Sounio, Nafplio, Aegina, Hydra, Agistri, Spetses – the Most Beautiful Short Getaways Near the City
Athens has plenty to offer, but sometimes you just need a quick change of scenery.
If you’re in the capital and feel like escaping for a while – whether you have a car or not – here are six excellent options for a day trip, all just a breath away.
🌅 Sounio – Sunset with Ancient Grandeur
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Distance: ~70 km (~1 hr & 15 min by car)
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Getting there: By car or from Nomismatokopio Metro Station (Line 3)
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What to see: The impressive Temple of Poseidon standing proudly on the cliff, with the Aegean Sea as its backdrop. A perfect spot for a magical sunset.
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What to do: Take a swim at nearby beaches (KAPE, Legrena, Sounio, Pountazeza) and enjoy fresh seafood at a seaside taverna.
🏛 Nafplio – Romantic Stroll in the Old Town
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Distance: ~140 km (~1 hr & 45 min by car)
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Getting there: By car or with KTEL Argolidas buses (~2 hrs)
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What to see: Palamidi Fortress, Bourtzi Castle, cobblestone streets, neoclassical houses, and flower-filled alleyways.
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What to do: Grab an ice cream and walk along the port, climb the steps to Palamidi, visit museums, and enjoy lunch at a traditional taverna.
🚢 Aegina – An Island for a Day
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Distance: ~40 min by high-speed ferry/flying dolphin or ~75 min by ferry (car transport available)
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Getting there: From Piraeus Port to Aegina Port
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What to see: Seaside cafés, the Temple of Aphaia, the Monastery of Saint Nektarios, and picturesque villages.
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What to do: Rent a bike, swim at Agia Marina or Perdika, shop for pistachios and seafood meze.
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Extra Tip: Rent a scooter to explore the island easily and quickly.
⛵ Hydra – The Lady of the Saronic Gulf
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Distance: ~70 min by ferry
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What to see: A charming town with no cars, traditional mansions, museums, and small coves for swimming.
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What to do: Take a donkey ride, hike to Kamini or Mandraki, and enjoy coffee with panoramic views.
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Extra Tip: Visit the Sunset Bar for a one-of-a-kind sunset experience.
🌴 Agistri – A Tiny Tropical Paradise
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Distance: ~1 hr by high-speed ferry/flying dolphin or ~1.5 hrs by ferry (car transport available)
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Getting there: From Piraeus Port to Skala or Megalochori Port
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What to see: Pine trees touching the sea, crystal-clear waters, beaches for relaxation and activities.
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What to do: Swim at Dragonera, Chalikiada, or Aponisos, hike through the pine forest, try pedal boating, or explore with an e-bike.
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Extra Tip: Rent a bike in Megalochori – zero emissions, 100% views!
⚓ Spetses – Elegance and Aromas
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Distance: ~2 hrs by high-speed ferry (no car transport)
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Getting there: From Piraeus Port to Spetses Port
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What to see: Neoclassical buildings, aristocratic atmosphere, the House of Bouboulina, pine-covered beaches, horse-drawn carriages instead of cars.
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What to do: Stroll around Dapia, swim at Agia Marina beach, dine at the Old Port, and visit the Bouboulina Museum.
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Extra Tip: Take a water taxi around the island – the caves and hidden coves are pure magic!
👉 Take your sunglasses, bring a good mood… and don’t forget to come back!


