Six great day trips from Athens | Traveler by Unique
Delphi
One of the top day trips is the one that includes visits to the infamous site of Delphi. The location is listed in the list of UNESCO as a World Heritage Site due to its importance throughout the ages and its remarkable history in Ancient Greece. In Delphi, visitors can visit the Temple of Apollo and the Oracle of Delphi that used to be the home of Pythia. The area hosts an archaeological museum that exhibits numerous items of great importance such as the Sphinx of Naxos. This day trip is an excellent option for those who wish to combine sightseeing and natural landscape. The area of Delphi is surrounded by dramatic and imposing cliffs where small charming villages can be found. From the top of the mountains, visitors are able to observe breath-taking view over the archaeological site and over the olive trees that can be found in the nearby area. Traditional taverns can also be found there which offer mouth-watering recipes in an exclusive and charming setting.
Aegina Island
Despite the fact that Athens features some pretty impressive beaches, visitors are often thirsty for experiencing the real island feeling. For those who wish to get away from the crowds and visit a Greek island, the easiest way to do it is by taking a ferry towards the island of Aegina. Located in the Saronic Gulf, the island’s close proximity with Athens makes it an ideal day trip destination for both, locals and visitors. Aegina is known for having an interesting architectural design with emblematic neoclassical houses and charming neighborhoods. The island is known for having one of the best varieties of pistachio in Greece, therefore visitors are able to enjoy delicious local delicacies and explore the island’s gastronomy. It also has to be noted that the island has one of Greece’s most notable ancient sites, the Temple of Aphaia. Finally, beautiful beaches with crystal clear waters await visitors to enjoy a truly memorable experience. Aegina is definitely a great day trip from Athens as it combines everything needed for a relaxing and adventurous day.
Cape Sounion
This day trip is one of the most idyllic and romantic getaway options that visitors are able to experience while in Athens. Enjoy a ride along the infamous Athenian Riviera and observe some of Athens most beautiful and luxurious area. At a point, the ride will drive you towards the imposing Temple of Poseidon which is located at an area called Cape Sounio. The Temple stands majestically on a cliff and overlooks the azure shades of the Saronic Gulf. The best time to visit the area is during the sunset as the colours of the sea offer to the area a flawless charm like no other. Cape Sounio has some spectacular beaches for those who wish to enjoy swimming into the waters of the Aegean Sea. In general, the area considers being one of the most extravagant and lavish locations around Athens hence, multiple fine dining options can be found there which will complement your experience and pamper your needs.
Meteora
A day trip to Meteora will be the most suitable option for those who wish to experience from first-hand the beauty of nature and for those who wish to enjoy a journey in time. The area is known for having some emblematic and important Byzantine Monasteries which are built on the cliffs’ edges. The dramatic scenery will take your breath away as the monasteries are surrounded by splendid nature. This day trip offers to visitors a sense of relaxation and peace of mind. The beautiful landscape along with the serenity of the area will be a truly unique memory from your holidays.
Hydra Island
Just two hours away from the vibrant Athenian atmosphere, visitors are able to reach via a ferry boat, one of Greece’s most charming and authentic islands, Hydra. The island of Hydra offers a splendid combination of a lavishing cosmopolitan atmosphere with an authentic island style. The scenery is truly inspirational and spectacular as whitewashed houses and narrow streets are among the island’s main characteristics. One of the most interesting highlights is that Hydra allows no cars or motorcycles. This particular fact offers a quiet and tranquil setting for relaxing and rejuvenating holidays. As an excellent getaway option, Hydra has some charming beaches ideal for privacy. Moreover, the island has multiple museums, galleries and preserved houses that used to be owned by the most important figures of the Greek Revolution. This outstanding island is a preferred destination for the wealthy Athenians and yachts’ owners due to its unparalleled beauty and charm.
Halkida
The city of Halkida is found on the channel that divides Greece’s mainland from the island of Evia. Within a few-hour drive, visitors are able to immerse themselves into the beauty and the charm of a small city close to Athens and enjoy a pleasant and enjoyable day trip. The city is known for experiencing a truly unique natural phenomenon. More precisely, every six hours, the waters that wash the city are changing flow and visitors are able to observe this change. Halkida, as a seaside city, has some beautiful beaches which are ideal for swimming and relaxation under the Greek sun. Fine seaside restaurants and multiple lavishing beach bars are some of the elements that will make your experience truly unique as they serve fresh fishes and refreshing cocktails.