Rents Rise for Homes by the Sea in Athens

Winter or summer, a place by the beach has always a special appeal. With demand for homes shifting away from central Athens due to the pandemic, there is a clear preference for larger, more spacious houses in the capital’s less crowded suburbs.

This has boosted the average price of renting a house in the southern suburbs by 2.1 percent to 10.21 euros per sq/m in the third quarter of the year, data shows. This compares with 9 euros per sq/m in the city center and 9.47 euros per sq/m in the northern suburbs, where demand has been strongest recently.

A recent breakdown of figures provided by RE/MAX shows that rent prices along the southern Athens coast vary.

Progress on the construction of the Ellikino complex at the former international airport has boosted demand in the area as the development project is seen transforming the southern stretch, boosting its strong appeal among locals and foreigners. The beach area does not have access to the Athens subway which services the southern suburbs but further inland, along Vouliagmenis Avenue.

Most of the stretch, however, on the beach is well serviced with buses and the tram line. The majority of areas are also in close proximity to central Athens and landmarks, such as the Acropolis.

Glyfada remains a popular choice, costing 9.60 euros per sq/m, according to RE/MAX data. Next door in Voula, rents are cheaper at 7.80 euros per sq/m.

In Alimos, monthly rents for houses are at 7.9 euros per sq/m, versus 7.80 euros per sq/m in Elliniko and 7.30 euros per sq/m in Paleo Faliro.

Further out, the affluent area of Vari-Varkiza tops the rent price list at 9.50 euros per sq/m.

Near the Port

Down by the port of Piraeus, the country’s largest, prices are lower but fast-rising. Figures show that the price of renting a home in the suburbs of Piraeus rose 14.7 percent in 2021 to 6.88 euros per sq/m, from 6 euros previously. Along with improving infrastructure in the area, the construction of new office buildings has drawn large multi-national tenants, boosting housing needs.

This article was first published here. 

For more Real Estate News & Views on Greece and Europe’s South, head to The Greek Guru.

*Image courtesy of Sotheby’s

Stay Cool at Athens’ Limanakia Vouliagmenis 

Every time you visit Athens over summer, a very important part is knowing where to cool down when temperatures soar! One of our favourite spots to swim in the Greek capital is Limanakia Vouliagmenis, where you will come across tiny coves and bays boasting crystal clear waters. 

Just 30 minutes from Athens’ centre and set between the coastal suburbs of Varkiza and Vouliagmeni, you can dive off the rocks into what seems like your own private cove. Known as Limanakia, or ‘small ports’, these rocky beaches with striking waters are most popular among locals (and in the know) international visitors who are looking for a secluded and peaceful place to swim.

Insights Greece - Stay Cool at Athens' Limanakia Vouliagmenis 
Dive off the rocks

Location of Limanakia Vouliagmenis 

You will find the beach inlet of Limanakia along the coast road to Vouliagmeni; explore the small coves and deep blue waters reached by walking down rocky paths. After departing from the more well-known organised beaches and beach bars of the famous Athenian Riviera neighbourhood, you will follow the coastal highway towards Varkiza. Firstly, you will come across Lake Vouliagmeni and then other small beaches and tiny coves that are known as Limanakia.

Surrounded by white rocks, don’t expect to find many signs for the coves and bays but look out for people walking back up from a swim; and after parking your car follow the short paths crossing through Mediterranean scrub. Most are easy walks and once you reach the coves and discover the deep blue waters and the stunning views of the Saronic Gulf and nearby islands- you will realise it’s worth the effort.

All these spots are unorganised, so don’t expect to find any umbrellas, sunbeds or shops but the water is crystal clear and ideal for relaxation, diving and scuba-diving. 

Limanakia Beach Bar 

Insights Greece - Stay Cool at Athens' Limanakia Vouliagmenis 
Limanakia Beach Bar

By day, you can swim off the rocks and at night you can enjoy a drink as you sit back and take in the stunning views of Athens Riviera at this cool seaside wooden bar nestled in the largest of the bays. As you listen to the latest summer beats, you can order a drink and watch the sunset. There are no official opening hours but over summer the bar is pretty much open 24 hours. 

How to Get There

The area of Limanakia is about a 30-45 minute drive from Athens centre and it is located in between Vouliagmeni and Varkiza. After passing Vouliagmeni Lake, you will find Limanakia around 2 km away, driving along Posidonos Avenue. On the right-hand side, you will find a parking space where you can leave your car and start walking to the beach. If you don’t have a car, you can also catch a bus which regularly departs from Syntagma Square, in the city centre. 

Tips for Visiting Limanakia Vouliagmenis

-All beaches, bays and coves are only accessible on foot, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes to get there.  

-There are no organised areas, so make sure to take a hat and sunscreen and keep in mind there is not much shade until later in the afternoon.

-When diving, watch out for sea urchins- as it can very be painful if you step on one. 

-If you want a completely quiet swim avoid heading to Limanakia Beach Bar, as it is the most crowded area. Instead, head to the right and find a more quiet spot.