9 of the Best Weekend Getaways from Athens

Just 30 minutes by hydrofoil from Piraeus, Aegina combines rich history with laid-back island charm. Wander past Aegina Town's neoclassical mansions and sample the island's famous pistachios at local markets. You can also take in panoramic views across the Saronic Gulf from the remarkably preserved Temple of Aphaia, which dates from 500 BC and stands as one of Greece's finest examples of Archaic architecture.

Although day trips to this enchanting island are popular, staying a little longer allows you the chance to include visits to the picturesque fishing village of Perdika and the medieval ghost town of Paleochora. The island's proximity to Athens makes it ideal for anyone keen to explore beyond the city, perhaps for some weekend travel while in Greece.

Insider tip: Visit during pistachio harvest season in September to witness traditional farming methods still in use today.

Connected by a narrow strait to the Peloponnese mainland (plied by regular 5-minute ferries), Poros enchants visitors with its lush landscapes and authentic Greek atmosphere. The island's clock tower provides stunning sunset views, while the 18th-century Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi offers insight into Orthodox traditions.

Beach getaways from Athens don't get more scenic than Poros, where Love Bay and Russian Bay boast crystal-clear waters framed by fragrant pine forests. The town's waterfront promenade, lined with traditional tavernas and cafés, creates the perfect setting for romantic evening strolls during weekend trips from Athens.

Four hours north of Athens by car, Meteora ranks among Greece's most awe-inspiring landscapes. Six active monasteries crown the sandstone towers, some of which were accessible only by rope ladders until the 20th century. The Great Meteoron and Varlaam monasteries house priceless Byzantine frescoes and artifacts, all set amid one of the country’s most dramatic settings, where monks have sought spiritual solitude since the 14th century.

If you’re staying overnight, the nearby town of Kalambaka has plenty of comfortable accommodation options, including tavernas serving up traditional Greek cuisine. If this all sounds a little too serene, the area has rock climbing adventures and hiking trails that are ideal for active travelers.

Did you know?: The word "meteora" means "suspended in air" in Greek, which perfectly describes these remarkable geological formations.

A 5-hour journey north reveals Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city—chief among cultural getaways from Athens—where Roman ruins coexist with cutting-edge galleries and bustling markets. The UNESCO–listed Rotunda and Arch of Galerius showcase the city’s Roman past, while the Byzantine walls offer panoramic views.

Weekend trips from Athens allow time to explore Thessaloniki’s dynamic food scene (the city was named the country’s first UNESCO City of Gastronomy), from sugar-and-cinnamon-doused bougatsa pastries to innovative tavernas. The Ladadika District pulses with nightlife, while the Modiano and Kapani markets overflow with regional specialties. For some culture, add visits to the Museum of Byzantine Culture and the poignant Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki to your itinerary.

Just two hours from Athens, Nafplio captivates with its perfectly preserved old town and dramatic fortress setting. The Palamidi Castle, famously accessible via 999 stone steps—though the actual number is closer to 850—rewards climbers with breathtaking views across the Argolic Gulf.

Venetian architecture lines the marble-paved streets, while the Bourtzi Fortress stands sentinel on its tiny island. Nafplio's intimate squares and candlelit tavernas are ideal for those seeking romantic weekend trips from Athens, while the nearby archaeological site of Mycenae and the ancient Theatre of Epidaurus add historical significance to any visit. This nearby destination to Athens combines architectural beauty with accessibility.

Insider tip: Visit the Komboloi Museum to learn about Greece's traditional worry bead culture and perhaps purchase a handcrafted set.

For decades, the pine-scented Hydra has attracted artists and writers—Leonard Cohen once lived and worked here—and island escapes from Athens don't get more sophisticated than this. Located 90 minutes from Piraeus, Hydra boasts 19th-century architecture, a tranquil atmosphere, and an authentic Greek island experience. Donkeys and water taxis provide the only transportation, while the mansions of Hydra Town, built by prosperous sea captains, now house galleries and boutique hotels.

Swimming spots, including Vlychos Beach and Kaminia offer crystal-clear waters, while hiking trails lead to remote monasteries and panoramic viewpoints. The island's artistic legacy continues through contemporary galleries and cultural events hosted throughout the summer months.

Perched on the slopes of Mt. Parnassus, Delphi served as the ancient world's spiritual center, where the priestess Pythia delivered Apollo's prophecies. The archaeological site features the famous Temple of Apollo, a well-preserved theater, and a stadium where the Pythian Games took place. The Delphi Archaeological Museum houses the iconic Charioteer of Delphi and other priceless artifacts, providing profound insights into ancient Greek religion and culture.

While many scenic trips near Athens may offer a combination of historical significance and natural beauty, this setting—with olive groves cascading down mountain slopes toward the Gulf of Corinth—is quite something. The modern town of Delphi offers comfortable amenities and traditional Greek hospitality for those extending their visit.

Two hours from Athens by hydrofoil, Spetses maintains an elegant atmosphere with horse-drawn carriages and grand 19th-century mansions. The island played a crucial role in the Greek War of Independence, which is commemorated in the impressive Bouboulina Museum. You can enjoy a moment of calm at Agioi Anargyroi or Paradise Beach, where crystal-clear waters lap against pine-fringed shores.

After a day of exploring, head to the Old Harbor area, buzzing with waterfront dining and shopping, or to Dapia square—the island's social heart. For those more interested in nature, there are opportunities to explore sea caves by kayak and discover secluded coves accessible only by boat. Speaking of which, boats (as well as your feet) will be your main mode of transportation on Spetses: The island's car-free policy preserves its peaceful ambience and historical character.

Just 90 minutes from Athens, the spa town of Loutraki has attracted wellness seekers since ancient times, thanks to its therapeutic mineral waters. You can visit the modern Thermal Spa Center for luxurious treatments that incorporate the naturally heated springs, while the nearby casino brings evening entertainment. Anyone looking for beach getaways from Athens should head to Loutraki Beach, where you’ll find crystal clear waters and mountain backdrops.

The town also serves as an excellent base for visiting the Corinth Canal, a feat of engineering that connects the Aegean and Ionian seas. Loutraki's combination of relaxation and adventure, with hiking trails in the Geraneia Mountains and water sports on the gulf, makes it the perfect spot for a well-rounded weekend.