Athens is one of the best places to begin a yacht charter in Greece. It’s packed with history, full of great food, and perfectly located for cruising to nearby islands. With over 2,500 years of heritage, it’s home to landmarks like the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the world-class Acropolis Museum. But it’s also a lively modern city with rooftop bars, stylish shops, and top-notch marinas. From here, you can easily reach the Saronic Gulf and islands like Aegina, Poros, Hydra, and Spetses.

The city sits on the coast of the Saronic Gulf and is surrounded by mountains, which makes the sailing waters calm and comfortable. The main marinas, Alimos, Flisvos, and Zea, are close to the airport and downtown. So getting from the plane to your yacht is quick and easy. Athens also has one of Europe’s largest ports, Piraeus, which connects directly to many islands.

The UNESCO site Acropolis is the highlight, sitting high above the city. It's hard to miss, and it's worth climbing. Right below, the Acropolis Museum gives a deeper look into the history behind those ruins, with thousands of items that tell the story of Athens. You can also check out Hadrian’s Arch, the huge Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Panathenaic Stadium, which was made entirely out of marble and was used in the first modern Olympic Games. If you’re into wandering neighborhoods, head to Plaka. It’s old, full of narrow alleys and neoclassical houses, and has plenty of tavernas and little shops. A popular local highlight here is Cine Paris, an outdoor cinema that screens films under the stars with the Acropolis glowing in the background. It’s a unique Athens experience. In the heart of the city, the Gazette Art Complex adds a modern layer to the cultural scene with rotating exhibitions, live music, and events that reflect the city’s creative energy beyond its ancient roots.

Food is a big part of life in Athens. Whether it’s grilled sardines at a casual taverna or a fine dining spot by the sea, there’s something for everyone. Psyrri is a fun area to try local dishes in a laid-back setting. If you're after something fancier, head to Kolonaki or the waterfront areas. The nightlife here is also intense, with rooftop bars, live music, and clubs that keep going late into the night. It’s a city that doesn’t shut down early.

If you want a break from the city streets, the Athenian Riviera gives you a stretch of coastline that's more beach than city. Places like Astir Beach have clean sand and clear water, with beach clubs where you can stay all day. Just inland, Lake Vouliagmeni is a natural thermal spa surrounded by cliffs, known for its warm waters, underwater caves, and excellent diving. It's a great spot for a swim or a slow afternoon. The coastline also has quiet areas for anchoring your yacht, and Cape Sounion is one of the best places to end the day. You can anchor below the cliffs, take a short walk to see the Temple of Poseidon, and catch one of the best sunsets in the region.

Whether you want to explore ancient ruins, enjoy good food, or cruise from island to island, Athens is a strong place to start. Check out luxury Greece yacht charters and find your yacht in Athens.