Discover Greece Beyond the Sea — Right from the Airport
When most people think of Athens, they imagine sunshine and the sea. But just 1–2 hours from the airport, you can find a completely different side: lush forests, alpine villages, and cool mountain air—even in the heart of summer.
With a Sync rental car waiting for you at Athens International Airport, you can skip the city and head straight for the hills. No queues, no credit card required, no hidden fees—just freedom, in every sense of the word.
This guide highlights three unforgettable road trips that begin at the airport and end at the summit. Ready to change altitude?
Mount Parnitha: Athens’ Closest Mountain Retreat
If you're short on time but craving a nature escape, Mount Parnitha is your go-to. Just 45 minutes from the airport, this national park feels worlds away from the city—yet it’s right on its doorstep.
What to Do:
- Hike scenic trails (try Flabouri–Bafi–Pan’s Cave loop)
- Stop at Bafi Refuge for coffee or lunch with a view
- Take the cable car up, then continue driving deeper into the forest
Why Go:
- No tolls, quick and easy access
- Fresh air, dense pine forest, and a chance to spot wild deer
- Ideal for a peaceful half-day trip or picnic stop
Drive time: ~45 minutes
Road condition: Mostly paved, winding near the top
Penteli: A Classic Nature Escape Close to the City
Mount Penteli is the most “urban” of Athens’ nearby mountains, offering sweeping views, historic monasteries, and gentle winding roads ideal for a quick nature fix.
What to Do:
- Visit the Penteli Monastery, one of the oldest in the region
- Hike to Davelis Cave for panoramic views and local legends
- Enjoy coffee or lunch at the village square overlooking the city
Drive time: ~35 minutes
Parking: Available near the monastery and central square
Penteli is perfect for a spontaneous escape into nature—without ever leaving the Athens metropolitan area.
Arachova & Delphi: Stone Villages and Ancient Legends
One of the most atmospheric road trips from Athens leads to Arachova and the sacred site of Delphi. In just over 2.5 hours, you’ll trade the tarmac for cobbled alleys, majestic mountain views, and mythological heritage.
What to Do:
- Enjoy coffee with a view in charming Arachova
- Wander through the Delphi Archaeological Site and Museum
- Picnic or hike in the Mount Parnassus foothills
- Taste local products like cheeses, spoon sweets, and tsipouro
Why Go in Summer:
- Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists
- Photogenic landscapes and quiet energy
- A cultural road trip with natural beauty all around
Drive time: ~2.5 hours
Tolls: Yes (via Athens–Lamia National Highway)
Kalavryta: Mountain Tradition & Scenic Train Rides
Want something truly unique? Head southwest to Kalavryta, a historic mountain town nestled in the Peloponnese. It’s a blend of natural beauty, history, and small-town charm—with a twist: one of Greece’s most scenic train rides.
Highlights:
- Ride the Odontotos Rack Railway from Diakopto to Kalavryta
- Visit the Kalavryta Holocaust Museum and Memorial Site
- Eat like a local—try lamb, wild greens, and handmade pasta
- Optional stop at the Cave of the Lakes for a surreal underground experience
When to Go:
- Perfect for a 2-day escape
- Cool air and greenery even in August
- Authentic hospitality and slower pace
Drive time: ~2 hours 20 minutes
Roads: Mostly highway, some rural roads closer to Kalavryta
Parking: Generally easy and free
🧭 Road Trip Tips for the Mountains
- 📱 Download Google Maps offline: Signal can drop in the mountains
- 🧃 Bring snacks and water: Food options may be limited mid-route
- 🎶 Make a playlist: The scenery deserves a soundtrack
- ❄️ Bring a jacket: It gets cooler up high, even in the middle of summer
Nature Is Closer Than You Think
Summer in Greece isn’t just about the beach. There’s a different kind of freedom waiting in the mountains—the scent of pine, the silence of altitude, the thrill of every turn in the road.
With Sync, you can pick up your car directly at Athens International Airport and start your adventure without waiting in line, using a credit card, or dealing with last-minute surprises.
Book now, and discover a greener, quieter side of Greece. From the runway to the ridgeline—it’s your journey to make.
Because freedom isn’t just by the sea. It’s also up in the mountains.
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