Athens is a city that leaves a lasting impression with its legendary landmarks, vibrant streets, and unforgettable flavours. But for UK visitors with extra time to spare, the adventure doesn’t have to end at the city limits. Just a short drive away, you’ll find ancient temples perched on cliffs, peaceful coastal towns, and mountain landscapes that reveal a completely different side of Greece. With a rental car and a flexible schedule, it's easy to discover places that many tourists overlook while enjoying the journey at your own pace. Here are some of the top day trip ideas to help you see more of what Greece has to offer beyond Athens.
Athens can be busy, especially in the summer. A day trip gives you the chance to escape the crowds, enjoy the fresh air, and see more of Greece’s beautiful countryside. Many top sites are only one to two hours away by car For UK tourists, driving in Greece is simple. Roads are well-marked, and with car rental in Greece, you can go where buses and tours won’t take you.
Cape Sounion is around 70 kilometres southeast of Athens, and the drive usually takes about an hour and a half, depending on traffic. It’s one of the most scenic spots near the capital, best known for the Temple of Poseidon, which stands proudly on a cliff overlooking the sea. The views, especially at sunset, are truly breathtaking and make the drive worthwhile.
On your way, you can stop for a swim at one of the nearby beaches, like Legrena or Sounio Beach, both of which offer a peaceful break from the city. Arriving a little before sunset is a great idea, as you’ll enjoy the best light for photos and avoid the larger crowds. While public transport options are limited, driving gives you the freedom to explore the coastal route at your own pace and visit more hidden beaches along the way.
Delphi is about 180 kilometres from Athens, and the drive takes roughly two and a half hours. In ancient Greek times, Delphi was considered the centre of the world. Today, it remains one of the country’s most important archaeological sites, home to the famous Oracle of Delphi, the Temple of Apollo, and a museum filled with fascinating artefacts. The ruins are set on a mountainside, offering breathtaking views of olive groves and sweeping valleys below.
The journey from Athens to Delphi is both easy and scenic, with the road passing through charming towns and quiet stretches of countryside. It’s an excellent destination for history lovers and anyone interested in Greek mythology. Travelling by car allows you to set your own pace and even stop in charming villages like Arachova along the way for a relaxing lunch or a cup of coffee. For a deeper look at the myths and magic of this ancient site, explore our post on Journey Through the Gods’ Playground in Ancient Greece.
Nafplio is about 140 kilometres from Athens, and the drive takes around two hours. It is often considered one of the most beautiful towns in Greece, with colourful neoclassical houses, a lively port, and a hilltop castle that gives the town a fairytale feel. Visitors can stroll through the charming old town, climb the steps to Palamidi Fortress for sweeping views, or unwind by the sea at Arvanitia Beach.
Nafplio is also close to important archaeological sites such as Epidaurus and Mycenae, which makes it perfect for a full day of sightseeing. It’s an excellent choice for couples, families, or anyone who enjoys exploring charming towns that offer a blend of history, culture, and seaside views. Travelling by car offers the freedom to explore more than just the town itself. You can create a scenic route through nearby ruins, stop at local wineries, or take a swim along the way. With its blend of history, charm, and seaside relaxation, Nafplio is a rewarding and memorable day trip from Athens.
Corinth is about 85 kilometres from Athens, and the drive takes roughly one hour, making it one of the easiest day trips from the capital. The town is famous for the Corinth Canal, a striking narrow waterway carved between two cliffs. It’s a popular photo stop and even more impressive when seen in person. In addition to the canal, you can explore Ancient Corinth, which features the Temple of Apollo and a small but interesting museum.
For those looking to add a bit more to their visit, consider driving up to the Acrocorinth, a hilltop fortress that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Travelling by car gives you the flexibility to create your route, with the option to stop at beachside towns or local tavernas along the way. To dive deeper into this historic region, check our guide to the Peloponnese Peninsula in Greece.
Lake Vouliagmeni is just 25 kilometres from Athens and can be reached by car in around 45 minutes, making it an easy and convenient getaway from the city. If you need a break from exploring ancient ruins, this peaceful lake offers a perfect place to unwind. The water remains warm year-round and is naturally rich in minerals that are said to help soothe and benefit the skin. The lake area is well-equipped with sunbeds, a café, and even small fish that gently nibble at your feet for a natural exfoliating experience. It’s a fun and relaxing stop, especially for families or travellers simply looking to slow down and recharge.
Marathon is located about 45 kilometres from Athens, and the drive takes around one hour. This historic town is where the famous long-distance race gets its name and was the site of the legendary Battle of Marathon, where the Greeks triumphed over the Persians. While visiting, you can explore the Marathon Tomb and the Marathon Museum, or unwind with some time by the sea at nearby Schinias Beach. The area is mostly flat and peaceful, making it ideal for a quiet escape from the city. Travelling by car allows you to take your time and enjoy the scenic countryside along the way.
Mount Parnitha is just 30 kilometres from Athens and can be reached in about an hour by car. This natural retreat is part of a protected national park and offers forests, caves, and hiking trails to explore. Depending on the season, you might spot deer, birds, or blooming wildflowers. The area also features mountain lodges, perfect for a coffee break or casual lunch with a view. Mount Parnitha is a fantastic choice for nature lovers, walkers, and families. Since public transport options are limited, driving is the easiest way to access the trails and picnic areas.
Chalkida, also spelled Halkida, lies about 80 kilometres from Athens, with a drive time of roughly one and a half hours. As the capital of the island of Evia, it is connected to the mainland by a bridge and is well known for its fresh seafood, sea views, and the unique tidal phenomenon where the current changes direction every six hours. You can take a stroll by the harbour, enjoy a seafood lunch at a seaside taverna, and visit local landmarks like the Red House and Karababa Castle. Having a car gives you the flexibility to explore nearby beaches or venture further into the island’s interior.
Public transport in Greece generally serves only the main cities and tourist hubs, which means many of the country’s most charming villages, quiet beaches, and lesser-known historical sites can be difficult or even impossible to access without your own vehicle. Renting a car opens up the full beauty of the landscape and allows you to truly experience Greece beyond the typical tourist routes.
At Final Rentals, we offer brand-new cars, fair pricing, and helpful local support. Whether you want a compact car for city driving or something bigger for a family trip, we’ve got you covered. Rent a Car in Greece and start your journey your way.
Driving in Greece is a great way to explore the country at your own pace, especially when venturing beyond Athens. For UK travellers, it’s important to be aware of a few key differences and local rules to ensure a safe and stress-free journey. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind before you hit the road:
Want more advice? Check out Local Driving Laws You Need to Know for Driving in Greece.
Athens has plenty to offer, but some of Greece’s most memorable experiences lie just outside the city. From ancient ruins to quiet beaches and scenic mountain landscapes, day trips give you a chance to explore a different side of the country. If you're visiting from the UK, a rental car gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and reach places that organised tours often miss. It’s a great way to make the most of your time and discover more than just the usual sights. Ready to go beyond Athens? Rent a Car in Greece with Finalrentals and start exploring today.
