Planning a trip to Athens?
In this guide, you’ll discover there’s far more to explore than just the Acropolis.
From seaside temples and island escapes to mountain monasteries, the region around Athens offers unforgettable short getaways, whether you have just one day or an entire long weekend to spare. This guide was crafted to help you make the most of your time, with curated 1-day, 2-day, and 3-day trip ideas that blend history, scenery, and seamless travel logistics. We’ve included popular ticketed tours, travel tips, and the best destinations that locals and seasoned travelers love.
So buckle up and join us as we step just outside the city and into unforgettable adventure.
Why Read Best Day Trips from Athens Guide?
Because Athens deserves to be your gateway not just your destination.
- Many travelers overlook the incredible variety that lies just beyond the city, simply because they don’t know where to begin.
- This guide saves you hours of research by curating the top 1, 2, and 3-day trips with practical tips and tour options.
- You'll discover not only where to go but how to get there, what to see, and how to make the most of your time.
- Whether you're into history, coastal beauty or charming mountain towns, we've handpicked trips to match every interest and pace.
1-Day Trips from Athens
For those who want to explore without straying too far from Athens, there’s a surprising variety of day trip options waiting just beyond the city. From ancient ruins and coastal temples to island escapes and charming towns, these destinations offer rich experiences: all doable within a single day.
Whether you're after history, nature, or just a change of pace, this list makes it easy to plan a memorable outing without the hassle of long travel.
1) Meteora Monasteries & Caves (350 km from Athens)
A breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site, Meteora is known for its monasteries perched atop towering rock pillars. The surreal landscape and spiritual atmosphere make this one of the most awe-inspiring day trips you can take from Athens.
- From Athens: Meteora Monasteries & Caves Full-Day Trip with Lunch
- Meteora: Full-Day Tour from Athens with Lunch + Audio Guide
2) Temple of Poseidon & Cape Sounion (70 km from Athens)
Located on the southern tip of the Attica peninsula, Cape Sounion is home to the iconic Temple of Poseidon, dramatically perched above the Aegean Sea. This coastal escape is a local favorite for its scenic drive, mythological significance, and especially its unforgettable sunset views. It's the perfect half-day trip for travelers seeking a mix of history, sea views, and effortless beauty: all in one package.
- From Athens: Temple of Poseidon & Cape Sounion Sunset Tour
- Acropolis & Parthenon Tickets + Temple of Poseidon Sunset Tour from Athens
3) Ancient Corinth & Nafplio (85–140 km from Athens)
Explore the ruins of Ancient Corinth, including the Temple of Apollo and Acrocorinth fortress, then continue on to Nafplio, a romantic seaside town known for its Venetian charm. This combo offers a rich day of history and architecture.
4) Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio (120–140 km from Athens)
Discover the legendary ruins of Mycenae, the well-preserved ancient theater of Epidaurus, and end your day wandering the picturesque streets of Nafplio. It’s a full but rewarding day that dives deep into classical Greece.
2-Day Trips from Athens
If you're ready to venture a bit further from Athens without rushing, a 2-day trip offers the perfect pace to explore more deeply. With an overnight stay, you can soak in the atmosphere of Greece’s most awe-inspiring sites—from mountaintop monasteries to ancient oracle grounds and island sunsets—without feeling pressed for time. These curated getaways combine cultural depth with natural beauty, all within reach of the capital.
1) Delphi and Meteora (180 km + 350 km from Athens)
Experience two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in one journey: walk the sacred ruins of Delphi on day one, then marvel at the cliff-perched monasteries of Meteora the next. Ideal for history lovers and photographers looking to pack in iconic sites with guided ease.
- From Athens: Delphi and Meteora 2-Day Guided Tour
- From Athens: Meteora 2-Day Trip with 2 Guided Tours & Hotels
- From Athens: Meteora Train Trip with Overnight Stay
2) Santorini (by ferry) (~5 hrs ferry from Athens)
Famous for its whitewashed villages, caldera views, and unforgettable sunsets, Santorini offers a taste of the Cycladic dream just a short journey from Athens. Perfect for travelers looking to trade cityscapes for island charm, even if only for a couple of days.
3-Day Trips from Athens
With a bit more time to spare, a 3-day trip from Athens allows you to slow down and truly connect with some of Greece’s most stunning destinations. Whether you’re craving a full island escape, a road trip through the Peloponnese, or a taste of northern Greece, these longer getaways give you space to unwind and explore without rushing.
Here are some inspiring options to turn your Athens trip into a richer travel experience.
6 Travel Tips for Day Trips & Short Getaways from Athens
- Check pickup points carefully: Some tours offer hotel pickup, others depart from central meeting points—double-check to avoid last-minute confusion.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Whether you're exploring ruins, monasteries, or old towns, you’ll be walking on uneven ground a lot.
- Pack light, but smart: Bring essentials like sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, layers (mornings/evenings can be cool), and swimwear if you're heading to coastal or island spots.
- Reserve ahead—especially in peak season (May–September): Popular tours to Meteora, Santorini, or Delphi often sell out in advance.
- Don’t underestimate travel time: A “day trip” might involve 3–5 hours on the road or train each way—bring snacks, download offline maps, or an audiobook.
- Keep some cash on you: Especially in smaller towns or archaeological sites where card machines might be unreliable.
FAQ - About Day Trips from Athens
You can day trip from Athens to a variety of destinations including Delphi, Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon, Ancient Corinth, Nafplio, and even Meteora via train. These locations are popular for their historical significance, natural beauty, and accessibility from Athens within a single day.
The closest island to Athens for a day trip is Aegina. Located just about 40 minutes by ferry from Piraeus Port, Aegina is ideal for a quick escape, offering beaches, seafood tavernas, and the impressive Temple of Aphaia—all within easy reach of central Athens.
Beyond the city itself, you can go to places near Athens such as Lake Vouliagmeni, Marathon, the Athens Riviera, or Mount Parnitha for nature-based experiences. These nearby destinations are perfect for half-day or full-day trips that don’t require long travel times.
Nafplio is often considered the most beautiful town near Athens. Known for its neoclassical architecture, seaside promenade, and charming old town, Nafplio makes for a romantic and culturally rich day or weekend trip from the capital.
While beauty is subjective, many travelers consider Chania (in Crete), Nafplio, and Thessaloniki to be among the prettiest cities in Greece. Each offers its own unique blend of architecture, atmosphere, and scenery—but for many, Nafplio stands out as a favorite close to Athens.
Athens is a city that captivates with its ancient charm but the real magic often begins when you step beyond its borders. Whether you have just one day or a long weekend to spare, the surrounding regions offer a wealth of experiences, from sun-drenched coastlines and mountaintop monasteries to myth-laden ruins and island escapes.
With this guide, you're now equipped to turn your Athens trip into a well-rounded Greek adventure. So go ahead! Choose your route, pack light, and let the journey take you somewhere unforgettable.