If you’ve experienced all the things to do in Athens, day trips from Athens are your gateway to more adventures. These journeys offer a unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, extending your exploration to the rich surroundings of the Greek capital.
Venturing out from Athens, the diverse array of things to do in Greece comes to life, from visiting ancient archaeological sites to tasting local delicacies in picturesque villages. Each trip enriches your travel experience, offering new insights into the heritage and natural beauty of Greece.
Choosing where to stay in Athens is key to enjoying both the city’s ancient marvels and the ease of embarking on these exciting day trips. A well-chosen base in Athens provides not only comfort but also convenient access to various transportation options, ensuring a seamless transition from cityscape to countryside or coast.
Discover Best Day Trips from Athens, Greece
1. Delphi, Greece
Delphi, the site of the famous ancient oracle, is nestled in the mountains and offers a blend of stunning scenery and historical significance. Explore the Temple of Apollo and the Delphi Archaeological Museum.
Distance: Approximately 180 km
Travel Time: About 2.5 hours by car or bus from Athens
Transportation: Bus (Busbud), Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Temple of Apollo, Delphi Archaeological Museum
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Temple and Museum Combined Ticket: €12
Budget: Approximately €40-€70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: The Tholos of Athena Pronaia, Mount Parnassus
Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning to enjoy the site in a more serene setting and to avoid the midday crowds.
2. Hydra, Greece
Hydra is a charming, car-free island known for its preserved 18th-century architecture, stunning harbors, and artistic heritage. It’s a great spot for leisurely walks and relaxation by the sea.
Distance: Approximately 70 km (from Piraeus port)
Travel Time: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by ferry from Piraeus, Athens’ main port
Transportation: Ferry (book via local operators)
Main Attractions: Preserved 18th-century architecture, stunning harbors, artistic heritage
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Ferry Ticket: €28-€40 (round trip)
Budget: Approximately €50-€80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Hydra’s harbor, Spilia Beach
Travel Tip: Pack comfortable walking shoes as transportation on the island is primarily by foot or by donkey.
3. Nafplio, Greece
Nafplio, a picturesque seaside town, is steeped in history with its Venetian fortresses and neoclassical architecture. Explore Palamidi Fortress, Bourtzi Castle, and the charming old town.
Distance: Approximately 140 km
Travel Time: Around 2 hours by car or bus
Transportation: Bus (Busbud), Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Palamidi Fortress, Bourtzi Castle, old town
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Palamidi Fortress: €8
- Bourtzi Castle: Free
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Nafplio waterfront, Arvanitia Beach
Travel Tip: Try the famous Nafplio ice cream and stroll along the waterfront promenade in the evening.
4. Cape Sounion, Greece
Cape Sounion is famous for the Temple of Poseidon, set dramatically on the cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea. It’s a perfect spot for breathtaking sunsets.
Distance: Approximately 70 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car from Athens
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Temple of Poseidon, Aegean Sea views
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Temple of Poseidon: €10
Budget: Approximately €25-€50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Temple of Poseidon, Cape Sounion beach
Travel Tip: Plan to arrive in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset; the view of the temple against the setting sun is spectacular.
5. Epidaurus, Greece
Epidaurus is renowned for its ancient theatre with outstanding acoustics and the Sanctuary of Asklepios, an important healing center in the ancient Greek world.
Distance: Approximately 130 km
Travel Time: Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, Sanctuary of Asklepios
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Theatre and Sanctuary: €12
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Theatre of Epidaurus, Lygourio village
Travel Tip: If you’re visiting in the summer, check the schedule for live performances at the theatre for a truly unique experience.
6. Corinth, Greece
Ancient Corinth, known for its significant role in Greek and biblical history, features ruins like the Temple of Apollo and a well-preserved ancient agora.
Distance: Approximately 80 km
Travel Time: About 1 to 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Temple of Apollo, ancient agora, Corinth Canal
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Ancient Corinth Site: €8
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Corinth Canal, Temple of Apollo
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the Corinth Canal, a remarkable engineering feat, which is just a short drive from the ancient site.
7. Mycenae, Greece
Mycenae, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an ancient city that played a central role in Greek mythology and history. Visit the Lion’s Gate, the Royal Tombs, and the onsite museum.
Distance: Approximately 120 km
Travel Time: Roughly 1.5 to 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Lion’s Gate, Royal Tombs, onsite museum
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Archaeological Site and Museum: €12
Budget: Approximately €25-€50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Lion’s Gate, Treasury of Atreus
Travel Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for some uphill walking to fully explore the archaeological site.
8. Aegina, Greece
Aegina, an island known for its pistachio orchards, offers a pleasant blend of ancient sites, such as the Temple of Aphaia, and relaxing beaches.
Distance: Approximately 27 km (from Piraeus port)
Travel Time: The ferry from Piraeus takes about 40 minutes to 1 hour
Transportation: Ferry (book via local operators)
Main Attractions: Temple of Aphaia, pistachio orchards, beaches
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Temple of Aphaia: €6
- Ferry Ticket: €10-€20 (round trip)
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Temple of Aphaia, Aegina’s beaches
Travel Tip: Try the locally produced pistachios, considered some of the best in the world.
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Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/athens-l91?activity_type=dayTrip
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