12 top destinations near Athens for 2024
In this list I recommend 12 nearby destinations in Athens that you can visit at any time of the year. I have included mountainous and seaside places, secular and peaceful, romantic and family so that everyone can find what suits them.
1. Mountainous Arkadia: Dimitsana - Stemnitsa - Vytina - Lagadia
Dimitsana
I start with four villages in mountainous Arkadia that are well-known for their picturesqueness and nature, they are close to each other and you can go from a one-day trip to a three-day trip depending on what you want.
First in line is the main village of Mainalo mountain Vytina known for the square with the picturesque church Agios Tryfonas where you can sit for a coffee. Also known for the street of love, an alley with plane trees on both sides, ideal for a pleasant walk.
I have singled out Klimataria tavern for its traditional cuisine with local meats and vegetables as well as the cozy atmosphere offered by the fireplace.
Next is Dimitsana, a historic village connected to the 1821 Revolution, built on a hill overlooking the uniquely beautiful Lousios river gorge. Sit down for a coffee in the dollhouse cafes and walk along the picturesque cobbled streets to discover the hidden corners with the best of the imposing clock and the church of Agia Kyriaki.
It is worth visiting the Open-Air Water Power Museum to see how running water powered the workshops of the time and made gunpowder, the impressive Prodromou Monastery hanging on the rocks inside the gorge and the Moni Filosofou. If you want to see the river up close, visit the Atsicholos bridge near the village of the same name.
A short distance from Dimitsana is Stemnitsa, another picturesque village with cobbled streets, stone mansions and old churches. Visit the folklore museum which is housed in an old mansion and hosts exhibits from everyday life.
I recommend an excellent family tavern, Zerzova. All traditional and local, meats, cheeses, vegetables and with a view of the gorge.
The tour of mountainous Arkadia ends at Lagadia, a place where the local stone masons left marvelous works with the most representative being the Taxiarches of 1808 and the Gymnasium of 1868. Another thing it is known for is the large slope that reaches 70 degrees and gives an impressive view of the gorge. With this view, enjoy traditional food in Chiakhtai in a cozy and very nice environment.
The hotels I recommend in mountainous Arkadia are:
- (€€) En Dimitsani (⭐ 9.1) luxurious traditional guest house just outside Dimitsana with cozy interiors and easy parking
- (€€) Archontiko Deligianni (⭐ 9.5) an authentic 18th century stone mansion that belonged to 19th century prime minister Theodoros Deligiannis
- (€€) Mparoutomulos (⭐ 9.5) a luxurious and very comfortable hotel with an amazing view of Lousios gorge
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The activity that I have singled out in Arkadia is the all-day hiking in the mountain villages of Parnonas such as Pigadi, Poulithra, Kosmas and Tsintzina. Hike in the wild nature of Parnon in a landscape of absolute contrast between mountain and sea.
For more information or to book follow the link below.
2. Kalavryta
A rather popular mountain destination 2½ hours drive from Athens ideal for both short getaways and two days.
The best experience is to take the rack railway to cross the Vouraikos gorge to see the beautiful natural scenery and the river flowing through the gorge.
Be sure to visit the memorial at the place of execution and the Kalavryta Holocaust Museum to learn about the massacre of 1943.
Kalavryta has a tradition in sweets and this is due to two pastry shops that have very high standards, Tzoura - Avramopoulou and Ermeidi. Try the spoon sweets rodozahari, sweet rose, petrokeraso and wild cherry, of course many more are prepared with pure ingredients and flavors that you will remember for a long time.
You can also buy Helmos products such as cheeses, honeys, oregano and others which are known for their excellent quality.
Two well-known attractions are also the monastery Mega Spilaio with a history from the 4th century and the Cave of the Lakes with impressive stalactites that look like curtains and on the floor formations like small water tanks.
In the winter the interest moves to the ski resort which even if you are not a fan of skiing be sure to go to see the snow-capped mountain peaks up close, play a snowball fight and drink a hot coffee in the chalet.
If you have time, visit the nearby village Planitero to see the plane tree forest crossed by the Aroanios river. There enjoy food in the square with the plane trees.
The hotels I recommend in Kalavryta are:
- (€€) Kalavrita Canyon Hotel & Spa (⭐ 9.1) affordable luxury in a central yet quiet part of Kalavryta
- (€€) Chalet Azanias (⭐ 9.7) luxurious hotel with a swimming pool overlooking Kalavryta
- (€) Saint George Apartments (⭐ 9.4) fully equipped apartments with stone cladding in the center of Kalavryta
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3. Trikala in Corinthia
The nearest mountain destination to Athens just 2 hours away, ideal for a quick getaway. Three districts with houses made of stone and wood blend harmoniously with the mountainous nature and give the opportunity to enjoy food, coffee and sweets in peace. It is what you need for relaxation as there are plenty of hostels, many of which are wooden like in a Scandinavian country.
In winter the fireplaces catch fire and so do the kitchens in the taverns. I recommend Pinakoti in Messaia Trikala with excellent traditional food, fireplace, cozy environment and view, as well as Platanos in Kato Trikala.
The Zireia ski resort is relatively small but even if you are not a skier you can go for a coffee at the chalet to see the snowy scenery. The slopes are easy and are a good opportunity for young children to get familiar with winter sports.
It is worth visiting the Dasiou lake higher than Trikala in a beautiful landscape in the fir trees. To see enough water in the lake the best time is winter and spring.
The hotels I recommend in Trikala in Corinthia are:
- (€€) Levanta Guesthouse (⭐ 9.5) a very nice traditional guest house made with stone and wood in the middle district
- (€€) Archontiko Fiamegou (⭐ 9.3) traditional guest house in the countryside
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4. Arachova - Delphi
The most popular mountain destination in all of southern Greece is located at the foot of Parnassus and is ideal to visit at any time of the year.
Arachova is traditional with stone-built houses, cobblestones and a nice view of the Delphic landscape. It is also known as Mykonos and the queen of winter. It has earned these nicknames because it offers countless options to stay, dining and entertainment. It is probably the only mountain destination where you can eat seafood, so it has something of the madness of Mykonos.
You will find food for all tastes from traditional to gourmet. I recommend Dasargyris, the oldest tavern in Arachova, now run by the grandsons of the founder. Nightlife is of course elevated with several options in bars and night clubs. Hotel options range from simple to luxurious, depending on how much money you want to spend. With all that I have described you understand why Arachova is a real winter hangout.
Points of interest are the clock which is the landmark of Arachova and the Agios Georgios church both with amazing views.
In winter, the Parnassos ski resort becomes a landing point for Athenian skiers who go to test their skills on the difficult slopes. Even if you are not a skier you can go for a coffee in the chalet which is the largest of all ski resorts.
Be sure to visit the archaeological site and museum of Delphi to see the most important oracle of Ancient Greece and the dedications made to it by the ancients.
If you start from Athens I recommend the Delphi & Arachova day trip with guide. It includes a visit to Delphi archaeological site, the museum and Arachova.
The hotels I recommend in Arachova are:
- (€) Likoria Hotel (⭐ 8.8) choose it for affordable luxury and unobstructed mountain views
- (€) Patriko (⭐ 8.8) a traditional stone guesthouse with apartments with fireplaces in a central location
- (€) Parnassos Delphi Hotel (⭐ 8.7) the central hotel of Delphi
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5. Ermioni
A different getaway because although on land, the architecture is island-like and you think you are on an island. Incomparably beautiful and picturesque, it brings you in connection with the sea giving you the opportunity to fill your lungs with sea air. In Bisti forest walk to discover ruins of ancient towers, an ancient temple and a restored windmill. The view, of course, is indescribable.
To see how impressive Ermioni is climb to Agios Gerasimos to photograph the view. The windmill above was a bar but it closed after the financial crisis.
To eat choose the famous taverns Ganosis, Spyrandreas and Tzieris that offer excellent dishes made with fine ingredients. There are other places too for crepes, waffles and ice cream.
If you have enough days you can visit Hydra to explore the historical settlement. You can go there either from Ermioni port by ferry or by sea taxi from the small port Metochi, half an hour's drive from Ermioni.
An unknown aspect of Ermioni is that in ancient times it was one of the few cities that worshiped Hades and this because according to tradition the abduction of Persephone took place in the terrible narrow pass Katafyki. I refer extensively to this article, whether you go or not it is worth it to read it.
This has fueled local legends such as the witch Furka who lived in Katafyki or the fairy Vitoriza who lived in a cave in Bisti and brought bad luck to Ermionites. I think it's worth mentioning that the Taxiarches church, which was an ancient temple of Demeter, is connected too because Taxiarches are the soul transporter angels who carry souls to heaven.
The hotels I recommend in Ermioni are:
- (€€) Makis Inn Resort (⭐ 9.3) whatever I say about this apartment complex is little. It is located in a peaceful seaside location in an olive grove, with a private beach and a restaurant by the sea with authentic greek flavors with pure ingredients. The ultimate spot for relaxation!
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The activity I recommend to Ermioni is olive oil tasting and how to learn from a certified sommelier how to distinguish good oil.
For more information or to book follow the link below.
6. Nafplio
Nafplio is always among the most romantic and charming destinations in Greece. Although it is seaside it must not discourage you from visiting it at any time of the year. In fact, the best time to go is anytime besidesf summer because the heat and the crowds don't let you to enjoy it.
Picturesque alleys, neoclassical buildings and the colourful bougainvilleas which are blooming in the spring make up the scene along with the famous historical sights such as Palamidi, the sea castle Bourzi which was the port guard and Akronafplia. The most photographed spot in the city is a gate in Akronafplia that looks south into the Argolic Gulf.
Inside the city discover the two most historic churches Agios Georgios where Kapodistrias funeral took place in 1831, king Otto was accepted in 1833 and the Venetian general Francesco Morosini in 1686. Also the Virgin Mary church is open until late at night for a candle.
In addition to the historical monuments Nafplio also hosts many museums such as the Archaeological Museum, the War Museum, the Folklore Museum that allow visitors to explore the city's past even more. Also visit the place of assassination of the governor Ioannis Kapodistrias in Agios Spyridon church.
One of the most romantic spots is considered the trail of Arvanitia, a seaside paved path that puts you in a position to gaze at the entire Argolic Gulf.
You will find many restaurants and taverns, but the best is Pidalio, just outside the old town in the Pronia area on 25th Martiou street.
The hotels I recommend in Nafplio are:
- (€€) Nafsimedon hotel (⭐ 9.1) a historic mansion of 1880 with vintage furniture, lovely garden, view of Kolokotronis park and homemade breakfast
- (€€) Aetoma hotel (⭐ 9.8) an authentic 19th century neoclassical mansion in Agios Spyridon square, in a central but peaceful location
- (€€) Amymone & Adiante (⭐ 9.0) rooms decorated by the Italian artist Francesco Moretti
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In Nafplio choose the tour I organize to major but unknown ancient sightseeings of Argolis. The stops are:
- Fichti blockhouse an excellently preserved and enigmatic fortress near Mycenae
- Argos castle Argos is one of the oldest cities in Europe and what best describes its castle is that civilizations have built one upon the other
- Pyramid the only pyramid in Europe is located south of Argos. Its use and dating are disputed
- Lerna marsh visit the place where Hercules performed his second labor by exterminating the terrible beast Lernaean Hydra
- mycenaean Tomb of Tiryns the excellently preserved tomb of the mycenaean kingdom of Tiryns. It is assumed that it belonged to a king
- mycenaean Kazarma bridge the oldest bridge in Europe aged 3,250 years. Maybe of the whole world
Take advantage of the opportunity because there is no other tour that visits even one of these sightseeings. For more information or if you are interested to book, visit Get Your Guide at the link below:
7. Nafpaktos - mountainous Nafpaktia
A castle is the whole of Nafpaktos that starts from the mountain top and descends to the city to enclose it and embrace the port. An experience unlike any other in Greece. Stopping for a coffee at the harbour is a must to enjoy the sight, you will hardly have another chance to drink coffee inside a castle.
A very nice city with a traditional and humane character while its vibrancy is a pleasant surprise. Discover the places, restaurants, cafes and bars in the picturesque narrow market. I found the night life to be unexpectedly elevated with satisfactory options for entertainment and food.
Go up to the castle to admire, among other things, the amazing view of the city and the Gulf of Corinth that reaches the Rio - Antirio bridge. Also see Sideroporta, Fetihie Mosque and Botsaris Tower with exhibits about the naval battle of Nafpaktos. These are all very activities suitable for children.
If you want to visit a mountain, take a trip to the mountainous Nafpaktia, which is known for its dense forests and small villages. The main village is Ano Chora at an altitude of 1,050 meters for peaceful walks in a picturesque setting with stone-built houses. A spot for photos is the old KTEL bus that once ran the route Nafpaktos - Ano Chora.
The hotels I recommend in Nafpaktos:
- (€€) Nafpaktos hotel (⭐ 9.0) a very good choice in a 3-star hotel, a few minutes walk from the port
- (€) Castellmare (⭐ 9.5) if you want to stay on the harbor then choose it, not only for the view but also for the very nice old-style furniture
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8. Aegina
Here is an island on the list that is closer and more picturesque than several of the destinations I mention. Just an hour away from Athens by ferry, it's the perfect place for a short getaway any time of the year.
The Aegina port is the big attraction with neoclassical buildings that create a setting that travels you back in time. The best time is the sunset which will really charm you and if you are sitting on a neoclassical balcony at that time it is the best place to enjoy it.
To add romance take a carriage ride to see Aegina from this angle as well.
Leave the port to discover the lively picturesque alleys with traditional taverns, small shops and beautiful corners. Try the pistachio and sweets based on it, at the Fystikato store which is the best of its kind. Especially the peanut flavoured ice cream tastes amazing.
Notable points of Aegina are the Agia Triada monastery where is there the tomb of Saint Nektarios, one of the most miraculous modern saints, and the Aphaia Athena ancient temple, a temple - landmark of ancient sacred geography with many hidden meanings and symbolism.
The hotels I recommend in Aegina are:
- (€€€) Ulrika Hotel (⭐ 8.8) in a quiet location with an amazing sea view just outside Aegina town
- (€€) Rastoni Hotel (⭐ 9.4) a hotel in an estate with peanut trees, with warm spaces dominated by wood, sea view, just outside Aegina city
- (€) Hotel Aegina (⭐ 8.5) a hotel with elegant rooms in the city center very close to the port
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Learn all the secrets about the pistachio tree and pistachios and try snacks.
For more information or to book follow the link below.
9. Chalkida
A quick getaway especially for the residents of the northern suburbs of Athens as in less than an hour they can enjoy beautiful moments by the sea.
The endless promenade of Chalkida is a great place to enjoy coffee and eat with a view of the sea in the heart of the city. I recommend Eubous, a gourmet restaurant with tables on Evripos strait, specializing in cuts of meat.
You will also notice the impressive natural phenomenon that the sea currents run fast and change direction every six hours. This is due to the tides caused by the sun-moon gravity contrast and the rate at which the level difference between the northern and southern Euboean gulfs expands. Because the passage is very narrow the water literally "runs" to fill the level differences. That's why it got the nickname "crazy waters". It was also studied by the ancients.
It is worth mentioning that during the Venetian rule, Chalkida was a walled city called Negroponte, black bridge in italian, it was a city like Monemvasia. Sights of this period are the historic Agia Paraskevi church and the folklore museum housed in the bastion of this castle.
The most important attraction of the city is the Ottoman castle Karambaba which has the best view towards Chalkida and hosts an exhibition space.
If you have time, visit the nearby village Nea Artaki for a stroll in the peaceful harbour with the boats.
The hotels I recommend in Chalkida are:
- (€€) John's hotel (⭐ 9.0) one of the top choices to stay, just a few meters from the Evripos strait
- (€€) Lucy Hotel (⭐ 7.9) if you want a view of the Evripos strait it is by far the best choice
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10. Loutraki
Another very close destination to Athens at a distance of 1 hour, it is an excellent destination for short getaways. It is well-known for its long pebble beach and enchanting sunsets.
In Loutraki everything takes place around the beach. On the pedestrian street all the shops are lined up giving the opportunity for walks and for coffee and food by the sea. The main attraction is the man-made waterfalls which are a popular photo spot.
It is worth visiting the Osios Patapios monastery in the Geraneia mountains with a view of Loutraki and the Corinthian gulf. Osios Patapios lived in the 4th century and was buried in Constantinople when, with the fall of 1453, his body was moved to a cave in Loutraki, where it was forgotten over the centuries. It was found again in 1904.
The hotels I recommend in Loutraki are:
- (€€) Club Hotel Casino Loutraki (⭐ 8.6) not just a stay but a unique experience in this 5-star hotel. It is primarily a casino-hotel, the well-known Loutraki casino, and has swimming pools, a beach and restaurants
- (€€) Pappas Hotel (⭐ 8.5) a hotel in an idyllic location just outside Loutraki with a private beach. A very good choice if you are looking for tranquility and connection with nature
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11. Xylokastro
Very close destination in Corinth, ideal for a one-day getaway from the capital city Athens. There are many cafes and restaurants along the beach where you can enjoy a coffee or a meal overlooking the sea.
Children can go on activities by cycling in the driving training park, while another activity is a walk on the beautiful paths of the Pefkias pine forest.
The hotels I recommend in Xylokastro:
- (€) Hotel Kyani Akti (⭐ 9.4) a small hotel in a prime spot on the beach and very close to the center. Very nice decoration, simple and very neat
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12. Nea Styra in Evia
Once it was a small fishing village but today thanks to its natural beauties it has developed into a destination that offers a pleasant getaway by the sea.
The promenade runs along the coast and is lined with cafes and taverns where you can enjoy traditional flavours and seafood.
Higher up the mountain is worth visiting the Dragon Houses, these enigmatic ancient structures linked to ancient legends and traditions and so far no answer has been found as to what their use was.
Access to Nea Styra is by ferry boat through the Agia Marina port near Marathon of Athens.
The hotels I recommend in Nea Styra are:
- (€) Castello Rosso Hotel ( 8.6) a very good choice to stay in the countryside just outside Nea Styra
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* If you find the information useful, you can book your stay or your activity through the affiliate links so I can earn a small commission and continue writing more useful content.
