Athens, here you come! This city is a thing of beauty, but maybe you like to spread your wings during your holiday and see some thrilling sights too…

In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of day trips you can take from the centre, with travel time and handy instructions included. The only thing left for you to do is decide where’s first! There are oodles of archaeological trips, wildlife hikes and glorious bays to explore. Just be sure to sample different yummy cuisines and fill your camera roll along the way as well...

1. Picturesque Aegina

Only one island-hop away is Aegina. Like the sound of floating greengrocers, ancient temples and quaint courtyards? There’s so much to do here, so it’s well worth spending the day exploring at your own pace. Of course, there are plenty of traditional charming tavernas, but there are also antiques waiting to be found, bags of famous pistachios calling your name and sun-kissed bays for lounging on. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a horse-drawn carriage ride past the chapel of Agios Nikolaos and vibrant fishing caiques. Yay or neigh?

Top tip: Wear comfy shoes for exploring the Temple of Aphaia, which is easily accessible by bus or taxi.

Travel time: 40 minutes / 1 hour 15 minutes

How to get there: The hydrofoil is the quickest option, taking 40 minutes from the harbour of Piraeus. Or you can take the ferry which takes an hour and 15 mins.

2. Corinth is calling

Ancient Corinth is one nearby popular archaeological ground and for good reason. A bundle of olde worlde sites and ruins can be found at the bottom of the towering rock of Acrocorinth. Be sure to take your camera to capture the Temple of Apollo and its original seven columns. Impressive! The museum is also a great shout if you want to continue your Roman findings. Like the area? Why not take a cruise through Corinth Canal? This enchanting waterway willknock your socks off.

Travel time: 1 hour 20 minutes

How to get there: Catch the hourly bus from Athens Kifissos station to Korinthos bus station in Corinth city, which takes about an hour. From here, short 20-minute buses depart to Ancient Corinth.

3. It’s time for Parnitha National Park

Packing your hiking boots? Wise. This protected area watches over fascinating caves, lakes, forests and historical monuments. It’s also home to the red deer, short-toed eagle and Mediterranean mole, so nature enthusiasts, this one’s for you! You’ll discover various fortresses, made to protect Athens from the Boeotians and Spartans during the Peloponnesian War. Follow the signposted and woven hiking paths and take a break at Mpafi (Bafi) or Flampouri (Flambouri). These two hideouts offer cosy dining and stunning views. Cycling is a fab option here too if you have the right a-tyre!

Travel time: 1 hour

How to get there: First, ride the Metro’s Green line north to Nea Ionia.

Then, hop on bus 724 to Thrakomakedónes. If you want to go further and reach the top of the mountain, stay on this bus.

4. Mythical Mycenae

Ancient Mycenae was once the kingdom of the legendary king Agamemnon, ruler of the Greeks during the Trojan War. The remarkable Lion Gate should be first on your list, as it’s the entrance to this fortified palace. Second should be the Tomb of Agamemnon, with its vaulted ceiling and alluring echoes. You can admire over 2,000 exhibits of ceramic vases, jewellery, tools, weapons and paintings in the archaeological museum to finish your trip too. Leave feeling content and full of history!

Travel time: 1 hour 45 minutes

How to get there: Daily buses (KTEL intercity) depart from Athens to Fichti on the Nafplio route. Fichti is the nearest town to Ancient Mycenae.

5. Hello, Chalkida

How about heading to the old bridge of Chalkida to experience the Gulf of Evia? This is a once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon where the tides change direction every six hours. They’re not called the ‘crazy waters’ for nothing! The mouth-watering seafood on offer here also lures in tourists, as well as the Castle of Kanithos. The waterfront is also made for a scenic stroll night or day, and you can even sip a cocktail here, admire the city’s lights or just enjoy some music.

Travel time: 1 hour minutes

How to get there: Chalkida is a one hour drive from Athens on the main motorway to Thessaloniki or by intercity bus from Athens station for 1 hour 20 minutes. You can also take the train.

So, there you have it – our favourite day trips from Athens. Which one's up your street?