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Zest In A Tote

For the discerning family traveler, best day trips from athens, greece.

• by Shweta Singhal
• Posted on August 30, 2024 August 31, 2024

Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world and there are wonderful ancient ruins and monuments to see here. We spent 3 days in Athens and had a great time. But the amazing part about Greece is that a few important archeological sites lie beyond the capital city, making them as perfect Athens day trips. Plus, there are charming small towns and villages that can you visit as day trips from Athens. So let’s dive into the best day trips you can take from Athens, Greece.

D isclaimer:  This helpful post contains some Affiliate links. This means that if you click on any of the links in this post (AND make a purchase), I may receive a  small commission  at  absolutely no cost to you . As such I thank you in advance should you decide to click & buy .

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Travel Resources for Greece

Athens day trips.

It is easiest to book day tours on GetYourGuide .

Or Rent a car to drive around in Greece. Get the best car deals on RentalCars and Discover Cars here!

Omio is my favourite platform to book ferry tickets in Greece . You can use this to book ferries to nearby islands like Hydra, Aegina.

Get an eSim for your trip for effortless and cheap data connection from Airalo .

6 Best Day Trips from Athens for history, culture, and quaint islands

Delphi: ancient splendour amidst a stunning setting.

Delphi has to be the most popular Athens day trip. And rightly so! Delphi is one of the most famous historic sites in Greece. The ancient Greeks considered the centre of the world to be in Delphi.

This was an ancient religious sanctuary dedicated to the Greek God Apollo . The sanctuary was home to the Oracle of Delphi and the priestess Pythia, who was famed throughout the ancient world for divining the future. 

Outside of Athens, this was my favourite ancient ruins on the Greece mainland itinerary . There is a museum at a walking distance from the archaeological site. Most of the artefacts discovered at the site are now displayed at the museum. It is easy to cover both the site and the museum in 2 to 3 hours. The town of Delphi has some lovely options for lunch.

How to reach : Discover the wonders of Delphi on a guided tour from Athens where transfer is arranged to and from Athens. Or you can rent a car and drive down to Delphi. Take the National Greek Road, Athens to Lamia. The driving distance is about 180 km. Either buy just the Delphi entry tickets (entry to Museum included) or opt to take a 1.5 hr guided tour .

If you don’t want to drive yourself, you can take a KTEL bus from Liosion Bus Station to reach Delphi. The bus ride from Athens to Delphi takes about 3 hours. Another option is to take the Hellenic train from Athens to Levadia, and then a taxi ride from Levadia to reach Delphi. The train operates 5 times each day and is the fatest way to reach Delphi.

Epidaurus and Mycenae: Historical sites in Peloponnese region

Epidaurus and Mycenae are 2 of the most important ancient ruins in the Peloponnese region of Greece. 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Epidaurus is a popular spot that offers visitors the chance to explore its rich history, architecture, and natural beauty. Epidaurus’ Theatre is the most famous ruin here, this stadium is well preserved. But there is much more to see beyond the famous theatre. The site of Epidaurus is very big, built around the Sanctuary of Medicine God Asklepios .

According to ancient Greek mythology, Epidaurus was the birthplace of Asklepios, the healing god, and son of Apollo. In fact, Epidaurus is home to the most popular healing center of antiquity. It takes about 2 hours to visit the entire site at Epidaurus.

The archaeological site of Mycenae is at a distance of about 46 km from Epidaurus. Much before Ancient Greeks consolidated their power at Athens, the Mycenaeans were a great empire that ruled the region. And between 16 th  and 12 th  century BC, their civilisation spread to all known areas in the Mediterranean region. 

There is a lot to explore at the Mycenae site now, and you can spend an hour here. The Tombs of Agamemnon, Aegisthus and Clytemnestra are popular structures to view here. The Tomb of Agamemnon is the most elaborate and largest tomb constructed since the Bronze Age. 

How to reach : To cover these 2 sites, the easiest is to book a day tour from Athens . There are different combinations of sites at Peloponnese area you can choose from:

Or you can rent a car and drive down the distance of 126 km from Athens to reach Epidaurus. The driving distance further to reach Mycanae site is 43 km from Epidaurus.

You can also take a bus or train to reach Cornith from Athens. It takes about 1 hr to reach Cornith from Athens. From Cornith, you can take a taxi to reach Epidaurus site (distance of about 65 km). The bus journey takes about 3 hours. 

Nafplio: Explore modern Greece’s first capital city

Nafplio is a coastal city located in the Peloponnese in Greece. If you are taking a day trip to the Peloponnese region from Athens, you can make a quick stop at the Cornith Canal before going to Nafplio. This is the narrow canal that isolates the Peloponnese region from mainland Greece.

Impressive castles, museums, historic churches, beautiful neoclassical buildings and paved cobbled paths await you in Nafplio. It was modern Greece’s first capital and is considered one of the most romantic cities in the country.

The medieval old town is very well preserved in this coastal city. You can admire important historic buildings and monuments in the Syntagma Square here. Another famous tourist attraction here is the  Palamidi Castle , which stands 216 m above sea level. But be prepared to climb all the 999 steps to reach here. The view from above here is worth the climb. 

The most photographed spot of Nafplio is Bourtzi castle , the Venetian small fortress standing on a rocky islet. You can stroll around the Arvanitia Promenade , the most popular walk in town. Sipping a drink at any of the cafes is a nice way to view the harbour and the Bourtzi. 

How to reach : You can opt for a Athens day tour that includes Nafplio . Many day tours to Peloponnese region also include a stop at Cornith Canal , you can marvel at the colossal engineering work that went into building the canal.

There are direct buses plying between Athens and Nafplio, this takes about 2 hours 10 minutes. You can rent a car in Athens and reach Nafplio a bit faster, in less than 2 hours. There is no direct train to Nafplio. But you can take the “Proastiakos” train from Athens airport to Corinth and hire a taxi from there to Nafplio.

Temple of Poseidon: Sea, sunset and an enigmatic temple

One of the most popular day tours from Athens is to see the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion . This enigmatic temple has stood watching out over the sea for nearly 2500 years, and was an important sanctuary dedicated to Poseidon in Ancient Greece.   The Temple of Sounion is an ancient Greek temple, dedicated to the God Poseidon. The Greeks considered Poseidon to be the “master of the sea”. This Temple is open daily, all year round except for major public holidays, from 9:30 am until sunset. The last admission is 20 minutes before sunset. En route to this temple, you can make a stop at the ancient  Theatre of Thorikos , the oldest preserved theatre in the world. Admire the surrounding views of the area, including the historic ancient silver mines of the region.   Besides the historic ruins, you also get stellar views of the Aegean Sea from Cape Sounion. You can also swim on a nearby beach during the summer months. It is the perfect spot to enjoy a sunset. The view is great and if you are lucky, you can experience the golden-orange illumination on the temple.

How to reach : Cape Sounion is at a distance of 68 km and is easy to reach from Athens. There are 4 ways to get there: by bus, subway, taxi, or car. You can rent a car in Athens and reach Sounion in an hour. If you don’t want to drive yourself, you can take a KTEL Bus or a subway to Sounion. Or book a day tour from Athens .

Aegina: Island with close proximity to Athens

Aegina is a beautiful, fertile, and verdant island near to Athens. It offers interesting archaeological monuments, such as the beautiful  Temple of Aphaia , built in the 5th century BC. The island is very popular for its museums & other sights. It is known for its nightlife, food, beaches, and shopping. 

You can wander around Aegina Town on your day trip from Athens. There are plenty of museums to delve into the island’s history, or you can relax at one of the multiple cafes in the town. You can also visit the Monastery of Agios Nektarios , this ranks among the largest monasteries in Greece. Just a short distance from the port is the Temple of Apollo , dating from the 6th century BC. One of the main reasons to visit Aegina is its beaches , with their clear azure waters. And do find a taverna by the sea and indulge in fresh seafood.

How to reach : You can get from Athens to Aegina by ferry from the port of Piraeus.  Athens to Aegina ferry duration can range between 40 minutes and 1 hour 10 minutes depending on the operator you are sailing with.

You can also check out different tour options from Athens :

Hydra: Car-free island with a picturesque setting

Hydra has one of the nicest waterfronts in Greece with the village cascading down to the waterfront. This island is famous for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. The island offers both sandy and pebbly beaches , offering a range of cosmopolitan and secluded options that can meet the tastes of all visitors. 

Hydra’s capital town is built amphitheaterically around the port. It is easy to lose yourself in the lovely alleys here. Hydra has a rich historical background, mainly because of its contribution to the Greek War of Independence. Several impressive mansions now function as museums or cultural venues, where you can learn more about the island’s history.

The traditional wonderful architecture, the absence of vehicles, the hospitability of the inhabitants, the lively nightlife, and the cosmopolitan flair contribute to the high popularity and the incredible charm of Hydra.

How to reach : The best way to get to Hydra is by ferry from the port of Piraeus in Athens. There are daily connections all year round that last 2.5 hours on average. Or opt for a day cruise from Athens that includes Hydra .

Bonus Tip: Where not to visit as day trip from Athens

Many tourists book a day tour from Athens to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora , to see some of its stunning monasteries and the fantastic landscape there. Meteora is about a distance of 350 km from Athens, and while this long day tour is doable, I would suggest an overnight trip to truly appreciate the splendour of Meteora. Apart from the monasteries, the sunset and the morning hike was the highlight of visiting Meteora for me.

If you want to visit the famous Cycladic islands of Mykonos and Santorini , make sure it is at least an overnight trip. A day tour to Mykonos or Santorini is too rushed in my opinion.

Planning a trip to Greece? Check out –

Itinerary Suggestions :  Greece in 2 weeks ,  Greece 10-day Itinerary with kids

Greece Cities :  3 days in Athens

More on Greece mainland : The Complete Guide to Visiting Meteora

Greek Islands :  Crete Itinerary ,  Beautiful Greek islands for a family holiday ,  Santorini Itinerary ,  Crete vs Santorini ,  One day in Mykonos ,  Santorini vs Mykonos

And finally, a packing list for Greece

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Author: Shweta Singhal

Hi! I am Shweta, the zest behind this blog . I play several roles – parent to a 6-year old, adventure enthusiast, travel blogger, generally open to trying out new things in life. Besides travel, I love books and theatre and art. I would love to hear from you; do drop a comment. Join me on Instagram / Twitter @zestinatote. View all posts by Shweta Singhal

This is such an incredible area! I visited many years ago, but your post makes me feel like I need to go back!!

Yeah, loads to explore outside Athens.

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Albom Adventures

Capturing the essence of travel through photography

Inspiring travel through photography

8 Epic Seattle Day Trips: Growing the Bucket List

No question about it, I love Seattle and all of the Pacific Northwest. We tend to base ourselves in the city, and head out on Seattle day trips to explore the region.

Whether we’re looking for outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, there are plenty of destinations within a few hours’ drive of Seattle that are perfect for a day trip (or a Seattle weekend getaway).

From the stunning mountain views of Mount Rainier National Park to the charming San Juan Islands, we often feel spoilt for choice.

By intermixing our day trips from Seattle with time exploring the city, we get the comfort of old favorites with the thrill of exploring somewhere new.

If you are heading to Seattle and, like us, would rather do a bit of return driving than change accommodations every night, we have a bucket full of Seattle day trip ideas below.

Map of Seattle day trips

All of the day trips from Seattle featured below are on the map, although drive times are written with each section below.

Quick trips include Snoqualmie Falls, Bainbridge, or Tacoma. In contrast, we think of Olympic National Park, San Juan Islands, and Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument as more of Seattle weekend getaways, although with limited time, they can be done in a day.

Quick trips from Seattle

Why leave one large city for another, especially when they are both on Puget Sound? They are actually quite different, each with its own unique vibe. Seattle is faster-paced and more tech-driven, while Tacoma has a more relaxed, artsy vibe that I love.

Some of the must-sees in Tacoma include the Museum of Glass, the Washington State History Museum, and the LeMay-America’s Car Museum.

One of our favorites, especially when our kids were younger, is the 760-acre Point Defiance Park , which is one of the largest urban parks in the country. It features scenic trails, a rose garden, a zoo, and an aquarium.

2. Snoqualmie Falls

Located just a 30-minute drive from the city, Snoqualmie Falls is more than just one of the quick trips from Seattle, it’s an outdoor paradise. Here you will find a majestic waterfall that drops 268 feet into the Snoqualmie River.

The short hike to the observation deck to view the falls is just one of many walks in the Snoqualmie Valley. If you don’t want to drive, check out this highly-rated guided tour, complete with entertaining commentary. Reserve your Snoqualmie Falls and Twin Falls guided tour here.

For many, one of the big thrills is the nearby Salish Lodge, which overlooks the falls (seen in the photo).

If it looks familiar but not the name, perhaps you know it as The Great Northern Hotel from Twin Peaks. Even better than seeing, you can enjoy an upscale dining option or change your plan from one of the fun day trips from Seattle to an overnight stay. Book your room overlooking the Snoqualmie Falls at Salish Lodge & Spa here.

3. Bainbridge Island

35 minute ferry ride

Bainbridge Island is a relaxing, picturesque escape. It offers a scenic day trip from Seattle. As the ferry sails into the harbor, one can sense the charming small-town atmosphere and lush natural beauty.

It has it all in a condensed form, starting with spectacular views of Seattle and Mt Rainer right from the ferry. Once on the island, there are parks and gardens to explore, museums to discover, boutique shops, art galleries, and delightful eateries. Plus, there are kayaking, hiking, and biking trails that showcase the island’s picturesque landscapes.

More day trips from Seattle

This section includes Seattle day trip ideas within two hours from the city by car.

4. Mount Rainier National Park

1 hour and 45 minutes

Mount Rainier holds many claims to fame. It’s the tallest volcanic peak (14,411-foot) in the contiguous United States, one of the largest alpine glacial systems (larger ones are only found in Alaska), and home to the world’s largest volcanic glacial cave system.

For many nature lovers, Mount Rainier is a must-visit destination, but for us, we were happy just to view her from the top of the Seattle Space Needle .

In the winter, skiers and snowboarders head to Paradise, Washington’s largest ski resort. The park also features numerous waterfalls, meadows, and wildlife, including elk, deer, and black bears.

5. Leavenworth

Leavenworth is a charming Bavarian-themed town nestled in the Cascade Mountains in Washington. Here you can stroll along the town’s streets lined with Alpine-style buildings, shop for souvenirs, or indulge in traditional German food and drink.

Plus, it’s the filming location for the movie “Harry and the Hendersons”.

If you are into nutcrackers, you won’t want to miss the 5,000 on display at the Nutcracker Museum. The town also hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, including Oktoberfest and Christmas lighting ceremonies.

If you don’t have a car or just prefer the benefits of having a guide, check out this highly-rated tour that also visits Deception Falls. Reserve your Leavenworth exclusive tour from Seattle here.

Seattle weekend getaway destinations (or long day trips from Seattle)

6. mount st. helens national volcanic monument.

2 hours and 35 minutes

The Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument is a fascinating destination for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and those who remember its 1980 eruption, which was our motivation on our first visit only a few years later.

We hiked through the monument’s trails to view the damage caused by the volcano’s eruption. Today, the Johnston Ridge Observatory offers the option to learn more about the volcano’s history.

The monument also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

To make this very long day trip bettter, we recommend letting someone else do the driving. Plus, having a guide will get you to the highlights like old-growth forests, wildflower-filled meadows, and thundering waterfalls. Options include hiking or walking either a little or not at all. Reserve your Mount Rainier full-day tour from Seattle here.

7. Olympic National Park

2 hours and 10 minutes

Located on the Olympic Peninsula, Olympic National Park is a breathtaking natural wonderland with views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged mountains, and old-growth forests.

You can explore the park’s numerous hiking trails, go fishing, or even take a dip in the hot springs. One unique feature of the park is the Hoh Rainforest , a lush and verdant area that receives nearly 12 feet of rainfall per year.

At more than 900,000 acres, you won’t see much of it as one of your Seattle day trips. If you don’t have time to make it one of your Seattle weekend getaways, one long day is worth the effort. Another alternative is to take a guided trekking tour that will hit the highlights. Reserve your Olympic National Park tour from Seattle here .

8. San Juan Islands

2 hours and 30 minutes

The San Juan Islands are a group of islands in the Salish Sea known for their stunning natural beauty and unique wildlife. Three popular activities are whale watching, sea kayaking, and hiking on the island’s trails.

The islands are also home to numerous art galleries, shops, and restaurants, as well as the charming town of Friday Harbor.

If you have more money than time, you can fly here.

Renting a car

Unless you are using your own vehicle, you will need to hire a car. We always rent from RentalCars. As an aggregator, they offer a comprehensive list of multinational and local rental car agents, ratings on specific car types, and agency ratings. Importantly, they often have lower prices than going direct.

Whether you rent from them or not, it’s still the perfect place to begin your search. Plus, if anything goes wrong, we have one central point of contact that to date has provided us with outstanding service. Start your search or reserve your rental car here.

Day trips from Seattle featured above

While there are plenty of things to do in Seattle , it’s nice to get out for a while.

• Snoqualmie Falls
• Bainbridge Island
• Mount Rainier National Park
• Leavenworth, Washington
• Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument
• Olympic National Park
• San Juan Islands

Save on your trip with these resources

These are our go-to companies when we travel. We believe this list to be the best in each category. You can’t go wrong using them on your trip too.

• Flights : we use Expedia for the best and cheapest flight options.
• Accommodations: we use Booking.com (hotels), VRBO (self-contained), or Hostelworld (budget).
• Cars (gas or electric): we use RentalCars to search for deals and dealer ratings.
• Motorcycles : we have heard good things about BikesBooking .
• Campervans or Motorhomes : we use Campstar where Albom Adventures readers get a 3% discount.
• Private guides : we often find the best option is to work with a private guide .
• Travel Insurance: while not required, we always opt for travel insurance and start at InsureMyTrip to compare coverage plans.

Check out our travel resources page for more companies that we use when you travel.

Save for later

If you enjoyed this article on day trips from Seattle, please share it on social media and save it for later on Pinterest.

Which of these quick trips from Seattle are on your bucket list?

More from the Pacific Northwest you might like …

Top 5 Things to do in Astoria – Oregon’s Northernmost Coastal Community

Hidden SF – Prohibition Secrets Remain in this San Francisco Hotel

National Parks in Western US: Our Top 21 Epic Picks

Vancouver Itinerary: Enjoying an Exquisite Canadian City

Photo Credits:

All photos on this page are either shot by our team and watermarked as such or stock images from Depositphotos .

About Rhonda Albom

Capturing the essence of travel through photography, Rhonda Albom is the primary author and photographer at Albom Adventures. She is an American expat based in New Zealand. She travels the world with her husband.

Reader Interactions

September 2, 2024 at 12:46 am

I love how many great outdoor adventures there are so close to Seattle! I haven’t made it to Mount Ranier National Park yet, but would love to on my next trip to Seattle.

September 1, 2024 at 3:16 pm

I was only able to do 2 things on your list (Olympic National Park and Bainbridge Island), which means I must go back and visit Leavenworth, Snoqualmie Falls, and more!

September 1, 2024 at 9:46 am

Great list! We haven’t made it to Mount St. Helens yet. Our other favorites tend to be over the border near Vancouver.

September 1, 2024 at 8:37 am

Soooo many good spots to go for day trips in this area! We have to cross the border for any of these – but it just shows we need to spend more time in Washington!

I think you might looove the Mount Baker area as well!!

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7 Labor Day Trip Tips for Those Traveling with a Loved One with Dementia

(August 28, 2024) — If you are one of the many people taking an end-of-summer getaway this Labor Day weekend, there are special steps you should take if you are also traveling with someone who has dementia. The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is offering 7 tips to help caregivers traveling with a loved one with a dementia-related illness make their trip as smooth as possible.  “One last summer trip on Labor Day weekend can mean dealing with heavy traffic and packed airports, challenges which become even greater if you’re traveling with someone who has dementia,” said Jennifer Reeder, LCSW, AFA’s Director of Educational and Social Services. “Whether it’s a quick road trip or flying far away, there are preparations and adaptations caregivers should make to help their loved ones with dementia feel more comfortable and relaxed while traveling.” AFA recommends taking the following 7 steps: •  Simplify the itinerary.  Keep the travel schedule simple. Avoid tight connections or multiple stops if possible. Resist the urge to plan a trip with too many sights, destinations, and attractions. Focus on creating quality time, rather than on the quantity of activities.  •  Plan around the person’s abilities and routine. Incorporate the person, their abilities, and needs into the arrangements; if they travel better at a specific time of day, consider planning accordingly. Small changes can feel overwhelming and stressful to someone with dementia, so to the greatest extent possible, preserve the person’s routine. For example, if they normally eat around a certain time, build that into the itinerary. Choose the travel mode and scheduling that causes the least amount of anxiety and stress possible. •  Stock up before leaving.  Bring snacks, water, activities and other comfort items (i.e., a blanket or the person’s favorite sweater). Include an extra, comfortable set of clothing appropriate for differences and changes in climate. Take important health and legal-related documentation, a list of current medications, and physician information with you. Ensure that the person with dementia wears an ID bracelet with your contact information. If traveling by mass transit: •  Know the security procedures.  Inquire in advance with airports/train stations about security screening procedures. This way, you can familiarize the person beforehand with what will happen at the checkpoint, thus reducing potential anxiety. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) offers assistance with the screening process to air travelers with certain medical conditions, including dementia-related illnesses; contact their TSA Cares Helpline at least 72 hours prior to your flight to learn more. •  Advise the airline.  Let the airline know that you are traveling with someone who has memory impairment and inform them of safety concerns and special needs. •  Find a quiet space.  Some airports have designated quiet areas or rooms for individuals living with dementia, providing a more peaceful space away from the crowds and noise. If traveling by car: •  Build in break time.  Take regular breaks on road trips for food, bathroom visits, and rest. Families with questions about traveling with someone who has a dementia-related illness can speak with a licensed social worker through the AFA Helpline by phone (866-232-8484), text message (646-586-5283), or webchat ( www.alzfdn.org ). The helpline is available seven days a week.

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I spent 8 days in Panama and returned feeling like I visited 3 different countries. Here's why it's worth a trip.

• I visited Panama for the first time and explored three different areas of the Latin American country.
• From modern cities to luxury private islands, each place was drastically different.
• By the time I left Panama, I felt like I had visited three entirely different countries.

I dodged designer dogs — like shih tzus and Pomeranians — in Panama City's Punta Pacifica neighborhood .

Dozens of skyscrapers surrounded me. Inside the complexes were ritzy condominiums home to Panama's wealthy elite. The neighborhood epitomized a city — a dense population, traffic, and tall buildings.

I'd be carted off to a completely new destination in less than a day. Boquete — still in Panama — was drastically different than Panama City.

A small rainforest town, Boquete is a place where few traffic lights exist, and American boomers have flocked for retirement . Instead of skyscrapers, I found lush mountains in every direction.

Fast forward another 48 hours, and I was transported to the coast of Chiriqui. Here, nothing reached for the sky. Instead, a flat ocean and sandy beaches met the horizon.

It was my first time in Panama, and in a matter of eight days, I felt like I had explored three completely different countries.

Related stories

Panama is home to rainforests, cities, beaches, and a rich food scene

Nature lovers, beachgoers, luxury lodgers, partiers, families, retirees, adventurers, relaxers, foodies, city explorers, and history buffs can all find something to love in Panama.

In the country's capital, the Casco Viejo neighborhood resembles New Orleans's French Quarter. Its cobblestone streets, flower-filled windows, and historic squares ooze history. When the sun sets, jazz and salsa waft from nearby rooftop bars.

A short drive from Casco Viejo, you're in the modern neighborhood of Punta Pacifica , which has previously been called a "little Dubai" and the "Miami of Latin America." Here, shopping malls and designer clothes are within arm's reach.

Beyond the city's rich history, there's a rich food scene. Panama City is home to some of the world's best restaurants , like Maito , which placed sixth across Latin America's 50 Best Restaurants 2023 . Between shrimp wontons and kanpachi tartare, the three-course dinner at Maito was the best food I had during my week in Panama.

Outside the capital, Panama is home to diverse destinations offering a range of experiences.

I headed to the coast of Chiriqui, where I spent three nights at Isla Palenque, a five-star private island resort . The trip was the ideal balance of exploration and relaxation.

I spent one evening with the resort's lead naturalist guide. Together, we hiked into the jungle, where we discovered Panama's rich biodiversity, which includes jaguars, porcupines, hummingbirds, critters, and two thousand butterfly species. The next day on the island was spent snorkeling and relaxing on a private beach.

Beyond the country's 1,800 miles of coastline, Panama is home to 13 million acres of rainforest.

In Boquete, a small town in the heart of the country, I explored the rainforest and coffee plantations that fill the region. Here, I took in the cool 70-degree jungle weather, a refreshing break from Panama City's hot temperatures, and sipped on some of the world's most expensive coffee.

Between one plane ride within the country and a few longer drives, I had covered a range of environments and experiences, and there were plenty of destinations I didn't make it to.

Bocas del Toro, an hour's flight from Panama City and close to Costa Rica's border, is home to nine islands and offers another type of vacation. Accommodations range from party hostels to luxury overwater bungalows dotting the shores.

I also missed a trip to the San Blas Islands, an archipelago of 378 islands. They're home to Panama's Indigenous Kuna people, and locals told me I could expect pristine nature, white sandy beaches, and crystal clear waters.

My only criticism is that to explore all Panama has to offer, you'll have to hop on a plane ride or two. Thankfully, the country's flagship carrier, Copa Airlines , was cheap and painless.

While a week offered a range of experiences, I wondered what I could've covered if I had extended my stay by another week or two.

I left singing the praises of Panama

While I have found something to appreciate in every place I've visited, I didn't expect to find so much to love about Panama.

Beyond the country's diverse environments and rich food scene, the Panamains I spoke with were eager to share and showcase their love for their home.

I experienced just a bit of that and still dream about the destination months later.

Watch: Vanishing island forces hundreds of Indigenous families to abandon homes

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11 Of The Best Things To Do In Athlone (And Nearby)

By Author James March

Posted on Last updated: January 2, 2024

There are a fair few things to do in Athlone. You just need a decent itinerary to ensure that your time there is well spent.

You’ll get to the heart of Ireland (quite literally) in Athlone. Only 5 miles from Ireland’s geographical centre, the Midlands’ largest town is full of history, character and also serves as a good base for exploring the region.

From sailing a Viking ship around Lough Ree to sinking pints of plain at Ireland’s oldest pub , there’s plenty of weird and wonderful things to do in Athlone.

Table of Contents

The best things to do in Athlone in 2024

You’ll find the historic town of Athlone in County Westmeath, in Ireland’s often-underappreciated midlands region.

The town is home to plenty of things to see and do and it’s also a stone’s throw from heaps of natural and man-made attractions, as you’ll discover below.

1. Athlone Castle

Photo via Athlone Castle

Dating from the 13th century and survivor of numerous attacks and sieges, a trip to the fortress-like Athlone Castle is one of the most popular things to do in Athlone.

The turmoil it’s been through over the last 800 years means it looks quite different now to how it was originally constructed.

The towers were actually shortened during the Napoleonic Wars to make them less susceptible to cannon fire! Prepare for tales of furious battles, bloodshed and bravery.

There’s a reason that Athlone Castle ranked so high in our guide to the best castles in Ireland . Make sure you etch out some time to explore it.

2. Cycle the Old Rail Trail

Photo via Google Maps

A more genteel way of passing the time in Athlone is to take a ride along the Old Rail Trail to Mullingar.

The trail runs along a 42-kilometre stretch of what was the Midlands Great Western Railway. Now fully paved over, you’ll be able to peacefully glide through serene farmland, under arched bridges and past old disused stations.

42km sounds intimidating but there’s no rush to go the whole distance and there’s plenty of stops along the way to take in this unique experience.

3. Grab a post cycle pint in Sean’s Bar

Sean’s Bar in Athlone – the oldest pub in Ireland (Photo via Sean’s Bar)

From one way of embracing the past to another. If you’re going to relax with a smooth pint after a lengthy bike ride, why not do it at Ireland’s oldest pub ?

A short walk from the River Shannon and said to date from 900AD, Sean’s Bar has been pouring pints (or however they satisfied thirsty customers back then) for over 1000 years.

But don’t spend too long trying to wrap your head around that remarkable fact. Sit back and enjoy the cosy atmosphere and great beer at this Athlone institution.

4. Step back in time on a Viking Cruise (one of the most unique things to do in Athlone)

Photo by Foto Para Ti (Shutterstock)

Got your horned helmet at the ready? Paying tribute to the actual Viking Longships that travelled around the Irish coast over 1200 years ago, Viking Cruises run 75-minute cruises up to Lough Ree – ‘Lake of the Kings’.

Leaving from the quayside at Athlone Castle, the journey is a step back in time on a longboat (almost) where you’ll hear tall tales of the Vikings and their history in the area.

This is a solid option for those of you wondering what to do in Athlone with hard to amuse kids – they’ll (hopefully) love this!

5. Stretch the legs on the Shannon Banks Nature Trail

Photo by Monicami (Shutterstock)

If you’re in search of more active things to do in Athlone, the Shannon Banks Trail is well worth considering. 

If you don’t feel like cycling, then another fine outdoors way of seeing Athlone is along the Shannon Banks Nature Trail .

At a breezy 5km, the trail is a relaxing walk that starts behind Athlone Castle then loops around the banks of the Shannon.

Taking you past marshland, wildlife and the old Athlone Canal, there’s plenty to catch your attention along the way. This is an ideal thing to do in Athlone at any time of year – as long as it doesn’t rain!

6. Then make your belly happy at The Fatted Calf

Photo via the Fatted Calf Athlone on Facebook

You’re going to want a serious feed after all this activity so why not hit up the finest restaurant in Athlone?!

Opened in 2010 by husband and wife team Feargal and Fiona O’Donnell, The Fatted Calf on Church Street serves up the best in modern Irish cuisine using the freshest ingredients and seasonal locally sourced Midlands produce.

Given its name, they unsurprisingly pride themselves on their meat here so order the chargrilled 10oz John Stone 30-day dry-aged Irish tenderloin steak and devour it all.

7. Visit Baysports (one of the best things to do in Athlone with a group)

Photo by Fennell Photography via Ireland’s Content Pool

This. Looks. Deadly! If you’re wondering what to do in Athlone on a hen or stag or with a large group of family or friends, this should be right up your street.

Inflatable waterpark. Perhaps not two words you would have thought go together. But in Athlone they do! Not only that, but Baysports Athlone is Ireland’s largest inflatable waterpark.

An undoubtedly unique spot for a family day out, there’s also kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, pedal boating, rafting, dragon boating, boat trips, and powerboat courses available here.

Located on the west shore of Lough Ree and tucked into Hodson Bay, it’s only a short 10-minute drive from Athlone centre.

8. Or escape to, eh, Athlone Escape Rooms

If you’re wondering what to do in Athlone when it’s lashing down, get yourself to Athlone Escape rooms (one of the best things to do in Athlone when it’s raining!).

Bragging rights are on offer later in the evening if you can say that you were the one who ‘figured it out’.

Located just off Church Street on Friary Lane, Athlone Escape Rooms provides a fiendish set of tests for those intrepid enough to take the challenge on.

From games involving zombie apocalypses to mysterious Celtic stories from deep in Ireland’s past, there’s a whole host of atmospheres and quizzes of differing difficulty on offer here.

Things to do near Athlone

OK. So, the second section of this guide tackles things to do  near  Athlone (within reasonable driving distance).

Below, you’ll discover everything from a heritage park that perfect for a nosey around to a farm that the kids will love.

1. Dún na Sí Amenity & Heritage Park

Photo by Chris Hill via Ireland’s Content Pool

Here’s a quirky old park if ever I’ve seen one – check out some of the sculptures if you don’t believe me!

Only 15 minutes from Athlone and set across 27 acres of serene parkland, Dún na Sí Amenity & Heritage Park is a spot that combines art, history, culture and recreation into one unique space.

Not only is it a cracking place for a stroll, but there’s also plenty of historical sites and wildlife dotted about too.

2. Derryglad Folk and Heritage Museum

Photo via Tourism Ireland (Ireland’s Content Pool)

A treasure trove of Irish history, there are over 6000 artefacts in this eccentric little museum only 15 minutes from Athlone!

Even if you don’t have time to see them all, it’s hard not be impressed at the collection attained by owner Charlie Finneran over the last 35 years.

Covering rural farm life of the 1800’s all the way through to the dusty gramophones of the recent past, this is an epic assortment of memorabilia.

3. Glendeer Pet Farm (one of the best things to do in Athlone with kids)

Photo via Glendeer Pet Farm on Facebook

Here’s an absolute winner if you’re after things to do in Athlone with a young family in tow. Just 10 minutes from the town centre, the Glendeer Pet Farm contains a bunch of the usual Irish farmyard animals.

There’s also an exotic motley crew that you certainly won’t find anywhere on the Emerald Isle.

Think parrots, emus, wallabies, monkeys, raccoons, meerkats and alpacas. Best of all, the kids get to feed the (always obliging) donkeys, goats and sheep too.

What to do in Athlone: where have we missed?

I’m sure that we’ve unintentionally left out some great things to do in Athlone in the guide above. If you have somewhere or something to recommend, let me know below.

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Sidewalk Safari | Part-time Travel Blog

15 fun things to do in athlone and around ireland's midlands.

Things to do in Athlone at a Glance

• Visit the River Shannon Statue

Explore Abbey Graveyard

• Grab a Pint at Sean's Bar

Take an Athlone Photowalk

• Go Boating on Lough Ree
• Visit Shannonbridge
• Tour Clonmacnoise
• Marvel at Corlea Trackway
• Pick up some Lough Ree Gin in Lanesborough

Explore Roscommon Town

• Discover Georgian Birr
• Visit Tullamore Town
• See Clonaslee and the Slieve Bloom Mountains
• Hike Kinnity Forest Recreation Area

Make a Whiskey Pitstop in Kilbeggan

Getting to athlone, fun things to do in athlone, visit the river shannon statue.

Grab a Pint at the Sean's Bar, the Oldest Pub in Ireland

Athlone Day Trip Ideas

Boating on lough ree.

Drive Around Lough Ree and Along the Shannon River

Shannonbridge.

Clonmacnoise

Corlea Trackway

Take a Walk and Pick up Some Gin in Lanesborough

Explore Georgian Birr

Tullamore and the Slieve Bloom Mountains

Tullamore town.

Castlecuffe Ruins

Kinnity Forest Recreation Area

Where to Eat in Athlone and Nearby

Drinks and comfort food on the terrace at dead centre brewing.

Breakfast and Coffee at Fine Wine and Food Co.

Eat an Upscale Dinner at Thyme

Have Breakfast Al Fresco at Corner House Bistro

Enjoy a light lunch with lough ree views at wineport lodge.

Lunch at The Villager in Glasson

Left bank bistro.

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Located in the heart of Ireland, halfway between Dublin and Galway, Athlone is the perfect base to explore many of Ireland's historical, cultural and scenic attractions. Just one hour - 90 minutes will take you to; The Guinness Store House, Dublin Jameson Distillery, Dublin Glendalough Monastic Site and Visitors Centre Newgrange Neolithic Monument and Visitors Centre Galway - City of the Tribes Kylemore Abbey & Visitors Centre Burren and the Cliffs of Moher Bunratty Castle and Folk Park Tayto Park Connemara National Park Dublin Zoo

OTHER THINGS TO DO AROUND ATHLONE

Clonmacnoise Monastic Settlement

Athlone Castle and Visitors Centre

The River Shannon

Dun na Si Amenity and Heritage Park

Old Rail Trail Greenway

• Sean Costello St, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, N37 H348
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