For a Half Day

Temple of Poseidon: Built in 444BC, the Temple of Poseidon (tel: 229 203 9363) stands on the tip of Cape Sounion, overlooking the Aegean Sea, and is a spectacular sight, particularly when there is a good sunset. The coastal road from Athens offers a dramatic route to the ruins - by car or bus. From the city centre, the regular local bus departs from Mavromateon, a side street next to the National Archaeological Museum.

For a Whole Day

Delphi: Pilgrims visited Delphi until the fourth century AD to seek advice from its famous oracles. Situated on dramatic cliffs to the west of Athens, the site includes the Temple of Apollo, the Sacred Way, a vast amphitheatre, a stadium and an excellent museum (tel: 226 508 2312). Regular buses make the three-hour journey from terminal B at Liossion 260 in Athens.

Argo-Saronic Islands: For those short of time, an organised tour group is a good idea. Hydraiki Naval Company (tel: 210 323 0100; website: www.onedaycruise.gr) runs a one-day cruise around the islands of Aegina, Poros and Hydra, with a short stop at each.

Peloponnese: It is possible to take trips from Athens to the major classical sites in the Peloponnese, including Corinth, Epidaurus and Mycenae. Although the modern town of Kórinthos (Corinth) is fairly unpleasant, the surrounding attractions include Ancient Corinth (the Roman capital of Greece) the acropolis of Acrocorinth and the Corinth Canal.

The vast fourth-century-BC theatre at Epidaurus enjoys a spectacular setting, pin-drop acoustics and is remarkably well preserved. It is used for the Epidaurus Festival in July and August (website: www.greekfestival.gr). The site (tel: 275 302 2009) includes the ruins of an extensive spa and sanctuary, as well as a museum. Regular buses make the journey from terminal A, Kifissou 100, in Athens.

Although research suggests Mykínes (Mycenae) was probably not the home of Agamemnon, as some claimed, the site (tel: 275 107 6585) is undeniably impressive and remains one of the most popular in Greece. Highlights include the Lion Gate, the Royal Cemetery and the Treasury of Atreus. Mycenae can be reached on the Náfplio bus from terminal A, Kifissou 100.

Outdoors: There are reasonable beaches south of Athens at Glyfada, Vouliagméni and Varkiza. Bus E22 from Akadimias goes to all three places. Alternatively, the mountains that surround the city offer excellent opportunities for walking and hiking. Mount Párnitha, an hour's drive north of the city, is easily accessible and has well-marked paths.