Athens is more than a city destination. It has plenty to recommend it for a beach break. Summer on the beaches of the 'Athens Riviera' lasts well into October, when sea temperatures are at their warmest after months of summer sun. After dark the city's beaches throb to dance music from glamorous clubs that host party nights as hot as any in Europe. Use our guide to the best beach hotels near Athens and start planning your break.
There's plenty to delight gastronomes too. Many of the best beach hotels near Athens are home to modern fusion restaurants that combine influences from all over the Mediterranean, Asia and the Middle East. Old-school carnivores can head for Vari and its mile-long strip of grill restaurants specialising in lamb, kid, sheep's head, and offal dishes like kokoretsi, gardouba, and mageiritsa (tripe soup). Seafood lovers will find fishy delights at harbours like Rafina.
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Watersports on offer range from windsurfing to scuba diving. For a glimpse of the ancient world, you can visit ancient temple sites like Vravrona and the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion – or spend a day exploring the sights of Athens.
Most hotels are aimed squarely at child-free couples, but some upscale resorts cater to families with facilities like kids' pools, supervised activities and baby-sitting services.
The so-called 'Athens Riviera' begins at Glyfada, a prosperous seaside residential area with a marina, a golf course, and a public beach that is popular with locals. There are also pay beaches with cafés, showers and changing facilities. Fast, user-friendly tram and Metro services link Glyfada with central Athens, so if you want to combine a beach stay with a spot of sightseeing it's an ideal base.
Celebs, plutocrats and oligarchs go to Vouliagmeni to lounge on yachts and private beaches, dine in world-class restaurants, and party in exclusive clubs and cocktail bars. Dress to impress if you want to fit in on Athens's 'Gold Coast' – but for a change of pace you can join Athenians taking the healing waters at beautiful Lake Vouliagmeni. Heading on towards Cape Sounion and the southern tip of Attica, Lagonissi is an even more exclusive seaside neighourhood that is home to some of Greece's wealthiest families – and to one of the most outrageously luxurious resorts in Greece.
At the very tip of Attica, Sounion is landmarked by the columns of the Temple of Poseidon, overlooking a sandy bay of calm, sheltered water. On the east coast, Rafina, the ferry port nearest Athens International Airport, is the perfect place to start (or finish) an island-hopping holiday. It's also a cheerful, low-key resort in its own right, with a small fishing harbour surrounded by seafood restaurants – so it's a great spot for a short stay beside the sea.
Our selection of beach hotels near Athens covers a range of properties from ultra-luxurious resorts to romantic hideaways by the sea. The choice is wide, so we have grouped the hotels broadly in terms of price, plus added suggestions for families and romantics!
Glamorous, ultra-luxurious resorts dominate in and around Vouliagmeni, but more affordable options can be found elsewhere.
Even in ritzy Vouliagmeni there are stylish hotels that won't break the bank but still put you next to beaches, dining and nightlife.
Big resort hotels have ruled the high-end accommodation scene on the Athens Riviera until recently, but a number of more intimate new properties may appeal to couples looking for a romantic beach break.
Finding a luxurious place to stay on the beaches near Athens is easy – but the best hotels are in huge demand throughout the season, so start looking for the perfect place well before you plan to travel.
Still not sure which to book? Expand your search to include all our Athens recommendations, or contact a friendly guru for advice.
Rafina (Athens)
A convenient and affordable stay, outside the bustle of central Athens. A great stopover hotel with comfortable rooms, off street parking, proximity to the airport and the ferry terminal. The sea views and beach action are a real plus!
Vouliagmeni
A super luxury hotel in an upscale district on the edge of Athens. Boutique living areas, rooms and suites are sophisticated in style and have all the mod cons. Wonderful views of the sea, huge lounge areas and a pool, plus easy access to the beach and into Athens. The best of both worlds!
Sounio (Athens-Sounio)
With its lagoon pools, private beach, palm trees and bougainvillea you could be forgiven this was a luxury Caribbean resort, rather than an idyllic Grecian hideaway.There are several smart dining options ranging from fresh seafood to modern Mediterranean - with views of the Temple of Poseidon.
Vouliagmeni (Lagonissi )
A luxury beachfront hotel with epic sea views. The modern buildings reference traditional local architecture. Rooms are classic and contemporary with large windows framing the views and the suites boast private pools. There's a wide choice of restaurants and the indulgent spa is not to be missed!
Vouliagmeni (Vouliagmeni)
This luxury hotel sits on the Athens Riviera, 30 minutes from the historic centre. Rooms are bright and airy, with large windows and furniture in a pleasing pastel palette. The best suites have a private pool with pretty sea views. Dine at one of 7 restaurants or relax by the pool.
Vouliagmeni (Vouliagmeni)
Prestigious hotel and Thalassotherapy centre with a seafront location. Suites are modern and understated with a splash of colour in the soft furnishings. Marble bathrooms add a luxury feel; the best suites have a private terrace with sea views. Book in at the plush spa; a world-class hotel.
Vouliagmeni (Vouliagmeni)
A brand new resort/club on the exclusive Athens Riviera. Rooms are bright and airy with plenty of white and natural wood; the best suites have a private terrace with sea views and living space. Dine at the restaurant or the rooftop, relax at the bar or by the pool. A glamorous, sophisticated stay.
Vouliagmeni (Vouliagmeni)
This smart boutique hotel is located in Vouliagmeni, Athens. Rooms are cosy, dressed in an earthy palette with soft lighting. The best suites have a private terrace with sea views and ample living space. Sample the à la carte menu at the gourmet hotel restaurant; a stylish and modern seafront hotel.
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