Athens Riviera
You don't need to get on a ferry to escape the bustle of the Greek capital: take a short bus ride and you'll find superb local beaches along the sheltered Saronic Gulf stretching from the southern suburbs of Athens to the southernmost point of Attica, Cape Sounio. Just 10 miles south of the city –typically a 30-40 minute drive– you will find a place where urban sprawl gives way to an idyllic palm-fringed setting. Take the opportunity to swim, relax at a waterfront café, walk along the picture-perfect pedestrian streets and the marinas, exercise your favourite water sport, shop in one of the area’s modern shopping centres, dine by the sea or entertain yourself in one of the coastal avenue’s buzzing clubs –the young people’s favourite choice– that have actually brought a touch of Mykonos in town! Summer in the city doesn’t sound that bad after all, does it?!
Faliro, Flisvos Marina
Located very close to Athens, yet away from the hustle and the bustle of the city, a wide range of activities on offer and an amazing view to the Saronic Gulf are the reasons why Faliro is the ultimate summer hot spot for the Athenians! Its trademark is of course its marina, a mega-yacht destination that infuses a cosmopolitan flair to the area. Flisvos Park on the other hand is ideal for leisurely strolls and carefree bike rides. Beautiful coasts, recreation parks, playgrounds, shopping centres and stylish restaurants are there to keep up your summer carefree mood!
Glyfada
One of the most elegant districts of Athens, Glyfada stands out for its sandy palm-fringed beaches, its cosmopolitan clubs (where the pulse of the Athens nightlife beats), its polished hotels, boutiques and restaurants as well as its marinas, a much preferred yacht-mooring place for a getaway! Swim in crystal clear waters or enjoy a frappé, a favourite immensely refreshing coffee drink! The authentic frappé is made with Nescafé, and is drunk through a straw!
Extra tip: if you are a golf enthusiast you will be thrilled with the Glyfada Golf Club, the city’s modern 18-hole course!
Voula
Just two miles south of Glyfada lies Voula, home to two amazing beaches and the Riviera’s biggest beach clubs. Enjoy during the day a colourful summer setting that brings to mind a real amusement park with modern beach bars, jet ski equipment, beach volleyball courts, a vibrant dance deck and exciting waterslides, whereas at night you can enjoy a cocktail in one of the district’s elegant clubs!
Extra tip: Voula A’ beach has been awarded a blue flag this year, which makes it ideal (and safe!) for families as well. On Voula B’ beach disabled people can also enjoy a swim thanks to the special infrastructure that has been installed on the beach.
Vouliagmeni
Head east to Vouliagmeni Bay, where you’ll find stunning beaches framed by Mount Hymettus. The area is renowned for its beaches, picturesque marina, turquoise waters and top-notch amenities. For a more laid-back option, visit the public beach—no entry fee required here!
Don’t Miss Vouliagmeni Lake, located at a five-minute walk from the town centre. This natural wonder, surrounded by limestone caves, features mineral-rich waters that are said to have healing properties.
Varkiza
Beyond Vouliagmeni lies the bustling little resort of Varkiza, where an outstanding seascape unfolds with impressive coves below the coastal road. You will have the chance to swim in free or organised beaches with azure waters, to exercise your favourite water sports or enjoy a delicious meal in a picturesque taverna by the sea while sipping a glass of ouzo which perfectly complements fresh seafood!
Extra tip: Windsurfing enthusiasts will be thrilled to exercise their favourite sport in Varkiza since it is considered to offer the best windsurfing infrastructure!
Voula beach
The coastal road continues through marvellous tourist resorts such as Lagonissi and Saronida and ends at Cape Sounio, Attica’s southeastern tip. There you will find the impressive Temple of Poseidon – the last piece of the ancient Athenians’ homeland every time they sailed into the Aegean. Watching the sunset filling the sky with every shade of mauve and pink and making the sea glowing like a sapphire is an unforgettable experience that will weave a powerful spell over you.
How to get there:
• By tram: Choose T1 line from Syntagma towards “Neo Faliro” (Peace and Friendship Stadium station) or T2 line towards Voula (Asklipio Voulas station). You can also board T3 line departing from Voula to Neo Faliro.
• By bus: You can take the Α3 bus route (Akadimia-Glyfada, through Vouliagmenis avenue), the express bus number E22 (from Metro Station Elliniko - to Saronida) and the 171 bus route (from Metro Station Elliniko - to Varkiza)..
