With fascinating ruins, ancient temples, and architectural wonders, Athens has a lot to offer. Numerous landmarks and weekend getaway destinations are just a quick ride from the city center: the Archaeological Site of Delphi, Ancient Corinth, stunning Saronic Islands, Archaeological Site of Sounion, and Archaeological Site of Mycenae. Discover the 5 top-rated day trips from Athens!
5 Most Amazing Day Trips From Athens, Greece
Archaeological Site Of Delphi
After the Acropolis of Athens, the archaeological site of Delphi is the most significant UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ancient Greece. It’s mostly known for the majestic Temple of Apollo, the ancient theater, the sanctuary of Athena Pronaia, and the stadium. To view ancient artifacts, you’re welcome to visit the Delphi archaeological museum near the site.
After a few hours of walking around the site and the museum, grab a bite at the amazing To Patriko Mas Greek Mediterranean Restaurant, Tavern DION, or Taverna Vakhos.
Travel Time: 2.5 hours
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Ancient Corinth
The fascinating Ancient Corinth makes an easy day trip from Athens. It’s only an hour away and offers access to ancient ruins on land that connects the Peloponnese and the mainland of Greece. Corinth was one of the most significant ancient Greek city-states and played an important role in the history of the entire world.
When visiting Corinth, see the beautiful Corinth Canal which used to be a major naval hub and its two submersible bridges. Furthermore, there’s the Archaic Temple of Apollo, Peirini Fountain, Conservatory, Ancient Corinth Market, and Corinthian Grand Theater.
History buffs must stop by the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth. It displays findings from the prehistoric times of Corinth, Zygouries, and Korakos Hill. You’ll also come across Roman sculptures, Latin inscriptions, findings from the Classical-Hellenistic era, and more.
For those who want to connect with nature, they can visit Lake Stymphalia in the northeastern part of the Peloponnese. According to Greek mythology, this was the location of Hercules’ sixth labor. It’s also the place where he faced the Stymphalian Birds.
Travel Time: about 1 hour
Saronic Islands
The charming Greek Islands called the Saronic Islands are a popular destination for weekend getaways. Visitors usually go to Hydra, Poros, Spetses, or Aegina. These stunning islands have notable characteristics of the Saronic area – clear sea, tranquil atmosphere, and lengthy history. Spetses stands out for its majestic homes, Poros is fantastic for sailing, Hydra has beautiful buildings, and Aegina is great for family holidays.
After roaming around the islands, relish a mouthwatering traditional greek lunch. We suggest Oasis Tavern restaurant in Poros, Castello Hydra in Hydra, Patralis Psarotaverna in Spetses, and Panta Rei in Aegina.
Travel Time: 15-minute ferry ride or 1.5-hour trip
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Archaeological Site Of Sounion
An important ancient Greek religious ancient site dedicated to Poseidon and Athena is known as Sounion. It’s famous for its breathtaking Temple of Poseidon which is located on a cliff, 70 meters above the Aegean Sea. Apart from this, travelers can go to the beach at the foot of the cliff, enjoy the spectacular sunset, and taste the mouthwatering local seafood.
Travel Time: about 1 hour
Archaeological Site Of Mycenae
The city of ancient Mycenaean civilization is found near the modern Mykines. Today, the archaeological ruins serve as a reminder of the civilization that dominated a part of the Mediterranean world between the 15th and 12th century BC. The fortified acropolis with the nearby structures make up the archaeological site and most of the monuments are from 1350 to 1200 BC. A day trip to the Mycenae site is definitely an unforgettable experience!
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
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FAQ
What is the easiest island to get to from Athens?
Aegina Island.
What is the best island to visit from Athens?
Hydra, Poros, Spetses, or Aegina.
What are the best day trips from Athens?
The best day trips from Athens are:
Archaeological Site Of Delphi;
Ancient Corinth;
Saronic Islands;
Sounion;
Mycenae.
What are the best ancient Greek history sites to visit?
The best archaeological sites to visit in Greece are:
Acropolis & Parthenon, Athens;
Temple of Poseidon, Sounion;
Ancient Corinth, Corinth;
Olympia Archaeological Site, Olympia;
Temple of Apollo, Delphi.
Why was Epidaurus important in the ancient world?
Epidaurus was a popular healing center. Many believed it was a place where Asklepios, a Greek god of medicine, was born.
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