September’s arrival appears, for the time being, to have forsaken the autumn weather. The summer holidays may be over for most of us but it still seems too early to let go of the swimming, fun games in the water, and relaxation under the sun.
Fortunately, Athens remains a lively city throughout the year, regardless of the season, its options including laid-back spots that remind of the summer slowdown. We have selected nine swimming pools offering summer-like relaxation in the city.
Margi Hotel in Vouliagmeni
The Margi Hotel features an impressive outdoor space with swimming pool, comfortable sunbeds, as well as cabanas for more demanding customers. Once you’ve had a swim, try one of the signature cocktails at the bar or the food curated by executive chef Panagiotis Giakalis, prepared with organic ingredients from the hotel’s own farm.
Pool hours: 10:00-19:00; Admission: €30 per person on weekdays, €45 on weekends and public holidays, half price for children (2-12 years old); Cabanas (reservations needed), €100 for two on weekdays, €150 for two on weekends.
Fresh in the heart of Athens
This swimming pool’s location could not be more central. Situated close to Omonia Square at a short distance from the Plaka and Monastiraki districts, on the 9th floor of the Fresh Hotel, this swimming pool offers a terrific view of the city. You may enjoy a swim, food and drink here, feeling as if the Acropolis is just a touch away.
Pool hours: 10:00-19:00; Admission: €25 per person on weekdays, €20 after 17:00, €30 on weekends.
Marina Zea swimming pool
The Marina Zea swimming pool in Piraeus is part of the all-day restaurant bar complex that never fails to excite. Visitors may combine their swims at the facility’s centrally positioned large swimming pool with coffee in the morning hours, drinks in the afternoon, and meals in the evening. The view of the marina while swimming is definitely one of the bonuses of this place.
Marina Zea, Piraeus, tel. +30 2104511324, https://www.facebook.com/pisinamarinazeas/
Mavili Beach at Mavili Square
The swimming pool at the Alexandros Hotel by Mavili Square is an Athenian oasis. Mavili Beach combines urban architecture with Cycladic elements, making visitors feel as if they are back on an island. Enjoy the cocktails. The rich food menu will impress.
Pool hours: 10:30-19:00; Admission: €30 per person on weekdays, €40 on weekends, free admission for children up to 3 years old, half price for children aged 4 to 13.
St. George Lycabettus Boutique Hotel
Situated at Lycabettus Hill, St. George Lycabettus Boutique Hotel, offers plenty, including the feeling of swimming in a pine forest area. It also offers a view of the entire city, all the way down to its coastline and sea.
Pool hours: 10:00-20:00; Admission: €25 per person and €43 for two on weekdays. €33 per person and €53 for two on weekends, half price for children up to 12 years old.
Divani Caravel’s breathtaking view
Another swimming spot with a breathtaking view, the swimming pool on the Divani Caravel rooftop is difficult to part from. Stay on until late in the day to enjoy the sunset view from this marvellous elevated position.
Pool hours: 10:00-20:00; Admission: €30 per person on weekdays, €40 per person on weekends and public holidays, free entrance for youngsters up to 2 years old.
Semiramis of colour
The Semiramis hotel in Kifissia, northern Athens features a pool area with colour – green, yellow and pink dominate – which is not surprising, as it was created by award-winning designer Karim Rashid with entrepreneur Dakis Joannou, also a prominent art collector.
Pool hours: 11:00-19:00; Admission: €30 per person on weekdays, €40 per person on weekends, free entrance for children up to 3 years old, half price for children over 3 years old. Admission fee includes towel and coffee or soft drink.
Balux Seaside at Asteras Glyfada
This is another place that offers all, from swimming at its pool and, why not, the adjacent beach, to food and drinks, all creating a true summer feeling. The standards achieved by the cocktails and international-recipe dishes at Balux satisfy even the most demanding of customers.
58 Poseidonos Ave, Asteras Glyfada, tel: 30 8941620, http://www.asterascomplex.com/el/balux-cafe-pisina-eisagwgh/
Acqua e Sole at Alimos
This lively and lush seaside complex in southern Athens offers two swimming pools, both big. They are constantly patrolled by lifeguards, while the space is ideal for children as it offers numerous games and sporting activities.
Pool hours: 9:00-sunset; Admission: €7 for pool users (forbidden for children under the age of 3).
