Escape the City and Explore These Beautiful Day Trips from Athens

Athens may be best known for its ancient history and iconic landmarks, but there are also plenty of amazing day trips to be had just outside the city.

From stunning beaches to ancient ruins, there’s something for everyone on this list of the top day trips from Athens. So pack your sunscreen, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to explore all that Greece has to offer!

Delphi

photo of stone ruins with mountains in delphi greece

Nestled about two hours northwest of Athens, Delphi is a must-see for history enthusiasts.

The ancient city once housed the renowned Oracle of Delphi and was thought of as the center of the world by the ancient Greeks.

Today, visitors can wander through the well-preserved Temple of Apollo and the ancient theater.

Cape Sounion

phot of aerial view of temple of poseidon in cape sounion greece

Situated on the southern tip of Attica, Cape Sounion is home to the Temple of Poseidon, a popular day trip from Athens.

The temple, built in the 5th century BC, boasts breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.

Swimmers and paddlers can also take a dip in the crystal-clear waters at one of the many nearby beaches.

Aegina

photo of the town of Aegina next to ocean with ruins in greece

Aegina, just an hour away by ferry from Piraeus, is a beloved day trip destination for Athenians and tourists alike.

The island boasts stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and a charming main town.

Make sure to visit the Temple of Aphaia and the Archaeological Museum of Aegina.

Corinth

photo of a deep canal in corinth greece with bridge

Located about an hour west of Athens, Corinth is home to the ancient city of Corinth and the Corinth Canal.

Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of the city, including the Temple of Apollo and the Agora, or take a boat tour through the canal.

Hydra

photo of the harbour and town at Hydra island greece

A picturesque island situated about two hours by ferry from Piraeus, Hydra is known for its stunning beaches and charming main town.

Be sure to visit the Hydra Museum and the Hydra Naval Museum.

Epidaurus

photo of an ancient amiptheatre at Epidaurus greece

Epidaurus, about an hour and a half southwest of Athens, is home to the ancient theater of Epidaurus, one of the best-preserved theaters in Greece.

Visitors can explore the theater and the nearby archaeological site, including the Temple of Asklepios and the ancient gymnasium.

Nafplio

photo of cliffs by ocean in nafplio greece

Located about two hours southwest of Athens, Nafplio is a charming coastal town known for its stunning Venetian architecture and beautiful beaches.

Be sure to visit the Palamidi Castle, the Bourtzi Castle, and the Archaeological Museum of Nafplio.

Mycenae

photo of stone ruins at Mycenae in greece

Mycenae, located about an hour and a half southwest of Athens, is an ancient city known for its well-preserved ruins and rich history.

Adventurers can explore the citadel, the Royal Tomb, and the Mycenaean Acropolis.

Marathon

photo of a statue of a man in a running pose in greece

Marathon, located about an hour northeast of Athens, is home to the famous marathon route and the Marathon Tomb.

Visitors can explore the ancient city and the nearby beach, or take a stroll along the marathon route.

Vravrona

photo of the sanctuary of Vravrona, ruins in greece
Ava Babili, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Vravrona, located about an hour east of Athens, is home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the best-preserved temples in Greece.

Tourists can also explore the Vravrona Archaeological Site and the Vravrona Wetlands.

Whether you’re a history buff, beach bum, or just looking to escape the city for a while, these day trips from Athens are sure to delight.

Start planning your adventure today and discover all the beauty and wonder that Greece has to offer!

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