If you love day trips from Athens, for a quick change of scenery, these destinations are perfect for you. Four suggestions to suit every taste and mood.
Searching for an easy autumn escape? Here are four ideas for day trips near Athensto lift your spirits. A nature getaway on the shores of a lake, an archaeological stroll, or a one-day express trip to an island for ouzo meze by the waves? The choice is yours.
Lake Doxa, Corinthia: For nature lovers
It could be a lake in the Alps, but it is in Greece, specifically in MountainousCorinthia. Near the village ofFeneos, at 900 m elevation, the artificialLake Doxais one of the most beautiful lakes in the Peloponnese. Nothing reveals that you are just two hours from Athens. In the center of the lake stretches a narrow peninsula with the picturesque chapel of Saint Fanourios, while higher up, on a slope about 2 km away, lies the historic 15th-century Monastery of Saint George of Feneos amid gorgeous nature. There, you will taste the monks famous rose spoon sweet and enjoy from the wooden covered balcony the unique view of the lake. The wider area of Doxa and Feneos lends itself to a nature-filled escape with stops in stone-built mountain villages and plenty of outdoor activities (hiking, mountain biking, 4×4, etc.). You can visit the main village of Goura with its old stone-built houses and beautiful square, as well as the villages of Feneos, Kalyvia (Ancient Feneos), Steno and Panorama.
Delphi: For an archaeological stroll
Without the summer heat and tourist crowds, now is the perfect moment to visit one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. For Delphi allow about two and a half hours by car from Athens. It is worth it, though. The enchanting archaeological site lies in a landscape of unique beautyat the foot of Mount Parnassus and is an ideal choice for those who want to take a journey through time and history. This place has a unique serenity and energy. The ancient Greeks considered it the center of the world. Here stood the most important panhellenic oracle of ancient Greece, where the Pythia conveyed Apollos oracles to visitor-pilgrims. After visiting the archaeological site and the museum, take a stroll in the modern town of Delphi, sit down for a meal at one of the little tavernas, and enjoy the wonderful view that reaches as far as Itea and Galaxidi. Depending on your time, you can add stops in Arachova and Galaxidi, and also visit theneighboring village of Chrisso.
Chalkida: For ouzo
A stones throw from Athens, Chalkida is always a great idea for a short escape that includes leisurely seaside strolls and delicious food. The city has plenty of hidden charms and interesting options for everyone. At the entrance to Chalkida you are welcomed by the new impressive cable-stayed (suspension) bridge. The old movable bridge, the Euripus Bridge, is the spot where you can watch the magical crazy waters. The heart of Chalkida beats on the seaside promenade. The waterfront that starts from the Old Bridge and reaches the impressive Red House is full of life. Everyone meets on the seafront road for strolls, coffee, and ouzo. Restaurants serving fresh fish and select meze, as well as lovely bars for the evening, await you here. Dont forget to go up to the Karababa Castle, on the wooded hill above the city, to enjoy the view over the Euboean.
Aegina: For a getaway with an island vibe
The island next door, just 35 minutes by hydrofoil from Piraeus, is one of the most classic and beloved choices for express getaways. With a romantic atmosphere that transports you to another era, picturesque fishing villages, major sights, archaeological monuments, and a pine-covered interior ideal for hiking and strolls, Aegina is wonderful in autumn too. Strolls along the harbor promenade with stops for ouzo meze and pistachio ice cream, excursions into the pine-covered interior toward Agia Marina, walks in Palaiochora, the medieval capital of the island, a visit to the Temple of Aphaia (the view from this point is enchanting), and relaxing over coffee and food in the traditional fishing village of Perdika will fill your itinerary.
