Most people picture the ancient ruins and intricate marble columns when they think of Athens. But what a lot of us don’t realize is that there’s actually so much to discover there, outside the history lessons and what we’ve seen in the encyclopedia books. Beyond the Acropolis lies the beautiful coastal shore of the Athens Riviera, stretching from Piraeus to Cape Sounion. More than an ancient city, you’ll uncover a different side that comes alive in the summer. And if you’re looking for that Mamma Mia experience, these Athens beaches give you that island escape with golden sand and deep blue waters without the bumpy boat ride.
So, if you’re visiting next summer and not quite sure which ones to visit, it’s no biggie. We’ve done the heavy work, so you don’t have to! From local favorites to upscale beach clubs, here’s your guide to seven of the most beautiful Athens beaches you won’t wanna miss on your trip to the capital of Greece.
Best Beaches in Athens
1. Alimos Beach
A sunny day at Kalamaki Beach in Alimos / Photo Credits: Mister No on Panoramio
If you’re on the hunt for the most convenient (and beautiful) Athens beaches, just enough for that sandy experience, the closest to the city center is Alimos Beach. Located around 6 miles away, the beaches in this area offer both free and paid entrances with sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent. More organized beach areas, such as Akti tou Iliou, charge entrance fees ranging from €5 to €10 (USD $5.82 to $11.64). But you can also find equally gorgeous and clean public beachfront areas in Kalamaki with showers and changing areas.
It’s a popular spot among locals, as it not only offers easy access, but it also brings out calm and shallow waters and clean facilities perfect for a relaxing family getaway. Families especially love it for its children’s play areas and other water activities, such as jet skiing and paddleboarding.
How to get to Alimos Beach: Tram T7 from Syntagma to Kalamaki or Marina Alimou.
2. Glyfada Beach
A busy day on Asteras beach in Glyfada, Athens / Photo Credits: dronepicr on Flickr
Among the Athens beaches, you won’t find one as accessible or as effortless as Glyfada Beach. It’s about 30 minutes away by car from central Athens, but easily reachable by tram or bus if you’re planning to commute. At the beach itself, you’ll find designated parking, ramps, and amphibious wheelchairs to help visitors with mobility restrictions enjoy safe access to the water (for free!). Oh, and if you can, don’t forget to bring water shoes, as some sections can be rockier than others!
Even the surrounding neighborhood adds to its charm. Home to many of Greece’s famous personalities and celebrities, some might even call it the Beverly Hills of Athens. You’ll find nice walking trails and biking paths, and even some boats and yacht areas along the way. And within walking distance from the beach, there are also restaurants, shopping districts, and nightlife spots you can hang out in after soaking in the sun.
How to get to Glyfada Beach: Tram T7 from Syntagma to Paralia Glyfadas or Platia Vergoti.
3. Astir Beach
Umbrellas, sunbeds, and sunsets at Astir Beach / Photo Credits: Vouliagmeni on Wikimedia Commons
Known as the crown jewel of the Athens Riviera, Astir Beach changes the pace with its upscale and indulgent beach facilities. Seaside cabanas, gourmet restaurants, exclusive daybeds, you name it. Frequented by famous visitors, from Brigitte Bardot and The Beatles to today’s celebrities, this beach has seen all the A-list action and is often recognized as the best beach club in Athens.
As with most luxury experiences, you’ll need to book your Astir Beach admission ticket in advance. It may be a bit pricier compared to the other Athens beaches, but its powdery sand, crystal-clear water, and unbeatable service surely make up for it. Plus, it’s right next to the Temple of Apollo Zoster—basically a 2-in-1 deal. So, if you’re looking for a high-end adventure, this is the destination for you.
How to get to Astir Beach: Metro (red line) to Elliniko Station, then transfer to Bus 122 to Astir/Laimos.
4. Vouliagmeni Beach
Water sports equipment in Vouliagmeni Beach / Photo Credits: dronepicr on Flickr
Another favorite among locals and travelers alike is the beautiful and well-maintained Vouligmeni Beach. If you’re new to the Athens Riviera, this would be the perfect introduction to Athens beaches, as the water is calm, clear, and perfect for swimming. It comes with an entrance fee of around €10 (USD $11.66), but you can also get free access from the public sections (just don’t forget to bring your own towel).
It’s equipped with lifeguards, showers, shaded areas, tavernas, beach bars, and sports zones, where you can easily spend an entire day without a planned itinerary. Whether you’re travelling with family or friends, this is the best place to simply go for a swim, hang out, play a round of beach volleyball, or enjoy a relaxing picnic at sunset.
How to get to Vouliagmeni Beach: Metro (red line) to Elliniko Station, then transfer to Bus 122 to Vouliagmeni.
5. Varkiza Beach
Wind surfing at Varkiza Beach / Photo Credits: giorgoskontaxis on Panoramio
Does your beach itinerary include windsurfing, kayaking, or generally just a full day of activities? If the answer is yes, look no further than the Varkiza Beach. It’s one of the most popular Athens beaches, catering to families, friends, and anyone who wants to experience more than just a dip in the sea (without denting the wallet).
It’s bright, breezy, spacious, and offers a mix of organized beach clubs and water sports centers to choose from. There are also plenty of restaurants and taverns that serve fresh fish with a side of a lovely sea view, so you can recharge and settle down after a long day of fun.
How to get to Varkiza Beach: KTEL Bus from Pedion Areos terminal to Vari or Saronida.
6. Kavouri Beach
An aerial view of the turquoise waters of Kavouri Beach
Now, who doesn’t love free things? For guaranteed free beach access, Kavouri Beach is your go-to spot. About an hour and a half away from central Athens, Kavouri offers a wide shoreline, clear waters, and a peaceful atmosphere.
It’s less commercialized than some of the bigger Athens beaches, and many locals love coming here on the weekend for its slow and relaxed neighborhood feel. You’ll find both organized areas with sunbeds and totally free sections where you can bring your towel and set up under the shade of trees. If you ask us, Kavouri is definitely one of the most reliable picks if you want something low-cost but genuinely scenic.
How to get to Kavouri Beach: Metro (red line) to Elliniko Station, then transfer to Bus 122 to Kavouri.
7. Sounio Beach
Breathtaking views of the Temple of Poseidon from the Aegean Sea
There are truly so many good beaches in Athens to choose from, but they do say the further down, the better. At the southernmost point of the Athens Riviera is a destination you won’t find anywhere else along the coast. Located below the historic Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion is Sounio Beach, where you’ll discover a uniquely dramatic Greek experience that combines ancient history and coastal beauty.
Swimming here feels equally special, as you're quite frankly in the shadow of one of Greece's most important archaeological sites. It’s definitely farther from the city center than the other beaches on this list, but it’s absolutely worth it.
And if you’re heading south anyway, we highly recommend joining a Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon tour from Athens. After all, what kind of Athens trip would be complete without visiting ancient ruins, right? Plus, it promises not only the convenience of transportation but a sunset to remember.
How to get to Sounio Beach: KTEL bus from Pedion Areos to Cape Sounion
How to Get Around Athens Beaches
Big Bus Athens Hop-on Hop-off sightseeing bus
The best part about this list of Athens beaches is that they all sit along the Athens Riviera and are about 30–90 minutes from the city center, which means getting around is relatively easy. Even if you’re not renting a car or riding a direct taxi, most of these beaches are connected by the Athens Tram, Metro, and Buses that run all the way down the coast. There are also Athens hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tours that cover the Athenian Riviera, letting you explore the coastline at your own pace (just be mindful of bus frequency if you opt for this).
If you’re planning to beach-hop, we highly recommend booking a half-day trip from Athens to Cape Sounion, which will actually pass through most of these destinations. It’s especially great for those traveling in larger groups, as you can choose a package of up to 12 pax. And here, you can just sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning views and coastal adventure. No need to worry about commuting, transfers, or route schedules.
Tips for Your Athens Beach Trip
The natural thermal spa of Lake Vouliagmeni
- Go early during peak summer. July and August crowds fill up sunbeds before noon, especially on weekends. So if you can, try to visit on weekdays.
- Bring essentials. Pack SPF, water, a towel, and cash for snacks or rentals.
- Double-check if the beach is free or organized. Some spots require entrance fees or sunbed reservations, while others let you walk in anytime.
- Book ahead for upscale beach clubs. If you’re planning a day at Astir Beach or a weekend visit, it's best to reserve in advance; slots fill fast in peak season.
- Be mindful of your belongings. Tourist-heavy beaches like Alimos have occasional pickpocket incidents. Bring only what you need and avoid leaving valuables unattended.
FAQs About Athens Beaches
What are the best beaches in Athens for first-time visitors?
Vouliagmeni Beach, Alimos Beach, and Glyfada Beach are the most beginner-friendly thanks to their calm waters, easy access, and complete facilities.
What is the Athens Riviera, and which beaches are the most popular along it?
The Athens Riviera refers to the coastline stretching approximately 70 km from Piraeus down to Cape Sounion. The most popular beaches include Astir Beach, Varkiza, Vouliagmeni, Kavouri, and Glyfada.
Is Astir Beach worth the higher entry price?
If you’re chasing the ultimate Greek luxury experience that provides comfort, cleanliness, exclusive facilities, and premium service, Astir Beach is an absolute bang for your buck. But if you prefer a more casual beach day or are budget-conscious, there are other great free beach alternatives.
Are there good beaches in Athens that are free or budget-friendly?
Absolutely! Kavouri Beach, public areas of Vouliagmeni, and parts of Alimos offer free access with plenty of space to lay down a towel.
How do I get to top spots like Varkiza Beach from central Athens?
Varkiza Beach is accessible via bus line 122, which runs regularly throughout the day. The journey takes approximately 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis or ride-sharing services offer direct transportation for shorter journeys of 30–40 minutes. However, many visitors also opt to rent cars for flexibility in exploring the coast.
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