Greek hospitality comes second to none. While you’re here, a great place to explore would be Mati. With an effervescent culture, exceptionally good food, and picturesque sandy beaches, a trip here would provide an experience of a lifetime. Apart from being one of the more popular tourist destinations in the country, nearby attractions such as Kanelakis Diving Experiences, Greece Bird Tours, and BOA Base Outdoor Activities provide an adventure-packed day. For a more leisurely experience, tourists can shop at Designer Outlet Athens, explore the Sanctuary of the Egyptian Gods, or go on a wine tour at Papagiannikos Winery. For more activities to add to your itinerary, continue reading to discover the top things to do near Mati, Greece.
1. Walk through the ruins of Brauron
Learning about the history of a place is one thing, but to be able to actually see where the events unfolded is another. The Brauron ruins offer tourists a chance to walk around and see what is left of the ancient city of Attica. Founded in the 8th century BCE and abandoned in the 3rd century BCE, it provides people a glimpse of what life was like during that time.
Brauron
Address: Vravrona 190 03, Greece
Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 8:30am-3:30pm (closed on Tue)
Price: from 3.4 USD (3 EUR)
2. Witness great views at the top of Mount Hymettus
Spanning a 16-kilometer range, Mount Hymettus is a familiar name to anyone who has set foot in Greece. Reaching a peak of 3,366 ft (1,026 m) is the mountain’s highest point, Evzonas. Located at the top of the mountain, hikers will find a transmitter park and military radar. The peak also has a great view of Athens.
During your journey to the top, keep an eye out for the 650 species of flora to be spotted alongside wildlife such as foxes, hedgehogs, birds, and reptiles. A handful of monasteries can also be found scattered on the mountain
Mount Hymettus
Address: East-central Attica, Greece
Price: 3.4 USD (3 EUR)
3. Explore the beautiful Mount Pentelicus
Mount Pentelicus is the second highest mountain out of the five that surround the metropolitan area of Athens. At the north-western edge of the city lies its peak, Pyrgari, towering with an elevation of 1,109 m (3,638.5 ft). Best known for its marble quarries, the mountain’s best asset is now immortalized with a monastery situated on its northern slopes.
There are a lot of different routes to reach the top, whether by foot, bike, or car. The journey is sure to be a scenic one, with a few churches and Davelis Cave along the way.
Mount Pentelicus
Address: Attica, Greece
4. Visit Kaisariani Monastery
The site where Kaisariani Monastery lies has been a worship place since the Byzantine era. Through the years, the landmark continues to be a well-preserved piece of history. Here, you can learn about the rich and layered history of the place, from being home to a shrine for Aphrodite to becoming a utilitarian oil press.
The perfect time to visit would be spring, autumn, or the beginning of summer, when the weather is just right for a picnic under the shade of the mountains. There is also a small coffee shop near the monastery for your caffeine fix.
Kaisariani Monastery
Address: North Mount Hymettus, Athens, Greece
Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 8:30am-3:30pm (closed on Tue)
Price: 2.3 USD (2 EUR)
5. Get closer to nature at Lake Marathon (from USD 132.0)
Lake Marathon is a popular destination near Mati, and this tour will help you maximize a day trip here. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are conveniently included in the package so you won’t have to worry about moving around an unfamiliar area.
This private tour offers an off-road experience, including a 4x4 ride around the lake. You’ll also have the chance to stop by different establishments such as a Greek-style theater and Marathon Dam. With a coffee break in between, your day at Lake Marathon is sure to be chill and rewarding.
Off road experience at Marathon lake with 4x4 vehicles
Duration: 4 to 5 hours
6. Explore the Rafina Port area
While in Greece, you might want to give Rafina Port a visit. It’s a vital part of the country as ships from Mykonos, Paros, Andros, and many more pass here. Because of this, it also provides nice scenic views of the water and the houses along the shore.
Near here are beaches, various seafood restaurants, and different hotels to stay at. This place isn’t only a hotbed for tourists but it is also an ideal place to live in. For a feel of what everyday life is like for the locals, this area would be a nice place to start.
Rafina Port
Address: Rafinas, Rafina 190 09, Greece
Website: Rafina Port
7. Relax and rejuvenate at Schinias Beach
Schinias Beach is one of the best beaches near Athens. It is a perfect spot for a chill day with your travel buddies. It is very spacious so more often than not, it isn’t too crowded for you to enjoy. Visitors can easily find their own space on the beach, among tall pine trees that provide shade under the sun. There are nearby restaurants to enjoy as well if you end up famished after your beach trip.
Schinias Beach
Address: Marathon 190 07, Greece
Price: Free
8. Learn about Greece in the Goulandris Natural History Museum
A good way to spend one of your days during a trip to Greece is to know more about the country. A fun way to learn would be to visit the Goulandris Natural History Museum, which focuses mainly on the natural environment. This museum offers knowledge on the flora and fauna you might encounter during the rest of your vacation here, with educational exhibits for both adults and kids.
It is a nice change of pace from the typical tourist spots and attractions. However, if you need a little break, the property also has a cafe and a shop.
Goulandris Natural History Museum
Address: 13 Levidou street, 145 62 Kifissia
Website: Goulandris Natural History Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am-2:30pm; Sat - Sun: 10am-3pm
Price: 4.5 USD (4 EUR)
9. Enjoy the vibe at Blue Shark Beach Bar
After a long day of traveling to different areas of Athens, the perfect place to cap it off would be Blue Shark Beach Bar. It is just the right spot for friends and family to relax, eat some good food, have a few drinks, and enjoy the beach in front of them. With an outdoor space littered with cushions, mats, and lawn chairs, the vibe it creates makes for a fun and laid-back end-of-the-day activity.
Blue Shark Beach Bar
Address: Nea Makri 190 05, Greece
Opening hours: 10am-10pm (Daily)
10. Check out Attica Zoological Park (from USD 22.05)
Attica Zoological Park is a great destination for bird fanatics who want to visit a landmark that houses the third largest collection of birds in the world. With over 20 ha (49.4 ac) of space, 2,000 animals, and 290 different species, this zoo can easily take up a whole day for you to fully experience. No need to worry about choosing the right day since it is open 365 days a year.
Athens: Full-Day Attica Athens Zoological Park Ticket
Live like a Greek local around Mati
Traveling isn’t just simply trying out the different food and drinks the place has to offer. The best way to fully experience a destination, such as Mati, is by touring the area and visiting its many attractions, from popular to underrated. Vacation like a local by adding these activities and landmarks to your Greek trip itinerary.
History
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