It may be easy to forget when touring around the bustling historical center, but Athens is a coastal city. Long stretches of white and rocky sand line the southern and eastern edges of the metropolis, and in the spring and summer, they are every Athenian’s favorite way to survive the heat. There are both private beaches with cafes and recliners, and more natural beaches sheltered by white cliffs.
Our favorite beaches to visit in Athens
Edem Beach
If you are looking to get to the beach fast, Edem is the closest beach to the center of Athens. Take the tram from central Syntagma square, and the first moment you spot the sea through the windows, hop off! With a small stretch of sand, and calm waters, this is a favorite for Athens’ students looking to squeeze in a quick dip after classes. This beach has no entrance fee, and is open to anyone who wants to spread out a beach towel, so it can get quite crowded on the weekends.
Insider’s tip: We recommend Edem for a quick dip on a weekday after a morning of sight-seeing!
Vouliagmeni Beach
Located in the upscale suburb of Vouliagmeni, this managed beach offers crystal-clear waters and a relaxing atmosphere. The beach has recliners, racquetball, volleyball, showers, a canteen, and a playground so is great for families with beach-goers of all ages. Entrance is 10 euros on weekdays, 15 on weekends. You can reach this beach by taking the red line to Agrioupoli station and then the 122 bus. (You can also visit Lake Vouliagmeni nearby, known for its thermal springs.)
Glyfada Beach
Situated in the coastal suburb of Glyfada, this beach is popular among locals and visitors alike. It offers sandy shores, clear waters, and various nearby beach clubs, cafes, and restaurants. Stretches of the beach are set up with recliners, and other stretches are completely free, so you can choose where you’d like to sit depending on your taste and budget.
Surrounded by pine-studded cliffs, and with a view into the Aegean, this is a truly Athenian experience. This beach is reached most easily by taking the A2 bus until the Dikegorika stop.
Astir Beach
This managed beach in the area of Vouliagmeni offers some really deluxe amenities, including big reclining sunbeds, umbrellas, wifi included, and water sports facilities. You can even book your lounge chair ahead of time to guarantee a full day of relaxation. If you’re looking for somewhere to lounge comfortably, and be served an icy freddo espresso, look no further.
But all this luxury comes with a price: two sun beds will run you 80 euros on a weekday and 160 euros on the weekend.
Varkiza Resort Beach
This beach park offers basically every amenity or activity you could ever want at the beach. In addition to big comfy sunbeds and umbrellas, there’s also a full beach bar, cafe, and restaurant to satisfy your every craving. For more active beach-goers this resort has a whole host of water and beach sports: beach tennis, beach volley, free aqua aerobic and fitness events, water sports, windsurfing, and water skiing.
Located in the suburb of Varkiza, It’s a popular spot for families with children. A simple entrance is around 8 euros, and entrance with a reclining chair will cost 10 euros on weekdays, 20 euros on weekends. You can reach the beach park by taking the red line to Agrioupoli station and then the 171 bus.
Vravrona Beach
This beach is on the eastern side of Athens, close to the international airport. It has a wild sandy pebbled shore, with gorgeous views out to the eastern islands. There are both organized bits of the beach, and plenty of free space to set up your own towel and umbrella.
Since Vravrona beach is not along the popular southern Athens riviera, and can be a bit of a hike to get to with public transit, it is often calmer and less busy than many of the other beaches on our list. To visit Vravrona take the blue line of the metro to the nomismatokopio station, and then the 304 bus.
Schinias Beach
Situated on the northeastern coast of Attica, Schinias Beach is known for its long stretch of soft sand and shallow gentle waters, surrounded by a small forest. If you are looking for a simple au-naturale beach experience, this is the spot. There are no recliners here, and no beach bars– so bring a towel, an umbrella, snacks, drinks, and lots and lots of sunblock.
Insider’s tip: getting to this beach on public transit is complicated and slow, but if you have a rental car it’s an easy one-hour drive!
From upscale luxury to laid-back charm, the beaches near Athens offer something for every traveler seeking a day of sun, sea, and sand. So pack your sunscreen and towel, and discover the best beaches Athens has to offer.