5+1 destinations ideal for one or two day trips from Athens In Spring and Summer!
Hydra Island
It’s just magnificent! I love the fact that there are no cars. Its beautiful, traditional architecture, resembling more that of continental Greece than the islands, its crystal clear waters, the serenity… And the amazing seafood at the port, nonetheless…
Where to stay: Orloff Hotel Hydra or Hydrea hotel
Andros Island
I loved it! Its Chora (main town) is dreamy, taking me back to another era, a more sophisticated time. Its architecture can only be matched to its lovely sandy beaches and its green spaces (the only island in Cyclades with some). I also craved the food there: meat in Chora, seafood by the sea. What else?
Where to stay: Archontiko Eleni Hotel or Neoclassical Mansion in Andros Town
Kea Island
Kea was built pretty recenlty (well, apart from the villages and Chora), and luckily the new villas and rooms are all in perfect alignment with the surrounding brown nature. There are also several cool beaches, but beware of the wind. Ioulida is the name of the Chora and it’s a beauty. For food, I so recommend Ti Strofi tou Mimi. Seafood on the beach!
Where to stay: Eleon apartments or Breathtaking View Villa
Nafplio
Just a couple of hours drive from Athens, Nafplio is an old time favorite destination. Once the country’s capital, it has preserved all of its old time charm. From the flower covered alleys, to the cozy taverns and the majestic gelatarias and the cute bars, to the beach front, the sea walk, the cliff hanging castle and the historical island, Nafplio is an experience on its own, not to be missed!
Where to stay: Hotel Perivoli or Origami Boutique Residences
Galaxidi
Galaxidi is a short drive from Athens, just a breath away from Parnassos, Arachova and Livadia, which are flocked with ski tourists and foodies all winter long. Galaxidi is a tiny port town, which features some great traditional architecture and a lot of green areas, making it completely picturesque. Cute souvenir shops, scenic seafood taverns on the waterfront and its very friendly people will make your experience there a really memorable one!
+1 Agkistri Island
Just a 2 hours boat trip from Peireaus, Agkistri is easy to get to and explore by bicycle. It features 1-2 amazing beaches overlooking Peireaus from afar, as well as some amazing snorkeling on the other side, overlooking the island of Methana. Of course, the seafood is fresh and the taverns lovely, but there’s this one bistrot near the port with some Greek gourmet dishes and laid back youngsters that will make you really want to come back again and again…
Where to stay: Artists’ Residence or Koukounari Apartments
