While the sun is still shining, one thing takes priority: keeping cool.
In the concrete-filled city, this may often feel impossible. Is there anything worth doing other than to sit indoors with the blinds closed and the AC blasting?
Rooftop pools, beach parties and water parks are the answer to enjoying the warm season beyond the confines of the couch.
TO BHMA International Edition has compiled a list of water-adjacent activities and summer events in areas both closer to the city center, and a short drive away.
Water slides and whimsy
When was the last time you visited a water park? Chances are, your parents took you when you were younger. The nice thing about adulthood is that we can exercise our free will, and we rarely do so for purely whimsical activities.
Splash Water Park Loutraki
Just 40 minutes away from the city awaits a technicolor summer escape, with water slides and pools for people of all ages.
With a special offer running on their day passes, you can stay from opening ‘til closing and enjoy yourself for less than 20 euros. Ticket price includes sun lounger and umbrella, use of all pools and water slides, as well as free parking within the premises.
Aquapolis Attica Park
Athens’ biggest water park features an impressive selection of water slides. Probably the most impressive of all is the King Cobra, shaped like the namesake reptile with fangs and all.
In collaboration with the Attica Zoo, which is located right across the water park, Aquapolis offers a ticket combo to visit both parks on the same day! Our collective weekend plans can all afford to get a little more inventive while the weather (and our wallets) allows it.
Sitting poolside
Perhaps all the talk of pufferfish taking over some of the most beautiful Greek shoresides has you a little apprehensive. Or you’re simply not a big fan of salty skin and unpredictable beach terrain.
A few stand-out pool options in the heart of Athens may be just what you’re looking for:
Mavili Beach
Do not be fooled by the name, there is no oceanic waters to be found here. Hidden on the rooftop of Airotel Alexandros Hotel, this luxurious pool experience looks like something straight out of a Cycladic 5-star resort. The décor, however, is only there to compliment the real star of the show: the beach-mimicking, fresh water swimming pool complete with real sand.
Reserving a lounge chair is possible on 8-hour time slots and comes with a complimentary drink, bottled water and a beach towel. Kiosks and cabanas are also available.
Ktima Aristi
On the more budget-friendly side, this event space in Chalandri has a pool experience nestled within its luscious garden. What’s best, you can combine your swimming pool plans with one of their outdoor workshops to add some fun to your day!
The “Splish Splash Moments @KtimaAristi” offer is geared towards families with kids of all ages. Included with each ticket (which covers a 3-hour time slot) is one beverage of choice out of a selection of coffee and juices, unlimited use of the kids’ park, and pool toys for the little ones to play with.
Pool Your Cinema
Looking for a date night idea that includes enjoying a glass of wine poolside? Hotel Grande Bretagne in Athens is doing a special series of screenings by its iconic pool, overlooking Lycabettus Hill. The snack menu, prepared by the hotel’s executive chef Asterios Koustoudis, is included with each ticket purchase.
The open-air screening experience will be taking place until September of this year.
In a party mood
Summer vacation in Greece could not possibly be missing a beach bar visit… or many more. When we Athenians are not on rooftop bars in the warm evenings, we’re moonlighting it on the coast with flashing lights and cocktails.
To fuel summer memories you can look back on forever:
Privilege Beach House
Located on the Astir Beach coastline, there is no shortage of DJ nights in the sunset or comfortable, cushioned sun loungers. On the pricier side of outings, the atmosphere is modern resort chic with cocktails and refined gastronomy to boot.
Continuing their collaboration with Colors OFC and with other creatives, Privilege’s summer parties dazzle with fireworks and fire eaters.
Bolivar Beach Club
No matter the day, the party never ends on the wooden docks of Costa Del Sol in Alimos. If you’re looking to spend the entire day on the beach, Bolivar has it all. Sun loungers, food, drinks and DJ sets with guest artists almost every day through the summer.
Tickets for entry and DJ sets are booked separately.
Island Athens Riviera
The emblematic club in Varkiza is among the most well-known venues for a night out. Every summer tickets to the featured DJ sets and reservations are booked up fast. Overlooking the ocean, Island has been the go-to party spot for many global celebrities and elites including Travis Scott, Sharon Stone and DJ duo Swedish House Mafia.
