Your Greek Summer Starts at Athens Airport
Most visitors head straight to central Athens after landing—but you have another option. You can take the wheel and experience your very first taste of freedom in Attica, right from the start.
With a car from Sync, you can hit the road directly from Athens International Airport—no queues, no credit card required, and no strings attached. Whether you’re craving a quick dip to shake off the jet lag or ready to dive into a mini coastal road trip, Attica’s beaches offer the perfect introduction to Greece.
This guide will take you through the most beautiful seaside routes and beaches you can explore by car, starting from Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos.”
Eastern Attica: Natural Beaches Just 30 Minutes Away
Only a half-hour drive from the airport, Eastern Attica is home to some of the region’s most authentic and unspoiled beaches—far from the city noise, but close enough to feel effortless.
Schinias
Schinias Beach is a coastal paradise. A long stretch of soft sand, crystal-clear shallow waters, and a pine forest that almost touches the sea. It’s ideal for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking to relax away from loud beach bars. Behind the beach lies the Schinias National Park, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a bit of birdwatching between swims.
Zoumberi & Loutsa (Artemida)
Closer to the airport, the beaches of Loutsa and Zoumberi offer something for everyone—windsurfing, swimming, or fresh seafood right on the sand. These are great for travelers arriving early in the day: enjoy a swim, then sit down for a proper Greek lunch by the sea.
Drive time: ~25–30 minutes
Parking: Free, though weekends may require a bit of patience.
The Athenian Riviera: City Style Meets Summer Escape
Head south via the Attiki Odos and Poseidonos Avenue, and you’ll reach the famed Athenian Riviera—Athens’ luxurious answer to summer living.
Vouliagmeni
Vouliagmeni has something for every taste:
- Astir Beach: upscale, organized, and exclusive
- Vouliagmeni Beach: accessible and affordable, with basic amenities
- Vouliagmeni Lake: a natural thermal spa, perfect for a calm afternoon swim
Kavouri
Right next door, Kavouri offers a more laid-back, local feel. You can park practically on the beach and lay your towel wherever you please. Ideal for spontaneous sunset visits.
Limanakia
Between Vouliagmeni and Sounio lie the Limanakia coves—small, rocky inlets with deep, clear waters. They’re perfect for couples, snorkelers, or anyone seeking a secluded swim.
Drive time: ~45–60 minutes
Parking: Be cautious—some paths down to the water are steep. Sneakers > flip-flops.
Cape Sounio: A Road Trip with Divine Views
This is the most breathtaking coastal drive near Athens. Starting from Varkiza, the seaside road to Cape Sounio hugs the Aegean coast, offering sweeping views around every turn.
Legrena Beach
Before reaching the cape, make a stop at Legrena Beach—a wilder, quieter spot with dark sand and peaceful surroundings. It’s a great alternative if you’re not into crowds or organized beaches.
Temple of Poseidon
For one of the most magical sunsets in Greece, drive all the way to the Temple of Poseidon. Perched on the cliff’s edge, this ancient monument is bathed in golden light as the sun dips into the sea. If you're trying to impress someone visiting Greece for the first time, this is the moment they’ll never forget.
Drive time: ~75 minutes
Parking: Easy and free near the beaches; organized parking at the archaeological site.
🧭 Tips for Driving & Exploring Like a Local
- 📱 Download Google Maps offline in case you lose signal
- 🕒 Avoid exiting Athens between 12:00–14:30 on weekends
- 🧃 Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen—not all beaches have kiosks or beach bars
- 🏖 Floaties, music, and good company = guaranteed success
You, the Car, and the Coastline
There’s no better way to start a Greek holiday than stepping off the plane, into your car, and straight to the sea. No queues, no rental surprises, no compromises—just the car you chose, ready when you are. Sync gives you the freedom to choose your route, your rhythm, and your style.
Book your Sync car today, pick it up right at Athens International Airport, and make your very first Greek kilometers the most memorable ones—where the waves meet the road.
Because summer begins the moment freedom does.
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