Places To Visit Near Athens

Athens is the capital city of Greece and one of the oldest cities in the world. Founded in the Neolithic period, this city was once the epicenter of ancient Greek culture and power. It is home to many historical monuments, such as the Parthenon, the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, that have remained well-preserved for centuries and still draw millions of visitors each year. As the birthplace of democracy and the cradle of Western civilization, Athens offers an incredible wealth of cultural experiences for tourists.

But in addition to its world-famous historical sites and monuments, there are plenty of other places to visit near Athens. From its stunning beaches to its vibrant nightlife, Athens is a great destination for tourists exploring both ancient and modern Greece. Here’s a look at some of the top places to visit near Athens.

The Beaches

Athens is surrounded by some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. From the sandy coves of the Saronic Gulf to the white cliffs of Vouliagmeni and beyond, there are plenty of beaches to explore. The most popular beaches near Athens include Vouliagmeni, Glyfada, Varkiza, Sounio, and Schinias.

Vouliagmeni is a luxurious resort town with crystal-clear waters and stunning natural scenery. With its sandy beaches, chic cafes, and opulent villas, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind. Glyfada is another popular beach destination near Athens, offering miles of sandy beaches, a lively nightlife scene, and plenty of restaurants and bars to explore.

Varkiza is a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, with its strong winds and shallow waters making it ideal for both sports. Sounio is another great spot for watersports lovers, with its long stretch of golden beach perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Finally, Schinias is a great spot for nature lovers, boasting stunning coastal scenery and plenty of hiking trails.

The Islands

Greece is known for its beautiful islands, and there are plenty to explore near Athens. The closest island to Athens is Aegina, located just a 45-minute ferry ride from the city. It’s the perfect place for a day trip from Athens, with its stunning beaches, charming villages, and ancient sites such as the Temple of Aphaia. Other nearby islands include Hydra, Poros, and Spetses, all of which offer a variety of attractions.

Hydra is renowned for its picturesque harbor and laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great place to explore on foot or by boat, with its cobblestone streets lined with charming cafes and shops. Poros is known for its pine-covered hillsides, while Spetses is popular for its pristine beaches and lively nightlife scene. There are plenty of other islands to explore near Athens as well, each offering something unique to discover.

The Monasteries

For those interested in religious sites, there are plenty of monasteries to explore near Athens. One of the most famous monasteries in Greece is located on Mount Athos in northern Greece, about four hours from Athens. This area is home to more than 20 monasteries and numerous churches, making it a must-visit destination for religious travelers.

The Monastery of St Paul is another popular destination near Athens. Located on Zakynthos Island in the Ionian Sea, this monastery was built in 1572 and is known for its stunning architecture and picturesque surroundings. There are also plenty of monasteries throughout mainland Greece that are worth exploring as well.

The Museums

Athens is home to some of the world’s most famous museums, including the Acropolis Museum, which showcases artifacts from ancient Greece; the Benaki Museum, which houses an extensive collection of Greek art; and the National Archaeological Museum, which displays art from all around Greece. In addition to these big-name museums, there are also plenty of smaller galleries and museums worth exploring as well. The Byzantine Museum, the Numismatic Museum, and the Museum of Cycladic Art are just a few of the lesser-known museums near Athens that are worth visiting.

The Nightlife

Athens has a vibrant nightlife scene that’s not to be missed. The city’s many bars, clubs, pubs, and restaurants are bustling with locals and tourists alike who come to enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere. Gazi is one of the most popular nightlife destinations in Athens, with its wide selection of bars, clubs, and restaurants offering something for everyone. Psiri is another popular spot that’s great for dancing the night away in one of the city’s many clubs or lounges.

Book an Acropolis Tour Here

For visitors who want to learn more about Athen’s ancient history on their trip to this city, taking an Acropolis tour is a must. These tours guide visitors through the ancient city’s most iconic sights such as the Parthenon and Temple of Zeus as well as other lesser known monuments. Guides provide commentary on each structure’s history and importance as part of Ancient Greek culture. Tourists also learn about how these structures have been adapted over time to serve different purposes including churches and fortresses. After touring the Acropolis ruins visitors can visit the Acropolis Museum which features displays on the site’s history as well as artifacts that were discovered during excavations such as statues and pottery pieces. Book a tour of this incredible historical site today to learn more about Athens’ fascinating past!

Book a Greek Food Tour Here

For visitors who want to sample some of Greece’s most delicious dishes while exploring this beautiful city, taking a food tour is one way to go about it! These tours offer guests an opportunity to taste authentic Greek dishes such as moussaka (a traditional eggplant casserole), spanakopita (a spinach pie), tyropita (a cheese pie), dolmades (stuffed vine leaves), souvlaki (grilled meat skewers) as well as many other options that Greece has to offer. Tours typically take place at local restaurants where guests will learn about each dish’s ingredients and preparation methods while savoring each bite. In addition to enjoying these tasty dishes guests also get a chance to experience some traditional Greek hospitality as many tours even include live Greek music performances! Don’t miss out on this unique culinary experience on your next visit to Athens!

Book a Wine Tasting Tour Here

Greece is known for its excellent wine-making tradition dating back thousands of years so what better way to experience this than with a wine tasting tour? These tours take guests through some of Greece’s oldest wineries where they can sample some of their finest wines made from grapes grown in local vineyards. During these tours guests will learn about the winemaking process as well as discover unique grape varieties used in Greek wines such as Assyrtiko and Agiorgitiko. They will also get an opportunity to taste some rare vintages including some aged in oak barrels which adds a unique flavor profile. For those wanting to take home an unforgettable souvenir they can even purchase some bottles from these wineries! Take a sip into Greece’s vibrant winemaking culture by booking a wine tasting tour today!