Athens makes a great base for some of Greece’s most famous sites and islands. Here’s how the main day trips compare and how to do each one.
Athens day trips compared
| Day trip | Travel time (one way) | Best for | How |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cape Sounion | ~1.5 h | A sunset temple on the sea | Tour, KTEL bus or car |
| Delphi | 2.5–3 h | Ancient Greece, mountain scenery | Tour, KTEL bus or car |
| Aegina | ~40–75 min by ferry | An easy island, pistachios, the Temple of Aphaia | Ferry from Piraeus |
| Hydra | ~1.5–2 h by fast ferry | A car-free island, a stylish harbour | Ferry from Piraeus, or a 3-island cruise |
| Nafplio & Mycenae | ~2 h | Venetian old town, a Bronze Age citadel | Tour or car |
| Meteora | ~4–5 h | Monasteries on rock pillars | Train or tour, better with an overnight |
Cape Sounion
The marble Temple of Poseidon stands on a cliff at the tip of Attica. Sunset here is one of the classic Greek experiences. Drive the coastal road along the Athens Riviera and stop for a swim on the way. Half-day sunset tours are the easiest option.
Delphi
Once considered the centre of the world, Delphi’s sanctuary of Apollo, its theatre and its stadium sit high on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, with an excellent museum. It’s a long day, so start early, or combine it with the mountain village of Arachova.
Aegina and Hydra
Aegina is the closest real island, with frequent ferries from Piraeus. Hydra has no cars, with donkeys, stone mansions and swimming off the rocks. Popular three-island cruises (Hydra, Poros and Aegina) pack them into one day, but they’re rushed. A single island is more relaxing.
Nafplio and Mycenae
Combine the Lion Gate at Mycenae, the Epidaurus theatre and the pretty seaside town of Nafplio, Greece’s first capital. You’ll stop at the Corinth Canal on the way.
Compare day tours from Athens to Delphi, Sounion and the islands.
Tips
- Check ferry timetables a few days ahead, and check the weather, because strong meltemi winds can disrupt sailings in summer.
- Book Delphi and Meteora tours early in high season.
- Combine day trips with the city sights in our Athens itinerary.
More Athens guides
- Athens travel guide
- 20 best things to do in Athens
- Athens itinerary: 2, 3 or 4 days
- Where to stay in Athens
- Acropolis tickets and the Acropolis Museum
- Athens Airport to the city
- Best time to visit Athens
FAQ: Day trips from Athens
What is the best day trip from Athens?
Delphi for history lovers, Cape Sounion for an easy sunset trip, and Hydra for an island day.
Can you do Delphi and Meteora in one day from Athens?
It’s technically possible on some tours, but it means 10+ hours on the road. Do Delphi as a day trip and Meteora with an overnight stay.
Which island is closest to Athens?
Aegina, about 40–75 minutes from Piraeus depending on the boat. Salamina is even closer, but it’s less visited by tourists.
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