An October 28th Getaway in Evia island near Athens
October 28th, known as “Ohi (Όχι) Day,” is one of Greece’s most symbolic national holidays, commemorating the proud moment in 1940 when the country said “No” (“Ohi” in Greek) to Italy’s ultimatum during World War II. This bold refusal marked Greece’s entry into the war and became a timeless symbol of courage and national unity.
Each year, the day brings together celebration and reflection, parades, flags fluttering in the autumn breeze, and for many, a perfect opportunity for a short escape near Athens.
In 2025, the holiday falls on a Tuesday, meaning many will take Monday off to create a four-day weekend, ideal for a refreshing autumn getaway full of nature, flavors, and relaxation.
Just over an hour from the capital, Evia Island offers everything for a perfect break: mountain landscapes and coastal beauty, ancient history and traditional villages, all woven together in a destination that feels both near and far from the city’s rhythm.
Here are 10 wonderful destinations for an unforgettable October 28th getaway in Evia, from mountain retreats and seaside escapes to charming towns full of local life.
Kymi – The Balcony of the Aegean
The Kymi, is rightfully known as “the balcony of the Aegean.” From the charming cobblestone lanes of the old town to the port or Paralia of Kymi,the breathtaking view of the endless blue stretches as far as the eye can see.
Its stately appearance, neoclassical houses with tiled roofs, the Folklore Museum of Kymi, and the fact that it is the birthplace of Test-Pap inventor Dr. George Papanikolaou, all compose a destination with deep roots and cultural value. For nature lovers, the Honeftiko area, with its natural water fountains and lush green landscape, offers a refreshing escape just a short distance from the town.
Ideas for the October 28th holiday: After the parade, wander through the narrow streets of the traditional settlement, visit the museum, enjoy a coffee by the seafront, and relax with a view of the Aegean at the end of a peaceful day.
Seta – The Alpine Village of Evia Nestled in Nature
Built at an altitude of around 800 meters, η Seta Seta is one of the most mountainous villages of Evia and resembles an Alpine landscape surrounded by greenery. Dense forests of chestnut, fir, and plane trees, stone houses, and flowing streams create an authentic image of a mountain paradise.
The surrounding trails are ideal for hiking and short nature excursions, while just a few kilometers outside the village, hidden in the lush greenery, lies Panagia Aboudiotissa, a small chapel in a magical setting with springs and plane trees.
Ideas for the October 28th holiday: Start your day with coffee in the village square, then visit Panagia Aboudiotissa for a peaceful autumn walk in nature.
Amarynthos – Escape to a Beloved Seaside Destination Close to Athens
Just half an hour from Chalkida, Amarynthos is one of the most popular seaside destinations in Central Evia. The town combines coastal tranquility with rich history, as important archaeological findings from ancient Amarynthos , dedicated to the goddess Artemis, have been discovered here.
The lively seaside promenade, the lights reflected on the water, and the cafés by the sea create the perfect setting for an autumn escape. A little higher, on the hill of Palaiochora, stand the Byzantine churches of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary and the Transfiguration of the Savior, offering panoramic views and a sense of serenity.
Ideas for the October 28th holiday: After the parade, enjoy coffee or a meal at one of the well-known seaside tavernas of Amarynthos overlooking the Evoikos Gulf, and soak up the gentle autumn sunshine by the sea.
Marmari – Seaside Serenity and Natural Beauty in South Evia
Marmari, is at the southern tip of Evia and exudes an atmosphere of calm and simplicity. This coastal village, with its amphitheatrical view toward the Petalioi islets and a port that feels almost island-like, lies just a breath away from Karystos. The gentle autumn hues, peaceful landscape, and crystal-clear waters create the ideal scene for a relaxing getaway close to Athens.
Megali Ammos Beach, with its unique oval shape and view of the small islets opposite, is perfect for a stroll and photos. And if you’re lucky and the winds are favorable, you might witness an impressive spectacle of kite and wind surfers filling the horizon with color and movement. The small harbor of Marmari comes alive with visitors enjoying coffee or seafood by the water in a quiet, welcoming atmosphere.
Ideas for the October 28th holiday: After the parade, savor fresh seafood at a taverna by the port overlooking the Petalioi and take a peaceful walk along Megali Ammos, letting the autumn sea breeze accompany you.
Steni – Mountain Charm and Authentic Escape on the Slopes of Mount Dirfys
Steni village, nestled at the foot of the imposing Mount Dirfys, the most famous mountain of Evia, is the ultimate autumn mountain destination. Its stone houses, cobbled streets, running streams, and plane trees create the image of a traditional Greek village embraced by nature.
The area is renowned for the Aesthetic Forest of Steni and its trails leading up the slopes of Dirfys, ideal for hiking and short excursions into the wild. In autumn, the forest’s colors shift constantly, offering a magical setting for those seeking peace and fresh mountain air.
Ideas for the October 28th holiday: Enjoy a coffee in the main square beneath the plane trees, then take a stroll or a light hike toward the Dirfys forest, breathing in the crisp mountain air and the scents of nature.
Chalkida – The Beautiful Capital of Evia with a Seaside Breeze
The Chalkida city, capital of Evia, blends the vibrancy of a city with the charm of a seaside escape, just an hour from Athens. Built around the Evripos Strait, it offers ever-changing views and a lively atmosphere all year round.
Walk along the waterfront lined with neoclassical buildings and cafés, visit Karababa Castle across from the old town for panoramic views, and witness the natural phenomenon of the Evripos waters, which change direction several times a day. Chalkida is a city made for strolling, dining, photography, and enjoying the sea breeze.
Ideas for the October 28th holiday: After the morning parade, take a stroll to explore the city, enjoy coffee or a meal by the waterfront, and in the afternoon unwind with a cocktail while watching the sunset over the Evian Gulf.
Nea Artaki – Seaside Beauty and Flavors of the Evian Gulf
The Nea Artaki town,just a few kilometers north of Chalkida, is a seaside destination with a genuinely island-like atmosphere. Its harbor with fishing boats, small beaches, and cozy tavernas right by the sea make it an ideal spot for a relaxed getaway close to Athens.
The town is famous for its seafood meze and fresh fish, while in the afternoon the promenade fills with people enjoying their walk and coffee with a view of the Evian Gulf. The slow rhythm of life and warm hospitality make Nea Artaki an authentic, laid-back destination for all seasons.
Ideas for the October 28th holiday: After the parade in Chalkida, head to Nea Artaki to enjoy fresh fish and ouzo at the well-known tavernas by the harbor, then take a seaside stroll at sunset.
Agia Anna – From the Mountains to the Sea of Agkali
The Agia Anna village, is one of the best-known villages of northern Evia, built within a lush forest of pines and chestnut trees, just a short distance from the sea. The village preserves its traditional charm with stone houses, a central square shaded by plane trees, and a sense of authentic Greek hospitality that makes every visitor feel at home.
Just below lies Agkali, the beach of Agia Anna, with its long sandy shore and crystal-clear waters. In October, the landscape takes on a calmer atmosphere, perfect for seaside walks, relaxation, and peaceful moments overlooking the Aegean.
Ideas for the October 28th holiday: Head to Agia Anna for a coffee in the village square, then enjoy lunch or drinks by the sea in Agkali, admiring the Aegean and the warm autumn light.
Limni – The Picturesque Seaside Gem of North Evia
The Limni town, is one of the most atmospheric small towns on the island. With Mount Kandili rising behind it and the calm North Evian Gulf stretching before it, Limni radiates a unique sense of tranquility and natural beauty.
Its neoclassical houses with tiled roofs, charming seaside promenade with cafés, and slow-paced rhythm of life make it a destination perfect for strolls, relaxation, or a romantic sunset by the sea.
Ideas for the October 28th holiday: After the morning parade, enjoy coffee on the waterfront of Limni, continue with fresh fish at a seaside taverna, and end your day with a drink or cocktail watching the sunset over the Evian Gulf.
Edipsos – Wellness, Thermal Waters, and Autumn Relaxation
The Edipsos city, Greece’s most famous spa town, is synonymous with relaxation and rejuvenation. With a history stretching back centuries, as its thermal springs were already known in ancient times, it remains a destination where natural beauty meets a deep sense of well-being.
The town unfolds amphitheatrically above the North Evian Gulf, offering stunning sea views. At the thermal springs of Edipsos, the rising steam creates a magical atmosphere, especially in autumn, while the seaside cafés and pedestrian streets invite you to slow down and unwind.
Ideas for the October 28th holiday: After the parade, enjoy a relaxing bath in the thermal waters or a gentle stroll along the promenade, and finish your day with dinner or drinks overlooking the Evian Gulf.
Why Escape to Evia island for the October 28th Holiday?
Evia, so close to Athens yet full of variety, offers destinations for every taste, from mountain villages nestled among fir trees to seaside towns overlooking the Aegean.
October 28th, 2025, falls on a Tuesday, giving many the chance to enjoy a four-day getaway filled with sights, flavors, and moments of relaxation. Whether you choose the lively atmosphere of Chalkida, the tradition of Steni, the island-like charm of Marmari, or the tranquility of Limni and Aidipsos, Evia awaits with landscapes that change at every turn and experiences that combine nature, culture, and genuine hospitality.
Discover more destinations and ideas at AmazingEvia.com, the most complete travel guide for Evia.
