The Most Beautiful Beach Near Athens? Discover Agios Nikolaos in Artemida
There are places in Greece that locals would rather keep to themselves - quiet corners they’d prefer not to share with tourists. Agios Nikolaos in Artemida, just outside of Athens, is one of those places.
But then again... some places are too good to keep secret.
Because if you're dreaming of a real escape from city noise - with crystal-blue sea, peace, and an almost island-like atmosphere - this is exactly where you should go.
Peace, space, and a Greek beach straight off a postcard
Agios Nikolaos is a coastal district of Artemida, only about a 30-40 minute drive from central Athens. It's considered one of the nicer, more upscale areas in eastern Attica - quiet, clean, and well-kept. It offers the kind of calm that’s hard to find on Artemida’s main beach (Loutsa), and its landscapes are surprisingly unspoiled, especially for somewhere so close to a major urban area like Athens.
The beach? It’s a mix of small coves and wider sandy stretches, with clean water and natural shade from trees. There are no crowds, no noisy beach bars. Just space to relax, go for a walk, or spend the afternoon with a good book.
How to get there?
It’s easy by car, just take Leoforos Marathonos, turn toward Rafina, and follow signs to Artemida until you reach the municipal swimming pool (Kolimvitirio Rafinas). From there, turn left — and you’re in Agios Nikolaos.
Prefer something slower, more scenic? Take a walk. Start from the central beach in Artemida (easy to reach by public transport), and the stroll takes about 25–30 minutes. If you begin at the "Terma" bus stop, it’s quicker - around 15–20 minutes. The walk follows the coastline, with views of hidden coves, low-rise homes, and endless blue sea. 💙
And yes - it’s bike-friendly!
Surprisingly for Greece, much of the path is great for biking - especially after you pass the famous taverna Xypolitos (Ξυπόλυτος). And since we’re on the topic...
Xypolitos - the kind of taverna you’ll remember
This isn’t just another seaside taverna. Xypolitos is the real deal.
Fresh fish lands right on your plate, the ouzo is always cold, and the tables are literally set on the water’s edge. You’ll hear cicadas, smell the sea breeze, and for a moment, you’ll swear you’re on a Greek island - even though you’re still just 40 minutes from downtown Athens.
Nissakia: a surfer’s paradise
If surfing’s your thing or you’ve always wanted to try you’re in luck.
Agios Nikolaos is home to Nissakia, one of the top spots in Attica for kite and windsurfing. Strong winds, open space, rentals, surf schools, and a friendly, laid-back vibe make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
A pre-Instagram kind of charm
After the sea and surf, grab a coffee.
But skip the trendy cafés. In Agios Nikolaos, the best coffee is served in classic Greek style — in a small, no-frills kafeneio, where you’ll get a strong brew from a briki, a glass of cold water, and the soft murmur of neighbors chatting over a game of dominoes. No rush, no filters. Just pure, timeless Greek simplicity — with a view of sailboats floating by.
One last thing...
Agios Nikolaos is the kind of place locals wish they could keep just for themselves.
And honestly - who can blame them? It’s peaceful, beautiful, and feels deeply, authentically Greek.
But on the other hand... how could you not talk about a place you’re proud of?
So if you’re looking for a weekend escape, a quiet holiday spot, or just an afternoon walk with an unforgettable (and very blue) view - Agios Nikolaos is exactly where you want to be.
You don’t need to board a ferry to feel that island vibe.
Just hop in a car or on a bus - and head straight to the water. 💙
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