Southern Suburbs, Athens Riviera

Located in the southern suburbs of Athens, 22 kilometers from the center of the Greek capital and bathed by crystal waters of the Saronic Gulf, Varkiza is another splendid neighborhood of the Athenian Riviera.

From Vouliagmeni to Varkiza, you can choose to take the longer coastal drive to take in the vastness of the sea before your eyes, as opposed to the shorter version of the journey often opted for by many local residents who enjoy this view from their home balconies on a daily basis. Varkiza used to be a fishing area, as the sea there is excellent for such activities. You will often see random fishing boats either ‘parked’ near the shore or bobbing about, or windsurfers gliding on the surface. The main Varkiza bay is ideal for watersports and is the main attraction for the bathers there.
Although mainly a residential area, Varkiza is packed with eateries and restaurants, where you will find a plethora of choices for food you can eat on the go, to accommodate all the youngsters that fill the beaches in the summer. In the winter it is a popular location for lovers of meat as it is right next to Vari, which is renowned for its traditional meat cooking diners. In terms of nightlife, Varkiza is home to the most famous summer club in Athens, the “Island”, a venue built on the rock cliff, serving guests unsurpassable views and aura.

Voula is the next area you’ll find in the Athenian Riviera. Although it is mainly a residential area, it is one of the high profile areas to live in, featuring large houses usually taking advantage of the coast space layout. Here you will find organized places with access to the beach, by paying a small entrance fee you are able to experience the Greek summer in Athens to the fullest! These places are buzzing during the summer and offer sun-beds and umbrellas for rent as well as access to all local amenities. Voula is also very well connected with local transport services.

Kavouri is just alongside Voula as the next area on the coast line. Similar to Voula, it is mainly residential, but provides the guest with scenery of rocky crevices with interspersed sandy stretches which adds a wilder tone to the landscape. The places to go out here are mostly family-owned, quaint, tavernas with great tasting dishes made with love and tradition.

Vouliagmeni is probably the most luxurious of all the Athenian Riviera locations; it is named after the natural lake that formed ages ago due to a landslide. The lake is now used as a freshwater swimming location and the people who use it regularly are witnesses to its soothing effects. Vouliagmeni’s landscape is breathtaking with a small gulf and peninsula forming a lace-like coast. Due to its natural beauty it was considered a holiday destination for the Athenians in the past with resorts and beautiful summer mansions. It still is! Here is our guide to the top things to do in Vouliagmeni.