off on the way to the picture-perfect Greek islands, there’s a lot more going for it than simply the Acropolis.

If you’re interested in Greek history and exploring the culture of the country itself, a few excursions to Athens’ beautiful surroundings are 100% worth it.

My favourite Travel resources for Athens

✅ Here’s t he hotel we stayed at during our time there. ✅ Top Athens da y trips : The City of Delphi , the Hydra and Poros islands ✅ To see more of Athens, I highly recommend hiring a car .

What are the best day trips from Athens?

If you’re considering one of the many Athens day trips on offer, you’re in the right place. From history to island hopping, Greece is a wonderful European travel destination with a little something for everyone.

Nafplion is one of the best day trips from Athens

Taking some trips deeper into the country will only make you love it more. So, here are the 14 best day trips from Athens.

This charming little Peloponnese coastal town was once the capital of the modern State of Greece. A popular wedding spot, it’s now often called the most romantic place in the country and for very good reason.

Think cobbled streets, cute stores, family-owned restaurants, a beautiful secluded bay, harbourfront views, and a delightful Archeological museum. It’s only a two-hour drive from Athens, and such a hidden gem , but you can easily spend a full day here.

Nafplio is one of the best day trips from athens

This was an amazing day trip from Athens we did and I loved every second in Nafplio. We hired a car and drove there. Considering the Greek drive on the opposite side of the road to what we’re used to, it wasn’t a bad drive.

We parked at the harbour and walked across the town to the castle first, passing some beautiful gardens and yummy-smelling restaurants on the way. From there, we explored some of the pretty pebbled coves.

It was literally empty, so would’ve been perfect if you wanted a place to escape the crowds for a bit. Mind you, it was a bit chilly but it was October !

Next, we simply wandered the streets. It’s an Instagrammers paradise and I managed to get some great pictures of the town. We stopped for food at a delightful little taverna where we had some of the most delicious food I’d had during my stay in Greece.

I was quite sad when it was time to drive back. If I could, I would’ve definitely spent longer in Nafplio. It’s hand down my favourite of these day trips from Athens.

✅ I recommend this company for affordable car hire in Athens

This is probably one of the best day tours from Athens for history fans. Well, it’s a close tie with Mycenae, but we’ll get to that!

Delphi is a town on Mount Parnassus and the site of the 4th century B.C. Temple of Apollo, once home to an ancient oracle. The formerly sacred place was lost for a millennium before being rediscovered in 1897.

The gorgeous site of Delphi is one of the best day trips from athens

There are two main sites to visit. The Tholos (circular building pictured above), was built around 390 BC and the Sanctuary of Apollo (pictured below) was built half a mile from its counterpart.

According to ancient myth, the God Zeus released two eagles, one from the east, and the other from the west. They flew in opposite directions and met at the future site of Delphi. This was then considered by ancient Greeks to be the centre of the world.

It’s pretty easy to get from Athens to Delphi, however, when we went to visit Delphi, we went via a small group tour . Our guide was super knowledgeable about the site – he was able to fill us in on all this history and more.

On par with the Acropolis of Athens for historical importance, the UNESCO World Heritage site combines magnificent mountain views with its importance in Greek mythology. Delphi is easily one of the high points of a visit to Greece .

✅ I recommend this guided tour to Delphi

3. Corinth Canal

Located in south-central Greece, Corinth marks the place where the land meets the sea. The town is considered the gateway to the Peloponnese Peninsula. It’s also a perfect example of where the ancient meets the modern.

Once one of the largest and wealthiest city-states in Greece, Corinth has two major parts: one on the Corinthian Gulf and one on the Saronic Gulf. Today, you’ll find the pretty coastal city sitting alongside the site of Ancient Corinth, the hill of Acrocorinth and the stunning canal.

The beautiful Corinth Canal is one of the best day trips from Athens

One of the closer day trips from Athens, Corinth is only an hour’s drive west of the city. A lot of tours include a trip to Corinth.

But, once again, we decided to drive because those tours didn’t cover everything that we wanted to see. A lot of them just make a small photo stop at the canal.

If you’d rather not drive, this tour is by far the best .

We stopped at the Corinth Canal first. It’s still the town’s top attraction and was finished in 1893. This involved an excavation up to 80 meters in depth to create the 6.3 kilometres-long, 23-meter-wide canal. It was honestly a pretty impressive sight!

✅ I recommend this guided tour to Corinth

4. Historical Sites of Corinth

After we’d explored the canal, we headed up into the mountains to visit Ancient Corinth. A vast historical site, we were there for well over an hour wandering around the ruins of the formally impressive city and the Temple of Apollo.

The archaeological museum is also next to the site, and worth a visit to learn even more about the history.

After that, we drove up a thin, very winding path up a mountain to Acrocorinth, which translates as ‘Upper Corinth’. Despite it being a bit of a nail-biting journey, the castle at the top was well worth it.

The views across the city went on for miles and we learned how Acrocorinth was fortified in ancient times. Through multiple time periods, its walls are now almost 2 kilometres in length.

The path that leads to the highest point, to the former Temple of Aphrodite, has the best views. But, be warned, it’s not the easiest on your legs!

Tip: Ancient Corinth isn’t usually part of the guided tours, so if you want to visit it’s much easier to hire a car and head there yourself. You can hire a car here .

5. Arachova

Tucked away in the mountains, Arachova is a town like no other. Also commonly included on a tour stop – this is how we saw it – it’s well worth a full day trip because it’s truly beautiful and the views are equally as gorgeous.

Arachova is a beautiful Greek mountainside town

Located on the way to Delphi, nestled delicately at the foot of Mount Parnassós, it’s one of the few places in Greece that are suitable for skiing.

Because it’s located so high in the mountains, the snow creates some wonderful slopes perfect as a wintery escape for ski lovers.

Of course, it’s also suitable for people on a day trip from Athens who wish to relax or go hiking in a dreamy mountainous setting. As well as skiing, simply walking around the town can provide a delightful escape from the city centre.

The streets are hilly and winding, looping around the small shops, boutique hotels and slopeside houses.

Beautiful views over the mountainside setting or Arrachova

Athens locals come here on weekend breaks to escape the city for a while. Enjoy hot snacks and fruity drinks in cafés, or traditional kafeneia (coffee shops), or enjoy the surprisingly vibrant nightlife after dark.

6. Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion can be found about 70 km southeast of Athens, on the southernmost tip of the Attica peninsula. The Temple of Poseidon there is its most popular attraction. Many tour operators run both daytime and sunset trips there .

Legend has it that this is the site where Aegeus, King of Athens, fell into the sea because he believed he had lost his son. The Athenians later named the sea after him and, even today, it is known as the Aegean Sea.

One of the best day trips from Athens at sunset, is Cape Sounion

Considered one of the must-do day trips from Athens, Cape Sounion is famous both for its historical significance, remains that date from as early as the 8th century BC, and for its beautiful sunset.

The sunset is the main reason that the tours operate at dusk. The views across the Aegean are breathtaking! If sunset views are one of the things you look for in a Greek getaway, you won’t want to miss this.

✅ I recommend this tour to Cape Sounion

Nature lovers, history fans, photographers or anyone who loves a one-of-a-kind view will adore Meteora. The World Heritage Site is one of the most impressive regions of Greece and even one of the most beautiful towns in Europe.

Studies show that the staggered rocks were first formed 60 million years ago. They have been battered into their current shape by both weather and earthquakes. Perched on top of those dramatic rocks are the monasteries.

Built thousands of years ago they have remained untouched to this day. The rocks are a wonderful symbol of Greece’s past. Consequently, Meteora attracts thousands of tourists, many of whom are on Athens day tours, every year.

The rocks at Meteora are really beautiful

Of the 25 monasteries that were originally built, only 6 are still operational and open for the public to visit. The largest – the Grand (Megalo) Monastery – has unique architecture and breathtaking views of the valley below.

As well as monasteries, you can also visit Meteora for hiking, rock climbing and some stunning photo opportunities.

The best way to reach Meteora from Athens is by train. You could also book one of the day tours from Athens. However, unlike the other tours where you are picked up from your hotel, many of these involve you getting a train too as it’s simply the easiest way to get there.

The tour guide will then pick you up from the train station at the other end.

✅ I recommend this one-day tour from Athens to Meteora

In the northeast of the Peloponnese, Mycenae is located around 120 kilometres southwest of Athens. It’s one of the most important and well-known UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the region and is located close to Nafplio town.

There are once again plenty of tours from Athens , but we visited Mycenae by car before driving on to Nafplion.

Mycenae is one of the most popular historical day trips from Athens

Dating back to the Late Bronze Era, this was the town of the legendary King Agamemnon. He was the leader of the Greeks during the Trojan War.

The incredible historical site of Mycenae

According to myth, the huge surrounding walls were constructed by Cyclops. The area was centred around the military and hence was the setting for many Greek tragedies, especially ones regarding the King and his family.

Walk around the ancient site of Mycenae, you’ll find a small museum and several impressive tombs. The most photographed attractions of the area are the Lion Gate (above) and the Treasury of Atreus.

The site is also located on a hilltop with some pretty views of the surrounding countryside.

✅ I recommend this small group tour of Mycenae

9. Lake Marathon

For a step away from ancient history and back to nature, a trip to Lake Marathon is relaxing and the perfect spot to unwind. People frequently make day trips from Athens to the lake to escape the bustling city life. It’s ideal if you have an extended stay in the city.

About an hour’s drive from Athens, Marathon is a water supply reservoir embedded in a beautiful mountainous area. The Dam was constructed in the 1930s and served as Athens’ main water source for decades.

Lake Marathon is a pretty and relaxing break from the city

Nowadays, the most popular thing to do at Lake Marathon is simply to go for a relaxing walk and drink in the gorgeous views. The lake is a mile across, so, plenty of walkways have been constructed so people can enjoy the lake from all angles.

It’s also a great spot for bird-watching with hawks, owls and water birds to spot. Be sure to bring your binoculars!

As well as the lake, you can also find an archaeological site in Marathon and a museum. Both are worth checking out if you also enjoy a little history. There are boardwalks, cosy cafes and restaurants, making it the perfect way to spend a day.

10. Eleusis

Located about 32 minutes from Athens, Eleusis is a small town with a big history. It’s located right between Athens and Corinth.

So, it might be possible to combine the two on one of your day trips from Athens. A truly fascinating town, it’s received recognition as the European Capital of Culture for 2021 ! And here’s why:

It was once home to the Eleusinian Mysteries. According to legend, these were secret religious rites created by Demeter, the goddess of harvest and agriculture. They represented fertility, immortality and regeneration.

The curious part is, that even though thousands took part in the rituals, hardly anyone revealed what actually took place. It is said that speaking of the rituals was punishable by death. Today, you can still visit the site where the Mysteries took place, the archaeological site and the museum.

If that wasn’t enough, Eleusis was also one of the 5 sacred cities of Ancient Greece. Its treacherous port is known as the Graveyard of Ships as it has dozens of shipwrecks.

Plus, in the archaeological site of Eleusis, there is a mystical cavern where, according to legend, the god of the Underworld, Hades, was seen.

So, if you’re interested in this fascinating town, I’d recommend adding it to your list of Athens day trips! To get there, you can either take a bus, which will take around 50 min or drive, which will take around 30.

11. Hydra, Poros and Aegina Islands

One of the most popular island day trips from Athens is to the idyllic islands of Hydra, Poros and Aegina.

Hydra is famous for its architecture, streets of the old town which are scattered with boutique shops and traditional tavernas, and cosy little beach coves. There’s not too much sightseeing on this little Greek island.

But hiking one of the many walking paths to spectacular sea views is a popular option. There are also bastions, a few museums and monasteries to explore.

For Greek island hopping from Athens, take a trip to Hydra

Poros is similar, with some stunning beach views and water sports. The picturesque waterfront promenade has views across the Pelopenses mountains.

You can visit the archaeological museum or Poros, climb the whitewashed clock tower, or visit the remains of the ancient temple of Poseidon.

Aegina features a few more archaeological sites that fans of ancient Greece will love. The Archaeological Museum of Aegina was the first museum to be established in the modern Greek State. It is full of interesting artefacts.

You can also visit the stunning Monastery of Agios Nektarios and visit the archaeological site of Kolona. The Temple of Aphaia is also close by, which is older than the Parthenon in Athens.

There are several day trips and organised tours to these islands that embark from Athens daily. But, if you’d like a little more freedom on your trip, you could also take a ferry which departs from Piraeus port almost 5 times per day. The ferry takes about 2 hours.

✅ I recommend this tour to Hydra, Poros and Aegina

Popular among both wine lovers and fans of ancient Greek history alike, Nemea is one of the most popular destinations in the Peloponnese.

An hour and a half southwest of Athens, past Corinth, Nemea is home to the largest single vineyard in all of Greece and produces world-renowned wine.

It also has a captivating history. Legend has it that Nemea is where Hercules performed his first labour. It is said that he killed the Nemean lion that ravaged the area at the time and terrified the locals. It was after this, that he was known as a hero.

The fascinating historical site of Nemea, Greece

Today, you can visit the archaeological site that depicts this. It is also the site of the revival of The Nemea Games. This was a sporting event in ancient Nemea that used to take place every two years (in turn with the Olympic Games) since 573 BC.

You can visit the 40,000-capacity stadium where these games took place, along with the archaeological museum and temple of Nemeios Zeus.

13. Epidaurus

For one of the most popular and largest Ancient Theatres in Greece with a seriously impressive view, Epidaurus is one of the most wonderful day trips from Athens. On the northeastern side of the Peloponnese, in the region of Argolis,

Epidaurus is mostly known and visited for the ancient theatre. And trust me, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is well worth a visit. However, the nearby town is also lovely and shouldn’t be forgotten.

One of the most beautiful theatres in Greece, Epidaurus is one of the best day trips from Athens

There are pretty villages and beaches close to the ancient site, including a charming fishing village with a couple of traditional taverns specialising in fresh, local seafood, and some small, scenic beaches.

In summer, because of the stunning acoustics of the theatre, it is still used today for live performances. It’s worth checking out the nearby archaeological museum and healing Sanctuary of Asklepios too.

Epidaurus is often a stop on the Athens to Delphi tour . But to properly spend time in the area, you can drive there from Athens. The drive is roughly 2 hours but can be combined with a road trip to Nafplio or Mycenae.

However, when you get there, it’s one of the most wonderful day trips from Athens. The views across the mountains really are the cherry on top.

✅ I recommend this trip to Epidaurus

14. Parnitha National Park

If you enjoy hiking and exploring the outdoors , a day trip to Parnitha National Park will be right up your street. Situated about 30km north of Athens, this beautiful park offers countless trails and chances to explore the mountains in Greece.

This is an excellent way to see a side of Greece that not many non-locals get to see as tourists typically head south to the Greek islands instead.

Visiting Parnitha National Park is actually pretty easy from Athens too. The drive takes one hour and the roads are pretty straightforward – once again, if you do this, I recommend hiring a car .

Alternatively, you can take a bus (the Green Line) to Nea Ionia. From there, catch the bus straight to Thrakomakedones.

Parnitha National Park is one of the top day trips from Athens

Once you arrive, there’s plenty to do. The park boasts an extensive network of well-marked hiking trails, suitable for hikers of all levels. However, if you don’t fancy hiking up the entire mountain, you could always take the cable car instead.

This cable car is free, but it will actually take you to a casino, instead of to the mountain itself, but just exit the casino and you’ll be able to get back to nature. Alternatively, you could stay at the casino, play a few games, or grab some food with a view.

If you enjoy nature and the outdoors, this is an excellent day trip from Athens. I also think it’s a wonderful way to see a different side of Greece and is well worth a trip.

How do you get from Athens to Delphi?

There are a few ways to get from Athens to Delphi; the most popular is to go via a tour company. There are plenty of tours that operate between the two destinations and the tours are usually well-organised and informative:

However, if you’d like a little more control over your time there, you can also get from Athens to Delphi in a couple of other ways:

Bus – To get to Delphi from Athens, you’ll need to head to the Liossion bus station and catch the KTEL bus. Make sure to check that the direction is towards Delphi. The bus trip from Athens to Delphi will take about 3 hours . To book bus tickets, click here.
Car – To get from Athens to Delphi by car you have to take the National Greek Road from Athens to Lamia. Then, you follow the directions to Levadia and continue towards Delphi. The journey is about 181 km and will take you around 2.5 hours . To hire a car, click here .

Athens to Delphi is a great Athens day trip

Can you do day trips to the islands from Athens?

Absolutely! Athens serves as an excellent hub for exploring the Greek islands on day trips. The city’s proximity to the Aegean Sea makes it the perfect place to start your island-hopping adventure.

There are several islands that you can easily visit within a day from Athens, including Aegina, Poros, Hydra , and Spetses.

The beaches of Mykonos, one of the Greek islands

Ferries and hydrofoils depart from the bustling Piraeus Port, which is just a short journey from the city centre. Each island has its unique charm and character, from Aegina’s historical sites to Hydra’s car-free tranquillity.

The short travel time allows you to maximize your island exploration without committing to an overnight stay, perfect if you want to visit a few different islands during your time in Athens.

You can even do day trips to some of the most popular islands from Athens, like Mykonos and Santorini. However, I’d personally allow a few days to explore these, as the travel time is further.

How do you get from Athens to Santorini?

One of the most popular of the Greek islands, people often want to make the trip from Athens to Santorini (or Mykonos) as part of their island-hopping journey.

Santorini is a gorgeous Greek island and a wonderful day trip from Athens

There are several ways to get between the two:

The most common ferry departs at 7:30 am daily and runs between Athens and Santorini. This is the Blue Star route.

towards the peak season, starting in early April, additional SeaJets and Golden Star Ferries also operate high-speed services between Athens and the island. Ferries take roughly 5 hours . To book a ferry, click here .

The flight between Athens and Santorini is also simple to book and take. Between June and September, there are typically over 15 flights per day with RyanAir, EasyJet, Aegean Airlines, and Olympic Air.

Be aware that, due to the difference in speed, flights often sell out much quicker than ferries. So be sure to book yours in advance to guarantee a seat. The flight will take about 50 minutes . To book cheap flights, click here .

If you’re considering day trips from Athens and have always wanted to see Santorini, then you’ll also be pleased to know that 2-day tours are also available. This hassle-free tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in both Athens and Santorini. There are also 5-day tours to Santorini and Mykonos.

A 3-star hotel for one night in Santorini is included in the price with free breakfast. You’ll have a full day of free time to explore Santorini which is enough to see Fira, Oia, Imerovigli, a couple of wineries, and the Akrotiri historical site.

If you don’t want the hassle of arranging this yourself, this is a great option, but if you prefer more time, I recommend the first two.

✅ I recommend this tour from Athens to Santorini

What are the best day trips from Athens for couples?

If you’re in Greece as a couple , there are plenty of day trips from Athens that would be suitable. Of course, this all depends on what you’re into. If you love history, then the Athens to Delphi route is easily the best option.

Whereas, if you’re more of a fan of idyllic islands, beautiful beaches and boat tours, then a relaxing trip to Hydra would be more up your street.

Final Thoughts on the Best Day Trips from Athens

Overall, Athens is a wonderful city to visit . Not only is the history in the city itself absolutely fantastic, but there are so many wonderful places within an easy day trip to Athens that can turn your trip from a short city break, into a week-long summer holiday!

You can visit so much from mountain tip historical sites to stunning Greek islands. So, if you thought a trip to Athens was just about the Acropolis, I hope you have been very pleasantly surprised!

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
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GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. But, I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

Alice Smith is a full-time travel blogger and content creator and the founder of Adventures of Alice. Following an unexpected redundancy from her career as a Content Marketing Specialist, she embraced her passion for exploration and turned her hobby of travel blogging into a full-time career.

From her roots near Cambridge, UK, she's ventured to over 30 countries since 2016. With a passion for the outdoors and a knack for finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, Alice is on a mission to show that budget travel can still be luxurious and that every destination, no matter how touristy, holds hidden gems.

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One Comment

Thank you for these great suggestions. I’m going to Athens and Santorini at the end of December and was looking for some great day trips. Much appreciated.

15 Best Day Trips from Athens

Athens is not only the national capital of Greece but also the cultural and spiritual one.

The stage for the many myths and legends that have emerged from Ancient Greece, it’s a hub of tourist activity, as well as world-class Greek cuisine.

The countryside surrounding Athens is no less spectacular, with temples and monasteries peppering the Mediterranean landscape and some unimaginably beautiful beaches and stretches of coast lining emerald and turquoise waters.

On day trips from the capital, you’ll be teleported back in time to the age of Gods and Goddesses and heroes that immortalised Greek mythology in the history books with a sense of adventure rarely found in other European countries.

Let’s have a look at the best day trips from Athens :

One of the most popular trips to take from Athens is the excursion to Delphi, and it’s easy to see why.

Considered by many as the crux of Ancient Greek history, Delphi is a UNESCO World Heritage marvel and is bursting at the seams with archaeological sites, each more captivating than the last.

The most famous of these is The Oracle of Delphi, which can be perfectly complemented by a trip to the Delphi Archaeological Museum.

Here, you’ll come across intriguing artefacts like the Sphinx of Naxos and learn about the area and its undeniable cultural significance.

For something a little different, swing by the town of Arachova on your way back to the capital – some say it’s like crossing a threshold into the Swiss Alps, so be prepared for a surprise.

Legend tells of the ancient Mycenaean civilization that was written about by Homer and other distinguished Greek authors, where archaeological objects date back to 7000 BC. If you’re prepared to undertake the 120 km journey from Athens to get there, you won’t be disappointed with what you find.

The “City of Agamemnon” is a hotbed of near-prehistoric sites and artefacts including the remains of palaces and fortress walls and most notably, the Tomb of Agamemnon.

Located in a hilly area of the Peloponnese, the grassy expanses of the Mediterranean countryside are also a marvel to behold.

If you have time, try not to miss the nearby sanctuary of Asklepios in Epidaurus.

Venture out to where the land meets the sea and where another ancient site lies, the city of Corinth.

The narrow stretch of land that connects mainland Greece to the Peloponnese offers unbeatable views of Corinth Canal impossible to find elsewhere.

Combine a tour of the fascinating ruins with a day by the sea, where after a morning of exploring you can take a refreshing dip in the Saronic Gulf.

4. Cape Sounio

What better place to have built the majestic Temple of Poseidon than in Cape Sounio, overlooking the Saronic Gulf? Take in the breathtaking views of the Athens Riviera and relish some incredible photo opportunities along the way before even arriving at your destination.

Once you reach the ancient worship site, you’ll have the chance to explore the monument dedicated to one of the most revered figures in Greek mythology as well as enjoy sweeping views of the Aegean Sea and the Saronic Gulf.

Make sure you set aside a couple of extra hours to relax afterwards as there’s a nearby beach where you can soak in the emerald waters of the Aegean.

5. Attic Riviera (Coast of Apollo)

Vouliagmeni, Apollo Coast (Athenian Riviera)

If you’re after something a little different than temples and archaeological ruins then you can head to the Coast of Apollo, a pristinely beautiful stretch of coastline between Athens and Cape Sounion that has many attractions to offer other than the usual ancient sites.

Heading down the coast, you’ll find a vast array of golf courses, beautiful beaches and marinas filled with luxury yachts and sailing clubs.

Venture out to the sun-kissed expanses of the Riviera and indulge in some of the finer things in life.

For the record, if do happen to be seeking more archaeological adventures, the Coast of Apollo is also full of them.

A truly fantastical dreamscape, the mountains and boulders of Meteora offer some truly unbelievable and beautiful sights.

The captivating region is famed for its Byzantine-era monasteries that sit precariously atop rocky outcrops overlooking the hills of Thessaly.

Find out everything there is to know about why these monuments were built on the sandstone peaks and why their inhabitants chose to live their monastic lives there.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 14th Century is a must-see, only if you’re into history, but also as an architectural and cultural marvel.

7. Hydra Island

A perfectly picturesque escape from the capital comes in the form of exploring a beautifully rustic island a mere 2 hours away from Piraeus Port in Athens.

Hydra Island is popular among everyone from artists to travellers and food lovers and is well-known for allowing no cars or motorcycles of any kind.

As a result, it makes for an irresistibly pleasant day out exploring the cosmopolitan streets of rustic buildings built into the many hillsides.

Hydra Island has everything on offer from abandoned churches and secluded beaches, so get ready for a blissful day of wandering around finding your ideal activity.

8. The Monastery of Dafní

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Monastery of Dafní is an easy 10km away from the center of Athens and was originally a pagan shrine that was then converted into a Christian monastery and then to the present monastery in 1080.

The building is a must-see for its exquisitely ornate furnishings on the interior, which include 11th Century mosaics that grant it the reputation of being one of the most magnificent Byzantine churches in Greece.

9. Kaisariani Monastery

This 11th Century church is one of the most serene and tranquil places you can visit from Athens, not simply because of it’s beautiful courtyard with glittering spring water flowing from a rams head – but because of it’s truly stunning and peaceful surroundings.

The area known as Forest Park is littered with cypress trees, shrubs and Mediterranean flowers, making it an ideal place for reflection and clarity.

The park even has a botanical garden containing flora native to Greece, so once you’ve visited the monastery you can spend some time strolling amongst the many colours of Greece’s nature.

10. Lake Marathon

Nearby to the village of Marathon, famed for a number of historic occasions including the site of great battles between Greeks and Persians hundreds of years before Christ, lies the beautiful and peaceful Lake Marathon.

Formed by a dam used to create a reservoir, the lake cannot be swam or sailed in but the surrounding shores could not be more perfect as a place to enjoy an outdoor picnic or walk in.

The pine forests around the lake stretch for miles, so there’s no shortage of mini hikes you can take should the mood strike.

11. Mount Parnis

For a more endurance worthy hike, Mount Parnis offers an idyllic escape into the mountainscapes surrounding Athens that can be reached by road.

Soak in the pristine pine forest scenery as you ascend up many sharp turns and bends to reach the summit, or alternatively park at the mountain hut and begin the ascent by foot.

The beautiful hike will take you past the Chapel of Ayía Triáda where you can stop and explore before continuing the climb to the scenic peak.

12. Eleusis

For an insight into some clandestine history, there’s no better day trip than the infamous Eleusinian Mysteries, a series of secret religious sites that contain ancient sanctuaries dating back to 1400 BC. The mysteries themselves revolve around various rituals that were performed in honour of Greek deities and involved processions, ritual baths, fasting and to this day unknown incantations.

A must-see ruin is the Sanctuary of Demeter, one of the main protagonists in the story behind the inspiration of the buildings.

13. Attica Countryside

Otherwise simply known as the area surrounding the city of Athens, the Attica countryside is an expanse of land bursting with treasures both contemporary and ancient.

For archaeological wonders, head to the Temple of Artemis, renowned for its role in the life of religious Athenian women.

Each of these sites almost always caters to a specific religious group of people and this temple is particularly fascinating in its portrayal of their life and devotion to the Goddess of childbirth.

One for the wine lovers, Nemea is Athens’ very own wine country, boasting traditional methods that hark back to ancient times and give the wine a distinctive flavour.

As you might expect from wine country, the landscape is magnificent and beautifully Mediterranean.

On your visit, head over to a stadium where the Nemean Games were held centuries ago and have recently been re-established.

Visits to various wineries are also a must, though the one closest to the stadium is a tourist favourite and highly reputable.

15. The Temple of Apollo

One of the furthest trips you can take from Athens at a lengthy 300 km, lies an archaeological site.

The Temple of Apollo sits in an impossibly picturesque location on the shores of Lake Trichonis, some kilometres away from the town of Thermos.

The temple represents the devotion of the followers of the Sun God Apollo and is a testament to the architectural prowess of the builders at the time.

15 Best Day Trips from Athens:

Cape Sounio
Attic Riviera (Coast of Apollo)
Hydra Island
The Monastery of Dafní
Kaisariani Monastery
Lake Marathon
Mount Parnis
Attica Countryside
The Temple of Apollo

12 BEST Day Trips from Athens, Greece

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Looking for the best day trips from Athens? From visiting Parnitha National Park to ancient UNSECO World Heritage sites, check out these amazing trips!

The glorious city of Athens , named after the Greek goddess of wisdom, holds such a special place in my heart.

Sitting in the Attica region of Greece, Athens is surrounded by rugged coastlines and dramatic mountain-scapes. Add in relics of ancient history, and visiting the Greek capital is like being transported to another time.

With famous landmarks including the Parthenon and the Acropolis, and mouthwatering food on every corner, you’ll have no trouble filling several days in Athens . However, with so many incredible destinations nearby, you’ll want to add in some day trips from Athens.

Athens day trips have so much to offer (as in, SO MUCH to offer). You can go hiking through the epic landscapes of Meteora and visit the mountain top monasteries. You can explore the ruins of ancient civilisations at Delphi, Mycenae and Epidaurus. And then you can get a taste of Greek island life at Andros .

Some of these day trips are quickest by car, but I’ve included lots of activities with public transport or tour options too. Whatever your travelling style, you’re sure to find activities around Athens that suit you. So read on, and get planning the best Greek holiday ever!

If you’re staying in Athens before exploring some of these places below, check out my amazing guide to 1 day in Athens and what to eat in Athens . These guides are packed full of all the best things to do in the city!

Are you planning an amazing weekend in Athens? If so, you may want to book your hotels and tours asap to ensure availability. Here are some links to quickly help plan your trip!

Best hotels and apartments in Athens:

Gatsby Athens (top rated 5* hotel)
The Stanley (top rated 4* hotel)
Exarchia House Project (top rated 3* hotel)

Best activities and tours in Athens :

Acropolis and 6 Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket (top thing to do in Athens)
Athens: Street Food Tasting Tour
Electric Bike Tour with Acropolis Visit

Day trips from Athens, Greece

The incredible UNESCO World Heritage site of Delphi is a must do for your Athens day trips. Nestled into the side of Mount Parnassus are the 2,500 year old archaeological ruins of temple to the Greek god Apollo.

This temple was home of the oracle of Delpi. In ancient times, people would travel from far and wide to listen to the oracle speak the prophecies of Apollo.

Today, you can visit, walk around take in the majesty of the well preserved ruins. These are some of the best ruins in all of Greece – I can’t tell you how special it feels walking around here.

At just 2 hours drive away, one of the best ways of seeing Delphi for yourself is on a tour. This Delphi day trip takes care of all transport, which means you can enjoy this ancient site all to yourself.

Nafplio, the former capital of Greece , is a gorgeous medieval town. It is often claimed to be one of the prettiest towns in the whole of Greece. When you see all the cute streets you’ll quickly understand why!

Sitting on the Peloponnese peninsula, Nafplio can be reached in under two hours by car.

Spend a day winding your way through the streets and alleyways discovering neoclassical buildings. Then climb the 913 steps to the impressive baroque fortress of Palamidi, which looks out over the town.

End your day with sunset stroll along the gorgeous coastal paths around Acronafplia. Here you’ll be treated to views of Bourtzi Castle , which sits out in the water.

Lush, green mountains and valleys dotted with dramatic and monastery topped rock formations: Meteroa is just breathtaking. Come to visit the perfectly placed 13 th century monasteries and hermitages, or simply take a hike in this incredible landscape.

At 350km distance from Athens, around 4 hours drive, this is one of the furthest day trips on this list. But I couldn’t leave it off because this area is just so magnificent.

I recommend taking one of the regular Athens tours to Meteora . Not only do they take you to the best spots, you can snooze in the tour vehicle on the way there. Honestly, these type of tours really do take the stress out of doing all the driving yourself!

I went to Andros on my most recent trip to Greece and completely fell in love with the place. (If you’re looking at spending some time on the island, you can check out my guide to all the best things to do in Andros here).

With white-washed houses stacked upon hillsides overlooking deep blue waters, you’ll be hard pushed to find a more beautiful island. Rugged coastlines complete with a precariously balanced lighthouse. Clear sands to stretch out on. Andros has all the makings of a quintessential Greek island paradise.

Thanks to the network of high speed ferries , it is possible to reach Andros in just under two hours from Athens. This makes it a great choice is you’re keen to check out that Greek island life.

It is a bit of a stretch doing this as one of your Athens day trips, but it is possible. If you need any help planning this one, let me know in the comments below and I can help out!

Spend a day paying tribute to Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, by going wine tasting in Nemea. The fertile lands that surround Nemea have helped sculpt this area into a thriving wine region. The area is well known for producing deep red wines, for which they have the Nemea appellation naming rights.

Sitting 115km to the east of Athens, you can easily reach Nemea in under 1.5 hours drive.

Popular vineyards include the boutique Koroniotis Winery and Palivou Estate, which is one of the largest vineyards in the area. Pick one vineyard to visit, or better yet, book in for a wine tasting tour straight from Athens.

Nestled into the hills between Argos and Nemea, around 1.5 hours drive from Athens, you can find the fascinating archaeological site of Mycenae. Impressive in size, intricacy, condition, and age, this is said to be one of the most important ruins in the country.

This ancient walled city was a thriving hub of activity over 3,000 years ago. It is claimed to be the home of king Agamemnon, who lead the Greeks in the Trojan war.

Sites of note to look out for during your visit include the Lion Gate, the tomb of Agamemnon, the grave circle, and the Treasury of Atreus.

This is easily one of the most popular day tours from Athens which takes you to Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio, so it’s a great way of visiting all three on one trip.

Slightly further afield, it is even possible to visit the incredible island of Naxos on a ( long ) day trip. Sitting to the south of Athens in the Aegean sea, gorgeous Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades islands.

One of the best things to do here is to take a hike up to the Temple of Apollo. While much of the temple has been in ruins for some time, a massive marble doorway continues to stand tall. Sunsets here are particularly stunning.

The fastest ferries will have you in Naxos in 3.5 hours from Athens. To make the most of it, take the 7am ferry over. As I said, it is a long ol day this one!

For a taste of island life much closer to home, spend a day at the picturesque island of Poros. With regular ferries from Athens that take 1 hour each way, you can easily fit this trip into an afternoon. Obviously I’d recommend spending the whole day there to really make the most of it!

Poros has wonderfully sandy beaches, crystal blue waters, and a lively seafront promenade complete with traditional taverns.

Plan to spend the day at the beach, before wining and dining in this vibrant town. You can even hire a yacht from Poros and spend your day cruising the Greek islands in style. There are also full day cruises from Athens which takes you to places like Aegina, Hydra and Poros.

Sitting on the coastline of the Corinthian Gulf is the fascinating city of Corinth. This city, originally known as New Corinth, was established in 1858 after an earthquake flattened the existing Corinth.

There is a wealth of activities to enjoy here. Sites of note to visit are the Corinth Archaeological Museum and the Ancient Corinth site, and the Acrocorinth , an impressive acropolis of ancient Corinth. Be sure to also stop by one of the seafood restaurants for dinner, where they serve up locally caught produce.

Corinth can be reached in under 2 hours by public bus. So it’s a great option for car free day trips.

Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon

For a day of picturesque views of ancient ruins and incredible coastlines the head to the stunning Cape Sounion and visit the Temple of Poseidon. Sitting on the tip of the cape, just 70km south of Athens, the Temple of Poseidon can be reached by car in just over an hour 1 hour.

The temple is believed to have been built in approximately 700 BC, and surprisingly still has many standing columns today.

Athens tours to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon leave daily. Book yourself on a small group tour and take a deep dive into ancient Greek history. For me, this is easily one of the best and easiest day trips from Athens.

Mount Parnitha

Spend a day hiking in the gorgeous natural landscapes at Mount Parnitha National Park. Situated just 30km north west of Athens, you can reach Mount Parnitha in just 1 hour’s drive, making it excellent place to visit.

The mountain is covered with thick forests and has a thriving ecosystem, home to hundreds of varieties of plants. If you’re lucky, you may spot some of the animals that call this area home, including deer and foxes.

There are also caves, monasteries, a fortress and even a casino that you can visit during your hike. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring a picnic!

Last, but by no means least, is a day trip to the ruins at Epidaurus. There are two main sites to check out here: the Sanctuary of Asclepius, which was a temple of healing; and the epic ancient theatre. Built around 300 BC, this gigantic open air theatre can seat 14,000 and is still in use today!

The town, which was named after a son of Apollo, Epidauros, can be reached in a 2 hour drive from Athens. There are also regular Athens tours to Epidaurus, many of which combine it with a visit to Mycenae.

So there you have it, my favourite day trips from Athens. What are the best Athens day trips you’ve been on? Let me know in the comments below.

Looking for some of the best night spots in Athens ? Then click on my guide and check out what spots to hit up!

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About the Author

Chelsey has lived, worked and studied across 9 countries, and has travelled in 40+. When she is not laying on a beach in Thailand or eating her way across India, she can be found discovering hidden corners of London.

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40 Best Day Trips from Athens (plus Tours)

All of these 40 best day trips from Athens are fantastic!

So my recommendation is to make sure you go on one day trip from Athens at the very least if you’re lucky enough to be in Greece.

Since there are plenty of great day trips from Athens to choose from, deciding on only one day trip is going to be extremely difficult.

This is where looking at my top recommendations regarding the best day trips from Athens , could help you to pick the best day trip/s for you.

All of these day trips from Athens look great, so any decision you make isn’t going to be easy.

It’s almost like you need a whole week in Athens just to go on day trips, and after writing this up I’m actually convinced of it.

Planning day trips from Athens

Greece’s very best day trips can be done in a couple of different ways, either by planning the trip yourself or going on an organized tour from Athens .

My own preference is to plan day trips independently mainly because organized day tours and half-day tours generally try and pack a lot in, and they often run on tight schedules.

It often means that you don’t get much free time to do your own thing at certain places, which I highly value.

However, on occasion, an organized tour from Athens would still be a great option, especially if you don’t want to worry about transportation and the logistics of getting to your destination.

Just meet at the place where your tour starts, and off you go, which is super easy.

Even I would prefer to go on an organized day tour for some of these day trips, especially for the longer day trips that cover huge distances.

Full-day tours from Athens (including half-day tours)

There are plenty of enjoyable full-day tours from Athens, as well as half-day tours from Athens to think about.

So I’m confident that one of these day trips from Athens will attract your attention.

You will also find links to a variety of tour operators in Athens in this list, which will show you some of the best day tours available from Athens (Greece), so check them out.

Many of the tours from Athens are highly rated, so I’m confident that if you decide to take a chance and go with one of the organized tours, you will have a great time!

After all, this is a great selection of day trips from Athens. You’ll even find a few hidden gems in Athens, Greece . So there is something special for everyone here.

Day Trips from Athens (Rated from Best to Worst)

Most of my attention is focused on the top 20 best day trips from Athens .

However, all forty of these great day trips from Athens on this list have something going for them.

To make things a bit more interesting, I have even arranged the 20 best day trips from Athens from best to worst, based on my preferences.

Consider number 1 as being the ultimate day trip from Athens, followed by number 2 as the second-best day trip from Athens, and so on.

Keep in mind that all of these day trips from Athens are incredible experiences.

No matter what position a day trip occupies on the list of 20 best day trips and tours from Athens, rest assured that all of them are great.

Anyway, it all depends on what interests you most, and how you want to spend your day in Greece at that time. It may be as simple as wanting to visit a beach.

I would visit all of these awesome attractions in Greece given the chance since all of these day trips and day tours from Athens look special to me.

The 20 best day trips from Athens

Before you look at all of the best day trips from Athens, let me give you some great advice.

Remember, it is better to go on a day trip somewhere than to never go at all.

It happens to many of us. We would love to visit a place for a longer time, so we don’t bother going on a day trip, and then we never end up going at all.

Just go, even if it is only for one day.

Let’s begin by taking a look at my number one day trip from Athens, a visit to one of the most beautiful cities in Greece, Nafplio, which was once the capital of Greece. It’s a dream destination!

1. Nafplio and the Fortress of Palamidi

Visiting Nafplio would have to be one of the best day trips from Athens, if not the best.

From Greek mythology, Nauplius and Amymone, are said to have founded Nafplio.

Amymone was one of the Danaides, and one of the fifty daughters of King Danaus, whereas Nauplius (The Navigator) was the son of the sea-god Poseidon.

That’s enough to get me excited!

Nafplio makes for an excellent day trip from Athens. One reason why is that you can get to Nafplio before midday.

It gives you the whole afternoon to visit some of the main attractions in Nafplio.

Visiting the Fortress of Palamidi is a must-do experience. Palamidi Castle, another name it goes by will also provide you with extraordinary views of the surrounding coastline of Nafplio.

The Venetian castle located in the middle of Nafplio harbor is also worth a visit. It is known as the castle of Bourtzi .

History buffs will no doubt want to go for a wander through the Archaeological Museum of Nauplion . So it’s going to be pretty hard to get bored in Nafplio.

Athenians love Nafplio, and so do most tourists who have visited this beautiful coastal city.

Nafplio is considered to be one of the most romantic cities in Greece and is often said to be the most beautiful city in Greece.

It was even once the capital of Greece, from 1827 until 1834, so it has that extra historical pulling power.

You can easily spend a few nights in Nafplio. If you do, it’s a great place to use as a base for further exploration of the Peloponnese Peninsula.

However, don’t pass up an opportunity to visit Naflpio by going on a day trip if you only have a limited number of days available in Greece.

You definitely won’t regret it, but chances are you will if you never go.

How to get from Athens to Nafplio:

By car to Nafplio: Nafplio is about a 2-hour drive from Athens since it is approximately 140 km away.

You will have to pay road tolls from Athens to Nafplio. However, the tolls are relatively cheap in Greece. A tollbooth attendant will collect a cash payment. Take cash with you, since they don’t take cards.

By bus to Nafplio: The bus from Athens Kifisou (Kifissos) Bus Terminal to Nafplio takes around 2 to 2.5 hours. The bus leaves from Kifissos Bus Terminal (KTEL Bus Station A).

This bus station is situated on a highway in the north-western part of Athens. The closest metro stop is “Agios Antonios.” After reaching it, walk for about 15 minutes from the metro stop to get to the bus terminal.

You can also access Kifissos Bus Terminal via a city bus from Omonia Square or by taking a taxi. Note: Bus schedules are fewer on Sundays and holidays.

By train to Nafplio: The route does NOT have a train connection from Athens.

By ferry to Nafplio: It will take between 3-5 hours if you take a ferry from Piraeus port. However, it isn’t a direct route, and it will require other transportation along the way.

Firstly, take a ferry from Piraeus to the towns of Ermioni or Porto Heli. Note: You can get to Piraeus port from central Athens by using the Athens Metro or by taxi.

Once you arrive, you will then need to take a bus to the town of Kranidi. After that, you can catch another bus which will take you to Nafplio.

Nafplio tour recommendations:

Athens: Full Day Trip to Nafplio and Ancient Epidaurus
From Athens: Bus Trip to Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio
Nafplio: City Walking Tour

Many artists and writers from all over the world have based themselves on the island of Hydra at one time.

There must be some magic in the air for the island to have attracted them. I guess the only way to find out why is to visit Hydra for yourself.

No cars are allowed on the island, so it is extra peaceful. What this means is that you’ll have to explore Hydra on foot or by getting a ride on a donkey.

Hydra island became well known after the adventure/romance movie Boy on a Dolphin , which starred Sophia Loren in 1957.

It is one of the most famous movies filmed in Greece . You can even visit a statue showing a boy on a dolphin on the slopes of the island.

Visiting Hydra makes for a perfect day trip from Athens.

Hydra is a fabulous Greek island to visit since it is relatively close to Athens. It is one of Greece’s most popular destinations for this reason.

You can get a good taste of Hydra in one day, so you’d be crazy not to visit Hydra if you’re in Athens and you have the time available.

How to get from Athen to Hydra:

By ferry to Hydra: The ferry to Hydra will take approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from Athens (Piraeus port). The first ferry from Athens to Hydra leaves at about 8 am.

Hydra tour recommendations:

From Athens: Full-Day Cruise to Aegina, Poros and Hydra
Full-day Tour of the Saronic Islands from Athens

3. Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon

Also called Sounio .

The bonus is that by making your way to the ancient Greek temple of Poseidon at Sounio, you will get to see the Athens Riviera along the way.

The incredible temple of Poseidon was made entirely from white marble. It overlooks the sea at the end of Cape Sounion, situated about 70 km (43 miles) southeast of Athens on the southernmost point of Attica.

If you visit the temple of Poseidon, don’t leave Cape Sounion before sunset to really enhance the experience. The sunsets are supposed to be truly magical at this spot.

In my opinion, this would have to be the best half-day trip from Athens. I’d go there in the afternoon, in readiness to take a few photos while the sun sets later in the evening.

You can also visit the organized beach of Aegeon hotel with beach umbrellas underneath the temple. So beach lovers can make the most of a day trip.

You will have to pay a small fee to enter the archaeological site, which includes the temple of Poseidon. Keep in mind, last entry is about 20-30 minutes before sunset.

Beaches at Sounio

Cape Sounio beach – only has one beach canteen
Grecotel Beach Cape Sounio – Beach club

The Grecotel has two beaches. The most beautiful is the one facing southeast.

How to get to Cape Sounion from Athens:

By bus to Cape Sounion: The bus from KTEL Attika Buses station located in Pedion Areos can take you to Sounio. It will take about 2 hours.

By car (or taxi) to Cape Sounion: It will take a good hour’s drive from the center of Athens since it is a 70 km drive.

From Athens, follow the road of Apollo along the Saronic Gulf leading to Cape Sounion, which is dominated by the temple of Poseidon.

Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon tour recommendations:

Athens: Sunset Trip to Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon
Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounion Tour: From Athens
From Athens: Sea Kayak Adventure to Cape Sounion

4. Mount Olympus And Dion Full-Day Tour

Climbing Mount Olympus in Greece is one of the best things I have ever done in Greece.

If you want to climb Mount Olympus and reach Greece’s highest peak, the biggest problem you’ll face is that you need at least a minimum of 2 days to do it.

The reason why is that you need half a day to get from Athens to Litochoro (about 5 hours), a town situated at the foot of Mount Olympus, and a gateway town to climbing the highest peak.

Once you arrive, you could set straight off to climb Mount Olympus, but you will only be able to reach one of the high altitude refuges (places to stay) on Mount Olympus.

The next day you could ascend to the very top of Mount Olympus and theoretically make it back down to Litochoro.

Once you do that, you can then catch a train back to Athens in the late afternoon.

I don’t recommend this plan, though, mainly because it would feel way too rushed. In my opinion, you need at least three days in the Mount Olympus area to fully appreciate it.

That said, if you’re not fussed about climbing Mount Olympus, why not consider going on a 13-hour tour of Mount Olympus and Dion instead.

Your full-day train trip to Olympus from Athens begins at the Athens Railway Station, also known as Larissa Station, at 9:30 am.

You board the morning train to Katerini and enjoy a memorable day trip! Make sure that you arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.

Prepare to spend most of your time on the train during the day trip, but at least you’ll have a few hours around the Mount Olympus region, exploring fascinating places such as Dion and the Platamonas Castle.

Note: Entrance fees are required for Dion Archaeological Site & Platamonas Castle .

Getting to the Mount Olympus region:

You could organize your own day trip. Just catch the train and then make your way to Litochoro, Dion, or Platamonas Castle. Catch taxis around to other places to make things a bit easier once there. However, going on a tour would probably be a better option.

Mount Olympus tour recommendations:

From Athens: Train Trip with Guided Tour to Mount Olympus

Visiting Delphi is easily one of the very best day trips from Athens.

There are so many things to see and do in Delphi , but one day in Delphi will allow you to cram a lot in.

I would personally recommend staying for at least one night in Delphi, but don’t let that stop you from visiting Delphi if you only have one day available.

You will get to see key sites such as the Temple of Apollo, the Ancient Theater and Stadium of Delphi, as well as the Sanctuary of Athena Pronea, including the Tholos of Delphi.

You will also get a chance to visit the Archaeological Museum, and you’ll be able to walk through the main street of Delphi town and window shop.

Going on a day trip to Delphi is a winning move if you haven’t been there before.

You can also combine a trip to Delphi to include a quick visit to the Sanctuary of Eleusis and the Archeological Museum of Thebes .

How to get to Delphi from Athens:

By car to Delphi: Athens to Delphi is about 164 km away. The drive there will take between 2.5 to 3 hours.

Private car transfer from Athens to Delphi: Why not hire a driver to take you there in their private vehicle? It sounds like a good option. Consider using Mydaytrip for a private transfer.

By bus to Delphi: The bus will take about 3 hours to reach Delphi. I have visited Delphi by bus, and it was ok. Buses run about five times daily.

The bus from Athens to Delphi leaves from KTEL Bus Station B in Liosion, situated in the northern part of Athens. It takes about a ten-minute walk from the “Agios Nikolaos” stop when using the Athens metro.

Delphi tour recommendations:

Athens: Delphi Guided Day Trip with Pickup & Optional Lunch
From Athens: Full-Day Bus Trip to Delphi & Arachova
Delphi Full-Day Tour from Athens
Delphi Archaeological Site Guided Walking Tour

Aegina is another Saronic island, the same as Hydra, Spetses, Agistri, and Poros.

The Greek island is extremely popular as a weekend getaway, plus there are a couple of fascinating ancient sites on the island to explore.

The Temple of Apollo in Aegina is only a short 10-minute walk from the main port of Aegina in Aegina town. You can even see it when you arrive at the port.

You also have to visit the delightful Doric Temple of Aphaia , one of the main attractions in Aegina. It is of great interest to many tourists.

How to get to Aegina Island:

By ferry to Aegina – There are about 15 daily ferry crossings from the port of Piraeus in Athens to Aegina. Ferry rides to Aegina take about 40 minutes to just over an hour.

Aegina tour recommendations:

From Athens: Full-Day Cruise to Aegina, Poros, and Hydra
Athens: Guided Day Trip to Aegina Island

Mycenae is associated with the Greek king Agamemnon, who played a significant part in the Trojan war.

The Lion Gate marks the entrance to the fortified citadel of Mycenae. Walking through this impressive gate alone would have to make this one of the best day trips from Athens.

How to get to Mycenae from Athens:

Driving a car to Mycenae: The distance between Athens and Mycenae is about 130 km.

To get to Mycenae from Athens, follow the Greek National Road from Corinth to Tripolis. It will take about 1 hour 30 minutes to get there.

After the Corinth canal, follow the route towards Nafplion and Mycenae.

Bus trip to Mycenae: Buses link Mycenae with Nafplion, Argos, and Athens. The bus will take about the same time as driving from Athens to Mycenae.

Mycenae tour recommendations:

Argolis: Full-Day Tour in Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio
Mycenae and Epidaurus: Full-Day Tour from Athens
Day Tour to Mycenae and Epidaurus with Lunch

I have included Meteora in the top 10 best day trips from Athens because I think taking one glimpse of Meteora is all you need to be glad you went.

Visiting Meteora, a land filled with incredible rocky mountain formations will feel quite rushed.

It doesn’t matter though because I’m sure a day trip to Meteora would be worth it.

Imagine taking in some of the incredible views on offer, as well as the photo opportunities arising from being in such a beautiful part of Greece.

How to get to Meteora from Athens:

Driving to Meteora from Athens: Meteora is approximately 360 km (222 miles) from Athens. It will take you about 4-5 hours to reach by car. It’s a long drive to go on, and it could take you even longer if you are a tourist attempting to do it.

I’d much prefer to go on an organized day tour to Meteora.

If I did drive to Meteora, I’d want to stay for at least three days. The reason for this is that two of those days would involve a large chunk of driving time and really, you probably need five days in Meteora to fully enjoy yourself.

So the next best thing to do would be to go on one extremely tiring day tour of Meteora.

I’m sure you’ll be exhausted by the end of it, but it should turn out to be a very memorable experience. Odds are you’ll probably want to go back to Meteora one day.

Train to Meteora: Direct trains from Athens to Meteora run frequently. Some trains, though, may require two changes.

Kalambaka is the closest town to Meteora and the last train station, so remember it. From there a taxi can take you to Meteora for a few Euro.

Meteora tour recommendations:

From Athens: Full-Day Meteora Trip by Train
From Athens: Full-Day Rail Tour to Meteora
Athens: Meteora Small-Group Day Trip & Visit to Thermopylae
Meteora: Full-Day Private Trip from Athens or Piraeus

9. Astir Beach Club

The beaches in the Greek Islands are the main drawcard for most tourists.

So why not spend an afternoon at one of the most exclusive beach clubs along the Athenian Riviera? It seems like a no-brainer to me.

And the bonus is that you may find yourself in the company of a Greek celebrity.

When you see them, you probably won’t know who they are, but you may get an inkling of their celebrity status while relaxing under your beach umbrella.

How to get to Astis Beach Club: The beach club is situated about 30 minutes from the center of Athens along the Athenian Riviera.

10. Spetses

Athenians love to visit Spetses island on the weekend, particularly during summertime.

The old port in Spetses has bars and clubs that stay open all night. This makes it the most popular nightlife spot on the island.

Some beaches in Spetses worth checking out include Agia Paraskevi and Zogeria.

Agioi Anargyroi is the largest and probably the most popular beach on the island.

Also, don’t forget to visit the beautiful cave of Bekiri. It is referred to as the cave of filmmakers and lovers due to its beautiful interior. A pathway from Agioi Anargyroi beach will lead you to the cave.

Some visitors to Spetses won’t be able to resist staying for at least one night in Spetses. If that’s the case, consider staying at the Poseidonion Grand Hotel. It’s a top choice to make.

How to get to Spetses from Athens:

By ferry: Take a dolphin from Piraeus port in Athens. Trip time is about 3 hours.

You can also get to Spetses from Hydra and Poros and some locations on the eastern coast of Peloponnese, such as Ermioni and Porto Heli.

By car from Athens to Porto Heli: Takes about 2 hours 30 minutes by car, followed by a boat (15-minute trip), a water taxi (5-minute trip), or a ferry boat.

Note: Private vehicles are not allowed on the island.

11. Lake Vouliagmeni

Lake Vouliagmeni is a mineral spa. It’s the perfect place to unwind after long tiring walks around Athens or after diving at the Blue Hole (number 39 on this list).

Lake Vouliagmeni tour:

Athens: Vouliagmeni Coastline Walking Tour and Lake Visit

How to get to Lake Vouliagmeni:

A taxi can take you from Athens to Lake Vouliagmeni in about 20 minutes.

12. Ancient Olympia

Olympia is the birthplace of the modern Olympic Games, so if you love sport, here’s a fantastic destination that should be sky high on your list of things to do in Greece.

The Olympic Games were held every four years from 776 BC to 393 AD.

Olympia was also a place of worship dedicated to the Greek God Zeus from about the 10th century BC. You will even have the opportunity to see the temple of Zeus in Olympia.

One day in Olympia will probably feel super rushed. Even so, I’m sure it would be an incredible experience to have.

How to get to Ancient Olympia:

Ancient Olympia is about 300 km from Athens. So it will take about 4 hours to get there.

You can get there by car, private transfer, bus, or by going on an organized tour.

Ancient Olympia tour recommendations:

From Athens: Full-Day Private Round Trip to Ancient Olympia
Olympia and Museum Private Guided Tour

13. Porto Heli

Porto Heli is a summer resort town on the eastern side of Peloponnese.

This summer hotspot has been called “the Hamptons of Greece.”

Top Tip: If you can afford it, stay at the modern-day Mount Olympus of glowing marble that is Amanzoe. Or see if you can’t, see if you can go there for a drink.

How To Get To Porto Heli:

By Car: You can drive to Porto Heli in approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

By Private Transfer: Athens Premier Transfers has Mercedes Benz cars/vans and Audi sedans offering comfortable and quick transfer from Athens in under three hours.

By Boat: You can reach the marina at Porto Heli via ferry from Piraeus Port in Athens. You can also reach Porto Heli via ferry with Hydra and Spetses. Another option is a private water transfer from Athens, Hydra, or Spetses arranged through Spetses Cruising.

By Helicopter: If you are exceptionally well off, you may even want to reach Amanzoe by a 20-minute helicopter via the on-site heliport.

14. Marathon

Key places to visit around Marathon include:

Marathon Archeological Museum
Marathon Battlefield
Marathon Lake
Thermopylae’s Battlefield.

If you didn’t know this already, the name given to the modern marathon running race came about due to a legend of an ancient Greek messenger who raced from Marathon to Athens, a distance of about 40 km (nearly 25 miles).

The messenger did so because of news regarding a crucial Greek victory over an invading army of Persians in 490 BC. Tragically, the messenger fell dead after announcing the message. Thus the Marathon was born.

Going on a guided tour to learn about the historical aspects of Marathon and Thermopylae would be awesome!

How to get to Lake Marathon:

Lake Marathon is situated 33 km northeast of Athens. You can get there by train, car, bus, or taxi.

Marathon and Thermopylae tour:

Marathon & Thermopylae Battlefields Private Day Tour from Athens

15. The Ancient Theater of Epidaurus

You can easily fit in a visit to Epidaurus when you visit Mycenae.

But why not go to the theater of Epidaurus to see a concert or a play? It would magnify the experience tenfold.

Tour: Mycenae and Epidaurus: Full-Day Tour from Athens

Only 11 km from Nafplio. This is the place to go if you want some beach time.

One of the best things to do in Volos is to visit Mount Pelion, a place steeped in myth and legend. You have to go there.

18. Steni Evia (the most beautiful village of Evia)

Evia is the second-largest island in Greece. Including a visit to a thriving tourist town on the second biggest island in Greece sounds good to me.

Driving to Steni would be my preferred option.

If you want to go for a great walk, head over to the forest near the village. It’s supposed to be very scenic.

The village is found at the foot of Evia’s highest point, Mt Dirfys (1,740 m / 5,709 ft).

If you prefer, you could go on a four-hour walk to the summit, where you will get incredible views over the island, the Aegean, and back over the mainland.

Make sure you bring a map with you, to make things easier.

19. Mystras and Mani

The ancient city of Mystras is an incredible Byzantine city built into a towering mountain.

The UNESCO World Heritage List described the city as a splendid complex of palaces.

A visit to Sparta to see an ancient citadel and the statue of King Leonidas is a must.

And don’t forget to visit the Archeological Museum of Sparta.

Sparta tour:

Tour: Ancient Sparta & Mystras Private Day Tour from Athens

20. Eleusis (Ancient cult mysteries)

My last pick to enter that has made it into the top 20 day trips from Athens is Eleusis.

Eleusis is only 21 km from the center of Athens. You could even walk there if you want to.

Top 10 Greek Islands within 2 hours of Athens

If you have visited all of the islands in the top 20, including Hydra, Aegina, and Spetses, then here are a few more Greek Islands to visit for day trips.

You can never get enough of the Greek Islands, even if you only get to visit the Greek island for one day.

21. Santorini

Yes, you can fly this dreamy Santorini by going on a 45-minute plane flight from Athens.

That still leaves you a decent amount of time to enjoy Santorini’s stunning clifftop views.

Here are some of the best things to do in Santorini . You may want to visit just to do one particular thing on Santorini.

Visit the Pithara waterfalls or one of the fabulous beaches for the day.

Visit Sifnos if you want to taste some yummy food and for the breathtaking scenery!

24. Evia Island

Evia is the second-largest island in Greece, so there must be lots of interesting things to see and do in Evia.

Drive there and go exploring.

Moni is covered in lush forests and populated by wild deer, peacocks, and goats.

The animals are supposed to be friendly, so don’t be surprised if they want a snack.

Poros is an island in the heart of the Saronic Gulf, close to Aegina and Agistri.

27. Agistri

Agistri is the smallest of the Saronic Islands. It’s still great for a day trip from Athens!

28. Salamina Island (Salamis)

Salamis is where the naval battle of Salamis took place in 480 BC between ancient Greek city-states and the Persian empire.

Salamis is the closest island to Athens, situated just 20 km from the small port of Perama, which is very close to the main Athenian port of Piraeus.

Ferry: Get there by ferry from the small port of Perama. Ferry time is 15 minutes.

29. Trizonia

One of Greece’s hidden gems is the island of Trizonia. I have to admit that I have never heard of this small island before, but it is supposed to be an under-the-radar paradise!

Onassis, the legendary Greek shipping magnate, wanted to buy the island, so it must be pretty good.

Kea is still untouched by mass tourism. So it could end up being your ultimate relaxing getaway.

There are four ancient cities in Kea to explore, including Ioulis, Korissia, Poiessa, and Karthaia.

Other places to visit near Athens

Here are the rest of the day trips from Athens that didn’t make it in the top 20 list.

It doesn’t matter because I’d still love to spend time at all of these places.

31. Piraeus

Most people think of Piraeus as a port, where you catch ferries to the Greek Islands. But many consider it to be a great place where you could easily spend half a day exploring the charming town.

One of the town’s biggest attractions is the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus. It is where you can see brilliant bronze statues of Apollo and Athena.

32. Ancient Corinth

You have the town of Corinth, the Corinth Canal, the Acrocorinth castle, Loutraki, and the legendary Cave of Lakes to think about seeing.

Paying tribute to Hera at the temple of Hera and pondering over Apollo at the temple of Apollo, is a must.

You also may want to see Malagavi Lighthouse, one of the oldest stone lighthouses in Greece.

I’m not sure why I didn’t include this in the top 20 day trips from Athens because a day trip to places in and around Corinth seems like it would be an incredible day trip to experience.

Corinth tour recommendations:

Ancient Corinth Guided Tour from Athens
Corinth Half-Day Small Group Tour from Athens
From Athens: Half-Day Ancient Corinth Tour

33. Sail around the Athenian coastline

A private yacht cruise close to the Athens Riviera sounds like it would be a divine experience. The only problem is that it could cost you a small fortune.

Tip: Try and make some rich friends if you can.

34. Arachova

Probably the most famous ski resort town in all of Greece, so if you’re thinking about a day trip from Athens in wintertime, this is the place to go.

35. The Mycenean Tholos Tomb of Acharnes, Attica, Greece

For history lovers.

36. Nemea (for wine lovers)

Wine-lovers rejoice! Before visiting this famous Greek wine region, or any wine region for that matter, I highly recommend watching some excellent wine movies dedicated to Dionysus, the God of wine .

It will get you in the mood for some good wine.

Though, Nemea isn’t all about wine as you can see in this great video.

37. Pan’s Cave Hike at Mount Parnitha

Who wouldn’t want to go on a trek to the Pan’s cave?

38. Valanari Waterfall

If you want to see a beautiful waterfall close to Athens, then Valanari Waterfall is probably the best place to go.

39. Scuba diving at the Blue Hole in Athens

Certified scuba divers may want to dive the Blue Hole as a great day trip from Athens.

The Blue Hole is relatively close to Lake Vouliagmeni.

It’s a sea cave that goes down about 30 meters (98 feet) into the ocean floor.

The Blue Hole even opens up to a network of caves that apparently link to Lake Vouliagmeni.

Blue Hole scuba diving tour:

From Athens: Scuba Diving at the Blue Hole

40. Botanical Gardens of Athens – The Botanic Garden of Diomedes

Lastly, this is for everyone who loves walking through beautiful gardens.

You can count me in.

There you have it, everyone, the 40 best day trips from Athens.

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Athens is a fascinating mix of ancient history, contemporary art and culture, buzzing restaurants, hip cafes, shopping rivalling any European capital, and nightlife that lasts until the early hours. It also makes an excellent jump-off point for a day trip to UNESCO World Heritage-listed archeological sites like Meteora, the nearby Saronic island group, and the capital’s gorgeous coastline, known as the Athens Riviera. Here’s a rundown on how you can get out of town for the day.

Cape Sounion: Sunset Over Poseidon's Temple

Cape Sounion, at the southeastern tip of greater Athens, served as a strategic outpost in 5th-century B.C. Athens, when the city-state was a formidable power. Standing atop a sheer cliff looking over the Saronic Sea is the Temple of Poseidon , the latest version of which was built around 444 B.C. in honor of the god of the sea. Time your visit for sunset, when the marble Doric columns can be seen in their best light.

Getting There: KTEL Attikis runs a regular coach service between Athens and Sounion, as well as Sounion and the picturesque town of Lavrion. It takes about 90 minutes to drive from Athens’ city center along the coastal route to the temple, though avoid visiting on a summer weekend when traffic is hectic.

Travel Tip: In summer, make a day of it and go swimming at one of the nearby beaches, like Harakas, on the Athens Riviera . Head to the old silver mining town of Lavrion for lunch at one of the portside fish tavernas.

Delphi: A Mysterious Oracle

In antiquity, devotees from throughout the Mediterranean would make the pilgrimage to the Oracle of sacred Delphi, a location considered to be the navel of the Earth. There they would seek divine guidance from Apollo, the god of light, as communicated via the ramblings of high priestess Pythia. Standing amid the ruins of the Temple of Apollo (which dates to 330 B.C.), the Treasury of the Athenians, an amphitheater, and the well-preserved stadium that hosted the Pythian Games, the aura of magic is certainly palpable. Don’t miss the artefact-rich Archaeological Museum of Delphi .

Getting There: There are numerous companies offering guided day trips, which is the most comfortable and informative way to experience this must-see historical site. If you hire a car, it will take about 2 hours and 20 minutes to travel from Athens to Delphi. Alternatively, KTEL Fokidas offers a coach service.

Travel Tip: Spring is a wise time to explore Delphi, when temperatures are lower, there are fewer fellow visitors and the surrounding olive tree-filled hills are dotted with wildflowers.

Argolis: Must-See Mycenae and Ancient Epidaurus

In the eastern Peloponnese lies Argolis, a land of myths, heroes, and warriors. In Argolis you will find Mycenae , Greece’s most significant Late Bronze Age citadel, where royalty mingled with the military and clergy, and the Acropolis of Tyrins . From there, head south to the port town of Nafplio for a walk through winding alleyways graced with neoclassical mansions. Hike the 857 steps up to the Venetian-built Palamidi fortress for spectacular views of the Argolic Gulf. Finally, test the acoustics at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed open-air Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus .

Getting There: Hire a car to tour Argolis. Athens Insiders offers a guided tour .

Travel Tip: Catch a classical Greek tragedy reworked for modern times at the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus during the annual Athens & Epidaurus Festival .

Meteora: Mystic Monasteries

Around the 11th century, hermits first settled in caves amid the towering perpendicular pillars of sandstone known as Meteora that rise up from the Thessaly plain high into the sky. A UNESCO World Heritage site today, it is home to six Byzantine monasteries built atop the mysterious columns of rock that make up the geological phenomenon. Dating to the 16th century, the Holy Monastery of St. Stephen is the easiest to access, while the Monastery of the Holy Trinity, erected in 1475, is the most challenging. Dress modestly and wear trainers or hiking shoes.

Getting There: Your best option is a day trip tour by train from Athens or one of numerous guided tours by coach. KTEL Trikala offers a coach service (5 hours each way) between the capital and the town of Kalambaka, from where local buses depart for the monasteries.

Travel Tip: Visit Meteora organizes hiking tours led by experienced locals along secret trails to hermitages and small, lesser-known monasteries in September or October when the light is soft and foliage a mix of burnished orange and vivid green.

Aegina: Laidback Island Living

When the weather starts to warm up and time is of the essence, Athenians like to hop on a ferry to Aegina, one of the Saronic Islands . While a favored day trip destination for a leisurely lunch at a waterfront fish taverna in Aegina town, the small, unassuming island is also worth visiting for its 6th-century B.C. Temple of Aphaia . While you’re on the island, pick up a bag of the local pistachios.

Fun fact: If you draw a line on the map between Aphaia, the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, and the Parthenon , you'll see an isosceles triangle.

Getting There: Hellenic Seaways hydrofoils depart from Piraeus port and take 40 minutes to reach Aegina town. ANES -operated ferries cost less, however travel time is 75 minutes. Athens One Day Cruise offers a tour stopping in at the islands of Aegina, Poros and Hydra.

Travel Tip: Board an Agistri Express boat and in 15 minutes, you will be at the tiny, pine-studded isle of Agistri , where you can swim in aquamarine waters at the beach in Skala town.

Hydra: An Island of Artists

Neoclassical, stone, sea captain’s mansions huddle around the slopes of the main town of cosmopolitan Hydra. Cars are prohibited on the island, which has drawn artists such as Henry Miller, Leonard Cohen, and Greek painter Nikos Hadjikyriakos-Ghikas since the '50s. Hydra also appeared on film in the 1956 movie "Boy on a Dolphin," which was partly filmed there. Take a refreshing dip off the rocks at Spilia or Hydronetta into azure waters then sate your hunger at one of the tavernas hidden in the backstreets. Relics from the 1821 Greek War of Independence , examples of traditional local costume, and navigational tools are among the items on display at the Historical Archives Museum of Hydra.

Getting There: A fast catamaran trip with Hellenic Seaways from Piraeus to Hydra takes about 90 minutes.

Travel Tip: Contemporary art aficionados visiting between June and September should check out the annual exhibition at the DESTE Slaughterhouse Project Space .

Marathon: A Legendary Battlefield

This is where the fierce Battle of Marathon took place in 490 B.C. between some 25,000 Persian warriors, who arrived aboard 600 ships, and 9,000 Athenian soldiers, aided by 1,000 Plataeans from ancient Boeotia. Greek forces triumphed, losing 192 Athenians and 11 Plataeans, who were laid to rest beneath burial mounds at Marathon. Remnants of a 33-foot (10 meter) tall marble column erected in celebration of the conquest count are among the highlights of the Archeological Museum of Marathon . An Athenian foot soldier who ran the 26 miles (42 kilometers) to the capital to relay news of the victory inspired the marathon race. Each November, tens of thousands of people run the Athens Marathon , competing in the challenging original course or one of five other races.

Getting there: Marathon is an hour’s drive from Athens’ city center. Rent a car or arrange for a driver or a taxi to take you there.

Travel Tip: Discover Greek Culture runs a Marathon tour offering a rare opportunity for participants to learn the basics of archeological excavation.

Ancient Olympia: Home of the Original Olympics

Not to be confused with Mount Olympus , Ancient Olympia is situated at the foot of Mount Kronios in the western Peloponnese and is famous for hosting the original Olympic Games. The country’s most significant ancient sanctuary consists of ruins ranging from the Bronze Age to the Byzantine era. Among the key monuments is the Temple of Hera, where the Olympic Flame is lit. Go for a run in the ancient stadium and make sure you visit the Archaeological Museum of Olympia , which hosts an extensive collection of artifacts, including impressive bronze sculptures.

Getting There: The best way to get here is on one of the numerous group day trips. You'll save time and learn more than you would on your own.

Travel Tip: One ticket allows admission to the archaeological site, the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, the Museum of the History of the Ancient Olympic Games , and the Museum of the History of the Excavations in Olympia.

Nemea: Hercules and Wineries

Located in the northeast Peloponnese , Nemea has two major drawcards: its place in ancient history and a handful of exceptional wineries. It's one of the country’s prime wine-producing regions and the queen of the vine here is the Agiorgitiko grape variety, which delivers a complex, fruity, and age-worthy red. According to lore, wine here was known as Hercules’ blood, a reference to the hero’s slaying of the Nemean lion. Ancient Nemea features a sanctuary dedicated to Nemean Zeus, an archeological museum , and a late 4th-century B.C. stadium where a 40,000-strong crowd observed the biannual pan-Hellenic Nemean Games.

Getting There: Hire a car for maximum freedom, or join a tour. It takes about one hour and 35 minutes to drive to Nemea from Athens.

Travel Tip: Beyond Athens offers a tour that combines wine-tasting and ancient attractions. You’ll meet local representatives of a new generation of visionary vintners elevating the quality and status of Greek wine.

Vravrona: A Sanctuary for Women

Pay your respects to Artemis, worshipped as a protectress of women during pregnancy and after childbirth, at a sanctuary created in her honour at Vravrona (or Brauron), east of the capital. In classical Athens, daughters aged 7 to 10 would be sent there for a year to serve the goddess, dressing as she-bears in a rite of passage marking their transition to puberty. A partly restored Doric stoa, dating to about 420 B.C., and a bridge once used by pedestrians and wheeled vehicles can be still be seen. Votives including bronze mirrors, rings, and spindle whorls are exhibited at the Archeological Museum of Brauron. Rare and endangered birds and other species can be spotted at the Vravrona wetlands .

Getting There: It takes about an hour to reach Vravrona by car or taxi.

Travel Tip: Wine expert Eleni Kefalopoulou offers fascinating tours of the ancient site and the area’s formidable wineries, where you’ll learn about the area’s long history of winemaking.

Mount Parnitha: Hiking and Deer-Spotting

Go for a hike on Mount Parnitha , a fir- and pine-covered national park spread across 25,000 hectares (61,776 acres) north of Athens. In spring, the slopes explode in a riot of color as 1,100 floral species and subspecies, 92 of which are endemic, unfurl their beauty. Caves can be found on the southern slopes, including one named after Pan, the half-human, half-goat deity of the wild and cheeky companion of nymphs. Keep an eye out for shy red deer, as Mount Parnitha is one of only two habitats in Greece where they can be seen. In the northeast, the ancient fortress of Loimiko offers spectacular views. Dress warmly as the temperature is cooler than in urban Athens and make sure you take a printed map as cell phone coverage is limited in parts.

Getting There: Hire a car or take a taxi. It takes about 40 minutes to reach Mount Parnitha by car.

Travel Tip: Go wandering in the sprawling grounds of the former royal estate of Tatoi , the focus of much controversy in Greece’s modern history, a 30-minute drive from Parnitha.

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Best Day Trips From Athens To: Ancient Sites – Islands – Towns

Last Updated on: Jan 25, 2024
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Published: Jun 2, 2020

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Are there any day trips from Athens worth taking during my vacation? That’s one of travelers’ most common questions before visiting the Greek capital. The answer is a resounding yes. The charms of Athens are not limited to the inner city’s borders.

Numerous thrilling locations lie just beyond the city limits, as well as other famous destinations that are easily within reach and waiting to be explored.

Tips and Frequently Asked Questions About Planning a Day Trip From Athens

From graceful tiny islands and majestic ancient ruins to beautiful seaside landscapes and grandiose monasteries, here are some tips and answers to frequently asked questions for planning the most exciting day trips from Athens on your next vacation.

What Is The Best Day Trip From Athens?

Athens is conveniently located in the center of Greece, and countless locations near the city are great for city breaks and short excursions.

The most popular day trips from Athens are the following:

Mycenae and Epidaurus
Ancient Olympia
Ancient Corinth
The Saronic Gulf Islands of Hydra, Poros, Aegina, and Agistri
Cape Sounion

This abundance of choices makes the question of the best day trip from Athens very difficult to answer.

It all comes down to your interests and how you would like to spend your time on your Athens vacation.

If you are a history buff looking for insight into the country’s culture, then you should choose one of the destinations that feature archaeological sites and museums like Delphi, Ancient Olympia, Ancient Corinth, and Mycenae.

day trips from Athens to Ancient_Corinth and the_Temple_of_Apollo

If you’re longing to relax in a sunny place and enjoy a day sunbathing and swimming, then head for one of the islands close to Athens, like Agistri, Hydra, Aegina, and Poros, or the charming little seaside town of Nafplio.

Finally, for those of you who want to combine sightseeing with natural beauty, Meteora and Cape Sounion are the safest bets.

Apart from your interests, your choice should also depend on how long you are planning to stay in Athens, which brings us to the next question.

How Many Days Do You Need in Athens?

Most visitors tend to spend an average of three to four days in Athens before considering going on a day trip or embarking on a trip to a different destination in Greece.

A span of three or four days in Athens is ideal if you want to get a taste of life in the Greek capital and visit the most famous attractions like the Acropolis Museum and the Parthenon .

Still, the city offers numerous attractions and unique experiences that can’t fit into such a short itinerary.

If you really want to explore Athens and all its charms, then we recommend you plan for a visit of about a week. This way, you’ll also be able to go on a day trip from Athens without missing out on anything it offers.

Which Greek Islands Do Day Trips From Athens?

This is another topic that frequently arises when planning a holiday to Athens. Who wouldn’t like to visit a Greek island while on holiday in Athens after all?

Most visitors ask if there are any islands close to Athens and what is the easiest way to get from Athens to the islands.

Luckily for you, we have all the answers. There are indeed several alluring islands that are close to Athens (within only two hours from the city center), which make perfect destinations for a day trip.

The most famous among them are:

Kea (or Tzia)

All of the above islands are close to the city, but the island closest to Athens is Aegina , a charming islet with lovely architecture and picturesque harbors in the Saronic Gulf only 40 minutes away from the port of Piraeus .

In a small distance from Aegina, you’ll find the rest of the Saronic Gulf islands, namely Hydra, Spetses, Poros, and Agkistri. These are the closest and easiest islands to visit on a day trip from Athens.

As for the rest, the journey might take a little longer, but they are definitely worth a visit if you have enough time.

As for the best island for a day trip from Athens, we recommend that you visit more than one with a cruise in the Saronic Gulf.

Our tips for planning a day trip to the Saronic Gulf islands are below.

Day Trip from Athens to Delphi

A day trip from Athens to Delphi is beyond question one of the most popular tours in Greece.

In ancient times, Delphi was such a respected and important city that it was named the “center of the world” by ancient Greeks.

Its most prominent monument is the Temple of Apollo where citizens and oracles communicated with the Greek Gods and received messages and omens that defined the course of the region’s history.

Today, Delphi is a UNESCO-protected archaeological site with abundant sights and attractions, making it perfect for a refreshing day trip from Athens.

Things to see and do in Delphi

While visiting Delphi, you’ll get the chance to marvel at the famous archaeological site and the Temple of Apollo as well as several other important monuments including the ancient treasury of the Athenians, the Polygonal Wall, the Athenian Stoa, and the monument of Platea.

In addition, do not omit to pay a visit to the Delphi museum to get a glimpse of what life in ancient times looked like through intriguing exhibits like the Sphinx of Naxos, the famous bronze Charioteer of Delphi, and the statue of Antinoos.

How far is Delphi from Athens?

The small town of Delphi is approximately 160 kilometers (around 100 miles ) away from the Greek capital. Even though not one of the nearest destinations to Athens on this list, it’s just close enough for a day trip from Athens.

Traveling to Delphi from Athens by car would take around 2,5 hours .

How to get from Athens to Delphi

The cheapest way to get from Athens to Delphi is by public bus (known as “KTEL” in Greece), and the most convenient is by private transfer or taxi. If you want to know more about getting around Athens, please read our detailed guide here.

The town of Delphi is not connected with the Greek capital via train or airplane, but for those of you who wouldn’t mind, private helicopter tours depart from Athens.

On the other hand, why waste your time planning? Check out some options for a guided tour from Athens to Delphi we found for you.

If you would like to read more details about a day trip from Athens to Delphi, please read the article below.

How to Get From Athens to Delphi and What to See There

Unlocking Delphi: Your Ultimate Guide on How to Get from Athens to Delphi and Discover Hidden Treasures

Day trip from athens to cape sounion and the temple of poseidon.

When you travel to Athens, make sure to spend some time on a day trip to Cape Sounion.

Cape Sounion is one of the most fascinating locations you can find near the city center, offering a great opportunity for a short day trip from Athens. It is a beautiful peninsula on the southwestern coast of Athens that protrudes into the aquamarine waters of the Saronic Gulf.

Cape Sounion features the world-famous Poseidon Temple, astonishing sunset views, magnificent sandy beaches, and local taverns that serve mouthwatering fresh sea-to-table seafood.

Day trip from Athens to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon

Things to do and see in Cape Sounion

Start your visit by walking up to the famous Temple of Poseidon at the archaeological site of Sounion.

The temple is an ancient site of religious worship nestled on the top of a steep 65-meter (about 213 feet) tall cliff. Apart from its stunning architecture, the monument is also famous for its magical views while the sun sets in the sea. Dubbed as one of the most Instagrammable spots in Athens, Cape Sounion offers impeccable opportunities for some truly breathtaking photographs.

Moreover, Cape Sounion is an exceptional place to go swimming as several secluded sandy bays are near the archaeological site.

To finish off the perfect day trip to Sounio, head for one of the traditional taverns for a taste of local Greek cuisine.

How far is Cape Sounion from Athens?

Cape Sounion lies on the famous Athenian Riviera , approximately 77 kilometers (around 48 miles ) away from Athens. Its proximity to the city, especially the southern suburbs, makes it perfect for a day trip. Traveling to Cape Sounion from Athens by car would take a little over one hour .

How to get from Athens to Cape Sounion

You can visit Cape Sounion via bus (KTEL) or tram from the city center but there is no train connection from Athens.

In any case, it is highly recommended that you visit Cape Sounion with a guided tour, not only because your guide will provide valuable insight into the site’s history but also because the beautiful scenic route from Athens to Cape Sounion will be much more enjoyable with a private transfer.

Check out some options for a guided tour from Athens to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon.

If you would like to read more details about a day trip from Athens to the Temple of Poseidon, please read the article below.

How to Organize a Day Trip from Athens to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon

Day trip from athens to meteora.

Located in central Greece, Meteora has rightfully gained the reputation of one of the most unique destinations in Europe, a site that blends stunning mountainous landscapes, natural beauty, Byzantine architecture, and a rich cultural and religious heritage.

As a cultural site, Meteora and its six main active monasteries have been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO .

A day trip from Athens to Meteora is a must for your itinerary on your trip to the Greek capital.

Things to do and see in Meteora

Unquestionably, no day trip to Meteora could ever be complete without a climb up the steep rock where the monasteries are standing. There are six different Byzantine monasteries atop the rock, all of which are open to the public.

A stroll through the monasteries’ interior and their wide terraces that offer unprecedented views over the valley below will make for an unforgettable experience.

Meteora is also one of the most popular outdoor adventure destinations in Greece. It offers numerous mountain biking, rock climbing, and hiking opportunities with several exciting trails running through the rough landscape winding around abandoned monasteries and decades-old hermit caves.

Lastly, when visiting Meteora make sure to spend some time in the town of Kalambaka to visit the Natural History Museum of Meteora and the Mushroom Museum.

How far is Meteora from Athens?

The distance from Athens to Meteora is approximately 360 kilometers (around 224 miles ). Getting to Meteora from Athens by car would take about 4,5 hours .

How to get from Athens to Meteora

The nearest town to Meteora that is connected to Athens is Kalambaka.

A public bus (KTEL) departs from Athens city center and arrives in the nearby town of Trikala. From there, there is another bus route reaching Kalambaka. Alternatively, you can hop on a train from the central train station of Athens (Larissa Station) and reach Kalambaka directly.

Finally, if you value convenience over budget, you can always book a guided tour to Meteora including a private transfer. If you’re looking for a guided tour with a private transfer from Athens to Meteora, we highly recommend this one from GetYourGuide.com .

And it gets better: We have screened the best options for a guided tour to Meteora. See all 6 monasteries of the Meteora rock formations.

If you would like to read more details about a day trip from Athens to Meteora, please read the article below.

How To Organize the Perfect Trip From Athens to Meteora

Day trip from athens to olympia.

Located in western Peloponnese, Olympia is one of the most famous locations in Greece for day trips from Athens for locals and tourists alike.

Olympia is so special -besides its astonishing natural beauty that is representative of southern Greece- that it was the birthplace of the Olympic Games.

In ancient times, Olympia was renowned as a place of profound religious and cultural importance.

Today, Olympia still attracts countless visitors looking for a glimpse of what life in ancient Greece was like during the event that would come to be a universal celebration of nobleness and sportsmanship.

Things to do and see in Olympia

The ancient stadium where the Olympic Games used to take place in ancient Greece should, of course, be on the very top of your bucket list when visiting Olympia. Still, there are many more attractions in this small charming town for you to explore.

Start off by strolling by the Temple of Zeus and the Temple of Hera, two of the oldest remaining monuments in Greece.

Then head over to the neoclassical building that houses the Museum of the Ancient Olympic Games and finish off your visit by marveling at the exhibits of the Archaeological Museum of Olympia and the fascinating, visually rich Archimedes Museum.

On the way from Athens to Olympia, you’ll pass several popular spots of the Isthmus of Corinth, ancient Corinth, and Mycenae. Make sure to make short pit stops if you have enough time to explore what these sites offer.

How far is Olympia from Athens?

The distance between Athens and Olympia is approximately 250 kilometers (around 155 miles ). A one-way trip between Athens and Olympia by car lasts around 3,5 hours .

How to get from Athens to Olympia

You can reach Olympia from Athens by bus (KTEL).

There are daily departures from Athens to the town of Pyrgos. You can hop on a local bus to get to Olympia from there. Alternatively, you can opt for a private transfer, making the drive significantly shorter.

There is no train or plane connection between Athens and Olympia.

Looking for a guided tour to Ancient Olympia? Check some options we found for you !

If you would like to read more details about a day trip from Athens to Ancient Olympia, please read the article below.

How to Go From Athens to Ancient Olympia On a Perfect Day Trip

Day trip from athens to saronic gulf islands.

One of the most frequently asked questions that visitors of Athens have for locals can be summed up to this: How near is the closest island to Athens and how can I get there?

Most of them are delighted to hear that it’s indeed possible to visit several islands from the city center of Athens. And here is the best news: It can take less than a couple of hours to transport from the hustle and bustle of downtown Athens to a charming little island with crystal-clear azure waters and sandy shores.

The Saronic Gulf and the Argolic Gulf, encompassing the southern coasts of Attica, are famous for their aquamarine waters and beautiful islands.

The most popular among them are Salamina, Aegina, Poros, Hydra, and Agistri.

Things to see and do in the Saronic Gulf Islands

Even though they are only a few minutes away, each of the islands close to Athens has a very distinct character, and hence, they attract different types of visitors.

Stunning neoclassical architecture, boutique shops, and a strict car-free policy make glamorous Hydra look like it’s frozen in time.

Lush pine tree forests and golden-sand beaches make Poros ideal for nature lovers.

Featuring ancient temples, pristine beaches, and a vivid culinary scene, Aegina island is your best bet if you’re looking for a combination of history, gastronomy, and beauty.

Spetses is a local favorite for city breaks, featuring secluded beaches and vibrant nightlife during summertime.

Finally, the tiny island of Agistri is great for swimming in crystal-clear waters, watersports, and long hikes in the green surroundings.

If you want to visit more than one island in a single day, it is highly recommended that you book a Saronic Gulf cruise!

How far are the Saronic Gulf Islands from Athens?

The trip duration between Athens and the islands of the Saronic Gulf can range from 45 minutes to two hours depending on your destination.

The island closest to Athens is Aegina, 45 minutes away, and the one farthest away from Athens is Spetses, approximately 2 hours away by ferry .

How to get from Athens to the Saronic Gulf Islands

Located very near the city center, all the islands of the Saronic Gulf and the Argolic Gulf present perfect opportunities for day trips from Athens.

None of the islands have an airport; they are accessible exclusively via boat.

The easiest way to get to the islands is by boarding a ferry at Piraeus port. You can easily reach the Piraeus port via the metro from the city center of Athens (green and blue line) and the Athens International Airport (blue line). After you get off at the Piraeus metro station, you only have to walk a few meters until you reach the port’s entrance.

Apart from ferries, there are also hydrofoil boats departing from Piraeus to some of the islands.

Tickets for both the ferries and the hydrofoils can be booked in advance.

The Ideal Day Trip From Athens to Saronic Gulf Islands

Day trip from athens to epidaurus, mycenae, and nafplio.

For those among you who consider yourself to be history buffs and are looking for ancient sites to explore out of the ordinary, a day trip to Epidaurus, Mycenae and Nafplio is a must.

All of these exciting locations are located on the Argolis peninsula, one of the oldest inhabited regions in Greece that boasts an abundance of archaeological sites and -of course- amazing ocean views.

The Argolis region is just a few hours away from Athens in the southern part of the country called the Peloponnese, which is split from the mainland by the famous Corinth Canal.

Things to do in Epidaurus, Mycenae, and Nafplio

On this day trip, you’ll have the chance to visit two world-class UNESCO sites in a matter of just a few hours.

The first one is the Great Theater of Epidaurus, one of the best-preserved ancient sites in the country, an ancient theater known worldwide for its incredible acoustics.

The second is the historical archaeological site of Mycenae where you will find numerous monuments, including the Royal Tomb of King Agamemnon, the Treasury of Atreus, the Cyclopean Walls, and the Lion’s Gate.

On the way between the two sites, you can make a short stop at Nafplio, the original capital city of the modern Greek state.

There, you can marvel at the astonishing views of the fortress island of Bourtzi and the beautiful Venetian castle of Palamidi or even rest for a while for a refreshing lunch at a seafront restaurant.

On your way back to Athens, you’ll pass over the Corinth Canal which is an incredible attraction in its own right.

How far are Epidaurus, Mycenae, and Nafplio from Athens?

The distance from Athens to Epidaurus is approximately 125 kilometers (or about 77 miles ) and then you’ll need around 35 kilometers (or 21 miles ) to reach Nafplio and a final 23 kilometers ( or 14 miles ) to reach Mycenae.

A one-way trip to all of these destinations by car would last about 3,5 hours .

How to get from Athens to Epidaurus, Mycenae, and Nafplio

You can get to the wider Argolis region with a public bus (KTEL Argolidas) or a public train (OSE) from downtown Athens. Both run a few times every day year-round.

You can also rent a car from Rentalcars.com or hire a taxi service to depart from the city center of Athens or even get to the small town of Kiato with the suburban railway (Proastiakos) and then continue with a taxi.

If you’re looking for the best and fastest way to get to these sites and depart on an incredible day trip from Athens to Epidaurus, Mycenae, and Nafplio, we strongly recommend you take a look at this tour: Argolis – Full-Day Tour in Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio.

To sum it up, whether you can afford to spend several days away from the city center or even just a few hours, one thing is for certain: by choosing one of these best day trips from Athens, you are guaranteed to spruce up your holiday with an extraordinary experience.

Stay on the lookout for our extended guides on what to see and do in each destination and our tips for the best itineraries in and around Athens.

A Quick Reminder:

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16 Best Day Trips from Athens in 2024

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

Updated On: January 5, 2024

Oh Athens, how we love you. We have visited the city three times, but it wasn’t until our most recent trip that we actually spent time really immersing in the energy of this vibrant capital of Greece. While many people immediately jet off to the Greek Islands there are plenty of exciting adventures that can be done on a day trip. From incredible archaeological sites to gorgeous beaches, Athens is not only a destination in itself but also a launchpad for numerous exciting day trips. From the islands off the Athenian Riviera to ancient sites steeped in myth and history, let’s embark on a journey to explore the best day trips you can make from Athens.

Table of Contents

Top Day Trips from Athens

We have driven in Greece many times and it is very easy to navigate. We suggest getting a rental car for your stay in Athens as they are more affordable than other European destinations. You can compare car rental prices here.

If you aren’t comfortable driving, we have suggested the most popular day trips from Athens with links to help you plan your trip.

Planning Your Trip To Athens Right Now?

Below are some of the top day trip tours from Athens. Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting Greece!

Top Day Trip Activities and Tours from Athens:

From Athens: Hydra, Poros, and Aegina Day Cruise with Lunch (Most Popular Day Trip from Athens)
From Athens: Meteora Day Trip w Hermit Caves & Train Tickets (Our Favorite Day Trip)
Athens: Full-Day Trip to Nafplio and Epidaurus with Swimming (Likely to Sell Out)
From Athens: Cape Sounion Private Day Trip at Sunset (Best Deal)

Delphi is just a two-hour drive from Athens and is an essential destination for history and archaeology lovers. This incredible archaeological site is a UNESCO World Heritage housing the Sanctuary of Apollo. Take a guided tour to see the remains of the Temple of Apollo, the ancient theater, and the stadium. Be sure to check out the Athenian Treasury and the Polygonal Wall with its inscriptions.

You will also want to stop by the Delphi Archaeological Museum to learn more about Greek history. Here, you can view its collection of artifacts found in the ancient ruins. One of the most iconic pieces is the bronze Charioteer of Delphi, one of the best-known sculptures surviving from Ancient Greece and take a walk along the Sacred Way which was the main route through the Sanctuary of Apollo, used in processions to the temple. When you are finished at these fascinating ruins, make your way to the modern town of Delphi for lunch at one of its many restaurants, shops, and cafes.

2. Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon

best day trips from Athens temple of poseidon

Cape Sounion is a favorite getaway for both locals and tourists. Including us! Just 60 minutes from downtown Athens, Cape Sounion is also known as the Athens Riviera. There are beaches and resorts making for a fantastic day trip from Athens, or you can book a weekend getaway.

The main attraction here is the most beautiful setting for archaeological ruins that you can get. The Iconic Temple of Poseidon sits high on a seacliff offering incredible vistas of Cape Sounion. Begin your visit by exploring the Doric columns of this 5th-century BC edifice, and don’t forget to seek out Lord Byron’s famous graffiti etched into one of the temple’s remaining pillars.

The Athens Riviera gives a taste of Greek Island Life without having to leave the mainland. Beaches like Sounio Beach and Legrena Beach are just a short drive from the temple. Before leaving, make sure to witness one of the most celebrated sunsets in Greece from the viewpoint near the temple of Poseidon. For food lovers, there are seaside tavernas close by, offering delicious Greek cuisine with a fantastic sea view.

3. Hydra Island

Only a two-hour ferry ride from Athens, Hydra Island is the perfect day trip from Athens for those seeking a taste of the Greek Islands. No motorized vehicles are allowed on Hydra making for a quiet retreat from the city. It is known for its picturesque harbor and narrow, cobbled streets lined with boutiques, art galleries, and local eateries.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the Historical Archives Museum and the Ecclesiastical and Byzantine Museum to learn more about Hydra’s rich past.

For outdoor lovers, there are hiking trails that offer beautiful views of the sea. The trail from Hydra town to the Monastery of Prophet Elias is a particular favorite. Beach lovers can enjoy island life by heading to either Vlychos or Kaminia.

At the end of the day, relax at a waterfront cafe, enjoying local cuisine as boats bob in the harbor. You don’t have to head back to the Greek capital you can book a night on the island to extend your stay. Book a night at the Four Seasons Hydra for a luxurious stay. Check reviews on TripAdvisor

4. Poros Island

Poros is part of the Saronic islands which are easily accessible by a quick ferry ride from Athens. It offers a taste of island life with a more local feel than the popular tourist destinations of Greece.

A visit to the Archaeological Museum of Poros is a must. It houses finds from the sanctuary of Poseidon at Kalavria. Explore the Lemon Forest, a fragrant grove with more than 30,000 lemon and orange trees. Be sure to visit the Clock Tower, the island’s most famous landmark, for panoramic views of Poros and the surrounding sea.

If you’re a beach lover, spend some time at Love Bay or Askeli Beach, both known for their clear waters. Wrap up your day by enjoying a meal at one of the many seaside taverns.

5. Corinth Canal

Best Day Trips From Athens Corinth Canal

The Corinth Canal is an engineering marvel linking the Aegean and Ionian seas. This artificial canal is an impressive site slicing through the narrow 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 built between 1882 and 1893 and separates the Peloponnese Peninsula from the mainland.

You can book a day trip from Athens to see views of the Corinth Canal and visit Ancient Corinth to see where St. Paul lived and its ancient Agora, and Apollo’s Temple. You will also visit the ancient port of Kechreai.

Visit the submersible bridge at Isthmia, one of only two in Europe. For adrenaline junkies, bungee jumping from the canal’s bridge is an option.

Ancient Corinth is a fascinating archaeological site, where you’ll find the Temple of Apollo and the Bema, where St. Paul spoke to the Corinthians. You can also visit the Archaeological Museum of Corinth to get your fill of ancient Greek history.

On your way back to Athens, make a stop at the Acrocorinth, the acropolis of ancient Corinth, a monolithic rock overseeing the ancient city.

Visiting Meteora should be at the top of everyone’s Greek bucket list. Meteora is a UNESCO World Heritage site located four hours from Athens. The area is famed for its towering rock formations and the centuries-old monasteries perched precariously upon the high monoliths.

If you have a car, arrive early in the morning to view the monasteries on your own time ahead of the crowds. You will want at least one full day here to see the impressive monasteries such as the Great Meteoron Monastery, Varlaam Monastery, and Rousanou Monastery. Read more: Monasteries of Meteora, Greece – Magic Monoliths in Photos

Best Day Trips from Athens Meteora Views

We highly recommend taking a walk through the numerous hiking trails snaking around the rock formations, offering panoramic views of the landscape away from the crowds. Better yet, book one of the guided tours offered to learn more about the ruins. We took this hiking tour from Kalabaka that follows the historical paths of the monks.

You may want to consider taking a guided tour to get insights into the history and significance of the area. Before leaving, visit the local town of Kalabaka to try local cuisines. We recommend spending a couple of nights in Meteora and we stayed at The Divani Meteora Hotel which was located right in the heart of the ancient site.

This 4-day Classic Tour lets you see many of the best day trips from Athens in one convenient tour. You’ll explore the best of Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi & Meteora.

7. Mycenae and Epidaurus

Best Day Trips From Athens Mycenae and Epidaurus

Mycenae and Epidaurus offer a deep dive into Greek history to the time of King Agamemnon and the Trojan War. Visit Mycenae, a UNESCO World Heritage that was the center of the Mycenaean civilization which dates back to two hundred BC.

Here you’ll explore the ancient temples including the famous Lion’s Gate, Royal Tombs, The Tomb of Agamemnon, and the Archaeological Museum. The Cyclopean Walls which were named for their massive size, are a must-see.

Next, head to Epidaurus to visit the ancient theatre, dedicated to the Greek God of Medicine Asclepius, famous for its exceptional acoustics and symmetrical construction. Don’t miss the Sanctuary of Asklepios, an important healing center in the ancient world, and its ancient theatre.

The theater at Epidaurus is one of the best-preserved theaters of ancient Greece and its performances still take place today. Imagine yourself living in ancient times watching the likes of Homer or Greek Mythology performed in this impressive archeological site.

Best Day Trips From Athens Mycenae and Epidaurus2

From May to October one of the most famous cultural events takes place here and at the Acropolis in Athens. This festival showcases music and artists and has attracted the likes of Luciano Pavarotti and Frank Sinatra. The 2023 lineup saw a eclectic artists such as Herbie Hancock, Bill Burr, and the Opera de Paris.

This highly rated tour is a full-day guided day trip from Athens that touts itself as carbon neutral. Over the next 10 hours, you’ll visit the Corinth Canal, Mycenae, and Epidauraus as well as Nafplio (Nauplia), the former capital of Greece.

Nafplio, the first capital of modern Greece, combines history, architecture, and stunning sea views. Visit the Palamidi Fortress and enjoy the panoramic view of the city and the Argolic Gulf. Stroll around the old town with its Venetian houses and neoclassical mansions, stopping at Syntagma Square to explore the Archaeological Museum.

Take a boat ride to Bourtzi, a Venetian fortress on an island in the middle of the city’s harbor. Lastly, enjoy local dishes at a seaside restaurant and explore the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Combine some of the best day trips from Athens with this highly rated guided tour . Your tour guide is a qualified historian who will take you to the Corinth Canal, Palamidi Castle, the Acropolis of Nafplio, and the famous Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus. You’ll also have a stop at Karathonas Beach for a dip in the Aegean Sea.

9. Spetses Island

Best Day Trips From Athens Spetses Island

Spetses is one of the most picturesque Saronic islands that is a two-hour-long journey by ferry from Athens. This beautiful island boasts a rich maritime history and elegant architecture.

Discover the island’s history at the Museum of Spetses and the House of Bouboulina, a museum dedicated to the female admiral who played a significant role in the 1821 War of Independence. The Old Harbor area, with its old mansions and the grand Poseidonion Hotel, is well worth a visit.

Rent a bike or a horse-drawn carriage to explore the town or hop on a water taxi to visit some of the island’s beautiful beaches like Agia Marina and Agioi Anargyroi. Remember to sample local delicacies at one of the island’s numerous seafood restaurants or taverns.

This e-bike cycling tour is a half-day tour that takes you around the main sights of the small island to see the old harbor and learn about the island’s history.

10. Aegina Island

Best Day Trips From Athens Aegina Island

Aegina is an idyllic island known for its pistachio orchards, ancient ruins, and white stone houses. Start your trip by visiting the Temple of Aphaia, an ancient architectural masterpiece that forms a sacred triangle with the Parthenon and the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion.

Explore the charming town with its traditional houses, and don’t miss the local market where you can buy the famous Aegina pistachios. For beach enthusiasts, Marathonas, Agia Marina, and Perdika are all excellent choices. If you have time, a visit to the tiny island of Moni, a nature reserve full of peacocks and deer, is highly recommended.

You can also book a day cruise to Aegina. This full day boat tour lets you discover the Saronic Sea on a classic wooden sailboat. Enjoy views of the Saronic Gulf as you sip cocktails and enjoy snacks en route to the islands of Agistri and Aegina. Enjoy the beaches and take an optional bike tour. You’ll also have stops at Moni or Nisis Metopi.

11. Lake Vouliagmeni

Best Day Trips From Athens Lake Vouliagmeni

Just a short drive from the city center, Lake Vouliagmeni is a stunning natural lake with therapeutic properties. Swim in the warm, mineral-rich waters, which maintain a constant temperature year-round. For the adventurous, explore the lake’s underwater cave network, home to the elusive Lutra, a small underwater sea creature.

After relaxing by the lake, visit the nearby Vouliagmeni town, known for its upscale restaurants and beautiful beaches. Try some local cuisine or take a stroll along the marina.

Day tours can be booked from Athens to see Lake Vouliagmeni combined with the Athens Riviera. This highly rated private tour takes you by van to see Lake Vouliagmeni, the historic town of Lavrio, and the Temple of Poseidon.

12. Mystras

Journey to Mystras, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the ‘Wonder of Morea.’ Once a thriving Byzantine city, today, it’s an archaeological treasure. Start your day by exploring the Palace of Despots, the city’s most prominent monument. Then, visit the Peribleptos Monastery to admire the best-preserved frescoes in Mystras.

Do not miss the Pantanassa Monastery. It is the only inhabited part of the site that is actually home to a small group of nuns. Make sure to hike up to the Castle on top of the hill for a panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes.

Wrap up your visit by exploring the Museum of Mystras, where you’ll discover a collection of artifacts that offer insights into the city’s past.

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

13. Olympia

Who wouldn’t want to see the birthplace of the Olympic Games? Begin by exploring the archaeological site, which includes the Temple of Zeus, once home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Statue of Zeus. The Temple of Hera, the ancient Olympic Stadium, and the Palaestra are also must-sees.

Extend your knowledge at the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, which hosts a fantastic collection of artifacts from the site. Don’t forget to visit the Museum of the History of the Ancient Olympic Games to learn about this essential aspect of Greek culture.

14. Mount Parnitha National Park

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life with a trip to Mount Parnitha National Park, an oasis of greenery on Athens’ doorstep. For hiking enthusiasts, there are numerous trails weaving through the park, offering panoramic views over Athens. As you explore, keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife, including red deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species.

Visit the Mpafi Refuge, where you can rest, have a meal, or even spend the night. If you’re a fan of mystery and history, explore the park’s abandoned royal summer residences and the Tatoi Palace, adding a touch of human history to the natural grandeur.

Nemea is a paradise for wine lovers. Known for its red wine production, especially the Agiorgitiko grape, visiting the local wineries and vineyards should be at the top of your to-do list. Take a wine-tasting tour, visit the cellars, and learn about the region’s wine-making process.

In addition to wine, Nemea is rich in history. Explore the Archaeological Site of Nemea, which includes the ancient stadium where the Nemean Games were held, and the Temple of Zeus. Be sure to visit the Archaeological Museum of Nemea to further delve into the region’s fascinating past.

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

16. Marathon

Revisit ancient history when visiting Marathon. Marathon is synonymous with long-distance races due to the legendary run of Pheidippides from the battlefield to Athens.

Start your visit at the Marathon Tomb, a burial mound for the soldiers who fought in the Battle of Marathon. The nearby Archaeological Museum of Marathon offers further insights into the area’s history.

Nature lovers should visit Schinias National Park, home to the beautiful Schinias Beach and a coastal pine forest. If time allows, make a trip to the Marathon Dam, an impressive feat of engineering, and enjoy a picnic at the Lake Marathon Reservoir.

Where Should I Go on a Day Trip from Athens?

There are numerous Athens day trips that are easily accessible. Some excellent day trip destinations include the historical site of Delphi, Cape Sounion with the awe-inspiring Temple of Poseidon, Hydra Island, or Poros Island.

Other day trips from Athens include the engineering marvel of the Corinth Canal, the majestic landscape of Meteora, the historical sites of Mycenae and Epidaurus, the elegant city of Nafplio, the maritime town of Spetses Island, the idyllic Aegina Island, the therapeutic Lake Vouliagmeni, the ancient city of Mystras, the Olympic birthplace of Olympia, the green oasis of Parnitha National Park, the wine paradise of Nemea, and the legendary town of Marathon.

What Islands Around Athens are Day Trips?

Several islands around Athens are suitable for day trips, offering a variety of experiences. Some of the top islands for day trips include Hydra, known for its car-free cobblestone streets and relaxed atmosphere, Poros with its blend of historical sites and beautiful beaches, Spetses which boasts a rich maritime history and stunning architecture, and Aegina, famous for its pistachio orchards and ancient ruins.

Can you Do Day Trips to Islands from Athens?

Doing day trips to islands from Athens is a popular choice for many visitors. The three closest islands suitable for a day trip are Aegina, Hydra, and Poros. These islands are easily accessible by ferry, making them perfect for quick getaways from the hustle and bustle of Athens.

What are the Three Closest Islands to Athens Me

The three closest islands suitable for a day trip are Aegina, Hydra, and Poros.

A visit to Athens is one of the most memorable vacations we’ve ever taken. The Cradle of Western Civilization, Athens is filled with important ruins that helped to shape the world as we know it.

Plan Your Next Trip to Greece With these Resources

Is Greece Expensive to Visit: Travel Costs
23 Best Beaches In Greece To Visit
26 Of The Best Places To Visit In Greece
The Best Things To Do In Athens, Greece
Things To Do In Meteora Greece – More Than Monasteries
Where To Stay In Athens – A Guide To The Best Neighborhoods

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO .

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

About ThePlanetD Team

Guest writers for The Planet D offer insider tips and information on destinations that they are experts in. We can't be everywhere at once, and it is important to have the highest level of travel information from local writers and experienced travelers.

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2 thoughts on “16 Best Day Trips from Athens in 2024”

Super blog.

Athens is a really awesome location and I first I had a love over there.

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Best Day Trips from Athens: Greek Ruins, Islands, Monasteries, + More

last Updated: October 14, 2022 athens greece

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to Greece and looking for the best day trips from Athens?! You’re in luck; keep on reading for some fantastic additions to any Athens itinerary!

After spending about 2 days in Athens or so, it’d be wise to get yourself outta the city! These day tours from Athens are the perfect way to extend any Greece trip, and will surely add to your obsession with the country (it did for me).

I can’t stress this enough – if you don’t have time to make it south to the popular islands ( Santorini , Mykonos , Ios, and Crete ring a bell, correct?), definitely check out a sailing trip or two from Athens. And if you’re looking for some ancient monasteries to explore, Meteora’s calling your name. Haven’t had enough history just yet? Book yourself a tour to Delphi , Corinth, or the famed Temple of Poseidon (all excellent choices).

Sailing to THREE Greek islands in One Day from Athens >> By far a favorite day trip of mine! Learn about the logistics here!

Plus, many of these day trips from Athens will be much quieter and less touristy than the city itself, giving you a chance to escape the crowds and observe a more authentic version of local Greek life. Set out on one of the following Athens day trips and I promise you, you won’t regret it. Just promise to bring me back a few pieces of spanakopita and some of that sweet, sweet Aegean sunshine. 🙂

Read Next: The Perfect 2-Day Athens Itinerary for the First Time Visitor

Best Day Trips from Athens

Distance from Athens: 111 miles/184 km
Activities You Can’t Miss : Tons of historical ruins and structures, like the Temple of Apollo and the Treasury of Athens

Located about two hours from Athens in the mountains of Central Greece lies Delphi, one of the most important historical areas in all of Greece (yup). If you haven’t already gotten enough of the ancient Greek ruins in the capital city, head on over to Delphi, as it’s by far one of the most amazing day trips from Athens for anyone who geeks out over Greek history!

It’s easiest to book a day tour like this one or this one (straight from Athens), but you can also get to Delphi by bus or car if you’d rather DIY your own trip.

Top tips for visiting the beautiful Delphi, Greece! So much history here!

Psst – I like to join organized trips in order to leave the driving to someone else, especially when traveling solo. During my recent trip to Greece, I visited Delphi on a 2-day trip to Northern Greece (which included the monasteries of Meteora as well), so that’s something to keep in mind as well if you’ve got 2 days to spare in Athens.

Here, you’ll find some of Greece’s most jaw-dropping archaeological sites, like the Temple of Apollo, the Treasury of Athens, and the Theater of Delphi (all pretty remarkable if you ask me). These massive sites have towering marble ruins that sparkle against the mountainous, green backdrops, perfect for a relaxing day of exploring or, you know, the ‘gram.

If it’s rainy or you’d simply like to learn more, there are also two history museums – the Archaeological Museum of Delphi and the Museum of Delphic Festivals – to learn even more about the history and traditions of the area.

→ Read Next: My (super-informative) Day Trip to Delphi

But if you’re not that into history, Delphi has plenty of other things you can do → The surroundings are full of charming, adorable towns to explore! The village of Chrisso is full of super cute cobblestoned streets to wander, with shops and small cafes you can duck into for a quick bite.

Or, head to Arachova, the hilly little town with red-roofed homes that’s one of the most beloved winter getaways from Athens because of its amazing ski resorts. In either place, you can stop at a locally-owned Greek taverna to sample traditional Greek dishes that will make your mouth water with joy. Book day trip to Delphi here or check out the additional options below:

2. Hydra, Aegina, and Poros (3 island cruise from Athens)

Distance from Athens: Tour begins at Marina Flisvus, 6 miles/10 km from Athens
Activities You Can’t Miss : 3 gorgeous Greek islands to explore, plus a buffet lunch with Greek music on a comfortable, luxurious boat!
Special Foods to Try: Anything seafood-related! The islands are known for their amazing fish dishes. I also had cantaloupe ice cream (weird, I know) which I loved, as well as pistachios on Aegina (they have some of the best pistachios in the world)

If you’re dreaming of sipping cocktails on the water with the salty sea breezing through your hair, you can take a relaxing 3 island cruise to Hydra, Aegina, and Poros from Athens ! This cruise explores the nearby Saronic Islands, and is undoubtedly one of the most relaxing and adventurous day tours from Athens all in one.

Not only do you get to explore three beautiful islands off the coast of Athens for a whole day, but you’ll get ample time to spend reading, relaxing, and whatever you may please on the way.

Mid trip, a hearty Greek lunch will be provided, so make sure to eat your weight in grape leaves and traditional Greek cake (I sure did). A show of traditional Greek singing and dancing is also found onboard, so be sure not to miss that!

Most day cruises to the Saronic Islands leave from Marina Flisvos, a port just outside of Athens. You’ll board your ship and get sailing! Your first port will be at Hydra, where you’ll have approximately 90 minutes to wander through the streets of the main town or head down to the sparkling beaches, which are perfect for sunbathing or going for a swim.

This idyllic island full of picturesque red tiled houses and narrow stone-paved streets is one I’ll gladly revisit on my next trip to Greece.

→ Read Next: Sailing to the Saronic Islands from Athens

Next, you’ll head to Poros, which is a quieter island with isolated beaches and some historic buildings that are even visible from the water (!!!). Despite being the smallest of the three, Poros is a volcanic little island filled with great beauty and lush, green vegetation.

Here, you can hang out by the water or explore the town, where you’ll find cobblestoned streets and adorable shops and Greek tavernas. You’ll explore Poros for ~50 minutes before heading back to the boat for your final island of the day.

Your last and longest stop will be at Aegina, where you’ll have a whole 3 hours to wander around on foot. Aegina is one of the most important and famous islands for Greek ruins and history (oh so much history everywhere in this country!). Here, you can find the famous Temple of Aphaia, which was an early rendition of the Parthenon.

There are plenty of historic and natural gems to explore on Aegina, and since it’s the longest stop, you should be able to hit the most iconic spots. Don’t miss out on the pistachos → Up and down the waterfront I found plenty and plenty of pistachio stands, offering loads of samples, which you know I devoured.

Little did I know, pistachio trees have been cultivated on Aegina Island since the 1860’s! To say they are quite famous here is a massive understatement! Book sailing trip to 3 islands here or check out the additional options below:

3. Nafplio, Mycenae, + Epidaurus

Distance from Athens: 83 miles/138 km
Activities You Can’t Miss : Exploring the ruins at Mycenae, historic castles in Nafplio, and the theater at Epidaurus

As one of the popular Athens day trips, a visit to Nafplio, Mycenae, and Epidaurus (also known as the Argolis) offers a nice mix of history and charming villages. If you’ve never heard of these places, they’re home to some of the most impressive temples in Greece, like the Lionesses Gate and the Ancient Treasure of Atreus.

I know, they sound like amazing, faraway lands from some kind of storybook, but these are actual places that you can visit on a day trip to the Argolis area!

Best Day Trips from Athens: ruins, islands, monasteries, and more

Since you’ll have to move around quite a bit to fit everything in one day, I recommend taking a tour like this one or this one . Both will take you to the main sites in the Argolis area, but the first tour actually comes with an actual archaeologist as your guide, who can tell you all of the cool stories and theories surrounding these ruins.

First, you’ll head to Mycenae, where you’ll see ruins like the Cyclopean Walls, the Lionesses Gate, and the Ancient Treasure of Atreus, which were constructed in the Bronze Age (~1350 BC). You can admire the amazing, ancient structures here, which have really withstood the test of time over thousands of years!

Then, you’ll head to the former capital of Greece, Nafplio, where you’ll get to see the blend of Venetian, Greek, Ottoman, and Byzantine architecture and history. Visit the Castles of Bourtzi and Palamidi in Nafplio, which are two really beautiful examples of the different, unique architecture in the area.

You can head back to Athens early or end your day at Epidaurus, which is a massive, ancient theater near Nafplio. It is still used today occasionally, and if you’re lucky, you may catch a festival or event going on there! Book tour here or check out the additional options below:

Distance from Athens: 215 miles/358 km
Activities You Can’t Miss : Visiting cliff-top monasteries and seeing the entire area from Panorama Rock

Quite possibly one of the most famous sites in Greece (and one of the most popular day trips from Athens), Meteora is an area home to isolated, ancient monasteries that sit atop the most eerie rock formations ever – vertical columns that seem to spring out of nowhere!

Of course, the monasteries are amazing, but it’s really the combination of the strange landscape and the man-made structures on top of it that make Meteora so special.

One day in Meteora Greece >> how to make the most of it!

You can get to Meteora on your own by bus or train, or you can book a day trip like this one or this one . In my opinion, since Meteora is so far from Athens , it’s a LOT easier to book a tour so you don’t have to worry about getting yourself there and back in one day. I’m exhausted just thinking about that.

Once you’re in Meteora, your tour will take you to see the amazing viewpoint from Panorama Rock, visit some of the cliff-top monasteries, and explore the nearby town of Kalambaka. If you’re DIY-ing your trip, you can go hiking as well, provided you have enough time for that (hint, you probably won’t with just one day from Athens).

If you’re interested in visiting both Delphi and Meteora (highly, highly recommended), you can combine the two into one 2-day tour instead of going back and forth on separate day tours from Athens (now that’d just be silly). Delphi is on the way to Meteora, so you’ll save time and money by doing both in one trip.

You can DIY your trip or make it easier on yourself by booking this wonderful 2-day tour , which includes accommodation, all tours, and some meals. Book 1 day tour to Meteora here. Book 2 day tour to both Delphi and Meteora here. Check out the additional options below:

5. Sailing to Agistri, Moni & Aegina

Distance from Athens: The tour starts in Piraeus, which is 9 miles/15 km from Athens
Activities You Can’t Miss : Snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing on the seaside (plus beautiful historic sites in Aegina)

I hope you’re not tired of exploring the Greek islands, because this is one of the best Athens day trips for a full day of island hopping! ( Who am I kidding, how could anyone get tired of island hopping in Greece?! ) On this day-long sailing adventure tour , you’ll travel to the islands of Agistri, Moni, and Aegina.

Your first stop is Agistri, which is best known for its beautiful beaches, and you betcha’ll have time to get your tan on in the sparkling waters and golden sands of Megalochori and Skala. Up for something a bit more active? Take a bike tour around some of the beaches on the island (then relax later on).

Next, you’ll head to Moni, an uninhabited nature island where you’ll eat lunch (seafood, anyone?!). This forested island has a ton of wildlife and is perfect for a tranquil, midday siesta. After you eat, you can sunbathe or snorkel in the waters nearby!

Your last stop will be Aegina, that same island we talked about in the other island hopping tour. There’s a reason why Aegina is on the itinerary of many sailing day trips from Athens (psst – it’s gorgeous). I won’t go too far in depth about Aegina, (since it’s covered it in the other section), but basically, it’s home to one of the most famous temples in Greece: the Temple of Aphaia. Book sailing trip here or check out the additional options below:

6. Seaside Winery Tour

Distance from Athens: You’ll be picked up and dropped off at your hotel in Athens
Activities You Can’t Miss : Wine tasting (duh!) and a lunch at an adorable seaside tavern
Special Foods to Try: Traditional Greek snacks at the wineries and seafood dishes at the tavern!

What’s more dreamy or relaxing than sipping wine by the seaside? Umm…yeah, basically nothing. Luckily, day trips from Athens bring you to do exactly that: tasting delicious Greek wines along the Aegean Sea.

This delicious tour takes you to a few local wineries near Athens, and includes lunch in a delicious seaside tavern. Since you’ll be drinking alllll the wines and enjoying your life to the fullest (it is Greece afterall!), I strongly recommend booking that tour.

Why worry about driving, transportation, or logistics when you don’t have to? Instead, follow along someone else’s itinerary and just drink it all up and soak in that fresh Aegean air.

Greece is home to several unique red and white wine varieties, with names I’ve never heard anywhere else! On the tour , you can try white wines like Assyrtiko, Malagousia, and Savatiano. Savatiano, a white variety that’s native to Greece, is the most famous wine in the wine region near Athens and is produced in high numbers there.

You’ll also get to try some of the local red wines, like Agiorgitiko, as well as international varieties grown in Greece, like Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Please and thank you!

The tour will end at a locally-owned seafood tavern right on the water , where you can dine on delicious regional specialties and admire the sparkling seaside. Sounds like a relatively perfect day from Athens to me! Book seaside winery tour here.

Distance from Athens: 50 miles/83 km
Activities You Can’t Miss : Ancient Corinth, Temple of Apollo, Corinth Canal

Imagine the lavish cities of the ancient Greek civilization and you’ve got Corinth, one of the most rewarding Athens day trips for history and culture lovers! Located at the entrance to the Peloponnese Peninsula, you’ll find ancient marvels located next to the shine and sparkle of modern-day Corinth.

While the city itself has tons of restaurants and shops, your visit will truly feel special because of the ancient history that surrounds you!

Without a visit to the ancient areas of Corinth, it’s hard to understand the fascinating story of this place. Head to Ancient Corinth to catch a breathtaking glimpse of one of the most influential Classical cities, which was taken over by the Romans in 146 BC.

The ruins hold many remains of temples, homes, and government buildings, but quite possibly the most important is the Temple of Apollo, which still has a handful of standing columns.

Arcocorinth is another beautiful structure located on top of a hill in the Corinth area. It’s absolutely worth a visit if you’re in the area, even if you just snap a photo of this majestic fortress. Its walls climb in zig-zags up a hill and measure almost 2 kilometers in length! Quite impressive if you ask me.

While you’re in Corinth, don’t forget to visit the Corinth Canal! It’s one of the most interesting landmarks, and located ~4 kilometers east of the city. This is the canal that separates the Peloponnese Peninsula from the Greek mainland and is an incredibly picturesque spot, where the sparkling blue seawater juts between two vertical cliffs. While there isn’t much to do at the canal itself, it’s definitely worth a stop to see it and take a few photos!

While you can DIY this trip, there are also many agencies that offer day tours from Athens to Corinth. We recommend booking this day tour to save the hassle of getting back and forth from Athens. It also includes a local guide who can tell you all about the history of the places you’re seeing (better than any guidebook or travel blog can, I promise!) Book tour to Corinth here or check out the additional options below:

8. Cape Sounio and the Temple of Poseidon

Distance from Athens: 46 miles/76 km

There are few things more relaxing than being by the seaside, and a day trip to Cape Sounio is no different. During a trip to Cape Sounio, you can lounge by the beach and frolic in the water, and also make a stop at the famed Temple of Poseidon, which is one of the most well-known temples in all of Greece.

Cape Sounio is also known for epic sunsets (which, not gonna lie, is what sold me on adding the cape to my never-ending bucket list!).

You can get to the Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounio by bus fairly easily from Athens, which will give you the flexibility to travel at your own pace. However, if you’d rather have your transportation organized or go with a local driver/guide, you can book this half-day sunset tour from Athens , which is reasonably priced and organizes everything for you (and lets you have a glimpse of the gorgeous sunsets I mentioned before!).

During your visit to Cape Sounio, you can stop at the nearby Temple of Poseidon, which is still fairly intact even though it was built in 444-440 BC. Here, you’ll see tons of marble columns that made up the once lavish, extravagant temple. Even though the temple is the main thing to see here, there are ruins that extend down the hill — don’t miss out on the chance to explore further!

Once you get to Cape Sounio, it’s all sun and sand! Lined with high-end resorts, Cape Sounio is a hotspot for vacationers looking for a break from Athens. On the tour I recommended before , the guide will take you to a dedicated swimming spot where you can watch the sunset (swoooooon x 23436234).

If you DIY this trip, you may have a harder time finding a spot to swim, but there are plenty of seaside restaurants where you can take in the sunset views! Book half day sunset tour to Cape Sounio here or check out the additional options below:

Are you headed to Greece soon? Which of these day trips from Athens are on your list to visit?

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10 Best Day Trips From Athens Greece In 2024

If you are looking for day trips from Athens Greece, you’ll be spoiled for choice! You can easily visit Ancient Delphi, Cape Sounion, Mycenae, Epidaurus, Nafplion, Hydra and other Greek islands in the Saronic Gulf, and many more destinations.

Day tours from Athens

Day trips from Athens offer visitors the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful places in Greece. Although the Greek capital can keep you occupied for days, it’s definitely worth venturing out to see a different side of the country.

There are plenty of amazing destinations close to Athens. Depending on what you are interested in, you can explore archaeological ruins, find out more about ancient Greek history, enjoy the beautiful diverse landscapes, or go sailing and swimming!

I’m an Athenian, and have been living in Athens for several decades. While I love my city, I also like leaving the city behind, and enjoying a day out – preferably somewhere by the coast!

So, let’s have a look at some of the most popular places to visit near the Greek capital! You can visit them independently, or on an organized tour, where you won’t have to worry about transportation and any other logistics.

I recommend: GetYourGuide for booking tours in Greece .

1. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ancient Delphi

Ancient Delphi is one of the most popular full-day trips from Athens. The incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site is located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, in the region called Fokida, about three hours north-west of Athens.

In the ancient times, Delphi was one of the most important archaeological sites in mainland Greece, and was known as the navel of the world. This is where the Greek God Apollo, the God of Light, Sun and Music, was worshiped.

Ancient Delphi is a great day trip from Athens

Ancient Delphi was also home to the famous Oracle Pythia, the high priestess who could predict the future. People came from all around the ancient world to consult her and take decisions accordingly.

Today, Delphi remains one of the most fascinating ancient sites in Greece. Visitors can see the remains of various buildings, such as the ancient temples of Apollo and Athena, the ancient theater and the large stadium. Many people comment on the site’s special energy – and whether you agree or not, the landscape is truly spectacular.

Here is some more information about Ancient Delphi . Also, have a look at this article about the famous Delphic Maxims , which were carved on the ancient ruins around the site.

How to visit Ancient Delphi and the Delphi Archaeological Museum

Many visitors take an organized full day tour to Ancient Delphi. There are several options, such as this guided tour of Ancient Delphi and the museum , which also includes a stop at the picturesque Arachova village.

You can also visit Ancient Delphi independently, either by public bus , or by hired car. If you are thinking to drive, read this article about driving in Greece first.

You can book your rental car here: Discover Cars .

Allow at least three to four hours for your visit, as there’s a lot to see in Delphi. Very importantly, don’t miss the ancient stadium! It’s located at the highest point of the site, and it offers the best views of Mt Parnassus and the wider area of Delphi. The climb is totally worth it!

2. The temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion

The iconic temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion is a popular half day tour from Athens. It was built in 444-440 BC to honor Poseidon, the God of the Sea in Greek mythology, and it’s been very well preserved.

Cape Sounio is located about 70 kms (43.5 miles) south of the Athens city center. The winding coastal road that leads to the ancient site is a scenic route, known as the Athens Riviera. It stretches from the port of Piraeus to Cape Sounion and the nearby coastal town of Lavrion.

The ancient temple of Poseidon is perched on a rocky headland right at the tip of Cape Sounion. It overlooks the Aegean Sea, and offers some amazing sunset views to the lucky visitors.

Here is some more information: The Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion .

The Temple of Poseidon is an easy half-day trip from Athens

Take a tour to the Temple of Poseidon

There are three ways to visit the majestic Temple of Poseidon: on a tour, by public bus, or drive yourself.

There are all sorts of organized tours to Cape Sounion. Usually, these do not include a guided tour inside the archaeological site, but they take away the pressure of driving on the narrow coastal road to Sounion.

Here is a highly rated option: Organized half-day tour to Cape Sounion

There’s also a hop-on hop-off bus tour to the archaeological site, which gives you access to these buses for two full days: Hop-on hop-off bus to Cape Sounion

Visit Sounion temple independently

Another idea if you are happy to drive on winding roads, is to hire a car and drive to the temple yourself. This way, you can plan your day without being on anyone’s schedule, and you can also extend this half day trip into a full-day activity.

So, before getting to the temple of Poseidon, you can go to a nearby beach, and maybe even have a picnic lunch. Or you can visit Lake Vouliagmeni , where you can swim year-round.

You can book your rental vehicle here: Discover Cars .

Finally, there are also public buses to Cape Sounion. They depart from Pedion tou Areos, in central Athens, and the journey can take about 1.5-2 hours, depending on traffic.

You might be able to find an updated bus schedule in the official KTEL bus website , which, unfortunately, is very badly maintained. Overall, if you are on a tight schedule, it’s probably best to avoid the buses as they aren’t all too frequent.

3. Day cruise along the Athens Riviera

The coastal route called the Athens Riviera is lovely, but can be challenging to drive on.

Another option if you want to see the Athenian Riviera is to take a boat tour. This is a relaxed day where you’ll get to enjoy the sea and sun, without really leaving the Greek capital!

Here are a couple of sailing tours from Athens:

Catamaran sailing tour with meals and drinks
Sunset sailing cruise along the Athenian Riviera

Or, if you want to combine a sailing trip with a visit to the Temple of Poseidon, check out this small group tour: Sailing tour to the Temple of Poseidon .

Sunset over the temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion

4. Sanctuary and ancient theater of Epidaurus

Ancient Epidaurus is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Greece. It is located in the Peloponnese, a large region in southern Greece, approximately two hours away from Athens.

This magnificent ancient site was the sanctuary of Asclepius, the Greek God of healing and medicine. The Ancient Greeks traveled here from far and wide in order to be cured of their ailments.

The most impressive monument here is the ancient theater of Epidaurus, which was built in the 4th century BC and is known for its superb acoustics. There is also a small museum where you can read some really interesting information about ancient sanctuaries and ancient healing practices.

For more information, have a look at this guide to Ancient Epidaurus .

How to visit Epidaurus and the Ancient Theatre

You can easily visit Ancient Epidaurus on your own. There are a few public buses per day connecting Athens and Ancient Epidaurus. However, a rental car will offer more freedom, as you will be able to travel in your own time.

Another way to visit Ancient Epidaurus is on an organized day trip from Athens , with or without a tour guide. Most of these trips stop briefly at the Corinth Canal close to Ancient Corinth, and also take you to Ancient Mycenae and Nafplion, which are nearby. It’s a full day, but you will get to see a lot.

You can visit the ancient theater of Epidaurus on a day trip from Athens

Tip: Every summer, several performances take place at the ancient theater of Epidaurus. If you get the chance, you should definitely try to see a performance and experience the amazing acoustics! Here is the official website , where you can find information and book your tickets.

5. The archaeological site and museum at Ancient Mycenae

Another easy day tour from Athens is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ancient Mycenae in the Peloponnese. It would only take about an hour and a half to drive there from Athens, and Ancient Epidaurus is only 45 minutes away.

Mycenae is where the ancient Mycenaean civilization flourished in the early 2nd millennium BC. The site is best known for its imposing fortifications and the ancient beehive tombs where kings were buried, known as tholos tombs.

The most iconic monument here is the famous Lion’s Gate, a massive entrance gate with two lions carved into it. It dates from around 1,250 BC, which is several centuries before the Acropolis of Athens was built!

Here is some more information: Guide to Ancient Mycenae .

How to visit Ancient Mycenae and the museum

Ancient Mycenae is an easy Athens day trip. If you want to visit independently, the best option is to hire a car . This way, you will have more freedom, and you will be able to visit other nearby archaeological wonders like Ancient Tiryns or Argos, which often fly under the radar.

It’s also possible to use the public buses from Athens to Mycenae. You will arrive at a small village called Fichti , which is about 4 kms from the ancient site. From there, you would need to take a taxi – unless you are happy to walk. For bus routes from Athens to Mycenae click here .

As mentioned earlier, you can also take an organized tour , where you will also visit Ancient Epidaurus and the historic town of Nafplion. Guided tours are the best option if you don’t want to drive, and you will see some of the highlights of the Peloponnese.

6. The coastal town of Nafplion

Another popular excursion from Athens is the quaint coastal town of Nafplion. It is located in the Peloponnese, a couple of hours away from Athens.

Nafplio was the first capital of modern Greece, following the Greek Revolution in 1821 . It is a beautiful old town with quaint architecture, an impressive Venetian fortress, Palamidi castle, and a picturesque harbor.

There are also a few nice coastal walks around Nafplion, as well as a few beaches, where you will see people swimming year-round! All in all, it’s a lovely town to spend a few days, if you have time.

Here is some more information, including places to visit around Nafplion if you are staying longer: What to do in Nafplion Greece

How to get to Nafplion

If you want to only visit Nafplio, without visiting the ancient sites of Mycenae and Epidaurus, it’s probably easier to take the public bus , as there are several buses per day.

Alternatively, you can hire a car , which you will need to park at the designated parking areas just outside the historic center of the town.

Or you can always take the organized coach trip from Athens, combined with Epidaurus and Mycenae. Here is how to book the Nafplion – Mycenae – Epidaurus day trip .

7. The majestic Meteora monasteries

Another popular day excursion from Athens is to the majestic Meteora monasteries. The iconic UNESCO Site is located in the region called Thessaly, about 4.5 hours away from Athens by car.

The area is known for its unique rock formations and the stunning Greek Orthodox monasteries, which have been perched on top of the rocks for many centuries. These monasteries were built by monks who were looking to escape from earthly troubles and sought spiritual salvation.

There are six active monasteries today, where monks and nuns still live. They are all open to visitors, and they offer a unique insight into the history of monasticism in Greece.

The nearest town is Kalambaka, where you will have a wide choice of tavernas and cafes. There are also a few fantastic museums that are worth visiting, such as the Mushroom Museum and the Greek Education Museum.

Here is some more information about the amazing Meteora Monasteries .

How to get to Meteora from Athens

If you want to visit Meteora on a day trip from Athens, the best way is to go on an organized tour, as it’s a long drive from the Greek capital. However, if you can spend an extra day at Meteora, it’s totally worth it, as there is a lot to see.

Here are three highly rated Meteora tours:

Day trip to Meteora from Athens
Two-day trip to Meteora from Athens , with overnight in Kalambaka
Two-day tour from Athens including Meteora and Ancient Delphi , with overnight in Kalambaka

If you have several days, you could also hire a car and drive there yourself, and explore more of Thessaly. You can book your rental car here: Discover Cars .

8. The cosmopolitan Greek island of Hydra

The Greek island of Hydra is another popular Athens day trip. The island is located in the Saronic Gulf, just a couple of hours away from Athens by ferry from Piraeus .

Hydra is one of the most picturesque Greek islands close to Athens, with narrow cobblestone streets, pretty architecture and a cosmopolitan feel. It’s also a car-free island, which makes it ideal for families and people who want to escape the city for a day.

Fun trivia: In 1957, the movie “Boy on a dolphin” was filmed in Hydra, as well as a few more places in Greece. It was one of the first movies about Greece , and it definitely helped to put Greece on the tourist map!

How to visit Hydra on a day trip from Athens

You can reach Hydra island by ferry from Piraeus port in Athens, and go on a walking tour on your own. There are many ferries per day, and the number of itineraries increases during peak season.

You can check routes and book your ferry tickets here: Ferryscanner .

Another option is to take a full day sailing trip to Hydra , which also stops at two more islands, Aegina and Poros. With this mini-cruise, you will experience three islands close to Athens, without having to think about the logistics.

Hydra island is an easy day trip from Athens

9. The low-key Greek island of Agistri

Agistri is another island close to Athens. Like Hydra, it’s located in the Saronic Gulf, and it’s only an hour away on the ferry from Piraeus port in Athens. This makes it a good choice if you are looking for Athens excursions to nearby islands.

This low-key island is ideal for travelers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature. There are a few really stunning beaches, which you can easily reach on foot, by public bus or by bicycle.

I’ve been to over 60 of the Greek islands, and I still remember how beautiful the beaches were in Agistri. Given its proximity to Athens, it’s an ideal destination if you want to spend some beach time!

How to visit Agistri from Athens

You can easily reach Agistri by ferry from the port of Piraeus. There are several ferries per day, taking only an hour to reach the small island, so you only have to select the time that suits you the most.

Book your ferry tickets here: Ferryscanner .

Another option is to take a sailing cruise that also stops at Aegina island, and also takes you to Moni, an tiny uninhabited island with more gorgeous beaches!

You can book it here: Sailing cruise from Athens to Aegina and Agistri

Tip: If you have a choice, try to avoid the weekends, as this is when many Athenians also go to Agistri and Aegina. It’s best to go on a weekday instead.

10. A day out to Marathon and Ancient Ramnous

Few visitors venture out of Athens to see the sites of Marathon and Ancient Ramnous, which are about an hour and a half’s drive from the Greek capital. Which is a shame, as this region is quite unspoiled and you won’t see too many tourists!

Marathon is a small village with a fascinating background. This is where the Battle of Marathon, between the Persians and the Ancient Greeks, took place back in 490 BC. It is one of the most important battles in ancient Greek history, as the Greeks won, although they were greatly outnumbered by the Persians.

The Athens Marathon Race is organized every November as a tribute to the legendary ancient Greek messenger Pheidippides, who brought the victorious news all the way to ancient Athens. Visitors can learn more about the race, and see old medals and rare exhibits, in the Marathon Run Museum. The Marathon Archaeological Museum is also nearby.

If you are in the area, you should also visit the ancient city of Ramnous, an incredible archaeological site where you can see fascinating ruins of several ancient houses. Make sure to bring water and perhaps a couple of snacks, as there’s nothing nearby!

How to visit Marathon and Ancient Ramnous from Athens

The easiest way to visit Marathon and Ramnous is by rental car . Driving along the Marathon route is quite easy and you can take a break at the unspoiled, wild Schinias beach .

On your way back to Athens, you can stop at the coastal area called Nea Makri for a snack or dinner. This is a popular destination for Athenians during summer, and there’s a nice coastal promenade where you can walk, with plenty of traditional restaurants to choose from.

FAQ about Athens day trips

Here are a few questions readers have asked me in the past:

Where should I go on a day trip from Athens?

Some of the best day trips out of Athens include Ancient Delphi, Nafplion, Ancient Epidaurus, Ancient Mycenae, the temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, the Meteora monasteries, and the Saronic islands.

Can Santorini be a day trip from Athens?

In theory, you could visit Santorini on a day trip from Athens. Flights from Athens to Santorini (and vice versa) only take 50 minutes each way. It’s better, however, to allow for more time on Santorini.

Is a day trip to Delphi worth it?

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Delphi is one of the most interesting archaeological sites in Greece. It’s absolutely worth a day trip from Athens.

What is the prettiest town in Greece?

Some of the prettiest towns in Greece include Nafplio, Chania, Rethymno, Rhodes town, Symi, Naxos town, Ioannina, Kavala and Thessaloniki.

How many days is enough in Athens?

If you only want to see the main sights in Athens, such as the Acropolis and the Acropolis museum, even a couple of days are enough. But if you want to fully experience the city, you should aim to spend much longer.

Have a look at these guides about Athens:

How to spend 2 days in Athens and Greece
A 3-day itinerary for Athens
Best things to do in Athens
Hottest Greek islands in October

Which island is easiest to get to from Athens?

The easiest islands to get to from Athens include Aegina, Agistri, Hydra and Poros. Several ferries depart from Piraeus port on a daily basis to all of these islands. You can book your ferry tickets on Ferryscanner .

Also, have a look at this article about islands close to Athens .

The Best Day Trips from Athens

Athens is a feast for the sights and senses, but its attractions aren’t bound by the city limits. From luxury cruises around the islands dotting the Saronic Gulf, through to hikes in national parks, here’s our pick of the best day trips within easy reach of the capital.

1. visit the centre of the ancient world at delphi.

Historical Landmark

Panoramic view of Athena Pronaia Sanctuary at Delphi

As one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, Delphi is a classic day trip to take from Athens . The ancient Greeks once considered this the centre of the world, visiting to communicate with the Gods at the Temple of Apollo. The temple lies remarkably preserved on the hillside, and there is an ancient theatre and a stadium to explore as well. This day trip also grants visitors access to archaeological treasures inside the museum of Delphi and a quick detour to the spectacular mountain village of Arachova.

2. Take a train to the monasteries of Meteora

Historical Landmark, Natural Feature

The monasteries of Meteora (showing the Holy Monastery of Roussanou in the foreground), Greece

Let yourself be whisked away via train towards the centre of Greece with this day tour to the monasteries of Meteora . Perched precariously on top of tall sandstone mounds, these famed Byzantine monasteries dominate the landscape and offer a step back in time. There are six monasteries to explore, all of them collectively designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. As one of the most-visited attractions in the country, the site has a captivating ambience – the sheer ingenuity of the architecture and spiritual atmosphere never fails to leave visitors in awe.

3. Brush up on your history in the Argolis Peninsula

Historical Landmark, Archaeological site

If you’ve visited all of Athens’s ancient sites – and there’s a lot – then you may also enjoy the Argolis Peninsula, home to a high concentration of historic sites and within easy distance of the city. This day tour takes in some of the most important sites, starting with the Corinth Canal, an impressive feat of engineering with origins dating all the way back to the 7th century BC. Next up is the town of Epidaurus, home to an ancient theatre and fascinating archaeological museum, before finishing in Mycenae with a visit to the fortress of the mythical Agamemnon, the hero of the Trojan War.

5. Enjoy some sun and sand at Cape Sounion

The sun setting at Cape Sounion over the Temple of Poseidon

Cape Sounion is a small peninsula southeast of Athens, jutting out into the azure waters of the Saronic Gulf. With beautiful beaches and great views, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing day trip out of the confines of the city. But it’s not all sun and sand – perched on the edge of cliffs that plunge 65 metres (213 feet) into the sea is the Temple of Poseidon , an ancient site of worship. The grand white marble columns that remain stand as a testament to the ancient Greek civilisation and their prowess when it came to choosing locations for temples.

6. Get back to nature on a hike in Parnitha National Park

Park, Historical Landmark

Male deer at the road of Parnitha mountain

If you’ve grown weary of the hustle of the city and need a break in nature, the Parnitha National Park lies tantalisingly close to Athens – just 40km (25mi) north of the city. These mountains are covered in a sprawling forest of fir trees, filled with caves and wildlife, and dotted with plenty of great hiking trails. Don’t sweat too much though, because this day tour is a gentle introduction to the area, taking in a relaxing six-kilometre (3.7-mile) hike along mostly flat ground. Things get even more breezy as you enjoy a traditional Mediterranean lunch under the forest trees.

7. Go scuba diving in the Blue Hole

Natural Feature

Located south of Athens, the Blue Hole is a sea cave that burrows vertically down 30m (98ft) into the ocean floor. Resembling a man-made well, diving into this geological anomaly is an adventurous day trip that makes for a change from the historic attractions of Athens. At the very bottom is another dark opening: the beginnings of an uncharted and unexplored network of caves thought to be connected to the nearby Lake Vouliagmeni on the mainland. Your diving trip is recorded by the diving instructors, and the recording is available to take home, free of charge.

8. Sail along the Athenian coast

Dive off a yacht moored in a secluded cove

If you’ve ever dreamed about diving off a yacht moored in a secluded cove, then this half-day trip is for you. Taking off from the marina in Athens , the expert sailing crew navigate guests along the Athenian coast, stopping along the way for plenty of swimming and snorkelling opportunities. Back on board, snacks await after your dip in the ocean, and if you’re interested, the skipper will happily teach you the basics of sailing; very handy if you’re planning on buying your own yacht and living the idyllic Greek lifestyle.

This article is an updated version of a story created by Ethel Dilouambaka.

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10 Best Day Trips from Athens + Tips from a Local

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Athens, a city rich in history and culture, is the perfect starting point for exciting day trips. As a local, I recommend exploring nearby gems that offer a blend of ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and unique cultural experiences.

Visit the majestic Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, a scenic drive along the coast. Delve into history at the ancient city of Corinth, or soak in the beauty of the Saronic Gulf islands like Aegina and Hydra.

Don’t miss the chance to experience the traditional Greek life in these places, with their local cuisine, markets, and warm hospitality. Each destination is a treasure trove of stories waiting to be discovered.

In a Nutshell

Cape Sounion sunset tour with a guide (best and closest to Athens)
Delphi guided tour (great for history lovers)
Nafplio, Epidaurus and Mycenae (enjoy history and a picturesque town)
Hydra, Poros, Aigina (3 islands in a day)

Best Day Trips from Athens: Explore on Your Own or Do a Tour?

We highly recommend renting a car in Greece to make the most out of your day trip. You will be more flexible and you can pick what you want to see along the route and for how long to stop.

We always use this search engine to find the best car rental deal. They compare all major companies, like Hertz, Sixt, Europcar, and more, and you get the lowest price. The earlier you book a car, the lower the price. You also get free cancelation up to 48 hours before pick up, which is great if anything happens

Search for rental car deals here

Good to know If you prefer to avoid driving, we have included the best tours for the most popular day trips from Athens.

It is possible to do most day trips by KTEL, the long-distance public buses, or by train, but usually the tours are more convenient. You will find all options listed, so you can make the best decision for you.

1. Temple of Poseidon & Cape Sounion

The Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, Greece

Recommended tour:.

Visit the Temple of Poseidon and explore the oldest theater in the world at Thorikos. Enjoy the amazing view and watch a stunning sunset over the Aegean Sea.
⭐️ RATING: 4.8/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5.5 hours | 💭 REVIEWERS say: Everything was amazing, I highly recommend this tour. Great value for money. | ✅ Book it!

When you visit the southeastern coast of Greece, don’t miss out on exploring Cape Sounion . Witness the majestic Temple of Poseidon. The Aegean Sea is named after the fateful fall of Aegeus into the sea.

If you’re staying in Athens for two days, then that’s enough just to see the main sights with our two-day itinerary in Athens city center . If you have an extra day in Athens, then I highly recommend adding a day trip to Cape Sounion !

Do you have more days in the Greek capital? Then check our extensive guide with the best things to do in Athens .

Tip This is one of the best day trips from Athens ! It’s just an hour’s drive from Athens, an easy day trip by the sea.

You can either take a day trip to the Temple of Poseidon or stay at one of the beachside hotels with a view of the temple. There are fish taverns nearby and beaches with clear waters, such as Sounion Beach and Kape. You’ll find all details in our guide on how to visit the Temple of Poseidon and things to do around there .

How to Get to Cape Sounion from Athens

Get a sunset tour at the Temple of Poseidon with an archaeologist guide. Sunset is the best time to visit the temple.
Rent a car and drive there. This is by far the best option, as you get to spend the day at the beach and enjoy your day trip the most. Read more about the best beaches and where to eat on our day trip guide on Cape Sounion.
You can get to Cape Sounion from Athens by KTEL, the long-distance public buses. There are three buses a day. You will find details on ktelattikis.gr . This is the cheapest way to visit the Temple of Poseidon, but you lose on flexibility.

Tip I highly recommend renting a car , as you get to stop wherever you want along the Athens Riviera for a swim! You will also have the flexibility to leave whenever you want and go swimming in nearby beaches.

Luxury : C ape Sounio Grecotel Boutique Resort
Midrange : Aegeon Beach Hotel

How to Get to Delphi from Athens

Delphi from Athens is about 3 hours drive. We highly recommend renting a car to have more flexibility.
You can take a bus from Athens Terminal Station – KTEL Liossion. You can find more details about the buses at KTEL Fokidas .
Alternatively, you can join a guided tour .

Join an organized tour from Athens to explore the charming town of Nafplio and the remarkable Theater of Epidaurus with a guide. Take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of Karathonas Beach.
⭐️ RATING: 4.8/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours | 💭 REVIEWERS say: Absolutely wonderful day! | ✅ Book it!

Explore the charming coastal town of Nafplio, where you can walk on cobblestone streets, and enjoy breathtaking views of the bay and harbor. Nafplio was the first capital of modern Greece, and it’s a perfect spot for an Athens day trip.

Here are the highlights that make Nafplio special:

Climb up to the Fortress of Palamidi
Visit the tiny fortress island of Bourtzi
Stroll around the cobblestone streets
Eat at the many small, family-run restaurants where you can try Greek dishes
Enjoy the lovely beaches with clear water
Walk along the picturesque harbor

Read also: The Best Greek Islands for Beaches, Ranked

Nafplio is just a short drive from Athens, so it’s perfect for a day trip. Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic getaway or just want to explore Greece’s beauty and history, Nafplio has it all.

How to Get to Nafplio from Athens

You can get to Nafplio by KTEL, the long-distance public buses. You can also visit Mycenae before Nafplio by KTEL, but you will have to walk for about 20 minutes to get to the site from where the bus left you and then back. It is NOT possible to combine Epidaurus by KTEL. Find more details at ktelargolida.gr .
Alternatively, you can rent a car for more flexibility.
A guided tour to Epidaurus, Mycenae and Nafplio is by far the best choice for this day trip.

Tip This is one of the most popular day trips, just a two-hour drive from Athens. Be sure to book in advance !

Take a photo of the Isthmus of Corinth and discover the wonders of the Kingdom of Agamemnon, including the fascinating Mask. Immerse yourself in history while visiting the ancient theatre of Epidaurus and the coastal city of Nafplio, the first capital of Greece. A guided tour is available shared or private.
⭐️ RATING: 4.8/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours | 💭 REVIEWERS say: Great! Very knowledgeable guide. Perfect amount of time to view each location. Amazing locations and a perfect way to see them! | ✅ Book it!

When you head to the northeast of the Peloponnese, get ready to step back in time to the legendary city of Mycenae. It’s an important place with a lot of history. The ruins of Mycenae show us how powerful and advanced this ancient civilization once was.

As you enter the site, the Lion Gate with its stone lion sculptures welcomes you. Keep exploring, and you’ll find the impressive Treasury of Atreus, an impressive beehive tomb built with advanced architecture techniques.

Read also: Traditional Greek Food Not to Miss

Not only is Mycenae historically significant, but it also offers stunning views of the countryside. No wonder they chose this spot as a fortified citadel – it had both strategic advantages and beautiful scenery.

And don’t forget about Greek mythology! You can learn about King Agamemnon and his role in the Trojan War during your visit.

How to Get to Mycenae from Athens

The easiest way is to visit with a guided tour or rent a car .
You can visit Mycenae by KTEL, the long-distance public buses of Greece. The bus will leave you about 20 minutes walk from the site and then you will need to walk back to catch it again to go to Nafplio. It is NOT possible to visit Epidaurus by KTEL. You can find details on ktelargolida.gr .

Read also: Best Neighborhoods and Hotels in Athens

5. Epidaurus

Take a photo of the Isthmus of Corinth and discover the wonders of the Kingdom of Agamemnon, including the fascinating Mask. Immerse yourself in history while visiting the ancient theatre of Epidaurus and the coastal city of Nafplio. A guided tour is available shared or private.

Epidaurus is home to one of the largest Ancient Theatres in Greece. It is a must-visit destination for theater enthusiasts. Located in the region of Argolis, this charming town offers much more than its famous theater.

The main highlight of Epidaurus is its ancient theater. It was built in the 4th century BC and its acoustics are remarkable. This well-preserved theater can seat up to 14,000 spectators. It still hosts performances today! Imagine sitting among the ancient Greeks as you watch a play or musical performance.

You can also visit the museum located within the site to learn more about the region’s past.

Read also: Best Family Hotels in Zakynthos

Epidaurus also boasts a charming nearby town with picturesque villages and beautiful beaches . Take a leisurely stroll through its narrow streets lined with traditional houses. Indulge in fresh seafood at local tavernas.

To make the most of your visit, consider joining a guided tour from Athens that includes Epidaurus as one of its stops. Usually, the guided tours include Epidaurus, Mycenae and Nafplio . This way, you won’t have to worry about transportation and you can fully enjoy the day trip.

How to Get to Epidaurus from Athens

The best way to visit Epidaurus is with a guided tour to Epidaurus, Mycenae, and Nafplio .
Alternatively, you can rent a car and plan your day as you like.
While you can visit Mycenae and Nafplio with some limitations by KTEL, the long-distance public buses, it is NOT possible to visit the theater of Epidaurus by KTEL. There is only a bus to the theater on the days with a show leaving Athens at 17.00. It’s also not possible to combine Epidaurus with Mycenae and Nafplio even on those days, as these are different routes by KTEL. You can find details on ktelargolida.gr .

6. Island of Hydra

Go on a fun day cruise from Athens to visit three islands: Hydra, Poros, and Aegina. On the cruise ship’s open deck, you can see the beautiful Greek coast.
⭐️ RATING: 4/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 12 hours | 💭 REVIEWERS say: Glorious day with a caring crew, well informed guide, and best cook ever! It was a day packed full of delicious food and breathtaking views, and good fun. | ✅ Book it!

Hydra is a peaceful Greek island getaway from busy Athens, and it’s perfect for a day trip. When you arrive by ferry, you’ll see a beautiful harbor with colorful buildings and traditional stone houses.

Tip A day trip to Hydra is a great way to spend a day on a Greek island away from Athens. Although it’s near Athens, it’s one of the best Athens day trips: it’s like you’re in another universe!

One special thing about Hydra is that there are no cars, making it even more serene. You can explore the island on foot or ride a donkey for a unique experience. With its charming architecture and lovely beach coves, Hydra is a popular destination to relax and enjoy nature in the Saronic Gulf.

How to Get to Hydra from Athens

The best way to maximize what islands you get to see is a guided tour of Hydra, Poros and Aegina .
Alternatively, you can get a ferry from the port of Piraeus – I’d recommend only going to Hydra in this case.

7. Island of Poros

Go on one of the most popular day tours from Athens to visit three islands: Hydra, Poros, and Aegina. On the cruise ship’s open deck, you can see the beautiful Greek coast.

When you arrive at Poros, get ready for a day full of beautiful beaches and ancient treasures. This lovely island is just a short ferry ride from Athens, making it a perfect day trip. You’ll be enchanted by its pretty buildings and calm beaches, which offer a nice break from the busy city.

Climb up to the Clock Tower to enjoy the panoramic view. You can also visit the Zoodochos Pigi Monastery. Love Bay and Askeli are the two most popular beaches.

A great thing about Poros is that it’s close to other islands. You can easily take a boat and visit Aegina or even go to Hydra for more island fun.

How to Get to Poros from Athens

8. island of aegina.

Go on a fun cruise from Athens to visit three islands: Hydra, Poros, and Aegina. On the cruise ship’s open deck, you can see the beautiful Greek coast.

As you step onto the shores of Poros, get ready for breathtaking beach views. And don’t forget to also explore its nearby neighbor, Aegina! There’s so much to discover on these beautiful islands!

Here are four reasons why Aegina should be on your list of must-visit day trips from Athens:

Aegina is a short ferry ride away from Piraeus port, making it easy to visit for a day trip from Athens.
You can explore the charming town, see historical places like the Temple of Aphaia, and try yummy local food at waterfront restaurants.
Whether you like ancient ruins or just want to relax by the sea, Aegina has something for everyone.

If you want to visit multiple islands in one day, join a tour that includes Hydra, Poros and Aegina . These tours usually have guided sightseeing, transportation between islands, and enough time to enjoy the beauty of each place. It’s a great way to see more in a single day!

How to Get to Aegina from Athens

Alternatively, you can get a ferry from the port of Piraeus.

Join an exciting half-day tour to Ancient Corinth! You’ll see the famous Corinth Canal, visit the town of Corinth with its ancient market place, and explore Apollo’s Temple.
⭐️ RATING: 4.6/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours | 💭 REVIEWERS say: Wonderful half day trip! Great experience to see the beautiful scenery on the way and have a wonderful tour of ancient Corinth. | ✅ Book it!

Now, let’s talk about another popular day trip from Athens: Corinth! It’s not far from Athens and has a mix of history and beautiful nature.

The easiest way to get there is to rent a car . It’s an easy day trip from Athens and takes about an hour. When you arrive in Corinth, you’ll find ancient ruins and stunning landscapes.

Corinth is a very important ancient city known for its wealth and strength. There are two main highlights to see: Acrocorinth, a fortified hill with amazing views, and the Ancient Corinth archaeological site, where you can explore well-preserved ruins like temples and theaters.

When you go to Corinth, you must see the incredible Corinth Canal. It’s a man-made canal that connects the Aegean Sea with the Ionian Sea. It’s an amazing engineering feat that lets ships avoid sailing around the Peloponnese Peninsula. It’s a landmark of engineering ingenuity!

Tip You can go bungy jumping from the Corinth Canal!

Afterwards, stroll around the modern city of Corinth. Loutraki is also pretty close if you’re looking for another seaside town in the area.

How to Get to Corinth from Athens

The easiest option is to go on a guided tour to Ancient Corinth with a stop at the Corinth Canal
Rent a car and explore the area around Corinth. This is also an easy option.
You can reach Ancient Corinth and the museum via the Athens Suburban Railway Network (Proastiakos) from Larissis Station, taking the route from Athens International Airport to Kiato Corinth and stopping at the Corinth station. There are trains about every hour and you can find details on the official website hellenictrain.gr . Then, once you’re in Corinth, you have to get a taxi or a local bus to Ancient Corinth
You can reach Corinth by KTEL, the long-distance public buses. You will find details on ktelkorinthias.gr . Then you will need to get a taxi to reach Ancient Corinth.

10. Meteora

Enjoy the panoramic views and snap pictures of Meteora. See all 6 monasteries in the area, exploring 3 of them, and make a stop at the Hermit Caves for a visit.
⭐️ RATING: 4.7/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 14 hours | 💭 REVIEWERS say: Such an amazing thing to see! The train ride was long but not too bad. I recommend bringing phone charger with European outlet as there were outlets on the train. | ✅ Book it!

Explore the awe-inspiring region of Metéora. Where monasteries perch atop towering rock formations with breathtaking views. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit as a day trip from Athens.

The must-visit monasteries are the Great Meteoron Monastery, the Varlaam Monastery, and the Holy Trinity Monastery.

If you stay for more than a day, we highly recommend hitting the hiking trails. Enjoy traditional Greek food at Kalambaka, the main town in the area.

Tip Meteora is 4 hours from Athens – and another 4 hours to get back to Athens. I highly recommend renting a car and staying for at least a night to get the most out of it!

How to Get to Meteora from Athens

Best option: Book a guided tour to Meteora – these tours also use trains, but then you have a minibus waiting for you at Kalabaka train station to take you to the monasteries and a guide to show you around. This is the most convenient option for a day trip (and probably the only option that makes sense for a day trip)
You can also rent a car . This is a good option if you are staying longer than a day and you can explore around. If you do have more time, drive from Athens to Delphi and spend the night there. Then continue to Meteora the following day.
Trains to Meteora leave from the Larissis train station in Athens. The stop is Kalabaka train station. See the official website hellenictrain.gr for schedules. The trip from Athens to Meteora by train takes about 4 hours. Try to take a direct train (IC). While it is possible in theory, I would not recommend this. You would need to book a taxi to take you to Meteora from Kalambaka and around.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to drive from athens to delphi.

The trip from Athens to Delphi is around 2.5 hours. The journey covers a distance of approximately 181 km on the National Greek Road, offering magnificent mountain views along the way.

What are some activities to do in Nafplio?

In Nafplio, you can wander through charming cobblestone streets, explore cute stores and family-owned restaurants, and soak in the secluded bay and harborfront views. Don’t miss the Archeological museum for a dose of history, Palamydi and the Bourtzi Castle.

How many monasteries are open for public visit in Meteora?

There are six monasteries open for public visits in Meteora. These impressive structures perched on top of rocks offer breathtaking views and activities like hiking and rock climbing. Don’t miss out on this unique experience!

What is the significance of Mycenae in Greek history?

Mycenae holds great significance in Greek history as it is associated with King Agamemnon and the Trojan War. It features iconic Greek landmarks such as the Lion Gate and the Treasury of Atreus, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

How can I get from Athens to Delphi?

You can take a bus from Athens Terminal Station – KTEL Liossion. You can find more details about the buses at KTEL Fokidas . Alternatively, you can join a guided tour . You can also rent a car .

How far is Delphi from Athens?

Delphi is about 180 kilometers from Athens. It’s best to take a full day to visit.

Is there a day cruise departing from Athens?

Absolutely! Popular destinations include Hydra, Poros and Aegina from Athens . It’s an amazing day experience.

I’m planning a trip to Greece. What are some amazing day trips?

Consider trips from Athens to Nafplio, Delphi, Corinth, or taking a day cruise to nearby islands like Hydra, Poros and Aegina. Athens is a great base to explore around!

Is there a train from Athens to Meteora for a day trip?

Yes, there are trains heading back to Athens after a day trip to Meteora. Trains to Meteora leave from the Larissis train station in Athens. See the official website for schedules. The trip from Athens to Meteora by train takes about 4 hours. Try to take a direct train (IC)!

Is there a half-day trip around Athens?

Yes, consider a half-day tour to archaeological sites in Greece close to Athens, such as the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, or a quick visit to a nearby destination for a day.

How often do ferries depart from Piraeus port to Hydra, Poros, and Aegina Islands?

Ferries from Piraeus port to Hydra, Poros, and Aegina islands depart multiple times per day. Enjoy the allegorical journey as you embark on a delightful island-hopping adventure, exploring stunning beaches, archaeological sites, and picturesque landscapes.

The Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounion

Best Time to Visit Greece | Tips from a Local
Best Traditional Food to Try in Greece

27+ Best Things to Do in Athens with Kids + Where to Stay

In this guide, you will find the best things to do in Athens with kids , where to stay and practical tips to help you plan ahead your family visit

Two Days in Athens with Kids -The Perfect Itinerary for First-Timers

2 Days in Athens with Kids: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Timers

This Athens two-day itinerary will help you make the most out of your visit with practical tips from a local + where to stay with kids

Read more: Two Days in Athens with Kids Itinerary

We’ll provide you with tips from a local on how to get to Cape Sounion, the best tours, the best beaches, and where to stay and eat .

More Greece Travel Guides

Athens with Kids
Two Days in Athens with Kids Itinerary
The Ultimate Guide to Hotels and Neigborhoods in Athens
Best Day Trips from Athens
Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon

Greek Islands

Best Greek Islands for Beaches, Ranked
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Greece Travel Tips

Greece Travel Guide
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Best Traditional Greek Food

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Travel Planning Resources

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🚕 Find airport pickup ⛴️ Book ferries 🚂 Find train tickets ⭐ Get travel insurance

Georgia Konidari is a nationally syndicated writer and the creator of World Wild Schooling, a digital platform dedicated to travel. She is on a mission to explore the globe and share her experiences with fellow travelers. She is regularly featured on MSN, the Associated Press Wire, and more. You can follow Georgia on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest and YouTube.

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14 Best Day Trips from Athens, Greece in 2024

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Home » 14 Best Day Trips from Athens, Greece in 2024

Have you been wondering best day trips from Athens? I’ve got you covered!

Athens, the magnificent capital of Greece, holds a rich history as the centerpiece of the Ancient Greek empire.

Even today, its landscape is adorned with iconic landmarks dating back to the 5th century BC.

As the largest city in Greece and its official Greek capital, Athens derives its name from Athena, the revered patron goddess.

Often referred to as “the city of the Violet Crown,” Athens exudes an enduring charm that captivates all who visit.

We spent 4 weeks traveling around Greece with our 6-year-old.

Whilst Athens isn’t one of our favorite destinations in Greece, it makes a great base for some incredible day trip destinations.

🏆 BEST DAY TRIPS FROM ATHENS

Don’t have time to read the whole article? The best choice is this full-day guided tour from Athens to Delphi Athens Delphi Site and Museum

Unveil captivating experiences and embark on unforgettable day trips from Athens with our ultimate guide.

As fellow passionate travelers, we understand the urgency of finding the perfect destinations.

Trust our expertise as we bring you the 14 best day trips from Athens, ensuring an exceptional journey of exploration and discovery.

Keep reading to be amazed!

Quick Guide: Best Day Trips from Athens

After a quick list of the top day trips from Athens? Here are the best day trips from Athens:

10-hour tour from Athens to Delphi

Duration: approx 10 hours
Type of Tour: full-day guided tour
Included: pick-up from the hotel

Best Day Trips from Athens, Greece, Aphaea Temple at Aegina Island Greece

All-day Cruise to 3 Islands

Type of Tour: Saronic Gulf to three islands on a spacious Greek sailing ship
Included: lunch, snacks, and drinks

Best Day Trips from Athens, Temple of Poseidon Greece

Half-day Tour to Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon

Duration: approx 4-5 hours
Type of Tour: Small group tour travel by minivan for 16 travelers
Included: hotel pick-up and drop-off within Central Athens

Best Day Trips from Athens

Here is your guide to the best day trips from Athens for wanderlust adventurers in search of unforgettable day trips from Athens.

Your sole mission is to select just one!

1. Athens Delphi Site and Museum

Best Day Trips from Athens, The Amphitheatre at the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, Greece

Tour Overview:

Tour Type: A full-day guided tour from Athens to Delphi with pick-up from accommodations within Athens
Guest Rating: 4.5 Stars (Reviewed by over 2000+ travelers)
Tour Sights & Stops: Oracle, ancient ruins like the amphitheater, Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia, Delphi Museum, the mountain village of Arachova, Temple of Apollo
Departure Point: Pickup is available from centrally located hotels or accommodations in Athens
Length: 10 hours
Check Tour Price on Get Your Guide

Discover the marvels of Athens with an enriching day tour that will transport you to the heart of ancient history.

Step into the sacred center of the ancient Greek world, where the mysteries of the Oracle await.

Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia and explore the renowned Delphi Museum , home to priceless treasures.

Along the way, pause for a picturesque photo stop in the charming mountain village of Arachova.

Experience a carbon-neutral tour that not only captivates your senses but also ensures an environmentally mindful adventure.

Best Day Trips from Athens, The Temple of Apollo in Delphi, Greece

Embark on this extraordinary journey and unlock the secrets of the Athens Delphi site and museum.

Travel smooth (driver Tomas), guide (Evan) very informative, but also very considerate – our trip was during heatwave when archaeological sites were being closed pm due to heat. Evan was concerned for individuals, lending his spare hat, sun umbrella, reminding about sun lotion, water, positioning group in as many shaded spots as possible. His knowledge was good and expected, but his care is what really stood out. The lunch stop is disappointing. At ‘Symposium’ which is next to nothing else… However, worth saying all the staff were very pleasant and accepting of our not eating a meal… K – United Kingdom (Read More Reviews on Get Your Guide ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Important Note:

– Hotel pickup and drop-off (only for hotels and accommodations within Athens)

– Licensed tour guide

– Headsets to hear the guide

– Delphi Archaeological site and Delphi Museum entry tickets (if option selected)

– Lunch (if option selected)

– Vegetarian option for lunch is available

– Bring a passport or ID card

– Please note that from November 1 to March 31, the visit to Athena Pronaia Sanctuary will not be available due to the restricted opening hours of the exhibition areas during the winter season.

– Access to Athena Pronaia during the summer season is subject to permission from the authorities. Please note that limited parking may restrict the ability to reach the site.

Why You Will Love This Tour:

Experience the wonders of the past in an eco-conscious journey.
Discover the captivating world of the Ancient Greeks and enjoy the breathtaking views of the majestic surrounding mountains.
Uncover the captivating narratives behind significant artifacts at the Museum of Delphi.

Experience the wonders of ancient Greece with the Athens Delphi site and museum tour.

This full-day guided excursion takes you on a journey through the most renowned sights, providing an immersive exploration of Greek mythology.

Perfect for travelers seeking a captivating day tour in Athens.

2. All Day Cruise to 3 Islands (Agistri, Mori and Aegina)

Tour Type: A full-day trip across the Saronic Gulf to three islands with lunch and drinks aboard a spacious Greek sailing ship
Guest Rating: 5 Stars (Reviewed by over 1600+ travelers)
Tour Sights & Stops: Islands of Agistri, Moni, and Aegina
Departure Point: You can head directly to the meeting point, (Marina Zeas DOCK J 14 Boat name: Calypso A, Calypso B, and Martika) or request pickup
Check Tour Price on Viator

Experience the enchanting allure of Greek island life with an extraordinary day cruise tour from Athens .

Embark on a picturesque sailing adventure across the stunning Saronic Gulf , unveiling the treasures of not just one, but three captivating islands.

Indulge in liberating moments of exploration as you soak up the vibrant atmosphere of each destination, with ample free time to wander and discover hidden gems.

Dive into crystal-clear waters, snorkel amidst colorful marine life , or simply relax in the sun-kissed beaches that call relaxation.

Best Day Trips from Athens, Greece, Moni Island from the top

Savor the culinary delights of Greece with a delectable Greek lunch served on the deck , accompanied by refreshing drinks and tempting snacks.

Create an unforgettable journey where you can truly experience the essence of island beauty in the most engaging and captivating way.

The crew was so jovial and pleasing. The ride was better than anticipated and offered truly breathtaking views. The boat was so comfortable and offered everything you could imagine. The staff shared information about each island and gave tips on sites to see. The lunch was delicious and the swimming was perfect for a hot day. Would recommend booking this trip. Shereen_L (Read More Reviews on Viator ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– Hotel pick up and drop off are not included unless booked with roundtrip transfers around Central Athens only.

– If accommodation is outside Central Athens, roundtrip transfers can be arranged with an additional fee.

– For an additional fee, they can make arrangements for transportation from the airport, seaside, or areas outside central Athens.

– Please make sure to arrive at the designated pickup point at least 5 minutes prior to your scheduled bus departure time.

– Please note that refunds will not be provided in the event of missing a tour or activity due to late or non-arrival.

– Coffee, juice, water, tea, and pastries are included for onboarding guests.

– Enjoy a delectable Mediterranean-Greek feast complete with traditional wine and beer, all included in the lunch experience (infant meals not included)

– A snorkeling mask is included

– Can cater to any specific dietary needs or preferences.

– Should the tour need to be canceled due to inclement weather, two alternatives are provided: rescheduling for a different date or a full refund of your payment.

– Optional Bike tour in Agistri (at extra cost)

Discover the perfect spot on deck to bathe in the warm Mediterranean sun as you journey through the enchanting islands of Agistri, Moni, and Aegina.
Take full advantage of designated stops along the way to indulge in the joy of swimming, snorkeling, and unwinding on picturesque beaches.
Savor refreshing beverages, and delectable snacks, and indulge in a generous Greek lunch while on board.

Embark on an extraordinary all-day cruise to three captivating islands: Agistri, Moni, and Aegina.

This lavish 10-hour journey ensures an unforgettable day tour in Athens, ideal for a minimum of 49 passengers.

As you come aboard, you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome complemented by a delightful selection of refreshments including coffee, juice, water, tea, and delectable pastries.

Join this cruise for an unparalleled experience and discover the epitome of island-hopping bliss.

3. Half-day Tour to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon

Tour Type: A half-day small group tour from Athens for a maximum of 16 travelers
Guest Rating: 4.5 Stars (Reviewed by over 1200+ travelers)
Tour Sights & Stops: Athens, Glyfada Beach, Lake Vouliagmeni, Sounio Beach, Temple of Poseidon
Departure Point: Pick up and drop off for accommodations within the range of the central Athens area only
Length: 4-5 hours

Embark on an unforgettable day tour in Athens, exploring the captivating route from Athens to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon.

Prepare to be captivated by the stunning beauty of Vouliagmeni Lake, one of Athens’ most photographed locations , where you’ll have the perfect opportunity to snap amazing photos.

Indulge in relaxation by the azure waters of the Aegean Sea, savoring refreshing drinks, and perhaps even a light meal.

For those visiting from April to September, take a plunge and enjoy a swim at the beach.

Best Day Trips from Athens, Greece, Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon

The last destination is the remarkable Temple of Poseidon, dedicated to the god of the sea, where a knowledgeable driver guide will share captivating insights about this ancient 5th-century B.C. temple.

Get ready for an engaging and enriching experience!

Unbelievable view from the Temple of Poseidon with a gorgeous sunset! Enjoyed a cool dip in the ocean at a nice beach just before going to the temple. We learned a lot about the area, Greek mythology, and history behind the temple from our wonderful guide, Thespina. A fantastic tour and highly recommended! Lisa_B (Read More Reviews on Viator ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– Hotel pickup and drop-off is included if the accommodation is within the range of Central Athens only.

– If are unable to access your hotel/apartment due to street narrowness or pedestrian areas, the nearest meeting point for convenient pick-up will be designated.

– Pick-up time starts 40-50 minutes prior to departure.

– Transport by air-conditioned minivan with tour escort/host

– The starting time of the tour may change depending on the sunset time of each month.

– Ideal weather conditions are necessary for this experience. In the event of unfavorable weather leading to cancellation, you will have the option to choose an alternative date or receive a full refund.

– A minimum number of travelers is required on this tour. In the event that this is not met and the experience is canceled, you will have the option to choose an alternative date/experience or receive a full refund.

Embark on a seamless journey from Athens to Cape Sounio in the comfort of a minivan. Experience utmost convenience as you explore the beautiful scenic route.
Unwind by the tranquil waters of the Aegean Sea and indulge in refreshing beverages, beer, or a light meal.
Take a plunge into the inviting beach for a swim (Accessible from April to September).

Experience the breathtaking Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon tour, offering a half-day excursion for small groups of up to 16 travelers.

Enjoy the convenience of comfortable transport in an air-conditioned minivan, perfect for those seeking an unforgettable day tour in Athens.

4. Meteora Day Trip by Train

Meteora Monasteries in Greece, family photo with monastery in background

Tour Type: A full-day UNESCO World Heritage Site tour from Athens with a local guide and roundtrip train ticket and lunch
Guest Rating: 4.6 Stars (Reviewed by over 1000+ travelers)
Tour Sights & Stops: 8 monasteries and Hermit Caves
Departure Point: Take Athens train station (Larissis Station to Kalabaka Station) then meet your guide at Kalabaka station
Length: 14 hours

Experience the magic of a day trip from Athens to Meteora by train.

Let a knowledgeable local guide take you on a captivating tour of this stunning area.

Convenient pickup and drop-off at Kalabaka train station and an air-conditioned bus to get around Meteora make this journey seamless.

Indulge in a delicious Greek lunch at a restaurant exclusively reserved for you.

Immerse yourself in the rich history and spirituality as you see 8 monasteries and visit three of them , and catch a glimpse of the monk’s way of life.

Meteora Greece - view from the rock lookout of the mountain in Meteora, family photo

Embark on this adventure and create unforgettable memories in an enchanting and engaging setting.

I booked the trip last minute the night before, but they sent me the train tickets and instructions right away. Spiros and Clement were a great team. They kept us on track so we had time to see everything and still make sure to catch our train back, gave good informative background with some interesting stories, and were always checking to make sure everyone was ok and enjoying the trip. 10/10 would do again and recommend! Daniela – United States (Read More Reviews on Get Your Guide ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

– Roundtrip train tickets from Athens to Meteora are included.

– 2 courses lunch is included (vegetarian option available)

– Expert local tour guide joining you on the bus.

– Please note that the entry fees for the three monasteries are not included. (€3 per person in cash)

– Please dress appropriately as you are visiting monasteries, no shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless shirts.

– You also have the option to upgrade your seats to first-class tickets, subject to availability.

– You will receive your train e-tickets via email either 4 days prior to your trip or immediately for last-minute reservations.

– The period from April to June is widely regarded as the prime season for embarking on this captivating tour..

Experience an all-inclusive journey and indulge in a delectable Greek lunch of exceptional quality while on your trip.
Enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free journey, where every step ensures a seamless transportation experience. Experience a multilingual tour with guides fluent in Spanish, English, Greek, French, and German languages.
Savor the enchanting countryside of Greece during the approximately four-hour trip there and back.

The Athens Meteora day trip offers a comprehensive experience for travelers seeking a full-day tour from Athens.

Varlaam Monastery Meteora, Greece, a couple selfie photo with monastery in the background

With the expertise of a local guide, seamless roundtrip train tickets, and the option for private or small group tours, visitors can embark on a memorable journey to explore the wonders of Meteora.

5. Hydra, Poros and Aegina Day Cruise from Athens

Best Day Trips from Athens, Greece, Hydra Island

Tour Type: A full-day cruise from Athens with lunch onboard and discover three beautiful Greek islands Hydra, Poros, and Aegina
Guest Rating: 4 Stars (Reviewed by over 1100+ travelers)
Tour Sights & Stops: Aegina Waterfront, Poros Island, Flisvos Marina, Hydra Island
Departure Point: Pick-up at Amalia Hotel for clients with prepaid transfer from/to port, for Vip service, communicate your address in order to inform you of the pick-up point and time.
Length: 11 hours

Experience the ultimate day tour in Athens with the Hydra, Poros, and Aegina cruise !

Embark on a full-day adventure, soaking in the beauty of these stunning islands. Explore Hydra, Poros, and Aegina at your own pace, immersing yourself in their unique charms.

For a deeper cultural experience, opt for a guided trip to the awe-inspiring Temple of Aphaia on Aegina Island.

Indulge in a sumptuous Greek lunch served aboard the ship, savoring the flavors of Greece.

Elevate your experience to VIP status, enjoying exclusive lounge access, a welcome drink, and the convenience of a shared transfer from your hotel to the port.

With private check-in, embrace a seamless journey.

Best Day Trips from Athens, Greece, Poros Island

Discover, unwind, and create unforgettable memories on this captivating day cruise.

We opted for the VIP upgrade and it was amazing. We only shared the VIP section with maybe 20 passengers, it was so comfortable and we loved being the 1st off the ship to see all the lovely stops. I felt the time at each stop was perfect as we covered a lot in 11 hours. The food was good, the show was enjoyable and the shop on board had nice selections. I would highly recommend this tour. It was certainly a highlight of our trip! Susan_B (Read More Reviews on Viator ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– Standard Cruise with transfer option includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off. (you can check the hotels’ list)

– Pick-up and drop-off from Athens hotels and apartments with a minivan for VIP option.

– Finger food, unlimited bottled water, soft drinks, and filter coffee are available for VIP options.

– You also have the option to enjoy a guided excursion to Egina’s ancient Temple of Aphaia, available at an additional cost.

Explore three breathtaking islands in just one day!
Indulge in a delectable Greek lunch served in the ship’s restaurant.
Stroll along the charming narrow lanes, unwind while savoring a cup of coffee, or indulge in the joy of shopping for souvenirs in the delightful little shops.

Experience the ultimate day tour in Athens with the Hydra, Poros, and Aegina day cruise.

This exclusive tour offers travelers the opportunity to explore three enchanting islands in one day.

Choose between VIP or standard cruise options, ensuring a remarkable journey for all.

Discover the beauty of these islands and create unforgettable memories during your visit to Athens.

6. Bus Trip to Mycenae, Epidaurus and Nafplio

Best Day Trips from Athens, Greece, Nafplio Island

Tour Type: A full-day bus trip visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the ancient Mycenae, the ancient theater of Epidaurus, and the coastal city of Nafplio.
Guest Rating: 4.8 Stars (Reviewed by over 600+ travelers)
Tour Sights & Stops: Isthmus of Corinth, Archaeological Site of Mycenae, Nafplio, Epidaurus
Departure Point: Meet your trip guide outside the Halandri Metro Station (Blue Line)

Enjoy a captivating day tour from Athens to Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Nafplio.

Join your friendly guide, an expert archaeologist, at the Halandri Metro station, and hop on a comfortable bus.

Let the ancient city of Mycenae unfold before your eyes as you explore its archaeological park, passing through the monumental Lionesses Gate and discovering the fascinating Ancient Treasure of Atreus, also known as King Agamemnon’s Tomb.

Delight in the awe-inspiring Palace and the renowned Gold Mask of Agamemnon.

Afterward, indulge in a delightful traditional Greek lunch in the enchanting seaside city of Nafplio, adorned with attractions like the Castle of Bourtzi, the Acronauplia, and the majestic Castle of Palamidi atop the hill.

Finally, immerse yourself in the rich ancient Greek history of the ancient theater of Epidaurus.

Best Day Trips from Athens, Ancient Theater Epidaurus

Join this tour for an engaging journey of discovery and adventure.

Epidarus was more than the incredible amphitheatre. It’s situated within the Sanctuary of Asclepius, which deserves more attention. Nafplio was beautiful with excellent port-side seafood restaurants. Mycenae was awesome, although climbing to the top of its citadel in 34 degree heat under an unrelenting sun as the last event of a long day was challenging. This was a great day trip, well worth the time and money. Jeremy – Canada (Read More Reviews on Get Your Guide ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– Youths up to 18 years old and students within the European Union can enjoy complimentary entry to the archaeological site and museum.

– European Union citizens aged over 65 and students from Higher Education Institutes outside the European Union are eligible for a discounted entrance fee of 50%.

– Please note that the entrance fees for the archaeological site and museum of Mycenae, Ancient Epidaurus, Castle of Bourtzi, the Acronauplia, and the Castle of Palamidi are not included in the tour package and will be your own responsibility.

Take a tour of Mycenae, known as the most prominent and prosperous kingdom during the later Bronze Age, circa 1350 B.C. Explore its greatness and richness firsthand.
Indulge in a delightful traditional Greek lunch amidst the scenic beauty of Nafplio, a captivating seaside city.
Discover the captivating allure of Nafplio, and delight in the charm of the city center, adorned with picturesque squares.

Experience a captivating 10-hour tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Nafplio , all while enjoying the comfort of a bus.

Explore these renowned destinations on a day trip from Athens, immersing yourself in their rich history and cultural significance.

7. Corinth Half-day Trip from Athens

Tour Type: A half-day morning tour to ancient Corinth on a comfortable, air-conditioned coach for a maximum of 49 travelers
Guest Rating: 4.5 Stars (Reviewed by over 170+ travelers)
Tour Sights & Stops: Corinth Canal, Ancient Corinth (Archaia Korinthos)
Departure Point: Leof. Vasilisis Amalias 10
Length: 6 hours

Experience the Corinth half-day tour from Athens – a perfect choice for travelers seeking a captivating day tour in Athens.

Immerse yourself in the wonders of the ancient times of Corinth with a mesmerizing morning tour, which includes a scenic coastal drive to the iconic Corinth Canal.

Best Day Trips from Athens, Corinth Canal in Greece

Delve into history as you explore the archaeological site of ancient Corinth, with a short but intriguing stop at Kehreai.

To enrich your journey further, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the newly renovated Museum of Ancient Corinth, where you’ll discover captivating artifacts that bring history to life.

Embark on this engaging adventure and unravel the treasures of ancient Corinth!

The host shared great history and religious history of Corinth and Apostle Paul. We took the trip for biblical and Christian history reasons, but any interest would be welcome and comfortable on this trip. Quick and easy pickup and drop-off, plus reasonable amounts of time in both locations. The guided tour of the ancient site and the free time there were a perfect balance. Karl_S (Read More Reviews on Viator ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– Hotel pickup is available exclusively at selected hotels.

– Admission ticket to the archaeological site and museum of Ancient Corinth is included.

– To avail of the discounted price, children and students between the ages of 5 and 18 are required to present a valid passport or identification. Failure to do so will result in the purchase of an entrance ticket to access archaeological sites or museums.

Take time to wander through the ancient temples, bathhouse, forum, theater, and bema, a sacred stone platform where it is believed that St. Paul once stood before an assembly of judges.
Take a moment to marvel at the scenic Corinth Canal, a narrow waterway from the 19th century that connects the sparkling Saronic Gulf of the Aegean Sea to the majestic Ionian Sea.
Experience a delightful journey aboard an air-conditioned coach, and indulge in the picturesque sights as you travel from Athens to Corinth along the breathtaking shores of the Saronic Gulf.

Experience the Corinth half-day trip from Athens , a delightful 6-hour morning tour.

Journey comfortably in a coach with a maximum capacity of 49 travelers.

This excursion is perfect for those who seek to explore the wonders of Athens on a day tour.

8. Private Biblical Tour of Ancient Corinth and Isthmus Canal

Best Day Trips from Athens, Greece, Temlpe of Apollo

Tour Type: An 8-hour fully private tour to historic Corinth via private first-class vehicle
Guest Rating: 5 Stars (Reviewed by over 500+ travelers)
Tour Sights & Stops: Corinth Canal, Akrokorinthos, Ancient Corinth (Archaia Korinthos), The Diolkos, Kechries
Departure Point: The designated tour driver will conveniently chauffeur you from and to your Athens hotel
Length: 8 hours

Embark on a captivating journey through time with a private biblical tour of Ancient Corinth and the mesmerizing Isthmus Canal.

Designed for travelers seeking an enriching day tour in Athens, this unique experience delves into the historic treasures of Corinth, with a special focus on St. Paul and his influential biblical connections.

Immerse yourself in the ambiance of the very marketplace where St. Paul once addressed the Corinthians from the commanding podium.

Marvel at a magnificent church adorned with a stunning mosaic depicting St. Paul’s profound conversion.

And be transported to the significant site of Kechries, where Paul chose to have his hair shorn.

Join this engaging exploration that combines rich history, spirituality, and unforgettable moments of reflection.

Best Day Trips from Athens, Castle of Acrokorinth, the acroppolis of ancient Corinth in Peloponnese, Greece

LOVED Corinth! George our Driver was VERY knowledgeable and informative about everywhere he took us – he was awesome. Christine our Guide was excellent in the Museum and Ancient Corinth- both very accommodating to our 97 yr old mother Seeing the Isthmus Corinth Canal… Traditional Greek Lunch by the Sea -AAKYONIAEE- was delicious! Ancient Corinth Archaeological Museum: These were amazing archaeological finds -artifacts from sculptures to children’s toys. The medical section was fascinating – What touched our hearts was getting to stand at the Berma/podium where the Apostle Paul addressed the Corinthians. After learning all the back history of what Paul was up against in bringing the Gospel to the Corinthians the Word takes on even more meaning. Temple of Apollo – it was Ancient port of Kechries on the Saronic sea-.the place where Apostle Paul left Corinth to head to Ephesus – I got to walk around there – WOW Forever memories my family will treasure- thank you George and Christine! Patricia_G (Read More Reviews on Viator ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– Hotel/Port pick-up and drop-off service included.

– Admission fees for the site and museum are not included in the package.

– Airport pick-up and drop-off services for an additional fee are available upon request.

– Guests can request licensed tour guides to accompany them into the site and museum at an additional cost.

Enjoy the convenience of a private tour/activity with pickup and drop-off from Athens or Corinth.
Experience the ease and flexibility of the exclusive services as you explore the wonders of these captivating destinations.
Gaining a cultural understanding of the country was truly enriching and valuable.

Experience the wonders of Ancient Corinth and the Isthmus Canal on a private biblical tour .

Delve into the rich history with an 8-hour exclusive excursion, tailored just for your group.

This personalized journey offers unparalleled flexibility and comfort, ensuring an unforgettable day tour in Athens.

9. Private Tour with Greek Lunch (Corinth, Caves of Lakes, Odontotos Railway)

Best Day Trips from Athens, Greece, Odontotos Railway

Tour Type: A private full-day tour of Corinth with lunch in the comfort of a private vehicle.
Guest Rating: 5 Stars (Reviewed by over 130+ travelers)
Tour Sights & Stops: Corinth Canal, Ancient Corinth (Archaia Korinthos), Acrocorinth (optional), Cooperative Winery of Nemea (optional), Kalavrita, Kastria Cave of the Lakes, Mega Spileo Monastery (optional), Odontotos Rack Railway
Departure Point: Any Athens hotel or Airbnb, the Athens airport, Piraeus, and Nafplio port (Additional charges may apply for locations outside the center of Athens.)

Experience the ultimate day tour in Athens with a private guide and transportation, accompanied by a delightful Greek lunch.

Uncover the highlights of the Peloponnese as you explore the fascinating archaeological remains and marvel at the enchanting crystalline formations in the legendary Cave of Lakes.

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery as you ride the Odontotos Rack Railway along the awe-inspiring Vouraikos Gorge.

Indulge in a mouth-watering Greek lunch in a charming mountain village.

To top off your journey, choose to visit the captivating Ancient sites of Corinth, a renowned winery, or the enchanting Mega Spilaio Monastery.

Unlock the wonders of Greece in an engaging and unforgettable adventure.

This trip is so well planned and organized. We were in contact contact prior to work out details. Our guide Theo was so pleasant to hang out with all day. He was very knowledgeable and thoughtful. The car was immaculate and he was a safe driver. All the details! From plenty of bottled water and even cookies to give us energy on our climb. He always told us how much time prior and what to expect. Each stop breath taking. We learned so much and truly enjoyed his company. Our 10 year son did as well… I would certainly tell everyone to do this tour. The Pelonpenese is gorgeous and every single detail was well planned and perfect. Jennifer_T (Read More Reviews on Viator ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– Hotel pick-up and drop-off is included.

– Tour guide is optional.

– Please note that the Cave of Lakes, Odontotos Railway, and Corinth tickets are not included in the tour package and will be at your own expense.

Indulge in a delightful Greek lunch accompanied by refreshing drinks, all while enjoying the breathtaking views from the mountaintop.
Experience the utmost convenience of a personalized tour or activity, complete with seamless pickup and drop-off services in Athens.
Enjoy the exclusivity of a private tour, where you are accompanied by a knowledgeable and dedicated guide/driver.

Experience the ultimate exploration of Mediterranean beauty on a full-day private tour, exclusively tailored to your group.

Discover the captivating Corinth and indulge in a delectable Greek lunch.

This exclusive excursion is perfect for travelers seeking a unique and unforgettable day tour in Athens.

10. Full-day Tour to Thermopylae, Meteora, and Delphi

Father and Daughter on the rocky viewpoint at Meteora, Greece

Tour Type: A full-day private group tour to three of Greece’s top historic sites with pick-up and round-trip transportation from Athens
Guest Rating: 5 Stars (Reviewed by over 70+ travelers)
Tour Sights & Stops: Battlefield of Thermopylae, Roussanou Monastery, Delphi, Distomo Massacre Memorial, Bournazi Square
Departure Point: Convenience of customer pickup services throughout the Athens region, tailored to the customer’s preference.

Embark on an unforgettable full-day tour from Athens that combines the rich historical treasures of Thermopylae, Meteora, and Delphi.

Delve into the fascinating Innovative Centre of Historical Information at Thermopylae and catch a glimpse of the iconic Statue of Leonidas.

Marvel at the breathtaking monasteries perched atop towering 1000-foot rocks in Meteora, including the Holy Monastery of Varlaam, Rousanou, and the Holy Trinity.

Take a leisurely coffee break in Kalabaka and soak in the beauty of the stone villages of Arachova.

Indulge in a visit to the captivating Archaeological Museum of Delphi.

And to conclude this incredible journey, satiate your taste buds with delectable Greek cuisine including grilled meats, fish, salads, desserts, and a wide selection of refreshing beverages, in the charming ambiance of a traditional Greek taverna.

Join the fun of this fascinating and captivating experience!

Our tour guide driver, Pantelis was just wonderful. Great clean comfortable Mercedes. Great driving is around. Incredible experience. Views were spectacular and he was just so knowledgeable about every site. He got us through all three experiences in just one day. Would have missed so much if it were not for our guide. Then dinner too. The restaurant was great authentic Greek cuisine. Simple , good and way too much to eat in one sitting. We were the only tourist at the restaurant, just locals and us. Could not have asked for a better day. Shawn_H (Read More Reviews on Viator ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– They’re not authorized to conduct guided tours within monuments and historical sites.

– Tickets for the monuments are not included in this tour package.

Discover the rich heritage of Greece without the hassle and make the most of your time exploring the iconic landmarks.
Experience the delights of a charming Greek taverna, where you can indulge in exquisite Greek cuisine.
Explore the charming stone villages of Arachova, offering picturesque scenery and delightful opportunities for capturing memories and purchasing souvenirs along the way.

Experience the wonders of Greece on our full-day tour to Thermopylae, Meteora, and Delphi.

This private tour/activity offers the perfect opportunity to explore three of Greece’s top historic sites in a single day.

Enjoy convenient pick-up and round-trip transportation from Athens, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

Join this unforgettable day tour in Athens, exclusively tailored to your group.

11. Mykonos Day Trip with Ferry Tickets

Tour Type: A day trip guided tour from Athens to Mykonos Island with a ferry transfer
Guest Rating: 4.4 Stars (Reviewed by over 100+ travelers)
Tour Sights & Stops: Mykonos, Matoyiannia
Departure Point: Pickup from the hotel in Athens
Length: 1 day
C heck Tour Price on Get Your Guide

Experience the perfect day trip to Mykonos from Athens! Start by embarking on a fast ferry to this captivating island.

Once there, immerse yourself in the charming ambiance as you embark on a scenic 60-minute photo-walking tour amidst the enchanting whitewashed houses and maze-like alleyways of Mykonos.

Explore the picturesque Little Venice and make your way up to the hill adorned with iconic windmills.

Take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant Matoyiannia neighborhood, a haven for high-end shopping.

Indulge in a delectable lunch at a local traditional restaurant or take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters.

It’s a day filled with unforgettable moments and endless delights.

There were some unpredictable events that impacted the tour like the speed boat breaking and the tour scheduled a plane instead and then once in the island we could only return by plane since the sea was too agitated. We had to pay extra for the return flight (half paid by us and half by tour company) but I think all of these were well communicated and managed. We loved the island, every little corner has its charm and beauty. Food was also pretty good! Our guide Iloana did an outstanding job of guiding us through the island, leading us to another beach by bus (which was awesome) and made sure everyone in the group was having a good time. Paulo_Canada (Read More Reviews on Get Your Guide ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– Hotel pickup and drop-off from accommodations within Athens only.

– The package includes a ferry ticket.

– The tour guide is provided as part of the package.

– Visitors are responsible for covering the entrance fees for archaeological sites.

– The early pickup is around 5:00 AM.

– All passengers must provide a valid passport or ID for the tour.

Indulge in the captivating allure of Mykonos, and experience the charm of this enchanting Greek island on a guided tour.
Take a leisurely stroll to the charming Matoyiannia neighborhood, renowned for its exquisite high-end shopping experience.
Indulge in a delightful lunch at a charming local traditional restaurant or take a break and refresh with a swim.

Experience the enchanting beauty of Mykonos on a day trip , complete with ferry tickets and a knowledgeable guide.

Allow travelers in Athens to indulge in a memorable day tour, immersing themselves in the allure of Mykonos.

12. Private Full-day Tour to Lake and Temple

Best Day Trips from Athens, Greece, Lake Vouliagmeni

Tour Type: A full-day tour ancient Greek temple and a beautiful lake via private transportation by executive car or minivan
Guest Rating: 5 Stars (Reviewed by over 40+ travelers)
Tour Sights & Stops: Lake Vouliagmeni, Vouliagmeni, Temple of Poseidon
Departure Point: Pick up from all hotels/accommodations in Athens
Length: 7 hours

Experience the ultimate Athens day tour with a private full-day excursion to the enchanting Lake Vouliagmeni and the awe-inspiring Temple of Poseidon.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Athens as you explore two captivating destinations in a single day.

Discover the serenity of Lake Vouliagmeni and indulge in the rejuvenating embrace of its healing thermal waters.

Afterward, prepare to be astounded by the grandeur of the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion.

This remarkable journey promises an unforgettable experience, combining relaxation, exploration, and the wonders of ancient Greece.

Easier than finding taxis at each leg of the trip, this tour offers a private guide. Lake Voulligmeni was a really unique experience and a great way to unwind after a few weeks of busy traveling throughout Greece. Select the 3:00 tour and you will be treated to one of the best sunsets anywhere at the Temple of Poseidon. Brian_G (Read More Reviews on Viator ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– The cost of entrance tickets to the Temple of Poseidon and Lake Vouliagmeni is not included and will be at your own expense.

– Licensed tour guide inside the Archaeological site is upon request and depending on availability.

– Service includes private transportation using executive cars or minivans.

Experience sightseeing without the hassle of crowded buses with this exclusive private tour.
Indulge in the rejuvenating embrace of healing thermal waters, providing an opportunity to rest, relax, and revitalize your body and mind.
Take your time to delight in the white-marble temple and immerse yourself in the breathtaking vistas of the Aegean from atop the cliffs.

Embark on an unforgettable full-day private tour to Lake Vouliagmeni and the Temple of Poseidon in Athens .

This exclusive experience offers stress-free transportation between the sites, ensuring a seamless day tour.

Discover the beauty of Athens while enjoying the comfort and privacy of a private tour. One of the best Athens day trips for sure.

13. Guided Train Trip to Mount Olympus

Best Day Trips from Athens, Greece, Hellenistic Theater at the archaeological site of Dion Mount Olympus

Tour Type: A full-day guided tour from Athens to Mount Olympus via train trip
Guest Rating: 4.8 Stars (Reviewed by over 10+ travelers)
Tour Sights & Stops: Ancient and historical sites such as the site of Dion, the Platamon Castle, Mount Olympus, the Bath of Zeus, and the village of Litochoro
Departure Point: Athens Railway Katerini Station
Length: 13 hours

Embark on an enchanting train journey to Mount Olympus , a treat for travelers seeking an immersive day tour experience of Athens.

Delight in an independent train ride, traversing the mesmerizing landscapes of mainland Greece.

Immerse yourself in history as you explore the captivating archaeological site of Dion, and marvel at the majestic Crusaders’ Castle of Platamon.

Take in the awe-inspiring sights of the Natural Park of Mount Olympus, where you can witness the famed Bath of Zeus.

Complete your adventure by exploring the charming village of Litochoro, adding a touch of allure to this captivating expedition.

This trip is worth taking. It is a nice break from the city. The train trip was long but comfortable. Our tour guide, Damian, met us at the train station in Katerina. He was knowledgable and very nice. We went to the archeological site in Dion. You are given a ticket and allowed to tour the site alone. Damian gave us good suggestions, and we enjoyed walking around the site on our own. The site is interesting, especially since they are still excavating. We had lunch at a small family restaurant in Dion. The food was great. At the castle we were only able to walk around the exterior, but Damian gave us great information, and we felt like we saw all we needed. Last was Mt. Olympus. We walked up to the Bath of Zeus. The stories are so interesting, and the views incredible. We ended up having to take a bus back because the train was booked. It was perfectly comfortable if a little longer than the train. GetYourGuide traveler – United States (Read More Reviews on Get Your Guide ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– The train ticket from Athens to Katerini and back is included in the package.

– Mount Olympus tour package includes a knowledgeable and experienced tour guide and tour transportation with minibus

– The entrance fees to the Dion archaeological site are not included and are at your own expense.

Experience the awe-inspiring archaeological site of Dion, where the ancient Greeks sought solace and worshipped the mighty gods of Olympus.
Visit the charming village of Litochoro and immerse yourself in the authentic local lifestyle.
Explore the medieval Platamon Castle grounds and be captivated by the breathtaking view of the Aegean Sea.

Experience the wonders of Mount Olympus on a captivating guided train trip.

This full-day tour caters to travelers seeking a deep connection with nature while exploring the beautiful landscapes near Athens.

Embark on a guided adventure to discover the enchanting beauty of Mount Olympus, a must-see destination for those yearning for an unforgettable day tour.

14. Day Cruise of the Saronic Islands

Best Day Trips from Athens, Greece, Hydra, one of the Saronic islands of Greece

Tour Type: A full-day cruise of the Saronic Gulf with lunch and a visit to 3 islands Hydra, Poros, and Aegina
Guest Rating: 4 Stars (Reviewed by over 80+ travelers)
Tour Sights & Stops: Hydra, Poros, and Aegina
Departure Point: In front of Athens Gate Hotel, Athens 117 42.
Length: 1 Day

Embark on an unforgettable day tour in Athens, where you’ll set sail on a luxurious cruise vessel for a full-day exploration of the mesmerizing Saronic Islands.

Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear azure waters of the Saronic Gulf as you discover the enchanting islands of Hydra, Poros, and Aegina.

Indulge in a delectable lunch on board as you soak up the breathtaking scenery.

For those seeking adventure, take an optional bus trip to the majestic Temple of Aphaea or bask in the sun on the pristine beaches of Aegina.

With the added convenience of pick-up and drop-off at your Athens hotel, this experience promises to be an engaging and exhilarating escapade.

I liked everyting- the cruise, the islands, the views.. if you need a calm day at sea this is the activity. I recommend choosing the optional trips at Hydra and Aegina, especially the latter where you get to see Alphea’s temple and St. Nectarius chirch- truly worth it. GetYourGuide traveler – Bulgaria (Read More Reviews on Get Your Guide ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– Complimentary hotel pick-up and drop-off service is available exclusively for locations in Central Athens.

– Island hopping cruise of the Saronic Islands with lunch included.

Set out on an enchanting voyage to discover the captivating islands of Hydra, Poros, and Aegina. Delve into the extraordinary charm and beauty that each of these islands possess.
Experience the pleasure of a delectable lunch while you enjoy a delightful cruise.
Enjoy the convenience of a seamless pick-up and drop-off service right at your doorstep in Athens.

Experience the enchanting Saronic Islands with a full-day cruise .

Discover the picturesque Hydra, captivating Poros, and alluring Aegina on a day tour in Athens.

Embark on an adventure that unveils the unique charm of these islands to travelers seeking a memorable day cruise.

FAQs About the Best Day Trips from Athens

Here are some answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the best day trips from Athens.

Yes, you can definitely take day trips to islands from Athens! Many visitors opt for day trips to nearby islands from Athens. It’s a popular choice, allowing them to explore the beauty of the islands while staying conveniently based in Athens.

If you’re searching for the most accessible island from Athens, look no further than Aegina . Merely an hour away from the Piraeus port, Aegina enchants visitors with its ancient temples, stone-built Byzantine churches, a charming port town, delightful local pistachio nuts, and an extended swimming season that lasts until late autumn.

Santorini in September, Greece - family at the view point at Fira Santorini, white buildings on the edge of the cliff, water down below

Traveling from Athens to Santorini for a day trip is not feasible without taking a flight. The journey by boat typically takes around 6 hours, making it impractical for a one-day tour. Therefore, to make the most of your time, consider opting for a flight instead.

Santorini in September, Greece - Oia Santorini, family posing for a photo, buildings and ruins of the castle in the background

The three closest islands to Athens, suitable for a day trip, are Aegina , Hydra , and Poros . Accessible by ferry, they offer perfect getaways from the bustling city life of Athens.

Plaka , Thissio , and Monastiraki are among the picturesque towns near Athens that you must explore. These areas boast undeniable beauty, making them essential destinations when visiting the city.

Final Thoughts on the Best Day Trips from Athens

Looking to experience exciting day trips from Athens? Look no further!

Discover the wonders awaiting you with our recommended tours:

Immerse yourself in ancient history with the One Day Athens Delphi Site and Museum tour .
Set sail on an unforgettable adventure with the All-Day Cruise to 3 Islands Agistri, Moni, and Aegina.
Embark on a half-day journey to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon.

With these incredible options, your day tour from Athens will be filled with awe-inspiring sights and unforgettable memories.

Don’t miss out! Dive deeper into the beauty of Greece by exploring our other captivating blog posts.

Happy travels!

Neoma Athens hotels with rooftop pools, Greece, rooftop pool, sun loungers and view of Acropolis

Andrzej Ejmont

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

7 Best Island Day Trips From Athens, Greece

Destinations
Greek Islands
News and Tips
Travel With Confidence

With so many islands to choose from, it’s often thought that to enjoy a Greek island experience one has to travel far from Athens by plane. This is not, however, necessarily true.

The Saronic Islands lie in the Aegean Sea, known as the Saronic Gulf, between Athens and the northeast coast of the Peloponnese. A cluster of smaller and lesser-known islands to the international tourist, they’re easily reached by ferry from the Port of Piraeus in sometimes less than an hour, making them perfect as a day trip or even weekend destination, and many Athenians have second homes there.

Once you’ve experienced the best things to see and do in Athens and the best food to try , come with me as I explore the Saronic Islands and more to showcase the best island day trips for you. Usually the best time to go is in the summer, yet despite the islands not being as touristy as other popular Greek islands, expect them to be busier at this time of year. For good weather that will allow you to take advantage of the variety of things to do, spring and fall are good, too.

If you’re considering a visit to any island that’s recommended for hiking, note that spring and fall are better times for your visit, and hikes on these islands can be quite strenuous. Always seek local advice before setting out.

We start with Salamis, the nearest island to Athens at just 12 miles away from the small Port of Perama, very near the main Athenian Port of Piraeus.

It’s often overlooked as a destination as it has a heavy shipbuilding industrial past, not a glitzy appeal — but it shouldn’t be. There are many nature walks to be had, and you’re bound to stumble across ancient antiquities, from the signposted monument of Kolones — a circular 4th-century stone funeral monument — to small stones with no indication of what they could be.

The fish market in Salamina, the island’s chief city, is an interesting place to witness local life, whereas the local Archaeological Museum — housed in a beautiful building that was the old elementary school — showcases Salamina’s historical past.

Although much of the island’s architecture has been replaced with new apartment blocks, the blue-framed, whitewashed house belonging to the famous Greek poet Angelos Sikelinos nestled by the sea is indicative of its past, and a great place to watch the sunset.

Pro Tip: Travel by car ferry (which operates every 15 minutes) from Perama on the mainland to Salamis. Journey time is 15 minutes.

Poros’s harbor is what will draw your eye initially to the island as you sail in. Poros Town is built amphitheatrically around the port — curved and rising from the ground up, surrounded by lush green pine forests.

The aesthetically pleasing neoclassical style buildings of the town are an attraction in themselves, as is the Clock Tower sitting atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the town and surrounding Saronic Gulf. It’s the local equivalent of Big Ben and a good place to take sunset pictures.

Despite its small size (19 square miles), Poros offers several small sandy beaches to relax on, but if history is your thing, you’ll appreciate the smattering of churches across the island, many with ancient frescos and relics, the most visited being the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigis — which also served as an orphanage to children born of men fighting the Greek Revolution of 1821.

Famed American novelist Henry Miller was moved upon seeing Poros when he visited in 1939, stating, “Coming into Poros gives the illusion of the deep dream. Suddenly the land converges on all sides and the boat is squeezed into a narrow strait from which there is no egress.” One could maintain that not much has changed since then.

Pro Tip: It takes a little longer to reach Poros — 2.5 hours by slow ferry from Port of Piraeus in Athens, or via hydrofoil in roughly an hour.

From pebbly beaches — one at the fishing village of Souvala in the north of the island with thermal hot springs that help rheumatic and dermatological problems — to the 500 B.C. Doric Temple of Aphaia Athena which, along with the Parthenon of Athens and Temple of Apollo at Delphi, makes up part of the Holy Triangle of Antiquity, to the Greek Orthodox Monastery of Nektarios, one of the largest in the Balkan region, much awaits you when you come to the Saronic island of Aegina.

Greeks and foreign tourists alike come to Aegina for day trips and weekend breaks and its lack of all-inclusive resorts makes it a popular destination for relaxing, sightseeing, and drinking a coffee along the waterfront.

With ancient sites, relaxing coves, and picturesque seaside villages, Aegina is a good choice for an island day trip from Athens.

Pro Tip: Both slow and fast ferries depart for Aegina almost every hour, and the journey time is between 30 minutes and one hour depending on which one you take.

Agioi Anargiroi, Agistri island, Greece.

Aegina’s smaller neighbor, Agistri is only 10 minutes from its big sister, and despite the fact it’s only 5 square miles and has just over 1,100 permanent residents spread out across its four villages, Agistri makes a perfect quiet island day trip.

As you enter the Port of Skala, the small blue-domed church of Agioi Anargyroi sits at the harbor’s edge ready to welcome you — it’s the first thing you’ll notice about Agistri. Skala also has a clean, organized beach with sunbeds and umbrellas, making it a popular spot to hop off the ferry and spend the day relaxing before taking the evening ferry back to Athens.

If you’re keen to explore more of the island, the beaches are served by a small bus service that regularly circles around. Or walk along the coastal road to find a selection of tavernas and restaurants all serving fresh fish, plus cafes and beach bars.

Agistri’s allure is the wonderful natural surroundings of pine forests and views of the Peloponnese. For a quiet trip and a chance to spend time on the beach during a day away from the city, you can’t go wrong with this tiny Saronic island.

Pro Tip: There are regular connections from the Port of Piraeus in Athens with journey times of 1 to 2 hours depending on which ferry service you take.

Known as the Jewel of the Saronics, Hydra is possibly one of the most popular islands to visit on a day trip from Athens. It’s famous for not allowing any motorized vehicles on the island — except the fire and refuse trucks.

It’s not so popular for its beaches, but there are plenty of good swimming platforms and rocks to swim from.

Its main pull is the upmarket harbor with several boutique shops and small hotels, plus a good selection of places to eat and drink. The harbor’s been rebuilt to resemble the architecture of its heyday in the 1800s when it was ruled by the Venetians, and you don’t need to have a vast knowledge of architecture to appreciate the uniqueness of the houses and mansions here.

Due to its relaxed vibe and the fact it’s so aesthetically pleasing, Hydra has attracted many artists, both Greek and international — the most famous being the late Leonard Cohen who bought a home there and penned “Bird on a Wire.”

For a sophisticated Greek island day trip, Hydra is definitely the one you should choose.

Pro Tip: High-speed services to Hydra operate from the Port of Piraeus, and there are about five a day with journey times of just under 2 hours.

With its elegant restored mansions dating to the Venetian era, Spetses has a distinctly vintage feel to it.

The main port of Dapia has several upmarket cafes and bars to relax in, or if it’s swimming you’re after, a visit to the secluded sandy beaches of Agia Marina or Agia Paraskevi is a must. Reach these beaches either by car or by taking the inter-island bus service.

Walking and hiking along the old paths that cut across the island side to side past old chapels and small settlements is another popular activity, especially in the spring and fall when the weather’s cooler.

Spetses is a perfect place for downtime, to come and relax and just be.

Pro Tip: The high-speed ferry from Piraeus takes about 3 hours and about five ferries run each day.

Lastly, we look at the Greek island of Kea. Though not strictly in the Saronic chain of islands, it is still possible to spend a day here.

Also called Tzia, the island is a Cycladic one with houses and churches and traditional farmhouses in earthy tones, not the blue and white of the other Cycladic islands.

Nature lovers will love it here as there are several rare plant species as well as wild birds and reptiles.

The capital is Ioulida, a place that bans cars, and the Medieval castle standing guard over the quaint village makes for an interesting visit.

Most of Kea’s beaches are sandy, small, and secluded, so you won‘t have to worry about overcrowding. Fans of walking and hiking will enjoy the inland paths through archaeological ruins such as the Stone Lion, which, according to mythology, was sent down by the jealous gods to ravage the beauty of the island.

Pro Tip: To get to Kea/Tzia, you take a one-hour ferry from the Port of Lavrion, located just over an hour from the center of Athens. For this reason, an overnight stay is well worth it on this beautiful, verdant island.

If you’re short on time, there is a One Day Cruise that allows you to take in three Greek islands — Hydra, Poros, and Aegina — in one day, and the price includes lunch on board plus Greek music.

She writes for a variety of digital and print travel media including The Telegraph newspaper and various inflight airline magazines including features in European carriers such as Wizz Air and hotel and restaurant reviews for easyJet. Her debut novel, Girl Gone Greek — available from Amazon — has been made into a film script, winning Best Feature Fiction Script at the 2018 London Greek Film Festival and Best Feature Fiction Script at the 2020 Santorini Film Festival.

7 Most Exciting Day Trips From Athens in 2024

There are loads of amazing day trips you can take as part of your Athens itinerary , though the one that’s best for you will depend on your interests: are you looking for an island getaway and a day at sea, or are you interested in ancient history and world renowned archaeological sites? Or maybe both? I’ve collected the best day trips from Athens for any kind of traveler, and provided timely information if you’re planning this trip for 2024.

Any of these day tours can be done with a car or a guided tour. Given the current situation, what you’d probably want to do is to book a rental car and then take an onsite guided tour. Driving in Greece is much less intimidating than driving in Italy, and we think most drivers will have no issue with it.

Renting a car is also affordable in Greece , and I’ve explained everything you need to know about the car rental process in Athens below. By renting a car, you can get the benefit of learning from a tour guide but without the potential downside of being stuck in a bus with a bunch of people (we all know that’s not what anyone wants at the moment).

How to reach these locations on Athens day tours

Whenver you’re leaving the warm embrace of a city like Athens, with public transits and taxis at your fingertips, there’s always the question: How am I going to reach these locations outside of Athens?

Let’s look at the different options (car vs. tour vs. train) and compare the pros and cons of each of these in the context of Greece travel.

Option 1: Renting a car in Greece

For our trip to Athens, we decided to drive, for two reasons: we already know a lot about Greek history (two former Classics majors!), and we’ve driven in Greece before with no issues. However, if you don’t have a driver’s license from another EU country, you may be asked to produce an international drivers license! A lot of Greek car rental agencies will overlook it, but you could run into trouble if you are pulled over for one reason or another.

Besides that, driving in Greece is much less chaotic than driving in Italy , in case you’ve been there and would like a bit of a comparison. The road aren’t the best, but we’ve never had issues driving during our trip to Greece. Just make sure to get a small car , as you know Greek streets are much more narrow than their Northn American equivalents!

Where to book a car in Athens? We always book our rental cars on DiscoverCars and have never had any problems, neither with picking up the car nor bogus insurance claims. As always, do a very good check of the car and take photos, especially if you aren’t getting full insurance.

Click here to check rental car availability in Athens for the dates of your day trip! You can pick up cars both at the Athens airport or in downtown Athens.

Option 2: Join a guided tour (small group vs. large group)

Again, because of the current situation, I would avoid taking any tours that require you to get in a bus with other people. Instead, I would choose a small group tour that begins on-site wherever you decide to go.

Or, load up an audio guide before you head to the destination to prepare yourself.

I always find it’s 100x more interesting to visit an archaeological site when there is someone to explain the history to me. So a small group tour that starts on-site can be a great (and healthy) option given the current circumstances.

I know we’re all thinking, “These people are standing too close together!” There I am in the corner being distant, as though from a premonition 😂

Option 3: Traveling by train

In the current climate, you might want to avoid traveling by train. Most train operators have extended their refund and exchange policies, but it’s hard to find up-to-date information about train travel in Greece right now.

For that reason, I’d stick with renting a car (it might even be cheaper).

Best day trips from Athens, Greece

Here’s a short summary of the best day tours you can take from Athens:

Peloponnese Region (Mycenae and Epidaurus)
Saronic Islands
Cape Sounion
Cyclades Islands (Santorini, Mykonos)

One important note is that most people agree you should skip Corinth , because the state of the ruins are not really worth seeing (according to both locals and my archaeologically-inclined boyfriend). You might pass over the Corinth Canal while driving near Ithmia but there’s no need to make an extended trip of it.

Here are more details about each of the recommended day trips, how to reach them, and how to be prepared!

1. Peloponnese Region (Mycenae and Epidaurus)

This is the day trip we opted to go on while visiting Athens! This region is packed with history, you can visit Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Nafplio in a single day. Mycenae is exceptional because it dates back to the second millenium BC – very old! Epidaurus is also home to the world’s best-preserved ancient amphitheatre, which dwarfs the ones in Athens itself. Nafplio is a considered one of Greece’s most beautiful towns, and the first capital of Greece. Check prices and availability for tours that combine all these locations into a single trip.

Located about 75 miles (120 kilometers) from Athens, Mycenae had its peak in 1350 BC when the citadel and lower town had a population of about 30,000 people. The reason it was so easy for archaeologists to identify Mycenae is because of the Lion’s Gate (pictured below), which was described by Pausanias, a Greek geographer from the 2nd century AD.

The Lion’s Gate is the only surviving piece of Mycenaean sculpture . It’s also an example of Cyclopean architecture, meaning the rocks used to build the gate are so big, it was thought that a cyclops must’ve helped build it 😂

Mycenae is so cool for a number of reasons: first, you get to see the setup of towns similar to those described in Homer’s Iliad (which took place during the Mycenaean Period). If you haven’t read the Iliad at least during high school, it’s kind of like the movie Troy 😂

Speaking of Troy, you can also visit the Tomb of Agamemnon (called the Treasury of Atreus) while you’re in Mycenae.

The Mycenaeans are also awesome because they were among the first cultures to have a system of writing . They borrowed writing from the Minoan civilization (who developed Linear A), and created their own script called Linear B. In the museum at Mycenae, you can see some original tablets of Linear B writing – some of the oldest human writing in the entire world!

Our buddy Pausanias, whose work helped identify Mycenae, also wrote about Epidaurus , describing it as a theatre of symmetry and beauty. While it’s not as big as some of the other theatres we’ve seen in Athens, hosting a modest 13,000-14,000 spectators, it’s in fantastic shape for the fact that it was built in the 4th century BC. Its acoustics are world-famous , and is still used today to perform ancient drama plays.

In fact, it’s considered to be the “most perfect” ancient Greek theatre with regards to acoustics. There was literally a study done on it, including measurements and all kinds of science.

The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus is part of a larger sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine. People would come and sleep here, hoping to be healed by the gods as they rested. There were places to sleep, places to bathe, and obviously places to watch entertainment.

2. Nafplio (also called Nauplia)

This sleepy seaside town has an epic past, as the first capital of the First Hellenic Republic and of the Kingdom of Greece, back when the Greeks were fighting for independence from the Ottoman Empire.

There are two main structures that are interesting for visitors, though both are comparatively modern: the Castle of Palamidi and the Bourtzi .

The Castle was built as a fortress by the Venetians when they occupied the area in the late 1600s to early 1700s. The Turks eventually captured it, and it was later recaptured by the Greeks. Reaching the tops requires traversing over 1,000 stairs!

Bourtzi was also built by the Venetians, but got its current name from the Ottoman Turks. It’s possible to take a ferry and walk around.

Apart from these two main sights, Nafplio is just a lovely town with colorful buildings, lots of places to eat and enjoy a glass of wine, and the color of the water is superb (even though we were there on a cloudy day in February!). It’s an extremely popular day trip from Athens.

3. Saronic Islands

If you want to visit some Greek Islands but don’t have a ton of time, you can visit the nearby Saronic Islands as part of a day cruise. Especially with Summer around the corner, this is a really cost-effective way to enjoy the Summer sun without the prices of a full-blown Greek islands vacation.

Here are a few of the top-rated small-group tours that depart from Athens and visit the Saronic islands:

From Athens: Full-day tour and sailing to Agistri, Moni, & Aegina Full-day tour – Lalalala. Check prices and availability for the most enthusiastically reviewed Saronic Island cruise on GetYourGuide.
Catamaran sailing cruise with meal and drinks Half-day tour – Lalalala. Check prices and availability for the most enthusiastically reviewed Saronic Island cruise on GetYourGuide.
Guided day trip to Aegina and Agistri Islands Full-day tour – Lalalala. Check prices and availability for the most enthusiastically reviewed Saronic Island cruise on GetYourGuide.

4. Sounio (Also called “Cape Sounion”)

One of the most time-efficient day trips from Athens, Cape Sounio is the location of Poseidon’s Temple and supposedly where King Menelaus stopped on his return from Troy.

I haven’t personally been to Sounio, but it was one of the top places we considered going instead of the Peloponnese Region. If you are looking for a stunning sunset over the Mediterranean Sea, but has to be the best location to do it a short trip from Athens without a doubt.

Not only that, but reaching Sounio is a really short trip: It only takes about 50 minutes of driving along the coast to reach this temple.

Check prices and availability for a tour that visits Sounio for sunset on the Aegean Sea.

Another extremely popular day trip from Athens, Delphi is where the most famous oracle in Ancient Greece was located. Today you can see ruins of two sanctuaries, one to Athena and one to Apollo. Since it’s such a popular trip, you can choose if you want to save money with a larger group tour to Delphi or opt for a small group tour to Delphi . Both have strong reviews, but different durations.

Meteora is easily one of the most beautiful places in all of Greece. I highly recommend spending at least two days to visit Meteora, Greece , but if you won’t get any other chance, visiting Meteora is completely worth it.

Tours to Meteora are surprisingly affordable, and you can either go by train or luxury mini bus. Check availability and current prices for the top-reviewed Meteora tour from Athens.

7. Cyclades Islands (Santorini, Mykonos)

Probably the most famous group of Greek Islands, the Cyclades include Santorini and Mykonos. While those islands warrant a trip on their own, similarly to Meteora, if you won’t get another chance, you might want to consider fitting a tour in to your Athens itinerary.

If your heart is set on Mykonos, my tip would be to check prices and availability for a one-day ferry tour to Mykonos from Athens.

Alternatively, you can reach Santorini as well by a 45-minute flight from Athens. Despite the small size of the island, I would still recommend spending at least 3 days in Santorini to make the most out of your trip.

Above you’ll find guided tours for each of these options, but you can also rent a car in Athens. It really depends on whether you’re comfortable driving abroad, if you want a guide, and if you want to drive. Renting a car can be pretty cheap in Greece, just make sure you book in advance during the high season. Click here to check rental car availability for your dates in Greece on DiscoverCars (where we always book our cars).

Which day tour from Athens would you take?

I’m really glad we went to Mycenae as an archaeology nerd, but at the same time, I can’t wait to get to the Greek Islands on my next trip (though hopefully longer than just a day!).

If you’re planning a trip to Greece, don’t miss my other posts about this awesome country (all of which have been updated for 2024):

Athens itinerary
Visit Meteora, Greece
Northern Greece
Zagori Itinerary
Santorini Itinerary

About the author

Hi there! I'm Monica, an American expat living in Germany for over six years and using every opportunity to explore the world from my homebase in Berlin. My goal is to capture my memories in photos and posts that show how easy it is to start from scratch and travel the world by working abroad.

Follow along on Instagram , Twitter , Bloglovin , & Facebook .

5 easy must-do weekend trips from Athens

Why leave Athens at all? When you first arrive in the Greek capital, you might find yourself wondering exactly that. This beautiful city with its iconic archaeological sites from ancient Greece is also a very modern metropolis, full of great food, friendly people, and cultural activities. Plus, while prices for food, accommodation, and everything else you need on a vacation are higher in Athens than you'll find in other areas of Greece, it's still a remarkably affordable city by the standards of European capitals.

There are tons of good reasons to visit Athens, even if ancient ruins aren't your thing. But at the same time, there's much more to Greece than just its capital city. In fact, during the Golden Age of Athens, there was no such place as Greece, and instead, the country was divided into city-states that each have their own history and culture. You can still enjoy some of that cultural diversity now on the best weekend trips from the city.

The Greek islands make truly stunning destinations for weekend getaways, and you can reach many of them by boat from Athens and the rest from Athens Airport . There are also some wonderful places to explore on the Greek mainland that are easily accessible from Athens. So as great as the capital is, don't deny yourself the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful places in all of Europe at these weekend getaway destinations.

And before you go exploring the ancient world, don't forget to leave your bags behind at an Athens luggage storage . Bring only what you need, whether you're going on day trips or weekend getaways, and you'll have a much better time exploring all that Greece has to offer.

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Saronic Islands

One of the most popular day trips from Athens, the Saronic Islands will give you a taste of what the beautiful Greek islands are all about without heading too far from the city. It's easy to book a boat trip from the port of Piraeus to the islands of Aegina, Poros, and Hydra, and there are plenty of places to stay on these beautiful and atmospheric islands to turn your day trip into a longer adventure.

Distance from Athens:

Aegina, as well as being the biggest of the local islands, is also the closest to Athens. It takes just over an hour by ferry to reach the island from Piraeus and a little longer to reach the other islands. It's also possible to take a private tour that will take you to all three of the islands so you can sample the unique atmosphere of each one.

Our activity recommendations:

Island hopping: Each of these beautiful islands has its own vibe, and it's not hard to find tour companies that let you travel from one island to the other by boat. Hydra is a laid-back island where there are no cars and donkeys are the most popular mode of transport, while Aegina is more developed and offers more options for bars, hotels, and restaurants. Travel to each of the islands and pick one to stay overnight, and you'll get a much more relaxing experience of Greek life than you would in Athens itself.

Ancient Greek monuments: All of these islands are as rich in archaeological ruins as the rest of Greece. Aegina, in particular, has some great places to explore, and you can easily spend a day or more traveling from one archaeological site to another on the island. Climb to the island's highest point to see the Temple of Ellanios Zeus , which predates the Trojan War and may be the oldest temple in Europe.

Best season to visit:

Greece's weather is mild all year round, but if you want to spend time on the beaches of the Saronic Islands, you probably want to do it in summer. Then again, summer is also the time when the islands are at their busiest, so if you prefer a more relaxed and less crowded atmosphere, it might be better to visit in spring or fall. Traipsing around a treeless archaeological site in the middle of a hot Greek day is not much fun, so it's definitely worth considering visiting the Saronic Islands during the off-season to get the most out of your trip.

The cradle of the ancient Mycenaean civilization, this island getaway offers a trip back in time as well as a trip to a gorgeous part of Greece. If you want to see a truly impressive archaeological site on your weekend getaway from Athens, this is a weekend trip you can't afford to miss. Explore the ancient history and enjoy a modern town on the Greek mainland.

The modern town of Mykines is a little over 100 km from the Greek capital. That means you can reach it in around an hour and a half of driving. Public transportation is not great in this area, although Mycenae is popular enough that it's possible to take a private coach tour from Athens to see the archaeological site.

Archaeological site of Mycenae: The archaeological site of Mycenae is the major attraction in this part of Greece and one of the most important and most interesting archaeological sites in all of Greece - which is saying quite a lot. A popular destination for day trips from Athens, there's enough to explore here that you could easily make it a longer weekend trip. This ancient city dates back to the 12th century BC, and it provides a glimpse back into history and even Greek mythology that make it a must-visit for any fan of classical antiquity and one of the most striking archaeological sites in the entire world.

Larissa Castle Argos: Drive a little outside of Mykines to experience the more recent but still ancient history of this impressive medieval castle. The history in this area goes back at least 2000 years, but the current castle dates to about the 13th century. This part of central Greece has so many archaeological sites that this one flies under the radar, so don't expect a well-equipped museum or any guided tours here. But it is a great place to get away from the crowds, enjoy beautiful views, and explore a lesser-known side of Greek history.

As with most places in Greece, summers are hot and bring tourist crowds. The archaeological site is open all year round, so consider a visit during the shoulder season when you can still enjoy good weather but won't overheat and will have a more peaceful experience of this unique place.

The former home of the most famous oracle of the ancient world, Delphi is a fascinating place to visit and get to grips with the religious and spiritual side of ancient Greek life. Visited by famous conquerors and historians of the past, Delphi provides a glimpse into the occult beliefs and practices of the ancient world and is an incredible place to visit for history lovers.

Delphi is in central Greece, almost 200 km from Athens. That means you'll need to drive a little over two hours to get here. Because of Delphi's popularity with tourists, you can also take a bus, which will take around three hours.

Archaeological site: This sprawling ancient sanctuary was where people in ancient times came from across Greece and all over the Mediterranean to hear their future prophesied by the mysterious oracle. This was an important center of culture for hundreds of years, and you can see the cave where the oracle made her prophecies, along with an ancient theater and the stadium that hosted the Pythian Games. There is almost too much to see here, so it's well worth considering hiring a guide to explain the complex history of the many buildings.

Archaeological Museum: The perfect accompaniment to a visit to the archaeological site, the Delphi Archaeological Museum displays important finds from the region and tells the story of the oracle and the temples here from the earliest beginnings up to their decline and fall. Visiting the archaeological museum will give you a much clearer picture of what this famous location was all about and its importance in the ancient world.

You can visit Delphi at any time of the year. However, like many places in Greece, hot weather and tourist crowds make summer less pleasant than spring and fall.

Greece's second largest island lies just off the coast of Athens, making it easy to reach from the Greek capital. Evia, also known as Euboea, provides a glimpse of Greek island life but is close enough to be accessible for day trips and weekend trips from Athens itself.

It only takes around an hour to drive north of Athens and take a ferry over the Euboean Gulf to reach this large island. It's also accessible by public transit, but you'll get the most out of this island if you have your own vehicle to explore. There's also a bridge to the island which allows you to reach it from Athens in two hours.

Chalkida: The capital city of the island is where you'll find many of the top attractions of Evia, including, of course, a spectacular archaeological museum. You'll also find incredible restaurants, picturesque streets, quaint shops, and a seventeenth-century castle to explore.

Thermal Springs Of Edipsos: Mentioned in writing by Aristotle, these thermal springs have been a big attraction on the island for thousands of years. Nowadays, you can enjoy the springs and a natural pool close to a small beach like the ancient Greeks did. Alternatively, you can enjoy a historic spa that was built on this site in 1897 and provides a range of luxurious spa treatments to rejuvenate you on your vacation.

Despite how close it is to Athens, Evia is surprisingly uncrowded. That means this can be a great place to visit even in the summer, to give you a break from the tourists of Athens and to allow you to explore beautiful beaches and charming towns in the height of summer.

This legendary destination has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical importance. One of the most unique places to explore in Greece, Meteora is too far from Athens for day trips, but if you're looking for a longer weekend trip, it's well worth considering this incredible place.

Meteora lies 350 km north of Athens, so it takes about four hours to reach by car.

Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron: Undoubtedly the top attraction in the area, this beautiful monastery dates back to the 14th century. Built on precipitous cliffs formed by the local rock formations, this is a truly unique place to visit and a sight you will never forget.

Wine tour: Wine has been made in this region for centuries, and there is still a working vineyard that you can visit to learn more about wine production and sample some of the best local vintages.

There's no bad time to visit this iconic site. Although summer can be crowded, there's enough countryside to explore here that you can easily get away from the tourist crowds.

Athens is surrounded by beautiful locations, and the best day trips from Athens as well as the best weekend trips, can show you some of the best of what Greece has to offer.

Athens itself has plenty to keep you busy, and if you only have three days in the city or so, you should focus on enjoying the capital. But if you have a little more time to spend, consider taking one of these fantastic trips to enjoy more of what Greece is all about.

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I spent 4 days in Athens, Greece. Here are 10 things that were worth it and 5 I'd skip next time.

I recently spent four days in Athens, Greece, while traveling around Europe .
Stumbling upon the National Garden was a great treat, and I loved learning about the Acropolis.
On the other hand, I'm not sure the Roman Agora or Hadrian's Library are worth a visit .

In October, I traveled to Athens, Greece , for the first time since I was 18 months old.

I spent four days exploring some of the city's amazing landmarks and sites. But even though I didn't pay for all of the attractions — because some are free for EU citizens 25 and under — there are a few I wouldn't spend time on again.

The Greek city just made Delta Air Line's list of most-searched summer destinations for 2024, so if you're currently planning a trip, here's everything that was worth the time and money and the few things I'd skip on my next trip.

I was glad I happened upon Athens National Garden.

I happened upon the National Garden kind of by accident when I was looking for some green space to run in. It's completely free and perfect for a walk, jog, or run.

The space is very peaceful and also has ponds with lots of turtles. I ended up going back a few days later to sit and read in the shade.

The Acropolis is definitely worth it, especially in the morning.

The Acropolis, which I'd consider the main tourist attraction in Athens, is a must-visit.

The citadel contains several ancient buildings, most notably the Parthenon. I was told to start waiting in line around 7:30 a.m. (it opens at 8), and it was well worth the time and effort.

It got busy — and hot — really quickly. I couldn't imagine going any later, and I ended up being able to take a nap afterward anyway.

I wasn't too sure about Mount Lycabettus, but the views won me over.

I planned to go to Mount Lycabettus (the highest point in Athens) for sunset one night. I thought I'd allotted enough time, but everyone seemed to have the same idea since there was a huge line when I arrived.

Truthfully, I was a bit disappointed by the tram ride, and when I got to the top, I was overwhelmed by how many people there were. But the view made it worth it.

I ended up staying for dinner and had a delicious meal of Greek salad , moussaka, and white wine for about $16.

I'm so glad I paid to run along the track at Panathenaic Stadium.

The stadium is cool on its own — it dates back to 600 BC and is the only marble stadium in the world. But I went early in the morning, during the designated running hours of 7:30 to 9 a.m., and got to run around the track.

It's only about $10 to enter (I paid the student price of $5), and it was one of my favorite things I did on the trip.

Kerameikos Archaeological Site is one of the coolest cemeteries I've ever seen.

I had pretty low expectations going in having seen my fair share of cemeteries , but I was pleasantly surprised by this one.

The tombstones were pillar-shaped, and there were great views of the Parthenon.

If you're doing the Acropolis, make sure to swing through Plaka afterward.

It's worth walking around the neighborhood surrounding the Acropolis.

There are great taverns with traditional Greek food and places to buy all the souvenirs your heart desires. I really enjoyed wandering around and exploring some of the picturesque side streets.

Even after seeing the real deal, I got a lot out of the Acropolis Museum.

I'm not usually a big museum person, but the Acropolis Museum is definitely worth a visit.

I went after I'd already seen the landmark, and it gave me good context. It houses many artifacts that were excavated from the site, and beneath the museum is an in-progress excavation of ancient Athens.

Areopagus Hill provided stunning views for free.

Behind the Acropolis is a prominent rock outcropping. It can be a slippery and steep walk up, but the views of the Acropolis and the surrounding area are breathtaking.

Entrance to the hill and its surrounding park is also completely free.

I could feel the history at the Ancient Agora of Athens.

The Athenian Agora is one of the best-known examples of a traditional Greek meeting place. It had great views of the Acropolis and was beautifully adorned with trees and other ruins.

I was especially impressed by how well the Temple of Hephaestus was preserved. There's also a museum, and the second floor has a nice balcony where you can look out over the agora

I'm glad I swung by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Many of the attractions in Athens date back centuries, but the tomb is much more contemporary.

Dedicated to Greek soldiers killed in war, the tomb itself is visually quite simple. But there are guards that stand in traditional garb, which reminded me of Buckingham Palace .

It's also pretty central — right next to the National Garden — so I didn't have to go out of the way to see it.

Next time, I'd skip Monastiraki Flea Market and shop in Plaka instead.

I was excited to go to a flea market but was quite disappointed to find that this one didn't sell anything much different than the rows of stores in Plaka.

I will say that the square near the market had good views of the Parthenon, but I was able to see similar angles from other places in the city.

After seeing the Athenian Agora, I'd skip the Roman Agora on future trips.

In contrast to the Athenian Agora, the Roman version wasn't much to write home about.

The gate at the front is kind of cool, but I think could just look from the outside instead of wasting time going in.

Hadrian's Library didn't wow me.

I didn't find the "library" all that special.

The ruin isn't really a building, just pillars. And like the Roman Agora, you could easily just peek through the gates to get a good sense of the place.

I wanted to love the Temple of Zeus, but I was a little underwhelmed.

I was excited to see a temple devoted to the King of the Gods, but it was kind of disappointing.

To be fair, the temple was under construction when I went. But I felt that there wasn't a ton to look at regardless.

The Lyceum of Aristotle isn't all that exciting and it's far from everything else.

The original lyceum was destroyed. All that's left of it is a few ruins that were discovered about 30 years ago.

It's relatively new since it wasn't opened to the public until 2009, but I felt like it wasn't worth the walk since it was far from most of the other landmarks .

This story was originally published on November 12, 2023, and most recently updated on May 1, 2024.

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1. Nafplio and the Fortress of Palamidi. Visiting Nafplio would have to be one of the best day trips from Athens, if not the best. From Greek mythology, Nauplius and Amymone, are said to have founded Nafplio. Amymone was one of the Danaides, and one of the fifty daughters of King Danaus, whereas Nauplius (The Navigator) was the son of the sea ...
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For those looking for a more active day trip from Athens, the Parnassos Ski Centre is around 30mins further up the mountain and is the perfect setting for winter sports fun. The resort offers a variety of slopes for all levels of skiers and snowboarders (ranging from 1,640m to 2,260m altitude) and is also a beautiful place for hiking at other ...
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Parnitha, Acharnes 136 72, Greece. Go for a hike on Mount Parnitha, a fir- and pine-covered national park spread across 25,000 hectares (61,776 acres) north of Athens. In spring, the slopes explode in a riot of color as 1,100 floral species and subspecies, 92 of which are endemic, unfurl their beauty.
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The distance from Athens to Epidaurus is approximately 125 kilometers (or about 77 miles) and then you'll need around 35 kilometers (or 21 miles) to reach Nafplio and a final 23 kilometers ( or 14 miles) to reach Mycenae. A one-way trip to all of these destinations by car would last about 3,5 hours.
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Book sailing trip to 3 islands here or check out the additional options below: 3. Nafplio, Mycenae, + Epidaurus. Distance from Athens: 83 miles/138 km. Activities You Can't Miss: Exploring the ruins at Mycenae, historic castles in Nafplio, and the theater at Epidaurus. As one of the popular Athens day trips, a visit to Nafplio, Mycenae, and ...
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2. The temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion. The iconic temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion is a popular half day tour from Athens. It was built in 444-440 BC to honor Poseidon, the God of the Sea in Greek mythology, and it's been very well preserved. Cape Sounio is located about 70 kms (43.5 miles) south of the Athens city center.
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Poros. Poros is arguably one of Greece's best-kept secrets and offers a perfect choice for day trips from Athens away from the tourist hordes. I t is actually made up of two islands: Kalavria and Sphairia. Kalavria island is an area of greenery sprinkled with pine trees. Meanwhile, Sphairia is made up of volcanic rock.
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7. Go scuba diving in the Blue Hole. Located south of Athens, the Blue Hole is a sea cave that burrows vertically down 30m (98ft) into the ocean floor. Resembling a man-made well, diving into this geological anomaly is an adventurous day trip that makes for a change from the historic attractions of Athens.
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3. Saronic Islands. Some of the best day tours from Athens involve hopping aboard a sailboat and cruising to nearby islands. The closest option from Athens are islands in the Saronic Gulf like Agistri, Moni, and Aegina. Not only do you get to visit each of the islands but you get to unwind on deck with music and drinks.
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In a Nutshell. Rent a car. The best guided tours for a day trip from Athens. Cape Sounion sunset tour with a guide (best and closest to Athens) Delphi guided tour (great for history lovers) Nafplio, Epidaurus and Mycenae (enjoy history and a picturesque town) Hydra, Poros, Aigina (3 islands in a day)
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One of the best things about Athens day trips to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon is the affordable ticket. There is great value for your money on this private tour! See full details of this easy tour of Cape Sounion and the ancient Temple of Poseidon below. Duration: 4-5 hours. Cost: €56.
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5. Delphi. Another extremely popular day trip from Athens, Delphi is where the most famous oracle in Ancient Greece was located. Today you can see ruins of two sanctuaries, one to Athena and one to Apollo. Since it's such a popular trip, you can choose if you want to save money with a larger group tour to Delphi or opt for a small group tour ...
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Saronic Islands. One of the most popular day trips from Athens, the Saronic Islands will give you a taste of what the beautiful Greek islands are all about without heading too far from the city. It's easy to book a boat trip from the port of Piraeus to the islands of Aegina, Poros, and Hydra, and there are plenty of places to stay on these ...
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9 of the best day trips from Athens

1. Visit the picturesque former capital, Nafplio

2. Aegina is the perfect Greek island getaway

3. Soak up the mythology at Delphi

4. Walk in the footsteps of ancients in Corinthia

5. Hit the hiking trails of Mt Parnitha National Park

6. Imagine the sound of Homer at the World Heritage-listed Mycenae

7. Wander the car-free island of Hydra

8. Escape to the seaside restaurants of Halkida

9. Watch the sunset at Cape Sounion

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17 Spectacular Day Trips from Athens, Greece

Where to Stay in Athens

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Day Trips from Athens: The Complete List

Cape Sounion

Mycenae

Aigialeia Wine Tour

Mount Olympus

Athenian Riviera

Nemea Winery

Blue Hole Dive

Should You DIY Your Athens Day Trip or Go on a Guided Tour?

Athens Day Tour Recommendations

Greece Travel Resources

Key Things to Pack on Your Trip to Greece

Finally, Make Sure You Come to Greece with Travel Insurance

Pin This Athens Day Trip Guide for Your Trip to Greece

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17 Unmissable Day Trips From Athens: Take A Tour From Athens

Historical And Archaeological Tours

What To See:

How To Get There:

2. Day Trip To Delphi From Athens

3. Athens To Corinthia Guided Tour

4. Athens Day Trip To Mycenae And Epidaurus

5. Athens To Sparta Day Trip

Brands We Use And Trust

Book your day trips here.

8. Lake Marathon From Athens

9. Explore The Athenian Riviera

10. Mount Olympus From Athens

Cultural And Religious Tours

12. Tour From Athens To Moni

Island Hopping And Beach Tours

Book your ferries in Greece here.

15. Choose One Of Three Islands Near Athens – Aegina, Hydra, Or Paros

16. Sail To The Greek Island Of Agistri From Athens

17. One-Day Tour To Mykonos From Athens

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Renting A Car In Greece

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14 Delightful Day Trips from Athens, Greece

My favourite Travel resources for Athens

What are the best day trips from Athens?

3. Corinth Canal

4. Historical Sites of Corinth

5. Arachova

6. Cape Sounion

9. Lake Marathon

10. Eleusis

11. Hydra, Poros and Aegina Islands

13. Epidaurus

14. Parnitha National Park

How do you get from Athens to Delphi?

Can you do day trips to the islands from Athens?

How do you get from Athens to Santorini?

What are the best day trips from Athens for couples?

Final Thoughts on the Best Day Trips from Athens

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

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