10 things you must do in Attica in the summer!

Favourite season for children and adults alike, summer in Attica goes hand in hand with carefreeness and indolence, evening strolls, sea breeze and the bright sun warming our hearts. In the summer, our senses become sharper and the unique moments and experiences that Attica offers become even more delightful. Shall we start?

1. Enchanting evenings at the open-air cinemas

They inaugurate summer and beautify our evenings with the colours of twilight, the scents of flowers, delightful flavours and of course our favourite films. Open-air cinemas are to be found everywhere in Attica, from the centre, the neighbourhoods and the suburbs of Athens to the Saronic islands. They are the magical yards, gardens and terraces that “come to life” under the starry sky and the moonlight. An experience not to be missed!

2. Unforgettable moments at the SNFCC oasis

Summer afternoons at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre are simply mesmerising! Picnics at the largest public Mediterranean garden in the world, sailing and kayaking in the canal, endless game at the esplanade and panoramic views all around Attica from the lighthouse that sits on top of the Greek National Opera building. Don’t miss SNFCC’s Summer Nostos Festival which is held every year in June with free entry, a whole week full of music, dance, arts and sports!

3. Off to the beach!

The ultimate summer “sport” in Attica is… beach hopping along its indented coastline. Swimming in crystal blue waters, sea sports for everyone and high-standard services in stunning tourist resorts. For quiet, relaxing moments by the sea or a cosmopolitan atmosphere and luxury, for families, groups of friends or couples, the coasts of Attica match all preferences!

4. Sailing getaways in the Saronic Gulf

In the summer we “set sail” from Attica’s state-of-the-art marinas and enjoy unforgettable cruises as well as yachting and sailing experiences in the Saronic Gulf, with absolute freedom and comfort. Dive into emerald waters from the boat, relax at the secluded coves of the beautiful nearby islands, indulge in memorable gastronomic experiences, and refreshing drinks and sunbathe on board. The ultimate summer delight!

5. Day trip to Vravrona and Marathonas

A culture- and nature lovers’ excursion to one of the most beautiful areas in Attica, with stunning monuments, museums and archaeological sites, combined with the Erassinos River wetland that is ideal for hiking and cycling. In Vravrona we will marvel at the temple of Artemis, one of the most significant sacred and ancient sites in Attica, while in Marathonas we will visit the legendary tumulus of the Athenians, the Archaeological Museum, as well as the lake and the impressive dam.

6. Summer flavour delights

The warm days of summer “call for” flavours that are light and delicious. Savour Vravrona figs, products of Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), prickly pears, organic watermelons, Attica’s apricots (“tsaoulia”) and cherries. The Greek salad (“choriatiki”) with feta cheese and dakos with Kythera rusks are ideal summer dishes, combined perfectly with the fresh fish and seafood you will find in Attica. A glass of cool Savatiano wine and yoghurt with spoon sweets for the end completes a Lucullan feast!

7. Festivals and events for all preferences

Summer is typically the season that features the most festivals throughout Attica. Greek culture and modern artistic creativity take centre stage, the events include theatrical performances, concerts, Greek ancient comedy and tragedy productions, visual art exhibitions, dance performances and film screenings, and take place during the summer months until the beginning of September. Don’t miss out on Athens and Epidaurus Festival and the Open Air Film Festival in various locations in Athens, as well as Aeschylia Festival in Eleusis.

8. Dekapentavgoustos (15th of August): experience “Summer’s Easter” in Attica

The Dormition of the Virgin Mary is celebrated in Attica every year with great glory and reverence. Reviving customs and traditions, and church festivals (“panigyria”) take place all around Attica, e.g. at the Holy Monastery of Panagia ton Kliston (The Virgin of the Closed Defiles), in a lush green landscape north of Fylli, at the Monastery of Faneromeni in Salamis, and at the Church of the Dormition of Virgin Mary in Porto Rafti. In Dekapentavgoustos, Attica “sets the table” with meat-based feasts, accompanied by traditional pies, cool salads and all seasonal goods.

9. Summer equals islands…

The stunning islands of Attica, a stone’s throw away from Piraeus, are the ultimate “must-do” experience of the summer. Find your own little paradise in Aegina, Agistri, Salamis, Poros, Spetses, Hydra, Kythera and Antikythera – islands of unique beauty, which they generously offer to visitors.

10. Refreshing swims in Attica’s hotel pools

Swimming pools with breathtaking views, lounge music and summer cocktails, wonderful flavours and… endless dives! In the hot summer sun, hotels all around Attica offer refreshing oases and services that will… indulge you. Lie down comfortably, put on your sunscreen cream and hat and enjoy your summer holiday in Attica!