I love going to Athens. The Greek Gods, classic architecture and a treasure trove of myths and legends. This was the part of schooling that I really enjoyed. Delving into ancient civilizations that gave us so much of what we have today. Today I’d like to have a look at the best day trips out of Athens.
Athens itself has a lot to offer and there never seems to be enough time to catch it all. But if you think that is the main event, then you’re missing a big bit of the story. So, first we’ll take a quick look at Athens to make sure you haven’t missed too much there. Then we’ll pack some lunch and head further afield.
What to do in Athens
The city is the cultural capital of Greece and home to some of the most important archaeological sites in all of Europe. It’s a wonderful place to visit for history buffs or people interested in the classics.
You’ve probably already heard about the Acropolis, built by Pericles as a memorial to all those who died in the Peloponnesian War. What you may not know is that there are other amazing monuments nearby, like the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Parthenon, which together make up what’s known as the Acropolis Museum. The museum itself is worth a visit, with one of largest collections of classical art anywhere on Earth.
Is your interest more modern? If so, don’t miss out on National Archaeological Museum, one of the largest museums in Greece. The museum houses artifacts from Ancient Greece right up through Roman times. You’ll see everything from coins and pottery to sculpture, jewellery, and Byzantine icons—including some pieces by El Greco—in this wide-ranging collection.
Beach Day Trip to Patras
Patras is Greece’s third largest city, and it’s only 100 kilometers away from Athens. You can get to Patras by bus or train in two hours. The drive takes you through the famous Peloponnese countryside, so be sure to keep your camera handy!
This day trip starts with a visit to one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece—Laganas. This beach is just an hour outside of Patras and has white sand and crystal-clear water that you’ll think belongs in the Caribbean.
The next stop on this day trip is Olympia, home of the original Olympic Games. This ancient city is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and was once the capital of ancient Arcadia. In other words, it’s a must-see! Don’t forget your camera because Olympia has some amazing ruins to explore.
Mykonos Day Trip
Mykonos is the perfect spot to spend your day. This small island is known for its beaches, nightlife, and charming little markets. It’s an easy trip out of Athens that will only take about 2.5 hours by ferry.
The best way to explore this island is by renting a scooter or quad bike to get around. You’ll want to spend some time at Paradise Beach and then work your way up into town where you can visit Mykonos Town Square and explore the Old Port. There are tons of shops and restaurants lining the streets here, so make sure you stop in at one for some delicious seafood or Greek dishes like souvlaki or moussaka.
For more information about getting around in the Greek Islands, check out this post.
How to travel the Greek Islands.
Meteora Day Trip
Meteora is one of the most popular day trips outside of Athens. This UNESCO World Heritage Site captures some of Greece’s most breathtaking natural scenery for you to enjoy.
Pilgrimage routes lead to the tops of these immense, vertical cliffs, many with monasteries perched on top. These transportive monasteries are built so high up in the sky because they were once accessible only by ropes and stairs—before cars and trucks existed. As you can imagine, some people consider this a holy site.
Monemvasia Day Trip
Monemvasia is one of the most beautiful places in Greece. It’s a medieval fortress town on the northeast coast of the Peloponnese peninsula. The town is built on one of the largest natural harbors in the Mediterranean and has a stunning view of the coastline. Monemvasia was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, so you know it’s worth a visit.
If you have a few hours to spare, head to Monemvasia for some amazing views and delicious food. You can drive from Athens to Monemvasia in just over three hours.
Nafpaktos
Nafpaktos is the second largest city in West Greece. It also happens to be home to some of the best preserved Byzantine churches in all of Greece. With a population of about 25,000 people, this city might feel like your typical Greek town. But don’t let its size fool you—there’s plenty to see and do here.
Nafpaktos’ most popular landmark is the Church of St. Sophia, which was built in 1036 AD and has been continuously renovated since then. The Church is open for visitors each day between 9am-1pm, so you can visit anytime during your day trip.
Delphi
Delphi has for centuries been recognized as one of the most significant shrines in Ancient Greece. It was a place where prophecies were made, and the gods were consulted.
People from all over the world would come to Delphi seeking advice and guidance, which they would receive through the Oracle, who would be revealed by Pythia, the priestess of Apollo. The Oracle would speak cryptic phrases that people had to interpret themselves.
The only people who could understand the oracle were the priests who tended to her. It was no small coincidence that these priests spoke to everyone who entered the city seeking guidance.
They were, therefore, extremely well informed about local and worldly issues. They were probably in a very good position to interpret based on what they knew.
Delphi itself was created by Zeus. He released to birds and sent them off in opposite directions. The place where they met was deemed to be the centre of the world, and Delphi was born.
Obviously, the site now is in ruins, however there is certainly enough here to easily interpret the layout. As with many Greek sites, this one is best visited with a guide to really get the most out of it and sample the flavour of the place.
Mount Olympus and the Pelion Peninsula.
There’s a reason why Mount Olympus is known as the home of the gods. It’s one of the most beautiful natural wonders in Greece. And if you’re looking for a little adventure, this is where you want to go.
You’ll need a car to get to Mount Olympus and a little luck with the weather. If you’re lucky, there will be snow on the ground when you arrive. The Pelion Peninsula is also a must-see destination near Mount Olympus. This area boasts some of Greece’s best beaches and local cuisine. You can spend your day hiking or lounging on one of these stunning shores.
Although to be fair, I probably wouldn’t want too much snow on the beach if I’m lying on it.
Mycenae
Mycenae is in the Peloponnese region, about an hour’s drive from Athens. This ancient city has some incredible ruins, including a wide variety of houses and other structures.
Even if ruins aren’t your thing, Mycenae offers plenty of cultural experiences. The museum offers insight into life in Bronze Age Greece, while you can also explore the site on horseback, go to an archaeological exhibition at the museum, or see a religious ceremony at the Temple of Hera.
Mycenae is the place where the Trojan Wars originated. Helen of Troy was married to the King of Mycenae. When she ran off with her lover to Troy, all hell broke loose.
The story of the Illiad and the Oddysey take the story from there.
Parnassos
Parnassos is an ancient Greek mountain, which is now a National Park. There are many great reasons to visit the area, but the best one? It’s got amazing views.
Visitors can take in views of the Amphitheatre of Dionysus and the temple of Athena Pronaia – two important ruins within this park. Visitors can also enjoy terrific hikes through lush forests and see some stunning waterfalls along the way. This is a great day trip for those who love hiking and exploring natural landscapes.
Hydra
Take a ferry to the island of Hydra. It’s about an hour away from Athens. The little port town is a beautiful place to just sit and watch the world go by.
Ride the donkeys, grab some souvenirs and sample the local food. You won’t be disappointed.
Here is a link to book Greek Island ferries.
Final Thoughts
Start with Athens, then broaden your view to the wider landscape.
The question you need to ask is whether to hire a car or take a tour. So far, each time we have been there, we’ve been relatively time poor, so we took tours. If I had a little more time, I would probably grab a car and enjoy some more flexibility.
Even if you do take a car, seriously consider paying for a guide at the destination. There is a wealth of information that you won’t get otherwise. This can really help to give you a fuller picture.
If you would like some more information about traveling in the region, then try these posts.
See the magical island of Santorini.
How to spend a few days in Naxos.
My favourite things to do in Athens.
Cheers and happy travels