A COMPLETE GUIDE TO ATTICA, GREECE

Athens

• Acropolis and Parthenon: The iconic symbol of ancient Greece, the Acropolis is a must-visit and the most iconic site in Greece. The Parthenon, dedicated to Athena, is the highlight of this ancient citadel​.
• Acropolis Museum: Located next to the Acropolis, this museum houses many significant artifacts from the Acropolis site, offering a deep dive into ancient Greek history​ ​.
• Plaka District: Known as the “Neighborhood of the Gods,” Plaka is a charming, gentrified area with narrow streets, neoclassical architecture, and numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants​ . It is the most popular neighborhood with tourists and is where great souvenirs and hotels are found.
• Pyri: Psyri is a vibrant and trendy neighborhood in Athens, known for its eclectic mix of traditional tavernas, hip bars, street art, and artisan shops, its is a very lively area, popular with locals,  that blends old-world charm with contemporary culture
• Antafoitika: a charming, picturesque neighborhood in Athens, nestled on the northeastern slope of the Acropolis, characterized by its narrow, winding streets and whitewashed houses that resemble a Cycladic island village
• National Archaeological Museum: One of the largest and most significant museums in Greece, the NAM  features an extensive collection of artifacts from various periods of Greek history​ ​.
• Ancient Agora of Athens: Once the heart of ancient Athens, this site includes the well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos, which now houses a museum​ ​.
• Mount Lycabettus: This hill offers panoramic views of Athens and can be reached by a funicular railway or by hiking. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists​​.
• The Athenian Riviera: this is a stunning coastal stretch extending from the southern suburbs of Athens to the tip of Cape Sounion, renowned for its beautiful beaches, upscale marinas, and luxurious resorts. The area offers a  blend of natural beauty and vibrant nightlife, with numerous seaside restaurants, beach-clubs, bars, and cultural attractions, including Lake Vouliagmeni, a unique natural thermal lake renowned for its therapeutic properties and stunning surroundings.

Navarchou Apostolis Street, Psyri

Vouliagmeni

Other top towns and villages in Attica

Tatoi

Located on the slopes of Mount Parnitha, Tatoi was the former royal estate and summer palace of the Greek royal family. Dense forests surround the area and there are excellent hiking trails.

Megara

Located west of Athens, Megara is one of the oldest cities in Greece, with a history dating back to ancient times. It played a significant role in Greek history and mythology. Today, Megara is known for its traditional architecture, ancient ruins, good beaches and vibrant local culture. It also has a big agricultural industry, particularly olives and grapes​ 

Saronikos

This municipality encompasses several coastal villages and towns along the Saronic Gulf, including Anavyssos, Palaia Fokaia, and Saronida. The area is renowned for its beautiful beaches, such as Mavro Lithari and Thymari, attracting many summer visitors.

Paiania

Located in the eastern part of Attica, Paiania is known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. It is home to the Vorres Museum, which features contemporary Greek art and traditional folk art. The area also boasts the Koutouki Cave, a stunning limestone cave with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

Rafina

This coastal town is known for its busy port, which serves as a gateway to several Aegean islands. Rafina also offers beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike​.

Lavrio

Once an important mining town, Lavrio now features interesting archaeological sites, including ancient silver mines. The town’s port is charming and serves as a gateway to the nearby island of Kea. Lavrio also has a vibrant town centre with cafes and shops​​.

Kifisia

Located in the northern suburbs of Athens, Kifisia is an affluent area known for its elegant villas, lush parks, and high-end shopping. The neighbourhood offers a mix of modern amenities and historical architecture​​.

Nea Makri

A coastal town known for its long sandy beaches and vibrant summer life. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a variety of water sports, dining options, and cultural events​​.

Rafina

History and Archaeology

Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion

This ancient temple is located on a cliff at the southern tip of the Attica peninsula. It offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and is especially famous for its stunning sunsets​​, making it one of the most popular tours from Athens.

Constructed around 440 BC during the Golden Age of Athens, the temple is a prime example of classical Greek architecture. It features 16 remaining Doric columns, each standing approximately 6 meters high. The site offers a breathtaking view of the Aegean Sea, making it a popular spot for both history enthusiasts and tourists seeking panoramic vistas. The temple’s strategic location served as a key lookout point for ancient Athenians to monitor sea traffic and potential invaders approaching from the sea.

Open daily from 9:30 AM to sunset.

Cost

• • €10 for adults. Reduced admission of €5 is available for senior citizens (over 65 years old) and students.
  • Admission is free for children under 18, as well as university students from EU countries.

Marathon

Known for the Battle of Marathon in 490 BCE, this area has significant historical importance. This battle is celebrated as a pivotal moment in Greek history, marking the defense of Athenian democracy against Persian expansion.

The site includes the Marathon Tomb (Tymvos), a burial mound where the 192 Athenian soldiers who fell in the battle were interred. Visitors can see the Marathon Tomb and the Marathon Museum, which houses artifacts from the battle and the surrounding area​​, including weapons, pottery, and funerary offerings.

Open daily from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM

Cost

• €6 for adults. Reduced admission of €3 is available for senior citizens (over 65 years old) and students.
• Admission is free for children under 18, as well as university students from EU countries.

Eleusis (Elefsina)

Just 40 minutes from downtown Athens is one of the most important religious rites in ancient Greece. An ancient city famous for the Eleusinian Mysteries, the modern town of Elefsina was named the European Capital of Culture in 2021.

The Archaeological Site of Eleusis includes the Sanctuary of Demeter and Persephone​. It is quite a surprise to discover these significant ruins in amongst one the most industrial areas of Greece but hard core history buffs will find it worthwhile.

Kaisariani Monastery

The Kaisariani Monastery, situated on the slopes of Mount Hymettus near Athens, is a tranquil and historic landmark dating back to the 11th century.

Renowned for its well-preserved Byzantine architecture, the monastery features a central church (Katholikon) dedicated to the Presentation of the Virgin Mary, adorned with beautiful frescoes and an elegant dome.

Surrounded by lush greenery and ancient olive trees, the monastery grounds also include a bathhouse, a refectory, and monks’ cells, reflecting the monastic life of the period.

Open daily from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Cost: Free (a donation is appreciated)

Archeological Site of Brauron

Brauron was one of twelve cities that made up ancient Attica and was notably a Sanctuary dedicated to the Goddess Artemis, twin sister of Apollo and daughter of Zeus. In Mythology, it is often suggested that this is where King Agamemnon sacrificed his own daughter to appease Artemis.

The site is made up of several attractions:

• the Temple of Artemis
• Archaeological Museum of Brauron
• a Doric Stoa and bridge
• Early Christian Basilica of Brauron and
• Holy Church of Saint George at Brauron

Open daily from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Cost

• €6 for adults. Reduced admission of €3 is available for senior citizens (over 65 years old) and students.
• Admission is free for children under 18, as well as university students from EU countries.

Temple of Artemis at Brauron

Temple of Posiedon

Parks, Nature & Hiking

Schinias National Park:

This park is known for its beautiful beach, wetlands, and pine forest. It’s a great spot for nature lovers and offers opportunities for swimming, bird-watching, and hiking​.

Mount Parnitha:

Mount Parnitha, located near Athens, is the highest mountain in the Attica region, rising to 1,413 meters. It is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife spotting. The mountain is home to the Parnitha National Park, which features dense forests, diverse flora and fauna, and historical sites as well as Lake Beletsi.

Visitors can explore numerous trails, enjoy panoramic views, and visit the well-known Parnitha Casino. The area’s natural beauty and proximity to Athens make it a favorite escape for nature lovers and adventurers.

Mount Hymettus:

Starting from Kaisariani Monastery (see above) hikers can explore a network of trails that offer views of Athens and the surrounding region. The paths take you through pine forests and Mediterranean scrubland.

The mountain is rich in herbs and aromatic plants, making it a favourite spot for nature lovers.

Kithairon Mountain:

Known from Greek mythology and history, Mount Kithairon offers challenging hikes with rewarding views. The mountain is located on the western border of Attica​.

There are trails suitable for all levels of hikers, with varying terrain and elevation.

Lake Marathon:

The area around Lake Marathon is ideal for leisurely walks and picnics. The Marathon Dam and the surrounding nature provide a tranquil setting​.

The lake and its surroundings attract a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for bird-watchers.

Sounion National Park:

Besides the Temple of Poseidon, the area offers several hiking trails along the coast and through forested areas, with stunning sea views and archaeological sites.

The coastal areas around Cape Sounion are excellent for snorkeling and exploring underwater life.

Mount Penteli:

Known for its ancient marble quarries, the mountain offers interesting hikes that explore these historical sites as well as natural caves​​.

Trails on Mount Penteli provide panoramic views of Athens, the Saronic Gulf, and the surrounding countryside.

Cape Sounion and surrounds

Lake Belestsi

The Saronic Islands

The Saronic Islands are a group of Greek islands in the Saronic Gulf, off the coast of Attica, known for their beauty and accessibility. Key islands include:

Salamina (Salamis)

The largest island, close to Piraeus, known for its historical significance in the Battle of Salamis and its diverse beaches.

Aegina

Famous for its pistachio groves, ancient Temple of Aphaia, and charming waterfront town. Aegina a popular weekend getaway for Athenians and as it is only 40 minutes by ferry feels many people commute daily.

Hydra

Renowned for its preserved architecture, car-free streets, and vibrant arts scene. Hydra‘s picturesque harbor and historical mansions attract many visitors with the harbour considered one of the most beautiful in Europe.

Poros

Known for its lush pine forests, Poros offers beautiful beaches, a lively port, and historical sites like the Temple of Poseidon. It is very close to the mainland ( Peloponnese) and extremely popular for yacht charters.

Spetses

Famous for its naval history, elegant mansions, and car-free town center Spetses is home to wealthy Athenian holiday homes and upmarket boutique hotels.  The island hosts the annual Armata Festival, commemorating the Battle of Spetses, as well as and International Film Festival each year.

Hydra Harbour

Temple of Aphaia, Aegina

Attica Wineries

Another welcome surprise about Attika is that is does have several excellent wineries, all in the district of Mesogeia – one of the oldest and largest wine-producing regions of Greece.There are 26 winemakers here in fact.

In Mythology, Dionysus, the God of wine and mirth, entrusted the residents of Attica with the secrets of viticulture and the art of wine drinking.

Here you will also find a very interesting wine museum which is owned and run by the nearby Ampelones Markou Winery.

Our favourite wineries are:

• Papagiannakos was the first bioclimatic winery in Greece and has been also recognised for the stunning architecture of the main building. Opening Hours: Weekdays & Saturdays 8:30 am – 4:00 pm. Sunday by appointment only.
• Domaine Vassiliou: Km 1 Koropi–Markopoulo Avenue, Koropi Attica, Tel: 210 6626870 / 210 6627686, www.vassilioudomaine.gr. The winery is open to visitors by prior arrangement, on weekdays from 9am to 5pm and on Saturdays from 10am to 4pm. Closed on Sundays.
• Nikolou Winery: 8 Nikolaou Ntouni St, Koropi Attica, Tel: 21 0602 0775, www.nikolouwinery.gr

image@papagiannakos winery

Beaches in attica

Visitors to Athens often don’t realise how many good beaches there are close to it. In fact Attica boasts some  94 notable beaches along its coastline, each offering different experiences ranging from organized beaches with full amenities to secluded coves for those seeking privacy.

17 of the beaches are ‘Blue Flag’ beaches meaning they have met stringent measures for cleanliness and water quality.

Some of our favourite beaches in Attica include:

KALAMAKI

Kalamaki Beach is located in Alimos, only eight kilometers from Athens. It’s a small beach with yellow-brown sand visited by different locals and travelers, which is why it gets crowded during the high season.

Kalamaki Beach has many amenities: a rental service of loungers and parasols, changing rooms, toilets, a lifeguard service, and beach restaurants. Around the beach, there are also several good hotels.

Kalamaki Beach is easily accessible, and a large parking spot is located directly on the beach side. It adjoins the even more popular beach of Akti Illiou.

AKTI ILLIOU

Further along from Kalamaki this larger beach starts with popular Bolivar Beach Bar – a year round destination, and ends with Nalu restaurant which adjoins Akanthus Summer Club. This whole stip is extremely popular in summer where Athens spend entire days enjoying the beach and staying well into the night.

ALIMOS

On the other side of Nalu ( a collective development often referred to as ‘Blu’ by locals, is Alimos beach which is where Bikini Beach Bar is found. This is another of the most popular summer destinations for Athenians. At the southern end of the this beach are even more bars and Tavernas – Lafitis Dimitrios Kantina and Ellados Eikones among them.

This area is undergoing a huge transformation – the largest currently in Europe. Alimos used to be home to Athens Airport and that old site is being turned into the impressive and very aspirational Ellinikon Project including beautiful Ellinikon Experience Park.

GLYFADA

Glyfada Beach is located along the coast southeast of Athens and tends to be very busy during the summer season. The beach is pebbly, and the clear waters are perfect for a refreshing swim.

Glyfada Beach is free to enter, and it is partially organized. You will find showers, changing rooms, toilets, a lifeguard service, and some parasols. However, remember that parasols are rented out quickly in the early morning. There are no restaurants and bars on Glyfada Beach, but you can find places to eat nearby.

Glyfada Beach is easily accessible by local bus and by car, but there are no parking lots available in the beach’s proximity.

ASTIR 

Situated along the Athenian Riviera, 30 minutes from Athens, Astir Beach is an exclusive beach club in Greece open to the public for a significant entry fee.

Surrounded by pines, Astir Beach is a 400 meters long sandy beach with incredible high-level facilities: besides lounges and parasols, there are restaurants and bars, boutiques, spa treatments, and free Wi-Fi.

At Astir Beach, you will also find the Astir Ski Club, the Beach Volley Courts, and the Beach Racquets Area.

Make sure to book a sunbed online in advance if you would like to stay at Astir Beach. A big plus? Sunbeds come with towels and a bottle of water!

YABANAKI

Yabanaki Beach is famous for its soft sand and shallow waters. The beach is located in a wide bay, protecting it from strong winds and large waves, which makes it perfect for families with kids.

This beach is very well-organized in summer with many sunbeds and parasols are available for rent, as well as toilets, showers, and changing rooms. Many people play beach sports, such as volley, or water sports like water skiing and windsurfing, to spend some fun time with your friends or family. There is also a kid playground with a train and a bouncy castle.

Porto Rafti

Porto Rafti is one of the most popular places for Athenians to hang out in summer and is a lot less expensive than places on the Riviera like Vouliagmeni and Glyfada.

There are a number of beaches around the town – Agios Spiridonos is the closest and Avalki and Erotospilia are a bit further afield. There are many tavernas, cafes bars and shops lining the coast in this area as well as sailing clubs and watersports.

Vravona

Vravona is a sandy beach located very close to the airport. Part of the beach has big rocks and there is a free beach as well as an organized section with umbrellas and sun loungers run by the big Dolce by Wyndham Hotel. It is also very close to the Archaeological site of Brauron (see above).

Vravona Beach can get very crowded in July and August, given its proximity to Athens and Artemis’s center.

Further reading: The Top Beach Club in Athens

Avlaki Beach, Porto Rafti

ther things to do in Attica

Smart Park Shopping Mall

This Mall is made up of two main centers, with plans afoot to expand and include more shops and a hotel.

Altershops Designer Outlet is one half of the current complex, which is home to a large range of fashion brands, while the other half of the complex is called Smart Park and is full of more mainstream shopping brands, as well as popular Greek department stores such as Hondos and Jumbo.

Connecting the two areas is a large promenade full of cafes and ice cream stores with big, shady trees, and there is also a huge children’s play area with several small rides, a games arcade, and even Dodgem Cars.

Where is Smart Park?

It is located about 15 minutes north-west of the airport, near the town of Spata.

Opening Hours:

Open daily but check the official website for opening times

Other big shopping malls in Attica to check out are 

Other big shopping centres to check out in Attica are:

• The Mall Athens: Located in Maroussi, it is one of the largest shopping centres in Greece with a wide range of stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities.

• Golden Hall: Also situated in Maroussi, this upscale shopping centre offers high-end fashion brands, fine dining, and luxury services.

• Athens Metro Mall: Located in Agios Dimitrios, it features numerous stores, restaurants, and a cinema, making it a popular destination for shopping and leisure.

• River West: Situated in Egaleo, this shopping mall offers a variety of shops, eateries, and entertainment options, including a large supermarket and a cinema complex.

• McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Athens: Located near Spata, this outlet mall offers discounted prices on a wide range of designer brands, as well as dining and entertainment facilities.

• Avenue Mall: Situated in Maroussi, this smaller shopping centre features a selection of retail stores, cafes, and restaurants, providing a more intimate shopping experience.

Smart Park

Athens Zoo

Right next to the Smart Park/Designer outlet mall is the Attica Zoological Park.

Open year-round, this zoo offers visitors the ability to see a wide range of local and international animals as well as join an organized tour to learn more about their programs,  including the Chimpanzee and African Penguin pens.

There are also various special events throughout the year such as World Animal Day, Halloween, and Easter so it pays to check their calendar to plan your visit.

Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 am to 1 hour before sunset

Admission: There is a long price list with lots of concessions and package pricing. Check the official website for more.

Aquapolis Waterpark

Right across from the Zoo is Aquapolis Water Park. Open between May and October each year this a great activity to do with the family along with the Zoo and the Smart, or even just on its own.

Like most water parks it has a bunch of great slides, 17 in fact, and its main one is called King Cobra – a giant red snake that spits you out of its mouth. There is also an artificial beach zone and small slides for small children and novice swimmers.

There are several kiosks selling food and drinks including burgers and kebabs as well as coffee and ice creams. There are also lockers to rent to store your luggage and admission includes free wifi, sunbeds and umbrellas. There is a big free car park out the front.

Opening Hours: Open Daily 10:00 – 18:00, closed Wednesdays

Admission: There is a rather complicated pricing schedule with different rates depending on the time of year and many concessions and passes. See the official site for more.

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