Athens offers plenty of things to keep you on your toes during your stay. Magnificent historical sites of unparallel beauty, a vibrant restaurant scene, bars and clubs that put to shame their counterparts in most European capital. But for nature lovers it can become a nightmare. The parks are few and far between and the constant noise can drive anyone crazy.
What you need to survive is an escape route and that we will provide for you. The sites we suggest are easily accessible by car and are well suited for day trips or longer stay – a long weekend is ideal.
For families
Mount Parnitha National Park
Ideal for a day of leisurely activities, Mount Parnitha National Park provides the perfect scenery for families with young children who don’t want spend long hours in the confines of a car.
In about an hour -depending on the traffic- you are transported in a world of awe-inspiring beauty, the snow-capped Karavola peak (1413m), dark caves, red deer and networks of hiking and mountain biking trails. There’s lodge accommodation onsite if you’d like to stay over and explore fully but it is not highly recommended for young children or elderly people.
In a very short distance you will find plenty of options for food, ranging from taverns for meat lovers -vegeterian options are rare on the menus.
Cape Sounion
Another short distance trip is to Cape Sounion, the most southerly tip of the Attica peninsula, where the Temple of Poseidon oversees the Aegean. It can be reached in about an hour and the views are simply astounding. During summer months you are well advised to take your time for a dive at the local beaches which provide free access though in some cases you need to climb to reach the shore.
In the vicinity you should visit Lavrion, a port city known from ancient times due to the gold and silver mines located in the area. The moning activities lasted till well into the 19th century and there are plenty of historical buildings and some of the tunnels are still intact.
Don’t miss on the local seafood which you can sample in the taverns and cafes lining the port.
For couples
Naphplion
The first capital of the modern Greek state is well worth a visit. On a weekday it takes about two hours to reach the city that lies at the northwestern end of the Argolic Gulf.
The picturesque old town plays host to an eclectic mix of Venetian, Turkish and neo-classical buildings and a stroll through the narrow streets and open squares overhung with bougainvillea, clematis and jasmine makes for a relaxing experience.
There are countless tavernas and bars that provide for nourishment and entertainment that during summer months are overflowing with tourists, both Greeks and foreigners -the town is insanely popular with French visitors.
Perched above the city is the huge Venetian Citadel of the Palamidi and about twenty minutes north by car are the remains of the Citadel of Mycenae, and Tiryns, both of which are a world heritage sites.
Best for a weekend
Mystras
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mystras is a little further south from Athens. Set in a dramatic location on the slopes of the Taygetos mountains, these intricate ruins of a Byzantine castle complex date from the 13th century and afford panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. There are also some lovely Byzantine churches nearby with immaculate decorative frescoes, as well as the nearby Palace of Despots complex which overlooks the valley of Sparta.
Delphi
A trip to Delphi is a must for anyone who visits Greece for the first time. Set on the slopes of Mount Parnassos, it is the place that Zeus marked as the centre of the world and attractions include a hilltop stadium, ancient theatre, and the iconic circular Tholos temple.
Arachova, the village nearby, under the ski resort, is where well heeled Athenians gather during winter weekends to socialize in the numerous tavernas and bars which serve practically everything, from local delicacies to sophisticated creations by famous chefs.
