Can You Have a Beach Holiday in Athens? Best Beaches, When to Go & Travel Tips
Can You Have a Beach Holiday in Athens? Best Beaches, When to Go & Travel Tips 🇬🇷🏖️
Athens is best known for its ancient ruins, lively nightlife, and delicious Greek food—but what about beaches?
If you’re wondering whether you can have a beach holiday in Athens, the answer is YES! Athens is home to the Athens Riviera, a stunning coastline just a short drive from the city center, filled with beautiful sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxury beach clubs.
Here’s everything you need to know about Athens’ beach scene, including where to go, the best time to visit, and insider tips for the ultimate Athens beach getaway.
🌅 Best Beaches for a Beach Holiday in Athens
The Athens Riviera stretches for over 50 km along the Aegean Sea, offering both organized beaches with sunbeds & beach bars as well as natural, untouched coves.
1. Vouliagmeni Beach – The Best Beach Near Athens 🏝️
Vouliagmeni Beach is one of the most famous and luxurious beaches in Athens, offering a mix of soft sand, crystal-clear waters, and top-notch facilities.
🏖️ Why Visit Vouliagmeni Beach?
✔ Organized beach with sunbeds, umbrellas & showers.
✔ Family-friendly & very clean.
✔ Near Vouliagmeni Lake, a natural thermal spa.
✔ Great seafood restaurants nearby.
🔹 How to Get There: Take a bus or taxi from central Athens (about 30 minutes).
2. Astir Beach – The Most Luxurious Beach in Athens 🌊
If you’re looking for a high-end beach experience, Astir Beach in Vouliagmeni is the place to be. It’s a private, exclusive beach with luxury sunbeds, fine dining, and VIP service.
🏖️ Why Visit Astir Beach?
✔ Soft golden sand & calm turquoise waters.
✔ Luxury facilities & spa treatments.
✔ Celebrity hotspot & perfect for Instagram photos.
✔ Historic ruins of the Temple of Apollo nearby.
🔹 How to Get There: Take a taxi or bus from Athens (about 30 minutes).
🔹 Entrance Fee: Prices range from €25 to €50, depending on the season.
3. Schinias Beach – The Best Natural Beach Near Athens 🌴
If you prefer a long, natural beach with no crowds, Schinias Beach is perfect. It’s a protected national park with pine forests and crystal-clear waters.
🏖️ Why Visit Schinias Beach?
✔ Long sandy beach, great for long walks.
✔ Surrounded by nature & away from the city crowds.
✔ Great for windsurfing & kitesurfing.
✔ Less commercial, so bring your own snacks & water.
🔹 How to Get There: Drive or take a bus to Marathon (about 1 hour from Athens).
4. Varkiza Beach – A Fun Beach for Water Sports & Beach Bars 🏖️
Varkiza Beach offers a mix of soft sand, water sports, and a lively atmosphere. It’s great for families, couples, and groups of friends.
🏖️ Why Visit Varkiza Beach?
✔ Large sandy beach with clear blue water.
✔ Beach clubs, tavernas & cocktail bars nearby.
✔ Great for jet skiing, paddleboarding & beach volleyball.
✔ Less crowded than Vouliagmeni & Astir Beach.
🔹 How to Get There: Take a bus or taxi from Athens (about 40 minutes).
5. Edem Beach – The Closest Beach to Athens 🌞
If you want a quick beach escape without leaving the city, Edem Beach is just 15 minutes from central Athens.
🏖️ Why Visit Edem Beach?
✔ Easily accessible by tram.
✔ Great for a quick swim & sunset views.
✔ Beach bars & restaurants along the promenade.
✔ Perfect for a short, relaxing break from sightseeing.
🔹 How to Get There: Take the Tram T5 from central Athens (about 15 minutes).
🌞 Best Time for a Beach Holiday in Athens
Athens has hot summers and mild winters, making it a great year-round destination.
✔ Best time to visit: May – October (warm weather & perfect sea temperatures!)
✔ Warmest water temperatures: July – September (ideal for swimming & sunbathing!)
✔ Avoid: August (extremely hot & busy with both tourists and locals!)
💡 Essential Tips for a Beach Holiday in Athens
✔ Watch Out for Entrance Fees – Some beaches, like Astir Beach, charge for entry, while others are free public beaches.
✔ Bring Water & Sunscreen – The Greek sun is strong, so stay hydrated & use SPF.
✔ Avoid Peak Crowds – Visit early in the morning or on weekdays for fewer crowds.
✔ Try Local Seafood – Fresh grilled fish, octopus, and Greek salads taste even better by the beach!
✔ Public Transport is Limited – Renting a car or taking a taxi is often the best way to reach the best beaches.
🏝️ Final Thoughts: Should You Have a Beach Holiday in Athens?
✅ Yes! Athens offers beautiful sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a mix of luxury beach clubs and natural coastal escapes—perfect for a beach getaway combined with history, culture, and amazing food. Whether you’re relaxing in Vouliagmeni, partying at Varkiza, or exploring the hidden beaches of Schinias, a beach holiday in Athens is totally possible!
💬 Have you ever visited a beach in Athens? Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments! 👇
