As the summer heat intensifies, the beaches of the country grow more bustling by the day. Concurrently, of course, the customary plans for the summer are underway; it is, after all, the season when most are putting the finishing touches on their holiday arrangements, scheduling time off or securing tickets to their chosen destinations.

Yet for those dwelling or on extended stay in the capital, there’s no need to wait for the holiday period to relish the sea. A mere 1.5 hours’ drive from Athens, you’ll find beaches perfect for the inaugural plunges of the summer season. They’re the retreats you can escape to either on weekends or some afternoons following the end of the working hours.

Options, for instance, such as the famed Schinias in Marathon, the not-so-well-known Agios Petros in Sounio, Agios Nikolaos of Anavyssos, and even destinations beyond Attica – like the tranquil Korfo of Corinth or Flambouro in Loutraki – offer something for everyone. They cater equally to young couples longing for an escape from the city and to families seeking moments of carefree bliss. Some of these, indeed, will surprise you, making you forget that you are near Athens and not on some distant island.

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