The historical region of Greece where the capital is located is called Attica. She played an important role in the cultural and political life of Ancient Greece and is of exceptional interest to tourists today. As you choose where to go from Athens for a day, take a look at the different areas of Attica, each with exciting excursions and historic landmarks.
To the national park
The highest mountain of Attica, Karabola, is located in the Parnitha National Park of Greece. Its height is more than 1400 meters, and the area around is extremely picturesque. Pine forests adjoin here with small caves in the rocks, and on the mountain paths travelers can meet deer and squirrels.
You can get to Parnita by a rented car or public transport:
- By car, take the national highway to Lamia, north of Athens. There is a pointer at the turn to Parnitou.
- By bus route N714 from Vati Square in the Greek capital. The journey will take about two hours.
In the port restaurant
It is best to taste authentic Greek cuisine in the provincial seaside restaurant, which the town of Piraeus is rich in. When deciding where to go from Athens for one day, pay attention to this port, known in the old days as Porto Leone. It was nicknamed the Lion's Gate because of the huge statue that adorned the entrance to the port.
It is easy to get to Piraeus by electric trains, which regularly leave from the railway station. The second way is by bus route N040, the final stop of which in Athens is located at Syntagma Square.
Local attractions include the Castella area on a hill with narrow old streets, cozy coffee shops and stunning views from the top. An interesting performance can be seen in the open-air Veakio theater here.
As for fish restaurants, you should look for them on the Mikrolimano pier. It is the port taverns that are famous for their fresh seafood and excellent cooking methods.
To the ancient gods
A trip to Cape Sounion is remembered not only for the fantastic views flashing outside the windows of the bus or car, but also for the ancient temples that have been preserved in this region of Attica from time immemorial.
The easiest way to get here on your own is by one of the buses starting from the stop on Mavromateon Street near the Champ de Mars.
The main object of the excursion is the Temple of Poseidon on the edge of a 60-meter cliff above the sea. Once there was a sanctuary in honor of the god of the depths of the 34 columns of which less than half have survived today.
The temple of Athena once looked no less majestic, only the foundation of which has survived today, half a kilometer from the sanctuary of Poseidon.
The return trip to Athens can be devoted to photographing the surroundings and lunch in the picturesque town of Lavrio, a few kilometers from Cape Sounion. The menu of the local taverns includes the best dishes of Greek cuisine.
