When it comes to Greece, the first thing that comes to many people’s minds is Santorini, where blue waters and white houses interweave. However, there are actually countless coastal treasures around Athens. From sparkling private bays to reef beaches with ancient monuments, the best way to explore the most moving side of the Aegean Sea is to take an in-depth journey along the coastline of Athens.
Ⅰ. Recommended attractions
1. Cape Sounion: Aegean Temple at Sunset
Overview of attractions
Cape Sounion is located about 70 kilometers southeast of the center of Athens and is famous for the Temple of Poseidon. This temple, built in the 5th century BC, is not only an archaeological site, but also a popular spot for viewing because of its beautiful sea views. Standing in front of the temple, you can overlook the entire Aegean Sea, especially at sunset, it is breathtakingly beautiful.
Location and transportation route
You can drive along Poseidonos Avenue along the coast for about 1.5 hours to reach the temple, or take the KTEL bus in the center of Athens for about 2 hours.
Opening hours and travel suggestions
The temple area is open until 8 pm in summer. It is recommended to arrive around 3 pm to avoid the midday heat and take pictures of the beautiful golden light falling on the temple at sunset.
Cost
The ticket price is about 10 euros, and students under 18 and EU students can enter for free.
Recommended booking platform
Viator: Provides round-trip transfer + guided tour package, suitable for travelers who want to save transportation arrangements.
GetYourGuide: Supports booking of “Sounion Sunset Half-Day Tour”, including temple tickets and multilingual guides.
Recommended groups
Couples, photography enthusiasts, history fans, and travelers who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the spectacular sunset.
2. Lake Vouliagmeni: Hidden Geothermal Blue Lake
Overview of the attraction
Lake Vouliagmeni, located in the south of Athens, is a lake-type bay with natural geothermal springs. The lake water remains warm all year round and is rich in minerals, and is known as the “seaside hot spring”. The naturally formed limestone cliffs and the turquoise lake water complement each other, making it a quiet and healing natural secret.
Location and transportation route
It is about 25 kilometers from the center of Athens. You can take the subway to Elliniko Station and then transfer to the bus or taxi.
Opening hours and recommended play time
Open all year round, it is recommended to go in spring and autumn, the water temperature is suitable (22-29°C), avoid high temperatures and crowds.
Cost
Adult tickets are about 15-18 euros, which fluctuates according to the season, including admission and use of changing facilities.
Recommended booking platform
Tiqets: Tickets can be issued instantly, suitable for temporary day trips.
Klook: For Asian travelers, it supports Chinese interface and local currency payment, and some packages include pick-up and drop-off.
Recommended groups
Suitable for families, elderly travelers, couples and travelers who need to relax physically and mentally.
3. Kalamaki Beach: Quiet Greek Lifestyle
Overview of attractions
Kalamaki Beach is a low-key and quiet public beach on the Athens Riviera. There are fine sand, calm waters and a strong local life atmosphere. There are many cafes around, which is perfect for enjoying a leisurely afternoon.
Location and transportation route
Take tram line T3 from the center of Athens, it takes about 40 minutes to reach Kalamaki Station, and it takes 5 minutes to walk to the beach.
Opening hours and recommended play time
Open all day, it is recommended to go from 10 am to 2 pm, the sea water is clear and there are few people.
Cost
Completely free, but some lounge chairs and parasols can be rented for about 3-5 euros.
Recommended booking platforms
No need to book tickets in advance, but you can learn about traffic and weather in advance through the following platforms:
Google Flights + Maps: Learn about flight and traffic connection times.
Momondo: You can combine multiple departure airports and flights.
Recommended groups
Free travelers, backpackers with limited budgets, and local experience enthusiasts.
4. Astir Beach: A high-end holiday paradise in Athens
Overview of attractions
Astir Beach is one of the most luxurious private beaches in southern Athens. It has a first-class environment and is equipped with a five-star restaurant, private dressing rooms, massage areas and water sports facilities. Adjacent to the Astir Palace Resort, it is a hidden cape frequented by many celebrities and politicians.
Location and transportation routes
It is most convenient to drive there by car, about 30 minutes from the city center; you can also take the X96 bus to Vouliagmeni Station and walk for 15 minutes.
Opening hours and recommended play time
9:00-20:00 every day. It is recommended to arrive in the morning to enjoy the less crowded time and the best light.
Costs
Tickets in peak seasons range from 25 to 50 euros, and are slightly more expensive during holidays or weekends. It is recommended to order online in advance.
Recommended booking platforms
Viator: provides beach + luxury SPA day tour packages.
GetYourGuide: Includes round-trip private car transfers and dining vouchers.
Tiqets: Suitable for instant ticket users, especially during the peak summer season to guarantee quotas.
Recommended groups
Couples, honeymooners, high-end vacationers and corporate customized groups.
5. Snemar Marina Bay: The perfect combination of city and sea
Overview of attractions
Snemar Marina (Flisvos Marina) is not only a modern harbor, but also a fashionable and leisure landmark in Athens that integrates sea view trails, food courts, open-air bars, and yacht clubs. There is a long seawall on the west side of the harbor, where you can see the sunset slowly sinking into the sea, full of romantic atmosphere.
Location and transportation routes
Tram T5 line goes directly to Flisvos Station, which is within walking distance. You can also take X96 or multiple city bus lines to get there.
Opening hours and recommended visiting times
The harbor is open all day, and most shops are open from 10 am to 10 pm. It is recommended to arrive in the evening and arrange sightseeing + dinner together.
Cost
Public areas are free, and the prices of restaurants and cafes in the harbor are slightly higher, with an average consumption of about 25 euros per person.
Recommended booking platform
Klook: Launched the “Flisvos Harbor Food Walking Tour”, suitable for first-time visitors.
Viator: Includes a yacht boarding and sea viewing experience package, providing Chinese interpretation services.
Recommended groups
Couples, parent-child families, single travelers, and tourists who love food and seaside walks.
Ⅱ. Practical suggestions: How to efficiently plan a one-day trip to the Athens coastline?
Transportation: car rental or tram?
If you want to travel freely along the coastline of Athens and stop at the attractions at any time, renting a car is an ideal choice. It is recommended to book a car in advance through international platforms such as Rentalcars or DiscoverCars. The daily rental price generally starts at 40 euros. The pick-up point can be selected in the center of Athens or the airport, and the procedure is convenient. If you prefer environmentally friendly travel or have a limited budget, public transportation in Athens is also quite convenient. You can download the official transportation APP and buy a one-day pass (about 4.1 euros), which supports switching between subways, trams and buses, suitable for compact day trips.
Recommended one-day tour platform
If you don’t want to plan your own itinerary, there are many high-quality platforms on the market that provide one-day coastline tour services. GetYourGuide has launched a chartered car service departing from the city center, with an English tour guide and multiple stops, suitable for travelers who want to learn more about the coastal culture. Viator’s “Highlights of the Coastline Tour from Athens” includes transportation, tickets and explanation services, which is an efficient solution for tourists with limited time.
Travel insurance recommendation
Whether you rent a car and drive yourself or join a local group tour, a travel insurance is indispensable. Allianz Travel and World Nomads provide a wide range of insurance services, covering common risks such as sudden medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and luggage loss. They are especially suitable for medium and long-distance trips or for multiple people traveling together, and can effectively ensure a safe and worry-free journey.
The blue of the Aegean Sea belongs not only to the islands, but also to Athens, a city that combines classics and modernity. Those bays hidden on the edge of the city, with the most quiet posture and the most gorgeous scenery, write a unique chapter for every traveler. You don’t have to fly to a distant island, just follow the coastline of Athens, you can meet the most beautiful sea in your heart.
Plan your itinerary now and make the Aegean Sea the most unforgettable scenery on your next trip.
