Porto Rafti Beach in the East of Athens, close to the Athens airport
Athens is not well known abroad for its beaches as it is more famous for its wonderful monuments, attractions and Museums. Athenians though tend to enjoy their nearby clean and easily accessible beaches
If you have a couple of days to spend in the capital city of Greece and are in a situation where if you see another statue of Athena or a Doric column you will scream out, then you may want to try a nearby beach and discover another face of Athens which is rarely publicised.
Beaches closer to Athens
One of the nicest beaches closest to Athens with easy access either by taxi or public bus is Vouliagmeni and a little further out is the beach of Varkiza.
For the closest bus stop to your hotel and time table call 185.
Both are Blue Flag beaches, which means that they meet strict standards set by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). Blue Flag beaches must comply with 29 criteria which include standards for water quality, safety, environmental education and information, the provision of services and general environmental management criteria.
Schinias Beach is in the North and is one of the most trendy beaches with lots of young people, beach sports etc.
Beaches a little further out of the city
Anavissos, CapeSounion. Porto Rafti, Marathon, Schinias,Nea Makri, Vavrona and Agia Marina beaches are also beautiful beaches a little further out, and are very popular among Athenians as quite a few have summer homes in the areas.
Cape Sounion has a very nice is the beach where you can combine a visit to the Poseidon Temple, a day at the beach with a seaside lunch or dinner at one of the many fish taverns in the area and and a magnificent sunset visit to the Temple of Poseidon.
A day trip to Rafina is also a splendid choice because it combines a great beach, quite a few good restaurants where you can enjoy fresh fish and seafood with a glass of wine or ouzo . If you have a couple of days you can make a combination trip and take the ferry from the port of Rafina to popular islands such as Mykonos, Paros, Tinos and Andros.
Vouliagmeni Beach is in the South, easily accessible, with crystal clear blue waters and scenic views of the islands of the Saronic Gulf.
All in all, a perfect, easy and affordable vacation idea.
All of the above mentioned beaches are easily accessible by car, taxi or public
transport. We will be happy to assist you though with any queries you may have at
info@athenswalkingtours.gr or at www.oasa.gr or by calling at +30 210 8808000 or by going to Mavrommataion street close to Victoria metro station where all buses depart roughly every hour.
