9 Best Day Trips From Athens - Places To Visit, Things To Do & How To Reach

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There are many short day trips from Athens, Greece, with historical sites, beaches, nature sites, and exotic islands. So if you are planning Athens in your Greece itinerary, design some of the best Athens day trips too.

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Best Day Trips From Athens (Athens Day Trips)

ALSO READ: Where To Get Lost In Historical Athens – Athens Itinerary

Here is a list of some of the best day trips from Athens or best places to visit near Athens, including information on distance, routes, how to reach the destinations, things to do, and some valuable tips:

Delphi

Distance from Athens: Approximately 180 km (112 miles) northwest of Athens.
Route: Take the National Road Athens-Lamia (E75) and follow the signs to Delphi.
How to reach: You can reach Delphi by car, bus, or book a day trip to Delphi from Athens.
Things to do: Visit the archaeological site of Delphi, and explore the Temple of Apollo, the Delphi Museum, and the Ancient Theater. Enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the ancient ruins.
Useful tips: Start your visit early to avoid crowds and take comfortable shoes for walking uphill.

Cape Sounion

Distance from Athens: Approximately 70 km (43 miles) southeast of Athens.
Route: Take the coastal road from Athens towards the southernmost tip of Attica.
How to reach: You can drive to Cape Sounion, take a public bus, or book a sunset guided tour to Cape Sounion from Athens.
Things to do: Visit the iconic Temple of Poseidon, enjoy panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, explore the nearby beaches, and witness the breathtaking sunset.
Useful tips: Plan your visit in the late afternoon to witness the sunset, and bring sunscreen and water.

Aegina Island

Distance from Athens: Aegina is located in the Saronic Gulf, approximately 27 km (17 miles) southwest of Athens.
Route: Take a ferry from Piraeus Port to Aegina. The journey takes around 40 minutes.
How to reach: You can reach Aegina by ferry from Piraeus Port or book a guided tour to Aegina with Hydra. There are regular ferry services.
Things to do: Explore the picturesque town of Aegina, visit the Temple of Aphaia, relax on the beautiful beaches, and try the local pistachios.
Useful tips: Take the earliest ferry to have more time on the island, and consider renting a bike or scooter to explore Aegina more efficiently.

Nafplio

Distance from Athens: Approximately 140 km (87 miles) southwest of Athens.
Route: Take the National Road Athens-Corinth (E94), continue on the Corinth-Tripoli Highway (E65), and follow the signs to Nafplio.
How to reach: You can reach Nafplio by car, bus, or guided tour from Athens with a few places.
Things to do: Explore the charming old town of Nafplio, visit the Palamidi Fortress, the Bourtzi Castle, and the Archaeological Museum. Enjoy the beautiful beaches and the local cuisine.
Useful tips: Nafplio can get crowded during weekends and holidays, so plan your visit accordingly. Climb the stairs of the Palamidi Fortress early in the morning to avoid the heat.

Hydra Island

Distance from Athens: Hydra is located in the Saronic Gulf, approximately 67 km (42 miles) southwest of Athens.
Route: Take a ferry from Piraeus Port to Hydra. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
How to reach: You can reach Hydra by ferry from Piraeus Port or book guided tours to Hydra with other places. There are regular ferry services.
Things to do: Explore the car-free island, enjoy the charming harbor of Hydra Town, hike the scenic trails, relax on the beaches, and visit the Historical Archive Museum.
Useful tips: Hydra is known for its picturesque streets, so take your time to wander around. Remember that no cars or scooters are allowed on this island.

Mycenae

Distance from Athens: Approximately 120 km (75 miles) southwest of Athens.
Route: Take the National Road Athens-Corinth (E94), continue on the Corinth-Tripoli Highway (E65), and follow the signs to Mycenae.
How to reach: You can reach Mycenae by car, bus, or organized tours.
Things to do: Explore the ancient archaeological site of Mycenae, visit the Lion Gate, the Treasury of Atreus (also known as the Tomb of Agamemnon), and the Mycenae Museum.
Useful tips: Wear comfortable shoes with a fair amount of walking involved, and consider visiting the site early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.

Meteora

Distance from Athens: Approximately 350 km (217 miles) northwest of Athens.
Trip to Delphi and Meteora from Athens
Route: Take the National Road Athens-Lamia (E75) and follow the signs to Meteora.
How to reach: The best way to reach Meteora is by taking a train from Athens to the nearby town of Kalambaka or booking guided tours from Athens. You can take a taxi or local bus to the monasteries from there.
Things to do: Marvel at the impressive rock formations and visit the ancient monasteries atop the cliffs. Explore the hiking trails, enjoy panoramic views, and enjoy the spiritual atmosphere.
Useful tips: It’s advisable to join a guided tour or hire a local guide to learn about the history and significance of the monasteries. Dress modestly and be prepared for uphill walks and stairs.

Corinth

Distance from Athens: Approximately 80 km (50 miles) west of Athens.
Route: Take the National Road Athens-Corinth (E94).
How to reach: You can reach Corinth by car, bus, or guided tour.
Things to do: Visit the ancient archaeological site of Ancient Corinth, explore the Temple of Apollo, the Roman Odeon, and the Archaeological Museum. Take a walk across the Corinth Canal and enjoy the coastal views.
Useful tips: Combine your visit to Ancient Corinth with a trip to the nearby Acrocorinth, a fortress hill with panoramic views. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, as it can get hot during summer.

Sounio National Park

Distance from Athens: Approximately 68 km (42 miles) southeast of Athens.
Route: Take the coastal road from Athens towards Cape Sounion.
How to reach: You can drive to Sounio National Park, take a public bus to Cape Sounion, and explore the park on foot.
Things to do: Enjoy hiking trails through pine forests, visit the Koutouki Cave, discover hidden beaches, and explore the diverse flora and fauna of the national park.
Useful tips: Carry insect repellent, wear comfortable shoes for hiking, and pack a picnic to enjoy in the park.

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Frequently Asked Questions (Places to Visit near Athens)

Here are some frequently asked questions that first-time tourists may have about short day trips from Athens:

How many day trips can I realistically take from Athens?

- It depends on the duration of your stay in Athens and your personal preferences. However, taking 2-3 day trips from Athens is common during a week-long visit. This allows you to explore different destinations without feeling rushed.
  HARBOUR

Is it better to join a guided tour or explore independently?

- Both options have their advantages. Guided tours provide convenience, organized transportation, and informative guides. Exploring without guided tours allows for more flexibility and the opportunity to customize your itinerary. Consider your preferences, budget, and the complexity of the destination when making this decision.

How do I get to the day trip destinations from Athens?

- Depending on the destination, you can reach them by car, public transportation (such as buses or trains), or by joining organized tours. Some destinations require taking a ferry or boat from the nearby ports.

Can I visit multiple day trip destinations in a single day?

- It’s possible to visit multiple day trip destinations in a single day, but it largely depends on their proximity to each other and the available transportation options. Some destinations may require more time to explore fully, so plan your itinerary accordingly.

Are English guides and signage available at the day trip destinations?

- Most popular day trip destinations cater to tourists and offer English-speaking guides and signage. However, English facilities may be limited in some remote or less touristy areas. It’s always a good idea to carry a guidebook or use a translation app to assist you.

Are entrance fees included in the day trip tours?

- Entrance fees to attractions or archaeological sites are not always included in day trip tours. Some tours may include them, while others require purchasing tickets separately. Check the tour details or inquire beforehand to know what is included.

Can I visit the day trip destinations during all seasons?

- You can visit most day trip destinations all year round. However, certain activities or attractions may be weather-dependent.

Should I book short day trips from Athens in advance?

- Better to book day trips in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (summer). This ensures availability, especially for guided tours and transportation. However, if you prefer flexibility, you can also book day trips once you arrive in Athens, depending on availability.
  Ferry/ Cruise rides between Greek Islands

What should I pack for a day trip from Athens?

- Essential items include comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a refillable water bottle, a camera, and a small backpack for your belongings. Depending on the destination and activities, you may also need swimwear, a towel, and appropriate clothing for religious sites or hiking.

Remember to check the latest information, schedules, and travel advisories for your chosen day trip destinations before embarking on your journey.

These are just a few fantastic day trips you can take from Athens. Each destination offers unique experiences, historical sites, and natural beauty. Remember to check attractions’ operating hours, plan your transportation accordingly, and have a memorable day exploring these remarkable places.

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9 Best Day Trips From Athens – Places To Visit, Things To Do & How To Reach