Athens is an incredible city on its own—full of history, culture, and energy. But sometimes, a day away from the hustle and bustle is exactly what you need.
That’s where day trips come in. Just a few hours of travel can allow you to explore ancient ruins, sun-kissed beaches, and picturesque villages that are reminiscent of a postcard.
Whether you’re in Athens for a quick stop or a two-week vacation, we’ve rounded up the best day trips that give you a deeper taste of what Greece has to offer.
Why Take a Day Trip from Athens?
Let’s be real—Athens is amazing. But even the best cities can feel overwhelming after a few days. Taking a day trip lets you recharge, see new sides of Greece, and avoid that dreaded travel FOMO.
Plus, Greece’s public transportation and guided tours make it super easy to explore without the stress of planning everything yourself. Whether you’re into history, beaches, or cute little towns—there’s something for everyone just a short ride away.
Delphi: A Journey to the Oracle
The Ancient Center of the World
Ever heard of the phrase “know thyself”? It comes from Delphi, once considered the center of the world by ancient Greeks. Just 2.5 hours from Athens, it’s home to the famous Oracle, where people came for divine advice.
Highlights:
-
Temple of Apollo
-
Ancient Theater
-
Delphi Museum
Imagine walking among ruins where kings and warriors once stood, looking for guidance from the gods. It’s spine-tingling stuff.
Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon
Sunsets You’ll Never Forget
This one’s for the romantics. Just a 90-minute drive from Athens, Cape Sounion sits dramatically above the sea. The real star? The Temple of Poseidon. Come here at sunset and thank us later.
Pro Tip: Pack a picnic and sit on the cliffs for an unforgettable golden hour.
Hydra Island: A Car-Free Paradise
Hydra is a whole vibe. No cars, just donkeys, boats, and cobblestone paths. The island is about 2 hours from Athens by ferry and feels like you’ve stepped back in time—but with Insta-worthy views at every turn.
Don’t Miss:
-
Local seafood tavernas
-
Boutique shops
-
Cliff diving (if you’re feeling bold)
Aegina Island: Pistachios and Temples
Closer Than You Think
Aegina is just a 40-minute ferry ride from Athens and it’s packed with charm. Famous for its pistachios (yes, the world’s best), the island also has ancient ruins and beach spots.
Must-See:
-
Temple of Aphaia
-
Agios Nektarios Monastery
-
Aegina Town waterfront
Perfect for a chill day of wandering, snacking, and sightseeing.
Corinth: Where Ancient Meets Modern
A History Buff’s Dream
Less than 90 minutes away, ancient Corinth is an archaeological jackpot. Walk through ruins that date back thousands of years, including the Temple of Apollo and the ancient marketplace.
While You’re There:
-
Check out the Corinth Canal
-
Visit the Acrocorinth fortress
-
Sip some local wine
Nafplio: Romance by the Sea
This seaside town looks like it belongs in a romantic movie. Think pastel buildings, flower-covered balconies, and cozy cafés. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Athens and totally worth the trip.
Top Spots:
-
Palamidi Fortress
-
Old Town walking tour
-
Bourtzi Castle on the water
Mycenae and Epidaurus: History Overload
If you’re into Greek mythology, you’ll love this combo. Mycenae is home to King Agamemnon’s ancient palace, and Epidaurus has a theater so well-preserved, it still hosts performances today.
Ideal for: Ancient history lovers with big imaginations.
Meteora: Monasteries in the Sky
Worth the Longer Journey
Okay, this one’s a bit far (around 4-5 hours), but it’s one of Greece’s most jaw-dropping sights. The sight of giant rock pillars with monasteries perched on top is reminiscent of a scene from a fantasy movie.
Best Done As: A guided day tour or overnight trip if you have time.
Marathon: Run Through Ancient Glory
Ever wondered where the marathon race comes from? It’s this place. Marathon is just 40 km from Athens and loaded with ancient history, including the famous battlefield and a great museum.
Lavrio: For the Curious Explorer
Not a mainstream tourist spot, but Lavrio is a hidden gem for archaeology nerds and seafood lovers. It’s close to Athens and ideal for off-the-beaten-path travelers.
Wine Tours in Attica Region
You don’t have to go far for great wine. The Attica region around Athens has vineyards producing some of Greece’s best bottles. Book a wine tour, sip, and enjoy the countryside.
Beaches Near Athens
Just want to chill? No problem. Head to beaches like:
-
Vouliagmeni
-
Varkiza
-
Lagonisi
You can be on the sand within 30 minutes from the city. Yes, seriously.
Planning the Perfect Day Trip
Here’s what to consider:
-
Time: Start early!
-
Transport: Rent a car or take a guided tour
-
Essentials: Sunscreen, comfy shoes, water, snacks
-
Camera: You’ll regret not having one
Tips for a Smooth Day Trip Experience
-
Book in advance for ferries and tours
-
Travel light—just a backpack
-
Check weather before you go
-
Bring cash for small villages or local markets
Conclusion: Don’t Just Stay in Athens
Athens is amazing—but Greece is more than just one city. Day trips offer the best of both worlds: city life and countryside charm, ancient ruins and coastal vibes. So get out there, explore, and let your Greek adventure truly begin.
FAQs
1. Can I visit these places without a tour guide?
Yes! Many spots are accessible via public transport or car. Though, guided tours can enrich the experience with local stories and insights.
2. What’s the best island for a day trip from Athens?
Hydra and Aegina are top picks—Hydra for charm and Aegina for history and pistachios.
3. How much does a typical day trip cost?
Expect to spend around €30-€100 depending on the destination and if you’re taking a guided tour.
4. Is it safe to travel solo for these trips?
Absolutely. Greece is generally safe for solo travelers, especially for day trips from Athens.
5. Do I need to book everything in advance?
For ferries and guided tours—yes. For road trips, you have more flexibility but booking early never hurts.
