Summer arrived with packed beaches across the Athens area, but for many residents, the season’s first swim is becoming increasingly expensive.

As temperatures climbed and beachgoers headed to the coast, the cost of visiting organized beaches emerged once again as a major concern.

At one organized beach in the southern suburbs of Athens, a set consisting of two sunbeds and an umbrella costs €30 on weekdays. The same setup rises to €40 on weekends and public holidays. Entrance fees are charged separately, costing €10 on weekdays and €12 on weekends.

The rising costs have led many visitors to choose free public beaches instead, bringing their own umbrellas, chairs and equipment in an effort to reduce expenses.

The start of June also brought the first significant heat of the season. Beaches were crowded as residents sought relief from the high temperatures, which are expected to continue in the coming days.

According to meteorological forecasts, temperatures could reach 34°C to 35°C in parts of northern and central Greece. In the Athens metropolitan area, temperatures are expected to remain elevated, ranging between 30°C and 32°C over the next several days.