Fun Things To Do In Athens In August

Athens in the summer is no joke; the sun blazes, the pavements sizzle, and temperatures can climb into the 40s. But don’t let the heat put a stop to your plans. With a little creativity (and strategic timing), the city offers plenty of ways to stay cool and still soak in its magic. Whether you’re a local trying to survive August in the city or a visitor determined to make the most of your trip, here’s how to enjoy Athens even when the heat feels impossible.

1. Head To The Coast: A Walk To Kavouri


@oarismas📍Kavouri

When the city feels like an oven, the coast is your best friend. Kavouri, located just beyond Vouliagmeni, offers a breezy seaside escape that’s perfect for a late-afternoon walk or a refreshing dip. The pine-shaded path hugs the coastline, leading to small coves where you can cool off in turquoise waters.

 

If you’re up for a stroll, you can also walk for about 25 minutes from B Plaz Voula to Megalo Kavouri. The walk is beautiful — shaded, breezy, and perfect to enjoy with your dog or a friend.

How to get there: Drive or grab a taxi (about 30–40 minutes from the center). If you’re feeling adventurous, take the tram to Voula and then enjoy the scenic walk or hop on a short bus/taxi ride.

Insider tip: Don’t miss Lasithi Café for its gorgeous views and excellent coffee — the perfect stop to wrap up your seaside escape.

2. Explore Athens By Night


📍Thiseio View Cafe Bar. 

When the sun sets, Athens transforms. The air cools, the streets buzz, and the city comes alive. Take advantage of the milder temperatures and explore Athens after dark. From buzzing rooftop bars with sweeping Acropolis views (like those in Monastiraki or Thisio) to lively beach clubs along the Riviera, nighttime in Athens has its own magic. Whether you’re sipping cocktails under the stars or wandering through the lit-up Plaka streets, you’ll see a whole new side of the city.

3. Visit Air-Conditioned Museums & Cultural Centers


📍Numismatic Museum Cafe.

Need a break from the sun? Athens’ museums aren’t just cultural treasures but also wonderfully air-conditioned sanctuaries. Spend a few hours wandering the Benaki Museum, admiring masterpieces at the Goulandris Museum, or marveling at ancient wonders in the Acropolis Museum. If you’re in the mood for something a little different (and greener), head north to Kifisia and visit the Goulandris Natural History Museum, a refreshing escape surrounded by nature. Afterward, enjoy a meal at Natu Restaurant, set in a beautiful, breezy garden that feels miles away from the city heat. For a more cultural vibe, the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC) is perfect for chilling by the canal or catching a summer concert in the evening breeze.

And don’t overlook the hidden museum gardens right in the city: the Numismatic Museum has a charming, shaded courtyard café, the Byzantine & Christian Museum offers a peaceful garden café with lovely views, and the War Museum hides a quiet spot filled with blooming bougainvillea. All perfect for a cool drink and a pause from sightseeing.

4. Escape To The Hills At Sunset


@kostas.photos 📍Pnyx, Athens.

Hiking in midday heat? No thanks. But at sunset? Absolutely. Head to Lycabettus Hill for panoramic views of the glowing city and if you want to make it extra special, book a table at Orizontes, the hilltop restaurant with unbeatable sunset views and a refined Greek menu. Prefer something quieter? Take a stroll up Philopappou or the Pnyx, where history and nature blend beautifully. Golden hour here is magical, perfect for photos, a light picnic, or simply watching Athens light up as the day cools down.

5. Cool Off At A Beach Or Pool


Credit: www.sgl.gr

When in doubt, find water. Vouliagmeni, Anavyssos, and other Riviera beaches are close enough for a quick escape and perfect for a swim. If you’d prefer something more private, many city hotels offer day passes to their pools, letting you lounge in luxury with a cold drink in hand.

6. Browse Cool Cafés & Concept Stores


@littlebookstoresweek 📍Little Tree Books & Coffee.

Sometimes, the best way to beat the heat is to do absolutely nothing inside an air-conditioned haven. Explore stylish cafés in Kolonaki or Koukaki, where you can linger over coffee, pastries, or even brunch. For a cozier vibe, curl up with a book at Little Tree Books & Coffee, a charming spot near the Acropolis, or Komprai, a small, welcoming bookshop-café that’s perfect for reading or quiet conversation. (Just note that some of these smaller spots may close for part of August — but they’re worth a visit if you catch them open.)

If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, check out Athens’ unique concept stores or independent bookshops — perfect mini-escapes from the midday sun.

7. Take A Short Day Trip


📍Thinio tavern in Salamina.

When the city feels suffocating, sometimes a quick getaway is all you need. Sounio offers a breezy coastal drive and a stunning sunset by the Temple of Poseidon, while Aegina (just 40 minutes by ferry) gives you island vibes without the long journey. From Aegina, you can also hop over to Moni Island, a hidden gem where peacocks roam freely, a truly unique experience.

Even closer, Salamina is only about 15 minutes by ferry from Perama, making it one of the easiest escapes from Athens. While you’re there, head to Thinio, a seaside taverna serving some of the best seafood around, with views that stretch all the way to Aegina.

Head out early in the morning or later in the day to avoid the peak heat and crowds.