Short trips from Athens by car: 30 ideas with distances, times, and accommodation

Athens boasts a rare advantage: within a three-hour drive, you can reach a snowy mountain, a Venetian harbour, a world-class archaeological site, or one of the Saronic Islands. This guide brings together the most noteworthy short trips by car, complete with actual distances, times, tolls, and accommodation suggestions.

We use it as a starting point: first, a summary table to see what fits into your schedule, then each destination in detail, including what to see, where to eat, and where to stay.

Summary table: distances, times, and costs

Before we delve into the details, see a summary of what each destination means in terms of kilometres, hours, and euros. The table helps you quickly choose based on your time and budget.

Destination	Distance	Driving time	Tolls (one-way)	Return cost*
Loutraki	84 km	1 hr	2.80 €	29 €
Chalkida	80 km	1 hr 5 min	1.90 €	26 €
Xylokastro	120 km	1 hr 25 min	4.20 €	40 €
Lake Doxa	160 km	2 hr 5 min	4.20 €	51 €
Arachova	160 km	2 hr	5.40 €	54 €
Delphi	180 km	2 hr 15 min	5.40 €	59 €
Galaxidi	215 km	2 hr 35 min	6.80 €	72 €
Kalavryta	195 km	2 hr 35 min	8.20 €	68 €
Ermioni	180 km	2 hr 20 min	6.40 €	61 €
Evia	165 km	2 hr 25 min	1.90 €	48 €
Nafpaktos	250 km	2 hr 50 min	9.90 €	87 €
Karpenisi	300 km	3 hr 35 min	9.60 €	100 €

*Estimate based on petrol at 1.92 €/litre, consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, and return tolls. Toll and fuel prices change — use these figures as a guide.

The destinations one by one

1. Loutraki — 84 km, 1 hr

The first destination we recommend is Loutraki. The distance from Athens is 84 km and the driving time is approximately 1 hr, with 2.80 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total return cost (petrol and tolls) is around 29 € — an amount easily shared among four people.

• Thermal baths and a spa centre within the town
• Long beachfront with cafés and tavernas
• The casino and Lake Vouliagmeni 20 minutes further on

When it comes to food, the local 'rule' is simple: fresh fish at the beachfront fish tavernas. Ideal for a relaxing day trip with swimming and spa. Tip: Loutraki gorge and the Temple of Hera in Perachora are worth an afternoon visit.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are Grand Olympic Hotel Loutraki, Hotel Excelsior, Dave by the Beach Loutraki. All areas are detailed in our guide where to stay in Loutraki.

2. Chalkida — 80 km, 1 hr 5 min

If you're looking for something that works all year round, put Chalkida on your list. The distance from Athens is 80 km and the driving time is approximately 1 hr 5 min, with 1.90 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total return cost (petrol and tolls) is around 26 € — an amount easily shared among four people.

• The phenomenon of the 'mad waters' in Evripos
• Coastal promenade with a row of meze tavernas
• Karababa Castle with views over the entire strait

When it comes to food, the local 'rule' is simple: meze tavernas with fresh fish and ouzo on the beachfront. Ideal for a Sunday stroll without many kilometres. Tip: check the times for the current reversal in Evripos to catch the phenomenon.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are Hara Hotel, John's Hotel, OpenSea. All areas are detailed in our guide where to stay in Chalkida.

3. Xylokastro — 120 km, 1 hr 25 min

One of the most reliable choices is Xylokastro. The distance from Athens is 120 km and the driving time is approximately 1 hr 25 min, with 4.20 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total return cost (petrol and tolls) is around 40 € — an amount easily shared among four people.

• The Pefkias forest reaching down to the sea
• Coastal pedestrian walkway with views of Parnassus
• Starting point for Trikala Korinthias and Ziria

When it comes to food, the local 'rule' is simple: souvlaki and fish tavernas on the beachfront. Ideal for a quick getaway combining swimming and mountains. Tip: half an hour further up is Lake Doxa, perfect for photos.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are Riviera Hotel, Daphne's Club Hotel Apartments, Xylokastro Antique. All areas are detailed in our guide where to stay in Xylokastro.

4. Lake Doxa — 160 km, 2 hr 5 min

A little further afield, but perfectly feasible, is Lake Doxa. The distance from Athens is 160 km and the driving time is approximately 2 hr 5 min, with 4.20 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total return cost (petrol and tolls) is around 51 € — an amount easily shared among four people.

• The lake with the chapel of Agios Fanourios
• Fir trees and walking trails around the lake
• Close to Ancient Feneos and Ziria

When it comes to food, the local 'rule' is simple: traditional cooked dishes and meat in the villages of Feneos. Ideal for an autumn day trip with photography. Tip: go in autumn or spring when the water level is high and the lake is full.

5. Arachova — 160 km, 2 hr

For something different, try Arachova. The distance from Athens is 160 km and the driving time is approximately 2 hr, with 5.40 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total return cost (petrol and tolls) is around 54 € — an amount easily shared among four people.

• Stone alleyways and vibrant nightlife in winter
• Parnassus Ski Centre 25 minutes further up
• View of the Amfissa olive grove from Koraki

When it comes to food, the local 'rule' is simple: grilled formaela cheese, handmade pasta (hilopites), and Parnassus wine. Ideal for a winter weekend by the fireplace. Tip: for January weekends, book accommodation at least a month in advance.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are Mons Boutique Hotel, Hotel Parnassos, Lykoria Hotel. All areas are detailed in our guide where to stay in Arachova.

6. Delphi — 180 km, 2 hr 15 min

Among our favourite destinations is also Delphi. The distance from Athens is 180 km and the driving time is approximately 2 hr 15 min, with 5.40 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total return cost (petrol and tolls) is around 59 € — an amount easily shared among four people.

• The archaeological site and museum of Delphi
• View of the 'river' of olive groves leading to the Corinthian Gulf
• Starting point for Parnassus and Galaxidi

When it comes to food, the local 'rule' is simple: local cheeses, ladotyri cheese, and traditional cooked dishes in the square. Ideal for combining history and mountains in one day. Tip: arrive at the archaeological site before 10 a.m. to enjoy it without the crowds.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are Amalia Hotel Delphi, Hermes Delphi Hotel, Nidimos Hotel. All areas are detailed in our guide where to stay in Delphi.

7. Galaxidi — 215 km, 2 hr 35 min

It's also worth considering Galaxidi. The distance from Athens is 215 km and the driving time is approximately 2 hr 35 min, with 6.80 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total return cost (petrol and tolls) is around 72 € — an amount easily shared among four people.

• Nautical mansion town harbour with stone captain's houses
• Peaceful walk around the two small harbours
• The nautical museum with 200 years of history

When it comes to food, the local 'rule' is simple: fresh fish and seafood by the water. Ideal for a romantic weekend away from the crowds. Tip: combine it with the pine forests of Agia Efthymia and the Rio-Antirrio bridge.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are Hotel Galaxidi, Porto Lourba, KRISSAIA Seaside Suites. All areas are detailed in our guide where to stay in Galaxidi.

8. Kalavryta — 195 km, 2 hr 35 min

We conclude our suggestions with Kalavryta. The distance from Athens is 195 km and the driving time is approximately 2 hr 35 min, with 8.20 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total return cost (petrol and tolls) is around 68 € — an amount easily shared among four people.

• The Odontotos rack railway through the Vouraikos Gorge
• The Cave of the Lakes in Kastria
• Ski centre on Helmos mountain

When it comes to food, the local 'rule' is simple: grilled meats, trahana soup, and local tsipouro. Ideal for a family weekend with a train ride and snow. Tip: book Odontotos tickets online, as morning services fill up first.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are Anesis Hotel, Kynaitha Hotel, Aphrodite's Inn Kalavryta. All areas are detailed in our guide where to stay in Kalavryta.

9. Ermioni — 180 km, 2 hr 20 min

The first destination we recommend is Ermioni. The distance from Athens is 180 km and the driving time is approximately 2 hr 20 min, with 6.40 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total return cost (petrol and tolls) is around 61 € — an amount easily shared among four people.

• The pine-covered Bisti peninsula with its crystal-clear waters
• Two harbours, one for fishing boats and one for yachts
• Starting point for Hydra and Spetses with a 20-minute ferry

When it comes to food, the local 'rule' is simple: seafood and grilled octopus in Mandraki. Ideal for a quiet weekend by the sea. Tip: leave your car in Ermioni and cross to the islands without ferry costs.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are Ermioni Villas, Ouranos Cosy Home, Hermione Port Luxury Residence. All areas are detailed in our guide where to stay in Ermioni.

10. Evia — 165 km, 2 hr 25 min

If you're looking for something that works all year round, put Evia on your list. The distance from Athens is 165 km and the driving time is approximately 2 hr 25 min, with 1.90 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total return cost (petrol and tolls) is around 48 € — an amount easily shared among four people.

• The thermal baths of Edipsos
• The Drimona waterfalls and the forests of northern Evia
• Endless beaches like Chiliadou and Agios Dimitrios

When it comes to food, the local 'rule' is simple: fresh seafood and local fir honey. Ideal for a two-day trip combining swimming, mountains, and thermal baths. Tip: Northern Evia requires at least two days, as distances within the island are significant.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are Elaia Apartments, Lou Apartments & Hostel, Ritsoni Studios. All areas are detailed in our guide where to stay in Evia.

11. Nafpaktos — 250 km, 2 hr 50 min

One of the most reliable choices is Nafpaktos. The distance from Athens is 250 km and the driving time is approximately 2 hr 50 min, with 9.90 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total return cost (petrol and tolls) is around 87 € — an amount easily shared among four people.

• The Venetian harbour with the castle above
• Psani and Gribovo beaches within the town
• View of the Rio-Antirrio bridge

When it comes to food, the local 'rule' is simple: mezedes and tsipouro in the Venetian harbour. Ideal for a romantic getaway with historical character. Tip: drive up to the castle for a sunset view over the Corinthian Gulf.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are Porto Enetiko, Ilion Hotel, Hotel Nafpaktos. All areas are detailed in our guide where to stay in Nafpaktos.

12. Karpenisi — 300 km, 3 hr 35 min

A little further afield, but perfectly feasible, is Karpenisi. The distance from Athens is 300 km and the driving time is approximately 3 hr 35 min, with 9.60 € in tolls each way. With an average consumption of 7 litres per 100 km, the total return cost (petrol and tolls) is around 100 € — an amount easily shared among four people.

• Megalo Chorio and Mikro Chorio with their stone houses
• Rafting on the Karpenisiotis River and zip-lining
• Velouchi Ski Centre

When it comes to food, the local 'rule' is simple: rooster with handmade pasta (hilopites), trahana soup, and local formaela cheese. Ideal for a winter long weekend with activities. Tip: in mountainous villages, roads may require snow chains from December to March.

Where to stay: good options we've checked are City Apollonion, Melegos Hotel, Lecadin Hotel. All areas are detailed in our guide where to stay in Karpenisi.

Practicalities for your car trip

Travelling by car from Athens has a major advantage: freedom. You're not dependent on schedules, you can stop wherever you want, and the cost is shared. However, there are some points worth considering beforehand.

• Tolls: on Greek motorways, you pay per station. For long journeys, this means 10-22 € each way, so double that for a return trip.
• Fuel: with petrol around 1.92 € per litre, a medium-sized car spends approximately 13-14 € every 100 km.
• Times: the times we provide are without stops. Add 20-30 minutes for coffee and petrol, and more on holiday weekends.
• Winter: for mountainous destinations, keep snow chains in the boot and check road conditions before you set off.
• Accommodation: for weekends and long weekends, book your room at least 3-4 weeks in advance — for popular destinations, the best options go first.

Which season suits each destination

The same destination changes character completely depending on the month. Coastal options are at their best from mid-June to mid-September, when the sea is warm and beach bars are open. In spring, these same areas are quieter and much cheaper, ideal for walking and dining without waiting.

Mountain villages work in reverse: from November to March, they offer fireplaces, snow, and the highest demand, while in summer they provide coolness, hiking, and significantly lower prices. Autumn is the most underrated season for day trips: the colours in the forests, the high water levels in lakes, and empty roads make every journey more pleasant.

If you have children, prefer a morning departure to avoid traffic and choose destinations within two hours: time in the car is the first thing that tires them out. For couples, mountain weekends outside of holidays offer both better prices and a much calmer atmosphere.

How to organise your excursion

Start backwards: first, decide how many hours you can tolerate in the car, then choose a destination from the table. This is the surest way to avoid regretting it halfway through the journey. Second, book accommodation before food and activities: in popular destinations, good lodgings sell out first, and prices rise as the date approaches.

Third, create a relaxed schedule with two fixed points per day — one sight and one meal — and leave the rest open. The best moments on these kinds of getaways often come from spontaneous stops in villages and views you hadn't planned for. Finally, always check your tyres, oil, and pressure before journeys exceeding 200 kilometres.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the closest destination from Athens on this list?

It's Loutraki, at 84 km and approximately 1 hr journey.

How much does the cheapest route cost?

The cheapest option is Chalkida: approximately 26 € for a return trip in petrol and tolls, an amount that can be shared among the car's occupants.

Which destination requires the longest journey?

The furthest is Karpenisi, with approximately 3 hr 35 min driving. For this, we recommend at least an overnight stay.

How much will I pay in tolls in total?

It depends on the destination: in our list, tolls range from zero to 9.90 € per direction. Always calculate double for the return journey.

What is the best short trip from Athens for a first-timer?

If you're going for the first time, Arachova with Delphi in winter and Galaxidi with Loutraki in summer cover the best of Central Greece within a two-hour drive.

Do I need a car for all these destinations?

Not for all of them. The Saronic Islands and Hydra are easily reached by ferry from Piraeus, while Chalkida, Loutraki, and Nafpaktos have frequent KTEL bus services.

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