1) Lake Vouliagmeni: A natural thermal spa with year-round warm waters (21°C to 29°C) believed to have healing properties. It’s the perfect place to unwind and recharge. Be sure to book tickets and spa treatments in advance on their website.

2) Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion: This ancient site, perched on a cliff overlooking the Aegean, offers incredible history and breathtaking views. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Vouliagmeni, and we recommend stopping for a seaside lunch at one of the tavernas in Palea Fokea—Galene Fish Restaurant is our favorite!

3) Vouliagmeni Beach: A relaxed sandy beach with calm waters, great for swimming and picnics. For €5, you’ll get access to sun loungers, grassy areas, sports courts, cafes, a playground, and even an inflatable aqua park for kids and kids at heart.

4) Astir Beach: For a touch of luxury, Astir Beach offers private cabanas, high-end dining, and top-notch service. With its chic vibe and gorgeous views of the Aegean, it’s the perfect spot to splurge a little and soak up the sun in style. Reserve your spot here.

5) Boat Trip: Explore the Athenian Riviera from the water! Book a semi-private or private catamaran cruise for stunning coastal views and a truly memorable experience. Check out https://sailingathens.com for options.

6) Explore Glyfada: Just a quick drive away, Glyfada is great for boutique shopping, a variety of restaurants and bars, and a lively nightlife scene.

7) Eat: Vouliagmeni is packed with great restaurants. Here are our top picks (note: some may require reservations in advance):

Upscale dining: Ithaki, En Plo, BlueFish, Malabar and Patio (Michelin-starred) at The Margi, and Krabo Beach Restaurant. For an even broader selection of fine dining, the nearby Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel offers a variety of upscale, creative, and Michelin-starred options worth exploring.

Casual but special: Tylixto (Ryan’s favorite for Greek meats), Sofi’s (a trendy spot for breakfast or lunch), Sardelaki me Thea, and Agora Riviera.

For your sweet tooth: Waffle House (unbeatable!) and Artopolis Bakery for delicious Greek sweets to take home.

Enjoy exploring this beautiful area—there’s so much to see, eat, and do!

Whether you're spending a few nights in the city center or just visiting for the day, Athens offers plenty of must-see attractions for first-time visitors. For maximum sightseeing flexibility and value, it's hard to beat the City Sightseeing Athens Hop-On Hop-Off Tour. Here are some highlights to include in your itinerary:

1) Acropolis & Acropolis Museum: Discover the iconic ancient citadel and the museum filled with priceless artifacts. Choose a guided tour or explore at your own pace, but aim to visit early or later in the day to avoid crowds. Be prepared for long entrance lines at the museum—consider getting a skip-the-line ticket for faster access.

2) The Ancient Agora: The ancient Agora was the marketplace and the center of everyday life in ancient Athens. For an impressive view of the Agora from afar, head to the north wall of the Acropolis or the roads from the Areopagus. The best place to enter the Agora is at the north gate off Adrianoú Street (near the Church of Saint Philip).

3) Plaka: Stroll through this charming neighborhood, filled with quaint streets, shops, and local eateries.

4) Monastiraki Flea Market: Hunt for unique souvenirs and treasures at this bustling market.

5) Mount Lycabettus: Hike or take a funicular to the top for breathtaking views of the city.

6) Archaeological Museum: Delve into Greece’s rich history at the largest archaeological museum in Greece and one of the greatest antiquities museums in the world.

7) Panathenaic Stadium: Visit the historic stadium that hosted the first modern Olympics in 1896.

8) Kolonaki: Experience upscale shopping and chic cafés in this fashionable neighborhood.