Things To Do
in Néa Mákri
Néa Mákri is a coastal town on the northeast Attica coast just east of Athens. It offers a relaxed, family-friendly vibe with sandy beaches, pine-fringed shorelines, and inviting seafront tavernas. The area serves as a convenient gateway to Rafina Port and easy day trips to nearby archaeological sites such as Marathon and the Schinias region.
Visitors come for fresh seafood, scenic walks along the promenade, and quick ferry access to the islands from Rafina.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your trip with a visit to the ancient ruins of Marathon, just a short drive from Néa Mákri. Explore the historic battlefield and the Tomb of the Warriors while taking in the breathtaking surroundings. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local cafe nearby to fuel your adventures.
Spend your afternoon at the nearby Marathon Lake, where you can take a peaceful walk or rent a bike to explore the scenic views. Treat yourself to a traditional Greek lunch at a taverna with views of the lake, sampling local delicacies. In the later hours, visit the Marathon Museum to delve deeper into the area's rich history.
As the sun sets, return to Néa Mákri and stroll along the waterfront promenade. Indulge in a delicious seafood dinner at one of the charming seaside restaurants, enjoying the fresh catch of the day. Cap off your evening with a relaxing drink at a nearby bar while listening to the waves.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, then head to the beautiful nearby beaches, like Zoumberi Beach. Spend time sunbathing or swimming in the Aegean Sea before exploring the stunning coastal landscapes. Capture the breathtaking views and moments before heading to the next adventure.
After a morning of relaxation, visit the nearby coastal village of Rafina for lunch. Choose a quaint restaurant along the harbor to enjoy authentic Greek cuisine while watching the boats come and go. Post-lunch, take a stroll around Rafina’s charming streets, indulging in some local delicacies from shops.
Return to Néa Mákri for an evening at the local beach bars. Enjoy cocktails while watching the sunset against the backdrop of the Aegean, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Finish your night with some live music or local entertainment according to the schedule.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-4 |
| 🥗Lunch for two | $25-35 |
| 🚆One-way local transit fare | $1.5-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed coastal atmosphere with easy access to Athens
- Beautiful beaches and pine forest near Schinias
- Good seafood and casual Greek tavernas
- Strong day-trip options to Marathon and Rafina ferries
- Occasional summer crowds along the coast
- Limited nightlife compared to central Athens
- Some beaches can have pebbly sections
- Public transport options reduce frequency outside peak season
- "Γεια σου" - Hello (informal)
- "Kalimera" - Good morning
- "Παρακαλώ" - Please
- "Ευχαριστώ" - Thank you
- "Μιλάτε αγγλικά;" - Do you speak English?
- "Που είναι η τουαλέτα;" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Néa Mákri
Visit one of these nice places.
Long, palm-lined stretch with calm blue water, ideal for golden-hour photography and people-watching fishermen.
Iconic pine forest backing a wide sandy beach; dramatic light through the trees plus clear water for landscape and nature shots.
Colorful boats, daily life at the harbour, and sunset views over the water—great for maritime photography.
Quaint lanes, small boats, and traditional wares provide charming, timeless subject matter.
Food in Néa Mákri
Néa Mákri Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender octopus charred and drizzled with lemon, olive oil, and oregano in seaside tavernas.
Must-Try!
Flaky sardines grilled over charcoal, often served with lemon wedges and crusty bread.
Stuffed peppers or tomatoes with rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat; a staple Greek dish available in many tavernas.
Layered eggplant, potato, and ground meat bake topped with béchamel sauce.
Sampler of various small seafood dishes, ideal for sharing with friends or family.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market region where fresh catches are bought daily, plus nearby stalls with produce and prepared seafood snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A courteous hello ('Kali mera' for good morning or 'Yia sou' informal) and 'Efharistó' for thank you are appreciated. Speak respectfully in public spaces; be mindful in churches and sacred sites.
Dress modestly when entering churches; keep noise level reasonable in residential and sacred areas; avoid blocking sidewalks with tables or gear in narrow streets.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; bargaining is not common in fixed-price shops and markets.
Safety
Tipping in Néa Mákri
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is customary if service is good; smaller tips (rounding up) are common in casual places. Taxis often expect rounding up to the nearest euro or a couple of euros depending on distance.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; carry some cash for small vendors and markets that may not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with plenty of sunshine and busy beaches; stay hydrated, use sun protection, and enjoy evening sea breezes. This is the peak time for coastal activities, sunset strolls, and seafood dinners along the promenade.
Mild temperatures with blooming gardens and comfortable hiking conditions; ideal for outdoor exploration and photo walks without the crowds.
Still warm sea water and pleasant daytime highs; good for day trips to nearby archaeological sites and longer coastal walks.
Cooler, occasional rain, and quieter streets; some seasonal services may operate on reduced hours, but the coastal scenery remains tranquil and photogenic.
Néa Mákri at Night
Hiking in Néa Mákri
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails behind the Schinias Beach with a mix of shaded paths and coastal viewpoints.
Cultural-hiking route linking ancient sites with coastal landscapes a short drive from Néa Mákri.
Airports
How to reach Néa Mákri by plane.
Approximately 25-40 km from Néa Mákri; accessible by highway and public transport connections via Rafina and central Athens.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longtime residents and children of the area form the core community.
Seasonal visitors from Athens and beyond who come for beaches and seafood.
A small but steady mix of residents who work in the wider Athens area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common on the beaches and in marina areas during summer months.
Popular local activities and informal games on the sand.
Rafina and nearby coastal areas offer sailing opportunities and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Néa Mákri.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Greek vegetarian options are plentiful: ask for vegetable dishes, salads, grilled halloumi, and stuffed peppers or tomatoes; many tavernas can tailor dishes to omit meat or seafood.