Athens Riviera: A Complete Travel Guide

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Advisor - Rod Carrillo-Lundgren
Curated By

Rod Carrillo-Lundgren

  • Beaches

  • Food & Wine

  • International Travel

  • Luxury Travel

  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel

  • Greece

  • Relaxation

Advisor - Athens Riviera: A Complete Travel Guide
Curator’s statement

The Athens Riviera is the best-kept secret among international travelers. I love the Greek Islands like everyone else, but I’d rather skip the ferries and flights. The Athens Riviera stretches south along the coastline, just outside of Athens. The airport is easily accessible also, meaning you fly into one destination and get to experience two different types of trips. You get a mixture of city and history along with beaches and relaxation. And with tons of luxury resorts, there’s no shortage of delicious food or world-class spas. It’s a destination I love to visit and recommend to my clients.

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Where to stay in the Athens Riviera

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Things to do in the Athens Riviera

Lake Vouliagmeni

The Temple of Poseidon is perched on a cliff at Cape Sounion. It’s great for history buffs, but the panoramic sea views and incredible sunset are also reasons to come.

Lake Vouliagmeni is a natural thermal spa with warm, mineral-rich waters. Tucked between mountains, it’s the perfect spot to unwind. You can even rent lounge chairs or private cabanas.

For shopping, café-hopping and buzzing nightlife, head to Glyfada. It’s trendy and vibrant, great for a leisurely stroll or a fun night out.

Astir Beach or Varkiza Beach are two of the best beaches here. Each has crystal-clear waters, stylish beach clubs and a laid-back vibe.

At Alimos Marina, luxury yachts line the waterfront. You can sip a cocktail at Skipper’s Yacht and Roll Bar while soaking in the views.

The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center is home to the National Library and the Greek National Opera. It also houses Delta, a two Michelin-starred restaurant.

Get up close with rescued sea turtles at the Archelon Sea Turtle Rescue Centre and see conservation efforts in action.

If you’re staying in the Athens Riviera the entire time, you can head into Athens for an easy day trip. You can climb up to the Acropolis, wander the charming streets of Plaka or treasure-hunt at the Monastiraki flea market before retreating back to the coast.

Places to eat & drink in the Athens Riviera

Pelagos - This is as Michelin-starred restaurant at the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel. The sea views are stunning! It's a Mediterranean menu that’s Italian and French fused. You choose from three different tasting menus, all with a focus on seasonal ingredients and seafood.

Ithaki - A longtime favorite in Vouliagmeni, Ithaki specializes in high-end seafood and Mediterranean cuisine. The fresh lobster pasta and grilled fish are stand-outs, as are the sea views.

Akti - A chic seaside restaurant in Voula that’s known for fresh seafood. The atmosphere is relaxed but refined, and it’s perfect for a lunch.

Delta - With two Michelin stars, it’s avant-garde Greek fine dining that focuses on sustainability. It’s inside the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC), so you can hit up both easily.

Bungalow 7 - Mediterranean meets Asian at this stylish beachfront restaurant and bar in Varkiza. It has a laid-back yet upscale vibe — sometimes they’ll even have live music or a DJ. Enjoy sushi, grilled seafood and creative cocktails.

Blue Fish - This Japanese-meets-Greek seafood spot in Vouliagmeni is famous for its signature sashimi and ceviche, all made from local catch. It’s intimate, elegant and has unobstructed views of the bay.

Krabo - Relaxed but upscale, this Mediterranean restaurant in Vouliagmeni has delicious octopus carpaccio and lobster risotto.

Ark - Right on Gyfada’s beachfront, this is a local Mediterranean hangout best known for its wine list.

Patio - A modern Greek restaurant in Vouliagmeni (inside The Margi hotel) and another Michelin-starred hotspot. There are two tasting menus, and many ingredients used are organic and come from their countryside estate, The Margi Farm.

Moorings - A marina-front restaurant in Vouliagmeni that’s upscale but relaxed. It’s a great spot for a romantic dinner or lunch. Don’t miss the black truffle pasta and fresh seafood platters.

Need to know

If you’re looking for a more remote, resort-oriented getaway, head further south. If you want to feel more connected to towns or explore Athens more, you’re best staying in the north part of the Athens Riviera. It’s also the perfect vacation spot for a more relaxing pre- or post-cruise stay.

Advisor - Rod Carrillo-Lundgren

Travel Advisor

Rod Carrillo-Lundgren

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