Lake Vouliagmeni

The Basics

While the lake’s therapeutic benefits are among its main draws, it’s also popular for recreational activities. The water temperature is consistently between 71℉ and 84℉ (22℃ and 29℃), which makes for pleasant swimming, and at the bottom of the lake is a labyrinth of underwater caves with 14 tunnels. There are beach chairs and umbrellas near the lakeshore, and a nearby restaurant serves traditional Greek food. Visit the lake independently, or join a small-group walking tour of the area that includes beach time, a tour that combines a visit to the lake with Athens highlights, or a tour that visits the lake in conjunction with stops at Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Vouliagmeni Lake is a must-visit for families and those interested in wellness.

• Swimwear, towels, and sun protection are available for sale, but you’ll save a lot of money by bringing your own.

• Small fish in the lake known as garra rufa, or doctor fish, may nibble on your dead skin. Don't be alarmed; these are the same type of fish frequently used for fish pedicures.

• Note that currents in the lake can be strong at times, so be careful if swimming far from shore.

• There is an admission fee to visit the lake.

How to Get There

Vouliagmeni Lake is located on the so-called Athenian Riviera on the western coast of Attica, about 15 miles (24 kilometers) from Athens. It can be reached by bus or taxi from Athens, and many visit as part of full- and half-day tours from the city.

When to Get There

Because of its mix of cool and warm waters, the lake is considered a year-round destination, though it might be a little chilly for some people during the dead of winter. It's open throughout the year from 7am to 8pm.

Paranemonia Vouliagmeniensis

The lake is home to its very own breed of sea anemone,Paranemonia vouliagmeniensis (aka Greek anemone), which can't be found anywhere else on Earth. Unsurprisingly, populations of this creature are in decline because of the lake's use for spa treatments, and the anemones are considered critically endangered.

Ways to explore

There’s a significant charge to visit Lake Vouliagmeni, which gains you access to the stylish waterfront club. Premium seating options, such as cabanas, cost extra. Most travelers visit on a day or half-day trip from Athens that includes the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion. Longer tours include additional stops along the Athenian Riviera, perhaps for a meal or a visit to an olive farm. Note that many tours only offer a photo stop at the lake, and few include lake entry fees.

Accessibility

The main deck of Lake Vouliagmeni is accessible to travelers who use wheelchairs. There’s an access lift for entering the water and adapted restrooms, as well.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Swimwear, towel, reef-safe sunscreen

What to wear

Resortwear is the go-to here most times of year.

Not allowed

To protect the natural environment, don’t apply sunscreen immediately before swimming and don’t use shampoo, bodywash, or similar products in the outdoor showers.

Amenities

Restaurant, spa, shop, Wi-Fi

Address

Lake Vouliagmeni is located on the Athenian Riviera, on Attica’s west coast, about 12.5 miles (20 kilometers) south of the Acropolis.

Driving

Driving in Athens is extremely challenging, but the lake does offer free parking. It’s just off the EO91 coast road, which links central Athens to coastal Athens, Piraeus, the Athenian Riviera, and Cape Sounion.

Public transportation

Lake Vouliagmeni is a stop on the Riviera hop-on hop-off bus line and on the KTEL Athens-Sounion bus route, which runs several times daily. Alternatively, catch the metro to Argyroupoli (Line 2) and transfer to bus line 122.

Best times to visit

Arrive early for a spot on the main deck in high season. The lake typically operates from early morning to dusk, with shorter hours in winter.

Best days to visit

Plan your visit for midweek—and book ahead. Lake Vouliagmeni gets especially crowded during weekends and peak travel seasons, such as July and August.

Best months to visit

Visit in late May, early June, or September to experience swimming-friendly temperatures with fewer crowds than peak season.