As summer temperatures climb in Athens, the city is offering residents and visitors a variety of cool retreats that go beyond the traditional trip to the sea, from chic rooftop pools to serene park lakes and therapeutic waters.
For those seeking a green haven within the city, the Alsos of Nea Filadelfeia provides a lush escape. Centered around a picturesque lake with fountains and a historic windmill, the park is a popular spot for shaded walks and relaxation.
While its iconic café is currently closed for renovation, visitors can still enjoy coffee or ice cream from nearby vendors under the trees.
In the heart of the city, the rooftop pool at the Divani Caravel hotel offers a more luxurious escape with stunning views of Lycabettus Hill and the Acropolis.
The open-air space allows guests to swim and sunbathe high above the urban bustle, with a bar and restaurant serving Mediterranean-Asian fusion cuisine, often accompanied by live jazz.
For a unique natural spa experience, Vouliagmeni Lake, nestled south of the city, offers mineral-rich, therapeutic waters that remain at a constant warm temperature year-round.
Surrounded by towering rock formations, the lake is an enchanting setting, particularly at night when atmospheric lighting transforms the landscape.
The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC) has also become a favorite summer spot. Its long canal features mesmerizing water jets that dance to music and light up with color in the evenings, while children often play in the fountains during the day.
Even the city’s suburbs offer an oasis. In the north, the Green Hill Pool Bar provides a tropical-themed setting with lush plants and a relaxed atmosphere, serving cocktails and casual food perfect for a day spent beating the heat.
By Zoe Papafotiou