Looking for a quick getaway near the capital? Athens offers many options for short, winter trips, perfect for a weekend away. Snow-capped mountains, traditional villages, lakes, forests, are just waiting for you to discover them.
Winter destinations near Athens always keep surprises for explorers who want to escape from everyday life and worries. One of them may be related to the condition of your vehicle. Let's Drive can solve this problem by offering affordable car rentals from Athens, so you can enjoy your trip in comfort and confidence.
One of the most popular mountain getaways near Athens is Trikala, in the prefecture of Korinthos. The village consists of Kato, Middle and Ano (Upper) Trikala.
One of the most famous sights is located on Mount Ziria and it is the Virgin Mary of the Rock. The church is nestled inside one of the high cliffs, resembling Meteora's scenery. The area is ideal for hiking, while on the same path you will meet the Church of the Holy Trinity and the small church of Taxiarches. Descending towards Ano Trikala, at an altitude of 1600 meters, you will find Lake Dassi, which is part of the Natura 2000 protection network. Next to the Hermes Cave with its colorful stalactites, you will find the Ziria Ski Center, one of the most famous in the Peloponnese. There is also a beginner's track, an equipment rental shop, and parking space for 200 cars.
If you prefer horse riding and archery, visit Rethi, one of the neighboring villages, to enjoy these activities in nature.
In Trikala, the food in traditional taverns is amazing, with fresh meat and local wine. There are many accommodation options such as rooms, guesthouses and villas for couples, families or large groups, and services according to your needs.
Info: Trikala is a 145-kilometer drive from Athens.
In this Arcadian village, you will discover the harmonious coexistence of past and present. The entire settlement is stone-built and has been declared a preserved monument. The traditional guest houses warm you up for an unforgettable stay with an authentic, local flavor. Dimitsana is really beautiful in winter as well, however it is among the top fall getaways in Greece.
Dimitsana is amphitheatrically built and in its picturesque alleys, you will come across important attractions such as the Library, the Outdoor Museum of Hydrokinesis and the Mikis Theodorakis Museum. Built in the gorge of the Lousios river and resting opposite each other are the monasteries of Panagia Filosofos and Trasfiguration of the Saviour.
The preserved settlement of Dimitsana attracts also tourists from abroad, who choose to rent a car from Athens airport.
Info: Dimitsana is 200 km away from Athens.
It is secular, noisy, amphitheatrically built and the most popular spot in Parnassos. Arachova becomes a meeting point every winter for those who love skiing, fun and delicious food. Both the slopes and the chalet of the ski center in Parnassos are bustling with crowds. For those who are not interested in this activity, you can take a walk in the village of Arachova to see the large historical clock in the area, the Folklore Museum, and Baroutospilia. Just 10 kilometers away, you can find the town of Delphi, with the historic Oracle and the Temple of Apollo.
If you are a morning person, climb the highest peak of Parnassos, Liakoura, at an altitude of 2,457 meters. Depending on the weather, you'll see a spectacular sunrise framed by Olympus' mountain ranges.
Winter is the time when the islands are least crowded, so many residents choose to rent a car at Piraeus, the most convenient pick-up spot.
Info: Arachova is 170 km from Athens.
The mountain of Achaia and the town of the same name is an all-time classic winter destination since skiing and snow are intertwined with Kalavryta. History is engraved in every corner and the appropriate places to learn about the past of the area are the Municipal Museum of the Kalavrytine Holocaust and the Panhellenic Monument of the National Renaissance of 1821. The Cave of the Lakes is one of the most famous and wonderful in Greece, while the Monastery of the Great Cave stands out because it is built on rock.
On the slopes of the Ski Center in Kalavryta you will descend Helmos, while at the top of Neraidorachi you will find the largest telescope in the Balkans.
The trip with the legendary Odontotos train is another unforgettable experience in Kalavryta. Get on board to pass through landscapes that look like pages out of a fairy tale. The National Independence Forest of Kalavryta is also located in the area. Visit it for hiking in one of the most important forests in the country.
In Kalavryta, the roads can be challenging, so it is important to drive safely. Don't worry if yours isn't that reliable. You can always choose a car rental from Piraeus and Eleftherios Venizelos airport from Let's Drive.
Info: Kalavryta is 190 km from Athens.
The truth is that this destination always claims a place in our list of favorite excursions near Athens, all year round. Nafplio is romantic, lively and suitable for winter holidays, hosting a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, fast foods, cafes, bars, shopping and souvenir shops. Usually the weather allows for a boat trip to Bourtzi and a climb to Palamidi Fortress, to see if there are really 999 steps to the top, like they say.
The distance is short and you can always rent a car from Athens at affordable prices.
Info: Nafplion is 140 km from Athens.
The nearby destinations from Athens by road are more easily accessible with a new and safe car. Let's Drive has several suggestions that will suit your needs in order to enjoy a tailor-made trip. It is a short distance to Nafplion, and car rental from Athens is very affordable.
