Athens Riviera : Holidays & More
Introduction
Athens Riviera Holidays – A few kilometers outside Athens, the urban landscape gives way to a unique seaside resort. This gorgeous stretch of coastline with its green-blue water, organised beaches and rocky coves is teeming with five-star resorts, spas, esplanades, marinas, windsurfing and sailing. Combined with the ideal climate, the Athens Riviera makes you feel as if you’re on an endless summer holidays. Your excursion to the southern suburbs begins from Faliro and reaches Sounion. The tram connects Athens – from Syntagma Square – with the southern suburbs, and is a leisurely way to get to the coast. Route T3, which reaches from Faliro until Voula, is the most enjoyable way for you to get to know the coastline. Along the way, you’ll encounter seaside neighborhoods and destinations full of temptations for you to stop and check out: Alimos, Glyfada, Voula, Vouliagmeni, Varkiza, Lagonissi, Saronida, Anavyssos are all perfect for swimming or a stroll, with shopping, dining and more.
In this corner of Athens you’ll find organized, emerald water beaches, and rocky coves perfect for a swim. There is certainly no shortage of inviting sand or Blue Flag awards on stretches of coast like Eden Beach at Mavro Lithari, the beaches at Anavyssos, Varkiza, Asteras Vouliagmenis, Kochilia in Lagonissi and many more. Five-star resorts with spas, esplanades, palm trees, sea sports, sailing and even golf at the modern Glyfada Golf Club await you. Traditional tavernas and gourmet restaurants serve freshly caught fish. The beat goes on at numerous beach bars and exclusive nightclubs where you will dance until dawn, barefoot on the sand. Here the sun shines bright and the laughter rings out loud all year round. If you are a sailing enthusiast, the Athens Riviera has many marinas from which you can set sail for beaches and villages in the Peloponnese (Loutra Oraias Elenis, Korfo, Epidaurus), Sounion – cruising by Athens’ cosmopolitan beaches – as well as the islands near Athens, in the Saronic Gulf. Fully-organised marinas in the area can be found in Flisvos, at Faliro-SEF, in Alimos, Glyfada and Vouliagmeni. An overnight excursion to the nearby Temple of Poseidon in Sounion, especially when there is a full moon, is a majestic experience.
On the tip of this unique coastline, you’ll find, where you’ll admire the Temple of Poseidon – one of the most significant monuments of Ancient Greece, and one of the most important attractions in Athens. The energy of the landscape is indescribable, and has inspired myths and legends. This is where Aegeus, king of Athens, jumped to his death, mistakenly thinking that he’d lost Theseus, his only son, to the Minotaur in the labyrinth. Every evening the sun’s rays play hide and seek between the marble columns, then dance down to add a sparkle to the sea below.And finally, when night falls, you’ll enjoy the coast’s nightlife: in Alimos, Glyfada, Vouliagmeni and Varkiza the beach bars are filled with people enjoying their cocktails, dancing until dawn and making summer memories. Welcome to the Athens Riviera, where summer never ends.
The Most Popular Attractions in the Athens Riviera
Temple of Poseidon
A visit to Sounion is more than just an excursion, it is an ethereal journey. When you get to the Temple of Poseidon, situated at the top of the cliff at Cape Sounion, you leave the crowds behind and become one with the gods. Feel the energy of this landscape, drenched in the same light as in ancient times. A place of myths and legends: this is where Aegeus, king of Athens, jumped to his death, mistakenly thinking that he’d lost Theseus, his only son, to the Minotaur in the labyrinth. And here, at Attica’s southernmost tip, the Doric Temple of Poseidon was built (around the same time as the Parthenon, 440 BC), standing proudly above the sea that the god adored. Sounion is the first and last sight for mariners and it is without doubt a vision that will stay with you forever.
Lavrio
This port is unlike any other. Lavrio has a 4,000-year-old mining history. Discover the 19th-century mining works, ruins of the the steam-powered laundry and the ancient silver-mining tunnels. Admire the industrial building complex of the former Compagnie Française des Mines, in what is now the Technological and Culture Park, which belongs to the National Technical University of Athens. Visit the palm-tree grove and Mineralogical Museum, housed in a building from 1875. On the way to Sounion, near the village of Kamariza, you’ll encounter ‘chaos’, an impressive geological phenomenon of vertical cliffs in shades of grey and orange, with a depth of 55m.
Lake Vouliagmeni
A miracle of nature: emerald waters that remain at a temperature between 20 and 29 degrees Celsius, embraced by red rocks. These natural hot springs with labyrinthine underwater caves were formed by the precipitation in what was once, in prehistoric times, a huge cave. It has been declared a natural monument and belongs to the pan-European network of protected Natura 2000 areas. (entrance: 15 euros on weekdays and 18 euros on weekends)
Vouliagmeni : Chapels
The riviera has unexpectedly beautiful churches. In Vouliagmeni, you will find two unique chapels: That of St George Kavouri, a white, simple construction with curves and arches, which calms you down just by looking at it and has a paved area in front with pines, benches and lamp posts.The second one is that of St Nicholas at Vouliagmeni, a small church, hand built entirely in 1947 by painter/sculptor Nikos Xenos – according to a marble inscription. The building is quite eccentric; made with stones and pebbles, with marble representations, fish, sailboats, and anchors, it seems to combine Byzantine architecture with popular aesthetics. When you look at it, you may think that it could have been built by one of Theophilos’ students.
Vouliagmeni : Ice Cream
Aqua Marina (15 Aghios Panteleimonas, tel. +30 210.896.1214) is a landmark for those with a sweet tooth: although it serves meals, it is more famous for its sweets, which include Chicago or Black Venus ice cream, viennoiseries and homemade whipped cream. Created by Epirote Vassilis Giogas, it is a timeless hangout for residents of the southern suburbs, which has enjoyed great moments of glory and still holds a piece of the old Vouliagmeni glamour.
Vari Outdoor Cinema
To reach Cine Ria (8 Afroditis & Vari, tel. +30 210.897.0844, cineria.gr), you must pass through Limanakia, with the legendary Lefteris’ Canteen (formerly Jo’s Canteen), which has fed entire generations, Island club and restaurant and Varkiza Square. The name Cine Ria comes from Sotiria, the owner’s wife; he opened the cinema in 1963 and ran it with his sons, as his grandson Sotiris explains. Cine Ria is a warm family place, with clients who live in the neighborhood, as well as clients from all over Athens. Projections include “European cinema, French comedies, Spanish thrillers” as well as “kid’s movies and blockbusters.” One of the best assets is a small bar named Bobina, located outside, that feeds spectators as well as “outside” clients with cocktails inspired by good – and mainly Hollywood – cinema.
Sunset at Saronida
Between Lagonisi and Anavyssos there is a place named “Mountain Peak.” If your car is powerful enough, you will almost reach the top, just like us – we arrived at a relatively high point where we enjoyed the calm and the sunset with a view of the horizon and the Arsida islet, located opposite the small bays of Anavyssos.
Shortly after Saronida you will find Mavro Lithari beach, loved by Athenians; on Sundays, it is usually filled with people. The beach is quite long, has sand and small pebbles, free umbrellas and sunbeds, two beach bars with backgammon players, swings, and a 1980s carelessness in the air, which stands in stark contrast to the strict 2020 pandemic regime. Close to Lithari, you will find Lavraki (tel. +30 229.105.5171), a hangout for fish eaters, with mezzes to choose from on a tray (fava, tarama, tzatziki, avocado), seafood and a selection of ouzo and tsipouro.
Best Athens Riviera Beaches
The star beach of the Athens Riviera is the sophisticated Asteras Vouliagmenis, with its luxury sun beds, volleyball courts and myriad dining options. Since 1959, it has been considered the beach to see and be seen on. Other great beaches spanning the coast are Loubarda, Agia Marina, Iliopoulos, Mavro Lithari, Eden and Saronida. Sailing enthusiasts will be able to discover numerous coves and bays by boat near Athens. The many organised marinas in Attica are the perfect starting point. You can find marinas in Zea, in Flisvos– considered to rival that of Monaco – in Faliro-SEF, Alimos, Glyfada and Vouliagmeni.
KATAFYGI BEACH : Once you’ve passed both Alykes in Anavyssos and Thymari further along on Sounio Avenue, you ‘ll come across a sign for Aiolos, a building cooperative of the National Bank, located on a curve in the road in Palaia Fokaia. The larger of its two beaches is visible from the road before you reach the settlement, while the smaller one is accessible via the settlement itself. Both are pebble beaches. Because they’re sheltered from both north and south winds, the waters are tranquil, and they also deepen gradually, which is ideal for kids. The little Church of Panaghia Katafygiotissa stands right where a craggy outcropping separates the two beaches. Snow-white and modest, this small place of worship stands on a stretch of coast that offered locals a place to hide and a conveniently discreet escape route, particularly whenever political tensions ran high.
KLADIOU BAY: Kladiou Bay, which is nestled between the beaches of Kavouri and Akti Vouliagmenis, holds many pleasant surprises in store. This quiet, natural anchorage has clear turquoise and blue waters, smaller coves that you can discover and explore while swimming, white sands, and little shady spots ideal for laying out your towel. To get there, turn right onto the little road just after Ai-Yiorgis. Directions from your GPS will lead you to the end of the road. Leave your car in the shade (trees are to be found on both sides) and follow the cobblestone path, which at some points has a number of steps. The vegetation at the start of the path is dense: prickly-pear trees, olive trees, oleanders, pine trees and kermes oaks cover the hillside that you’re descending. The beach has a number of lentisk shrubs, both in the sand and on the rocks.
KAVATZA BEACH: A dip at Kavatza conjures memories of childhood summers, evoking the days before beach bars entered into the picture, times when you would just find a good spot in the shade under some tamarisk trees and play hide-and-seek behind the bushes. It’s a medium-sized beach, and at some points the vegetation runs right down to the water. There are also two old abandoned houses that help you understand what life must have been like here in bygone days. If you’re coming from Athens, you’ll find the beach after you pass the Temple of Poseidon. It lies just a few meters from the road, and a single curve separates it from Syrtaki Taverna (114 Souniou, Tel. (+30) 22920.391.25), where you can head to for a meal following your swim. You should note that your GPS will tell you when you’re above the beach but won’t show any way to get to there from the road, so be sure to look for the little bridge with the metal bars. From there, you’ll be able to make your way down on foot and, once you’ve walked a few dozen meters, the whole beach will unfold before your eyes. You need to be a bit careful driving because the road is full of curves and, consequently, it’s easy to overshoot the turn-off. What’s more, only a small section of the beach is visible from the road, keeping the existence of such an attractive beach a valuable secret.
VAMVAKOUSI BEACH: Its name comes from the well-known Vamvakousi bakery (61st km on Sounio Avenue, Tel. (+30) 22920.392.61), a good place to make a stop to pick up some supplies (their tasty carob breadsticks are well worth sampling). Very few people, however, are aware that about 150m behind the bakery is a beautiful beach where locals hang out. Take the little road located to the right of the building and follow it to the end. When you see the small opening with the tamarisk trees and oleanders, continue along the trail on your right and, after about 20 meters on a sandy trail, you’ll come to the beach. The small bay in front of the beach is narrow and flanked by high sides, so from early on in the evening one part of the beach is in shade. On one end, an old landslide has created a natural pool, which you can reach either by walking over the fallen rocks (these extend out into the sea) or by swimming there. The beach is not sandy, but it does have very small pebbles and clear, azure waters.
TSIOU BEACH: Although we’d looked at the map and followed the directions given by the GPS, we still needed to ask someone, “Is this the right way to Tsiou Beach?” The first two people we stopped were unable to help, but the third provided us with the information we needed: “Follow the sign that says ‘Akrotiri’ until you reach a flat, open space. Park your car there and go down to the beach on foot. You’ll see a trail.” Indeed, we found the lay-by, where another three vehicles had already parked, with ease. We stood back from the edge of the rocks that encircle the beach, surveying the scene from up high: tranquility; clear, azure waters; and very few swimmers in the sea. The buzz surrounding this beach grows louder with each passing year; to date, however, the difficulty in reaching it has safeguarded it from the crowds. Tip: be sure to bring all the necessities (water, food and whatever else you’ll require) with you.
THYMARI BEACH: Thymari is located on the 55th kilometer of Sounio Avenue, the road that winds along the Attic coastline and links Athens and Sounion. Because of its many twists and turns, this route demands special attention. That may be why so many drivers overlook the charms of the area, preferring to keep their eyes fixed on the road. Two enticing beaches are to be found on the same bay – one is sandy, the other pebbly. They are named after a local settlement. For those interested in facilities, there’s a beach bar that’s not usually very crowded or noisy. Alternatively, you can put up your own beach umbrella and procure any essentials either from the bar or from a big kiosk located on the opposite side of Sounio Avenue.
ARCHIEPISKOPI BEACH: Turn off of Kavouriou Avenue onto Litous Street and head in the direction of the Margi Hotel (11 Litous, Tel. (+30) 210.892.9000). Keep in mind that, after your swim, you might want to stop back here at this hotel to enjoy a drink, a revitalizing smoothie or some food. Park near the end of Litous Street before it reaches the sea, not far from the Oceanis Café, and look for the metal bars indicating where the Margi property ends. That is the location of the entrance point to a grove that will lead you to Archiepiskopi Beach. Follow the well-trodden path and, when it’s possible, the sound of the sea. You’ll come to a small beach that’s a favorite among young people, small groups of friends, and couples, all of them scattered about on the sand, some with umbrellas, others with tents set up near the rocks. Be mindful of the weather, as northerly winds can send seaweed ashore on one of its sides. If you swim about 20 meters straight out, you’ll notice Zen (formerly Niriides), a serviced beach over on your right that offers sun loungers and all the usual comforts. There’s a little road that leads there.
POUNTA ZEZA: Are you keen on swimming around a sunken city? According to historical records and findings brought to light by underwater archaeological activities, this was once the location of an ancient settlement. The beach is sandy and easily accessed; there’s a sign on Sounio Avenue telling you where to turn off. Just five minutes later, you’ll have reached the shore and will be choosing the tamarisk tree that will shade you. In the past, one section of the beach had sun loungers for rent while the other part was for general public use. This year, it is expected that sun loungers will be placed in sections of both Pounta Zeza and the nearby Limani Passa by the beginning of August. Until recently, it was mostly local area residents who enjoyed the beach; however, of late its fame has spread to the other municipalities in Attica, owing, no doubt, to its clear waters, and to the fact that the bay is sheltered from the north wind. If you go early in the morning, there’s a possibility that you’ll run into kids from the nearby summer camp.
ASTIR BEACH: The ultimate luxury beach experience, Astir Beach is considered one of the top spots for a summer swim in Athens. Located in the chic southern suburb of Vouliagmeni, Astir offers a full range of high-quality services, from free WiFi across the beach, to the ability to pre-book one of the large and comfortable sun-loungers. And of course, a wide selection of coffees, ice creams, food and drink are all available. All of this of course comes at a price – Astir is one of the relatively few beaches with an entrance fee which is about 25 euros during the week and 40 euros on the weekends per adult. But if what you are after is some pampering (as well as some fascinating people watching) then it’s worth the fee. Even despite the high price weekends can still get very busy so head there early to guarantee getting an umbrella (or prebook). The beach is open from 08:00-21:00, although you can visit the restaurant until midnight.
RIBAS BEACH: Ribas was a legendary nightspot in Varkiza. It also lent its name to the beach located just down below it. The northern section of the beach is where you should head if you’re seeking the nudist area. If not, simply take a comfortable seat on the big white rocks or dive straight into the clear blue waters, which attract swimmers who don’t mind giving up the comforts of a serviced beach. There are spots where your feet can touch the seabed and where you can safely enter or exit the sea; in other words, you don’t need to be Indiana Jones to enjoy the place!
LIMANI PASSA (THE PASHA’S PORT): Poseidonia was an important ancient settlement, and the capital of the demos of Sounio in antiquity. Even today, the visitor can see a number of archaeological remains scattered around the area, which includes Pasalimani, Poseidonia’s beach. Today, Limani Passa (or Akti Poseidonias) attracts swimmers not only from the surrounding areas, but from the whole of Attica as well. Access is easy, the waters are crystal-clear, the sand is fine and you will also find little trees offering shade (it is probable that, by the end of July, beach umbrellas will also have been put up in one of its sections). What a lot of people might not know is that the area inland from the beach has been designated an archaeological site. Significant ancient finds have been unearthed there, including parts of columns, which you can see if you take a walk around the area.
