Things To Do
in Ellinikó

Ellinikó is a coastal suburb just south of Athens, where residential calm meets easy access to the sea. It sits along the Athens Riviera, offering a laid-back atmosphere with seaside promenades and quick links to the city’s culture. The area is known for its beaches, modern amenities, and rapidly evolving coastlines tied to the Hellenikon coast developments.

Visitors will find a blend of relaxed beach life, scenic views, and convenient connections to central Athens and beyond.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Greek pastries and fresh coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming streets, visiting the ancient ruins and historical sites that dot the landscape. The morning sun casts a warm glow on the architecture, providing a perfect backdrop for memorable photos.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the local museum to learn more about the rich history and culture of Ellinikó. Spend some time wandering through the vibrant artisan shops, where you can find handcrafted goods and souvenirs. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby taverna, sampling local dishes such as moussaka and fresh seafood.

evening
:

As the sun sets, take a walk along the waterfront promenade, soaking in the beautiful views of the sea. Choose a seaside restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in fresh fish grilled to perfection. End the evening with a leisurely stroll back through the historic center, perhaps stopping for a gelato at a local shop.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Begin your day at the stunning nearby beaches, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze. Rent a sunbed and umbrella, or simply lay on the soft sand as you listen to the gentle waves lapping at the shore. If you're feeling adventurous, sign up for a morning session of paddleboarding or snorkeling to explore the marine life.

afternoon
:

After a morning of relaxation, grab lunch at a beach bar offering fresh salads and grilled seafood, enjoying your meal with a view of the sparkling water. Spend the afternoon trying out various water sports such as kayaking or jet skiing, or simply float in the turquoise waters. As the sun begins to lower in the sky, take a moment to unwind on the beach with a good book.

evening
:

As twilight approaches, enjoy a seaside dinner at a popular beach restaurant, indulging in a delicious seafood platter. The sound of live music fills the air, creating a lively atmosphere as you savor your meal. After dinner, take a romantic walk along the beach, watching the stars twinkle above the calm sea.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee$2-4
🚆Public transportation day pass$3-6
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$70-150
🛍️Souvenirs and small shopping$5-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Easy access to Athens and the coast, with beach life nearby
  • Great balance of relaxation and city culture
  • Strong seafood and Mediterranean cuisine
  • Developing coast with new leisure and dining options
  • Can be busy in peak summer months
  • Some areas require a short drive to central Athens for major sights
  • Coastal traffic can be heavy during rush hour
  • New developments along the coast may still be under construction
  • "Γεια σου" - Hello (informal)
  • "Καλημέρα" - Good morning
  • "Ευχαριστώ" - Thank you
  • "Παρακαλώ" - Please / You're welcome
  • "Μιλάτε Αγγλικά;" - Do you speak English?
  • "Πού είναι το μπάνιο;" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Πόσο κοστίζει;" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Ellinikó

Visit one of these nice places.

Ellinikó Beach Boardwalk

Long sandy stretch with clear waters, palms, and golden hour lighting—ideal for sunrise or sunset shots.

Glyfada Marina Promenade

Polished yachts, blue sea, and modern waterfront architecture provide contemporary coastal imagery.

Varkiza Beach Sunset Point

Wide beach with dramatic skies over the water, perfect for silhouettes and wide-angle compositions.

Mount Hymettus Viewpoint

Rugged green hills with city panorama and sea views on clear days, great for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ellinikó

Greek cuisine shines with fresh seafood, olive oil, herbs, and simple, hearty dishes. In Ellinikó and the surrounding Riviera towns, you’ll find traditional tavernas alongside modern eateries offering Mediterranean flavors and seasonal produce.

Ellinikó Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grilled octopus

Tender octopus char-grilled with lemon, oregano, and olive oil; a seaside staple often best at local tavernas along the coast.

Must-Try!

Souvlaki or Gyros

Skewered grilled meat served with pita, tomatoes, onion, and tzatziki; widely available from street-food stalls and casual eateries.

Spanakopita

A flaky spinach and feta pastry, perfect as a light snack or as part of a meal at tavernas.

Horiatiki (Greek salad)

Tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, onions, green peppers, feta, and olive oil; a refreshing accompaniment to seaside meals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Laiki (local markets) in Glyfada/Voula

Weekly markets where you can buy fresh produce, olives, herbs, and regional specialties; great for a picnic or home-cooked meal.

Street food: souvlaki and gyros stalls

Casual spots offering quick, flavorful bites, perfect for a beachside snack.

Bakery stalls and koulouri

Traditional sesame rings and other baked goods ideal for breakfast or a light snack on the go.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ellinikó experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer highs typically reach the mid-to-upper 30s Celsius (around 90s Fahrenheit), while winter averages hover around 10–15°C (50–59°F). The sea breeze moderates temperatures near the coast, especially in the evenings.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Hospitality and greetings

Greeks are warm and friendly; greet with a polite 'Kalimera' (good morning) or 'Ya sou' (hello).

Religious sites and dress

Dress modestly when visiting churches; remove hats indoors and be respectful during religious practices.

Conversation and pace

Engage in light, friendly conversation; avoid heated political debates in casual settings.

Tipping and payments

Cash is widely accepted; while card payments are common, carry some cash for smaller vendors and tip where appropriate.

Safety Guide

Safety

The area is generally safe for travelers. Stay aware of usual coastal crowding and petty street-level theft in busy tourist spots; keep valuables secure on beaches and in crowded areas. Use licensed taxis or rideshares, and be cautious when driving in peak traffic hours.

Tipping in Ellinikó

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In Greece, tipping is customary but not mandatory. Leave 5-10% if service is good; some larger restaurants include a service charge, so check the bill first.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures, blooming coastal flora, and comfortable hiking conditions. Great for coastal walks and outdoor photography.

Summer

Hot and sunny with busy beaches; bring sun protection, stay hydrated, and time visits for early mornings or late evenings.

Autumn

Pleasant climate with cooler evenings; fewer crowds and good conditions for outdoor activities and photography.

Winter

Mild to cool with occasional rain; sea remains inviting, but some facilities may close; ideal for museum visits and coastal scenery with dramatic skies.

Nightlife Guide

Ellinikó at Night

Ellinikó itself is quieter after dark, but the nearby Athens Riviera towns—Glyfada, Voula, and Varkiza—offer a lively nightlife scene with seaside bars, lounges, live music, and clubs. Expect a mix of relaxed beachside venues and upscale dining followed by cocktails and music along the coast.

Hiking in Ellinikó

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Hymettus (Ymittos) trails

Forest trails with city panoramas and shade; a popular nearby hiking option for a day trip.

Coastal trails toward Varkiza

Smooth coastal paths ideal for walkers and casual hikers looking for ocean views.

Airports

How to reach Ellinikó by plane.

Athens International Airport (ATH)

About 20–35 km from Ellinikó; accessible by taxi, bus, or rail connections to central Athens, with onward connections to the coast.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkable along the coast and within Ellinikó itself; for central Athens sights and inland hikes, a short drive or public transport ride is typical. The coastal promenade is ideal for pedestrian travel, while bikes and scooters enhance mobility along the Riviera.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Quiet residential streets with beaches and parks; many families prefer the area for pace and safety.

Young professionals

Proximity to Athens and developing coastlines attract professionals seeking a balance of work and leisure.

Retirees

Calmer coastal living with access to amenities makes Ellinikó appealing for retirees seeking a relaxed lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Popular across Greece, with local leagues and community clubs nearby.

Basketball

Widely played and watched, with local teams in the Athens metropolitan area.

Water polo

Common in coastal areas and pools; a sport often associated with Greek seaside towns.

Sailing and swimming

Coastal location makes sailing, windsurfing, and open-water swimming accessible.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavy during peak hours around the Athens metropolitan area. Public transport (bus, tram, and metro extensions) provides convenient access to central Athens and the coast; consider pre-planning trips to avoid delays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ellinikó.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Greek cuisine readily accommodates vegetarians with dishes like spanakopita, salads, grilled vegetables, and cheese pastries; when dining out, ask for olive oil-based dressings and avoid meat-based broths. Many tavernas can prepare meat-free versions of classics.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in the Athens area includes public hospitals and private clinics. For emergencies, call the local emergency number (112) and seek care at major hospitals in Athens if needed. Pharmacies are widely available, and many doctors speak English in urban areas.

Discover Greece

Read more in our Greece 2025 Travel Guide.

Greece Travel Guide