As an experienced traveler with a strong affinity for antiquity and culture, I can confidently affirm that Athens is one of the most remarkable destinations on earth. The Greek capital provides an amazing amalgamation of ancient ruins, archaeological spots, galleries and scenic seaside villages that will certainly enthrall any visitor. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best day trips from Athens city center that will take you back to ancient times and immerse you in Greek mythology and history. From visiting Delphi’s breathtaking views to exploring Meteora’s incredible archaeological site or taking an organized cruise to nearby islands like Aegina or Hydra – there is something for everyone! So sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the wonders of modern Greece while uncovering its rich past.
Aegina Island
Aegina Island is the perfect destination for a day trip from Athens. Just a short ferry ride away, Aegina offers plenty of activities and attractions to keep you busy all day long. From ancient ruins to sandy beaches, there’s something for everyone on this picturesque island.
Aegina is renowned for its archaeological sites, many of which are relics from the Mycenaean civilization and Ancient Greece. You can visit the archaeological museum in Aegina Town or take a guided tour of some of the ancient ruins around the island, including an ancient theater and several temples dedicated to various gods from Ancient Greek mythology.
If you’re looking for an easy day trip outside Athens, then head over to Delphi Archeological Museum located just north of Nafplio town. At the Delphi Archeological Museum, situated north of Nafplio, one can explore relics from millennia past which offer a window into the lives of Ancient Greeks. Public transport is available between Nafplio and Delphi so it’s easy to spend a few hours here before heading back towards Athens Terminal Station.
For those who want more than just history on their vacation, nearby islands like Halkida offer stunning views with iconic temple complexes as well as picturesque seaside towns where visitors can relax while enjoying delicious local food at ouzeries (Greek taverns). There are also plenty of opportunities for swimming or sunbathing at one of Aegina’s many beaches – making it an ideal place for families looking for fun-filled days out. And if you have time left after exploring all these amazing places, don’t forget about visiting nearby Mystras – another outstanding destination steeped in history.
Aegina Island is a beautiful destination for day trips from Athens, offering breathtaking views and plenty of activities to explore. Ancient Corinth offers more historical sites as well as archaeological ruins that will take you back in time.
Ancient Corinth
Ancient Corinth is a must-see destination for history buffs and vacationers alike. Located just an hour’s drive from Athens, the city has plenty of archaeological sites to explore, as well as Context Learning seminars that will give you insight into Greece’s past.
The ancient Temple of Apollo stands atop Acrocorinth and is one of the most iconic landmarks in all of Greece. The temple dates back to 590 BC and offers stunning views over the Saronic Gulf. Visitors can also find ruins from other temples like Demeter and Poseidon nearby.
For those looking for a more interactive experience, there are many guided tours available throughout Ancient Corinth which offer visitors the chance to learn about its rich history firsthand. For those interested in a more immersive experience, Ancient Corinth boasts various museums like the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth, displaying relics from ages past including sculptures, coins, jewelry and pottery.
When it comes to dining out or grabbing a bite on-the-go while exploring this beautiful city, Ancient Corinth has something for everyone. From traditional Greek tavernas serving up delicious local dishes like moussaka or souvlaki skewers to modern cafes offering freshly brewed coffee with homemade cakes – you won’t be disappointed. There are even wineries located around town where guests can sample some exquisite wines produced right here in Greece.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or simply want to soak up some culture while visiting Greece, make sure not to miss out on experiencing all that Ancient Corinth has to offer. With its impressive historical sites, engaging activities and mouthwatering cuisine, it is definitely worth checking out during your next trip abroad.
Ancient Corinth is a great spot for those wanting to discover the ancient Greek past, with its remnants and structures from antiquity. Halkida is an ideal day trip from Athens, offering visitors plenty of activities to enjoy while taking in stunning views of nature along the way.
Halkida
Halkida is a picturesque seaside town located just an hour away from Athens Terminal Station. It’s the perfect destination for those looking to take a day trip and explore Greece’s rich history. Here, you can visit nearby destinations such as Delphi or participate in Context Learning seminars that will teach you about ancient times.
If you’re looking for archaeological sites, Halkida has plenty of them. Check out the Archaeological Museum for relics from Mycenaean times, or take a guided tour of the ancient ruins close to downtown. There are also some amazing main attractions here, like an ancient theater and Delphi Archeological Museum.
You can easily spend your time exploring all that Halkida has to offer by taking public transport around town or even renting a car if you’d prefer more flexibility with your itinerary. From here, it’s easy to make day trips out to other nearby islands like Aegina Town or Ancient Corinth – both outstanding destinations worth visiting while in Greece. Don’t forget to check out iconic temples like Nafplio when planning your vacation – it’s one of the most beautiful places in all of Greece.
No matter what type of traveler you are, there is something for everyone at Halkida – from learning about Greek culture and its archaeological past to simply enjoying some stunning views along its coastlines. No matter your travel preferences, you’ll have no difficulty uncovering an entertaining and stimulating experience during your stay in Halkida.
Halkida is a great destination for those looking to explore the cultural heritage of Greece. Poros Island offers plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in ancient history and take in breathtaking views over Aegean Sea.
Poros Island
Poros Island is a must-see destination for any vacationer looking to explore the beauty of Greece. Located in the Saronic Gulf, it’s just a short ferry ride away from Athens and provides visitors with an abundance of sights and activities to enjoy. The most popular attraction on Poros Island is undoubtedly the Temple Of Poseidon, which dates back to ancient times. From the cliff top, visitors can take in a majestic view of the Aegean Sea that will leave them speechless. Visitors can also explore archaeological museums or wander through old-world romance as they take in all that Poros has to offer.
For those seeking outdoor adventure, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring around Poros Island. One of the most popular hikes is up Kiafa Rock, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over Hydra Town at its summit. If you’re feeling brave enough, try taking a dip in one of the many secluded coves scattered throughout Poros – perfect for cooling off after an invigorating hike. Finally, don’t forget about Hydra Harbor; one of Greece’s most picturesque harbors offering stunning sunset views that will make your stay even more memorable. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure – Poros Island has something for everyone
Poros Island offers an unforgettable experience with its ancient Temple of Poseidon and stunning views over the Aegean Sea. Taking a trip to Hydra Island is sure to be equally as rewarding, offering visitors breathtaking sights such as Hydra Harbor and Kiafa Rock.
Hydra Island
Hydra Island is a stunningly beautiful Greek island that offers vacationers the perfect getaway. Located just a short ferry ride away from Athens, Hydra Island is renowned for its traditional architecture and quaint streets.
One of the most popular attractions on Hydra Island is Hydra Harbor. This picturesque harbor offers visitors breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea as well as stunning sunsets each night. At Hydra Harbor, visitors can savor the local delicacies while admiring the beautiful views of the Aegean Sea and its stunning sunsets.
Another must-see attraction on Hydra Island is Kiafa Rock, a rock formation that stands over 400 feet tall and provides panoramic views of nearby Hydra Town. Hiking up this rock formation can be quite challenging but definitely worth it when you reach the top. Along with offering amazing views, Kiafa Rock also serves as an important historical site; legend has it that Poseidon himself once stood atop this rocky outcrop to survey his domain below him.
For a laid-back seaside escape or to discover the culture and history of Greece, Hydra Island offers something for everyone. With its spectacular scenery and plethora of activities, this Greek paradise should not be missed – it truly is an unforgettable experience.
Hydra Island is a stunning and unique destination that offers visitors the opportunity to experience breathtaking views, vibrant culture, and historic sites. Mystras promises an even more enriching journey with its fascinating ruins of Byzantine monuments set against a backdrop of lush mountainside.
Mystras
Situated in the Peloponnese region of Greece, Mystras is an archaeological site that showcases remnants from the Byzantine Empire. It’s a great day trip from Athens, easily accessible by public transport or a guided tour. Mystras was once home to the Byzantine Empire and its ruins offer an incredible insight into ancient times. The Kaisariani Monastery is one of the main attractions at Mystras, with its intricately detailed frescoes dating back to seventeenth century AD. You can also explore other nearby archaeological sites such as Ancient Corinth and Ancient Mycenaean Civilization which are easily reached by public transport or car hire.
The picturesque seaside town of Nafplio is another must-see destination on your visit to Mystras, where you can easily spend a day exploring the iconic Temple of Apollo and visiting the Delphi Archaeological Museum. Aegina Island is also close by, making it easy for visitors to take advantage of their time in this part of Greece and explore some of its many outstanding destinations like nearby islands and beaches.
No matter what kind of vacationer you are, Mystras has something for everyone – from discovering ancient ruins to relaxing on beautiful beaches. Make sure to book your vacation rental today for the perfect getaway.
FAQs in Relation to Day Trips From Athens
Can you do a day trip from Athens?
Yes, it is possible to do a day trip from Athens. Athens is conveniently situated near numerous attractions that can be explored in a single day’s outing. There are several tour operators offering various excursions such as sightseeing tours, hiking trips, boat cruises, wine tasting experiences and more. With the help of these services you can explore archaeological sites like Acropolis or Ancient Agora or take a short drive out of town for some beach time at nearby islands like Aegina or Poros. Whatever your choice may be, a day trip from Athens is definitely possible and highly recommended.
What islands can you do a day trip from Athens?
Day trips from Athens are plentiful, with several Greek islands within easy reach. Aegina is the closest and can be reached in an hour by ferry. Hydra and Poros offer picturesque views of the Saronic Gulf, while Spetses has a unique blend of traditional architecture and modern amenities. The Cyclades Islands such as Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Naxos and Syros provide stunning scenery that’s perfect for exploring on foot or bike. Finally, Crete offers some of Greece’s most beautiful beaches along its southern coast. All these destinations make great day trips from Athens.
Is Meteora worth a day trip from Athens?
Yes, Meteora is worth a day trip from Athens. The incredible monasteries perched atop the sandstone pillars, as well as the quaint villages nearby, make Meteora an ideal destination for a day trip from Athens. The monasteries perched atop enormous sandstone pillars are awe-inspiring, while the nearby villages offer unique local culture and cuisine. With its easy access from Athens by car or bus, it’s definitely worth making time for a visit to this remarkable part of Greece.
Is it possible to do a day trip from Athens to Santorini?
Yes, it is possible to do a day trip from Athens to Santorini. The journey can be completed in just under 6 hours if you take the ferry from Piraeus port in Athens and arrive at Athinios Port on Santorini. Therefore, it is recommended to book an overnight stay in order to maximize the experience of a day trip from Athens to Santorini.
Conclusion
Daytrips from Athens are an excellent opportunity to discover the regions around and gain a sight of what Greece has in store. From Aegina Island with its ancient ruins, Halkida’s beautiful beaches, Poros Island for nature lovers or Hydra Island for those looking for nightlife – there is something here that will appeal to everyone. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation or culture – these day trips from Athens provide it all.
Discover the perfect getaway for your next day trip from Athens withRentByOwner.com! With a wide selection of vacation rentals, you can find exactly what you’re looking for to make your experience unforgettable.
Featured Image Credit:Sven Hansche
FAQs
How many days in Athens is enough? ›
How long should I spend in Athens? Given the size of the city, three days is a good amount of time to spend in Athens. This gives you enough time to visit the main attractions without being too rushed and allows you to see some of the city.
What is the best way to travel from Athens to the Greek islands? ›The most popular transportation means to go from Athens to the Greek islands is by ferry. It is the easiest way even if many flights are available to reach the islands. Although Piraeus is the central port of Athens, many ferries also depart from the ports of Rafina and Lavrion.
What is the easiest island to get to from Athens? ›The easiest islands to get to from Athens are Hydra, Spetses, Aegina, Poros, and Agistri. These are all within a 1.5-hour ferry trip from Piraeus port and are all perfect for a day trip.
Are there day trips from Athens to Mykonos? ›Ferry – Another option for traveling from Athens to Mykonos on a day trip, is by ferry. This service runs from April to October, which is the main tourist period, and takes approximately 2.5 hours each way; this does take longer than flying, but it is a very scenic and enjoyable mode of transport.
How long is the ferry ride from Athens to Santorini? ›The Athens to Santorini ferry time is usually 5 to 13 hr. The duration of the trip to Santorini depends mainly on the type of vessel and the ferry company. Tip: bear in mind that ferry timetables are subject to change. Therefore, make sure to check your departure time before your trip.
What are the best months to visit Athens Greece? ›Peak season is summer, when Athens is packed with tourists, and hotel prices can be high. July and August are the hottest. The best time to visit is late spring (May) and fall (Sept-Oct). It's pleasant, with comfortable weather, no rain, and smaller crowds (except during holiday weekends).
Can you do day trips to Greek islands from Athens? ›You can travel by ferry from Athens to nearby islands such as Aegina, Agistri, Hydra, Kea, Spetses, Poros, and Kythnos, as well as other beautiful islands of the Aegean Sea, such as Rhodes, Santorini, Mykonos, Milos, Crete, Lesbos, Kastellorizo, and so many more!
Which island is best to visit from Athens? ›- Aegina Island. Aegina is the nearest island to the Greek capital. ...
- Agistri Island. It only takes a quick ferry journey from Aegina to reach the tiny island of Agistri. ...
- Poros Island. ...
- Spetses Island. ...
- Hydra Island. ...
- Andros Island. ...
- Kea Island.
Aegina. Just an hour from the port of Piraeus, Aegina is the island closest to Athens. Here you'll enjoy ancient temples, stone-built Byzantine churches, a delightful old-fashioned port town, delicious local pistachio nuts and a swimming season that lasts until late autumn.
Is Aegina worth a day trip? ›Aegina Island is what Greece is all about. If you're visiting Athens, you should definitely consider taking a day trip to Aegina or even spending a couple of days on this unspoiled Greek island. Either way, this list of things to do in Aegina is a great starting point to explore all this small island has to offer.
Which Greek islands are worth to visit from Athens? ›
The best islands for a day trip from Athens are the Saronic islands, Aegina, Agistri, Poros, Hydra and Spetses, and the Cycladic island of Kea or Tzia.
Is Hydra island worth a visit? ›Hydra's proximity to Athens makes its a popular destination for day trips or weekend breaks, and its small size means you can see a lot, but it's a good place to relax and take it easy.
Can you take a day trip from Athens to Santorini? ›The only way in which you can travel from Athens to Santorini in a day is to fly. The flights from Athens International Airport depart daily and pretty much run every hour.
Is a day trip to Mykonos enough? ›You can have a satisfying visit in one day, taking in the Cycladic architecture of Mykonos town and the cocktails of "Little Venice." But it's easy to fill up to five days of sightseeing, beach-hopping, and enjoying the island's famous nightlife.
Are there day trips from Athens to Santorini? ›A Taking a boat from Athens to the Santorini is approximately a 6 hour journey, so it would not be possible to operate a one day tour without a flight.
Which is prettier Santorini or Mykonos? ›The scenery, views, sunsets, and natural beauty of Santorini are unrivaled by Mykonos or any other Greek island. Mykonos is not without its beautiful spots but for scenes that are truly jaw-dropping, Santorini wins hands-down. Santorini is more romantic and much better suited to a honeymoon or couples vacation.
Is a day trip to Santorini enough? ›1 day in Santorini gives you just enough time to visit the highlights. Ideally, plan to spend two nights on Santorini, so that you have one full day to explore the island.
Is it better to fly or take a ferry between the Greek islands? ›To save time, consider flying. Compared with boats, flights are less likely to be delayed or cancelled, tend to offer more frequent connections, and are much faster — but often more expensive. Two major Greek carriers offer daily flights from Athens to many Greek islands are Olympic Airlines and Aegean Airlines.
What is the rainiest month in Athens Greece? ›August is the hottest month in Athens with an average temperature of 28.7°C (84°F) and the coldest is January at 10°C (50°F) with the most daily sunshine hours at 12 in July. The wettest month is December with an average of 97.6mm of rain.
What is the cheapest month to visit Athens Greece? ›Book at least 4 weeks before departure in order to get a below-average price. High season is considered to be June and July. The cheapest month to fly to Greece is October.
What is the rainiest season in Greece? ›
Does Greece have a rainy season? Yes, the rainy season in Greece lasts from the end of September until June. November and December are the rainiest months of the year. July and August are the driest months, with almost no rain.
Is 2 days enough for Athens? ›Although 2 days might not seem like enough time to visit the Greek capital city, 2 days is more than enough to experience the main attractions in Athens! This is the perfect Athens itinerary for anyone on a city break or combining as part of a longer Greek Islands itinerary.
Is 4 days in Athens too much? ›Three to four days in Athens is usually enough to see the city's main attractions and landmarks, such as the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Agora. However, if you want to explore the city's neighborhoods and suburbs, or visit nearby islands and ancient sites, you may want to stay longer.
Is 7 days in Athens too long? ›It's not too long for Athens and with your interest. Athens is a good mix of urban / quieter areas + parks / builtup areas that can keep you busy easily for a week.
Is 5 days enough for Athens Greece? ›Five days in Greece affords you a satisfying trip to Athens or one major island. Those interested in ancient history can get lost in the Greek capital, with famous sites like the Acropolis in the city limits and many nearby ruins just a day-trip away.
How long does it take to see the Acropolis? ›10. Schedule enough time for your visit. Average speaking you need around 1.5 - 2 hours to ascend the hill and see the monuments of the Acropolis. Of course, you can spend as long as you want and taking as many pictures as you wish, then add some extra strolling and picture time to it.
Is Athens Hop on Hop off worth it? ›The hop on hop off Athens bus is a good way to get around the Greek capital. This is particularly true if you are somewhat limited on time. For instance, perhaps you are only in Athens for a day while you're on a wider Mediterranean cruise.
Is one day sufficient for Athens? ›Is 1 day enough for Athens? Yes, one day in Athens is more than enough to hit up the main sights. With a robust public transportation system, it's easy to see a lot of places in Athens even if you only have one or two days to explore.
How many days in Athens and Santorini? ›Seven to 10 days is the most popular trip length for Greece travelers interested in visiting both Athens and Santorini, especially when also including Mykonos. If you're only headed to Athens and Santorini, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in 5 to 7 days.
What are the cheapest months to visit Athens? ›Visiting Greece on a budget is possible. All you need to do is plan accordingly. According to Skyscanner, the cheapest months to book a flight to Greece are September, October, and November.
How many days in Santorini is enough? ›
Santorini is the top tourist destination in Greece and is world-famous for its unique natural beauty. The caldera with the white villages on top, the sunken volcano, and the charming sunset make it a popular place for vacation. In brief, we recommend staying 3 to 5 days in order to visit as many places as possible.
How many days in Greece is enough? ›How Many Days in Greece: For most tourists, I recommend a visit of 10 to 15 days. This allows for a few days in Athens; a day trip to Nafplio, Delphi, or the Meteora; and a few nights on 2 or 3 Greek islands. Of course, trips of more or fewer days are possible.
How far is Santorini from Athens by plane? ›How to Get from Athens to Santorini. The distance between Athens and Santorini is 186 miles (300 km). The most convenient way to travel between them is by plane, which takes 50 minutes flying from Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (ATH).
Which is better Mykonos or Santorini? ›Santorini is best known as a romantic island with one-of-a-kind views, whereas Mykonos is more about sandy beaches and spirited partying. Depending on the vibe you seek, both islands suit holidays à deux. Solo travellers and groups of friends will also find both appealing, though Mykonos offers more in terms of edge.
Is it worth going to Greece for 7 days? ›By spending 7 days in Greece, you can experience everything from the grandeur of Ancient Athens to the beautiful beaches of the Cyclades islands. You can put together a Greece itinerary that includes whatever interests you have for the ultimate dream trip!
Is Athens a cheap city? ›Athens is a great city where you can spend more or spend less – it's honestly what you make it! We felt that the rent was much cheaper compared to other major European cities and you can get great value for money in Athens. Once you get a good deal on your accommodation, your other expenses can be relatively low.