Attica: Discover Antiquity, Coast and Nature

Attica combines major monuments of ancient Greek civilisation with wetlands, mountains and a varied coastline. The Acropolis of Athens, the sanctuary of Eleusis and the Temple of Sounion represent different chapters of history. At the same time, the Attic Riviera stretches from Piraeus to Cape Sounion. When choosing your holiday apartment, it is therefore worth first considering whether culture, nature or coastal experiences will shape your trip.

Ancient sites and museums

The monuments of the Acropolis form a major architectural and artistic complex from ancient Greece. They embody the ideals of the 5th century BC and are considered the pinnacle of ancient Greek architectural development. Those interested in architecture and art will find a different way to connect with the past here than in the region’s museums and sanctuaries.

The permanent exhibition at the Archaeological Museum of Marathon traces the history of Attica from prehistoric times to the Roman period. It also features finds from the Roman sanctuary of the Egyptian gods at Brexiza. In Vravrona, the Archaeological Museum is near the archaeological site; its finds date from the 3rd millennium BC to the 4th century AD. The permanent exhibition explores the sanctuary of Artemis, one of the most important sanctuaries in the region of Attica, as well as the history of Mesogaia and its surroundings.

In Elefsina, the sanctuary of Eleusis was dedicated to Demeter and Persephone. The rites held there were known as the Eleusinian Mysteries. At the end of the Sacred Way stands the Telesterion, where the religious ceremonies took place. Alongside Athens’ widely known monuments, these places give the region another distinct historical dimension.

Wetland and mountain landscape

The Schinias Wetland lies in northeastern Attica, on the Marathon plain. The protected area encompasses the entire Schinias National Park and a surrounding buffer zone. As the largest coastal wetland in Attica, Schinias is an important stopover for birds during their spring and autumn migrations. Several reptile species and the endemic fish Pelasgus marathonicus live along the banks of the canals and ponds. Those interested in landscapes and wildlife will find a marked contrast here with the ancient sites and the coast.

Mount Parnitha lies in northern Attica; the protected area covers 1,413 hectares. It has been a national park since 1961, and the park’s core encompasses the summit area. Parnitha is also the only area in southern Greece where red deer (Cervus elaphus) can survive. This offers a way to make nature a focus of your holiday, distinct from the coastal and cultural destinations.

Coast, wine and activities

The Attic Riviera stretches for 60 kilometres from Piraeus to Cape Sounion. Its coastline includes sandy and pebbly beaches, small coves, rocky inlets, beaches with caves and rocks for swimming. A major archaeological site lies at Cape Sounion, at the southern tip of Attica. The ruins of the later Temple of Poseidon now stand almost 60 metres above the sea; the temple was built by the Athenians in 444 BC. From there, visitors can watch the sunset, with views from the coast of neighbouring islands to the mountains of the Peloponnese.

Activities offer a range of options, too: water sports are among the outdoor activities available in Attica and on the islands. The hills and highlands of Attica have appealing routes; trekking and climbing are also mentioned for Attica and the Saronic Islands. In Mesogeia, wine routes offer visits to wineries, insights into wine production and tastings of different wines. When choosing a holiday apartment, these interests can help you decide on a suitable location—without having to combine culture, nature and the coast into a single excursion.

Getting there and other areas

Attica can be reached by ship, train, car or plane. The regions and experiences described here range from Mount Parnitha in the north and the Schinias Wetland in the northeast to the coast at Cape Sounion. So consider which experiences matter most for your trip before choosing a place as your base.

Other areas of Attica: Nea Makri, West Athens, East Attica, West Attica, Piraeus, Islands, South Athens, North Athens and Central Athens.

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