Visiting Athens but short on time to explore the islands? You can still enjoy the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea! Just a short distance from vibrant Athens lies the Athens Riviera. Here, you can dive into breathtaking clear blue waters and relax on golden sandy beaches.
Below are my top 5 picks for the best beaches near Athens, in a random order.
The Four Seasons Astir Hotel in Vouliagmeni, features a private beach with ticketed entry. For the first time, Forbes has included this luxury resort from Greece in its list. The beach is easily accessible by Metro and Tram from Syntagma in just 30 minutes. While the prices might be prohibitive for some, it is considered worth it: €30 per person and €15 for children under 12 years old (for 2 sunbeds and 1 umbrella). Prices increase significantly if you want a spot on the frontline or visit on weekends.
Voula offers both organized and non-organized beaches, making it a great choice for easy access. If you’re looking for an organized beach with amenities and activities, I recommend Thalassea. Entrance prices are €7.50 from Monday to Thursday and €9.00 during weekends. Sunbeds and umbrellas are free during the week but vary on weekends. Kids can enter for free. You can reach Voula by taking the red Metro line from Syntagma to Elliniko, then bus No. 122 or a taxi (around 40 minutes).
Schinias Beach offers turquoise waters and a sandy shoreline, surrounded by a forest that gives the feeling of being on an island. The beach is ideal for those seeking a natural experience without beach bars and amenities. Getting to this beach by public transit is complicated, so it’s recommended to have a rental car.
Varkiza Resort Beach is a cosmopolitan beach park offering every amenity and activity you could want for a fun-filled day! From beach bars and restaurants to beach tennis, volleyball, watersports, waterskiing, and more. Prices are €9.50 for adults and €5.00 for kids under 12 years old, with free entry for children under 6 years old during weekdays. On weekends, prices are €14.00 for adults and €5.00 for kids under 12 years old, with free entry for children under 6 years old. Sunbed prices vary depending on the location. There is also free beach space if you bring your own equipment. You can reach the beach park by taking the red line to Agios Dimitrios station and then the 171 bus (around 45 minutes).
- Glyfada is perhaps the area with the most easily accessible beaches from Athens city center. There are several beaches along Glyfada’s long seafront, many of which are free and unorganized, while some are organized with beach bars, amenities, and activities. The beach is most easily reached by taking the A2 bus to the Dikegorika stop.
Credit:SHansche
