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5 best day trips from Athens

Day trip to Delphi

1. Day trip to Delphi

One of the most important locations of ancient Greece, history lovers cannot miss a trip to Delphi. On the slopes of Mount Parnassus, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a plethora of points of interest to explore. Likely Delphi’s best-known attraction, the 4th-century Temple of Apollo was once the seat of the legendary Oracle of Delphi, and the main source of the town’s wealth and influence. Other fascinating parts of the sanctuary include the theater, the Athenian Treasury, and the elegant columns of the Tholos. Make sure to check out the Archaeological Museum of Delphi to see the treasures unearthed here.

How far is Delphi from Athens?

Plan ahead as there are no trains covering the 162 kilometers (100 miles) from Athens to Delphi. The many available buses can get you there in around three hours. Driving yourself will generally take about two and a half hours, depending on traffic.

Day trip to Mycenae

2. Day trip to Mycenae

Mycenae was a powerful civilization during the Bronze Age, and today is one of the most popular day trips from Athens. Legend has it that Perseus, son of Zeus, was the original founder of this ancient citadel. Travelers can tour this former stronghold and its structures like the Lion Gate, the palace ruins, and the Treasury of Atreus — believed to be the tomb of Agamemnon. Also, be sure to visit the incredible collection of tombs and grave circles.

How far is Mycenae from Athens?

Without train service to Mycenae, traveling the 120 kilometers (74 miles) has to be by road. In a private car, the journey is about two hours, while by bus takes only a bit longer than that.

Day trip to Corinth

3. Day trip to Corinth

One of the many cities with an ancient history, Mycenae is worth the short trip from Athens. The small Corinth Canal separates mainland Greece from the Peloponnese Peninsula and is a favorite stop for adrenaline junkies looking for bungee jumping opportunities. As the home to a number of different rulers and cultures through the years, the archaeological site of Ancient Corinth is a huge draw to the area. See landmarks like the Pirene fountain, legendary watering hole of the mythical Pegasus, the imposing Acrocorinth, and the Temple of Apollo.

How far is Corinth from Athens?

Located across the Isthmus of Corinth, the city is just 83 kilometers (51 miles) from Athens. The drive takes around an hour by car and 90 minutes by bus.

Day trip to Epidaurus

4. Day trip to Epidaurus

Head out of the big city to the intriguing UNESCO World Heritage Site of Epidaurus. As the home of the sanctuary of the healing god Asclepius, Epidaurus was once a major healing center in Greece. Visitors today can still see the ancient sanctuary, as well as the incredible Theatre of Epidaurus, which is still in use today. The Archaeological Museum of Epidaurus dates back to 1909 and is another worthy stop to examine the artifacts excavated from the area.

How far is Epidaurus from Athens?

Head 126 kilometers (78 miles) around the Saronic Gulf from Athens to get to Epidaurus. By car, the travel time is around 90 minutes, while buses take around two hours.

Day trip to Nafplio

5. Day trip to Nafplio

For people looking to escape the bustle of Athens for a day, charming Nafplio is a breath of fresh air. From the Acronauplia (the oldest part of the city) atop the hill, the picturesque seaside town spills down into the blue waters below. Stroll the inviting streets in between visiting places like the Venetian fortress of Palamidi, Bourtzi Castle sitting atop an island in the harbor, or the ancient fort of Tiryns. For some relaxation, soak up the sun on Arvanitia Beach.

How far is Nafplio from Athens?

It will take a little over 90 minutes to drive the 136 kilometers (84 miles) from Athens. Allow more time if taking the bus, as the trip takes around two and a half hours.

Athens day trip FAQ

What transportation option is best for my day trip?

With so many different buses, routes, and recommendations, planning the transportation for your day trip may seem like all Greek to you. We’re happy to help you sort out your travel plans.

  • • Athens day trips by train

    Greece’s train service is not extensive, and in some areas non-existent. For many day trips, the train is not a viable option. If you do venture somewhere by train, remember you need to have a reservation to board.

  • • Athens day trips by bus

    Without a car, the bus is your only choice for many day trip destinations. Buses to more popular areas and attractions are frequent, and drive times aren’t much longer than by car.

  • • Athens day trips by car

    A car is often the best choice for making day trips around Athens. You can set your own itinerary and go at your own pace.

Should I take a guided tour for my day trip?

With so much to learn and see all over Greece, a guided tour is a fantastic idea. With a guide, you don’t miss out on any of the fascinating histories of the ancient cities and towns. A tour also can help you avoid the need to figure out the bus or navigating the roads yourself.

What should I pack for my day trip?

The Mediterranean climate means it will never get too chilly, but an extra layer in winter months is still a good idea. While many guided tours will provide everything you need, carrying plenty of water is always advisable.

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What people are saying about Athens

Overall rating

4.4 / 5

based on 2,399 reviews

The tour was great and especially Georg was a great driver. We felt very safe and well accompanied. He was very nice and gave his best so that we could enjoy the trip very much. Even if he was not hired as a tour guide he told us a lot. But the best was, he was there when we needed him but we also had enough freedom to take our one time when and where. The lunch was really good with a great view of Delphi and the archaeological site of Delphi was so great - for us a must see. We loved it. We definitely can recommend this tour.

From Athens: Private Road Trip to Delphi Reviewed by Eva, 10/29/2020

Helpful?

This is an excellent tour. The boat is fabulous, very comfortable, spacious and clean. Chilled out music, relaxed atmosphere and stunning scenery. The crew are excellent- very professional and friendly. George, our guide was very friendly and helpful. Great food, plenty of drinks and coffee. The whole day passed by very quickly. Great value, highly recommend. Best to book pick up in the morning, as the meeting point would be difficult to find.

Athens: Full Day Tour & Sailing to Agistri, Moni & Aegina Reviewed by Jacqueline, 10/7/2020

Helpful?

Anastasia was an amazing tour guide, switching between Spanish and English flawlessly. Not only did we learn about Delphi, but also Greek history, culture, food and geography, and she gave us ideas for what to visit in Athens. Lunch was also amazing as well, with amazing Greek food and friendly service. Would highly recommend

Delphi Guided Day Trip from Athens Reviewed by Emily, 10/12/2020

Helpful?

Very Interesting places. . Learned a lot on Greek past. Our guide BIll was VERY helpful. Told us many interesting myth Greek stories and gave us a lot of interesting information of every place in the way. He also stopped the car for us in interesting places in the way with amazing photo spots !

From Athens: Bus Trip to Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio Reviewed by Tal, 11/3/2020

Helpful?

In general it was good. However, as much as I enjoy all the stories and intros to the site, I would also like to have sometime wandering around myself. I guess that's just not the policy of a group tour.

Delphi Guided Day Trip from Athens Reviewed by Anonymous, 10/22/2020

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