day trip to athens

• Work with us
• Privacy Policy
• Meet the Team

ONE DAY IN ATHENS – A COMPLETE ITINERARY

Athens is one of the oldest and most fascinating cities in the world. The birthplace of Democracy, Medicine, Theatre and Philosophy offers a lot to see and do . Ideally you would have at least 3 days in Athens to really do it justice but for people who are transiting or visiting on a cruise ship a single day may be all there is. Here’s how to make the most of that one day in Athens!

When to visit Athens

The best times to visit Greece are April-May and September-October which is when the weather is lovely and the crowds are reasonable. High season is late June to early September.

Most visitors to Greece are going to visit Athens even if they are just transiting through for a few hours. Whilst it will be quite hot and crowded in July in August it is actually fairly quiet as the Athenians themselves head to the islands on holidays, along with many other Europeans.

Athens is operational year-round and even in winter it is quite a nice city to visit with beautiful decorations, processions, and festivals at Christmas time.

Athens Transfers

If you need to get from the Airport to the Ancient Centre and/or to Pireaus Port or vice-versa then it pays to book a private driver. There is nothing like coming off a long flight and seeing your name on a sign held by a friendly face and it is only a few dollars more expensive than a taxi.

Use these links below to book and use the code ‘GTS’ for 5% off tours or 10% off transfers!

One Day in Athens itinerary

This one-day itinerary for Athens will start bright and early at the Acropolis and take in many of the main attractions and monuments of Athens in an easy, walkable route.

All up you will cover around 5 kilometres, almost all of it flat, and you can pace yourself at your leisure. You will see some truly magnificent ancient sites as well as some modern wonders.

If you are visiting from a cruise ship it is a good idea to make your way into the city centre well before your fellow passengers or join a private tour to take you. Most tour buses start to arrive at The Acropolis around 10.00am.

The Acropolis & Acropolis Museum

The Acropolis translates to “highest point of the town,” was the location of the thriving ancient citadel originally occupied by the Mycenaen kings.

As time passed, the Acropolis became home to several temples, shrines, and sanctuaries. The most famous of the temples is the temple to Athena, the Parthenon. There is also a theater and sanctuary for Dionysus on what is now referred to as the Southern Slope.

Hopefully, you will have arrived early before the sun and the crowds and can explore this incredible site at your leisure. Many people would say you need 2 hours to explore the Acropolis although some, of course, will say much longer!

Visit the Acropolis Museum, right outside the south gate, directly afterward to get a deep understanding of how life was. It is full of artifacts from the site as well as being home to an ancient neighborhood underneath the modern structure. It truly is one of the great museums in the world!

Read our Complete Guide to visiting the Acropolis!

Temple of Olympian Zeus

From the Acropolis Museum head east along Dionysiou Areopagitou to busy Leof. Andrea Siggrou Street where you will see the Temple of Olympian Zeus directly in front of you. You might like to take your time on this short journey as this part of the Plaka neighborhood is quite lovely and a little wander through the local streets will reap rewards.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus was completed in 132 AD after being partially built and in limbo for over 600 years after its original conception.

It was originally built with 104 Corinthian-style columns of which today there are only 15 left. You will notice the temple from many high vantage points across the city and it is only a short walk from the center of town.

HOURS : daily 8 am-7:30 pm

COST : 2 euro

Syntagma Square, Parliament and the Evzones

If you make your way north along the main road here you will reach Syntagma Square. A much nicer route is past Hadrians’ Arch and the Statue of Lord Byron and through the lovely National Gardens.

Syntagma is a famous meeting place for the city and is popular for concerts, protest marches, and other public gatherings.

Things to see at Syntagma Square

At the Eastern end, you will see the Hellenic Parliament Building which does conduct tours from time to time but they must be organised in advance. See their official website for more information.

Outside Parliament is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and it is guarded by The Evzones ( pronounced Ev-zon-ez), an elite unit of the Hellenic Army who, among other things, are known for their very distinctive uniform and elaborate march.

It is a great honour to be selected as an Evzones and the soldiers are selected according to their height, excellent physical condition, and psychological state as well as character and morality.

Each hour on the hour you can witness the Changing of the Guards which is an elaborate and very serious ritual that involves uniform inspections and the goose-step march the Evzones are famous for ( as well as their distinctive outfits).

If you are lucky enough to be visiting on a Sunday you can also see them raising the flag at The Acropolis at 10 am.

HOURS : The Evzones change every hour on the hour

COST : Free

Ermou pedestrian street

Ermou Street is the central pedestrian-only street that runs for 1.5 kilometers from Syntagma Square, west.

It is where all the big brand high-street stores are found such as Zara, H&M, and Sephora as well as numerous specialty shops, particularly fashion boutiques.

The street was one of the first modern roads in Athens and became a pedestrian zone in 1997.

Things to see on Ermou Street

There are numerous things to stop and see along this street but one of the most interesting is the Byzantine Church of Panagia Kapnikarea which is one of the oldest churches in Athens, having been built around 1050. It is right in the middle of Ermou street and impossible to miss.

HOURS: usually Mon- Fri. 10:00 – 21:00, Saturdays 10:00 – 19:00

COST : free

Cathedral of Athens

Parallel to Ermou Street walking towards The Acropolis is popular Mitropolis street where you will find The Metropolitan Cathedral of Annunciation (aka Metropolis) is the main cathedral of Athens and all of Greece. It is also the seat of the Archbishop of the Greek Orthodox Church of Athens.

Construction of the Cathedral began in 1842 but it was not completed for 20 years. Marble from 72 demolished churches in Greece was used and 3 different architects worked on it during the construction process.

The 3-domes Basilica has been the site of the coronation of Kings, important weddings and state funerals.

The tombs of 2 saints are inside – Gregory V the Patriarch of Constantinople and Saint Philothei. Adjacent to the Cathedral is the much smaller Church of St. Eleftherios, often called Little Mitropoli.

The Cathedral has been quite controversial over the years with many criticizing its facade and design. It underwent full restoration over a 20 year period of economic hardship but was finally complete in 2016.

HOURS: 7 am – 7 pm every day with mass on Sundays at 6:30am

The Ancient Agora, Monastaraki & Plaka

When you reach the end of either Ermou Street or Mitropolous Street you will be at Monastiraki Square , one of the busiest squares in Athens. It is home to a metro station, a famous flea market, Hadrian’s library,  and more, and is surrounded by tavernas, small shops, and market stalls.

Walking left through the square you will walk on to the Ancient Agora in an area called Agoraios Kolonoa or Market Hill. Agora means ‘market’ in Greek and this is where the ancient Athenians plied their trade and spent time with each other philosophizing, worshiping, and teaching. In fact, it is where Socrates taught and died and became the actual birthplace of democracy.

The ancient archaeological site today is an expansive green site and is quite unusual as a train line runs through it.

Things to see in this area

Highlights include the Temple of Hephaestus , one of the best-preserved temples in Greece, and the Stoa of Attalos , the Hellenistic version of a shopping mall and today home to a fascinating museum and thousands of artifacts from the late Classical, Hellenistic, Roman and Ottoman periods.

HOURS :   1 Apr – 31 Oct Mon-Sun, 8:00-20:00 and 1 Nov – 31 Mar Mon-Sun, 8:00-15:00

COST:   10 Euro or 5 with concession  

If you walk towards the Acropolis from the Agora you will enter the charming neighborhood of Plaka ( which means ‘tablet’). This is the most touristic area in Athens but also one of the prettiest. Many people say it reminds them of the islands with the brightly coloured buildings, swathes of bougainvillea and many souvenir shops, tavernas and cafes.

It is worth spending an hour or two wandering around Plaka and you will have possibly already seen some of it when walking from the Acropolis/Museum to Syntagma. Some of the streets are closed to traffic and it’s a very pleasant area to get lost.  

Central Market

Head back through Monastiraki Square and cross Ermou Street heading up Athinas.

After a few blocks, you will come across the Central Municipal Market, also known as Varvakios Market which is bordered by Athina, Evripidou, and Sophocleous Streets.

Much of the market is indoors and there you will find many butchers, fishmongers, and other vendors selling a wide variety of fresh food.

The market has been in operation since 1886 and is the modern market that largely replaced the Ancient Agora nearby.

In the adjacents streets and alleyways, you will find many small businesses selling Greek products ranging from flowers and plants, herbs and spices, delicatessen lines, tea, wine, fruit, vegetables, and more.

There are also many small bars, cafes, and tavernas with excellent, authentic snacks and meals on offer. It’s easy to spend several hours in this area of Athens.

HOURS: 24/7

COST : Free    

Psyri and street art

Head west on Evripdou Street and turn left into either Agiou Dimitriou, Eschilou, or Aristofanous streets all of which will take you into Iroon Place and arguably the heart of Athens most lively and most interesting neighborhood, Psyri.

Things to see and do in Psyri

Psryi is home to a plethora of cafes, tavernas, bars and shops and some of the best food in Greece. At night it becomes very busy and dynamic with live music playing and dancing in the streets is not uncommon.

The street art in the area is quite incredible too and it’s where a whole revolution of graffiti as art began during the economic crisis that gripped Greece around 10 years ago.

You will also find the streets are home to many small artisan shops with craftsmen making handmade leathergoods, fashions and homewares.

Agiou Anargiron is home to many of our favourite tavernas and is car-free. Grab an early dinner or late lunch here either before or after visiting the rooftop bars.

HOURS : 10:00 am to sunrise

If you are in Psyri for lunch or dinner our two favourite tavernas are Nikitas , a tiny little place with no menu that only sell the specials of the day, and Lithos , a large taverna with a huge menu and great service. If you are after coffee or something sweet Nancy’s Sweet Home on Iroon Place has a mind-boggling array of enormous cakes and pastries and around the corner, Little Kook is a themed cafe and one of the most photographed places in Greece!

Rooftop Bars

Athens has a wonderful bar scene and the rooftop bars in particular really showcase the city at its best.

Whilst some may feel the streets still have too many abandoned and graffiti-covered buildings heading to the rooftops above them see the city in a new perspective, particularly if Acropolis views are on hand.

There are some excellent rooftop bars in and near Psyri such as A for Athens , 360 Cocktail Bar,   Couleur Locale , and Pella Inn which you can combine with dinner in Psyri. Many are quite small though so it can pay to book ahead.

Other great rooftop bars across the city include Anglais Athens , MS Roof Garden , Thea Terrace and the famous rooftop at Athens’s most expensive Hotel, the Grande Bretagne.

The Clumsies does not have a rooftop but is considered one of the best bars in the world and is definitely worth a look if you have time.

Spending one night in Athens?

As you can see there is a lot to see and do in Athens and it really is a fabulous city. Many people visit each year and still have not unlocked a fraction of the hidden gems it holds. There is a LOT to see and do !

If you are able to spend a night as well as your day in Athens then it pays to stay somewhere central in one of the more popular areas and, if your budget allows it definitely book somewhere with that iconic Acropolis view !

Our favourite areas to stay are Plaka, Monastiraki, and Psiri.

Further reading:

Where to stay in Athens

Acropolis View Hotels

Athens Airport Hotels ( and the Riviera and East Coast)

The view from the roof garden at The Foundry Hotel in Psyri

Tours of Athens

If you would prefer to do an organised tour of Athens rather than a self-walking tour there are several great options around, and many are far better value than those that cruise ships offer if that’s how you are arriving.

There is an excellent Hop-on Hop-Off bus that takes in all the main sites are well as those further away from the historic centre, including the Athenian Riviera. There are segway tours of the main attractions and a very popular small group tour on electric bikes as well. 

If you would like a guide to show you around then there is a great 3-hour guided walk through Plaka and Monastiraki which includes entry to the Acropolis.

If you love food tours then Athens is the places to do them and the Classic Food tasting tour over 3.5 hours is perfect.

And for a completely bespoke experience we recommend our private drivers who can take you to all the sites that require transport, and more, including pick up and drop off from the airport or ferry terminal. Use the code ‘GTS’ when booking for either 5% off tours or 10% off transfers!

Like this post. Why not Pin it?

You may also like

The most romantic places in greece – towns, villages, hotels and villas, 7 day itinerary greece, the best museums in greece, where to stay in athens – top areas and hotels for 2024, things to do near athens airport, a day trip to aegina from athens, like to know more greece secrets, yassas keep an eye on your inbox for tales, tips and travel inspiration..

Welcome to Greece Travel Secrets! I’m Sandy, a tragic Grecophile married to a Greek, hoping to help you have the best possible trip to Greece. We want you to experience the famous Greek ‘Filotimo’ before you even get there.

FERRY TICKETS

RECENT ARTICLES

17 Spectacular Day Trips from Athens, Greece

If you’re looking for the best day trips from Athens so you can pick a few for your trip, this guide is for you! I cover seventeen places you can go, which ones can easily be combined as day tours from Athens, and which ones are my personal favorites!

In the end, there are more resources to help you plan your trip to Athens.

Pin this post for your trip to Greece!

>> Read Next: Athens Instagram Inspiration: 15 Instagrammable Places in Athens <<

Where to Stay in Athens

If this is your first trip to Athens, figuring out where to stay in the city can be a bit intimidating. Because of the location of the Acropolis, it really matters which neighborhood you choose to stay in, especially if you’re looking for Acropolis views, easy access to the metro, and good value for your money.

For our hotel recommendations, Generally, budget means hostel beds for around $30 a night and singles/doubles for around $50, mid-range is from about $50-100 per night, and luxury will cost over $100 per night.

However, note that availability, time of year, and how much in advance you book will play a role in how much accommodations cost in Athens.

Budget: If you want a hostel dorm bed in the heart of Psyri, check out the Acropolis Hostel. This basic-yet-clean hostel boasts what very few in the world can: Acropolis views from its communal terrace.

You’ll enjoy having access to an elevator (no lugging your bag all the way up to your room), and you can enjoy the lively neighborhood atmosphere and come home when you want since the hostel has no curfew. 

Check out reviews, pictures, prices, and availability here .

Mid-Range: For my most recent trip to Athens, we stayed in a couple of different places, but my favorite was the  Ares Athens Hotel   off of Omonia Square.

I loved its location, close to Omonia station, across the street from a Coffee Island (my personal version of Heaven), and with views of Mount Lycabettus. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and each room has a private terrace. 

Luxury:  If you are a traveler who loves having stunning hotel views, book a stay at  A for Athens,  a boutique hotel in Psyri that has what is considered by many to be the best rooftop bar in the city.

You can also enjoy Acropolis views from the panoramic terrace during breakfast, You can even get amazing Acropolis and Parthenon views from some of the rooms. This hotel is basically Instagram crack. 

Check out prices, reviews, photos, and availability here.

Don’t see a hotel that’s the right pick for you? Check out our complete Athens Neighborhood and Hotel Guide.

Top 5 Athens Day Trips

I cover the entire list below with tour recommendations, etc. But here are my top five picks including many of the most popular day trips from Athens:

• Poros, Hydra, & Aegina 
• Mycenae & Epidaurus 
• Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion

Day Trips from Athens: The Complete List

I’m obsessed with Athens, and I think people come here and leave too quickly. They use it as a base, but don’t dig deep into what makes the city so special.

If you only have one or two days in the city, stay and explore! That being said, if you’ll be spending four days or more in Athens (or even a month like I did on my first trip) then you should take advantage of the amazing Athens day trips that are available!

Tourism in Athens is very developed, so you can combine many of these locations into single-day trips. However, if you want to DIY your day trips from Athens, then many of these would need to be done on their own because public transit will eat up so much of your time. 

Another option is to rent a car and drive to some of these on your own. If you do that, just make sure you know where you’ll be parking in Athens (or return your car at the end of the day). Both driving and parking in Athens are nuts!

I listed this as my favorite day trip from Athens for a few reasons. First, the scenery from the top of the hill, looking over the temple and the mountains took my breath away.

Another reason is that the ancient Greeks thought that Delphi was the center of the world, so if you love ancient Greek history (like me) then there are tons to geek out on. 

Major sites you’ll want to see while you’re in Delphi include the Temple of Apollo, the Athenian Treasury, and the Temple of Athena Proinaia. You also want to set aside time to walk up the hill to the stadium. 

You can technically visit Delphi from Athens via public transportation, but I found it overwhelming.

Even after spending a month in Athens, I thought it would be likely that I would miss the connecting bus, so I went on a guided Delphi Day Trip from Athens .  This tour combined a stop in the mountain village of Arachova on Mount Parnassus. 

What I loved about the guided tour was the ease of not worrying about missing the connecting bus and having a tour guide who could explain everything we were seeing in detail.

Greek tour guides tend to have an insane amount of knowledge because they have to undergo intense training.

What I wished was different about the bus tour was I wish we would have had more time at the site because I ended up missing the museum to spend more time at the stadium.

However, I’m not sure this would have been better with public transportation because the bus times when I was going were pretty inconvenient. 

If you only have one day to take a day trip from Athens, Delphi is a great option. 

»» Book a Delphi tour or check tour reviews. ««

Meteora is not an easy day trip from Athens, but once you’re here you see why the long journey was worth it. To get here, you take a five-hour train ride from Athens each way, leaving you just a few hours to explore the monasteries.

However, if you go on a guided tour like I did, like the Meteora Full-Day Trip from Athens by Train ,  then you’ll get picked up at the train station and taken straight to the monasteries.

There are six monasteries here that you can visit. However, they are very far from the train station, so you’ll be thankful for the bus that picks you up to take you to the ones that are open that day (they have different days when they are closed, but there are always a few open). 

My favorite parts of visiting Meteora besides the monasteries were seeing the Game of Thrones and James Bond scenery and driving through the stunning landscape. 

We also think that if you’re looking for a great winter day trip from Athens, Meteora is an excellent choice because the monasteries look amazing covered in snow. You can see photos of what Meteora in winter is like in  25 Snowy Photos of Meteora in Winter.

»» Book a Meteora tour or check tour reviews. ««

Read:  Delphi or Meteora: Which Historic Greek Site is Right for You?

Cape Sounion

The Temple of Poseidon on Cape Sounion is a beautiful ancient Greek temple set beside the sea. It’s also famous because Lord Byron carved his name into the temple when he visited in the nineteenth century.

Though we don’t encourage you to follow suit, it is so cool to see the physical embodiment of the connection between modern literary history and ancient Greek history. Basically, Lord Byron was a temple fanboy, and we dig it. 

I visited Cape Sounion as a day trip from Athens on a guided Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounion Tour . The nice thing is this tour doesn’t take a full day since it is much closer than some of the other sites on this list.

Another bonus is that the bus stops at a great photography spot before the actual Temple before continuing to the site. 

If you want to visit on your own, you can also take a public bus or go on the  Athens Hop-on-Hop-off Bus & Cape Sounion Sunset Combo Tour . I wasn’t at Cape Sounion at night, but the pictures look spectacular. 

Mycenae 

If you love the Illiad and the Odyssey, or if you just love ancient Greek archaeology, then you should come and visit Mycenae. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Tiryns. According to UNESCO :

The archaeological sites of Mycenae and Tiryns are the imposing ruins of the two greatest cities of the Mycenaean civilization, which dominated the eastern Mediterranean world from the 15th to the 12th century B.C. and played a vital role in the development of classical Greek culture.

These two cities are indissolubly linked to the Homeric epics, the Iliad, and the Odyssey , which have influenced European art and literature for more than three millennia…

The citadel of Mycenae, with its strategic position for the control of the Argolid Plain, is the kingdom of the mythical Agamemnon and the most important and richest palatial center of the Late Bronze Age in Greece.

Its name was given to one of the greatest civilizations of Greek prehistory, the Mycenaean civilization, while the myths related to its history, its rulers, and their family members (such as Klytaimnestra, Ifigeneia, Elektra, Orestes) have inspired poets, writers, and artists over many centuries, from the ancient to the contemporary times.

Significant stages in monumental architecture are still visible in the property, such as the massive defensive walls, the corbelled tholos tombs, and the Lions Gate.

I visited Mycenae on a guided tour like this  Mycenae and Epidaurus: Full-Day Tour from Athens , which also stopped at Nafplio and Corinth (below). However, if you go on your own then you can visit it with Tiryns so you can see both archeology sites.

It’s really up to you which other sites you want to see on your trip. 

»» Book a Mycenae tour or check tour reviews. ««

Ancient Epidaurus is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Greece, which includes a beautiful ancient Greek theater and a small museum. According to UNESCO :

In a small valley in the Peloponnesus, the shrine of Asklepios, the god of medicine, developed out of a much earlier cult of Apollo (Maleatas), during the 6th century BC at the latest, as the official cult of the city-state of Epidaurus.

Its principal monuments, particularly the temple of Asklepios, the Tholos, and the Theatre – considered one of the purest masterpieces of Greek architecture – date from the 4th century.

The vast site, with its temples and hospital buildings devoted to its healing gods, provides valuable insight into the healing cults of Greek and Roman times.

I saw Epidaurus on a   Mycenae and Epidaurus: Full-Day Tour from Athens , which also stopped at Nafplio and Corinth (below). However, you can also visit on your own.

If you go via public transportation you won’t be able to see quite as many sites in a single day. You might be able to do all the sites in one day if you rent a car. A car rental may or may not save you money over the price of the tour. 

»» Book an Epidaurus tour or check tour reviews. ««

Hydra is an island in the Saronic Gulf, which you can visit with a water taxi from Piraeus, the port of Athens.

Once you’re here, you can go to the beautiful Orthodox church, eat lunch at one of the tavernas on the harbor, go to the beach, and see the beautiful white-washed Greek architecture.

Hydra Town is the island’s main city, but it has more of a village feel that you will love.

There are three islands near Athens that you can visit as day trips. I visited all three on a  Full-Day Cruise to Aegina, Poros, and Hydra . I’m listing them in order of how much I liked each island, so if you only want to see one I would pick Hydra.

»» Book a Cruise to Hydra or check cruise reviews. ««

If you only want to visit one island and you love ancient Greek temples, then you need to pick Aegina. Along with the Parthenon and the Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounion, Aegina’s Temple of Aphaia forms a triangle that was important in the religion of the ancient Greeks.

The temple also has way fewer visitors than the other two, so I got to visit practically alone.

Beyond the temple, there’s an important Greek Orthodox Cathedral that you don’t want to miss. If you have more time, get out and explore.

The island is beautiful, with a great harbor to walk around and some off-the-beaten-path beaches for sunbathing and swimming. 

I visited Aegina on a  Full-Day Cruise to Aegina, Poros, and Hydra . If you don’t want to go on a guided tour, you can take the water taxis directly to Aegina and back from Athens.

The main difference is you really can only visit one island on your own, so you do have to pick just one. 

»» Book a Cruise to Aegina or check cruise reviews. ««

Read:  Aegina or Hydra: Which Saronic Island Should You Visit?

One of the smallest islands you can visit from Athens , Poros is actually two separate islands with a single name. While here, climb up to the landmark white clocktower, walk along the harbor, and visit Faros lighthouse. 

Poros is a great slice of island life but still reachable from Athens, and it’s a favorite escape for many locals. I visited Poros  Full-Day Cruise to Aegina, Poros, and Hydra .

If you want to go on your own, use the water taxis. You will need to choose just one island to visit in this case. There are pros and cons to both forms of travel.

I chose the cruise so I could see all three islands, but if you go on your own you can spend more time exploring a single island.

»» Book a Cruise to Poros or check cruise reviews. ««

Aigialeia Wine Tour

If you love wine tourism and you want to get out and explore the Peloponnese, then you should spend a day exploring the region on an  Aigialeia Private Wine Tour .

This tour includes a train ride through Vouraikos Canyon, the monastery of Mega Spileon, walking through a local vineyard, wine tasting, and lunch. 

You can DIY this tour if you want to rent a car and explore the region on your own. Just be careful and avoid the tasting part of the wine tasting so you can safely drive back to Athens at the end of the day.

The legal limit for alcohol when you’re driving is much less than most travelers will be used to. Consuming even one drink will put you over the legal limit. 

»» Book an Aigialeia Wine Tour or check tour reviews. ««

Nafplio is a beautiful seaside town in Argolis, with a hillside citadel and a castle in the middle of the water. If you want to spend time on the coast, this is a great city to come to for the day.

You can visit as a day trip from Athens on your own by bus. I went on a guided tour that also visited Mycenae and Epidaurus , with a short stop in Corinth.

I loved my time in Nafplio, but I definitely would like to go back for longer. If you want to visit on a guided tour but want more time in the city, I would go on this  Full Day Trip to Nafplio and Ancient Epidaurus  which spends more time in the city (plus you still get to see Epidaurus)!

»» Book a Nafplio tour or check tour reviews. ««

The city of Corinth is famous for its mention in the Bible (think first Corinthians, second Corinthians, etc). Its ethereal-looking Canal is another reason you may have heard of the city before. 

Many visitors who come to Corinth are interested in seeing the town where St. Paul lived and preached for two years. Other important sites here include the ancient Temple of Apollo.

I only got to spend a few minutes in the city, seeing the canal, as part of my Mycenae and Epidaurus  tour. However, if you’re interested in exploring Corinth more deeply, I suggest going on the  Ancient Corinth Half-Day Tour from Athens  instead. 

»» Book a Corinth tour or check tour reviews. ««

Mount Olympus

Visiting Mount Olympus in a single day from Athens would be very ambitious. There are no organized tours that I can find, and the driving time from Athens to Olympus is five and a half hours.

I would never visit this as a day trip (which is why I haven’t visited Mount Olympus yet). 

So why am I listing it? Because Athens is the kind of place people visit after dreaming about it for years. I know people who have rented cars and visited Olympus as a day trip.

They did this because they were short on time, and it was the thing they wanted to see the most during their trip.

So, if you want to see Mount Olympus and you only have a single day, you can. Just rent a car and prepare to drive eleven to twelve hours that day. But if this is the thing you’ve been dreaming about the most, then do it!

It’s a much easier day trip from Thessaloniki, so if you’re trying to decide between Athens or Thessaloniki and this site is important to you, then I would go to Thessaloniki. 

Athenian Riviera

While a trip out to the Athenian Riviera is still technically “within Athens,” it’s a very different side of the city. Since you’ll also need to pack a beach bag, it’s not easy to combine a day here with other city activities.

You can come out to the beach to explore the different harbors and go for a swim, or you can come out at night and explore the vibrant club scene.

I wouldn’t bother with any of the guided tours out there, but you might want to book a ticket on the  Athens, Piraeus & Riviera & Beaches Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour  so you can easily get from place to place quickly. 

»» Book an Athenian Riviera Hop-On Hop-Off Bus tour or check tour reviews. ««

If you want to explore the Greek islands, but you want to avoid cruise ships and water taxis, why not go sailing! You can sail from Athens to Agistri.

This Sailing Cruise to Aegina, Moni & Agistri  includes swimming and relaxing on the beaches of Agistri before visiting the islands of Aegina and Moni. I can’t think of a better way to escape the bustle of Athens on a hot day than on a sailboat and swimming in the Greek isles!

»» Book a sailing tour to Agistri or check tour reviews. ««

The sailing cruise mentioned above,  Sailing Cruise to Aegina, Moni & Agistri,  includes a stop in Moni as its second port of call.

In Moni, you eat a traditional Greek lunch before swimming in the clear blue waters off the island. It’s a small slice of paradise in the middle of your sailing cruise. 

Nemea Winery

Another option for a wine tour is to visit the wineries in Nemea near Corinth. As I mentioned earlier, you can visit a few wineries in a rental car, but if you want to go on a wine tasting you need to visit on a guided tour.

The legal drinking limit in Greece is much lower than in the UK or the USA. One drink and you’ll be over.

This  Nemea Winery Private Tour  includes pick-up at your hotel and takes you to Nemea, where you’ll go on wine tastings, explore the vineyards, and learn about the Greek winemaking tradition. 

»» Book a Nemea Winery tour or check tour reviews. ««

Blue Hole Dive

If you’re more interested in seeing what’s under the water than what’s above ground, you can go Scuba Diving at the Blue Hole at Vouliagmeni Lake.

The Blue Hole looks like a man-made well near the lake. Here you can scuba dive the beautiful reefs and rock walls, with good visibility and warm water. Includes hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Should You DIY Your Athens Day Trip or Go on a Guided Tour?

I have gone on more guided bus tours from Athens than any other city I’ve ever visited. To put it into perspective, a few years ago I spent a month in Cyprus and Athens back-to-back. In Cyprus, I went on eight different day trips that I did on my own using the intercity buses and renting a car.

In Athens, this just wasn’t as easy. Everything I wanted to see was complicated on my own. Instead, I went on seven different day trips from Athens but I went only on guided bus tours. 

This is due to a few unique factors about traveling in Athens:

• Some of the best day trips are far from Athens
• Public Transportation can eat up an enormous amount of time
• There are so many places to see that it’s easier to combine sites on a guided tour than on public transportation
• Car rentals in Greece can sometimes be as expensive as the guided tour

Of course, there are drawbacks to guided tours as well, like not having as much time as you want on a site. In this case, it might be worth it to travel and spend a night near where you want to go instead of trying to get there and back in a day.

For example, I would only suggest a guided tour for visiting Meteora as a day trip from Athens. If you want to DIY a trip to Meteora, you should spend a night in Kalabaka. 

If you are only interested in day trips that you can visit without a tour, I would pick visiting one of the islands, going to the Athenian Riviera, or visiting the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion. 

Athens Day Tour Recommendations 

Here are all the Athens day tour recommendations from this post in an easy-to-reference list. 

• Delphi Day Trip from Athens
• Meteora Full-Day Trip from Athens by Train
• Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounion Tour
• Athens Hop-on-Hop-off Bus & Cape Sounion Sunset Combo Tour
• Mycenae and Epidaurus: Full-Day Tour from Athens
• Full-Day Cruise to Aegina, Poros, and Hydra
• Aigialeia Private Wine Tour
• Full Day Trip to Nafplio and Ancient Epidaurus
• Ancient Corinth Half Day Tour from Athens
• Athens, Piraeus & Riviera & Beaches Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
• Sailing Cruise to Aegina, Moni & Agistri  
• Nemea Winery Private Tour
• Scuba Diving at the Blue Hole

Greece Travel Resources

Headed to Greece? We have some great travel resources to help you with your trip. First read our guide to  planning a trip to Greece , which covers visas, budgets, vaccines, and much more. We also have a  Balkan currency guide  that explains how money works in Greece and local tipping customs.

If you are still trying to figure out your itinerary, check out our guides on  where to go in Greece  and when is the  best time to visit. 

If you’ll be spending time in Athens, check out our Athens Instagram Guide and our complete Athens hotel guide.

We publish new content about the Balkans almost every day! For more information about traveling to Greece and the Balkans, bookmark our  Greece  and  Balkan  travel pages so you can find out what’s new before your trip.

Key Things to Pack on Your Trip to Greece

If you’re planning a trip to Greece, you’ll want to pack all the normal essentials, but here are a few things we strongly recommend bringing that may not have crossed your mind. For more packing tips, check out our complete  Greece packing list.

–  A physical guidebook, on paper or Kindle . We love  Lonely Planet Greece  for this region and strongly recommend it to supplement blogs. Blogs are great, but a combination of a blog and a guidebook is key to having the best access to information easily at your fingertips.

–  A water bottle with a filter . While often, the tap water in Greece is drinkable, there are places where it isn’t, including some popular tourist destinations like Santorini.

We generally recommend using a water bottle with a purifying filter to reduce your plastic consumption and ensure you won’t drink any funny-tasting water on your stomach that could make your trip unpleasant!

We recommend  the GRAYL water bottle  – it filters water perfectly in an instant so that you can even drink from lakes, bad taps, etc.

–  Motion sickness pills . Very necessary if you’re visiting some common day trips, like Meteora or Delphi, or if you’ll be taking a ferry! Many Greek roads are winding, especially around the coast, plus the ferries in the Mediterranean can be quite choppy. If you have a weak stomach as we do, save yourself and bring some  non-drowsy motion sickness pills .

–  Travel safety items . We think Greece is very safe to travel to, but at the same time, it never hurts to be prepared! Pickpocketing can be quite prevalent in Athens, so be cautious. Some people like to carry money belts, but neither Stephanie nor I use these. Instead, we both carry the same  PacSafe anti-theft backpack .

It has locking zippers, slash-proof construction with metal mesh hidden in the fabric, and tons of other smart security features — all while being cute and stylish enough to be our everyday bag. We recommend it highly for both male and female travelers, as it’s neutral enough to be unisex. We also strongly recommend travel insurance! Our recommendation is at the bottom of the post.

Finally, Make Sure You Come to Greece with Travel Insurance

I’m sure you’re aware that  travel insurance  is essential for traveling in Greece, the Balkans, or anywhere in the world! Allison and I have both been paying customers of  World Nomads  for the last three years. We love the peace of mind it gives us in case of emergencies, accidents, illnesses, theft, or trip cancellation or disruption. 

While Athens is perfectly safe to travel around, there’s always a risk inherent in everyday travel like theft or injury, so it’s better to play it safe. The saying goes “if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel” is true!

Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here.

Pin This Athens Day Trip Guide for Your Trip to Greece

Stephanie has been living in and traveling around the Balkans for the past three years. She’s written for National Geographic Online , appeared on CNN Arabic and in the New York Times , and ridden more Balkan buses than is good for a person.

Related posts

Submit a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

New on Sofia Adventures:

• How to Spend a Magical One Day in Istanbul: Mini Itinerary
• 30 Insanely Delicious Greek Street Foods You Need to Try
• 13 Things That EXIT Music Festival Visitors Should Know

9 of the best day trips from Athens

Feb 10, 2024 • 7 min read

From Nafplio to Hydra, here are the best day trips from Athens © margouillat photo/ Shutterstock

A world-class city, Athens  is crammed with attractions and entertainment that can fill weeks of any visitor's time.

But a number of other outstanding destinations are located within easy reach of the Greek capital – whether you travel by public transportation , by boat or with your own wheels. From ancient ruins to island beaches, these day trips from Athens are well worth the journey.

1. Visit the picturesque former capital, Nafplio

Travel time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Nafplio , the first capital of modern Greece, is one of the prettiest towns in the country, with splendid Venetian and neoclassical architecture and fortresses like the hilltop Palamidi (a famous 999-step climb) or Bourtzi (a small fortified islet in the harbor). Plenty of elegant boutique hotels, tasteful shops and small restaurants hidden in narrow alleys make Nafplio a hugely popular destination for a day hop or a longer stay.

Further south is the posh resort of Porto Heli, where Greek and international jet-setters own luxurious villas and mansions. The region also has some agreeable sandy beaches and numerous local wineries, many open to the public.

How to get to Nafplio from Athens: By car, the journey is around one hour and 45 minutes. The intercity bus from Athens Kifissos station to Nafplio takes two hours and 10 minutes.

2. Aegina is the perfect Greek island getaway

Travel time: 40 minutes / 1 hour 15 minutes

A trip to Aegina is the quickest way to find yourself on an island if you're staying in Athens. The Saronic Gulf island boasts a perfect combination of important ancient ruins, attractive sandy beaches, charming neoclassical architecture and local delicacies like the internationally renowned local pistachio variety.

Outside the picturesque Aegina Town, the Temple of Aphaia , which is among the country's top ancient sites, and the villages of Agia Marina and Perdika are also worth a visit. The huge Orthodox church of Agios Nektarios is a popular pilgrimage destination among both Greek and foreign visitors. Avoid the summer weekends if you can, as the island gets packed with Athenians escaping the city heat.

How to get to Aegina from Athens:  Take the ferry (one hour and 15 minutes) or the hydrofoil (40 minutes) from the harbor of  Piraeus . Departures are frequent, and there's no need to book in advance.

3. Soak up the mythology at Delphi

Travel time: 3 hours

It might be on the long side for a day trip, but spending time in beautiful Delphi  is worth the journey. Myths, history and spectacular mountains combine here – in Greek mythology, the two eagles released by Zeus met there, determining the Navel (or center) of the World. The Sanctuary of Apollo , built in the 7th century BCE, was a revered ancient oracle and home to Pythia, the priestess who mumbled her notoriously ambiguous answers on important or everyday matters to visitors from every walk of life.

A stadium high on the hill, an ancient theater and Tholos (a circular temple, probably the most photographed landmark of the site), together with a small but significant museum , keep attracting modern-day crowds. The idyllic clifftop village on the slopes of Mt Parnassos, overlooking the endless olive groves that surround the sanctuary, is buzzing with taverns and souvenir shops catering to day trippers.

How to get to Delphi from Athens:  Take the KTEL intercity bus  from Athens Liosion station to Delphi. Travel time is around three hours.

4. Walk in the footsteps of ancients in Corinthia

Travel time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Within the modern village of Corinthia loom the extensive yet compact ruins of this ancient (mostly Roman) city. Home to legendary Jason of the Argonauts, stealer of the Golden Fleece, the streets of Ancient Corinth were once trodden by the likes of Pausanias, Roman travelers, and St Paul, who taught the gospel of Christ here.

Follow in their footsteps by visiting the Temple of Apollo, the Peribolos of Apollo, the ancient theater and other highlights. The excellent on-site museum puts everything into context.

How to get to Ancient Corinth from Athens: Intercity buses depart hourly from Athens Kifissos station, arriving at the Korinthos bus station in Corinth City, taking about one hour. From here, buses go to Ancient Corinth (20 minutes).

5. Hit the hiking trails of Mt Parnitha National Park

Travel time: 1 hour

Mt Parnitha, about 25km (15.5 miles) north of Athens, comprises a number of smaller peaks, the highest of which is Karavola (1413m/4636ft), tall enough to get snow in winter. There are many caves and much wildlife, including red deer, and the park is crisscrossed by hiking trails, with two large, full-featured hiking lodges. The area is popular for mountain biking as well.

The easiest way to explore is on the path (about a 45-minute walk) through Tatoi, the 40-sq-km (15-sq-mile) grounds of the former summer palace (closed); follow Tatoi Rd out of Varibobi and look for a small trail sign on the right.

How to get to Mt Parnitha National Park from Athens: Take the Metro's Green Line (Line 1) north to Nea Ionia, then take bus 724 to Thrakomakedónes. You can also continue on bus 724 to the Parnitha Funitel, which takes visitors to the top of the mountain.

6. Imagine the sound of Homer at the World Heritage-listed Mycenae

Travel time: 1 hour 45 minutes

On a hilltop backed by powerful mountains stand the somber and mighty ruins of Ancient Mycenae, home of the legendary Agamemnon. For four centuries in the 2nd millennium BCE, this kingdom was the most powerful in Greece, holding sway over the Argolid and influencing other Mycenaean cities.

World Heritage–listed Mycenae is synonymous with the names Homer and Schliemann. In the 9th century BCE, Homer told in his epic poems, The Iliad and The Odyssey , of "well-built Mycenae, rich in gold." These poems were, until the 19th century, regarded as no more than gripping and beautiful legends. But in the 1870s, the amateur archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann (1822–90), despite derision from professionals, struck gold, first at Troy and then at Mycenae.

Before exploring the archaeological site, head into the Ancient Mycenae Museum for context.

How to get to Ancient Mycenae from Athens: Daily KTEL intercity buses  depart from Athens to Fichti, the nearest town to Ancient Mycenae, on the Nafplio route.

7. Wander the car-free island of Hydra

Travel time: Almost 2 hours

Gorgeous Hydra is a rocky island with a rich history and spectacular, well-preserved stone mansions that once belonged to great naval families and captains of the Greek Revolution. The town is built on the hillside around a stunning harbor; it has a tranquil allure like no other Greek island, as it's completely car-free. Numerous small museums, art galleries and boutique hotels, together with the ever-present yachts docked in the harbor, contribute to its classy aura and more than make up for the lack of beaches.

How to get to Hydra from Athens:  Hydrofoils from the harbor of Piraeus take from one hour and 40 minutes to two hours. Buy tickets online  in advance.

8. Escape to the seaside restaurants of Halkida

Travel time: 30 minutes

Built on the channel that separates the island of Evia from the mainland, and famous for the six-hourly change in the direction of the water's flow, Halkida can't claim the title of tourist magnet by any means. Nevertheless, it's a pleasant seaside town worth visiting to enjoy a relaxing break from a hectic city-sightseeing itinerary and for a taste of Greek small-town life. There are also plenty of good, clean beaches nearby, as well as countless seaside restaurants where you'll enjoy extremely fresh seafood, with far more variety than you'll see in Athens.

How to get to Halkida from Athens:  Halkida is an hour's drive from Athens via the main motorway to Thessaloniki. It's also accessible by intercity bus from Athens terminal station or by train from Athens' central station.

9. Watch the sunset at Cape Sounion

Travel time: 2 hours (Cape Sounion), 45 minutes (Marathon)

You can easily spend a whole day at either of these close-by destinations, but if your schedule is tight, they both make perfect half-day trips. Cape Sounion, at the southernmost tip of Attica, is where the splendid Temple of Poseidon is located – this is one of the best spots around Athens to savor a gorgeous sunset. It can be combined with lunch or dinner at one of the many fish taverns in the nearby working-class town of Lavrio.

Northeast of Athens, Marathon is the site of one of the greatest battles in history and the place where the modern Athens Marathon commences, following the steps of Pheidippides, the legendary ancient courier who first ran the glorious route. The archaeological museum , the tomb of Athenians fallen in the battle, and the lake with its dam are the main attractions of the area.

How to get to Cape Sounion or Marathon from Athens: Cape Sounion is a two-hour bus ride from Athens, and Marathon is a 45-minute drive. Consider taking a taxi if you'd prefer not to drive yourself.

This article was first published July 2019 and updated February 2024

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

Mar 6, 2024 • 8 min read

These local tips can help you prepare for the perfect trip to Greece.

Mar 4, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 19, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 15, 2024 • 4 min read

Feb 2, 2024 • 7 min read

Nov 11, 2023 • 8 min read

Oct 25, 2023 • 7 min read

Sep 25, 2023 • 4 min read

Sep 12, 2023 • 6 min read

Sep 7, 2023 • 4 min read

We’re in Myanmar right now and it’s SO epic… click here to follow along on Instagram.

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Europe » Greece » 10 Unforgettable Day Trips to Take From Athens [2024 Edition]

10 Unforgettable Day Trips to Take From Athens [2024 Edition]

Athens is a dream come true for all you history, architecture and archaeology lovers. Dive headfirst into some of the most incredible legends and myths of all time! Forget those dusty old textbooks, this is a full-throttle real-world history  experience.  The iconic Acropolis and Parthenon are just some of the mesmerising UNESCO World Heritage sites dotted around the city to feast your eyes on. Athens isn’t  just  the capital city of Greece; it’s the beating heart of its rich and fascinating culture too.

Athens doesn’t just offer sights of magnificent ancient ruins alongside a bustling modern metropolis. Look beyond the city to discover the spectacular countryside, crumbling temples and azure waters lapping on the white sand beaches. Sure, there are plenty of things to do and see while in Athens. But It’s also an ideal base to plan some epic adventures to nearby sites and islands.

Think Athens is  just  a city break? Well, it’s so much more.

What’s not to love?! With  so  many options to choose from, we’ve got your back when it comes to picking the right day trips from Athens. So bring out your travel planner, and let’s see our top 10 unforgettable day trips from Athens!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Getting Around Athens, and Beyond

Half-day trips from athens, full-day trips from athens, final thoughts.

Before we jump into day trips from Athens, let’s take a look at all the ways to get around and explore! 

Public transport in and around Athens is reliable, extensive and affordable. 

• All methods of transport (Metro, Suburban Railway, Buses, Trolleybuses & Trams) are available on one ticket.  
• A single ticket is valid for 90 minutes and costs €1.40. 
• An unlimited day (24hrs) pass is €4.50.
• 3-day tourist tickets including the airport and 5-day tickets are also available. 
• Tickets and passes are sold at booths and machines at metro and tram stops

For some of the further day trips, you might want to also consider car rental . This is especially useful if you are short on time or if the neighbourhood in Athens where you are based is poorly connected. 

Most of the Athens day trips involve taking either local or intercity buses. The two main intercity bus terminals are KTEL Kifissos and KTEL Liosion station. Both of these are in different areas of the city but are connected to the local network via tram and bus station.

If you’re super pumped about taking some of the day trips mentioned here then being close to public transport is going to make timing much easier. When booking your hotel or hostel in Athens make sure to stick to areas within walking distance of bus, tram and metro stations.

Short on time? Keen to see as much as you can on your Greece getaway? Why not jump on a half-day tour and check out the great sights a little closer to the city after you’ve seen all you wanted to see in Athens itself.

1. Ancient Corinth

Corinth is what you would call a proper Ancient Greek adventure! It’s the epitome of everything that makes this incredible country so fascinating. The city was once a prosperous centre of trade with strategic naval ports. Dating back thousands of years after being founded by the mythical king Sisyphus (sounds like a pretty cool guy), the ancient city of Corinth is a must-visit for any traveller backpacking Greece .

The ruins of ancient Corinth are a true marvel to see. Several buildings have survived since the 1st century, which is pretty wild! It includes the Temple of Octavia and the Sanctuary of Asclepius, perfect places for getting your Lara Croft on!  The impressive columns of the 6th century Temple of Apollo still stand, telling tales of powerful gods and lost empires. Soaring mountains looming behind the ancient ruins makes it feel even more magical. 

For the real history buffs, The Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth has displays of the archaeological finds from the area. This museum is a must-visit on a  half-day trip from Athens. Here you can see a collection of ancient artefacts: Roman and Greek sculptures, fine Dionysos mosaic, and the famous black-figure pottery, a major artistic innovation of that time.

How to get there: From Athens’ Kifissos station, take an intercity bus to Corinth City’s Konrinthos station. Then take a bus to Ancient Corinth. Takes: 1.5 hours.

Suggested Trip: Half-Day Trip to Corinth  

2. Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon

Get yourself over to Cape Sounion and end a day of exploring with a banging sunset! What’s even better is that it’s just a short half-day trip from Athens, so you can easily squeeze it into your itinerary when visiting the capital!

Overlooking the Saronic Gulf in Cape Sounion is the majestic Temple of Poseidon. Erected in the 5th century BC, the Temple is dedicated to the Greek god of the sea, Poseidon. Such an appropriate place to build it then, overlooking the dramatic Greek coastline. It is one of the remaining architectural wonders from the Golden Age of Athens.  

From the Temple take in the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Be sure to take out your cameras and crack a few beers because there will be some incredible photo opportunities. Get ready for a gorgeous sunset over the ocean with the silhouette of this ancient wonder as your foreground. The vibes are unmatched!

How to get there: From Athens’ Pedion Areos station, take the KTEL intercity bus to Cape Sounion. Takes: 2 hours.

Suggested Trip: Cape Sounion Sunset Tour or Temple of Poseidon Tour

3. Mt Parnitha National Park

Nature lovers will freaking froth over a half-day trip from Athens to Mt Parnitha National Park. Located just outside the city, it’s a great way to escape the hustle and bustle. The park is a real treat for the outdoorsy types. Or you know, those who want a hiking selfie for ‘the gram’! 

Mt Parnitha is the closest mountain to the Greek capital, which makes it an ideal day trip. With lush green fir tree forests, magnificent caves and clusters of peaks surrounded by natural springs, it’s a breathtaking experience. The National Park is a natural wonder, with more than 40 species of wildlife believed to live there. Mt Parnitha National Park offers numerous spectacular hiking trails for all levels as well as rock climbing and mountain biking.

How to get there: From Athens, take the Metro’s Green line north to Nea Ionia, then take the bus 724 to Thrakomakedónes. The same bus will also take you up to the mountaintop. Takes: 1-hour

Suggested Trip: Hiking Trip Parnitha National Park .

When you’re in Athens, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back thousands of years to the bygone era of the Greek gods and goddesses. With the impressive treasure-trove of history, archaeology and mythology just waiting to be discovered, you’ll be left awe-inspired after your Greek trip. After you’ve seen all the best places to visit in Athens , it’s time to broaden your horizons and head out for some day trips.

4. Ancient Mycenae

Lost to the sands of time for centuries, Mycenae has a real aura of mystery and legend. The one-time centre of Greek civilisation came to an abrupt and fiery end, disappearing without a trace. Only rediscovered and excavated in the 19th century, it’s one for the Indiana Jones wannabes…just keep an eye out for hurtling boulders!

Before you explore this UNESCO site, you should first visit the Ancient Mycenae Museum . The many fascinating ancient artefacts on display give you a real insight into what life was once like here. Then head to the imposing Lion’s Gate, the main gateway to the ancient citadel. Next is The Treasury of Atreus, a remarkable vaulted royal tomb believed to house the remains of the legendary King Agamemnon.

How to get there: From Athens’ Kifissos station, take the KTEL intercity bus to the village of Fichti. Then take a taxi to the site of Mycenae. Takes: 2-hours

Suggested Trip: Mycenae Day Trip with Epidaurus or Mycenae Day Trip .

5. Theater of Epidaurus

Another fun-filled and fascinating Athens day trip is Epidaurus. This town on the Saronic Gulf is packed with well-preserved archaeological sites and striking monuments. The main attraction is the impressive Theater of Epidaurus, which dates back to the 4th century BC. 

The Theater of Epidaurus is a spectacular ancient theatre and one of the best-preserved in Greece. Famed for its great acoustics , it is still in use today. Stop by and catch a show! During the Athens Summer Festival in June, July and August, the Theater holds performances of ancient Greek drama.

Check out other nearby monuments here, such as the remains of the Temple of Asclepius, the Tholos and the Stadium. The Archaeological Museum of Epidaurus displays various ancient artefacts and relics found at the remains of the site too.

How to get there: From Athens’ Kifissos station, take a bus to the village of Epidaurus. Then take another bus to the archaeological site. Takes: 2-hours

Suggested Trip: Day Tour to Epidaurus or Day Trip to Epidaurus and Mycenae

Meteora in Greek means “ a place suspended in air ”, which describes this dramatic site perfectly. Meteora with its clusters of gigantic sandstone rock pillars has a mesmerising atmosphere. Even more surreal are the Byzantine monasteries somehow built on top of these imposing pillars. Thirteen of these ancient monasteries still sit atop the summits. You can explore six of them and take in the enchanting scenes that surround you. How epic is that!? 

The most popular monastery to visit at this UNESCO site is the spectacular Monastery of Great Meteoron, notable for its stunning red roof and precarious position. Then there’s the Monastery of St Stephan, which offers some of the most stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. The Monastery of the Holy Trinity is in the most spectacular location and was even used as a film set for a Bond movie.

Rather than just taking a day trip from Athens to Meteora, we’d strongly recommend extending your stay for a much more captivating experience. The closest villages are Kastraki and Kalambaka, two great places to base yourself. This cosy guesthouse in Kalambaka is ideal for a night’s stay, or you can check out this elegant and all-facilities-included boutique hotel in Kastraki .

How to get there: From Athens’ Larissa Railway Station, take the train to Kalambaka. Alternatively, from Athens’ Terminal B bus station, take the bus to Meteora. Takes: 4-hours

Get yet another dose of history at the remarkable archaeological site of Delphi. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, Delphi is a legendary site from ancient Greece that was once a prominent religious sanctuary.

Did you know that Delphi drew in countless travellers because of a famed oracle at the Temple of Apollo? People visited to hear the High Priestess Pythia. Her muttered gibberish was interpreted into prophecies by the priests. One of the later oracles here even persuaded an emperor to invade Persia. Influencers ay?! 

The Sanctuary of Apollo has other ancient ruins you can explore. One is the stadium where the Pythian Games were held, and the theatre which could seat 5000 people at its peak. The Tholos of Delphi, a circular temple, is a sight to behold and a masterpiece of Classical architecture well worth seeing too. The Delphi Museum also hosts some fascinating pieces from the history buffs.

How to get there: From Athens’ Liosion station take the KTEL intercity bus to Delphi. Takes: 3 hours.

Suggested Trip: Delphi Day Trip or Athens to Delphi Full-Day Tour .

Nafplio is a pretty postcard Greek town sitting in a sheltered bay in the Aegean. This seaport has a relaxed Mediterranean ambience and an old-world vibe. The cobblestone streets lined with colourful flowers make Nafplio an ideal romantic day trip from Athens.

Nafplio’s rich heritage is marked by its buildings, medieval Venetian castles, elegant Ottoman fountains and Turkish mosques. The Archaeological Museum in the city centre is a must-visit, along with the Syntagma Square, where charming buildings tell the unique history of the town.

While exploring the city, visit the citadel of Palamidi : it takes more than 900 steps to reach the top! ( There’s a taxi too if you’re being lazy!) There’s also the 15th-century fortress of Bourtizi that sits on its own island in the bay. This castle is only accessible by boat, but the trip is worth it.

Nafplio is an ideal base to visit nearby ancient sites like Mycenae and Epidaurus. If you choose to extend your stay. Check out this delightful hotel nestled in the cobblestone alleys or try this cute hotel Marianna , whose location offers amazing views of the town.

How to get there: From Athens’ Kifissos station take a bus to Nafplio. Takes: 2 hours 10 mins

If you’re looking for a quick island getaway, Aegina is perfect to while away the hours. Aegina has all the offerings of a typical Greek island – ancient ruins, sandy beaches and great seafood. Aegina is the perfect antidote for your aching feet, once you’re done ticking off those must-see Athens sights , it’s time to change up the pace. 

The famous ruins of the Temple of Aphaia on Aegina form part of the ‘Sacred Triangle’, along with the Parthenon and the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion.

Another important site is the Paleochora, a hillside village of ancient Byzantine origins.  Aegina also has some incredible sandy beaches and crystal clear water. Two of the more secluded and undeveloped beaches are Marathon and Perdika. A perfect way to combine a hectic city break with a beach holiday. 

While you’re in Aegina give the famous local variety of pistachios a go. Sample them as a breakfast spread, a pesto or in a ‘fistikato’, a local delicacy consisting of grated pistachio paste with caramel, covered in whole pistachios. That’s the diet out of the window!

Aegina has so much to see and experience that we suggest staying back for a day or two rather than just a day trip from Athens. This family-friendly apartment is a good and well-equipped B&B. Or you can check out this cool and affordable guesthouse in the town.

How to get there: From Athens take a bus or train to the port of Piraeus. Then take a ferry to Aegina Town. Takes: 1.5 hrs

Sorry LOST fans, this is not the island where that Hydra station was located. Though it’s no less enthralling! This gorgeous Greek island is a stunning slice of paradise in the Saronic Islands. Hydra has the allure of a quaint and tranquil island getaway and is one of our favourite day trips from Athens.

Hydra’s charming atmosphere has attracted many famous artists, musicians and celebrities over the years. The island is known for its hillside town, well-preserved stone architecture, picturesque harbour, and pebbly beaches. Did you know that cars are not allowed on the island? Yep! People move around on mules, donkeys or water taxis. 

Hydra’s beaches are an idyllic place to escape the summer heat. You can easily reach them by water taxis – the boat trips offer great views of the island too. Away from the town, you can also visit beautiful villages like Kaminia and Vlycos. And don’t forget to try the fresh seafood and local delicacies from the traditional taverns!

How to get there: From Piraeus port, take the ferry to Hydra Island. Takes: 2-hours

Suggested Trip: Day trip from Athens to Hydra .

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Travel Tips

• Wear comfortable walking shoes – you’ll be walking a lot and over cobblestone streets.
• Wear a cross-body bag or a secure backpack
• Wear sunscreen and a hat – you’ll be outside more often  than not.
• Add a universal voltage adapter plug to your Greece packing list
• Get a SIM card when you get there. (for updating your ‘gram on the go, of course!)
• Tap water is drinkable in Athens so pack an eco-friendly reusable bottle

Best time to visit Athens:

• The best time to visit Greece is Between March and May (Spring) /  September to November (Autumn). These months have fewer crowds, better weather, affordable accommodation and many travel deals. Summers can be a little crazy and a lot more expensive !

Don’t Forget your Athens Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Athens is a fascinating city to visit on your travels around Greece and a perfect place from which to explore the wide range of destinations on offer close by. Taking a day trip from Athens during your time in the city is a great way to see more of this stunning country even on a short visit. With such a variety of sights to take in, from beaches to mountains, lost temples and awe-inspiring floating monasteries it’s sure to be a memorable trip.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Nic Hilditch-Short

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• Living In Croatia
• Croatian Recipes
• Balkan Recipes

Home > Perfect 3 Day Athens Itinerary For First-Timers

Perfect 3 Day Athens Itinerary For First-Timers

Written by our local expert Nick

Nick is is digital nomad originally from Athens, Greece. You will now find him exploring the Greek islands, Bulgaria and beyond.

Welcome to Athens, a city where every step is a journey through history. From the tales of Greek mythology etched in its ancient ruins to the lively bazaars of the Monastiraki Flea Market, Athens is a treasure trove for the curious traveler.

Before you venture off to the idyllic Greek Islands, join me for an insightful 3-day tour of Athens. I’ll guide you through the city’s most compelling historical sites, introduce you to local delights, and help you plan the perfect Athens itinerary.

Get ready to immerse yourself in a blend of antiquity and modernity with my top recommendations for spending three enriching days in the heart of Greece.

You can’t go wrong with a weekend getaway in Athens. The Greek capital is steeped in history, has a fascinating cafe scene that won’t take long to get sucked into, and is home to one of the most famous European landmarks , the Acropolis of Athens.

Three days in Athens is a perfect amount of time to explore the ancient city without rushing too fast, as long as you don’t try to cram too much into your schedule. You might not get to see everything you want, but you will get to tick off some of your bucket list sights.

Planning your three-day Athens itinerary before you arrive will help you maximize your time. Be sure to book tickets ahead of time for key attractions such as the Panathenaic Stadium, especially if you’re visiting during the high season.

In this post, I will show you exactly how to visit Athens in three days so you can hit the ground running when you arrive. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a bit of a shopper who loves a splurge, or an avid foodie, this itinerary will help you plan your upcoming trip .

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Will 3 Days Be Enough In Athens

I often get asked, “How many days do you need to spend in Athens?” and the answer really depends on what type of trip you’re going on. If you’re heading away on a city break with your family or a couple of friends, then three days is a fantastic chunk of time.

But if you wanted to go out to the suburbs and see what they offer, there would be no harm in adding on an extra day or two, so you don’t have to rush around.

To some people, three days are nothing, but with the right preparation, you’d be surprised by what you’ll see in that short space of time.

• How Many Days In Athens Is Enough?

3 Days In Athens, Greece Itineraries

Everyone’s trip to Athens will be different, so I have carefully designed three unique Athens itineraries for specific trips you can use for inspiration for your upcoming Greek vacation.

First Time In Athens Itinerary

• Day 1: visit the Acropolis, check out the Acropolis Museum, walk around the Roman Forum, admire the Temple of Zeus, and explore Plaka
• Day 2: get your photograph taken at Syntagma Square, run around the Panathenaic Stadium, go and see the Byzantine and Christian Museum, and have a picnic in the National Gardens
• Day 3 : grab a Greek breakfas t at Kolonaki, walk through the National Gallery, catch a sunset up the top of Mount Lycabettus, and end the evening by watching a show at the Athens Concert Hall

An Athens Itinerary For Shoppers

• Day 1: walkthrough Monastiraki Square, get your hands on some goods at Ermou Street, and discover some bargains at Exarcheia Day 2: head to Kolonaki and scout out places like Voukourestiou St, Irodotou Street, and Ploutarchou Street Day 3: take the train out to the Athens Mall in Marousi for the day

A Foodies Itinerary For Athens

• Day 1 : book yourself onto a walking food tour from Syntagma Square and indulge in some desserts at Kolokotroni Day 2: sample some Gyros around Koukaki, try out a tasty Greek Salad in Monastiraki, and finish up with a stroll through the central Athens “Varvakios” meat markets
• Day 3: join an Athenian cooking class where you shop for ingredients and venture back to the studio to put your skills to the test

Should I Add On Extra Days In Athens

As I have already mentioned, three days in Athens will allow you to get a taste of the historical Greek metropolis, but if you could stay for one or two more days, you’ll really get the most out of your trip.

The city has a land area of 38 km² and isn’t like other European capitals where there are only one or two main sights to see; Athens easily has 15 – 20 world-class attractions you’ll want to visit when you’re there, and three days might not be enough time.

After that, you’ll have to look at the time it takes to get between the places you want to see. Many of the main ancient sites, like the Temple of Olympian Zeus , the Acropolis, and the Ancient Agora of Athens, are in and around the same area.

Once you start looking at going to the Museum Ship Averof out by the coast, that will take up a good chunk of your time. And it would be best if you still allocated time to walk around gorgeous localities like Plaka.

Traveling to Athens shouldn’t be a race to see how fast you can see everything. You want to enjoy your trip and return home feeling like you’ve grasped the culture and seen how daily life is on the ground.

You can still do that in 3 days, and I will show you exactly how.

Brands We Use And Trust

Transport options in athens.

Athens has a well-established transport system that connects visitors to all corners of the city and is quite affordable to use.

Within half an hour, you can go from strolling around Syntagma Square to sunbathing on Kalamaki Beach out by Piraeus Port . Whether you love riding on the underground Metro or prefer to take a taxi from A to B, you’ll find an option that suits you.

Here are the best forms of transport you can use for getting around when you’re in Athens.

The Metro is undoubtedly the most popular means of transport as it’s incredibly fast and allows you to beat the traffic, particularly during rush hour. You’ll often find yourself using it on your trip to Athens. The city’s metro system comprises three lines: green, red, and yellow, all connecting to different selected tram and bus routes.

Each Metro station is labeled with a light blue symbol representing an “M” and usually has steps on either side of the street for passengers to enter. Riding on the Metro is possible from 5 a.m. until 12 a.m. every day, and on Fridays and Saturdays, the red and blue lines stay open until 2 a.

City buses are a great way of seeing the best of Athens, cruising through the winding streets while seeing all the action outside the window. They connect the main center to the suburbs and operate during the same time as the Metro, from 5 a.m. until 12 a.m.

A 24/7 express bus service runs to the airport from popular areas like Syntagma Square. Be aware that a couple of bus numbers normally stop at one bus stop, and they’re pretty frequent, so if you miss your ride, you can wait around for another.

Athen’s tram system is the gateway between the main center and the coastal areas like Voula and Pireaus, where the port has the main ferry routes going out to all the islands .

The tram lines are labeled T6 and T7; the T6 route goes out as far as Faliro, whereas the T7 will go to Piraeus. All the trams in Athens are well-maintained and super clean, making the journey out to the Aegean Sea nice and comfortable.

Every once in a while, I want the convenience of hopping into a car without waiting around at a bus stop or an underground station. Taxis are everywhere in Athens; fares are usually charged by the kilometer with a starting fee of €1.29, and all taxis (should) have meters, so make sure you get the driver to turn it on before you take off.

If you’re struggling to get around, download FreeNow, a mobile taxi application that shows you nearby taxis in your area. Sometimes, it can be even cheaper than hailing a cab, so weigh up your options.

Highlights From Our Athens Itineraries

See below for some of the highlights of our listed itineraries that you may want to include in yours, whether you’re feeling peckish and fancy a bite to eat or want to see the remains of Ancient Greek Civilization.

The Acropolis

Nothing on this planet is like the Acropolis; seeing it with your own two eyes is truly special. Perched on a hill overlooking the capital, this archaeological site comprises several significant sites. One of them is the Pantheon, a limestone-made citadel that was once a mythical fortress during the Neolithic times and a place where people could worship the legendary gods.

Additionally, you’ll also be able to see other key landmarks nearby, like the Erechtheion, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, the Theater of Dionysus, and the Temple of Athena Nike.

As you already know, the Acropolis is the face of Athens, so the entry lines can be long, especially on the weekends and throughout the summer months. Purchasing your ticket online beforehand will cut out the main chunk of waiting time, although there still could be a bit of a queue if it’s really busy.

• Book One Of These Luxury Hotels With Acropolis Views
• How To Get From The Airport To The Acropolis

The Acropolis Museum

At the bottom of the hill of the Acropolis in the Makriyianni area, you’ll find the Acropolis Museum, a facility that history buffs will love. It’s a massive collection of over 3000 artifacts that were found in the famous Acropolis archaeological site at the time of its discovery, spread across 25,000 square meters.

Originally, the museum was called “the Old Museum on the Rock of the Acropolis,” but it has since been replaced with the “Acropolis Museum.” As you walk through the complex, you’ll be able to see all kinds of relics from ancient times, including sculptures like the Parthenon West Frieze and statues such as the Head of a Statue of Alexander the Great.

After you’ve had your historical fix, you can have a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant/cafe or read one of the books available in the quiet reading areas.

The Roman Forum (Roman Agora)

Wedged in the middle of two of the capital’s main districts, Plaka and Monastiraki, the Roman Forum dates back somewhere between 19 and 11 BC. Emperor Augustus gave the green light for its construction, and it acted as the city’s trade center for many years, even after the Herulian invasion. It survived in some capacity for many years through a handful of occupations, including the Ottoman and the Frankish.

Today, the Roman forum can be seen as you walk through the city streets, or if you’d prefer a more in-depth look, you can pay an entrance fee at the gate €8 during the high season and €4 in the low season. Tour websites like Get Your Guide have a couple of excursions available with a stop there, too, and you get to have a local guide if that’s what you’re interested in.

The Temple Of Zeus

East of the Acropolis is the remains of the Temple of Zeus, which was constructed in the name of the Chief of Gods, and it took over 13 years to finish due to the rises and falls of various emperors. Funnily enough, the structure was never fully completed, as it was constantly renovated.

What’s left today are a few 17-meter-high limestone pillars surrounded by slabs of rubble throughout the archaeological site; it may not be as substantial as what you’d find at the Acropolis, but it’s still truly fascinating.

Standard tickets can be purchased at the gate and come with an audio guide. Listen to how Theseus discovered the city of Athens, and step back in time to hear what life was like back then.

An Athens travel itinerary isn’t truly complete without a walk through Plaka, a charming district away below the Acropolis celebrated for its winding streets, adorable cafes, tree-covered buildings, and souvenir shops.

Even though it tends to be one of the city’s main attractions in the high season, it still manages to hold on to its beauty and lure tourists after visiting some of the other landmarks in the area.

You could visit Plaka with the intention of only spending ten to fifteen minutes and end up staying for half of the day; it really does have that wow factor.

Treat yourself to a snack in Fotini’s Deli, sip a warm cup of coffee at the Melina Mercouri Café, or get your photo taken at Adrianou, Plaka’s most famous street. Plaka is unquestionably one of the best places to visit in Athens.

The Panathenaic Stadium

Anyone planning a trip to Athens must include the Panathenaic Stadium on their itinerary. Dating back to the 5th century BC, this stadium is where the first modern Olympic Games were held and is one of the only of its kind made from marble alone.

Entrance tickets for the Panathenaic Stadium are available at the gate, including access to the whole site and an audio guide. Don’t leave without getting a picture taken on one of the prize podiums; show your friends back home that you’re the real Olympian champion!

Syntagma Square

Syntagma Square is Athen’s beating heart; it’s a location that holds great historical significance, as well as being one of the main meeting points for locals and tourists and a place where many public events are held. Surrounded by elegant rooftop restaurants like GB Roof Garden, retail stores including Nike, and key places of interest such as Monument to the Unknown Soldier, Syntagma Square has it all.

While you’re at Syntagma Square, you have to take a look at some of the famous sites in the vicinity. The Hellenic Parliament stands out on the east of the square; it’s Greece’s main body of legislation, in simple terms, the Greek Parliament.

Positioned on the square’s northern side, Hotel Grande Bretagne is recognized as a historical landmark, having been constructed in 1842 and is proudly still standing today.

The Byzantine And Christian Museum

Another one of the great Athens experiences is the Byzantine and Christian Museum. It was set up in 1914 to showcase the best of the Byzantine and Post-Byzantine cultural heritage and now holds 30,000 artifacts, including sculptures, ceramics, jewelry, textiles, paintings, and mosaics.

The museum is split into two sections; the first displays findings dating from the 4th to the 15th centuries AD, while the second exhibits discoveries from the 15th to the 20th centuries.

If you have plans to visit the National Archaeological Museum, Numismatic Museum, or Epigraphical Museum with the Byzantine and Christian Museum, an excellent ticket combo is available, granting you access to all of them for a one-time fee of 15 euros.

The National Gardens

Acting as the halfway point between Syntagma Square and the Panathenaic Stadium, the National Gardens is what you need to finish a perfect day of exploring in Athens.

This secluded paradise is a beacon of calm amongst the chaos of the big city life, boasting 16 hectares of lush green space dotted with resting benches, tiny peaceful lakes, a little animal farm home to chickens, peacocks, and goats, a play area for kids and library.

The National Gardens has three access points at Zappeion Megaron, Vassilissis Sofias Avenue, and Amalias Avenue, and it’s free to enter every day from 6 A.M. until 7:30 p.m.

The affluent hillside district of Kolonaki is renowned for its posh vibe, high-end eateries, sumptuous cocktails, and extravagant boutique hotels. If you’re a sucker for modern and neoclassical architecture, you’ll love this place, from the uniquely designed buildings to the old-style mansions still standing today.

Kolonaki houses some of Athen’s most prominent museums, including the Benaki Museum, the Museum of Cycladic Art, the Children’s Museum, the History of Greek Costume, and the Numismatic Museum, so check some of them out if you have time.

Mount Lycabettus

Do you want to see one of the best views in Athens ? Mount Lycabettus is placed 277 meters high above the city center and is an incredible vantage point for spotting the likes of the Acropolis, Temple of Olympian Zeus, and Panathenaic Olympic Stadium; there’s no better spot to catch a sunset.

If the sunshine is getting to you, you can take a cable car up to the top of Mount Lycabettus, which is available at Plutarch Street down in Kolonaki. It operates between 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 a.m. and runs every 30 minutes with two cars going at the same time. Plus, the journey only takes 3 minutes instead of tackling the treacherous climb.

Athens Concert Hall

The Athens Concert Hall is a must-see for music lovers. The premier venue opened its doors in 1991 and has seen countless top-tier orchestras perform shows for hundreds of visitors over the years.

Tickets for shows at the Athens Concert Hall can be purchased at the Megaron Box Office, located at Athens Concert Hall, and Vas. Sofias Ave. Kokkali Street, as well as online in advance, which is highly advised, especially if a big-name performer is included on that evening’s lineup.

Monastiraki Square

Known as one of the oldest localities in all of Athens, Monastiraki Square is made up of the significant Ancient Agora, the Tzistarakis Mosque, bustling souvenir shops, and one of the busiest metro stations in the whole city.

The well-visited shopping street of Ermou Street is connected to Monastiraki Square and offers a nice mix of retail and souvenir stores with hidden bargains throughout. While it remains crowded with tourists throughout the day, thanks to the establishments keeping their doors open until 10 p.m., it’s a sight worth seeing, even if shopping isn’t your main interest.

The Athens Mall

Often overlooked because of how far it is from the main touristy areas in the city, the Athens Mall is one of the main shopping hot spots with four floors of up to 200 shops made up of big names brands including Bershka, Vans, United Colors, of Benetton, Tommy Hilfiger, New Balance and many more.

Walking Food Tours Of Athens

We all know that Greek cuisine is highly regarded all over the globe, and what better way to try the best of what it has to offer than with the help of a local through a walking food tour?

Across the capital, many companies run these outings where you’ll get to taste delicious street eats like traditional Gyros, Souvlaki, Loukoumades, and lots more.

These excursions can last anywhere from an hour to four hours and are sometimes tailored towards certain aspects of the food scene, e.g., Gyros tastings.

You can see a full list of street food tours available in Athens through tour websites like Get Your Guide and Viator.

• The Best Rooftop Bars And Best Restaurants In Athens

Move This Adventure To Your Inbox & Get An Instant Freebie

No spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

What Are The Best Tips To Plan A Trip To Athens

• Choose the right neighborhood to stay in that suits your travel needs.  You know the type of traveler you are and what essentials you want nearby; for some, they want to be close to nightlife, while for others, it’s shopping
• The best time of year to visit Athens depends on your preferences. If you’re a fan of the sunshine and don’t mind spending a bit more money on accommodation, flights, and experiences, well, then the summer months between June and August will be best for you. Anyone who isn’t a fan of hoards of tourists doesn’t really mind a bit of rain here or there, and wants a budget-friendly getaway will much prefer the winter, from December to February
• Knowing what you want to see before arriving is important , especially because you’ll only be in Athens for three days. I have listed our recommendations above, but you might not want to stick to the itineraries and choose some attractions from each one, and that’s perfectly fine. Still, you need to understand how you’ll navigate between the sights so your trip runs smoothly. Researching public transport options, opening times, etc., is essential so you don’t have any hassle while there
• Budget is everything when it comes to travel . After all, it’s what allows us to go on these vacations. It’s worth noting that Athens isn’t the cheapest city in the world, but if you follow a few simple rules like eating away from the main hotspots and utilizing public transport, you’ll get by and save yourself a few euros. The best thing you can do is set a daily spending budget and try your hardest not to go over it; on the days you don’t, you can add the funds to the next day and enjoy your money more

That’s How You Spend Three Days In Athens, Greece

Now that you know how to visit Athens in three days, you can start putting the plans in place for a memorable trip to the birthplace of democracy.

Three days are ideal for visiting Athens for seeing a few sights on your bucket list, dabbling your feet into the culinary scene, and getting a quick feel of Greek culture. 

Is three days enough to see Athens?

Athens is a bustling city with a lot to see and do. How many days you should spend in Athens depends on your interests and how much time you have. Generally, we recommend spending at least 3-4 days in Athens so that you can see the main sights and get a feel for the city.

How to spend 3 days in Athens for first-time visitors?

How to spend 3 days in athens for shoppers.

• Day 1:walkthrough h Monastiraki Square, get your hands on some goods at Ermou Street, and discover some bargains at Exarcheia Day 2: head to Kolonaki and scout out places like Voukourestiou St, Irodotou Street, and Ploutarchou Street Day 3: take the train out to the Athens Mall in Marousi for the day

How to spend 3 days in Athens for foodies?

• Day 1 : book yourself onto a walking tour from Syntagma Square and indulge in some desserts at Kolokotroni Day 2: sample some Gyros around Koukaki, try out a tasty Greek Salad in Monastiraki, and finish up with a stroll through the central Athens “Varvakios” meat markets

Can I purchase tickets in advance to save time?

Absolutely – many combo tickets can be purchased ahead of time and can help you skip the lines. Sometimes they are a little more expensive than buying each ticket individually, but if you’ve only got 3 days in Athens, make every minute count!

What is the fastest way to get from the Athens International Airport into the city of Athens?

I highly recommend private transport arranged ahead of time if you don’t want to wait around for public transport. Often, private transport personnel will be waiting for you at the airport, ready to take off as soon as you’ve collected your bags.

Waste no more time; start making arrangements and book your flights today for a city that is steeped with ancient history and is without question worth visiting for at least 3 days!

• Where To Stay In Athens
• How To Get From Athens Airport To The Acropolis
• Athens Rooftop Restaurants With An Acropolis View
• Athens Travel Advice + Things To Do
• Best Landmarks In Athens
• Closest Islands To Athens

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Subscribe To Unlock Your FREE Customizable Travel Packing List & All Our Best Tips!

Unlock Your FREE Customizable Travel Packing List!

Subscribe Now For Instant Access To Stress-Free Packing

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes

How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Athens, Greece, According to Travel Experts Like Rick Steves

The ancient Greek city delivers one memorable vacation.

Cavan Images/Getty Images

There’s not much that hasn’t been written about the perks of visiting Athens, Greece. The ancient city has long been a popular travel destination, thanks to its bountiful historical sites, distinct architecture, and oh-so fantastic food. But just because it’s all been said doesn’t mean it isn’t worth repeating. So, we’ll say it one more time: Athens is, without question, one of the world’s greatest travel destinations, especially for those famed attractions. And we’re not the only ones who share this sentiment. 

“The Acropolis, one of the most important ancient sites in the Western world, is crowned by an architectural masterpiece: the mighty Parthenon,” Rick Steves told Travel + Leisure . “I visit in the cool of the early evening, when the crowds are gone and the setting sun turns the marble golden.”

But Athens' appeal goes far beyond its history lessons. “Athens has a vibe. The restaurants and bars feel intimate, and visitors can either indulge in the city's vibrant nightlife scene or simply go for a stroll at night — the city is second to none during the evening,” Alys Colayera, the lead travel expert for Greece at Black Tomato, shared with T+L. Colayera also called out the city's shopping scene, noting, "The boutique shops have tons of local artisans selling high-quality Greek crafts, jewelry, and clothing.”

Ready to start plotting your own Athens adventure? Here’s how to plan the perfect trip. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Don't miss Greece's most recognizable landmark — the Acropolis. Get there early to experience it with fewer crowds.
• Spend a night at the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens, T+L readers' favorite hotel in 2023 World's Best Awards.
• Head to Syntagma Square to watch the official changing of the guard every hour on the hour.
• Grab a souvenir or a snack in the famed Plaka neighborhood.
• Order a coffee at Minu, arguably the coolest cafe in Greece, and then sit in its garden or take it to go to explore the antique shops nearby.

Courtesy of The Four Seasons

Best Hotels and Resorts 

Four seasons astir palace hotel athens.

The Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens — a T+L reader favorite in 2023 — holds a prime location along the Athens Riviera, providing ocean views while remaining just a short drive from all the city's major attractions. It also sits on 75 private acres, making it an ideal spot for those looking for a bit of solitude. 

Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens

“My all-time favorite [hotel] is the Grande Bretagne , a landmark right in the heart of the city that celebrates 150 years of history this year,” said Christos Stergiou , a T+L A-List Advisor and founder of TrueTrips . “From its rooftop restaurant to its elegant lobby and rooms, it epitomizes class and culture.” Plus, it doesn’t hurt that this property is consistently a top choice in T+L’s World’s Best Awards, coming in second for our readers’ favorite hotels in Athens in 2023. 

Gatsby Athens

For a truly central stay in the city, there's no better place than the Gatsy Athens . Located right outside the Plaka neighborhood, the property makes for a fantastic home base for those looking to walk just about everywhere in the city. Inside, guests will find a playful space filled with art deco touches and a fantastic food and beverage program. Just don’t miss the guest-only rooftop, which provides spectacular views of the city. 

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Best Things to Do 

Visit the acropolis..

As Steves alluded to, no trip to Athens is complete without a visit to the Acropolis . And it’s a sentiment Colayera agrees with. “The Acropolis is the epitome of ancient Greek architecture and a symbol of Athens. It houses several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon,” said Colayera. The best time to go is early morning or late evening, when the crowds are thinner, though you should always expect other tourists hanging around. Want to make the most of your visit? Colayera also suggested checking out the Acropolis Museum, home to a collection of artifacts discovered during archaeological excavations of the Acropolis. “The exhibits offer insights into the daily life, rituals, and artistry of the people who lived in Athens during different periods,” Colayera added. 

See Hadrian’s Library.

Another fantastic historic landmark to visit while in Athens is Hadrian's Library. The building, built in 132 A.D., was used as an entertainment space, lecture hall, and, yes, an actual library. Today, just a few columns and sections remain, but visitors are welcome to walk through and imagine what used to be. Tickets are only $3 or can be purchased as a combination with the Acropolis. 

Watch the changing of the guard at Syntagma Square.

Looking for a fun free activity in the city? Visitors to Athens can watch the changing of the guard in front of the Parliament building at Syntagma Square every hour on the hour. And every Sunday at 11 a.m., the official event takes place in full regalia. Just plan to arrive a little early to snag a front-row seat. 

Visit the National Museum of Contemporary Art.

For something a little more new school, head to the National Museum of Contemporary Art . The museum’s mission is to preserve contemporary works by Greek and international artists across disciplines. It includes both permanent and rotating collections, so check its website before going to know what to expect. 

Ken Welsh/Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Best Shopping 

It’s hard to ignore the Plaka neighborhood of Athens. It is, after all, at the base of the Acropolis. But really, there’s no need to ignore it, especially if you want to go home with a memorable souvenir or two. Explore the area by simply allowing yourself to wander its streets, popping into any shop that catches your eye and perhaps grabbing a frappe along the way on a hot day, too. 

Find yourself in one of the city’s most colorful neighborhoods with a visit to Psirri. Located about a 15-minute walk from Plaka, Psirri offers travelers the chance to admire some of the best street art in the world ( book a tour with Kalliopi for the ultimate insider experience), peruse unique stores, step into a few third-wave coffee shops, and eat plenty of local Greek cuisine. 

Anthologist

For those seeking an all-around shop, where you can pick up everything from high-end goods to more affordable trinkets curated from around the globe, look no further than Anthologist . The store, owned by travel tastemaker Andria Mitsakos, is a visual paradise, filled with goodies you’ll want to stuff in your suitcase. 

RUBEN RAMOS/Getty Images

Best Restaurants 

Begin a day in Athens by mixing fantastic food with shopping at Minu , a third-wave coffee shop and boutique. The space is gorgeous — find a back corner to settle into, go all the way up to its loft area, or sit outside on the patio when the weather is right. Order a coffee and a bite to eat (menu items include smoothie bowls, avocado toast, and more).

Enjoy another delicious alfresco meal in Athens at Soil , a sustainably focused, Michelin-starred restaurant. The ingredients here are grown in the chef’s private garden, providing flavors you can’t taste anywhere else. Book a table (preferably outside) and don’t even worry about ordering, as you can opt for the seasonal tasting menu and enjoy every bite. 

Don’t leave Athens without digging into some tasty Greek desserts. When I was a child, my Greek grandmother would make loukoumades , so it’s a personal favorite, and in Athens, you can get a taste of the same at Lukumades . Smothered in honey and cinnamon, the dough balls are small enough to pop in your mouth one after another — and you won't be able to stop at just one.

Starcevic/Getty Images

Best Time To Visit

There's no bad time to visit Athens, but according to Steves, the spring shoulder season is particularly lovely. “I was last in Athens in April 2022, and it was a great time to visit. The weather was cool and pleasant, and the city wasn’t crowded,” he said. “It just felt good.” Indeed, both the spring shoulder season (April to mid-June) and the fall (September through October) offer visitors the chance to explore the city in milder weather. Summer is the peak period, and with it comes sweltering temperatures . So, if you don’t tolerate heat (or crowds) well, try to book your stay outside of July and August.  

How to Get There

By Air: Travelers from around the world can make their way to Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos). It’s serviced by every major airline, including Delta and American, which offers direct flights from the U.S. 

By Sea: Athens is an ultra-popular port for cruises, including MSC Cruises , Crystal Cruises , Seabourn , Royal Caribbean , and more.  

How to Get Around

By Rental Car: Rental cars are readily available in the city, at the airport, and at the ferry terminal. Just make sure to book an automatic as early as possible if you can’t drive a manual, as they tend to be in short supply.  

By Taxi: Both yellow cabs and Ubers are plentiful around Athens. Simply open the app or hail the next one you see. Prices are about €1 per kilometer .

By Metro: Athens has a robust metro system to get you around the city with ease. There's also a metro line directly to and from the airport. Pick up a rechargeable Ath.ena ticket , which starts at €1.20. 

By Foot: Athens is a walkable city. If you enjoy slowly taking in the sights and popping in and out of shops and cafes, this is the way to go. You never know what you may find along the way.

15 Top-Rated Day Trips from Athens

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Mar 2, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Some of the Greece's top tourist attractions are within easy reach of Athens . Fascinating historical monuments, spectacular natural scenery, and peaceful spiritual retreats can be visited on day trips from Greece's capital city.

Just a short drive or bus ride from the city are the UNESCO-listed Monastery of Daphne, the inspiring Kaisariani Monastery, the hiker's paradise of Mount Parnitha, and the gorgeous Lake Vouliagmeni on the Athens Riviera coastline.

Other destinations are slightly further afield and merit staying overnight, especially Metéora, where amazing monasteries spring forth from a mystical landscape, and Nafplio, a romantic seaside town that is a perfect base for visiting archaeological sites in Mycenae and Epidaurus.

Any of these excursions would make a fantastic addition to your Greece vacation itinerary . Discover the best places to visit and plan your adventures with our list of the best day trips from Athens.

3. Mycenae: The Legendary City of Greek Mythology

4. athens riviera (coast of apollo), 5. the islands of aegina, poros, and hydra, 7. the romantic city of nafplio, 8. the ancient theater of epidaurus, 9. the monastery of daphni, 10. monastery of kaisariani, 11. ancient cult mysteries at eleusis, 12. piraeus: an ancient harbor, modern port, and ferry terminus, 13. lake marathon, 14. mystras, 15. mount parnitha, map of day trips from athens.

In an enchanting natural setting between two craggy peaks of Mount Parnassus , the archaeological ruins of Delphi have a magical quality. At this legendary site during Classical antiquity, an oracle shared advice and prophecies.

This intriguing UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site was one of the most important religious centers in Greece in the 6th century BCE (on par with the Island of Delos). During ancient times, pilgrims came to hear the oracle of Apollo (a prophetess believed to channel the words of the god Apollo) speak at Delphi's Temple of Apollo.

Among the highlights of visiting Delphi is walking along The Sacred Way that leads up to the Temple of Apollo. This route gives visitors a sense of the pilgrimage path once used to enter the hallowed Sanctuary of Apollo , a complex of several monuments.

The Archaeological Museum of Delphi displays objects uncovered at the archaeological site and is considered one of the world's best collections of ancient Greek artifacts, dating from the Mycenaean period to Late Antiquity. Highlights include the Classical-era bronze Charioteer of Delphi statue, the 6th-century BCE Sphinx of Naxos (lion's body with bird wings and a woman's head), and sculpted treasuries (reliefs) that reveal mythological scenes. The museum also has a gift shop and a cafeteria.

Delphi is 180 kilometers from Athens, and it's possible to visit it as a day trip, although the drive takes about 2.5 hours. For those who have the time, an overnight trip is more relaxing, but for travelers spending only one day in Delphi, the best way to see all the essential places is by taking an organized excursion.

The Delphi Day Trip from Athens is recommended because it features a walking tour through the archaeological site, led by a knowledgeable guide who shares insights about the ancient monuments and history. This tour also includes a visit to the Archaeological Museum.

Breathtakingly surreal and serenely spiritual, the Metéora monasteries spring forth from a dreamy landscape of rocky cliffs in the Plain of Thessaly.

The first hermits came to this far-removed corner of Greece at least as early as the 9th century to withdraw from the world and contemplate divinity. Christian Orthodox monks began building monasteries here in the 14th century and continued establishing monasteries until the 16th century.

Originally 24 monasteries stood at this astonishing location, built onto the edges of vertiginous cliffs or perched on sheer sandstone formations reaching 300 meters to over 500 meters in elevation. With their exalted heights and almost mystical inaccessibility, the Metéora monasteries seem to soar towards heaven and reflect the human striving for holiness.

Currently only a small group of monks and nuns live and worship at the six remaining Metéora monasteries that are still active. Today, Metéora draws more tourists than spiritual seekers, as this designated UNESCO World Heritage Site is an extremely popular travel destination. The six working monasteries (including two convents) at the site are open to the public.

Standing on a high rock formation, the Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron (Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of Christ) presides over the landscape and affords phenomenal views. Founded in the 14th century, the Great Meteoron Monastery is the largest monastery at Metéora. Highlights include 16th-century frescoes and a collection of Greek Orthodox religious icons and Byzantine-era manuscripts.

The Monastery of Varlaám , founded in the 14th century and built in the 16th century, is the second largest monastery in Metéora. Accessible by a pedestrian staircase, this monastery has a magnificent domed church decorated with exquisite frescoes. The monastic complex also includes a museum of reliquaries (in the former refectory), dormitory quarters, and a small wood-roofed chapel.

Clinging to a steep precipice as if suspended in midair, the glorious 15th-century Monastery of Holy Trinity is the most inaccessible; it's reached by a pedestrian pathway that leads to a staircase of 300 steps. This monastery boasts the most spectacular location of Metéora, which was used as a film set in For Your Eyes Only (a 1981 movie) when James Bond scaled the cliffside.

The Monastery of Saint Nicholas of Anapafsas, dating to the 14th century, features a tiny low-domed church decorated with precious murals created in 1527 by Theophanes Strelitzas, a monk from the island of Crete. These frescoes are considered among the finest examples of post-Byzantine painting in Greece.

One of the most striking sights in Metéora, the 16th-century Monastery of Roussanou comprises several buildings that crown sheer pinnacles. Now a convent, the Monastery of Roussanou is home to a small community of around 15 nuns. From the Monastery of Roussanou, visitors can take in views of the other Metéora monasteries and the dramatic landscape.

In a vantage point that offers superb panoramas of the valley and the mountains, the Monastery of Saint Stephan (another convent) is the easiest of the monasteries to access because it is reached by a footbridge rather than steps.

Tourists who have enough time can hike from one monastery to the next.

Metéora is a long journey from Athens (about 350 kilometers away) whether traveling by train, bus, or car, so it can be difficult to fit in as a day trip. For the easiest and best experience at Metéora, a guided excursion is the way to go. Travelers get the most out of a well-organized tour, such as the Meteora Day Trip by Train from Athens that allows for visits to three monasteries, led by a guide who explains the unique history of each monastery.

The real-life location of the city of Agamemnon in Greek mythology (often mentioned by Homer), the archaeological ruins of Mycenae are 120 kilometers from Athens and about 25 kilometers from Nafplio.

Mycenae dates to the Bronze Age, when the fortified citadel at this hilltop settlement was an important center of ancient Mycenaean civilization , especially in the 14th and 13th century BCE. The earliest archaeological fragments uncovered here date to the 15th century BCE, considered the Prehistoric Period .

Visitors can see remains of ancient palaces, fountains, ramparts, and the famous Lion's Gate and "Tomb of Agamemnon" (also called the "Treasury of Atreus"). Many of the ruins are remarkably well-preserved considering their antiquity.

To get the most out of a visit to this incredible archaeological site, a guided tour is the best option. The full-day Mycenae and Epidaurus Day Trip departs from Athens, and stops in Mycenae, Nafplio, and Epidaurus. The visit to Mycenae includes a walking tour led by an expert in ancient Greek history, who illuminates the significance of the Mycenae ruins and tells interesting stories.

This lovely stretch of coastline begins just a few kilometers outside of Athens and extends for approximately 100 kilometers (a two-hour drive) until reaching Cape Soúnion. This area has many archaeological ruins, as well as pampering spas, five-star hotels, traditional restaurants, golf courses, beach clubs, sailing clubs, and yacht marinas.

During summertime, vacation-goers luxuriate in the balmy weather, go for strolls along palm-fringed seaside esplanades, and bask in the sunshine on well-maintained beaches.

Highlights of the Athens Riviera include the seaport of Lavrio ; the mesmerizing Lake Vouliagmeni , therapeutic natural hot springs with underwater caves; and the impressive Doric-style Temple of Poseidon (dating to the 5th century BCE), which stands majestically on a steep crag at Cape Soúnion overlooking the sparkling emerald-blue waters of the Mediterranean.

It's easy to visit many of the attractions along the Athens Riviera by using public transportation; the tram leaves from Syntagma Square in the Athens city center.

The most delightful way to discover the Athens Riviera is by taking an organized tour. The Cape Soúnion and Temple of Poseidon Half-Day Trip departs from Athens for a scenic drive along the coastline, winding along the stunning coastal cliffs until arriving at the Temple of Poseidon. At the archaeological site, tourists can explore the ruins, take photos, and admire the ravishing sea view that extends all the way to the Island of Kea on a clear day.

Surrounded by the calm blue waters of the Saronic Gulf , the islands of Aegina, Poros, and Hydra are easy day-trip destinations for tourists based in Athens. All three islands are accessible by ferry boats from the port at Piraeus (12 kilometers from Athens).

The Island of Aegina, the closest to Athens (a 40-minute ferry ride from Piraeus), is famous for the Temple of Athena Aphaia, which is one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Greece. Other must-see attractions include the ancient ruins of the Temple of Apollo and the Archaeological Museum with a famous 6th-century BCE sculpture of the Aegina Sphinx.

Known for its beautiful sandy shoreline and crystal-clear waters, the Island of Poros (a one-hour ferry ride from Piraeus) is ideal for family summer vacations and weekend trips from Athens. Highlights include the waterfront town of Poros and the seaside village of Askeli with tourist-friendly beaches, cafés, and restaurants.

Slightly farther from Athens but still an easy day trip, the Island of Hydra is an enchanting destination, where donkeys are the only means of public transportation. Narrow cobblestone streets and pedestrian alleyways add to the old-world feel. The island's capital, Hydra Town, features an attractive and bustling harbor. The island also has a small fishing village with good seafood tavernas, a scenic coastal walking path, and calm sheltered beaches.

Each of the islands merits a visit, but because of the limited ferry schedule, it's only logistically feasible to visit one of the islands on a day trip if traveling by ferry.

One way to see all three islands in a day (and much easier than traveling by ferry from Piraeus) is the Hydra, Poros, and Aegina Day Cruise . This full-day cruise departs in Athens and stops at all three islands. Sufficient time is allowed on each island for taking leisurely strolls, visiting the historic monuments, browsing souvenir shops, and relaxing at outdoor cafés. This cruise also includes lunch and a traditional Greek music and dance performance.

Read More: Top-Rated Greek Islands

About 85 kilometers (a one-hour drive) from Athens and 40 kilometers (a 35-minute drive) from Mycenae, Corinth is a modern port town with a bustling waterfront scene and a wide selection of things to do , including plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafés.

For tourists, the main attraction is the Ancient Corinth archaeological site (nine kilometers outside the modern town). Standing on the highest point in Ancient Corinth, the iconic Temple of Apollo (dating to the 5th century BCE) appears from a distance to dominate the landscape. Upon closer observation, the temple's massive Doric columns give a sense of the monument's original scale and grandeur.

Most of the other ruins at the site date to the 1st century CE (during the era of Roman rule), including the forum, bathhouse, theater, the temple of Octavia, and the healing sanctuary of Asklepios.

Many of the objects excavated at the archaeological site are now on display at the nearby Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth . This museum displays an extensive collection of antiquities, including pottery, mosaics, and statues. The ancient Roman mosaic floors and sculpted busts are especially noteworthy.

To truly appreciate the ancient ruins and artifacts, the best option is to go on a guided tour. One recommendation is the Corinth Half-Day Trip from Athens , which begins with a scenic drive along the Saronic Gulf and stops briefly at the Corinth Canal before arriving at Corinth for a tour of the archeological site and the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth. The half-day trip concludes by stopping at a seaside village before returning to Athens.

In a sheltered bay on the Argolic Gulf , this picturesque seaport is full of old-world romance. Nafplio exudes lively Mediterranean ambience in every corner of the town, but especially in its waterfront cafés and atmospheric alleyways.

Boasting a rich heritage, Nafplio dates back to the Prehistoric Era with the Argonautic Expedition and the Trojan War. Later, the conquering Romans, Byzantine Empire, Venetians, and Ottoman Turks left their mark in a plethora of ancient monuments: impressive Venetian fortresses, elaborate Ottoman fountains, and domed Turkish mosques.

At the city's center is the Italianate Syntagma Square , lined with historic buildings. Another top attraction is the Palamidi Castle , presiding over a hilltop more than 200 meters above sea level. It's a rewarding trek up to the castle, but it requires a walk of nearly 1,000 steps.

Another castle is even more inaccessible, the Venetian Bourtzi Fortress on the islet of Agioi Theodoroi, which can only be reached by boat during the tourism season, but is still a popular destination and the most-photographed landmark of Nafplio. The Bourtzi Fortress hosts the Summer Music Festival in June.

Nafplio is about 136 kilometers from Athens in Greece's Peloponnese region. It's a great base for spending a few days to visit the archaeological sites in Mycenae (21 kilometers away) and Epidaurus (35 kilometers away).

Another ancient town worthy of a detour is Argos (12 kilometers from Nafplio), which has an excellent Archaeological Museum . Outside of the town are excavated ruins that include ancient Roman baths ( thermae ), a marketplace ( agora ), the Temple of Aphrodite (Venus), and a Hellenistic-era theater with seating for an audience of 20,000 spectators (making it among the largest in ancient Greece).

The Ancient Theater of Argos is still in use today, when it becomes the venue for the Summer Festival of Argos-Mycenae from June through August. Attending a music concert or dance performance under a starry night sky at this spacious and beautifully designed ancient theater is among the most memorable things to do while on vacation in Greece.

This pleasant seaside town on the Saronic Gulf is about a three-hour drive from Athens and a 30-minute drive from Nafplio. The main tourist draw of Epidaurus is the well-preserved Ancient Theater (near the ancient Sanctuary of Asklepios), which dates from the 4th century BCE.

Visitors can easily imagine the Greek dramas that were performed here more than two millennia ago, especially during the Athens Epidaurus Festival (in June, July, and August) when the Ancient Theater is a venue for performances of ancient Greek drama.

The Athens Epidaurus Festival also presents contemporary and avant-garde music; theater and dance performances are held at the Little Theater (also from the 4th-century BCE) of Epidaurus. Other festival events take place at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, an ancient theater in Athens.

Those who'd like to learn more about Epidaurus' ancient history will appreciate the Archaeological Museum , located within the Sanctuary of Asklepios archaeological site. The museum displays architectural elements that were discovered at the Sanctuary of Asklepios, as well as pottery, statues, coins, and other objects uncovered at the archaeological site.

For an enjoyable and educational visit to Epidaurus, try an organized excursion such as the Mycenae and Epidaurus Day Trip . This guided tour departing from Athens features a scenic drive along the Saronic Gulf and visits to the archaeological sites in Mycenae and Epidaurus, where a knowledgeable guide shares historical details that help bring the ancient ruins to life.

The Monastery of Daphni is tucked away in a serene natural setting, only about 10 kilometers from Athens city center . In ancient times, this location was the site of the Temple of Apollo , to whom the laurel ( daphne ) was sacred, explaining the origin of the monastery's name. The pagan shrine was converted to an early Christian monastery, which was replaced by the present monastery in 1080.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the monastery is renowned for its gilded 11th-century mosaics adorning the church interior. The glittering sanctuary is considered one of the finest Byzantine churches in Greece, on par with the monasteries of Hosios Loukas near Delphi and Nea Moni of Chios. Next to the monastery's cloister is a pleasant courtyard.

Only eight kilometers from Athens, the Kaisariani Monastery is nestled in a forest at the foot of Mount Hymettos . A parkland surrounds the monastery, providing welcome shade and fragrance with its pine trees, cypresses, Mediterranean shrubs, and aromatic flowers.

Monks once used the monastery's property for beekeeping and growing medicinal herbs. The grounds feature a natural spring that previously channeled water to the ancient Roman Temple of Aphrodite , which stood on this site.

The pure waters of the Kaisariani Spring were (and continue to be) credited with healing powers, particularly for women who wish to bear children. This water flows from a fountain shaped like a ram's head (with its mouth functioning as the spout) in the courtyard of Kaisariani Monastery.

In harmony with the restful surroundings, the monastery's 11th-century Byzantine church features a simple harmonious design. The cross-in-square layout with a central dome is typical of Byzantine architecture. Intricately detailed 17th-century frescoes adorn the interior.

After admiring the church, tourists should spend time wandering the extensive grounds, perhaps sitting under a shady tree in quiet reflection or having lunch at one of the picnic areas. Visitors may also relax at the monastery's small café in the forest or venture out onto the walking trails. The scenic paths afford sweeping panoramas of Athens in the distance and the surrounding countryside.

This archaeological site gives visitors an insight into the famous Eleusinian Mysteries , the secret religious rites of the Mycenaean era (15th-century BCE to 13th century BCE). At Eleusis (21 kilometers from Athens), tourists can see the ruins of the ancient sanctuaries associated with the Eleusinian Mysteries, including the Sanctuary of Demeter that dates back to the 14th century BCE.

The Eleusinian Mysteries cult arose out of the myth of the goddess Demeter , who lamented the loss of her daughter Persephone , abducted by Hades, god of the Underworld. According to the legend, Demeter went to Eleusis where she was reunited with Persephone. Since then, Demeter was venerated here as the Fertility Goddess to ensure bountiful harvests.

The Eleusinian Mysteries ( mystai ) were performed annually around September and October to honor the goddess Demeter for providing fertile crops. These religious rites included a procession from Athens to Eleusis, followed by ritual baths in the sea, three days of fasting, and mysterious (and still unknown) recitations.

Greece's largest modern port, Piraeus boasts more than 2,000 years of history. The fortified port was developed by Themistocles in the 5th century BCE as a commercial harbor for Athens (12 kilometers away).

Piraeus is still Athens' main commercial port and is one of the busiest seaports in the Mediterranean, as the departure point for ships sailing to Europe and the Near East. Travelers embarking on a tour around the Greek Islands will most likely begin at the Central Port in Piraeus, which is the starting point for ferry routes to all of the Aegean Islands.

Although many travelers quickly pass through Piraeus en-route to their next destination, the town does have some tourist appeal. The main attractions are the restaurants and shops at Zea Marina (Pasalimáni Harbor), the Archaeological Museum , the seafood taverns at the Mikrolimano fishing harbor , and the charming hilltop neighborhood of Kastella . During summertime, cultural events and performances are held at an outdoor theater in Kastella.

Amid the olive groves and vine-covered hills outside of Athens (45 kilometers away), this tranquil lake was formed by a dam constructed between 1926 and 1931 to create a reservoir of fresh water.

The reservoir, known as Lake Marathon, is 38 kilometers from Athens and is the city's main source of water supply. Bathing and boating are not allowed, but the area is ideal for taking nature walks, relaxing outdoors, or enjoying picnics on sunny days.

Lake Marathon is eight kilometers west of the Marathon village , on the road to the Church of Ayios Stéfanos . Marathon was celebrated in antiquity as the place where Theseus killed the bull of Marathon and the scene of the first great battle between the Greeks and Persians in 490 BCE.

About 218 kilometers from Athens and 10 kilometers from Sparta, in a striking location jutting from the slopes of the Taygetos mountain range, the ruins of medieval Mystras (Mistra) are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Called the "castle city," this captivating walled town provides a glimpse of life in the late Byzantine period (13th-15th centuries).

The best place to begin a tour is on the hilltop, where the remnants of a Byzantine fortress stand. This medieval castle was constructed in 1249 by Prince William of Villehardouin. From this vantage point, one can admire panoramic views of the countryside.

Other highlights include the Palace of Despots , a complex of (mainly Byzantine-era) buildings that overlook the Valley of Evrotas and the Plain of Sparta; the elegant and vibrantly adorned Pantánassa Monastery (still a working convent); and the more secluded Perívieptos Monastery with its intricate masonry work and delicate Byzantine fresco paintings.

Mystras also has several other Byzantine churches with exceptional frescoes that represent a flourishing of Byzantine religious art from the 13th to early 15th century.

The Archaeological Museum of Mystras presents an extensive collection of Byzantine paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and religious icons. Located in the courtyard of the Saint Demetrius Cathedral, the museum delights visitors with its peaceful setting and splendid views.

While in the area, tourists should visit the Archaeological Museum of Sparta (12 kilometers from Mystras), which displays objects found at nearby archaeological sites. The collection covers a wide range of time periods, from the Neolithic era through Classical antiquity until the late Roman period.

South of Sparta (30 kilometers away) is the village of Krokeés , which in ancient times was important for its quarries of Lapis Lacedaemonius, a dark green volcanic stone used to construct public baths.

Only 40 kilometers (about a one-hour drive) from the Athens city center, Mount Parnitha in Central Greece offers a wonderful escape to nature. This idyllic area attracts visitors who want to breathe in the fresh air and soak up the unspoiled scenery of refreshing pine forests.

To reach the Mount Parnitha National Park , drive from Athens' outlying suburb of Achárnes. The scenic road winds its way up to the mountain with numerous sharp bends. The highest mountain peak in Greece at 900 meters above sea level, Mount Parnitha has sensational hiking trails that traverse a densely wooded landscape.

A convenient base for those spending a few days exploring the National Park is the Mpafi Mountain Refuge . From this secluded spot, adventurous hikers can begin a climb to the summit of Mount Parnitha and then indulge in the refuge's homemade cuisine and rustic overnight accommodations.

More on Greece

Home » Travel Guides » Greece » 15 Best Day Trips from Athens

15 Best Day Trips from Athens

Athens is not only the national capital of Greece but also the cultural and spiritual one.

The stage for the many myths and legends that have emerged from Ancient Greece, it’s a hub of tourist activity, as well as world-class Greek cuisine.

The countryside surrounding Athens is no less spectacular, with temples and monasteries peppering the Mediterranean landscape and some unimaginably beautiful beaches and stretches of coast lining emerald and turquoise waters.

On day trips from the capital, you’ll be teleported back in time to the age of Gods and Goddesses and heroes that immortalised Greek mythology in the history books with a sense of adventure rarely found in other European countries.

Let’s have a look at the best day trips from Athens :

One of the most popular trips to take from Athens is the excursion to Delphi, and it’s easy to see why.

Considered by many as the crux of Ancient Greek history, Delphi is a UNESCO World Heritage marvel and is bursting at the seams with archaeological sites, each more captivating than the last.

The most famous of these is The Oracle of Delphi, which can be perfectly complemented by a trip to the Delphi Archaeological Museum.

Here, you’ll come across intriguing artefacts like the Sphinx of Naxos and learn about the area and its undeniable cultural significance.

For something a little different, swing by the town of Arachova on your way back to the capital – some say it’s like crossing a threshold into the Swiss Alps, so be prepared for a surprise.

Legend tells of the ancient Mycenaean civilization that was written about by Homer and other distinguished Greek authors, where archaeological objects date back to 7000 BC. If you’re prepared to undertake the 120 km journey from Athens to get there, you won’t be disappointed with what you find.

The “City of Agamemnon” is a hotbed of near-prehistoric sites and artefacts including the remains of palaces and fortress walls and most notably, the Tomb of Agamemnon.

Located in a hilly area of the Peloponnese, the grassy expanses of the Mediterranean countryside are also a marvel to behold.

If you have time, try not to miss the nearby sanctuary of Asklepios in Epidaurus.

Venture out to where the land meets the sea and where another ancient site lies, the city of Corinth.

The narrow stretch of land that connects mainland Greece to the Peloponnese offers unbeatable views of Corinth Canal impossible to find elsewhere.

Combine a tour of the fascinating ruins with a day by the sea, where after a morning of exploring you can take a refreshing dip in the Saronic Gulf.

4. Cape Sounio

What better place to have built the majestic Temple of Poseidon than in Cape Sounio, overlooking the Saronic Gulf? Take in the breathtaking views of the Athens Riviera and relish some incredible photo opportunities along the way before even arriving at your destination.

Once you reach the ancient worship site, you’ll have the chance to explore the monument dedicated to one of the most revered figures in Greek mythology as well as enjoy sweeping views of the Aegean Sea and the Saronic Gulf.

Make sure you set aside a couple of extra hours to relax afterwards as there’s a nearby beach where you can soak in the emerald waters of the Aegean.

5. Attic Riviera (Coast of Apollo)

If you’re after something a little different than temples and archaeological ruins then you can head to the Coast of Apollo, a pristinely beautiful stretch of coastline between Athens and Cape Sounion that has many attractions to offer other than the usual ancient sites.

Heading down the coast, you’ll find a vast array of golf courses, beautiful beaches and marinas filled with luxury yachts and sailing clubs.

Venture out to the sun-kissed expanses of the Riviera and indulge in some of the finer things in life.

For the record, if do happen to be seeking more archaeological adventures, the Coast of Apollo is also full of them.

A truly fantastical dreamscape, the mountains and boulders of Meteora offer some truly unbelievable and beautiful sights.

The captivating region is famed for its Byzantine-era monasteries that sit precariously atop rocky outcrops overlooking the hills of Thessaly.

Find out everything there is to know about why these monuments were built on the sandstone peaks and why their inhabitants chose to live their monastic lives there.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 14th Century is a must-see, only if you’re into history, but also as an architectural and cultural marvel.

7. Hydra Island

A perfectly picturesque escape from the capital comes in the form of exploring a beautifully rustic island a mere 2 hours away from Piraeus Port in Athens.

Hydra Island is popular among everyone from artists to travellers and food lovers and is well-known for allowing no cars or motorcycles of any kind.

As a result, it makes for an irresistibly pleasant day out exploring the cosmopolitan streets of rustic buildings built into the many hillsides.

Hydra Island has everything on offer from abandoned churches and secluded beaches, so get ready for a blissful day of wandering around finding your ideal activity.

8. The Monastery of Dafní

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Monastery of Dafní is an easy 10km away from the center of Athens and was originally a pagan shrine that was then converted into a Christian monastery and then to the present monastery in 1080.

The building is a must-see for its exquisitely ornate furnishings on the interior, which include 11th Century mosaics that grant it the reputation of being one of the most magnificent Byzantine churches in Greece.

9. Kaisariani Monastery

This 11th Century church is one of the most serene and tranquil places you can visit from Athens, not simply because of it’s beautiful courtyard with glittering spring water flowing from a rams head – but because of it’s truly stunning and peaceful surroundings.

The area known as Forest Park is littered with cypress trees, shrubs and Mediterranean flowers, making it an ideal place for reflection and clarity.

The park even has a botanical garden containing flora native to Greece, so once you’ve visited the monastery you can spend some time strolling amongst the many colours of Greece’s nature.

10. Lake Marathon

Nearby to the village of Marathon, famed for a number of historic occasions including the site of great battles between Greeks and Persians hundreds of years before Christ, lies the beautiful and peaceful Lake Marathon.

Formed by a dam used to create a reservoir, the lake cannot be swam or sailed in but the surrounding shores could not be more perfect as a place to enjoy an outdoor picnic or walk in.

The pine forests around the lake stretch for miles, so there’s no shortage of mini hikes you can take should the mood strike.

11. Mount Parnis

For a more endurance worthy hike, Mount Parnis offers an idyllic escape into the mountainscapes surrounding Athens that can be reached by road.

Soak in the pristine pine forest scenery as you ascend up many sharp turns and bends to reach the summit, or alternatively park at the mountain hut and begin the ascent by foot.

The beautiful hike will take you past the Chapel of Ayía Triáda where you can stop and explore before continuing the climb to the scenic peak.

12. Eleusis

For an insight into some clandestine history, there’s no better day trip than the infamous Eleusinian Mysteries, a series of secret religious sites that contain ancient sanctuaries dating back to 1400 BC. The mysteries themselves revolve around various rituals that were performed in honour of Greek deities and involved processions, ritual baths, fasting and to this day unknown incantations.

A must-see ruin is the Sanctuary of Demeter, one of the main protagonists in the story behind the inspiration of the buildings.

13. Attica Countryside

Otherwise simply known as the area surrounding the city of Athens, the Attica countryside is an expanse of land bursting with treasures both contemporary and ancient.

For archaeological wonders, head to the Temple of Artemis, renowned for its role in the life of religious Athenian women.

Each of these sites almost always caters to a specific religious group of people and this temple is particularly fascinating in its portrayal of their life and devotion to the Goddess of childbirth.

One for the wine lovers, Nemea is Athens’ very own wine country, boasting traditional methods that hark back to ancient times and give the wine a distinctive flavour.

As you might expect from wine country, the landscape is magnificent and beautifully Mediterranean.

On your visit, head over to a stadium where the Nemean Games were held centuries ago and have recently been re-established.

Visits to various wineries are also a must, though the one closest to the stadium is a tourist favourite and highly reputable.

15. The Temple of Apollo

One of the furthest trips you can take from Athens at a lengthy 300 km, lies an archaeological site.

The Temple of Apollo sits in an impossibly picturesque location on the shores of Lake Trichonis, some kilometres away from the town of Thermos.

The temple represents the devotion of the followers of the Sun God Apollo and is a testament to the architectural prowess of the builders at the time.

15 Best Day Trips from Athens:

• Cape Sounio
• Attic Riviera (Coast of Apollo)
• Hydra Island
• The Monastery of Dafní
• Kaisariani Monastery
• Lake Marathon
• Mount Parnis
• Attica Countryside
• The Temple of Apollo

4 Days in Athens: The Perfect Itinerary

Planning to spend four days in Athens? I have the perfect itinerary for you that will have you visiting the best of Athens and exploring Delphi. I visited Athens before heading out to spend a week in Crete and it was the perfect amount of time to visit Athens.

This full guide to Athens has the best places to stay, things to do, and the best side trips from Athens. With 3000 years of culture, delicious food, scenic views, and a vibrant city, Athens is well worth a stop when you visit Greece.

This post contains affiliate links , If you make a purchase through these links I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

Planning your trip to Athens ? Below are some places to stay, things to do, and more.

• Athens Street Food Tour (My favourite Athens activity!)
• Acropolis Combo Ticket (Skip the ticket line at 7 sites!)
• Acropolis and Parthenon Guided Walking Tour (Great for history buffs!)
• From Athens: Day Trip to Delphi and Arachova
• Athens: Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon Sunset Tour
• Athens: The Athenians Art Apartments (Fantastic aparthotel, highly recommend)
• Athens: Amalia Hotel (Breakfast included, great location!)
• Delphi: Pan Hotel (Great breakfast, very affordable)
• Delphi: Fedriades Delphi Hotel (Beautiful rooms)

Looking to rent a car to visit Delphi?   Click here to check  Athens rental car rates !

Is Athens Worth Visiting?

Athens is definitely worth visiting! My expectations for Athens were pretty low prior to visiting. Over the years I’ve read so many terrible reviews of the city: that it’s dirty, crowded, and not worth it. While visiting I found myself wondering why people say it’s a dirty city. It’s lived in, there’s street art, but these aren’t bad things. I found Athens had a lot of life. It was a pleasure to explore, the food is fantastic, and I loved being able to visit the Acropolis.

I definitely recommend Athens and I would visit again. I visited Athens and Crete and it was nice to be able to contrast the mainland with the islands.

When to Visit Athens?

I visited Athens at the end of May and found the weather to be perfect and the crowds quite manageable. I recommend visiting Athens in March to May or September to November to get warm sunny weather. From June to August in Athens you will have a lot more crowds at the Acropolis and unpleasantly hot weather. During the summer there is the risk of the Acropolis being closed due to heat.

How Many Days in Athens?

I would budget two full days in Athens to see the sights and two more days to explore around the city as day trips or side trips for four days total. I think four days in Athens is the perfect amount to see the city and nearby sights as well.

Where to Stay in Athens?

In Athens, I recommend staying around the Plaka, Syntagma, or Monastiraki neighbourhood. The Plaka is at the center of the historic area of Athens and is in easy walk to the main sights and lots of restaurants. The Syntagma neighbourhood is also very close walking distance to everything. It’s also near Syntagma Metro Station, which is a meeting spot for many tours and the metro line that connects the airport and ferry terminal. Monastiraki Square is an excellent place to stay as it is adjacent to the Plaka and has lots of nice streets to explore with many restaurant and hotel options. Whichever you choose, try to book early as hotels can get booked up and very expensive in peak times.

In Athens, I stayed at The Athenians Art Apartments and would happily stay again. The apartments are in an excellent location and are super comfortable and recently renovated.

Where to Eat in Athens?

Athens has a fantastic food scene. The first night there I joined a food tour , which was great for trying out many foods and getting an idea of how the city is and some history of their most famous foods. Other places I enjoyed in the city include: Vegan Beat – Delicious mushroom gyros and super affordable Athena’s Cook – Nice patio and delicious modern Greek style food Holy Llama – Vegan pastries, amazing croissants. Wish I could have tried more. Lukumades – Delicious Greek donuts served warm. My favourite is the pistachio. Baklavas – So many types of baklava here, chocolate, pistachio, walnut. All delicious.

4 Days in Athens Itinerary

This four-day itinerary for Athens is set up to maximize your time in the city and to nearby destinations. I flew into Athens from elsewhere in Europe so I didn’t have jetlag the first day of this trip. If you are getting off a trans-Atlantic flight, then the first day of this itinerary may feel a bit punishing.

I do recommend a rental car for the first two days of this itinerary. I booked with DiscoverCars and was very happy with the price and the ability to add insurance in advance. If you aren’t comfortable driving in Greece, there are day trip options to Delphi and Cape Sounion instead. For all your day trip options from Athens, check out my list of the best day trips from Athens .

Day 1: Hosios Loukas Monastery and Delphi

After arriving in Athens, pick up your rental car and drive towards Hosios Loukas Monastery . The monastery is a slight detour from Delphi but well worth it. The roads are well-maintained and easy to drive with rest stops with bathrooms and restaurants along the way.

Hosios Loukas Monastery is a 10th-century Byzantine UNESCO World Heritage Site. To visit, make sure you have shoulders covered and pants or a skirt that covers to your knees. Hosios Loukas is situated in a beautiful area with sweeping views of the mountains. I spent about 1.5 hours wandering around the different buildings. It was only 4 euros for entry to Hosios Loukas.

Scenic Drive to Delphi

After Hosios Loukas Monastery, continue towards Delphi . This was some of the most scenic driving I did in Greece. There are a couple of places you can pull over to take in the view of the mountains.

Explore Delphi and Enjoy Greek Food

I arrived for my visit to Delphi around 4 pm and even though it was enough time to visit the Delphi Ancient Site, I decided to spend the evening wandering Delphi’s shops and enjoying my first meal in Greece. Check in to your hotel and then explore Delphi. I stayed at Pan Hotel and loved how convenient and affordable it was and the included breakfast. Fedriades Delphi Hotel is another excellent pick. Whichever hotel you choose, try to get a room with a panoramic view of the mountains and sea so you can have a front-row seat to beautiful sunsets.

I highly recommend Taverna Vakhos for food. It was easily my favourite place to eat on this itinerary. It does fill up so it’s worth it to make a reservation. The restaurant has views of the Gulf of Corinth and has excellent service with a complimentary baklava dessert.

Day 2: Delphi, Cape Sounion, and Athens

Start your day early with breakfast at the hotel and then pack up the car and drive to park near the Archeological Museum of Delphi . While it is walking distance from Delphi, you will be thankful to not have to walk extra once it gets warmer and it is on the way out of town anyways. Make sure you arrive early, I got the last parking spot around 8:15 AM.

You can purchase tickets at the Delphi Archeological Site which includes entry to the museum as well. If you would rather skip the ticket line, you can also purchase your Delphi tickets in advance . There is also a fountain to the right of the ticket booth where you can refill water bottles. The Delphi Archeological Site is all uphill and there is very little shade so make sure you are prepared for a couple of hours.

Delphi Archeological Site

At the Delphi Archeological Site , there are plenty of signs to help you understand what you are seeing and its historical significance. Delphi is the site where the oracle spoke to Apollo and was believed by ancient Greeks to be the centre of the world. It was an important religious site in the 6th century BCE.

Because of its religious significance, as you walk through Delphi you will walk through the ruins of many monuments that were donated by ancient Greek leaders to curry favour with the gods. Some of the most prominent features are the Temple of Apollo, the theatre, and the stadium.

Walking the Delphi Archeological Site felt as significant as the Acropolis in Athens and you can certainly see why ancient Greeks felt this site nestled in Mount Parnassus is so special. For me, Delphi was a highlight of my time in Greece and is definitely worth adding to your itinerary, even if you can only visit on a day trip from Athens .

Archeological Museum of Delphi

After exploring the ruins, make a stop at the Archeological Museum of Delphi . It’s not a very large museum so it doesn’t take very long but there are some very important and interesting artifacts here. Perhaps the most famous are the Sphinx of Naxos, and the twins Cleobis and Biton.

Temple of Athena

If you have time, walk or drive down to the Temple of Athena , which has beautiful ruins of the Tholos of Delphi. Start your drive towards Athens, first stopping in the nearby town of Arachova to get some lunch. Arachova is a beautiful town and there is also a great lookout spot worth stopping just as you are leaving town.

Cape Sounion and Temple of POseidon

From Arachova, it’s almost a three-hour drive to Cape Sounion so you will arrive in the late afternoon. The Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion is famous for the 5th-century white marble temple that looks out over the Aegean Sea. During the summer it costs 10 euros for entry which feels a bit expensive considering Delphi including the museum is only 12.

You don’t need very long to explore the site, perhaps an hour. You could try to time it out to be there for sunset if you are okay with arriving in Athens quite late. If you are traveling without a car, a sunset tour to Cape Sounion is an excellent option.

Check-in To Athens Hotel

After Sounion, drop your car off at the airport and head into Athens. I found the metro was very convenient, especially because the hotel I booked was very close to Syntagma metro station , which is right on the metro line that serves both the airport and ferry terminal. I highly recommend The Athenians Art Apartments . The location is perfect for exploring Athens as everything was easy walking distance on foot. The rooms were newly renovated and had tons of space, a kitchenette, and were very comfortable and quiet.

Day 3: Acropolis, Ancient Agora, and Food Tour Tour

Today starts with a visit to Athen’s most famous site, the Acropolis ! I recommend buying your ticket in advance to skip the ticket line. Unfortunately, you still have to wait in the entry line to go through security. A combo ticket for the Acropolis is worth it as it allows you entry to six other sites over five days.

If you can, try to be at the Acropolis at 8 AM, right when it opens. I went up the Acropolis from the side entrance on the south side ( on the map here ) so I could walk past other interesting sights before seeing the Acropolis and exiting from the main entrance. I left the Acropolis around 10:30 AM and by then there were massive line-ups both at the ticket booth and at entry. Honestly, even by mid-morning it was starting to look and feel like a conveyer belt of people going through the Acropolis so getting here early really is worth it.

The Acropolis is completely exposed to the sun so make sure to be prepared. If you visit during a heat wave, the Acropolis may be temporarily closed if it’s around 40°C. There is a water fountain near the bathrooms here, and it’s the only place I saw for drinks on the Acropolis. I recommend packing tissues as well as the bathrooms were not stocked with toilet paper when I visited.

At the Acropolis, you first will go by the Theatre of Dionysus before walking up the stairs surrounded by columns through the Propylaia (ceremonial gateway) and next to the Temple of Athena Nike . The entrance to the Acropolis felt grand and was a highlight for me. Even though the Acropolis is ancient, there has been a lot of restoration happening and the restoration of the Temple of Athena Nike was completed in 2010. The Parthenon is the main temple that the Acropolis is known for and unfortunately, you can only view it from the outside. The Parthenon was heavily damaged during the 1687 Siege of the Acropolis by the Venetians. Even though it was restored, many collonades were put together wrongly so since 1975 restoration has been conducted here to put everything back in its rightful place. Having been around since 495-429 BCE, the Parthenon has been through a lot.

After exploring all the sites on the Acropolis head down. You can go up Areopagus Hill next to the exit to get views of the Acropolis as well.

Ancient Agora

Head towards the Ancient Agora . If you bought a combo ticket then entry is included. I had a terrible time finding the entry for it as it looks like there is an entry close to the Acropolis but when I visited, it was closed off. Google Maps is not your friend here as it tries to take you on walking paths that are fenced off. Entry is off of Adrianoy Street and when choosing walking directions, avoid green walking paths that are in the fenced-in Ancient Agora site.

There is much to explore at the Ancient Agora including the Temple of Hephaestus and Stoa of Attalos . If you visited the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, you might note a similar style with the Temple of Hephaestus as both are thought to be designed by the same architect. The Stoa of Attalos contains a small museum containing Athenian artifacts as well. One of my favourite parts of the Stoa of Attalos was going to the top floor to get a view over the Agora.

You can easily spend an hour or two exploring the Ancient Agora as there are many ruins and monuments scattered around the site.

Athens Food Tour

After a busy morning exploring Athens, grab some lunch, Vegan Beat has yummy mushroom gyros, and relax at the hotel before joining a food tour .

I went on an Athens street food tour that left from nearby Syntagma Square. The tour was fantastic. There were vegetarian and meat options at every stop and it was a great way to learn about Athens while tasting some of the food Greece is known for like spanokopitas, Greek pizza, loukoumades (Greek donuts!), and of course, gyros. Every stop had great food and it was a great way to get to try a variety of foods, including things I’d never heard of before like mastica ice cream. It was honestly the highlight of Athens for me and I have a full guide to the Athens food tour here .

Day 4: Exploring Athens

On your second full day in Athens, it’s the perfect time to explore the city with no time pressures.

Athens Spice and Food Markets

I started the day by exploring the spice markets of Evripidou Street as well as the central market. It’s an interesting area to explore even if you aren’t buying anything. The spice markets truly sell everything you could think of and it had me wishing I had more luggage space. It’s a good spot to find mastic if you want to take pure mastic home. I was able to purchase cinnamon sticks and licorice root at the spice markets. There are also shops that sell every kind of cured meat and olives.

In the Central Market, you have to be prepared for the open butchering of meat. A walk-through here will have you witness to many men with giant cleavers prepping meat for sale.

I followed it up by getting different baklavas at Baklavas , which has excellent baklava and is very close to Syntagma Square.

National Gardens

After lunch, walk through the National Gardens next to Syntagma Square. The gardens have lots of nice features to explore including the Byzantine chapel. Zappeion Hall is at one end of the gardens and is right next to an alley of jacaranda trees that look beautiful during late spring when they are covered in purple flowers. There are also some parrot nests in the pine trees that house some very noisy parakeets.

Temple of Olympian Zeus and Panathenaic Stadium

Walk to the nearby Temple of Olympian Zeus , which is included with the Acropolis combo ticket . It’s a quick site to explore but has a historic temple and great views of the Acropolis. A 10-minute walk down the hill from the Temple of Olympian Zeus is Panathenaic Stadium . This is the site of the first modern Olympic Games. You can get a good view of the stadium from outside or pay the 10 euros entry to tour the stadium. I skipped entering the stadium because I wanted to get out of the sun but if you do visit, you will be in the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble.

Acropolis Museum and Plaka

After visiting the stadium, walk by Hadrian’s Arch towards the Acropolis Museum . I didn’t tour the museum as I was feeling a bit ancient-Greeced out but if you are a history buff then it’s a good time for a visit. Unfortunately, the museum isn’t included with any of the Acropolis ticket combos so you do have to pay extra.

Explore the Plaka neighbourhood and grab some dinner. The Plaka is the neighbourhood that is at the base of the Acropolis and it has very charming tiny streets to explore. Many streets are pedestrian-only and have lovely flowers and cute restaurants. It can get very crowded here, however. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs, I especially loved the olive wood shop that sold everything from cutting boards to utensils and decorations.

Watch the Sunset with Views of the Acropolis

Just as the sun was starting to set I went up Philopappos Hill to get some views of the Acropolis at sunset. While there are amazing views, it’s unsafe to be there after dark and muggings have been reported. The path is also not lit up and quite uneven so it would be difficult to do in the dark. I recommend visiting it before dark though because the 360° views of Athens are stunning.

Areopagus Hill is the perfect place to get views of the Acropolis at sunset, although it is very popular and can be crowded. The sun doesn’t set behind the Acropolis but you will get nice views of the Acropolis lighting up at night.

Athens in Four Days Itinerary

I was very happy with spending four days in Athens. I had debated about leaving it out because of hearing so many bad things about Athens but I’m so happy I didn’t. Between the side trip to Delphi, Acropolis, and being a great city to wander around, Athens makes the perfect place to visit before or after a trip to the Greek Islands.

Like this post? Pin it for later!

Similar Posts

Kvernufoss, Iceland: Finding the Hidden Waterfall

21 Best Cities in France to Visit that Aren’t Paris

The Best Road Trip Itinerary for Slovenia’s Alps

Day Trip to Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls, Bosnia

Planning an Itinerary to Ireland Without a Rental Car

Spending Two Days in Cartagena Colombia: Caribbean Walled City

One comment.

Extremely accurate… 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

The 16 best things to do in Athens

Explore the city and beyond with the best attractions and day trips

With so much history crammed into one crowded, chaotic city, it’s hard to know where to start sightseeing in Athens. If you’re into antiquities, you could spend a week wandering among the ruins clustered around the Acropolis.

But Athens is no historical theme park, and there are plenty of other things to do. Contemporary culture is everywhere, from the politically charged street art that’s become the modern city’s trademark to specialist museums, street markets, and open-air festivals that reflect the city’s increasingly multicultural population. Athens wears its long history lightly — you’ll even find locals sunbathing beside an ancient temple on one of the city’s many golden beaches. 

For further  Athens inspiration, see our guides to the city's best  hotels ,  restaurants  and  nightlife .

Explore ancient Athens above and below ground

When it opened a decade ago, the Acropolis Museum was controversial. Not only because it reinvigorated the campaign to return the Elgin Marbles, but also for its unabashedly modern architecture. Now this fantastically interactive museum is as much a part of the city’s cultural landscape as the Acropolis itself. Start at the top floor Parthenon Gallery, where the temple frieze is brilliantly displayed, and work your way down.

Insider tip: Explore the streets, courtyards and mansions where Athenians lived thousands of years ago at the ancient settlement excavated below the museum. 

Contact:  theacropolismuseum.gr Nearest metro: Acropolis Prices: £

Hit the heights of Greek civilisation

Obviously, you can’t visit Athens without visiting the Acropolis. No matter how many times you’ve paid homage to this wonder of the ancient world, the sheer majesty of the setting, artistry of the architecture, and palpable sense of humanity’s quest for eternity will give you goosebumps. Just make sure you don’t go at midday —all that dazzling white marble reflects the sun.

Insider tip:  Use the side entrance on Dionysiou Areopagitou street, rather than the main entrance below the Propylaea. The queue for tickets is shorter, and the gentle climb up to the temple takes you past the ancient amphitheatres of Dionysus and Herod Atticus.

Contact: odysseus.culture.gr Nearest metro: Acropolis Prices: ££ 

Run around an Olympic Stadium

Built on the site of an ancient arena, the horseshoe-shaped Panathenaic Stadium was paved entirely in marble by the wealthy Athenian benefactor, Herodes Atticus, in 140 AD. It has hosted everything from naked athletics to gladiators, the first modern Olympics, and even occasional rock concerts. For an unforgettable work-out, the running track inside the stadium is open to joggers from 7.30am to 9am.

Insider tip: On the second Sunday in November, the stadium is the thrilling finishing line of the Athens Marathon. It’s free to enter to cheer on the runners on that day. 

Contact: panathenaicstadium.gr Nearest metro: 15-minute walk from Acropolis, Syntagma or Evangelismos Prices: £ 

Take a crash course in Greek culture

Time travel through several centuries in a single day on Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, the Museum Mile of Athens. From Orthodox iconography at the Byzantine and Christian Museum to prehistoric sculpture juxtaposed with contemporary art at the Museum of Cycladic Art and 20th-century Greek painting and folk art at the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture, it’s the perfect Athens first-timers’ primer. 

Insider tip: Strolling through the sculpture gardens of the Byzantine and Christian Museum, it’s easy to imagine how the peripatetic philosophy students, who wandered the hallowed grounds of Aristotle’s Lyceum next door, were inspired by their surroundings. 

Contact: byzantinemuseum.gr ; cycladic.gr ; benaki.org ,  thisisathens.org/antiquities/aristotles-lyceum Nearest metro: Evangelismos or Syntagma Prices: £

Learn the who's who of Greece's good and great

Unlike Père Lachaise or Highgate, the First Cemetery of Athens is completely off the tourist radar. This serene, open-air sculpture garden is a who’s who of Greece’s good and great, their graves marked with extravagant mausolea or melancholy marble angels. The flower-lined paths are shaded with cypress and bitter orange trees, whose blossoms perfume the cemetery in spring. 

Insider tip: There’s no map of the cemetery and the tombstones follow an arcane numbering system. If you’re looking for a particular grave, check this helpful blog , which also has entertaining potted biographies of the most prominent people buried here. 

Contact: thisisathens.org Nearest metro: 15-minute walk from Acropolis or Syggrou-Fix Prices: Free 

Strike gold at the National Archaeological Museum

Many Greeks will tell you that the collection at the National Archaeological Museum is superior to that of the Acropolis Museum. The curation may be old-fashioned, but the richness of the exhibits is truly outstanding. You could spend days ogling the toned statues, delicate jewellery, and intriguing household items from antiquity in this neoclassical landmark. The enchanting sculpture garden is a secret oasis from the urban hustle.

Insider tip: If you’re staying in Athens for more than a day or two, buy a three-day ticket that’s also valid for the underrated Epigraphic Museum, Numismatic Museum and Byzantine and Christian Museum. 

Contact: namuseum.gr Nearest metro: Omonia or Victoria Prices: £ 

Discover the culinary secrets of Plaka

It’s hard to eat well in Plaka, the touristy old town of Athens. Ignore the taverna touts hawking frozen moussaka and sign up for a food tour with Culinary Backstreets. Their in-the-know guides know where to find the creamiest yogurt, juiciest souvlaki, and sweetest baklava. Along the way, they’ll point out the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman traces evident in the local architecture and culture. 

Insider tip: Do not under any circumstances eat breakfast before you go; there’s a lot to taste during this five and a half-hour walking tour.

Contact: culinarybackstreets.com Nearest metro: Syntagma or Monastiraki Prices: ££ 

Shop like a local at your neighbourhood market

Every Athenian neighbourhood has its weekly laiki agora (people’s market), a local ritual that’s as much street theatre as a celebration of seasonal food. One of the liveliest markets is on Kallidromiou Street in Exarchia. On Saturday morning, locals of all ages and stripes pick through heaps of fragrant fruits and vegetables and bat away the cheeky banter of the stallholders. 

Insider tip: Pick up cheese and crackers from Ellinika Kaloudia (00 30 210 330 0384; Facebook page ) and climb up Mount Lycabettus for a picnic. Or join the local writers and actors catching up over ouzo-mezze at Mouria (87 Charilaou Trikoupi & Kallidromiou; 00 30 210 381 2607), a retro kafenio (coffee shop).

Address: Kallidromiou Street Opening times: Sat, 8am-3pm Nearest metro: 15-minute walk from Panepistimio or Omonia Prices:  £

Watch a movie in the moonlight

From May to October, Athenian life moves outdoors — including the cinemas. There are over 60 open-air movie theatres all over Athens: hidden on rooftops, squeezed between apartment buildings, in parks, even by the seaside. Some, like Cine Paris and Thision, even have the Acropolis as a backdrop. 

Insider tip: Venture beyond the city centre to Oasis (00 30 724 4015) in Pangrati or Zefyros (00 30 210 346 2677) in Petralona, two cult summer cinemas that screen vintage classics. 

Contact: cineparis.gr ; cine-thisio.gr Opening times: There are two screenings every night; the first starts around 9pm and the late show is at 11pm Prices:  £

Watch the sunset by the sea

The clunkily named Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre is a masterclass in green design and public space. Surrounding the shiny national opera house and library, there’s kayaking on the canal, bikes for hire, petanque and playgrounds, free concerts and festivals. Go at dusk to watch the sunset over the Athens Riviera from the Lighthouse, a glass-walled lookout perched on the green roof.  

Insider tip: If you want to explore more of coastal Athens, which has everything from Blue Flag bays to beach clubs, marinas, mineral lakes and ancient temples, sign up for an Athens Riviera tour with Alternative Athens.

Contact: snfcc.org Nearest metro: None, but there is a free shuttle bus to and from Syntagma and Syggrou-Fix metro station several times a day Prices: Free (apart from performances at the Greek National Opera)

Browse a blockbuster collection of modern art

The late shipping tycoon Basil and his wife Elise Goulandris were friends and benefactors of some of the greatest artists of the 20th century. Highlights of their formidable collection (estimated value: $3 billion) were periodically shown on their namesake museum on the island of Andros, until the works found a permanent home in Athens in 2019. The purpose-built B&E Goulandris Foundation Museum includes masterpieces by Picasso, Kandinsky, Miró, Pollock, Bacon, and pretty much every other 20th century artist you can name.  The couple were also fans of the Impressionists and acquired many works by Van Gogh, Cezanne, Monet, and Degas. Another floor is devoted to Greek artists including Ghika, Tsarouchis, Moralis, and Tetsis — an excellent primer for those less familiar with Greece’s modern art scene. 

Contact:   goulandris.gr Nearest metro:  Evangelismos, then 10-15 min walk Prices:  ££

Mingle with the Athenian art crowd

The former brewery in which the National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST) is housed stood empty for decades. It took almost as long for Greece’s first proper contemporary art institution to get off the ground, but it has finally come into its own.  The focus is on 21st century art from Greece, Southern Europe, and the Eastern Mediterranean, with socio-politically engaged group shows, solo exhibitions, and a lively programme of talks, screenings, and events.  The recent donation of 140 large-scale installations from the D. Daskalopoulos Collection will add real clout to the museum’s evolving permanent collection.

Contact:  emst.gr Nearest metro:  Syggrou-Fix Prices:  £

Drive to a nearby beach

In summer, escape the city heat to swim and sunbathe. Head for the Athens Coast, running from the port of Piraeus to Cape Sounio – 64km of spectacular views over the blue Saronic Gulf, with 13 sandy beaches carrying a 'Blue Flag' for high environmental standards. One of the nicest is Vouliagmeni, in a sheltered bay equipped with sun beds, parasols and snack bars.

Insider tip: In summer, Athens' beaches get extremely crowded with locals, especially at weekends, causing traffic jams and tail-backs along the coastal road. Avoid the masses by coming during the week, when most people are at work or school.

Contact: vouliagmeni-akti.gr Price:  It varies from beach to beach - some are free but charge for sun beds; others charge for entry. Vouliagmeni, for example, charges (£8.50; Mon-Sun, May to Oct) or €5 entry (£4.20; Mon-Sun, Oct to April). 

Watch the sunset at an ancient temple

Built as a place of worship to Poseidon, the god of the sea, earthquakes and horses, the fifth-century-BC Temple of Poseidon stands on the southernmost point of the Attica peninsula in Cape Sounion. Originally made up of 34 white marble Doric columns, 15 of which remain, it commands amazing views over the Aegean Sea, which are particularly spectacular at sunset.

Insider tip: The coastal road from Athens to Sounio passes through the seaside suburbs of Glyfada, Vouliagmeni and Varkiza, and affords fine views over the Saronic Gulf – you could combine a day at the beach with an early-evening visit to Sounio.

Contact: 00 30 229 203 9363 Opening times: Daily, 9am-sunset Price: £

Visit an ancient pilgrimage site

Greece's most beautiful classical site, Delphi, was the home of the fabled Oracle which spoke its prophesies (with the help of trance-inducing leaves) through priestesses. Dating back beyond the eighth century BC, the hillside site, which is two-and-a-half hours from Athens, is scattered with ancient temples overlooking a gaping chasm, and is backed by Mt Parnassos. There’s also an excellent museum displaying bronze and marble sculptures.

Insider tip: On the road back to Athens is the mountain village of Arahova (about seven miles away). It's an upmarket winter resort and a great place to stop for a late lunch and shop for fluffy flokati rugs and locally produced formaela cheese.

Opening times: Daily, 8am-8pm summer; 8am-3pm winter Price: ££

Go island hopping for the day

Despite having a spectacular coastline nearby, most wealthy Athenians prefer to escape to the islands in summer. The nearest islands, Aegina and Angistri, lie in the Argo-Saronic Gulf and can be done as a day trip. Both have lovely sand and pebble beaches, giving onto sparling clean sea, and plenty of tavernas serving locally caught fresh fish. The fastest way is with  Hellenic Seaways ' 'flying dolphins' (catamarans): Pireaus to Aegina takes 40 minutes; Pireaus to Angistri is 55 minutes. They run several times a day year-round.

Insider tip: Ferries, hydrofoils and catamarans from Athens' port Piraeus to the islands get very busy on summer weekends, as do the islands themselves (booking in advance is recommended). To avoid the crowds, do this as a weekday trip.

Contact: visitgreece.gr Opening times: Daily, 24 hours Price: ££-£££

How we choose

Every attraction and activity in this curated list has been tried and tested by our destination expert, to provide you with their insider perspective. We cover a range of budgets and styles, from world-class museums to family-friendly theme parks – to best suit every type of traveller. We update this list regularly to keep up with the latest openings and provide up to date recommendations.

The best hotels in Athens

Gatsby Athens

9 Telegraph expert rating

One&Only Aesthesis

• Facebook Icon
• WhatsApp Icon

Visit Athens with the ultimate Athens Trip Planner

Things to do in Athens Athens Travel Guide Athens Itineraries

One of the oldest cities in the world, Athens is famous around the world for its ancient culture and historical ruins. From the Acropolis to the Temple of Poseidon, there are a lot of historical buildings to explore in the city. However, that's not all, Athens also features vibrant nightlife and several gorgeous beaches, making it the perfect vacation spot for different types of travelers. In this Athens trip planner, we bring to you some of the best Athens itineraries along with essential information such as the best time to visit Athens, how to get around the city, where to stay, and more.

Best Time To Visit Athens

Athens receives a good amount of sunshine throughout the year but if you wish to enjoy a pleasant, warm climate then the months of March to May and September to November will be perfect for you. Moreover, during these months, there are few tourists around plus you can get amazing deals on the flight and hotel prices at this time.

Winter months can be frigid in Athens with temperatures ranging between 9 and 12 degrees Celsius. At the same time, this is a great time for budget travelers as the prices are at an all-time low and there won't be any crowd at this time.Read more about the the best time to visit Athens .

Athens Itineraries

Depending on how long you're in Athens for - whether it's just a day or 5 days, we have the perfect itineraries crafted for you. Go through these Athens itineraries and plan your stay well in advance!

If this is your first time traveling to Athens, you could use some help planning your daily itineraries. Apart from the basic planning (flight tickets, visa, accommodation in Athens, etc.), you'll need to consider your day-to-day activities in Athens - where to go, what to see, how to get there, and more. But fret not, for we are here to help.

1-Day Athens Itinerary

The Syntagma Square

Lycabettus Hill

Museum of Cycladic Art

Temple of Olympian Zeus

The Acropolis

The Agora of Athens

Monastiraki Flea Market

National Archaelogical Museum

Explore Athens by Night

Read In Detail: A Comprehensive 1-Day Athens Itinerary

3-Day Athens Itinerary

Acropolis Museum

Cycladic Museum of Art

Read In Detail: A Comprehensive 3-Day Athens Itinerary

Athens Travel Restrictions

Given the current situation across the globe, it is important to read up on the travel restrictions. As of now, Greece has has partial restrictions in place, and it is important to keep that in mind before traveling to this country. Find out about the new rules and reopening of attractions on the blog post below.

Hacks To Buying Cheap Athens Flight Tickets

Now that you've figured out the perfect time to visit Athens and braved through the restrictions, it is time to look for flight tickets. Go through our 17 golden hacks for cheap flight tickets before scouring through the flight ticket websites. You'll be surprised how easy it is to save a pretty penny while booking flight tickets!

Do I Need Travel Insurance?

Traveling involves a certain amount of uncertainty always. With the pandemic, this amount has only increased. Opting for travel insurance is not something many people have done (pre-pandemic), but post-pandemic, it is highly recommended that you opt for it. Choosing the right travel insurance plan gives you a safety net to prevent losses if things go downhill.

Travel insurance can be complex- how do you know what to choose? For this very reason, we can crafted a ultimate guide to choose travel insurance post-covid .

Packing For Athens

When you are packing for Athens, it is important to consider the places that you are visiting and the month when you would be visiting the city. Pack smart and light and don't forget the essentials such as a universal adaptor, a raincoat, a photo ID, a good pair of shoes, and so on. If you are going to be visiting churches and formal places, then do dress up soberly and pack casual shorts and t-shirts as well. In churches, keep your knees and shoulders covered. Also, do check the official website of the attractions for any additional dressing requirements when you are packing for the trip. Avoid wearing high heels when visiting a monument as they are banned since they can destroy the ancient sites.

Travel Packing Checklist

Where to stay in athens.

One of the most important things to figure out when you are planning a trip to Athens is where will you stay. Athens has several neighborhoods which can make the choosing process a little difficult for travelers.

If you are visiting Athens for the first time, then Plaka, Syntagma, Psirri, Koukaki, etc. are good places to stay. They are close to the sightseeing attractions and feature several cafes and restaurants.

For those who want to party and enjoy the nightlife of Athens, Psirri and Monastiraki are the perfect places for staying in the city. Psirri is the nightlife hub with plenty of cafes, clubs, and bars. Monastiraki, on the other hand, offers several sidewalk cafes where tourists can chill and enjoy good food.

If you are visiting Athens with your family, then choose neighborhoods like Syntagma, Plaka, or Monastiraki. These are walkable distance to the main sights and restaurants and offer easy transportation access.

Finally, if you are on a budget trip, then you can find accommodation in Gazi. It has an amazing selection of budget hotels and you are within 20 minutes of walking distance from most of the attractions.

Getting Around In Athens

When you are planning a trip to Athens, your first question might be how can you travel around the city. Thankfully, Athens has an affordable and safe public transportation network that covers most parts of the city and suburbs.

A great thing is that you can use the same ticket for different modes of transportation for 90 minutes at a time. There are several transportation options to choose from including taxis, metros, buses, trains, and trams.

Buses and trolleybuses have an extensive network in the city and run every day from 5 AM to midnight. Metros are the quickest way to travel around the city and the lines connect the metro to the tram, buses, and the suburban railway.

For those in a hurry, taxis are a good choice as they follow the meter system in Athens. So, you will only be charged for the kilometers you traveled.

There are other modes of transportation such as trains, trams, etc. that aren't as extensively connected but are good for reaching certain destinations.

5 Best Day Trips From Athens

Planning a trip to Greece is a monumental effort; the country has amazing destinations that appeal to travelers of all kinds. History buffs, wine connoisseurs, architecture aficionados, and culture vultures; everyone can pick and choose their favourite destinations in Spain. Athens is at the heart of all these experiences, and merely a day away from it are incredible destinations that offer a variety of experiences.

Check out our list of the best day trips from Athens :

Ready To Head Out To Athens?

Check out the top things to do in Athens & our comprehensive Athens Travel Guide packed with itineraries, tours, culture trips, best hotels, restaurants and a lot more.

Here are a few more guides that should help you plan your visit.

FAQs: Athens Trip Planner

Is athens are good vacation destination.

Athens is one of the most popular vacation spots for history buffs and beach lovers. There are lots of things to do in the city such as exploring historical ruins, visiting museums, relaxing on the beaches, partying in the nightclubs, and so on. 

What is the best time to visit Athens?

The best time to visit Athens is from March to May and September to November when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists in the city.

How do I get around in Athens?

There are multiple options available for travelling around Athens including buses, metros, trams, taxis, and suburban railways. 

What should I pack for Athens?

Make sure to pack a universal adaptor, a raincoat, and your camera when visiting Athens. 

Is there any dress code in Athens?

Not really, but do dress modestly and keep your knees and shoulders covered when visiting the churches in Athens. 

What are the best things to do in Athens?

The best things to do in Athens are spending time on the beaches, learning the history of ancient Greece, exploring the historical ruins, visiting the museums, and so on. 

Which places can you visit from Athens on a day trip?

There are many day trips possible from Athens such as Piraeus, Aegina, Corinth, Mycenae, etc. 

Where should I stay in Athens?

For first-time visitors, Plaka and Syntagma are the best places to stay in Athens while Gazi is a great place to stay for those who are on a budget trip. 

Is public transportation safe in Athens?

Yes, public transportation is both safe and affordable in Athens. 

What are the best attractions to visit in Athens?

The best attractions to visit in Athens are The Acropolis, Temple of Poseidon, Ancient Agora of Athens, The Temple of Olympian Zeus, and so on. 

See more Athens. Save more money.

Flat 5% off your next experience with Headout when you use promo code 5OUT

EXPLORE NOW

Amulya Chintaluri

Amulya's love for travelling was a natural consequence of her moving around so much as a child. Throw in her love for writing into the mix, and there's no better way to spend her time. A person who collects hobbies like Infinity Stones, she loves reading, sketching, drawing, painting, dry pressing flowers, music, cooking, eating cake, watching TV and sleeping.

Be a smart traveler

The first to know about trending destinations, travel deals, tips and all things travel.

5-Day Athens Itinerary

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

• Athens in 5 days
• 1-Day Athens Itinerary
• 2-Day Athens Itinerary
• 3-Day Athens Itinerary
• 4-Day Athens Itinerary

Table of contents

Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: center of town, day 3: off the beaten path, day 4: proximity is everything, day 5: keep it simple, acropolis of athens.

Roman Forum of Athens (Roman Agora)

Acropolis museum, theatre of dionysus, odeon of herodes atticus, where to eat, to kati allo, platanos taverna, strofi athenian restaurant.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Athens National Garden

Benaki museum, syntagma square, temple of olympian zeus, hadrian's arch, zappeion hall, gb roof garden, babaji indian food, 7 food sins | gastro pub, aglio, olio & peperoncino.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Panathenaic Stadium

Basil & elise goulandris foundation, byzantine and christian museum, museum of cycladic art, αττικα πολυκαταστηματα α.ε., mavro provato of press café, paella barcelona.

All travel reservations in 1 place

Never dig through your emails again — access all your flights, lodging, and any reservations in 1 place.

Ancient Agora of Athens

Thision open air cinema, temple of hephaestus, museum of illusions athens, areopagus hill, a little taste of home restaurant, kotili καφέ - μεζεδοπωλείο, ctc urban gastronomy.

Perfect for road trips

See time and distance between places, and optimize your route to get the most of your day.

National Archaeological Museum

Hellenic motor museum, central athens "varvakios" markets, national historical museum, numismatic museum of athens, mount lycabettus, orizontes lycabettus, krinos (est.1923), smak ζυμερία.

Collaborate with friends in real time

Plan along with your friends with live syncing and collaborative editing.

Top searches in Athens

Popular road trips from athens, what's the weather like in athens.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Athens for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Athens in January
• Weather in Athens in February
• Weather in Athens in March
• Weather in Athens in April
• Weather in Athens in May
• Weather in Athens in June
• Weather in Athens in July
• Weather in Athens in August
• Weather in Athens in September
• Weather in Athens in October
• Weather in Athens in November
• Weather in Athens in December

All road trips from Athens

• Athens to Rome drive
• Athens to Paris drive
• Athens to Istanbul drive
• Athens to Budapest drive
• Athens to Prague drive
• Athens to Berlin drive
• Athens to Vienna drive
• Athens to Amsterdam drive
• Athens to Florence drive
• Athens to Naples drive
• Athens to Venice drive
• Athens to Milan drive
• Athens to Dubrovnik drive
• Athens to Munich drive
• Athens to Mykonos Town drive
• Athens to Copenhagen drive
• Athens to Krakow drive
• Athens to Heraklion drive
• Athens to Rethymnon drive
• Athens to Brussels drive
• Athens to Turin drive
• Athens to Selcuk drive
• Athens to Chania Town drive
• Athens to Thessaloniki drive
• Athens to Palermo drive
• Athens to Delphi drive
• Athens to Antalya drive
• Athens to Lindos drive
• Athens to Nafplio drive
• Athens to Warsaw drive

Explore nearby places

• Agios Dimitrios
• Agios Ioannis Rentis
• Agia Varvara
• Agioi Anargyroi
• Paleo Faliro
• Nea Filadelfia

All related maps of Athens

• Map of Athens
• Map of Tavros
• Map of Kallithea
• Map of Dafni
• Map of Nea Smirni
• Map of Vyronas
• Map of Kessariani
• Map of Kaisariani
• Map of Ymittos
• Map of Zografou
• Map of Egaleo
• Map of Peristeri
• Map of Agios Dimitrios
• Map of Moschato
• Map of Galatsi
• Map of Agios Ioannis Rentis
• Map of Agia Varvara
• Map of Ilioupoli
• Map of Agioi Anargyroi
• Map of Paleo Faliro
• Map of Korydallos
• Map of Nea Filadelfia
• Map of Chaidari
• Map of Ilion
• Map of Alimos
• Map of Nikaia
• Map of Cholargos
• Map of Piraeus
• Map of Filothei
• Map of Nea Ionia
• Map of Petroupoli

Athens throughout the year

• Athens in January
• Athens in February
• Athens in March
• Athens in April
• Athens in May
• Athens in June
• Athens in July
• Athens in August
• Athens in September
• Athens in October
• Athens in November
• Athens in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Athens?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 5-Day Piraeus Itinerary
• 5-Day Paleo Faliro Itinerary
• 5-Day Kallithea Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

Real Greek Experiences

Greek Culture, Travel Information, Itineraries, Life in Greece

10 Best Day Trips From Athens Greece In 2024

If you are looking for day trips from Athens Greece, you’ll be spoiled for choice! You can easily visit Ancient Delphi, Cape Sounion, Mycenae, Epidaurus, Nafplion, Hydra and other Greek islands in the Saronic Gulf, and many more destinations.

Day tours from Athens

Day trips from Athens offer visitors the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful places in Greece. Although the Greek capital can keep you occupied for days, it’s definitely worth venturing out to see a different side of the country.

There are plenty of amazing destinations close to Athens. Depending on what you are interested in, you can explore archaeological ruins, find out more about ancient Greek history, enjoy the beautiful diverse landscapes, or go sailing and swimming!

I’m an Athenian, and have been living in Athens for several decades. While I love my city, I also like leaving the city behind, and enjoying a day out – preferably somewhere by the coast!

So, let’s have a look at some of the most popular places to visit near the Greek capital! You can visit them independently, or on an organized tour, where you won’t have to worry about transportation and any other logistics.

I recommend: GetYourGuide for booking tours in Greece .

1. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ancient Delphi

Ancient Delphi is one of the most popular full-day trips from Athens. The incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site is located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, in the region called Fokida, about three hours north-west of Athens.

In the ancient times, Delphi was one of the most important archaeological sites in mainland Greece, and was known as the navel of the world. This is where the Greek God Apollo, the God of Light, Sun and Music, was worshiped.

Ancient Delphi was also home to the famous Oracle Pythia, the high priestess who could predict the future. People came from all around the ancient world to consult her and take decisions accordingly.

Today, Delphi remains one of the most fascinating ancient sites in Greece. Visitors can see the remains of various buildings, such as the ancient temples of Apollo and Athena, the ancient theater and the large stadium. Many people comment on the site’s special energy – and whether you agree or not, the landscape is truly spectacular.

Here is some more information about Ancient Delphi . Also, have a look at this article about the famous Delphic Maxims , which were carved on the ancient ruins around the site.

How to visit Ancient Delphi and the Delphi Archaeological Museum

Many visitors take an organized full day tour to Ancient Delphi. There are several options, such as this guided tour of Ancient Delphi and the museum , which also includes a stop at the picturesque Arachova village. 

You can also visit Ancient Delphi independently, either by public bus , or by hired car. If you are thinking to drive, read this article about driving in Greece first.

You can book your rental car here: Discover Cars .

Allow at least three to four hours for your visit, as there’s a lot to see in Delphi. Very importantly, don’t miss the ancient stadium! It’s located at the highest point of the site, and it offers the best views of Mt Parnassus and the wider area of Delphi. The climb is totally worth it!

2. The temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion

The iconic temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion is a popular half day tour from Athens. It was built in 444-440 BC to honor Poseidon, the God of the Sea in Greek mythology, and it’s been very well preserved.

Cape Sounio is located about 70 kms (43.5 miles) south of the Athens city center. The winding coastal road that leads to the ancient site is a scenic route, known as the Athens Riviera. It stretches from the port of Piraeus to Cape Sounion and the nearby coastal town of Lavrion. 

The ancient temple of Poseidon is perched on a rocky headland right at the tip of Cape Sounion. It overlooks the Aegean Sea, and offers some amazing sunset views to the lucky visitors. 

Here is some more information: The Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion .

Take a tour to the Temple of Poseidon

There are three ways to visit the majestic Temple of Poseidon: on a tour, by public bus, or drive yourself.

There are all sorts of organized tours to Cape Sounion. Usually, these do not include a guided tour inside the archaeological site, but they take away the pressure of driving on the narrow coastal road to Sounion.

Here is a highly rated option: Organized half-day tour to Cape Sounion

There’s also a hop-on hop-off bus tour to the archaeological site, which gives you access to these buses for two full days: Hop-on hop-off bus to Cape Sounion

Visit Sounion temple independently

Another idea if you are happy to drive on winding roads, is to hire a car and drive to the temple yourself. This way, you can plan your day without being on anyone’s schedule, and you can also extend this half day trip into a full-day activity.

So, before getting to the temple of Poseidon, you can go to a nearby beach, and maybe even have a picnic lunch. Or you can visit Lake Vouliagmeni , where you can swim year-round.

You can book your rental vehicle here: Discover Cars .

Finally, there are also public buses to Cape Sounion. They depart from Pedion tou Areos, in central Athens, and the journey can take about 1.5-2 hours, depending on traffic.

You might be able to find an updated bus schedule in the official KTEL bus website , which, unfortunately, is very badly maintained. Overall, if you are on a tight schedule, it’s probably best to avoid the buses as they aren’t all too frequent.

3. Day cruise along the Athens Riviera

The coastal route called the Athens Riviera is lovely, but can be challenging to drive on.

Another option if you want to see the Athenian Riviera is to take a boat tour. This is a relaxed day where you’ll get to enjoy the sea and sun, without really leaving the Greek capital!

Here are a couple of sailing tours from Athens:

• Catamaran sailing tour with meals and drinks
• Sunset sailing cruise along the Athenian Riviera

Or, if you want to combine a sailing trip with a visit to the Temple of Poseidon, check out this small group tour: Sailing tour to the Temple of Poseidon . 

4. Sanctuary and ancient theater of Epidaurus

Ancient Epidaurus is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Greece. It is located in the Peloponnese, a large region in southern Greece, approximately two hours away from Athens.

This magnificent ancient site was the sanctuary of Asclepius, the Greek God of healing and medicine. The Ancient Greeks traveled here from far and wide in order to be cured of their ailments.

The most impressive monument here is the ancient theater of Epidaurus, which was built in the 4th century BC and is known for its superb acoustics. There is also a small museum where you can read some really interesting information about ancient sanctuaries and ancient healing practices.

For more information, have a look at this guide to  Ancient Epidaurus .

How to visit Epidaurus and the Ancient Theatre

You can easily visit Ancient Epidaurus on your own. There are a few public buses per day connecting Athens and Ancient Epidaurus. However, a rental car  will offer more freedom, as you will be able to travel in your own time.

Another way to visit Ancient Epidaurus is on an  organized day trip from Athens , with or without a tour guide. Most of these trips stop briefly at the Corinth Canal close to Ancient Corinth, and also take you to Ancient Mycenae and Nafplion, which are nearby. It’s a full day, but you will get to see a lot.

Tip: Every summer, several performances take place at the ancient theater of Epidaurus. If you get the chance, you should definitely try to see a performance and experience the amazing acoustics! Here is the official website , where you can find information and book your tickets.

5. The archaeological site and museum at Ancient Mycenae

Another easy day tour from Athens is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ancient Mycenae in the Peloponnese. It would only take about an hour and a half to drive there from Athens, and Ancient Epidaurus is only 45 minutes away.

Mycenae is where the ancient Mycenaean civilization flourished in the early 2nd millennium BC. The site is best known for its imposing fortifications and the ancient beehive tombs where kings were buried, known as tholos tombs.

The most iconic monument here is the famous Lion’s Gate, a massive entrance gate with two lions carved into it. It dates from around 1,250 BC, which is several centuries before the Acropolis of Athens was built!

Here is some more information: Guide to  Ancient Mycenae .

How to visit Ancient Mycenae and the museum

Ancient Mycenae is an easy Athens day trip. If you want to visit independently, the best option is to hire a car . This way, you will have more freedom, and you will be able to visit other nearby archaeological wonders like Ancient Tiryns or Argos, which often fly under the radar.

It’s also possible to use the public buses from Athens to Mycenae. You will arrive at a small village called Fichti , which is about 4 kms from the ancient site. From there, you would need to take a taxi – unless you are happy to walk. For bus routes from Athens to Mycenae click here .

As mentioned earlier, you can also take an  organized tour , where you will also visit Ancient Epidaurus and the historic town of Nafplion. Guided tours are the best option if you don’t want to drive, and you will see some of the highlights of the Peloponnese.

6. The coastal town of Nafplion

Another popular excursion from Athens is the quaint coastal town of Nafplion. It is located in the Peloponnese, a couple of hours away from Athens.

Nafplio was the first capital of modern Greece, following the Greek Revolution in 1821 . It is a beautiful old town with quaint architecture, an impressive Venetian fortress, Palamidi castle, and a picturesque harbor.

There are also a few nice coastal walks around Nafplion, as well as a few beaches, where you will see people swimming year-round! All in all, it’s a lovely town to spend a few days, if you have time.

Here is some more information, including places to visit around Nafplion if you are staying longer: What to do in Nafplion Greece

How to get to Nafplion

If you want to only visit Nafplio, without visiting the ancient sites of Mycenae and Epidaurus, it’s probably easier to take the public bus , as there are several buses per day.

Alternatively, you can hire a car , which you will need to park at the designated parking areas just outside the historic center of the town.

Or you can always take the organized coach trip from Athens, combined with Epidaurus and Mycenae. Here is how to book the Nafplion – Mycenae – Epidaurus day trip .

7. The majestic Meteora monasteries

Another popular day excursion from Athens is to the majestic Meteora monasteries. The iconic UNESCO Site is located in the region called Thessaly, about 4.5 hours away from Athens by car.

The area is known for its unique rock formations and the stunning Greek Orthodox monasteries, which have been perched on top of the rocks for many centuries. These monasteries were built by monks who were looking to escape from earthly troubles and sought spiritual salvation.

There are six active monasteries today, where monks and nuns still live. They are all open to visitors, and they offer a unique insight into the history of monasticism in Greece.

The nearest town is Kalambaka, where you will have a wide choice of tavernas and cafes. There are also a few fantastic museums that are worth visiting, such as the Mushroom Museum and the Greek Education Museum.

Here is some more information about the amazing Meteora Monasteries .

How to get to Meteora from Athens

If you want to visit Meteora on a day trip from Athens, the best way is to go on an organized tour, as it’s a long drive from the Greek capital. However, if you can spend an extra day at Meteora, it’s totally worth it, as there is a lot to see.

Here are three highly rated Meteora tours:

• Day trip to Meteora from Athens
• Two-day trip to Meteora from Athens , with overnight in Kalambaka
• Two-day tour from Athens including Meteora and Ancient Delphi , with overnight in Kalambaka

If you have several days, you could also hire a car and drive there yourself, and explore more of Thessaly. You can book your rental car here: Discover Cars .

8. The cosmopolitan Greek island of Hydra

The Greek island of Hydra is another popular Athens day trip. The island is located in the Saronic Gulf, just a couple of hours away from Athens by ferry from Piraeus .

Hydra is one of the most picturesque Greek islands close to Athens, with narrow cobblestone streets, pretty architecture and a cosmopolitan feel. It’s also a car-free island, which makes it ideal for families and people who want to escape the city for a day.

Fun trivia: In 1957, the movie “Boy on a dolphin” was filmed in Hydra, as well as a few more places in Greece. It was one of the first movies about Greece , and it definitely helped to put Greece on the tourist map!

How to visit Hydra on a day trip from Athens

You can reach Hydra island by ferry from Piraeus port in Athens, and go on a walking tour on your own. There are many ferries per day, and the number of itineraries increases during peak season.

You can check routes and book your ferry tickets here: Ferryscanner .

Another option is to take a full day sailing trip to Hydra , which also stops at two more islands, Aegina and Poros. With this mini-cruise, you will experience three islands close to Athens, without having to think about the logistics.

9. The low-key Greek island of Agistri

Agistri is another island close to Athens. Like Hydra, it’s located in the Saronic Gulf, and it’s only an hour away on the ferry from Piraeus port in Athens. This makes it a good choice if you are looking for Athens excursions to nearby islands.

This low-key island is ideal for travelers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature. There are a few really stunning beaches, which you can easily reach on foot, by public bus or by bicycle.

I’ve been to over 60 of the Greek islands, and I still remember how beautiful the beaches were in Agistri. Given its proximity to Athens, it’s an ideal destination if you want to spend some beach time!

How to visit Agistri from Athens

You can easily reach Agistri by ferry from the port of Piraeus. There are several ferries per day, taking only an hour to reach the small island, so you only have to select the time that suits you the most.

Book your ferry tickets here: Ferryscanner .

Another option is to take a sailing cruise that also stops at Aegina island, and also takes you to Moni, an tiny uninhabited island with more gorgeous beaches! 

You can book it here: Sailing cruise from Athens to Aegina and Agistri

Tip: If you have a choice, try to avoid the weekends, as this is when many Athenians also go to Agistri and Aegina. It’s best to go on a weekday instead.

10. A day out to Marathon and Ancient Ramnous

Few visitors venture out of Athens to see the sites of Marathon and Ancient Ramnous, which are about an hour and a half’s drive from the Greek capital. Which is a shame, as this region is quite unspoiled and you won’t see too many tourists!

Marathon is a small village with a fascinating background. This is where the Battle of Marathon, between the Persians and the Ancient Greeks, took place back in 490 BC. It is one of the most important battles in ancient Greek history, as the Greeks won, although they were greatly outnumbered by the Persians.

The Athens Marathon Race is organized every November as a tribute to the legendary ancient Greek messenger Pheidippides, who brought the victorious news all the way to ancient Athens. Visitors can learn more about the race, and see old medals and rare exhibits, in the Marathon Run Museum. The Marathon Archaeological Museum is also nearby.

If you are in the area, you should also visit the ancient city of Ramnous, an incredible archaeological site where you can see fascinating ruins of several ancient houses. Make sure to bring water and perhaps a couple of snacks, as there’s nothing nearby!

How to visit Marathon and Ancient Ramnous from Athens

The easiest way to visit Marathon and Ramnous is by rental car . Driving along the Marathon route is quite easy and you can take a break at the unspoiled, wild Schinias beach .

On your way back to Athens, you can stop at the coastal area called Nea Makri for a snack or dinner. This is a popular destination for Athenians during summer, and there’s a nice coastal promenade where you can walk, with plenty of traditional restaurants to choose from.

FAQ about Athens day trips

Here are a few questions readers have asked me in the past:

Where should I go on a day trip from Athens?

Some of the best day trips out of Athens include Ancient Delphi, Nafplion, Ancient Epidaurus, Ancient Mycenae, the temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, the Meteora monasteries, and the Saronic islands.

Can Santorini be a day trip from Athens?

In theory, you could visit Santorini on a day trip from Athens. Flights from Athens to Santorini (and vice versa) only take 50 minutes each way. It’s better, however, to allow for more time on Santorini.

Is a day trip to Delphi worth it?

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Delphi is one of the most interesting archaeological sites in Greece. It’s absolutely worth a day trip from Athens. 

What is the prettiest town in Greece?

Some of the prettiest towns in Greece include Nafplio, Chania, Rethymno, Rhodes town, Symi, Naxos town, Ioannina, Kavala and Thessaloniki.

How many days is enough in Athens?

If you only want to see the main sights in Athens, such as the Acropolis and the Acropolis museum, even a couple of days are enough. But if you want to fully experience the city, you should aim to spend much longer.

Have a look at these guides about Athens:

• How to spend 2 days in Athens and Greece
• A 3-day itinerary for Athens
• Best things to do in Athens
• Hottest Greek islands in October

Which island is easiest to get to from Athens?

The easiest islands to get to from Athens include Aegina, Agistri, Hydra and Poros. Several ferries depart from Piraeus port on a daily basis to all of these islands. You can book your ferry tickets on Ferryscanner .

Also, have a look at this article about islands close to Athens .

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

13 Things To Do In Athens: Complete Guide To Greece's Ancient City

F or a deep exploration of Greek history and culture, a visit to the historic city of Athens is in order. One of the oldest cities in the world, Greece's capital city dates back to around 3000 BC when its first settlement was established on the legendary rock of the Acropolis.

Named after Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war, Athens is undoubtedly the historical hub of Greece. Widely considered the birthplace of democracy for its voting and election system, ancient Athenians progressed in far more than just politics. The city’s intellectual and artistic prowess gave rise to phenomenal art, literature, and classical architecture, as well as many influential philosophers like Plato and Socrates. There are so many things to do here in Athens, Greece.

Today, the bustling European city is a tourist haven. Athens offers myriad fun things to do , from exploring its famous archeological landmarks to tucking into hearty plates of delicious Greek cuisine.

UPDATE: 2023/06/09 16:23 EST BY NOAH STAATS

There Are More Things To Do In Athens, Greece!

This post has been refreshed with new spots to see in Athens, as well as tips for a successful Greek vacation. Whether someone wants to experience an ancient monument, climb a mountain, or simply stroll through the city's garden, Athens offers guests a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. Have fun, and bring some sunscreen!

Things To Do

From its historical ruins to its incredible museums, Athens is brimming with must-see adventures. Here are some of the top attractions for new visitors .

Discover The Ancient Parthenon

One of the first monuments to witness while in Athens is the Parthenon. Here, tourists can explore a former temple on the Athenian Acropolis, Greece, dedicated to the goddess Athena during the fifth century BC.

Of course, coming to the Parthenon is quintessential Greece, as its rich history and stunning structure bring people from around the globe.

There are also decorative sculptures here, often considered some of the high points of classical Greek art. Remember to bring comfortable shoes, water, and even a snack: it gets hot, and the hike up to Parthenon can be gruesome.

• The Parthenon in Athens is considered one of the top destinations.
• Bring comfortable footwear, water, and snacks, and be respectful of the ancient structure.

Experience Nature At Athens National Garden

One of the most beautiful things to do in Athens, Greece, is walk through the National Garden. Here, visitors to the city can 7,000 trees, 40,000 bushes, and other plants, making up 519 species and varieties.

The Athens National Garden is a public park of 15.5 hectares in the center of the Greek capital, located directly behind the Greek Parliament.

• Athens National Garden is free to visitors.

Climb Mount Lycabettus

For people wanting some exercise while in Athens, heading to Mount Lycabettus might be worth it. Here, visitors to the ancient city can experience the highest point in Central Athens, at a staggering 277 meters above the sea.

Mount Lycabettus has a rich history, according to myths : the mountain was formed when the goddess Athena was carrying a huge stone from the Pallene peninsula to the spot of the Acropolis, but she dropped it when the raven told her bad news.

• At 277 meters (909 feet), it's a bit less than twice as high as the Acropolis.

That was the birth of Mount Lycabettus and is why it is located smack-dab in the middle of town. It's also double the height of the Acropolis, so the elevation is steep, and the photo-ops are incredible.

Related: Mykonos In 3 Days: How To Plan A Weekend In Greece's Hottest Summer Spot

Tour The Acropolis

One of the most iconic Greek ruins is that of the ancient city of the Acropolis. Originally a Mycenaean palace, the citadel features many striking sites, including the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, the Propylaea, and the Temple of Athena Nike.

Situated on the slopes of the Acropolis are two ancient theaters: the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the Theater of Dionysus. Head northwest of the Acropolis to find the Areopagus, or the Rock of Ares, which served as the meeting place for the early aristocratic council. Be sure not to miss a thing by booking a guided tour of the famed ruins.

• Address: Athens 105 58, Greece
• Hours: Open daily from 8 am to 8 pm (April to October); 8 am to 5 pm (November to March)
• Cost: From €49 (about $53 USD) for a guided tour with skip-the-line-entry; check the website for complete tour options and availability

Stroll Through Plaka

For less touristy things to do in Athens , stroll the charming streets of Plaka. Nestled under the Acropolis, it's one of the city's oldest neighborhoods and is a shining example of Athens' neoclassical architecture.

• This is a less "touristy" thing to do in Athens. Many people prefer lying low when in the city, as it allows for a more true Grecian vacation.

Walk the main streets of Kydathineon and Adrianou to explore the various souvenir, antique, and jewelry shops. Tour the colorful buildings and ancient churches, and stop at a local café for a relaxing afternoon spent immersed in Greek culture.

See The Ancient Agora Of Athens

Located to the northwest of the Acropolis, the ancient archeological site was the city's social and political hub. Founded in 1957, the Ancient Agora Museum, which features a variety of ceramics, jewelry, and other items found during excavations, and the Temple of Hephaestus are must-see tourist attractions.

• Address: Adrianoy 24, Athina 105 55, Greece
• Hours: Open daily from 8 am to 8 pm
• Cost: €10 (just under $11 USD) general admission

Visit The Panathenaic Stadium

In 1896, this cultural masterpiece was home to the first modern Olympic Games . The only marble stadium in the world, visitors have the opportunity to tour the grounds and even run on the playing field.

• Address: Leof. Vasileos Konstantinou, Athina 116 35, Greece
• Hours: Open daily from 8 am to 7 pm (March to October); 8 am to 5 pm (November to February)

Tour The National Archaeological Museum

Explore the museum's grand collection of Greek Antiquity artifacts, from the gold Mask of Agamemnon to the incredible marble statue of Poseidon​​​​​.

• Address: 28is Oktovriou 44, Athina 106 82, Greece
• Hours: Tuesdays from 1 pm to 8 pm; Wednesdays to Mondays from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm (November 1 to March 31); Tuesdays from 1 pm to 8 pm; Wednesdays from 8 am to 8 pm (April 1 to October 31)
• Cost: €12 (April 1 to October 31) €6 (November 1 to March 31)

Explore The Benaki Museum

Tourists can also take a deep dive through Greek history with a stop at this museum, which houses more than 100,000 ancient artifacts. The Benaki Museum is one of seven cultural venues that can be found throughout the city.

Other museums include the new Benaki Museum, or Pireos 138, the Museum of Islamic Art, the Ghika Gallery, and the Toy Museum.

• Address: Koumpari 1, Athina 106 74, Greece
• Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm; Thursday from 10 am to midnight; Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm
• Cost: €12 (about $13 USD) general admission

Tour The Museum Of Cycladic Art

Athens has more to offer visitors than just the Acropolis . After a day spend exploring the iconic ruins, behold the mesmerizing collection of Cycladic art artifacts, from marble figurines and vases to ancient weapons.

• Address: Neofitou Douka 4, Athina 106 74, Greece
• Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm; Thursday from 10 am to 8 pm; Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm
• Cost: €12 (about $13 USD) general admission (pricing for temporary exhibitions is €6 for general admission)

Journey To The Temple Of Olympian Zeus

This ancient Greek temple stands an impressive 68 feet tall. Located southeast of the Acropolis, visitors can marvel at the iconic architecture, which was, remarkably, twice the size of the Parthenon.

• Address: Athens 105 57, Greece
• Hours: Open daily from 8 am to 3 pm

See The Philopappos Monument

Another must-see historical landmark is the Greek mausoleum of the Philopappos Monument. Situated atop the Mouseion Hill to the southwest of the Acropolis, the monument was built to pay homage to Athens' benefactor Julius Antiochus Philopappos.

• Address: Athens 117 41, Greece
• Hours: Open 24 hours

Visit The Acropolis Museum

Located on the south side of the Acropolis, this museum houses some of the most important findings from the famed historical site, from Parthenon sculptures to the sacred Caryatids, which held up the roof of the Erechtheion's southern porch.

• Address: Dionysiou Areopagitou 15, Athina 117 42, Greece
• Hours: Monday from 9 am to 5 pm; Tuesday through Saturday from 9 am to 8 pm; Friday from 9 am to 10 pm (April 1 to October 31)
• Cost: €15 general admission during the summer; €10 general admission during the winter

The museum is open during the winter months (November 1 to March 31) Monday through Thursday from 9 am to 5 pm, Friday from 9 am to 10 pm, and weekends from 9 am to 8 pm.

Best Time To See Athens

There are many reasons to visit Greece in the spring . Namely, visitors can beat the peak season rush since the vast majority of tourist flock to the country during the summer months.

Athens is no different, and globetrotters opting to visit during the spring and the winter may also be able to take advantage of cheaper prices for accommodations.

Best Ways To Get Around Athens

Tourists looking to explore the historic city can opt to walk. The vast majority of points of interest can be traversed in less than 30 minutes on foot. There are also a variety of hop-on, hop-off buses that can take tourists from point A to point B.

Another reliable mode of transportation is Athens' subway, tram, and trolley system , which serves the city and its suburbs.

Where To Eat In Athens, Greece

Athens has plenty of eateries to offer hungry travelers.

Picky Coffee & Brunch

• Address: Χριστοκοπίδου 14 &, Ναυάρχου Αποστόλη, Athina 105 54, Greece
• Cuisine: Specialty coffee and brunch eatery with many breakfast options

Happy Blender

• Address: Ifestou 39, Athina 105 55, Greece
• Cuisine: Healthy, fresh smoothies and bowls
• Address: Άγγελου, Geronta 9, Athina 105 58, Greece
• Cuisine: Mediterranean café and bistro

Atitamos (Ατίταμος)

• Address: Kapodistriou 2, Athina 106 83, Greece
• Cuisine: Traditional Greek dishes
• Address: Adrianoy 9, Athina 105 55, Greece
• Cuisine: Greek restaurant featuring an art gallery and a rooftop bar

Aleria Restaurant

• Address: Meg. Alexandrou 57, Athina 104 35, Greece
• Cuisine: Contemporary Mediterranean fare

The Clumsies

• Address: Praxitelous 30, Athina 105 61, Greece

42 Barstronomy Athens

• Address: Kolokotroni 3, Athina 105 62, Greece

Related: Discover The Best Of Greece: 10 Top-Rated Day Trips From Athens

Where To Stay In Athens, Greece

Find the perfect spot to stay, no matter the budget.

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

Pella Inn Hostel

• Address: 104 Ermou & 1 Karaiskaki, Athens 105 51
• Amenities: Bar/lounge and laundry facilities

Victory Inn

• Address: Trias 20, Athens
• Amenities: Bar/lounge, room service, and coffee shop

Mid-Tier Hotels

Athens Marriott Hotel

• Address: Syngrou Avenue 385, Athens 175 64
• Amenities: Outdoor pool, restaurant, room service, coffee shop, fitness center, bar/lounge, and free parking

Grand Hyatt Athens

• Address: 115, Syngrou Avenue, Athens 117 45
• Amenities: Outdoor/indoor pool, spa and wellness center, restaurant, room service, fitness center, and bar/lounge

Upscale Hotels

King George, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens

• Address: 3 Vasileos Georgiou A' Street, Athens
• Amenities: Fitness center, bar/lounge, parking, restaurant, room service, and laundry service

Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens

• Address: 1 Vasileos Georgiou A' Str., Athens 105 64
• Amenities: Outdoor/indoor pool, spa and wellness center, restaurant, room service, coffee shop, fitness center, bar/lounge, and valet parking

Related: Visiting Athens? Here's Where To Stay In This Ancient City

Tips For Visiting Athens

There are a few things tourists need to know in order to curate the most enjoyable Athens adventure. For starters, the roads can be a tad bit hectic, so be extremely cautious when walking along or crossing busy streets.

Greek meal times are generally later than in other parts of Europe. For tourists looking for a lively restaurant ambiance, locals typically eat lunch around 2 pm, and the main meal of the day, dinner, is enjoyed at around 9 pm or later.

Last but not least, follow proper bathroom etiquette and don't flush toilet paper, which can clog the older sewage systems.

Related: Athens: How A Goddess Victory Created Greece's Popular City

How To Spend The Perfect Day In Athens, Greece

Due to the sheer size of the city and all the amazing historical sites to see, visitors should plan to spend a minimum of three days in the Greek capital. However, for the perfect 24-hour romp around Athens, there are a handful of postcard-worthy attractions that are must-sees.

But first: breakfast. Visitors can eat like the locals, opting for a traditional Greek breakfast of bread, fresh fruit, and yogurt at a nearby eatery. Afterward, exploring the great Acropolis is the first "to-do" on the itinerary, so opt for a guided tour of the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Acropolis Museum.

Spend the day seeing the iconic ruins and surrounding attractions, such as the Erechtheion, the Propylaia, and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus.

Related: Athens To Santorini: 10 Things To See Along The Way

For lunch, grab a delicious bite to eat at the Pantheon Restaurant. Then, check out the Temple of Hephaestus and the Ancient Agora of Athens nearby. A stroll through the Plaka neighborhood is in order before touring the Benaki Museum and the National Garden Botanical Museum (a two-minute walk apart).

For dinner, snag a table at Kuzina for a traditional Greek meal before heading to the rooftop bar to grab a drink and enjoy breathtaking views of the city.

Q: What is worth visiting in Athens?

Athens offers many fun things to do , from exploring its famous archaeological landmarks to tucking into hearty plates of delicious Greek cuisine.

Q: What is Athens, Greece known for?

Widely regarded as the birthplace of democracy, Athens is probably most known for its iconic Acropolis .

Q: How many days do you need in Athens?

Due to all the amazing historical sites and top attractions to see for new visitors , tourists should plan to spend a minimum of three days in Athens.

Adventures of Alice

14 Delightful Day Trips from Athens, Greece

Sharing is caring!

There are so many great things to do in Athens. That is undeniable. On my trip there, I stayed for 5 days and that could easily have spanned into 7 days or more with all the day trips from Athens that I wanted to include. 

You see, even though this incredibly historic European city is often used as a short stop-off on the way to the picture-perfect Greek islands, there’s a lot more going for it than simply the Acropolis.

If you’re interested in Greek history and exploring the culture of the country itself, a few excursions to Athens’ beautiful surroundings are 100% worth it. 

My favourite Travel resources for Athens

✅ Here’s t he  hotel we stayed at  during our time there. ✅ Top Athens da y trips : The City of Delphi , the Hydra and Poros islands ✅ To see more of Athens, I highly recommend hiring a car .

What are the best day trips from Athens?

If you’re considering one of the many Athens day trips on offer, you’re in the right place. From history to island hopping, Greece is a wonderful European travel destination with a little something for everyone.

Taking some trips deeper into the country will only make you love it more. So, here are the 14 best day trips from Athens.

This charming little Peloponnese coastal town was once the capital of the modern State of Greece. A popular wedding spot, it’s now often called the most romantic place in the country and for very good reason. 

Think cobbled streets, cute stores, family-owned restaurants, a beautiful secluded bay, harbourfront views, and a delightful Archeological museum. It’s only a two-hour drive from Athens, and such a hidden gem , but you can easily spend a full day here.

This was an amazing day trip from Athens we did and I loved every second in Nafplio. We hired a car and drove there. Considering the Greek drive on the opposite side of the road to what we’re used to, it wasn’t a bad drive.

We parked at the harbour and walked across the town to the castle first, passing some beautiful gardens and yummy-smelling restaurants on the way. From there, we explored some of the pretty pebbled coves.

It was literally empty, so would’ve been perfect if you wanted a place to escape the crowds for a bit. Mind you, it was a bit chilly but it was October !

Next, we simply wandered the streets. It’s an Instagrammers paradise and I managed to get some great pictures of the town. We stopped for food at a delightful little taverna where we had some of the most delicious food I’d had during my stay in Greece.

I was quite sad when it was time to drive back. If I could, I would’ve definitely spent longer in Nafplio. It’s hand down my favourite of these day trips from Athens.

✅ I recommend this company for affordable car hire in Athens

This is probably one of the best day tours from Athens for history fans. Well, it’s a close tie with Mycenae, but we’ll get to that!

Delphi is a town on Mount Parnassus and the site of the 4th century B.C. Temple of Apollo, once home to an ancient oracle. The formerly sacred place was lost for a millennium before being rediscovered in 1897.

There are two main sites to visit. The Tholos (circular building pictured above), was built around 390 BC and the Sanctuary of Apollo (pictured below) was built half a mile from its counterpart. 

According to ancient myth, the God Zeus released two eagles, one from the east, and the other from the west. They flew in opposite directions and met at the future site of Delphi. This was then considered by ancient Greeks to be the centre of the world.

It’s pretty easy to get from Athens to Delphi, however, when we went to visit Delphi, we went via a small group tour . Our guide was super knowledgeable about the site – he was able to fill us in on all this history and more.

On par with the Acropolis of Athens for historical importance, the UNESCO World Heritage site combines magnificent mountain views with its importance in Greek mythology. Delphi is easily one of the high points of a visit to Greece . 

✅ I recommend this guided tour to Delphi

3. Corinth Canal

Located in south-central Greece, Corinth marks the place where the land meets the sea. The town is considered the gateway to the Peloponnese Peninsula. It’s also a perfect example of where the ancient meets the modern. 

Once one of the largest and wealthiest city-states in Greece, Corinth has two major parts: one on the Corinthian Gulf and one on the Saronic Gulf. Today, you’ll find the pretty coastal city sitting alongside the site of Ancient Corinth, the hill of Acrocorinth and the stunning canal. 

One of the closer day trips from Athens, Corinth is only an hour’s drive west of the city. A lot of tours include a trip to Corinth.

But, once again, we decided to drive because those tours didn’t cover everything that we wanted to see. A lot of them just make a small photo stop at the canal.

If you’d rather not drive, this tour is by far the best .

We stopped at the Corinth Canal first. It’s still the town’s top attraction and was finished in 1893. This involved an excavation up to 80 meters in depth to create the 6.3 kilometres-long, 23-meter-wide canal. It was honestly a pretty impressive sight!

✅ I recommend this guided tour to Corinth

4. Historical Sites of Corinth

After we’d explored the canal, we headed up into the mountains to visit Ancient Corinth. A vast historical site, we were there for well over an hour wandering around the ruins of the formally impressive city and the Temple of Apollo.

The archaeological museum is also next to the site, and worth a visit to learn even more about the history.

After that, we drove up a thin, very winding path up a mountain to Acrocorinth, which translates as ‘Upper Corinth’. Despite it being a bit of a nail-biting journey, the castle at the top was well worth it.

The views across the city went on for miles and we learned how Acrocorinth was fortified in ancient times. Through multiple time periods, its walls are now almost 2 kilometres in length.

The path that leads to the highest point, to the former Temple of Aphrodite, has the best views. But, be warned, it’s not the easiest on your legs!

Tip: Ancient Corinth isn’t usually part of the guided tours, so if you want to visit it’s much easier to hire a car and head there yourself. You can hire a car here .

5. Arachova

Tucked away in the mountains, Arachova is a town like no other. Also commonly included on a tour stop – this is how we saw it – it’s well worth a full day trip because it’s truly beautiful and the views are equally as gorgeous.

Located on the way to Delphi, nestled delicately at the foot of Mount Parnassós, it’s one of the few places in Greece that are suitable for skiing.

Because it’s located so high in the mountains, the snow creates some wonderful slopes perfect as a wintery escape for ski lovers.

Of course, it’s also suitable for people on a day trip from Athens who wish to relax or go hiking in a dreamy mountainous setting. As well as skiing, simply walking around the town can provide a delightful escape from the city centre.

The streets are hilly and winding, looping around the small shops, boutique hotels and slopeside houses.

Athens locals come here on weekend breaks to escape the city for a while. Enjoy hot snacks and fruity drinks in cafés, or traditional kafeneia (coffee shops), or enjoy the surprisingly vibrant nightlife after dark.

6. Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion can be found about 70 km southeast of Athens, on the southernmost tip of the Attica peninsula. The Temple of Poseidon there is its most popular attraction. Many tour operators run both daytime and sunset trips there .

Legend has it that this is the site where Aegeus, King of Athens, fell into the sea because he believed he had lost his son. The Athenians later named the sea after him and, even today, it is known as the Aegean Sea.

Considered one of the must-do day trips from Athens, Cape Sounion is famous both for its historical significance, remains that date from as early as the 8th century BC, and for its beautiful sunset.

The sunset is the main reason that the tours operate at dusk. The views across the Aegean are breathtaking! If sunset views are one of the things you look for in a Greek getaway, you won’t want to miss this.

✅ I recommend this tour to Cape Sounion

Nature lovers, history fans, photographers or anyone who loves a one-of-a-kind view will adore Meteora. The World Heritage Site is one of the most impressive regions of Greece and even one of the most beautiful towns in Europe.

Studies show that the staggered rocks were first formed 60 million years ago. They have been battered into their current shape by both weather and earthquakes. Perched on top of those dramatic rocks are the monasteries.

Built thousands of years ago they have remained untouched to this day. The rocks are a wonderful symbol of Greece’s past. Consequently, Meteora attracts thousands of tourists, many of whom are on Athens day tours, every year.

Of the 25 monasteries that were originally built, only 6 are still operational and open for the public to visit. The largest – the Grand (Megalo) Monastery – has unique architecture and breathtaking views of the valley below.

As well as monasteries, you can also visit Meteora for hiking, rock climbing and some stunning photo opportunities.

The best way to reach Meteora from Athens is by train. You could also book one of the day tours from Athens. However, unlike the other tours where you are picked up from your hotel, many of these involve you getting a train too as it’s simply the easiest way to get there.

The tour guide will then pick you up from the train station at the other end.

✅ I recommend this one-day tour from Athens to Meteora

In the northeast of the Peloponnese, Mycenae is located around 120 kilometres southwest of Athens. It’s one of the most important and well-known UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the region and is located close to Nafplio town.

There are once again plenty of tours from Athens , but we visited Mycenae by car before driving on to Nafplion. 

Dating back to the Late Bronze Era, this was the town of the legendary King Agamemnon. He was the leader of the Greeks during the Trojan War.

According to myth, the huge surrounding walls were constructed by Cyclops. The area was centred around the military and hence was the setting for many Greek tragedies, especially ones regarding the King and his family.

Walk around the ancient site of Mycenae, you’ll find a small museum and several impressive tombs. The most photographed attractions of the area are the Lion Gate (above) and the Treasury of Atreus.

The site is also located on a hilltop with some pretty views of the surrounding countryside.

✅ I recommend this small group tour of Mycenae

9. Lake Marathon

For a step away from ancient history and back to nature, a trip to Lake Marathon is relaxing and the perfect spot to unwind. People frequently make day trips from Athens to the lake to escape the bustling city life. It’s ideal if you have an extended stay in the city. 

About an hour’s drive from Athens, Marathon is a water supply reservoir embedded in a beautiful mountainous area. The Dam was constructed in the 1930s and served as Athens’ main water source for decades.

Nowadays, the most popular thing to do at Lake Marathon is simply to go for a relaxing walk and drink in the gorgeous views. The lake is a mile across, so, plenty of walkways have been constructed so people can enjoy the lake from all angles.

It’s also a great spot for bird-watching with hawks, owls and water birds to spot. Be sure to bring your binoculars! 

As well as the lake, you can also find an archaeological site in Marathon and a museum. Both are worth checking out if you also enjoy a little history. There are boardwalks, cosy cafes and restaurants, making it the perfect way to spend a day.

10. Eleusis

Located about 32 minutes from Athens, Eleusis is a small town with a big history. It’s located right between Athens and Corinth.

So, it might be possible to combine the two on one of your day trips from Athens. A truly fascinating town, it’s received recognition as the European Capital of Culture for 2021 ! And here’s why:

It was once home to the Eleusinian Mysteries. According to legend, these were secret religious rites created by Demeter, the goddess of harvest and agriculture. They represented fertility, immortality and regeneration. 

The curious part is, that even though thousands took part in the rituals, hardly anyone revealed what actually took place. It is said that speaking of the rituals was punishable by death. Today, you can still visit the site where the Mysteries took place, the archaeological site and the museum.

If that wasn’t enough, Eleusis was also one of the 5 sacred cities of Ancient Greece. Its treacherous port is known as the Graveyard of Ships as it has dozens of shipwrecks.

Plus, in the archaeological site of Eleusis, there is a mystical cavern where, according to legend, the god of the Underworld, Hades, was seen.

So, if you’re interested in this fascinating town, I’d recommend adding it to your list of Athens day trips! To get there, you can either take a bus, which will take around 50 min or drive, which will take around 30.

11. Hydra, Poros and Aegina Islands

One of the most popular island day trips from Athens is to the idyllic islands of Hydra, Poros and Aegina. 

Hydra is famous for its architecture, streets of the old town which are scattered with boutique shops and traditional tavernas, and cosy little beach coves. There’s not too much sightseeing on this little Greek island.

But hiking one of the many walking paths to spectacular sea views is a popular option. There are also bastions, a few museums and monasteries to explore.

Poros is similar, with some stunning beach views and water sports. The picturesque waterfront promenade has views across the Pelopenses mountains.

You can visit the archaeological museum or Poros, climb the whitewashed clock tower, or visit the remains of the ancient temple of Poseidon.

Aegina features a few more archaeological sites that fans of ancient Greece will love. The Archaeological Museum of Aegina was the first museum to be established in the modern Greek State. It is full of interesting artefacts.

You can also visit the stunning Monastery of Agios Nektarios and visit the archaeological site of Kolona. The Temple of Aphaia is also close by, which is older than the Parthenon in Athens.

There are several day trips and organised tours to these islands that embark from Athens daily. But, if you’d like a little more freedom on your trip, you could also take a ferry which departs from Piraeus port almost 5 times per day. The ferry takes about 2 hours.

✅ I recommend this tour to Hydra, Poros and Aegina

Popular among both wine lovers and fans of ancient Greek history alike, Nemea is one of the most popular destinations in the Peloponnese.

An hour and a half southwest of Athens, past Corinth, Nemea is home to the largest single vineyard in all of Greece and produces world-renowned wine.

It also has a captivating history. Legend has it that Nemea is where Hercules performed his first labour. It is said that he killed the Nemean lion that ravaged the area at the time and terrified the locals. It was after this, that he was known as a hero.

Today, you can visit the archaeological site that depicts this. It is also the site of the revival of The Nemea Games. This was a sporting event in ancient Nemea that used to take place every two years (in turn with the Olympic Games) since 573 BC.

You can visit the 40,000-capacity stadium where these games took place, along with the archaeological museum and temple of Nemeios Zeus.

13. Epidaurus

For one of the most popular and largest Ancient Theatres in Greece with a seriously impressive view, Epidaurus is one of the most wonderful day trips from Athens. On the northeastern side of the Peloponnese, in the region of Argolis,

Epidaurus is mostly known and visited for the ancient theatre. And trust me, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is well worth a visit. However, the nearby town is also lovely and shouldn’t be forgotten.

There are pretty villages and beaches close to the ancient site, including a charming fishing village with a couple of traditional taverns specialising in fresh, local seafood, and some small, scenic beaches. 

In summer, because of the stunning acoustics of the theatre, it is still used today for live performances. It’s worth checking out the nearby archaeological museum and healing Sanctuary of Asklepios too. 

Epidaurus is often a stop on the Athens to Delphi tour . But to properly spend time in the area, you can drive there from Athens. The drive is roughly 2 hours but can be combined with a road trip to Nafplio or Mycenae.

However, when you get there, it’s one of the most wonderful day trips from Athens. The views across the mountains really are the cherry on top.

✅ I recommend this trip to Epidaurus

14. Parnitha National Park

If you enjoy hiking and exploring the outdoors , a day trip to Parnitha National Park will be right up your street. Situated about 30km north of Athens, this beautiful park offers countless trails and chances to explore the mountains in Greece.

This is an excellent way to see a side of Greece that not many non-locals get to see as tourists typically head south to the Greek islands instead.

Visiting Parnitha National Park is actually pretty easy from Athens too. The drive takes one hour and the roads are pretty straightforward – once again, if you do this, I recommend hiring a car .

Alternatively, you can take a bus (the Green Line) to Nea Ionia. From there, catch the bus straight to Thrakomakedones.

Once you arrive, there’s plenty to do. The park boasts an extensive network of well-marked hiking trails, suitable for hikers of all levels. However, if you don’t fancy hiking up the entire mountain, you could always take the cable car instead.

This cable car is free, but it will actually take you to a casino, instead of to the mountain itself, but just exit the casino and you’ll be able to get back to nature. Alternatively, you could stay at the casino, play a few games, or grab some food with a view.

If you enjoy nature and the outdoors, this is an excellent day trip from Athens. I also think it’s a wonderful way to see a different side of Greece and is well worth a trip.

How do you get from Athens to Delphi?

There are a few ways to get from Athens to Delphi; the most popular is to go via a tour company. There are plenty of tours that operate between the two destinations and the tours are usually well-organised and informative:

However, if you’d like a little more control over your time there, you can also get from Athens to Delphi in a couple of other ways:

•   Bus – To get to Delphi from Athens, you’ll need to head to the Liossion bus station and catch the KTEL bus. Make sure to check that the direction is towards Delphi. The bus trip from Athens to Delphi will take about 3 hours . To book bus tickets, click here.
• Car – To get from Athens to Delphi by car you have to take the National Greek Road from Athens to Lamia. Then, you follow the directions to Levadia and continue towards Delphi. The journey is about 181 km and will take you around 2.5 hours . To hire a car, click here .

Can you do day trips to the islands from Athens?

Absolutely! Athens serves as an excellent hub for exploring the Greek islands on day trips. The city’s proximity to the Aegean Sea makes it the perfect place to start your island-hopping adventure.

There are several islands that you can easily visit within a day from Athens, including Aegina, Poros, Hydra , and Spetses.

Ferries and hydrofoils depart from the bustling Piraeus Port, which is just a short journey from the city centre. Each island has its unique charm and character, from Aegina’s historical sites to Hydra’s car-free tranquillity.

The short travel time allows you to maximize your island exploration without committing to an overnight stay, perfect if you want to visit a few different islands during your time in Athens.

You can even do day trips to some of the most popular islands from Athens, like Mykonos and Santorini. However, I’d personally allow a few days to explore these, as the travel time is further.

How do you get from Athens to Santorini?

One of the most popular of the Greek islands, people often want to make the trip from Athens to Santorini (or Mykonos) as part of their island-hopping journey.

There are several ways to get between the two:

The most common ferry departs at 7:30 am daily and runs between Athens and Santorini. This is the Blue Star route.

towards the peak season, starting in early April, additional SeaJets and Golden Star Ferries also operate high-speed services between Athens and the island. Ferries take roughly 5 hours . To book a ferry, click here .

The flight between Athens and Santorini is also simple to book and take. Between June and September, there are typically over 15 flights per day with RyanAir, EasyJet, Aegean Airlines, and Olympic Air.

Be aware that, due to the difference in speed, flights often sell out much quicker than ferries. So be sure to book yours in advance to guarantee a seat. The flight will take about 50 minutes . To book cheap flights, click here .

If you’re considering day trips from Athens and have always wanted to see Santorini, then you’ll also be pleased to know that 2-day tours are also available. This hassle-free tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in both Athens and Santorini. There are also 5-day tours to Santorini and Mykonos.

A 3-star hotel for one night in Santorini is included in the price with free breakfast. You’ll have a full day of free time to explore Santorini which is enough to see Fira, Oia, Imerovigli, a couple of wineries, and the Akrotiri historical site.

If you don’t want the hassle of arranging this yourself, this is a great option, but if you prefer more time, I recommend the first two.

✅ I recommend this tour from Athens to Santorini

What are the best day trips from Athens for couples?

If you’re in Greece as a couple , there are plenty of day trips from Athens that would be suitable. Of course, this all depends on what you’re into. If you love history, then the Athens to Delphi route is easily the best option.

Whereas, if you’re more of a fan of idyllic islands, beautiful beaches and boat tours, then a relaxing trip to Hydra would be more up your street.

Final Thoughts on the Best Day Trips from Athens

Overall, Athens is a wonderful city to visit . Not only is the history in the city itself absolutely fantastic, but there are so many wonderful places within an easy day trip to Athens that can turn your trip from a short city break, into a week-long summer holiday!

You can visit so much from mountain tip historical sites to stunning Greek islands. So, if you thought a trip to Athens was just about the Acropolis, I hope you have been very pleasantly surprised!

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

• SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
• BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
• SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
• DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
• OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
• GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
• AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. But, I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

Similar Posts

15 Best Things to Do in Baden-Baden, Germany

From exploring the delights of the Black Forest to wandering around this charming spa town, here are the 15 best things to do in Baden Baden.

Hiking in Austria: The 11 Most Amazing Trails

Austria has beautiful landscapes and it’s also one of the best countries to hike in. Here are the best places for hiking in Austria.

The 18 Best Free Things to do in Cambridge

A trip to Cambridge doesn’t have to be expensive! Here are the 18 best free things to do in Cambridge that you probably don’t realise.

24 Very Best Things to do in Pula, Croatia (2024)

From the famous Amphitheatre to a medieval fortress perched on a hilltop, these are the 23 best things to do in Pula, Croatia.

23 Most Amazing Things to Do in Zadar, Croatia

Zadar is the perfect place to relax or go on an adventure. These 23 amazing things to do in Zadar are sure to make your trip extra special.

An Epic Key West Day Trip: The Best Things to do

If you’re looking for beauty, perfect weather, and plenty to do, you’ll love Key West. Here’s how to plan the perfect Key West day trip.

One Comment

Thank you for these great suggestions. I’m going to Athens and Santorini at the end of December and was looking for some great day trips. Much appreciated.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Visitors Guide
• Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Athens with a local

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

• See & Do
• Seasonal Guide

What to Pack for Your Trip to Athens

• Copied to clipboard

Getting ready for a city break in Athens? Let us help you pack your suitcase for whichever season you choose to visit Athens.

By Katherine Whittaker

Summer may seem like the best time to come to Athens, and we get it: the weather is perfect, and you can escape to any of a number of nearby beaches for a quick day—or weekend-long trip —when summer in the city becomes a little too hot. 

However, if you ask us, there really isn’t a bad time to come to Athens. There’s never a shortage of things to do . While the summer draws the crowds for the weather, you may find the city much more manageable (and certainly less crowded) in the off season. To help you figure out how to best prepare for your trip, we’ve broken down our packing guide by spring, summer, autumn and winter, so you won’t be caught by surprise.

Personally, spring is one of my favourite times to be in Athens. During March and April, flowers will start blooming, and the smell of orange tree blossoms floats down pretty much every street. The temperatures from March to May average around 19 degrees, and towards the end of May it could get up to 25. For the outdoorsy traveller, spring is ideal in Athens. You can spend time hiking or biking around Mount Hymettus , or taking more local walks up Lycabettus Hill or around Philopappou , so make sure to bring your hiking shoes. And sunglasses are a must—even if the temperatures are cool, when the sun bounces off all that brilliant marble around Syntagma, you’re going to want a layer over your eyes. It’s always tempting to dress for the weather you hope will happen, but don’t forget to pack layers. Nighttime will still get cool in Athens, so even though you can happily walk around in a t-shirt during the day, you’ll want to add a sweater at night. It’s also a good idea to bring layers if you plan on doing as the Greeks do and sitting at outdoor cafes and bars; as soon as winter ends and as long as it isn’t raining, you’ll find Greeks enjoying their coffees and cocktails al fresco.   And speaking of rain, while there isn’t as much of a chance of precipitation in spring as in the winter months, you will still want to pack for the possibility of rain showers. Another thing to think about: if you suffer from allergies, you may want to stock up on antihistamines or allergy medication before landing.

Not too cold, not too hot, spring is the favourite season of many visitors to Athens.

It’s probably safe to say that if you’re coming to Athens in summer, you will want to spend at least a little time at one of the beaches in and around the city. Temperatures can climb up to 40 degrees, so a good way to cool off is somewhere seaside like Vouliagmeni  or Glyfada . Or maybe even a rooftop pool  at Fresh Hotel or the Hilton. Make sure to pack a bathing suit or two for these spots. Should you decide to stay in the city on a scorching day, it may be tempting to bare shoulders and legs; but be aware that if you want to tour churches or religious sites , you will need to cover up. Avoid overly revealing clothing and bring a scarf or light cover-up that you can easily pull out of your bag.

Another reason to cover up a bit more? Protection from the sun. If you’re prone to sunburn, only a few minutes outside could make you turn red, so don’t forget your hat. You can buy sunblock here, but if you are choosy about your brand, perhaps consider bringing some from home. You may also want to bring a layer for intense A/C; sometimes it can shock your system to go from extreme outdoor temperatures to colder indoor ones. And here’s a suggestion that applies to all seasons, but the summer in particular: leave the stilettos at home. Athens has its share of cobbled streets (which are tricky enough to navigate in the flattest shoes), and you could end up with a twisted ankle if you try to explore the Parthenon or wander around Anafiotika in impractical footwear.

Bare your skin as the sun goes down.

Autumn colours, autumn attire.

Autumn is another beautiful season in Athens. You may not encounter the vivid changing leaves that you find in other European cities, but the weather in autumn is still lovely, with temperatures averaging around 26 degrees. Load up on warm-weather attire, but layers are key; nighttime can get cool so you’ll want a sweater or jacket and maybe a pair of jeans to keep dining and drinking al fresco through the evening, an essential activity that lasts through late October or even November. Outdoor theatres like the Odeon of Herodes Atticus will still have shows under the stars. During this time of year, the sea is still warm, so bring a swimsuit and plan a day by the sea. You’ll also avoid the summer crowds, which thin out in early September. It’s a good time of year for wandering the city streets without worrying too much about the heat—might we suggest one of the many great walking tours in this city ? But for the adventurers out there, this might be a great time for some hiking. Throw a pair of hiking shoes in your suitcase (and breathable socks, because it’ll still be warm and you’ll want to let your toes breathe) and head to Mount Ymittos’ trail or explore the Tatoi Palace . Again, make sure to pack sun protection if your skin is sensitive.  It may still be pretty dry in the city during the fall, but you never know when a sudden rainshower will break out. Bring shoes that can stand a little water and an umbrella or a jacket.

The first thing to know about Athens in the winter is that it does occasionally snow here (particularly in the outer suburbs of the city). Temperatures can dip down as low as 6 degrees, so if you’re coming from December to February, bring a heavier jacket, scarves, and perhaps even gloves or boots if you’re sensitive to the cold. This season averages the most rain, about 30 days of the year. In addition to the usual raincoats and umbrellas, make sure to toss in a pair of shoes that you don’t mind getting wet, or that are waterproof. When rain is heavy, you may encounter lots of flowing water on the sidewalks and squares of Athens.  But winter is the perfect time to spend inside any of Athens’ spectacular museums  or fantastic restaurants . If you want to blend in with the locals, wear black—as in many big cities, you’ll find people often dress in monochrome dark colours from head to toe.

Don't let a few drops of rain keep you indoors.

Delphi Day Trip from Athens: A One Day Itinerary

Last Updated on February 12, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning a Delphi day trip from Athens is one of the best ways to see some incredible historic sites within easy reach of the Greek capital.

While visiting the capital city of Athens , you may crave to dig deeper into the history of Ancient Greece, and one of the most popular options is to visit the UNESCO archaeological site of Delphi, located in the southern part of mainland Greece .

Table of Contents

How to Get from Athens to Delphi

By organised tour.

When planning for your day trip to Delphi, you may decide that you’d much rather visit the site with a group.

Both this full-day tour and this full-day tour include transportation from Athens and an archaeologist tour guide to show you the sites of Delphi as well as stopping at the village of Arachova, so it’s great if you want to visit Delphi and Arachova together.

Other options are this full-day tour and this guided day tour which include entrance tickets, an expert guide while you visit the archaeological site of Delphi and time in a few charming local towns before heading back to your hotel in Athens.

Those who would rather have a guided tour to themselves and have the cash to spend will love this private day tour which takes you from Athens to Delphi. A private tour to Delphi is great for visitors who don’t want the fuss of public transport or self-driving but still want some independence.

Finally, if you want to visit both Delphi and Meteora, it is possible to take this two-day tour that visits both sites and is a great option for those looking for a longer tour from Athens.

If you’re hoping to use bus transportation for your one day in Delphi, you’re in luck. Bus transportation from Athens to Delphi is pretty straightforward, not too long, and with pretty frequent daily routes. 

The bus system that you’ll be using to get from Athens to Delphi, is the KTEL bus system. They’re pretty much regional buses connecting Greece, mainly in part due to the lack of a thriving train system. 

All of the buses from Athens to Delphi leave from the KTEL Bus Station B at 260 Liossion Street . This bus station is conveniently located just about a 10-minute walk from a metro station (Agios Nikolaos), so it’s not too difficult to reach the bus station if you’re taking metro transport. Tickets are available for purchase online , at the station, or on the bus.

It’s important to keep in mind that the summer season gets busy on the KTEL buses (especially the Athens/Delphi route), so you’ll want to arrive early. Once the bus is full, there’s no more room to purchase tickets.

Even if you’ve purchased a ticket online, you’ll, unfortunately, lose your spot if you’re not there early enough to secure your seat before early ticket buyers purchase at the station or on the bus.

There are typically around 5-6 buses a day leaving from Athens to go to Delphi as well as from Delphi to Athens. You can expect the bus ride to be around 3 hours depending on traffic and the driver will usually stop at the midpoint of the ride so you can use the toilet and purchase snacks or lunch. 

Unfortunately, there isn’t a feasible train journey option for those traveling from Athens to Delphi. While Greece does have a train system throughout the mainland, it’s not what most travelers are used to when compared to the majority of European train systems.

Delphi is in more of a remote area and surrounded by small towns, so the only option would be to take a train to a city about an hour away from Delphi and then take a taxi to the site.

Due to the difficulty, cost, and lack of access directly to Delphi, I wouldn’t recommend taking the train for a day trip.

In my opinion, the ideal way to reach Delphi from Athens is by driving. While taking a bus for a day trip to Delphi from Athens isn’t too long or too costly, driving to Delphi is the quickest option and also gives you the most flexibility for your Delphi itinerary or for extending your trip to the Peloponnese . You can browse car rental options on Rentalcars.com which compares prices across several providers.

There are a few different routes to take when driving from Athens to Delphi and the one you choose will ultimately depend on the amount of time you have and if you’re interested in making other stops along the way.

Traffic is typically the same for all routes but it’s usually busier on Sunday evenings and during post-work rush hour in the late afternoon.

Route 1 is the shortest, taking around 3 hours. The scenery for this route is mainly rural farmland, passing through small villages before arriving at the stunning Mount Parnassus area and then Delphi.

Route 2 is ideal if you’re looking to get more out of your Delphi itinerary. This route will take around 5 hours and tolls are far more expensive. You’ll drive through the Gulf of Corinth and have opportunities to stop at the famous Corinth Canal and the Ancient archaeological city of Corinth.

From there, you’ll drive on the Rion-Antirion Bridge, the bridge with the largest, continuous suspended deck in the world, then head to Delphi on a singletrack road, passing directly through the heart of rural Greece.

While this route is lengthy, it is possible to do it in a day if you’re up for it, but I recommend it if you have a night to stay and take your time on the journey. 

There’s no specific parking lot or surveilled parking at the sites of Delphi, it’s just street parking. So it’s definitely best to arrive as early as possible to make sure that you’ll be guaranteed parking.

Delphi Day Trip Itinerary

Delphi is easily one of the most monumental locations to visit in Greece, and that in turn makes it the most popular excursion site for a day out from Athens.

For the Ancient Greeks, Delphi was the most important spot where people would travel to consult with the famous Oracle, Pythia.

Delphi was also known as the “center of the world” and in the modern day, an estimated 500,000 tourists flock to this UNESCO World Heritage Site yearly to understand the importance of Delphi.

Archaeological Site of Delphi

Visiting the Archaeological Site of Delphi is the main thing that you’ll be doing on an Athens to Delphi day trip. The archaeological site itself begins with the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia, a temple devoted to worshipping the goddess Athena in Greek Mythology.

Next on your Delphi archaeological tour, you’ll make your way down the “sacred way” and through the ruins of Delphi. From here, you’ll find yourself at the Temple of Apollo, a temple devoted to the Greek God, Apollo, and also where the famous legend, the Oracle of Delphi would deliver her prophecies to Ancient Delphi. 

In the archaeological site, you’ll also find the theater and stadium of Delphi (which is higher up and usually void of tourists as the trek is quite long and tours tend to be too short to visit).  

The area itself is incredibly dense with ruins, remnants, and monuments built by the most popular and wealthy Athenian families during Ancient Greece.

Because of this, even if you aren’t taking part in a tour, I highly recommend having your own audio guide or brushing up on the importance of Delphi before your visit. It enhances your time in Delphi especially since information at the site is pretty sparse and vague.

Tickets for the Archaeological site of Delphi include the Archaeological Museum of Delphi next door. You can buy skip-the-line tickets here.

Both the Archaeological Site and Museum are open daily with free admission days throughout the year as well as holidays closed or with reduced hours.

Archaeological Museum of Delphi

The Archaeological Museum of Delphi is located directly next to the archaeological site and is the perfect spot to visit afterwards (or beforehand if you’d rather see the artifacts before the ruins and site).

This museum is one of the most important museums in Greece and is home to the discoveries made and artifacts found at the Archaeological Site of Delphi. 

The museum displays many famous statues; from the Charioteer of Delphi to the Sphinx of Naxos . You’ll also witness pieces found from the Treasury of the Athenians as well as pieces from the late Hellenistic and Roman periods.

The museum is made up of two floors and follows a timeline from the early Greek periods until the most recent that’s represented in the museum. 

Tickets to the Archaeological Museum are included with entrance to the ruins and operating hours are the same for both the museum and archaeological site. 

Arachova Village

After spending most of the day in the mystical ruins of Delphi, a great way to wrap up your one day in Delphi is to head to the nearby village of Arachova. Arachova is located about 12km away from Delphi and is undoubtedly one of the most wildly beautiful villages in central Greece.

Sitting within the hills of Mount Parnassus at an altitude of 960 meters, Arachova is a true winter destination but also a lush and lively place to visit throughout the warmer months. 

Wander around the main Lakka Square and its many shops while taking in the stunning scenery and decorations. Maybe even take the long walk up to the Holy Church of Agios Georgios for outstanding views of Delphi and Parnassus. 

If you’re visiting in winter , skiing is the main activity of choice and Arachova is a bustling small town throughout the winter months.

Looking for something to eat in Arachova before heading back to Athens? I recommend the restaurant, Skala , located in the center of Arachova. The food is highly rated, local, and with moderate prices in comparison to the high quality of the dishes. 

Have More Than One Day in Delphi?

If you have more time to spend in the region, central Greece is full of treasures to discover no matter the time of year. It’s an entirely underrated part of the country that has so much history and beauty worth your time to explore

Hosios Loukas Monastery

The Hosios Loukas Monastery is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in the area located around 38km from Delphi and close to Arachova. The monastery’s church is one of the most well-preserved small churches from the Middle Byzantine era.

This church was established by the famed Greek monk Loukas and is the only known church in Greece that was built in the 10th century. Inside you’ll find relics to showcase the Byzantine period as well as the wealth and history of the monastery. 

Meteora 

Although it’s another 3 hours away by car, another destination in the area that without a doubt is worth the visit is Meteora . Here you’ll find the most monumental Greek Orthodox monasteries built on top of some of the most uniquely extravagant and inspiring rock formations in the world.

Nearby, you’ll also find Theopetra’s Cave, which is believed to be the home of the oldest human construction on earth!

Where to Stay in Athens

Athens Ivy Suites – Mid-range visitors to Athens will love this centrally-located hotel. They have clean, bright and comfortable rooms to choose from. There is also an on-site bar and a gorgeous terrace with incredible views over the Greek capital.

The Modernist Athens – This luxury hotel will ensure that you have all you need to make sure you’re well-rested. They have beautiful rooms to choose from and plenty of amenities to ensure your stay is a great one.

101 Adrianou Apartments – For those who would like their own space while basing themselves in Athens , this aparthotel is a great option. There are a range of flats available depending on your group size and it has a great location for exploring the city.

City Circus Athens – This hostel is an excellent option for those visiting the Greek capital on a tight budget. They have both private rooms and dorms on offer, good self-catering facilities and they organise social events for visitors, as well.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Athens hotels!

It’s very clear why Delphi is one of the most visited locations in Greece and visiting for yourself will undoubtedly give you a good understanding of why. From tales of Ancient Oracles to relics from the beginning of Democracy, a day trip from Athens to Delphi will surely be a magical day that you’ll find hard to forget.

Are you planning to spend a day in Delphi? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect 2, 3, or 4 Days in Corfu Itinerary

The Perfect 5 to 7 Day Peloponnese Road Trip Itinerary

How to Get From Sofia to Thessaloniki by Bus, Train or Car

About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Athens Tourism
• Athens Hotels
• Athens Bed and Breakfast
• Athens Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Athens
• Athens Restaurants
• Things to Do in Athens
• Athens Travel Forum
• Athens Photos
• All Athens Hotels
• Athens Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Athens
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

1 free day - stay in Athens or do day trip? - Athens Forum

• Europe    
• Greece    
• Attica    
• Athens    

1 free day - stay in Athens or do day trip?

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Attica forums
• Athens forum

How should I spend that day? This will be my first and only time in Greece . I’m generally interested in historical ruins, the ancient Christian Church, and the sea. Do you recommend I stay in Athens - if so, what should I see? Or should I consider a day trip? I was considering doing the day trip to the Saronic Islands. Anything else you’d recommend?

One day only...

If you don't want to invest in a guide book, you can find loads of info on a simple internet search on Athens - you won't be disappointed ;)

• Strike 7 May 6:59 am
• Accommodation in Athens 6:20 am
• Plaka stay 10:44 pm
• Athens on a Sunday when shops are closed. 10:11 pm
• Combined ticket timing when Acropolis is not the first stop 10:03 pm
• Acropolis Tickets yesterday
• Day Tours from Athens - How does pricing work? yesterday
• Changing of the Guards yesterday
• Athens Airport question yesterday
• POS mandatory everywhere from today yesterday
• Acropolis combined ticket yesterday
• Athens airport to Piraeus - how long? Apr 01, 2024
• Shipping Luggage to Athens Apr 01, 2024
• Athens Luxury hotel Apr 01, 2024
• What is the best area to stay in Athens? 5 replies
• travelling from Athens Airport to Piraeus 30 replies
• Where to stay in Athens? 19 replies
• Best time to go to Greece 11 replies
• travel from Athens - Dubrovnik (croatia) 23 replies
• Economical hotel/B&B near the airport 11 replies
• is it safe to travel to greece summer 2012? 3 replies
• 5 Days in Greece - What all to do? 25 replies
• Golden Coast Holiday Club Resort, Marathon Greece 14 replies
• Bus Athens to Istanbul 13 replies

Athens Hotels and Places to Stay

• ATM withdrawals-info & warnings!
• 2022 Guide to public transport in Athens
• Where can I get a Covid test in Athens?
• Getting to & from the airport.
• What to do in Athens?
• How much time in Athens?
• Pickpocketing. Please read.
• Visiting Athens for a day.
• Visiting Athens for two days.
• Food, food, food!
• Budgeting tips - Freebies
• Wheelchair accessibility?
• Athens trip reports
• SIM card at Athens airport

Re/Membering the Inner Oracle Tour

Athens, Greece

See more photos

• Email address verified

About this trip

EXPLORE ASCENSION WITH THE ANCIENTS

EXPAND PERSONAL PURPOSE + CONSCIOUSNESS  with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to increase EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AND INTUITION in Gnostic Greece and the Mystical Greek Isles. Join the founder of the Graceline Institute, Mickaela Grace and world-renowned writer and physicist from Damanhur University, Gnomo Orzo for special access to sites and teachings on the subject of ancient technology, dimensional trajectories, self-healing, and modernizing the wisdom of Hermetic principles and mystery school teachings. 

Not only will you enjoy the stunning beauty of this timeless landscape, but you will receive the most cutting-edge scientific, spiritual, and historical analysis of Greece, Ancient Atlantis, Alchemy, Gnosticism and Hermeticism, as well as a time-specialist’s view of how to transcend all forms of self-limitation and enslavement. The temples, including the ancient oracles, are still alive and bioavailable. Come learn how to better align to your own insight, and how to apply this wisdom to helping humanity with your own core personal mission—and an unyielding alchemical kindness. 

Yes! This trip will not only focus strongly on the yin-practices of the ancient feminine, but also on up-leveling your IQ (Intelligence Quotient) and KQ (Kindness Quotient). Together we will make our own divination art so that we can rely on our inner gnostic memory to better serve our communities.  

With private time to explore these sacred sites, inner sight, and the science of sound, we will reinvigorate mystery school teachings for each participant to come into their own sense of power and purpose. 

For those of you on the path to completing all 6 modules of the Graceline “Flower of Life”-based EQ Competency Coursework, this includes Module 4 (IQ) and Module 5 (KQ) content, to increase both intellect and intuition through ancient gnostic wisdom . The goal here is to ‘GNOW THYSELF” through direct and divine experience and to venture BEYOND the mystery schools, (which were often about exclusivity rather than inclusivity) to RE/MEMBER SELF as a vital and equal member to the whole of human consciousness. You are as gifted as everyone else! Come find out how!…. This epic journey is about equality, self-reliance, and learning the Temple.Code.Keys for unlocking ancient systems for ascension, helping us amp up our ability to  “read and lead” a room, create miraculous manifestation, and step into a fully-empowered, higher form of service. 

THIS 11-DAY TOUR  will take you to many destinations-- including Athens (the Parthenon! The Acropolis! The Eleusinian Mystery School!), the Oracles of Delphi and Trophonius, Mykonos and the island of the Gods, Delos,-- and the highlight of our trip—a special visit to the excavation site of new Atlantean ruins on Santorini Island (and a catamaran sail to the Caldera) for direct teachings and ceremony with Mickaela and Gnomo Orzo on the subject of bending time for transformational healing and creative potential. 

Join us for the most joyful way to experience our core Module 4-5 curriculum—including deep coursework, meditations, fractal-film transmission, self-healing, and profound community activation. 

*Note: You MAY attend this Expedition without completing Modules 1-3, however we highly recommend attending those retreats before coming to deepen the activations at sacred sites. 

AND ALL GRADUATES OF MODULES 1-3 RECEIVE A STANDARD $500 TUITION DISCOUNT. (reach out to Megan at [email protected] to receive your discount code). 

Terms & Conditions

Agreement Document

Please review and sign the agreement document upon booking.

Reservation and Payment 

A $2,000 deposit will be required at booking and is refundable until July 1, 2024; after July 1, 2024 the $2,000 deposit is refundable as credit towards a future Graceline Event or Service. To ensure your Reservation, final payment will be due 30 days prior to Tour start. Bookings made within 30 days of Tour start, will require full and final payment immediately upon booking. It is the responsibility of the traveler to determine that final payment reaches us on time. No booking will be considered until final deposit is received by the Tour Operator. Payments are made through WeTravel.

Cancellation and Refunds 

Cancellations received 30 days or less before departure will receive no refund. No refund will be made for transfers, city tours or any other services (including meals, accommodations, or transportation) voluntarily not taken.

This Itinerary is subject to changes in order to adapt to possible alterations in domestic flight times or other unforeseen circumstances. The content will remain the same, barring any unanticipated complications, and will include many delightful “extras” and surprises.

We recommend that all participants obtain Travel Insurance. Travel Insured International offers insurance for trip cost, trip cancellation & interruption, and pays for loss due to unforeseen circumstance, death, injury, or illness to you or a member of your family. It also includes coverage for missed connections due to weather, pays for lost deposits due to the financial default of the airline, the tour operator, or cruise line. It pays for baggage delays, travel delays, medical expenses, and emergency assistance.

Waiver of Responsibility

By signing up to the Tour you agree to our Terms, Deposit Conditions and Waiver.

We've worked diligently to make all the arrangements for our journey together. However, Graceline Institute & its agents will not be held liable for delays, theft, damage, injury, or any other irregularities that may occur during the journey. We will not be held liable for any changes or delays in airline schedules or missed connections; injury, loss, or damage to persons or property; additional expenses resulting from changes in exchange rates, tariffs, or itinerary; any transportation issues or problems with vehicles utilized on the tour; additional expenses incurred due to illness, weather conditions, protests, war, terrorism, quarantine, or other causes; and losses due to cancellations not subject to our Terms and Conditions.

What’s included

• Hotels Hotel stays mentioned in the intinerary
• Meals Meals mentioned in the itinerary
• Air Transport Domestic flights
• Airport Assistance Meet & assist at the airport
• Tour Guide English speaking guides
• Ground Transport Transportations to the mentioned sites
• Entry Tickets Entry tickets to the mentioned locations in the itinerary
• Ferry Transport Ferry transports mentioned in the intinerary

What’s not included

• Visas Any Visas Needed for Entry to Greece
• Insurance Travel Insurance
• Laundry Laundry Service
• Extras Any other service or tour not mentioned in the itinerary
• PCR Test PCR test ($60) if needed
• International Flights International Flights

Available Packages

Shared room for 2 people

Private room for 1 person

Early Arrivers: *Optional day-trip to Athens Museum 

*The museum will help prepare you for Santorini, so arrive early if you want to join us. 

Arrive at Athens Coco-Mat BC Hotel where we sleep atop ancient ruins and will overlook the Parthenon for our daily practice + Evening OPENING Ceremony.

A soulful visit to the Parthenon + Acropolis with a garden meditation to begin our inner connection. Evening fractal film meditation to activate the ancient wisdom within. 

A deep-dive investigation “beyond the mystery school” and the illusion of separation. An insightful study of ancient philosophy, Plato’s take on Sacred Geometry, and an experiential journey into making your own interactive art and “oracular” divination tools so that when we leave Athens, the true mystical journey begins… 

A visit to the POWERHOUSE ruins of ELEUSIS and the equanimity that was once offered by the Eleusinian Mystery School—plus the divine synchronicity of a partnered pilgrimage along the traditional roads to Eleusis. 

“Eleusis” in Greek means “ARRIVAL.” For centuries, initiates sworn to secrecy walked the 13-mile road from Athens, known as the “sacred way,” in torchlit processions, to take part in the Eleusinian Mysteries—rituals of drinking a time-bending psychedelic called “the kykeon” that famously shook up the ancient world and allowed equal access to the secrets of the universe. 

Rulers, thought leaders, artists and philosophers, such as Plato, Plutarch, Aristotle, and Cicero, all turned their fate over to the feminine “art and act of self-surrender” to the mystical wiles of the Eleusinian order. This was an ancient practice for personal revelation, but it also shook up the hierarchical power structures of the time, calling for a greater equality on the path to ascension. Which is why Emperor Theodosius put an end to the entire cultural collective, banning the procession and killing the leaders who dared to administer the kykeon or put power in the hands of the people.

But these sites are still alive with the answers to our burning questions. And so we will go see for ourselves by walking processional pilgrimage and “Traditional Camino”.  

A visit to the holy rivers and old ruins of the Apollo’s Oracle at Trophonius (optional cold plunging and MoveMed session in the holy waters!), and a group meditation in an ancient cave system. 

Arrive at our Delphi hotel for a day of integration, devotional and gnostic art-making, and deep-meditation. (*no previous art skills required). Special sunset surprise and mountain moment (to get above the Temple of Apollo). 

Visit to the UNESCO site and museum at Delphi. Including the Temple of Apollo and the Temple of Athena. Group healing work and dream weaving on the subject of inner-vision and outer-mission.

The word “oracle” comes from the Latin word “oraculum,” which means  both a prophecy made by a god (or priest) and the place where the prophecy is given —LIKE A COMPASS. And the Delphic Oracle atop the Mountain of Parnassus, was famous for not only “ shaping the destiny ” of entire nations, armies, religions, and dynasties, but of giving guidance to average pilgrims on their way to revelation, better decisions, and higher consciousness.

The oracle was also famous for delivering prophecy in the form of ambiguous suggestion, rhyme, riddle, or poetic verse so that the receiver had to become aware of their own shadow, bias, and assumptions—meaning the task at hand is to actually take FULL RESPONSIBILITY for one’s own destiny—for it was (and is) never shaped OUTSIDE of us, but INSIDE of us. 

This is what we will pilgrimage to the great temples to restore: radical self-reliance and the act of realigning our inner compass to access our own INATE wisdom and intuition. 

Arrive at our Mykonos hotel for a day of integration, devotional gnostic art-making, and deep-meditation. (*no previous art skills required)—followed by a beach ceremony and sunset pilgrimage to prepare for the sacred isle of Delos.

Mykonos—nicknamed “The Island of Winds”—is a great place to call upon the shamanic “winds of change.” It is a place to create new beginnings through intentional change-agent dreaming.

Despite its small area, there are more than 600 churches and small chapels on Mykonos, most of them dating back to the Byzantine times. Its estimated there is one church per local family! And according to Greek mythology, the island was named for its first ruler, Mykonos, who was the descendent and first creation of Apollo—the Greek God of Light and Music.  

Considered to be the most sacred place in all of Greece, we will rise early to make our way on a small boat to this near-uninhabited island lost in time—the birthplace of  twin Gods Apollo and Artemis, the infamous Delos Island. 

Appropriately, the island’s name, Delos, comes from the verb  deloo  which means “to declare or to show,” so it is a powerful place for pilgrimage— and for one to “declare” and command what we are calling into form. THIS IS A PLACE FOR RAW CREATION.  

This site was sacred even 1,000 years before the hybrid Gods Apollo and Artemis were born and is said to be the birthplace of the sun and the moon as well. Because of its ties to the celestial, it is still considered so sacred that to this day, no mere mortals are allowed to be born or die on the island (so that no one can try to stake a claim for ownership or inheritance). This keeps the island pure in its energy, and belonging to us all, equally, operating like an “umbilicus” tethering us to higher awareness, immortality, time travel, and mystical experience. 

In the morning we will visit to the stunning peak of Scaros Rock for a private meditation in a hidden alcove overlooking a powerful patch of sea. In the evening, we will enjoy traditional Greek dining at its best aboard a catamaran taking us on a sunset cruise to the Caldera for a private closing ceremony and life-changing direct transmission/meditation. 

Your Organizer

Photo gallery.

• Car Rentals
• Airport Transfers
• Attractions & Tours
• Bundle & Save
• Destinations
• Trip.com Rewards

G Day Autograph Event | Hyatt Place Athens / Downtown

The G Day Autograph Event is a highly anticipated gathering in Athens, set to take place at the prestigious Hyatt Place Athens / Downtown on April 13, 2024. This event promises a thrilling experience for sports enthusiasts and autograph seekers alike. Located at 412 North Thomas Street, Athens, GA 30601, this event offers attendees the chance to meet their favorite sports stars and collect coveted autographs. With ticket prices ranging from $10 to $300, there is an option for every budget. The atmosphere at the G Day Autograph Event is sure to be electric, filled with excitement and anticipation. Don't miss out on this special opportunity to connect with your sports idols and create lasting memories. Mark your calendars and secure your tickets for an unforgettable experience at the G Day Autograph Event in Athens.

Provided by Talitha | Published Apr 3, 2024

Are you interested in G Day Autograph Event?

Recommended products for g day autograph event | hyatt place athens / downtown, hotel grande bretagne, a luxury collection hotel, athens, the dolli at acropolis, acropolis of athens, king george, a luxury collection hotel, athens, academias hotel, autograph collection, acropolis museum, national archaeological museum, syntagma square, more contents about athens.

• Customer Support
• Service Guarantee
• More Service Info
• Website Feedback
• About Trip.com
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Statement
• About Trip.com Group

Other Services

• Investor Relations
• Affiliate Program
• List My Property
• Become a Supplier

Maps of the April 2024 Total Solar Eclipse

By Jonathan Corum

On April 8, the moon will slip between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow across a swath of North America: a total solar eclipse.

By cosmic coincidence, the moon and the sun appear roughly the same size in the sky. When the moon blocks the glare of the sun, the sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, will be briefly visible.

Below are several maps of the eclipse’s path as well as images of what you might experience during the event.

Where Can I See the Total Eclipse?

The eclipse will begin at sunrise over the Pacific Ocean, then cut through Mexico and cross the United States from Texas to Maine. Most of North America will see a partial eclipse, but viewers within the deepest shadow — a band sliding from Mazatlán, Mexico, to the Newfoundland coast near Gander, Canada — will experience a total solar eclipse.

Percentage of

the sun obscured

during the eclipse

Indianapolis

Little Rock

San Antonio

Viewers inside the path of the total eclipse may notice a drop in temperature , a lull or shift in the wind , the appearance of bright planets in the sky, and the quieting of birds and other wildlife.

Many cities lie inside the path of the total eclipse, as shown below, the width of which varies from 108 miles to 122 miles.

5:13 p.m. NDT

20% partial eclipse

NEWFOUNDLAND

SASKATCHEWAN

Fredericton

4:33 p.m. ADT

3:26 p.m. EDT

3:20 p.m. EDT

Minneapolis

3:18 p.m. EDT

3:13 p.m. EDT

San Francisco

90% partial eclipse

3:05 p.m. EDT

Los Angeles

1:51 p.m. CDT

1:40 p.m. CDT

1:33 p.m. CDT

12:16 p.m. CST

12:12 p.m. CST

11:07 a.m. MST

Mexico City

EL SALVADOR

12:23 p.m. CST

1:36 p.m. CDT

3:09 p.m. EDT

3:27 p.m. EDT

Explore our interactive cloud outlook for eclipse viewing times and average cloud data at your location.

What Will I See?

A composite image of the 2017 solar eclipse over Madras, Ore.

Aubrey Gemignani/NASA

If the sky is clear, viewers in the path of the total eclipse should see a “diamond ring” effect a few seconds before and after the total eclipse, as the edge of the sun slips in and out of view.

The “diamond ring” effect during the 2017 solar eclipse.

Rami Daud/NASA, Alcyon Technical Services

The sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, is normally hidden by the sun’s glare. These tendrils and sheets of gas, heated to a million degrees Fahrenheit or more, are in constant motion and shaped by the sun’s swirling magnetic field.

The sun’s corona during the 2017 solar eclipse.

The sun is relatively active this year and is nearing the expected peak of its 11-year solar cycle . Researchers at Predictive Science are using data about the sun’s magnetic field to predict and model a dramatic corona for the April eclipse.

A prediction of how the sun’s corona might appear during the April 8 total eclipse.

Predictive Science

What Colors Should I Wear?

As the sky darkens, light-sensitive cells in human eyes become more sensitive to blue and green hues than to reds and oranges. This shift in color perception is known as the Purkinje effect , after a 19th-century Czech scientist, and is typically seen at twilight.

Watching the 2017 total eclipse at Southern Illinois University.

Andrea Morales for The New York Times

To take advantage of the Purkinje effect, wear green clothes or a contrasting combination of greens and reds. Blue-green colors (shorter wavelengths) will appear brighter, while red colors (longer wavelengths) will appear to recede into the darkness.

What If I Miss It?

The next two total solar eclipses in the United States won’t occur until 2044 and 2045 . But eclipse chasers might catch one in 2026 in Greenland, Iceland and Spain; 2027 along the coast of Northern Africa; 2028 in Australia and New Zealand; or 2030 across Southern Africa and Australia.

A Total Solar Eclipse Is Coming. Here’s What You Need to Know.

These are answers to common questions about the April 8 eclipse, and we’re offering you a place to pose more of them.

By Katrina Miller

What’s the Cloud Forecast for Eclipse Day? See if the Weather Is on Your Side.

April 8 could be your best opportunity to see a total solar eclipse for decades. But if clouds fill the sky, you may miss the spectacle.

By Josh Katz, K.K. Rebecca Lai and William B. Davis

• Share full article

Advertisement