Meaning “on high” in Ancient Greek, Meteora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that certainly lives up to its name: Its 24 monasteries (six of which are still functioning) are perched atop massive stone pillars some 1,312 feet (400 meters) above the Peneas Valley. The site’s dramatic rock formations, formed around 60 million years ago, also make it a must-see for history and geology lovers, while the local hiking trails are a draw for nature enthusiasts.

Undoubtedly among the most scenic day trips from Athens, Delphi has long been drawing visitors. Where the ancients sought divine guidance from the Oracle of Delphi, history lovers now flock to explore the well-preserved ruins of the site and the Delphi Archeological Museum. In ancient Greek mythology, Delphi was believed to be the center of the world, and in its dramatic hillside location faced with the Temple of Apollo, it’s easy to understand why this spot was so sacred.

About a 1.5-hour drive along the scenic coastal road from Athens lies Cape Sounion, the southernmost tip of Attica. It’s on this craggy promontory that you’ll find the ruins of the ancient Temple of Poseidon. Once you've gotten your fix of ancient history, it's worth sticking around to see the sunset from this spectacular spot: Many tours to the site are timed to coincide with golden hour and the sunset over the sea, with the temple bathed in soft pink and orange hues.

Thanks to its position less than an hour by car from the city center, Lake Vouliagmeni is one of the most time-efficient short trips from Athens: Within mere minutes you can swap busy Syntagma Square for a peaceful lake escape. The ever-warm mineral-rich waters (famed for their healing properties) are surrounded by dramatic cliffs, making for a stunning swimming location. Here, nature meets spa luxury—beyond a dip in the lake itself, treatments such as massages and facials are also on offer.

Escape to the nearby Saronic Gulf Islands, all just a ferry or speedier hydrofoil ride from the port of Piraeus. Aegina, Poros, and Hydra each have a unique character: Aegina is famed for its pistachio trees and ancient temples; Poros charms with its pine forests and landmark clock tower; and Hydra is beloved for its quaint streets, that are free of cars but filled with the clip-clop of mules. Other options for island day trips include cruises to Agistri and Moni islands.

Mycenae is a shoo-in when it comes to top day trips near Athens for history lovers. Located in the Peloponnese, less than two hours by car from the city, Mycenae’s impressive ruins—amid stunning natural landscapes—offer an experience of antiquity quite different from the urban setting of the Parthenon. Founded between 1350–1200 BC, Mycenae was once the home of the legendary King Agamemnon and played a significant role in Greek mythology, even being immortalized in Homer’s Iliad.

Day trips from Athens don’t get any more delicious than a visit to Nemea, a town famous for its rich wine heritage. It’s particularly well known for the red agiorgitiko grape variety, which has been cultivated in the region for thousands of years and was named after St. George. Each of the town’s more than 40 wineries offer their own unique take on agiorgitiko. Pop into a few wineries to stroll among the vines, sample some award-winning wines, and maybe even take a bottle (or three) home.

You might spend much of your Athens getaway hearing about the exploits of Zeus, Poseidon, and other figures from ancient Greek mythology, but Athens and the surrounding area also played a crucial role in Christian history. Be transported back on a Biblical tour as you learn about St. Paul the Apostle, who famously wrote a letter to the church in nearby Corinth, which has become a popular destination. Don't miss spots include the Corinth Canal and the archaeological sites of Corinth and Isthmia.

For nature lovers, nearby destinations for day trips from Athens are plentiful. None, however, top Mt. Parnitha National Park, just 45 minutes from central Athens. This refreshing escape into the wilderness is packed with scenic hiking trails that wind through dense (and aromatic) pine forests, while thrill seekers might opt for mountain biking or canyoning. For epic views without the effort, let the cable car take you to the summit.