# Best Athens Beaches: Book Sunbeds, Beach Clubs & Hotels (Prices & Reservations Guide) > * Athens offers diverse beach experiences, from luxury clubs to natural escapes. > * Advanced reservations are crucial for premium spots like Vouliagmeni and Astir Beach in 2026. > * Top beaches include Vouliagmeni (premium), Astir Beach (luxury), Glyfada (lifestyle), Artemida (sandy/local), Lake Vouliagmeni (thermal SPA), and Schinias (nature). > * Prices for sunbeds and entry vary, ranging from €0 (Schinias) to €80 (Astir Beach). > * Consider your travel style and mobility when choosing where to stay and which beach to visit. ![Best Athens Beaches: Book Sunbeds, Beach Clubs & Hotels (Prices & Reservations Guide)](https://grandpl.com/post-images/2651496597384423142_o.jpg) [Athens](https://grandpl.com/grecja/artykuly/kategoria/podroze/podkategoria/ateny/) is one of the few European capitals where you can explore the Acropolis in the morning and relax at a premium beach club by the afternoon. In 2026, there is one golden rule for travelers: **the best waterfront spots require advanced reservations**. Here is our definitive ranking of locations worth booking to skip the lines and secure maximum comfort. Quick Guide: Where to Book Sunbeds or Entry? -------------------------------------------- | **Beach / Location** | **Type** | **Cost (Sunbed/Entry)** | **Key Highlight** | **Access** | |----------------------|-------------|-------------------------|-------------------------------|-----------------| | **Vouliagmeni** | Premium | €25--€50 | Blue Flag Status | Tram + Bus | | **Astir Beach** | VIP Luxury | €40--€80 | Elite 5★ Service | Car / Taxi | | **Glyfada** | Lifestyle | €15--€25 | Clubs, Shopping, Nightlife | Tram | | **Artemida** | Sandy/Local | €0--€15 | Airport Proximity, Wide Beach | Car / Bus | | **Lake Vouliagmeni** | Thermal SPA | approx. €15--€18 | Thermal Water, Wellness | Tram + Bus | | **Schinias** | Nature | €0 (Free) | Forest Beach, Unspoiled | Rental Car Only | TOP 6: Ranking Athens' Best Beaches and Beach Clubs --------------------------------------------------- ### 1. Vouliagmeni -- Best Premium Beach (Reservations Highly Recommended) If you're looking for uncompromising quality, Vouliagmeni is your top choice. This is the most prestigious stretch of the coast, featuring crystal-clear waters honored with the Blue Flag. * **What you're booking:** Premium sunbeds (€25--€50), waiter service delivered right to your spot, and access to a serene bay. * **Why it's worth it:** Exceptional standards and impeccable cleanliness. Front-row spots are often sold out online days in advance. * **Recommendation:** Perfect for those seeking the "best standard" in Athens. 👉 Book your Vouliagmeni [sunbeds](https://grandpl.com/en/greece/article/sunbed-reservations-in-greece-online-best-apps-to-book-your-front-row-spot/) early to guarantee a front-row view. ### 2. Astir Beach -- The Ultimate Luxury Beach Club (Entry + Sunbed Reservation Required) This isn't just a beach; it's a status symbol. Located on a private peninsula, Astir Beach (Asteras Vouliagmenis) offers a world-class experience. * **What you're buying:** Admission (€40--€80), VIP sunbeds, and access to luxury infrastructure adjacent to the Four Seasons Hotel. * **Why it's worth it:** A strictly limited number of guests ensures privacy even during peak season. It is the absolute pinnacle of luxury in the Attica region. ### 3. Glyfada -- Lifestyle \& Beach Clubs (Sunbed Reservations) Glyfada is the beating heart of Athenian social life. This is where the city seamlessly blends into a resort town, with high-end boutiques neighboring modern beach clubs. * **What you're buying:** Sunbeds at trendy beach clubs (€15--€25), often accompanied by live DJ sets. * **The Advantage:** The best option if you aren't planning to rent a car---you can reach it directly via tram from the city center. * **Recommendation:** Excellent value for the price. | Pro Tip | If you want to skip the rental car, book a hotel in Glyfada itself. You'll save on taxis and have the best beach clubs within a 10-minute walk. ### 4. Artemida -- Sandy Escape (Optional Sunbed Reservations) Located on the eastern coast, Artemida is the 2026 trending spot for those seeking space and a more authentic, less commercial vibe. * **Highlights:** The **widest sandy beach in the Athens area**, shallow waters (safe for families), and proximity to the airport (just 15 mins away). * **Why choose this:** It's the perfect home base for your first or last day in Greece. Prices at local tavernas are significantly lower than on the Riviera, and the sand is fine and golden. Related: https://myartemida.gr/en/article/best-sandy-beaches-near-athens-for-families-artemida-loutsa-guide.md ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | Pro Tip **[Artemida is the ultimate logistical hub](https://myartemida.gr/en/).** Book a modern apartment for your first 2 days or your final nights before departure. You'll save on accommodation compared to the center while gaining direct beach access and quick airport transfers. ### 5. Lake Vouliagmeni -- Natural Thermal SPA (Entry Ticket Booking) This unique thermal lake is tucked away in a dramatic cliffside setting. The mineral-rich water maintains a steady temperature (22--29°C), offering regenerative properties. * **What you're buying:** Entry for a specific time slot. * **Why it's worth it:** A wellness experience unlike anything else in Europe. Due to entry limits, online booking is essential. Related: https://grandpl.com/en/greece/article/lake-vouliagmeni-the-ultimate-guide-to-greeces-hidden-thermal-wonder.md ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ### 6. Schinias -- Pure Nature (No Reservations Needed) For those who prefer the sound of pine trees over luxury service, Schinias offers 5 km of natural, sandy coastline. * **Highlights:** The most beautiful natural beach in Attica, free admission, and a unique microclimate thanks to the pine forest meeting the water. * **Logistics:** **A rental car is required**, but the payoff is a complete escape from urban noise. Where Should You Stay? ---------------------- Your choice of home base should depend on your travel style: * **Vouliagmeni:** Choose luxury 4--5★ hotels if you want a full *resort experience* and access to top premium beaches. * **Glyfada:** Opt for boutique hotels if you want to mix beach time with vibrant nightlife, dining, and shopping. * **Artemida:** [Choose modern beachfront apartments](https://www.airbnb.co.uk/rooms/1479512892243799523?source_impression_id=p3_1778410392_P3sKQUqgZgFxtiQW). This is the most economical choice, offering high comfort with strategic airport access. Related: https://grandpl.com/en/greece/article/sunbed-reservations-in-greece-online-best-apps-to-book-your-front-row-spot.md ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2026 Reservation Strategy -- Key Tips ------------------------------------- 1. **The 48h Rule:** During peak season (June--September), book sunbeds in Vouliagmeni and Glyfada at least 2-3 days in advance. 2. **Avoid Weekend Improvisation:** On Saturdays and Sundays, popular beach clubs are usually "sold out" by the morning. Online booking is your only guarantee of entry. 3. **Mobility:** If your goal is nature (Schinias) or combining archaeology with swimming ([Cape Sounion](https://keepitgreece.com/article/where-to-buy-official-temple-of-poseidon-sounion-tickets-online/)), definitely rent a car. ### Summary: What to Choose? * **Best Premium Beach:** Vouliagmeni. * **Best Luxury Beach Club:** Astir Beach. * **Best Lifestyle + City Vibes:** Glyfada. * **Best Sandy Beach \& Logistical Hub:** Artemida. * **Best SPA:** Lake Vouliagmeni. Q\&A -- Beach Reservations in Athens 2026 ----------------------------------------- ### Is it necessary to reserve sunbeds in Athens? Yes --- in 2026, reservations for popular spots like Vouliagmeni, Glyfada, and Astir Beach are highly recommended. On weekends and during peak summer months, top locations sell out online well in advance. Booking ahead guarantees you a spot in the front rows and ensures premium service. ### How much does it cost to reserve a sunbed? Prices vary by location: * Vouliagmeni: €25--€50 * Glyfada: €15--€25 * Astir Beach: €40--€80 * Artemida: €0--€15 (often optional) * Lake Vouliagmeni: approx. €15--€18 (entry fee) Premium beaches on the Athenian Riviera offer the highest standards and full-service amenities. ### Which beach is best for a first-time booking? Vouliagmeni is the best choice for your first reservation as it combines: * Superior water quality (Blue Flag) * A calm, sheltered bay * Reliable beach club infrastructure * Easy online booking systems It's the most predictable and comfortable option for international tourists. ### Can I visit a beach without a reservation? Yes, but primarily at public beaches (like Schinias or parts of Artemida). At premium beaches and private clubs, you may be turned away without a booking, especially on weekends and throughout July and August. ### When is the best time to book? Ideally, 48--72 hours in advance. For high-demand spots like Astir Beach and Vouliagmeni during July and August, consider booking even earlier to secure "front line" spots nearest the water. ### Is it worth staying near the beach? Absolutely --- your hotel location impacts your overall convenience: * Vouliagmeni: Luxury stay with immediate access to top clubs. * Glyfada: Best for nightlife and easy public transit. * Artemida: Economical hub near the airport and sandy shores. ### What is the most premium beach in Athens? Astir Beach in Vouliagmeni offers the highest standard. It is the most exclusive beach club in Attica, featuring limited capacity, VIP service, and a very private atmosphere.