Sea breeze getaways to destinations a breath away from Athens that combine beaches with crystal clear waters and cozy tavernas with delicious flavors.
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 vacation yet, there are destinations perfect for a quick escape. Whether it's a day trip or a weekend, we've rounded up five destinations that will instantly put you in a holiday mood, 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 travel even without a car, since everything you're looking for can be found in Skala's little harbor. What truly enchants visitors is the lush green landscape meeting the blue waters. If you're in the mood to explore a bit more of the island, you can rent a bicycle.
Swims: In Skala you'll find spots to spread your towel, while you can choose one of the many beach bars on the harbor side and on the other side. Within walking distance you'll come across the small Skliri beach and then Chalikiada, while near Megalochori lies Dragonera.
Food: Sip your ouzo with fresh fish at Mouragio taverna at 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 ideal for weekend getaways. Getting there is easy by boat from Rafina to Marmari, which takes one hour, and from there by car it's just a 15-minute drive. Alternatively, you can get there by car via Chalkida. The beaches are impressive, yet there are also sights of interest such as the Karystos Archaeological Museum and the Bourtzi of Karystos (the settlement's fortress).
Swims: In Karystos you'll swim at Gallida and at Psili Ammos, which is organized. Very close by you'll find Livadaki beach with exotic waters, Katsouli beach, which is shallower and ideal for children, and further on Agia Paraskevi. For an impressive sunset, drive to Loutraki Bourou.
Food: At To 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 homemade dishes, is tucked away in the narrow lanes.
Loutraki
Just an hour from Athens, Loutraki combines organized beaches, thermal baths, and good food. It's a destination ideal for family holidays too, with plenty of options for swimming and going out. Its distance from the capital makes it perfect for last-minute escapes, especially if you don't want to board a ferry. Stroll along the seafront, visit the thermal baths for spa and relaxation, and walk beside the impressive Vouliagmeni Lagoon.
Swims: On Loutraki's beach you'll find many café options with sunbeds. At the Heraion archaeological site on the Perachora peninsula you'll swim at the small sandy beach, while at Skalosia you'll admire nature's wild beauty. All around there are many hidden beaches with more difficult access, such as Mylokopi, that have become known to the wider public in recent years.
Food: For seafood platters visit Ouzeri o Yannis in Loutraki and Maestrali, which is also right by the waves, while if you prefer meat you'll eat at ORMOS Loutraki.
Epidaurus
Palaia Epidaurus is about two hours from Athens and takes center stage every summer thanks to performances at the Ancient Theatre and the small theatre. Beyond its cultural side, it lets you enjoy a unique blend of history and nature. Whether you pair your visit with a performance or not, there's plenty to do there. Still, the beaches with crystal-clear waters are ideal for spending your day and unwinding.
Swims: Visit the beaches Vagionia and Gialasi, which are organized, Kalamaki and Polemarcha. A standout is the impressive Gliati beach where you'll swim over a sunken city.
Food: Mouria taverna 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, Attica's most beautiful beaches are found in Legrena and Sounio, a very good idea if you don't want to stray from Athens. You'll immediately feel as if you're on an island getaway, since within an hour you'll come upon beaches with pristine waters. Don't miss visiting the Temple of Poseidon at sunset, where you'll witness a magical sight, and take a stroll by the sea.
Swims: In Legrena you'll find many well-known and hidden beaches for peace and quiet. Close to the settlement are the famous ones like KAPE and Harakas, as well as Sounio beach in the shadow of the archaeological site.
Food: In Legrena you'll savor seafood meze at Theodoros and Eleni taverna, as well as at Palio Pigadi. At Stamatis taverna you'll travel back in time, at Vallis Syrtaki taverna you'll try seafood, and at Marida you'll eat right by the sea.
