We (a 50s something couple) will be traveling late may to Athens on way back from Istanbul, staying four nights in Greece. We'd be interested to hear suggested day and/or overnight trips from Athens... ie Delphi or one of the islands... what's the best use of our time? a long car trip to Delphi or a ferry to one of the islands? thanks for any guidance. John & Marsha

How about a short flight to an island?

http://en.aegeanair.com/Default.aspx

There's a standard one-day cruise to 3 islands: Hydra, Poros and Aegina. Good sampling of the islands in the Saronic Gulf near Athens. We did this many year ago and really enjoyed it.

We also did a bus day-trip to the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, a fabulous location overlooking the sea.

Here's some other ideas: http://www.athensguide.com/index.html#Getting

Delphi is a fascinating archeological site in a magnificent setting. Definitely worth the trip

theres a great overnight excursion available
from athens you go to delphi for the afternoon and then head to kalambaka for the evening
stay overnight and in the morning go to meteora monasteries...absolutely spectacular ..google and see for yourself

then you travel back to athens ..get back early evening
easy trip and gives you a feel for inland greece

I spent the night in Hydra and enjoyed it..