Attica’s Treasures: Best Places to Visit Close to Athens
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Beyond Athens: Discovering the Wonders of Attica
Most people know that Athens is home to the iconic Acropolis, numerous other important archaeological sites, and major museums. However, not everyone knows that Athens is the only European capital located by the sea. We’d like to introduce you to the best places to visit in Attica.
Located on the Attica Peninsula, Athens is surrounded by a scenic landscape rich in ancient myths and legends. In addition to its 6,000-year history, Attica beckons travelers with its tranquil bays, picturesque coves, rugged cliffs, unspoiled beaches, majestic mountains, and pleasant Mediterranean climate.
While in Athens, you don’t have to travel far or hop on a ferry to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Within a half-hour drive, you’ll discover fantastic beaches that rival those of the picturesque Greek islands.
If you opt for the island adventure, Attica boasts three seaports: Piraeus, Greece’s largest port, along with Rafina and Lavrio. Cruise ships typically dock at Piraeus, just a half-hour drive from the Acropolis, as well as at the port of Lavrio.
Attica’s popular resorts grace both its eastern and western coasts.
The Athens Riviera (Attica’s Western Coast)
The Athens or Athenian Riviera, known also as the Apollo Coast, starts from Paleo Faliro (just 7 km from the centre of Athens) and stretches along the western coast of Attica to Cape Sounion for about 70 km.
At the beginning of the Riviera, there are one of the largest yacht harbours in Greece – Flisvos Marina and Alimos Marina. This is followed by the fashionable suburbs of Athens – Glyfada, Voula, and Vouliagmeni. Further, there are popular sea resort villages with the cleanest sea, organized beaches, coastal taverns and nightclubs – Varkiza, Lagonissi, and Anavyssos.
The Athens Riviera concludes at Cape Sounion, the southernmost point of Attica, home to the world-famous Temple of Poseidon. Read more about Athens Riviera.
Attica’s Eastern Coast
On the eastern coast of Attica, you will find charming beach resorts such as Artemis (Lutsa), Porto Rafti, Rafina, Nea Makri, and Marathon. This picturesque and verdant region is renowned for its olive groves, extensive vineyards, and stunning beaches. Discover more about the Eastern Coast of Attica.
Loutraki Resort
To clarify, the city of Loutraki is administratively part of the Peloponnese peninsula. However, due to its proximity to Athens, being only 80 km away, we have included this resort in our travel guide to the Attica region. Learn more Loutraki Korinthias.
Rental Villas, Houses, and Apartments in Attica
Why do we love Attica so much? Only here you can combine an idyllic beach holiday with ancient sightseeing, excellent shopping, Mediterranean gourmet cuisine, and trendy nightclubs.
For the season 2025, we offer a large selection of luxury villas, cozy holiday houses, and apartments, on the western and the eastern coasts of Attica, and of course, in the Loutraki area.
Hotels booking in Attica
Are you looking the best places and hotels when you visit Attica ? Check the best options at great rates and choose the hotel that suits you.
Booking.comHow to get to Attica
Flight to Athens airport
To get to any resort in Attica you should take a flight from your country to Athens International Airport (IATA code: ATH). The Athens airport “Eleftherios Venizelos” serves international and domestic flights and is located 30 km from the city center. We usually purchase airline tickets on the AVIASALES website which is one of the largest online search engines for flights all over the world. This service helps to compare airfares from hundreds of airlines and dozens of travel agencies and systems and book the cheapest tickets available.
VIP services at Athens Airport
We’re here to make your journey through Athens Airport as smooth and comfortable as possible! Let us take care of all the details for your arrival, departure, and any transit needs with VIP concierge services. Plus, enjoy the exclusive VIP lounge in both the Intra and Extra Schengen areas while you wait for your flight.
Transfer from Athens Airport to Attica Resorts
Whether you are arriving in the country for the first time or not, it is important to have someone waiting for you at the airport. It gives you the confidence that you will reach your destination, avoiding any inconvenience, long waits in taxi queues, and possible overcharging. Our prices include all fares, VAT, and all legal fees, so you know that your transfer’s price is the final price. Comfort and safety are guaranteed, which is especially important if you are traveling with children. We offer transfer services with professional drivers and a modern fleet. All cars and minivans are new and equipped with air conditioning.
Rental car at Athens airport
You can rent also a car from the Athens airport office. To find the perfect car for your trip, we recommend checking DISCOVERCARS. It is a leader in online car rental reservations. It compares car rental deals from many companies so that you can choose which is best for your trip. Many other websites hide fees and extra costs from you. Discover Cars includes all mandatory fees, taxes, and extras in the quoted price so there won’t be any surprises when you arrive at the rental desk.
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Please note that the guide to the best places to visit in Attica contains some affiliate links. That means that we may receive a small commission to help us maintain this site at no extra cost to you. We only recommend services and products that we use and believe will be helpful.
Updated: November 2024