Why visit Athens for adventure?
Athens’ location lends itself to the adventurous. On one side, you then have the Aegean Sea and the beautiful Greek islands begging to be explored. And on the other, you have scenic mountains and hillsides, which are perfect for people who want to hike, mountain bike, and take in some of the countrysides.
Best Outdoor Activities in Athens
Corinth Canal
This world-renowned canal is a stunning sight in itself. Imagine standing on the edge of the platform, looking down the right before diving yourself head-first into the middle of the canal. Taking on the challenge of bungee jumping into Corinth Canal is an adventure you will never forget.
Getting to the Corinth Canal
Hop on the train from Athens to Corinth. The ride takes between 60 – and 70 minutes.
Additional information
The Bungee jump is only available from April to September and costs 60 Euros.
Mt Parnitha
Towering over Athens at 1,400 m, Mt. Parnitha is one of Greece’s most beautiful and scenic mountains.
Not only does Mt. Parnitha have the ancient fortress of Frourio Fills and Spileo Panos, the cave to the Greek god Pan to explore, but it also has numerous hiking and mountain biking trails that allow you to take you across the stunning Greek countryside, making it perfect for sightseers and adventurers of all skill levels.
Getting to Mt Parnitha
Located just 25k outside of Athens, the easiest way to reach Mt Parnitha is by public bus or car.
Explore a Greek Island
Athens is the doorway to the Greek islands, and a few of them are close enough to enjoy as day trips. Aegina and Hydra Island are the most popular, but if you have to choose only one, then I would recommend Hydra.
This island offers a good mix of sights and plenty of things to do. You can wander the streets of the beautiful port town and get some great photos of the tall marble bell tower of the Church of Assumption. There are areas to enjoy cliff jumping for those seeking more adventurous activities.
Cost of Exploring a Greek Island
How much you will spend will vary on what island and adventure travel activities you choose. However, it’s safe to say that most of the cost will be getting there. Boat fares change all the time, but a reasonable estimate is about 50 euros round trip.
Best time of the year to visit Athens for adventure?
Many people are worried about visiting Athens since the European debt crisis, but honestly, this is the perfect time to visit. You will have to deal with smaller lines, but you will also find lower prices. Athens’ weather is gorgeous in the summer, making it the perfect time to visit, especially for Island hopping. Mt Parnitha is beautiful in any season, and the view you can get from hiking in the winter might even be more beautiful than in the summer.
Where to stay in Athens?
If you’re a budget traveler, you will want to check out the hostel, City Circus.
It has a great location in the middle of the city, as well as a fantastic atmosphere and a great bar at a budget price. The hostel staff is also accommodating.
Finally, the reason I love Athens for adventure is that…
Athens has a little to offer everyone with beaches, mountains, and extreme sports, like bungee jumping, all right near the city. This makes Athens the perfect home base for your next travel adventure.