An overview of the most popular day trips in Greece:
Day Trip from Athens to Hydra, Poros and Egina
5 Best Day Tours in Greece, Exploring Greece by boat is an experience like no other. With countless stunning Greek islands to choose from, it would be a shame to limit your travels to just the mainland. A one-day boat cruise departing from Athens is the perfect way to see three of the most beautiful islands near Athens: Hydra, Poros, and Egina. Get ready for breathtaking views, fascinating history, and an unforgettable day at sea.
To start your adventure, hop on an air-conditioned coach in Athens and take a quick 20-minute ride to the port of Piraeus. From there, you’ll set sail to your first destination of the day: Poros. Spend an hour or so exploring the island on your own. Take a stroll through the 19th century Russian dockyard known as Trinzia, or simply relax at a waterfront taverna and soak in the stunning scenery.
The next leg of the cruise will commence as we return to the boat, where a delectable lunch will be served at the onboard restaurant. Following a delightful Greek feast, we will reach the enchanting destination of Hydra. The two hours spent in Hydra will pass swiftly as you explore the magnificent Cathedral of Hydra, marvel at the elegant Hydriote mansions that grace the waterfront, or indulge in some retail therapy by perusing the local shops for souvenirs.
Upon returning to the boat, embark on another picturesque cruise towards the third and last island stop of the day: Egina. You have the option to partake in a short excursion to the Temple of Aphaia or simply unwind near the port. Egina offers an idyllic setting to savor a cup of coffee or a glass of wine at a delightful taverna. As you make your way back to Athens from Egina, indulge in a Greek folklore show featuring traditional music and dancing, providing a delightful pastime during the journey.
Santorini Full-Day Sightseeing Tour [SEE MAP]
For those with limited time in Santorini, this tour offers a comprehensive experience of the island’s rich history and breathtaking sights. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll delve into ancient and local history while taking in iconic viewpoints. Be prepared for a full day of exploration as this tour lasts a whopping nine hours!
Experience the ultimate convenience as you get picked up from your hotel and taken directly to the Acrotiri Minoan Archaeological Site by coach. This ancient site dates back over 1,000 years before the Ancient Greeks and is a fascinating place to explore.
Take a break from sightseeing and cool off with a swim in the Aegean Sea at the black sand of Perissa Beach. You can also indulge in some mouth-watering fresh fish dishes at a nearby restaurant for lunch.
Explore the enchanting streets of the traditional Greek village of Oia to experience its captivating charm. For wine enthusiasts, indulge in the delightful experience of wine-tasting at Santo Winery. Additionally, you can relish a few refreshing beverages while witnessing the mesmerizing sunset at a restaurant located here. With an array of other attractions to discover, this day promises to be both extensive and extraordinary.
Mycenae and Epidaurus Day Trip from Athens
From Athens, one can embark on a full day of exploration, immersing oneself in the ancient ruins and historic landmarks that abound. Transported from Syntagma Square in Athens, a comfortable coach journey awaits, offering picturesque views of the Saronic Gulf until reaching the destination of Mycenae.
This hilltop city, once under the rule of King Agamemnon, thrived as a prosperous settlement in ancient Greece during the second millennium BC. Within the confines of Mycenae, visitors will marvel at remarkable structures such as the Mycenae Palace, the Temple of Agamemnon, and the renowned Lion’s Gate. Concluding the tour, a short drive will bring you to Nauplia, a delightful seaport boasting breathtaking vistas of the water.
Epidaurus, the upcoming destination on the schedule, holds significant importance in ancient Greek mythology as it is the birthplace of Asklepios, the god of healing. Although many relics in Epidaurus are now in ruins, they still offer a captivating exploration opportunity. Despite the crumbling state of the buildings in the Sanctuary of Asklepios, they contribute to the overall ambiance. Walking amidst the remains of this once mighty city is an extraordinary and surreal experience, deserving of numerous photographs.
The stunning ancient theater of Epidaurus remains intact amidst the ruins. This colossal theater, built more than 2,400 years ago, is globally acclaimed for its unparalleled beauty and has inspired numerous other theaters in their quest to replicate its extraordinary acoustics. Surprisingly, the Epidaurus theater continues to host performances even today. On the return trip, one can enjoy a scenic 90-minute drive along the picturesque Peloponnese, tracing the path along the Saronic Gulf.
Ancient Delos Tour
Discover the enchanting world of myths and legends by embarking on a mesmerizing excursion to Delos. Whether you have a passion for history or are traveling with kids, this trip is an absolute must-do, as it promises to ignite the imagination of all ages. Depart from the Mykonos port and hop on a boat to the deserted island of Delos, where you’ll be greeted by the awe-inspiring ruins visible from the water. Upon arrival, your knowledgeable guide will lead you on a tour of the island’s remarkable landmarks.
Delos holds great significance as a prominent historical site in Greece, being widely regarded as the birthplace of the revered Greek deities Apollo and Artemis. Alongside various other notable locations on the island, the remnants of the Temple of Apollo stand as a testament to its rich past.
These ruins in Greece are exceptionally well-preserved and offer a wonderful opportunity to escape the bustling beaches and party scene of Mykonos for a day immersed in culture. Additionally, there is a museum on-site where you can leisurely explore and marvel at remarkable ancient artifacts. Moreover, you can indulge in a refreshing drink and a snack at the museum, enhancing your overall experience.
Day Trip from Athens to Delphi is one of the 5 Best Day Tours in Greece
If you have a keen interest in delving into the ancient history of Greece, there are few destinations as fitting as Delphi. Throughout the ages, Delphi held the esteemed title of being the epicenter of the world, underscoring its immense importance. Embarking on a day excursion from Athens to Delphi provides you with the opportunity to delve into ancient archaeology, legends, and culture, all in a pleasant and hassle-free manner.
Upon arrival in Athens, you will be introduced to your tour guide who will accompany you on a private bus journey to Delphi. During the two-hour drive, you will have the opportunity to learn about the historical significance of Delphi, known as the gathering place of Zeus’ eagles, and listen to captivating tales about this remarkable city.
As you gaze out of the window, you will pass through the picturesque towns of Levadia and Arachova. Upon reaching Delphi, your first stop will be the archaeological site, which serves as the focal point of tourism in the area. The ruins offer a captivating experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace and discover iconic landmarks such as the Temple of Apollo and the Ancient Theatre.
Our next destination is the impressive Delphi Archeological Museum. This museum is vast and houses a collection of historical artifacts that are displayed in 15 rooms, arranged in a chronological order. You will embark on a journey that starts from the 15th century BC and progresses forward, admiring famous masterpieces such as the bronze Charioteer of Delphi or the Sphinx of Naxos.
For lunch, we will be stopping at a Delphi hotel where you can indulge in the local culinary delights while enjoying the stunning views of the ruins and the surrounding hills. On the way back to Athens, we will make a brief stop in the town of Arachova, which is the perfect opportunity to…
