The Best Beaches In Athens
When you think of beaches in Greece, your mind probably goes straight to the Cyclades or Ionian Islands. But guess what? You don't need to jump on a ferry to find a spot to swim. Some of the best beaches in Athens are right on the city’s doorstep. They're perfect for a lazy summer day, a quick dip between museum visits, or a proper seaside escape with souvlaki in hand.
Here’s our pick of the best places to swim around Athens, from easy-to-reach favourites to low-key local secrets.
1. Vouliagmeni Beach
This one’s a classic for a reason. Organised, clean, and close to the city centre, Vouliagmeni Beach is a go-to for locals and in-the-know travellers. You’ll find sun loungers, beach bars, and just enough glam without feeling over the top. It’s ideal if you want a beach day without sacrificing creature comforts.
💶 Entry: Around €5–€10 per person, depending on day and season. Sunbeds and umbrellas extra.
📍 How to get there: 30–40 mins from central Athens by car or taxi.
Astir Beach
2. Astir Beach
If you're in the mood for something a little more upscale, Astir Beach delivers. It’s part of the Four Seasons complex, but anyone can enter for a fee. The sand is soft, the sea is glassy, and the vibe is more rosé all day than cannonballs and beach bats. Think luxury loungers, towel service, and a high chance of spotting someone famous.
💶 Entry: From €60 per person. Premium sunbeds can go up to €120.
📍 How to get there: Located in Vouliagmeni, around 40 minutes from Athens.
3. Yabanaki Beach (Varkiza Resort)
Family-friendly, organised, and with loads of food options nearby, Yabanaki Beach is a favourite for Athenians with kids. There’s a beach club, water sports, and all-day beach bars that serve everything from morning coffee to ouzo cocktails. You can rent sunbeds or lay your towel down in some free areas.
💶 Entry: €5–€7 on weekdays, more on weekends. Sunbeds €10–€30 depending on section.
📍 How to get there: About 45 minutes by car or bus from central Athens.
4. Schinias Beach
Long, sandy, and fringed by a pine forest, Schinias is one of the best beaches near Athens if you’re craving a proper nature escape. It’s popular with windsurfers, swimmers, and people who like their beach with a side of serenity. Bring snacks and shade if you’re heading to the unorganised end.
💶 Entry: Free. Organised areas may charge €10–€15 for loungers.
📍 How to get there: Around 1 hour northeast of Athens by car.
Legrena Beach
5. Legrena Beach
Right near the Temple of Poseidon in Sounio, Legrena is a local favourite that feels remote, even though it’s not far from the city. The beach is a mix of golden sand and smooth pebbles, with clear, deep blue water. It’s mostly unorganised, so bring water, snacks, and sunscreen.
💶 Entry: Free. No loungers or services.
📍 How to get there: 1.5 hours by car along the scenic coastal road.
6. Akti tou Iliou (Sun Beach)
This beach in Alimos is super accessible and surprisingly calm considering how close it is to central Athens. There’s music, cocktails, and crowds in peak summer. It’s not the quietest swim, but for an easy dip after a day exploring the city, this one’s a winner.
💶 Entry: €6–€8. Loungers around €15–€20.
📍 How to get there: About 25 minutes by tram from Syntagma.
7. Hidden Island Beaches (Agistri, Aegina, Kea)
If you’re up for a mini-adventure, jump on a ferry from Piraeus. Agistri has turquoise coves, Aegina offers sandy stretches and pistachio ice cream, and Kea is known for its secluded bays. You’ll feel like you’ve escaped the city completely. And you can be back in time for dinner in Plaka.
💶 Ferry cost: €10–€20 one way. Beaches on these islands are mostly free or low-cost.
📍 How to get there: 40 minutes to 1.5 hours by ferry, depending on the island.
Lake Vouliagmeni
Bonus: Lake Vouliagmeni
Technically not a beach, but still one of the most unique swimming spots in Athens. Lake Vouliagmeni is a natural thermal lake surrounded by cliffs and lush greenery. The mineral-rich water stays warm year-round and is known for its therapeutic properties. It’s a peaceful place to float, relax, or even get a natural pedicure from the little fish that nibble at your toes.
💶 Entry: Around €15–€18 on weekdays, €18–€20 on weekends. No sunbeds, but shaded seating and showers available.
📍 How to get there: In Vouliagmeni, about 30 minutes from central Athens.
Where to Swim in Athens This Summer
Athens isn’t just ruins and rooftop bars. When the mercury hits 35°C, the best thing you can do is pack a towel and hit the beach. From glamorous Vouliagmeni to wild Schinias and the hidden treasures of the Saronic Gulf, Athens has a swim spot for everyone. Just don’t forget the carroten.
