Best Day Trips from Athens: Discover the Most Exciting Day Trips in Greece
If you’re planning a stay in the city of Athens and want to explore beyond the capital, taking a day trip from Athens is the perfect way to enrich your experience. Whether you’re interested in ancient Greek ruins, scenic coastlines, or charming towns, mainland Greece offers an abundance of exciting day trips. In this guide, we’ll help you discover the best day trips that you can take from Athens, from the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion to the island charm of Aegina and the mythical splendor of Delphi.
Day Trip from Athens to Delphi: A Journey into Ancient Greece
One of the most popular day trips from Athens, Delphi is located just under three hours from Athens and is known for its majestic archaeological site nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus. In ancient Greece, Delphi was considered the center of the world and was home to the Oracle of Apollo.
At Delphi, you’ll explore the Temple of Apollo, the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia, and the Delphi Archaeological Museum. With its UNESCO status and views of the surrounding mountains, this day trip from Athens is both visually stunning and culturally enriching.
- ✅ Must-sees: Temple of Apollo, omphalos, treasuries
- 🛣️ Option for a day trip: Rent a car and drive or take a guided tour from Athens
- 📍 Distance from Athens: approx. 180 km
Tip: You can also take a bus from Athens terminal station or arrange a guided tour that includes hotel pickup.
Day Trip from Athens to Epidaurus: The Sound of the Ancient World
Located in the Peloponnese, Epidaurus is famous for its remarkably preserved Ancient Greek theatre, known for its perfect acoustics. This UNESCO World Heritage site also includes the Sanctuary of Asklepios, an ancient healing center.
- 🎭 Highlights: Theatre of Epidaurus, Asklepion, ancient ruins
- 🚗 Best access: Drive from Athens or join a day tour from Athens
- 📍 Popular day trip from Athens, especially for fans of archaeological history
This day trip from Athens is perfect for those intrigued by ancient Greek culture and archaeological sites.
Day Trip from Athens to Mycenae and Nafplio: A Tale of Kings and Fortresses
Combine a visit to Mycenae—the legendary city of Agamemnon—with Nafplio, the first capital of modern Greece and a romantic coastal town. Mycenae features ruins like the Lion Gate and royal tombs, while Nafplio offers stunning sea views and historical fortresses like Palamidi.
- 🏛️ Mycenae: Tholos tombs, Cyclopean walls
- 🌊 Nafplio: Neoclassical architecture, seaside promenade
- 🧭 Ideal day trip: Rent a car or opt for a guided tour
- ✅ Perfect day trip for lovers of Greek history and scenic towns
A romantic day trip from Athens, perfect for couples or those looking to slow down.
Cape Sounion: Sunset at the Temple of Poseidon
Cape Sounion is a must-see day trip from Athens, known for its Temple of Poseidon, dramatically perched above the Aegean Sea. It’s a favorite for evening trips to catch the sunset, making it one of the most popular day tours from Athens.
- 🏛️ Site: Temple of Poseidon, built in the 5th century BC
- 🚗 Access: Easy to rent a car or take a guided tour
- 📍 Located along the Athens Riviera, about 70 km from downtown
This day trip to Cape Sounion is one of the best for those wanting natural beauty, ancient ruins, and mythological significance.
Aegina: A Greek Island Day Cruise from Athens
For a day cruise from Athens, Aegina in the Saronic Gulf is a top choice. Just a short ferry ride from Piraeus, this Greek island is famous for its Temple of Aphaia, seaside tavernas, and pistachio groves.
- 🏝️ What to do: Visit archaeological sites, swim, enjoy seafood
- 🚢 Travel: Take a ferry from Athens (about 1 hour each way)
- 💡 Bonus: Combine with nearby islands like Hydra or Poros for a multi-island tour
It’s one of the many day tours you can take for a relaxing day in Athens, turned island escape.
Other Top Day Trips You Can Take from Athens
Corinth
See the Corinth Canal, visit ancient ruins, and explore the monastery of Osios Patapios nearby.
Meteora
Though longer, a trip from Athens to Meteora offers majestic monasteries built atop stone pillars. A long but amazing day by train or car.
Around Athens
Closer destinations include Marathon and Vravrona—ideal for quick day trips you can take near Athens with public transportation.
How to Plan the Perfect Day Trip from Athens
- 🚗 Athens by car: Flexible and ideal if you want to stop along the way.
- 🚌 Public transportation: Use trains, buses, or ferries—each station in Athens is well-connected.
- 🗓️ Best time to visit: Spring and autumn offer great weather without summer crowds.
- 🧭 Tools: Google Maps, local tour providers, travel apps
For short excursions, staying in Athens and planning day by day works well. Make sure to get back to Athens before nightfall if you’re self-driving.
What to Pack for a Day Trip from Athens
- 🎒 Essentials: Sunscreen, water bottle, phone charger, map
- 👟 Clothing: Comfortable walking shoes, layers for the breeze at higher altitudes
- 🥪 Snacks: Energy bars, fruit, and a bottle of water
Final Thoughts on the Best Day Trips from Athens
Taking a day trip from Athens is one of the smartest ways to experience mainland Greece. From ancient cities like Delphi and Mycenae, to coastal treasures like Cape Sounion and Aegina, these journeys allow you to see in Athens and far beyond. Whether you’re going by ferry, guided tour, or choosing to rent a car, there’s no shortage of ideal day trips. So pack your bag, plan your route, and get ready for one of the best day trips from Athens—your next unforgettable adventure awaits!
Q: What are some popular day tours from Athens?
A: Some popular day tours from Athens include trips to Delphi, Sounion, and the nearby islands such as Hydra and Aegina. These tours offer a mix of history, culture, and beautiful scenery, making them perfect for an easy day away from Athens.
Q: How far is Delphi from Athens for a day trip?
A: Delphi is approximately 180 km from Athens. It is a popular destination for an Athens day trip, known for its ancient ruins and stunning mountain views.
Q: What is the best way to get to Sounion from Athens?
A: The best way to get to Sounion from Athens is by car, which allows for a scenic drive along the coast. Alternatively, you can take a bus or join a day tour from Athens that includes transportation.
Q: Are there any historical sites to visit on an Athens day trip?
A: Yes, many day trips from Athens focus on historical sites. Delphi, the first capital of Greece, and the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion are excellent options for those interested in Athens for history.
Q: Can I take a train from Athens to nearby destinations?
A: Yes, there are train services available from Athens to several nearby destinations, including Delphi. This can be a convenient option for travelers looking to explore outside of Athens.
Q: What are some things to do in Athens before or after a day trip?
A: Before or after your day trip, you can explore downtown Athens, visit the Acropolis, enjoy local cuisine, or relax in one of the city’s many parks. There are plenty of things to do in Athens to enhance your travel experience.
Q: Is it easy to drive in Athens for a day trip?
A: Driving in Athens can be challenging due to traffic and narrow streets, but it is manageable for those familiar with city driving. Having a car in Athens can provide flexibility for day trips to destinations like Sounion or Delphi.
Q: What should I pack for a day trip from Athens?
A: For a day trip from Athens, pack comfortable walking shoes, a water bottle, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the beautiful sights. If you’re visiting historical sites, consider bringing a guidebook or downloading an app for more information.
Q: How long does an easy day trip from Athens typically take?
A: An easy day trip from Athens typically takes around 8 to 10 hours, allowing time for travel, exploration, and meals. This duration is perfect for visiting places like Delphi or Sounion without feeling rushed.