The best Christmas getaways up to 2 hours away from Athens. Enchanting mountain villages and romantic towns for last minute escapes.
Christmas is just around the corner and many have already planned their holidays, but there are also those who prefer a last-minute approach and are looking for nearby destinations for express getaways - even for a festive day trip. Travelgo.gr suggests 4 wonderful destinations for Christmas, a breath away from Athens, that cater to every taste.
Trikala Korinthias
The Trikala Korinthias with their three picturesque districts (Kato, Mesaia and Ano Trikala) and enchanting nature, is an ideal destination for those who want a very well-organized mountain destination, with many accommodation options for every budget and taste. Dense forests of wild cypresses and black pines, tranquil lakes, stone-paved squares, cozy guesthouses and little tavernas serving good food create the perfect festive setting, just two hours away from Athens. If you have time, be sure to include short excursions in your itinerary around the area to see the beautiful artificial Lake Doxa, as well as the mythical Lake Stymphalia.
Nafplio
The beautiful old town of Nafplio is ideal for Christmas strolls with an air of another era. Neoclassical mansions, Venetian architecture, cobbled lanes and flower-filled balconies create a setting that enchants with its beauty and history. Your day will be filled with walks across the stone-paved Syntagma Square, along the main pedestrian street of Vasileos Konstantinou with its countless shops, on Staikopoulou Street with its many tavernas, on the seafront promenade of Bouboulina, and in Psaromahala, the oldest quarter of the city. To admire the city from above, you will need to climb the legendary 999 steps (in reality it is a little fewer) up to Palamidi, which rises on a huge grey rock. The more romantic will be thrilled with the walk along the path of Acronafplia overlooking the waters of the Argolic Gulf.
Arachova
If you are looking for a destination that combines the magic of the mountains with cosmopolitan life and a festive atmosphere, then there is only one choice and that is none other thanArachova. Perched on the ridge of Parnassos, at 950 meters elevation, a breath away from the countrys largest ski center, this stately town of Boeotia is indisputably the perennial favorite of winter. Lakka Square is the ultimate meeting point, with shops and all day spots for coffee, dessert and drinks. At a distance of 10 km. from Arachova lies Livadi. The Parnassos plateau that was once pastureland with huts and pens has been transformed into a small, almost town-like place with beautiful chalets, traditional stone-built villas, tavernas and cafes. When it snows, the scenery becomes magical.
Chalkida
Just a short hop (78 km.) from Athens, Chalkida is always a lovely idea for a short escape that includes relaxed seaside strolls. A festive getaway will give you the chance to discover the charm of this city that has quite a few hidden beauties and interesting options for everyone. The heart of Chalkida beats along theseafront promenade. The waterfront that starts from the Old Bridge and reaches the impressive Red House is full of life. Everyone meets on the coastal road for strolls, coffee and a little ouzo. Restaurants serving fresh fish and select meze, as well as nice bars for the evening, await you here. Do not miss going up to theKarababa Castle, on the wooded hill above the city, to enjoy the view over the Euboean Gulf.
