Athens makes an excellent base for day trips. In a single day you can stand among ancient temples outside the city, walk in the mountains or spend time on two Saronic islands. Here are some of the best options.
Ancient sites beyond the city
Delphi
Delphi was home to the oracle of Apollo and was once thought of as the centre of the world. Its ruins sit on the slopes of Mount Parnassus among olive trees, and the site makes a full day out from Athens.
Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon
The Temple of Poseidon stands on the headland of Cape Sounion, at the southern tip of Attica, above the Aegean. The coast road from Athens follows the Athens Riviera, and many visitors time their trip for sunset.
Nature: Parnitha National Park
A short distance from the city centre, Parnitha National Park offers forests, trails and mountain views. It suits visitors who want to hike or simply get out of the city for a day.
The islands: Aegina and Agistri
Aegina is known for its harbour town, its pistachios and the Temple of Aphaia. Agistri, next door, is small and green, with pine forests and sandy and pebbly beaches. Both are close enough to Athens to visit in one day.
Staying in the city?
The Acropolis, the Ancient Agora and the National Archaeological Museum are in central Athens rather than day trips. Our Ancient Athens guide covers them, so you can keep your day trips for further afield.
A day on the Saronic Gulf with BestCruise
Our day cruise runs daily from April to October. It leaves Marina Zeas in Piraeus at 09:00 for free time on Agistri and Aegina and a swim stop chosen by the crew for the weather. A Greek lunch and unlimited beer, wine and soft drinks are included, and you are back around 19:00.