Oh Athens, how we love you. We have now visited the town 3 times, however it wasn’t till our most up-to-date journey that we truly frolicked actually immersing within the power of this vibrant capital of Greece. Whereas many individuals instantly jet off to the Greek Islands there are many thrilling adventures that may be finished on a day journey. From unbelievable archaeological websites to beautiful seashores, Athens is just not solely a vacation spot in itself but additionally a launchpad for quite a few thrilling day journeys. From the islands off the Athenian Riviera to historic websites steeped in fable and historical past, let’s embark on a journey to discover the perfect day journeys you can also make from Athens.
Prime Day Journeys from Athens
We have now pushed in Greece many instances and it is rather straightforward to navigate. We propose getting a rental automotive in your keep in Athens as they’re extra inexpensive than different European locations. You may examine automotive rental costs right here.
When you aren’t snug driving, we’ve got urged the most well-liked day journeys from Athens with hyperlinks that can assist you plan your journey.
Planning Your Journey To Athens Proper Now?
Under are a number of the prime day journey excursions from Athens. Don’t overlook to plan forward when visiting Greece!
Prime Day Journey Actions and Excursions from Athens:
1. Delphi
Delphi is only a two-hour drive from Athens and is a necessary vacation spot for historical past and archaeology lovers. This unbelievable archaeological website is a UNESCO World Heritage housing the Sanctuary of Apollo. Take a guided tour to see the stays of the Temple of Apollo, the traditional theater, and the stadium. You’ll want to take a look at the Athenian Treasury and the Polygonal Wall with its inscriptions.
Additionally, you will wish to cease by the Delphi Archaeological Museum to study extra about Greek historical past. Right here, you may view its assortment of artifacts discovered within the historic ruins. One of the crucial iconic items is the bronze Charioteer of Delphi, one of many best-known sculptures surviving from Historic Greece and take a stroll alongside the Sacred Approach which was the principle route by way of the Sanctuary of Apollo, utilized in processions to the temple. If you find yourself completed at these fascinating ruins, make your solution to the trendy city of Delphi for lunch at considered one of its many eating places, retailers, and cafes.
2. Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon
Cape Sounion is a favourite getaway for each locals and vacationers. Together with us! Simply 60 minutes from downtown Athens, Cape Sounion is also referred to as the Athens Riviera. There are seashores and resorts making for a unbelievable day journey from Athens, or you may e-book a weekend getaway.
The primary attraction right here is essentially the most stunning setting for archaeological ruins which you could get. The Iconic Temple of Poseidon sits excessive on a seacliff providing unbelievable vistas of Cape Sounion. Start your go to by exploring the Doric columns of this Fifth-century BC edifice, and don’t overlook to hunt out Lord Byron’s well-known graffiti etched into one of many temple’s remaining pillars.
The Athens Riviera offers a style of Greek Island Life with out having to go away the mainland. Seashores like Sounio Seashore and Legrena Seashore are only a quick drive from the temple. Earlier than leaving, be sure to witness some of the celebrated sunsets in Greece from the point of view close to the temple of Poseidon. For meals lovers, there are seaside tavernas shut by, providing scrumptious Greek delicacies with a unbelievable sea view.
3. Hydra Island
Solely a two-hour ferry journey from Athens, Hydra Island is the proper day journey from Athens for these looking for a style of the Greek Islands. No motorized automobiles are allowed on Hydra making for a quiet retreat from the town. It’s recognized for its picturesque harbor and slender, cobbled streets lined with boutiques, artwork galleries, and native eateries.
Don’t miss the possibility to go to the Historic Archives Museum and the Ecclesiastical and Byzantine Museum to study extra about Hydra’s wealthy previous.
For outside lovers, there are mountaineering trails that provide stunning views of the ocean. The path from Hydra city to the Monastery of Prophet Elias is a specific favourite. Seashore lovers can take pleasure in island life by heading to both Vlychos or Kaminia.
On the finish of the day, loosen up at a waterfront cafe, having fun with native delicacies as boats bob within the harbor. You don’t have to move again to the Greek capital you may e-book an evening on the island to increase your keep. Guide an evening on the 4 Seasons Hydra for an opulent keep. Examine critiques on TripAdvisor
4. Poros Island
Poros is a part of the Saronic islands that are simply accessible by a fast ferry journey from Athens. It gives a style of island life with a extra native really feel than the favored vacationer locations of Greece.
A go to to the Archaeological Museum of Poros is a should. It homes finds from the sanctuary of Poseidon at Kalavria. Discover the Lemon Forest, a aromatic grove with greater than 30,000 lemon and orange bushes. You’ll want to go to the Clock Tower, the island’s most well-known landmark, for panoramic views of Poros and the encircling sea.
When you’re a seaside lover, spend a while at Love Bay or Askeli Seashore, each recognized for his or her clear waters. Wrap up your day by having fun with a meal at one of many many seaside taverns.
5. Corinth Canal
The Corinth Canal is an engineering marvel linking the Aegean and Ionian seas. This synthetic canal is a powerful website slicing by way of the slender isthmus that connects the Gulf of Corinth within the Ionian Sea with the Saronic Gulf within the Aegean Sea. This 4-mile-long canal was constructed between 1882 and 1893 and separates the Peloponnese Peninsula from the mainland.
You may e-book a day journey from Athens to see views of the Corinth Canal and go to Historic Corinth to see the place St. Paul lived and its historic Agora, and Apollo’s Temple. Additionally, you will go to the traditional port of Kechreai.
Go to the submersible bridge at Isthmia, considered one of solely two in Europe. For adrenaline junkies, bungee leaping from the canal’s bridge is an possibility.
Historic Corinth is a captivating archaeological website, the place you’ll discover the Temple of Apollo and the Bema, the place St. Paul spoke to the Corinthians. You too can go to the Archaeological Museum of Corinth to get your fill of historic Greek historical past.
In your method again to Athens, make a cease on the Acrocorinth, the acropolis of historic Corinth, a monolithic rock overseeing the traditional metropolis.
6. Meteora
Visiting Meteora must be on the prime of everybody’s Greek bucket listing. Meteora is a UNESCO World Heritage website positioned 4 hours from Athens. The world is famed for its towering rock formations and the centuries-old monasteries perched precariously upon the excessive monoliths.
When you have a automotive, arrive early within the morning to view the monasteries by yourself time forward of the crowds. You want not less than one full day right here to see the spectacular monasteries such because the Nice Meteoron Monastery, Varlaam Monastery, and Rousanou Monastery. Learn extra: Monasteries of Meteora, Greece – Magic Monoliths in Pictures
We extremely suggest taking a stroll by way of the quite a few mountaineering trails snaking across the rock formations, providing panoramic views of the panorama away from the crowds. Higher but, e-book one of many guided excursions supplied to study extra concerning the ruins. We took this mountaineering tour from Kalabaka that follows the historic paths of the monks.
Chances are you’ll wish to think about taking a guided tour to get insights into the historical past and significance of the realm. Earlier than leaving, go to the native city of Kalabaka to strive native cuisines. We suggest spending a few nights in Meteora and we stayed at The Divani Meteora Lodge which was positioned proper within the coronary heart of the traditional website.
This 4-day Basic Tour enables you to see lots of the greatest day journeys from Athens in a single handy tour. You’ll discover the perfect of Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi & Meteora.
7. Mycenae and Epidaurus
Mycenae and Epidaurus supply a deep dive into Greek historical past to the time of King Agamemnon and the Trojan Battle. Go to Mycenae, a UNESCO World Heritage that was the middle of the Mycenaean civilization which dates again to 2 hundred BC.
Right here you’ll discover the traditional temples together with the well-known Lion’s Gate, Royal Tombs, The Tomb of Agamemnon, and the Archaeological Museum. The Cyclopean Partitions which have been named for his or her huge measurement, are a must-see.
Subsequent, head to Epidaurus to go to the traditional theatre, devoted to the Greek God of Drugs Asclepius, well-known for its distinctive acoustics and symmetrical development. Don’t miss the Sanctuary of Asklepios, an essential therapeutic heart within the historic world, and its historic theatre.
The theater at Epidaurus is without doubt one of the best-preserved theaters of historic Greece and its performances nonetheless happen immediately. Think about your self residing in historic instances watching the likes of Homer or Greek Mythology carried out on this spectacular archeological website.
From Might to October some of the well-known cultural occasions takes place right here and on the Acropolis in Athens. This competition showcases music and artists and has attracted the likes of Luciano Pavarotti and Frank Sinatra. The 2023 lineup will see eclectic artists corresponding to Herbie Hancock, Invoice Burr, and the Opera de Paris.
This extremely rated tour is a full-day guided day journey from Athens that touts itself as carbon impartial. Over the following 10 hours, you’ll go to the Corinth Canal, Mycenae, and Epidauraus in addition to Nafplio (Nauplia), the previous capital of Greece.
8. Nafplio
Nafplio, the primary capital of contemporary Greece, combines historical past, structure, and beautiful sea views. Go to the Palamidi Fortress and benefit from the panoramic view of the town and the Argolic Gulf. Stroll across the outdated city with its Venetian homes and neoclassical mansions, stopping at Syntagma Sq. to discover the Archaeological Museum.
Take a ship journey to Bourtzi, a Venetian fortress on an island in the course of the town’s harbor. Lastly, take pleasure in native dishes at a seaside restaurant and discover the town’s vibrant nightlife.
Mix a number of the greatest day journeys from Athens with this extremely rated guided tour. Your tour information is a certified historian who will take you to the Corinth Canal, Palamidi Fortress, the Acropolis of Nafplio, and the well-known Historic Theatre of Epidaurus. You’ll even have a cease at Karathonas Seashore for a dip within the Aegean Sea.
9. Spetses Island
Spetses is without doubt one of the most picturesque Saronic islands that may be a two-hour-long journey by ferry from Athens. This stunning island boasts a wealthy maritime historical past and stylish structure.
Uncover the island’s historical past on the Museum of Spetses and the Home of Bouboulina, a museum devoted to the feminine admiral who performed a major position within the 1821 Battle of Independence. The Outdated Harbor space, with its outdated mansions and the grand Poseidonion Lodge, is properly value a go to.
Hire a motorcycle or a horse-drawn carriage to discover the city or hop on a water taxi to go to a number of the island’s stunning seashores like Agia Marina and Agioi Anargyroi. Keep in mind to pattern native delicacies at one of many island’s quite a few seafood eating places or taverns.
This e-bike biking tour is a half-day tour that takes you round the principle sights of the small island to see the outdated harbor and study concerning the island’s historical past.
10. Aegina Island
Aegina is an idyllic island recognized for its pistachio orchards, historic ruins, and white stone homes. Begin your journey by visiting the Temple of Aphaia, an historic architectural masterpiece that kinds a sacred triangle with the Parthenon and the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion.
Discover the charming city with its conventional homes, and don’t miss the native market the place you should buy the well-known Aegina pistachios. For seaside fans, Marathonas, Agia Marina, and Perdika are all wonderful decisions. When you have time, a go to to the tiny island of Moni, a nature reserve filled with peacocks and deer, is extremely really useful.
You too can e-book a day cruise to Aegina. This full day boat tour enables you to uncover the Saronic Sea on a basic picket sailboat. Get pleasure from views of the Saronic Gulf as you sip cocktails and luxuriate in snacks en path to the islands of Agistri and Aegina. Benefit from the seashores and take an optionally available bike tour. You’ll even have stops at Moni or Nisis Metopi.
11. Lake Vouliagmeni
Only a quick drive from the town heart, Lake Vouliagmeni is a surprising pure lake with therapeutic properties. Swim within the heat, mineral-rich waters, which preserve a relentless temperature year-round. For the adventurous, discover the lake’s underwater cave community, dwelling to the elusive Lutra, a small underwater sea creature.
After enjoyable by the lake, go to the close by Vouliagmeni city, recognized for its upscale eating places and delightful seashores. Attempt some native delicacies or take a stroll alongside the marina.
Day excursions might be booked from Athens to see Lake Vouliagmeni mixed with the Athens Riviera. This extremely rated personal tour takes you by van to see Lake Vouliagmeni, the historic city of Lavrio, and the Temple of Poseidon.
12. Mystras
Journey to Mystras, a UNESCO World Heritage Website referred to as the ‘Marvel of Morea.’ As soon as a thriving Byzantine metropolis, immediately, it’s an archaeological treasure. Begin your day by exploring the Palace of Despots, the town’s most distinguished monument. Then, go to the Peribleptos Monastery to admire the best-preserved frescoes in Mystras.
Don’t miss the Pantanassa Monastery. It’s the solely inhabited a part of the positioning that’s truly dwelling to a small group of nuns. Ensure that to hike as much as the Fortress on prime of the hill for a panoramic view of the encircling landscapes.
Wrap up your go to by exploring the Museum of Mystras, the place you’ll uncover a group of artifacts that provide insights into the town’s previous.
This tour takes you to Mystras and Historic Sparta skip the bus journey and luxuriate in an air-conditioned van to see Sparta, Mystras, and the Corinth Canal.
13. Olympia
Who wouldn’t wish to see the birthplace of the Olympic Video games? Start by exploring the archaeological website, which incorporates the Temple of Zeus, as soon as dwelling to one of many Seven Wonders of the Historic World, the Statue of Zeus. The Temple of Hera, the traditional Olympic Stadium, and the Palaestra are additionally must-sees.
Prolong your information on the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, which hosts a unbelievable assortment of artifacts from the positioning. Don’t overlook to go to the Museum of the Historical past of the Historic Olympic Video games to find out about this important side of Greek tradition.
14. Mount Parnitha Nationwide Park
Escape the hustle and bustle of metropolis life with a visit to Mount Parnitha Nationwide Park, an oasis of greenery on Athens’ doorstep. For mountaineering fans, there are quite a few trails weaving by way of the park, providing panoramic views over Athens. As you discover, maintain an eye fixed out for the varied wildlife, together with crimson deer, foxes, and a wide range of hen species.
Go to the Mpafi Refuge, the place you may relaxation, have a meal, and even spend the evening. When you’re a fan of thriller and historical past, discover the park’s deserted royal summer season residences and the Tatoi Palace, including a contact of human historical past to the pure grandeur.
15. Nemea
Nemea is a paradise for wine lovers. Recognized for its crimson wine manufacturing, particularly the Agiorgitiko grape, visiting the native wineries and vineyards must be on the prime of your to-do listing. Take a wine-tasting tour, go to the cellars, and study concerning the area’s wine-making course of.
Along with wine, Nemea is wealthy in historical past. Discover the Archaeological Website of Nemea, which incorporates the traditional stadium the place the Nemean Video games have been held, and the Temple of Zeus. You’ll want to go to the Archaeological Museum of Nemea to additional delve into the area’s fascinating previous.
Guide a guided tour to the Vineyards of Nemea. This wine tour takes you to one of many largest vineyards in Greece the place you’ll style native wines at two separate vineyards and Go to Historic Nemea and see the 4th-century-B.C. stadium
16. Marathon
Revisit historic historical past when visiting Marathon. Marathon is synonymous with long-distance races because of the legendary run of Pheidippides from the battlefield to Athens.
Begin your go to on the Marathon Tomb, a burial mound for the troopers who fought within the Battle of Marathon. The close by Archaeological Museum of Marathon gives additional insights into the realm’s historical past.
Nature lovers ought to go to Schinias Nationwide Park, dwelling to the gorgeous Schinias Seashore and a coastal pine forest. If time permits, make a visit to the Marathon Dam, a powerful feat of engineering, and luxuriate in a picnic on the Lake Marathon Reservoir.
The place Ought to I Go on a Day Journey from Athens?
There are quite a few Athens day journeys which are simply accessible. Some wonderful day journey locations embrace the historic website of Delphi, Cape Sounion with the awe-inspiring Temple of Poseidon, Hydra Island, or Poros Island.
Different day journeys from Athens embrace the engineering marvel of the Corinth Canal, the majestic panorama of Meteora, the historic websites of Mycenae and Epidaurus, the elegant metropolis of Nafplio, the maritime city of Spetses Island, the idyllic Aegina Island, the therapeutic Lake Vouliagmeni, the traditional metropolis of Mystras, the Olympic birthplace of Olympia, the inexperienced oasis of Parnitha Nationwide Park, the wine paradise of Nemea, and the legendary city of Marathon.
What Islands Round Athens are Day Journeys?
A number of islands round Athens are appropriate for day journeys, providing a wide range of experiences. Among the prime islands for day journeys embrace Hydra, recognized for its car-free cobblestone streets and relaxed environment, Poros with its mix of historic websites and delightful seashores, Spetses which boasts a wealthy maritime historical past and beautiful structure, and Aegina, well-known for its pistachio orchards and historic ruins.
Are you able to Do Day Journeys to Islands from Athens?
Doing day journeys to islands from Athens is a well-liked selection for a lot of guests. The three closest islands appropriate for a day journey are Aegina, Hydra, and Poros. These islands are simply accessible by ferry, making them good for fast getaways from the hustle and bustle of Athens.
What are the Three Closest Islands to Athens Me
The three closest islands appropriate for a day journey are Aegina, Hydra, and Poros.
In conclusion
A go to to Athens is without doubt one of the most memorable holidays we’ve ever taken. The Cradle of Western Civilization, Athens is stuffed with essential ruins that helped to form the world as we all know it.