Athens: Ten Electrifying Day Trips Beyond the Acropolis
- The editorial team
- 18 hours ago
- 10 min read
The ancient stones of the Acropolis are just the beginning. Here are ten day trips from Athens that will plunge you into the heart of Greece's history, island charm, and breathtaking landscapes. Pack your bags – adventure awaits not far from the capital.
Delphi: The Centre of the Ancient World
Perched dramatically on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, Delphi is a spiritual experience. For centuries, Delphi was the epicentre of the ancient Greek world, a place of immense power and mystery where kings and commoners alike sought cryptic guidance from Pythia, the Oracle of Apollo. A designated UNESCO World Heritage site, Delphi's blend of awe-inspiring ruins and a sublime natural setting creates a powerful atmosphere that continues to captivate all who walk its Sacred Way.
Five Must-Sees and Dos in Delphi
Consult the Oracle at the Temple of Apollo: Stand before the remains of this iconic temple, the very spot where Pythia, the high priestess, would deliver her cryptic prophecies.
Marvel at the Treasury of the Athenians: A testament to Athenian power, this small but beautifully reconstructed building was built to house offerings to Apollo.
Take a Seat in the Ancient Theatre: Climb to the upper tiers of this remarkably preserved theatre for breathtaking views of the entire sanctuary and the valley below.
Discover Masterpieces at the Archaeological Museum: Home to treasures unearthed at the site, including the magnificent bronze Charioteer of Delphi.
Walk the Sacred Way: Follow the path ancient pilgrims took, imagining the procession of offerings and questions for the Oracle.
Hydra: The Car-Free Island Gem
The effortlessly chic island of Hydra, a longtime haven for artists, writers, and musicians, boasts an aristocratic elegance. Its history as a formidable 18th-century maritime power is evident in the grand stone mansions that curve around its perfect, horseshoe-shaped harbour. What truly sets Hydra apart is the soundscape – a blissful quiet, broken only by the chatter of café society and the clatter of hooves. With all motorised vehicles banned, transport is by donkey, water taxi, or on foot, forcing you to slow down and embrace the island's captivating, timeless rhythm.
Five Must-Sees and Dos in Hydra
Get Lost in Hydra Town: Wander the labyrinthine cobbled streets, discovering hidden squares, charming boutiques, and art galleries.
Hike the Coastal Path to Kamini: A scenic walk to a traditional fishing village with delightful seaside tavernas.
Take a Dip at Vlychos Beach: A beautiful, organised pebble beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for a refreshing swim.
Watch the Sunset from a Harbour Café: Grab a drink at one of the many waterfront cafés and watch the sky blaze with colour as the sun dips into the Aegean.
Visit the Historical Archives Museum: Delve into the island's rich maritime history and its pivotal role in the Greek War of Independence.
Getting There:
Cape Sounion: A Sunset Fit for a God
A drive along the glamorous Athenian Riviera culminates at the dramatic precipice of Cape Sounion, the southernmost point of Attica. Here stands the magnificent Temple of Poseidon. It was from this very cliff, according to legend, that King Aegeus of Athens leapt to his death, mistakenly believing his son Theseus had been slain by the Minotaur, thus giving his name to the Aegean Sea. Beyond the myth, the temple was a crucial landmark for sailors in antiquity, a gleaming white beacon promising a safe return home. To watch the sun descend into the sea behind its Doric columns is a truly elemental experience.
Five Must-Sees and Dos at Cape Sounion:
Gaze Upon the Temple of Poseidon: Marvel at the Doric columns of this 5th-century BC temple dedicated to the god of the sea.
Find Lord Byron's Graffiti: The famous poet was so moved by the site that he carved his name on one of the pillars – see if you can spot it.
Swim in the Aegean Below: Take a dip at one of the small coves at the foot of the cape for a unique perspective of the temple.
Enjoy a Seafood Lunch in a Local Taverna: The nearby town of Lavrio and the coastal road are dotted with excellent fish tavernas.
Drive the Athenian Riviera: The journey itself is an unforgettable experience, offering stunning coastal views, picturesque seaside towns, and breathtaking beaches.
Nafplio: The Romantic First Capital
Prepare to fall in love with Nafplio. Widely considered one of Greece's most romantic and beautiful towns, its atmospheric Old Town is a gorgeous tangle of narrow alleys, Venetian mansions, and flower-filled balconies. As the first capital of the newly liberated Greek state in the early 19th century, Nafplio is layered with history, its architecture a testament to the Venetians, Ottomans, and Franks who all left their mark. Crowned by the formidable Palamidi Fortress, it's a town made for strolling, sipping coffee in elegant squares, and soaking up a sophisticated, historic ambience.
Five Must-Sees and Dos in Nafplio
Climb the 999 Steps to Palamidi Fortress: The panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort, offering a bird's-eye perspective of the town and the Argolic Gulf.
Take a Boat to Bourtzi Castle: This small, fortified islet in the harbour is a picture-perfect spot for photos.
Wander the Old Town's Cobbled Alleys: Discover charming squares, boutique shops, and inviting cafés tucked away in the narrow streets.
Walk the Arvanitia Promenade: A scenic coastal path that hugs the cliffs and offers stunning sea views.
Indulge in an Ice Cream on Syntagma Square: The heart of the old town, this marble-paved square is the perfect place to relax and people-watch.
Aegina: Pistachios and Ancient Temples
A quick and easy island escape, Aegina offers a wonderfully authentic taste of Greek island life just an hour from Piraeus. In antiquity, it was a formidable maritime power and a fierce rival to Athens. Today, it's famous for its world-class pistachios – a protected designation of origin product – whose flavour is said to be enhanced by the island's unique climate and volcanic soil. Beyond its gastronomic fame, Aegina boasts the stunningly preserved Temple of Aphaia, a powerful spiritual site that predates the Parthenon and offers incredible views across the Saronic Gulf.
Five Must-Sees and Dos in Aegina
Explore the Temple of Aphaia: Predating the Parthenon, this stunning Doric temple forms one of the three points of the ancient "Holy Triangle."
Savour the Famous Aegina Pistachios: Buy them fresh from a vendor in Aegina Town, or try pistachio-infused products like honey and pastries.
Visit the Monastery of Agios Nektarios: One of the largest and most important modern Orthodox monasteries in the Balkans.
Relax on Marathonas Beach: A popular sandy beach with sunbeds and tavernas, ideal for a leisurely afternoon.
Stroll Through the Charming Aegina Town: Explore its neoclassical buildings, fish market, and bustling waterfront.
Mycenae & Epidaurus: The Heart of Ancient Greece
Venture into the sun-drenched Argolis peninsula and the first great civilisation of mainland Europe. To walk through the monumental Lion Gate into the citadel of Mycenae is to step into myth itself. Combine this with a visit to the nearby Sanctuary of Asclepius at Epidaurus, the most celebrated healing centre of the ancient world, whose astonishingly well-preserved theatre is a marvel of acoustics and architecture. This day trip is an unmissable pilgrimage to the very dawn of Western civilisation.
Five Must-Sees and Dos
Enter Mycenae through the Lion Gate: Stand in awe of this monumental entrance to the citadel, a symbol of Mycenaean power.
Discover the Treasury of Atreus: Also known as the Tomb of Agamemnon, this magnificent beehive tomb is an architectural marvel.
Test the Acoustics at the Theatre of Epidaurus: Whisper on the stage and be heard in the top tier of this astonishingly well-preserved 4th-century BC theatre.
Explore the Sanctuary of Asclepius: Wander the ruins of this ancient healing centre, once the most famous in the classical world.
Enjoy a Traditional Greek Lunch in a Nearby Village: Savour local delicacies in a rustic setting between visiting the two ancient sites.
Corinth Canal & Ancient Corinth: Engineering Marvels and Roman Ruins
First, marvel at the Corinth Canal, a breathtakingly narrow channel carved through 90 metres of solid rock in the 19th century, finally realising a dream that had eluded rulers since Roman times. Then, explore the sprawling ruins of Ancient Corinth, which, thanks to its strategic position on the isthmus, was one of the most powerful and wealthy cities in the Roman Empire. Here, you can walk in the footsteps of St. Paul and admire the powerful Doric columns of the Temple of Apollo, set against the backdrop of its formidable Acropolis, Acrocorinth.
Five Must-Sees and Dos
Marvel at the Corinth Canal: Stand on the bridge and gaze down at the sheer rock walls of this impressive man-made channel.
Explore the Ruins of Ancient Corinth: Wander through the Roman agora, the Temple of Apollo, and the Bema, where St. Paul is said to have addressed the Corinthians.
Climb Acrocorinth: For the adventurous, a hike or taxi ride up to this formidable hilltop fortress rewards with breathtaking panoramic views.
Visit the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth: See mosaics, pottery, and statues that bring the ancient city to life.
Watch for Boats Passing Through the Canal: Time your visit to see a ship being guided through the narrow waterway for a truly memorable sight.
Meteora: Monasteries in the Sky
Prepare to be utterly spellbound. The landscape of Meteora is a geological marvel, a forest of colossal sandstone pillars sculpted by the elements over millions of years. But what makes this UNESCO World Heritage site truly miraculous is what sits atop them: a collection of Eastern Orthodox monasteries, built by hermits centuries ago in an astonishing feat of faith, courage, and engineering. They appear to be suspended in the air,'. Visiting these holy retreats is a journey to a place that feels closer to heaven than earth, offering both spiritual solace and breathtaking views.
Five Must-Sees and Dos in Meteora
Visit the Great Meteoron Monastery: The largest and oldest of the monasteries, offering a fascinating insight into monastic life.
Marvel at the Monastery of St. Stephen: The most accessible monastery, with a beautiful church and stunning views over the plains of Thessaly.
Discover the Hermit Caves of Badovas: See the caves where monks lived in seclusion centuries ago.
Find the Best Photo Spots: Seek out the panoramic viewpoints at sunset for truly breathtaking photos of the rock formations and monasteries.
Enjoy Lunch in Kalabaka: The town at the foot of the rocks offers a variety of traditional tavernas for a well-deserved meal.
Poros: A Relaxing Island Escape
Lush, serene, and delightfully unpretentious, Poros is the perfect antidote to the Cycladic-island hype. Covered in pine, olive, and lemon trees, the island is separated from the mountainous Peloponnese mainland by a narrow channel of sea, giving its waterfront the feel of a beautiful river promenade. The charming Poros Town, with its pastel-hued neoclassical houses tumbling down the hillside to the lively harbour, is the island's heart. A day here is about embracing the 'siga-siga' (slowly, slowly) lifestyle: swimming in pine-fringed coves, enjoying long, lazy lunches, and soaking up the wonderfully relaxed atmosphere.
Five Must-Sees and Dos in Poros
Climb the Clock Tower: Poros Town's landmark offers fantastic views over the harbour and across to the mainland.
Relax at Love Bay: A romantic, pine-fringed cove with turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Visit the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi: A peaceful 18th-century monastery set in a beautiful, green location.
Stroll along the Waterfront: Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Poros Town's harbour, lined with yachts, cafés, and tavernas.
Cross over to Galatas: Take a short water taxi to the mainland town of Galatas and visit the famous Lemon Forest (best in spring).
The Athenian Riviera: A Coastal Jaunt
Who says you need a ferry for an island-style escape? Stretching south from the city suburbs, the Athenian Riviera is a glamorous coastline of palm-fringed promenades, exclusive beach clubs, secluded coves, and world-class marinas. This is where Athenians themselves come to play, to swim in the clear Saronic waters, and to dine at seaside restaurants as the sun goes down. From the cosmopolitan buzz of Glyfada to the therapeutic, mineral-rich waters of Lake Vouliagmeni, the Riviera offers a taste of the good life with the convenience of a city break. It's proof that in Athens, the beach is never more than a short tram ride away.
Five Must-Sees and Dos on the Athenian Riviera
Swim at Astir Beach: One of Athens' most exclusive and beautiful beaches, located in the upscale suburb of Vouliagmeni.
Relax at Lake Vouliagmeni: A stunning natural thermal spa where you can swim in mineral-rich waters year-round.
Enjoy a Coffee in Glyfada: A vibrant, cosmopolitan suburb with a bustling shopping scene and numerous trendy cafés.
Dine at a Seaside Taverna in Varkiza: Feast on fresh fish and seafood with your toes almost in the sand.
Discover the Hidden Coves of Kavouri: Explore the smaller, less-crowded beaches and rocky inlets perfect for a quiet swim.
General Travel Tips for Athens & Greece
A little preparation goes a long way in making your Grecian odyssey smooth and spectacular. Keep these tips in mind.
Getting Around
Athens Public Transport: The city's metro, bus, and tram network is excellent. Purchase an 'Ath.ena Ticket', a rechargeable paper ticket or card for easy travel. A 90-minute ticket works across all modes, while multi-day tourist tickets are also available.
Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Use reputable ride-sharing apps like FREE NOW or Uber (which operates with licensed taxis in Athens) to avoid being overcharged. Always ensure the meter is running in a traditional yellow cab.
Island Ferries: When booking ferries from Piraeus, double-check your departure gate. The port is huge, and gates can be a long walk from each other. Arrive at least an hour before departure.
Courtesy & Customs
Dress with Respect: When visiting monasteries like those in Meteora or the Monastery of Agios Nektarios in Aegina, dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees. Many monasteries provide wraps or skirts at the entrance, but it's respectful to come prepared.
The Art of Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In tavernas, rounding up the bill or leaving a 5-10% tip for good service is customary. For coffee or drinks, simply rounding up to the nearest euro is fine.
Greek Mealtimes: Lunch is typically eaten late, from 2 pm onwards, while dinner rarely starts before 9 pm. If you see a taverna full of locals at 11 pm, you know it's a good one.
Drink the Water: The tap water in Athens is perfectly safe to drink. Bring a reusable bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste. On some smaller islands, bottled water may be recommended – just ask your host.
