Seaside escapes to destinations just a breath away from Athens that combine beaches with crystal-clear waters and quaint tavernas serving delicious dishes.
Crystal-clear waters, endless dips and little tables by the waves with seafood meze. That’s what summer in Greece looks like for most people. If you’re in Athens and haven’t planned a holiday yet, there are destinations perfect for a quick escape. Whether it’s a day trip or a weekend, we’ve gathered five destinations that will put you straight into holiday mode, even at the last minute, with beautiful beaches and great food by the sea for after your swims.
Agistri
A stone’s throw from Piraeus lies Agistri and it’s ideal even for a day trip. Its size makes it easy to visit even without a car, since everything you need is in the little harbor of Skala. What truly enchants visitors is the lush green landscape meeting the blue waters. If you’re in the mood to explore the island a bit more, you can rent a bicycle.
Swimming: In Skala you’ll find spots to lay down your towel, and you can choose among the many beach bars both on the harbor side and the other. Within walking distance you’ll come to the small beach of Skliri and then Chalikiada, while near Megalochori you’ll find Dragonera.
Food: Sip your ouzo with fresh fish at Taverna Mouragio on Skala’s harbor, try traditional Greek meze at Toxotis and seafood at Ligo Krasi, ligo thalassa.
Karystos
The small seaside paradise of South Evia, Karystos, is perfect for weekend getaways. Getting there is easy by ferry from Rafina to Marmari, which takes one hour, and from there with a car the distance is just 15 minutes. Alternatively you can reach it by car via Chalkida. The beaches are impressive, however there are also sights such as the Archaeological Museum of Karystos and the Bourtzi of Karystos (the settlement’s fortress), which are of interest.
Swimming: In Karystos itself you’ll swim at Gallida and at Psili Ammos, which is organized. Very close you’ll come upon Livadaki beach with exotic waters, Katsouli beach which is shallower and ideal for children, and further on Agia Paraskevi. For a spectacular sunset drive to Loutraki Bourou.
Food: At Choni you’ll order meats, as at Pigi. At Taverna tou Kiouki you’ll try seafood with views of the little fishing boats, while Kavo Doro with its home-style dishes is found in the narrow lanes.
Loutraki
Just one hour from Athens, Loutraki combines organized beaches, thermal baths and good food. It’s a destination ideal for family holidays too, with a wealth of options for swimming and going out. Its distance from the capital makes it ideal for last-minute getaways, especially if you don’t want to get on a ferry. Take a stroll along the seafront, visit the thermal baths for spa and relaxation and walk beside the impressive Vouliagmeni lagoon.
Swimming: On Loutraki’s beach you’ll find many options in cafés with sun loungers. At the archaeological site of the Heraion on the Perachora peninsula you’ll swim at the small sandy beach, while at Skalosia you’ll admire the raw beauty of nature. All around there are many hidden beaches with more difficult access, such as Mylokopi, which have become known to the general public in recent years.
Food: For seafood assortments visit Ouzeri o Giannis in Loutraki and Maïstrali, which is also right by the waves, while if you prefer meats you’ll eat at ORMOS Loutraki.
Epidaurus
Palaia Epidaurus is about two hours from Athens and shines every summer thanks to the performances at the Ancient Theatre and the small theatre. Beyond its cultural side, it gives you the chance to enjoy a unique blend of history and nature. Whether you combine it with a performance or not, there’s plenty to do there. However, the beaches with crystal-clear waters are ideal for spending your day and relaxing.
Swimming: Visit the beaches Vagionia and Yialasi, which are organized, Kalamaki and Polemarcha. Standing out is the impressive Gliati beach where you’ll swim above a sunken city.
Food: Taverna Mouria by the sea serves fresh fish, at Klimata you’ll eat seafood and traditional Greek dishes, and at Perivoli tis Gogos meats take center stage.
Legrena – Sounio
For many, the most beautiful beaches of Attica are found in Legrena and Sounio, which make a very good idea if you don’t want to go far from Athens. You’ll immediately feel as if you’re on an island destination, since within an hour, you’ll come upon beaches with crystal-clear waters. Don’t forget to visit the Temple of Poseidon at sunset, where you’ll witness a magical sight, and take a stroll by the sea.
Swimming: In Legrena you’ll find many open as well as hidden beaches for peace and quiet. Close to the settlement are the well-known ones such as KAPE and Harakas, as well as Sounio beach in the shadow of the archaeological site.
Food: In Legrena you’ll enjoy seafood meze at the taverna Theodoros and Eleni, and at Palio Pigadi. At Taverna Stamatis you’ll travel back in time, at Taverna Vallis Syrtaki you’ll try seafood and at Marida you’ll eat by the sea.
