A collapsed cave filled with warm mineral water, surrounded by cliffs and pine trees, 25 km from central Athens. Lake Vouliagmeni is one of those places that locals have known about for centuries and tourists are only now discovering -- a natural spa where the water stays between 22 and 29 degrees year-round.
In this guide
Lake Vouliagmeni sits on the Athens Riviera, between the suburbs of Vouliagmeni and Varkiza. It's not a typical lake -- it was formed when the roof of a massive underground cave system collapsed, creating a sunken pool fed by constantly flowing thermal springs. The water is a mix of fresh and salt, rich in minerals, and famously home to tiny Garra Rufa fish that nibble at your skin -- a free (and slightly ticklish) natural fish spa.
The Greeks have used these waters for healing since antiquity. Today it operates as a managed bathing facility -- somewhere between a beach, a spa, and a natural wonder.
What to Expect
The lake is roughly 150 metres long and 60 metres wide, set in a natural bowl with limestone cliffs on one side and pine trees on the other. The water is clear, warm, and remarkably calm. It ranges from shallow wading areas to depths of 3 metres or more, with an underwater cave system extending deep into the cliffs (closed to recreational swimmers).
The water temperature stays between 22C in winter and 29C in summer, thanks to the geothermal springs. This means you can swim comfortably even in January.
The Garra Rufa fish are a signature experience. Small, harmless fish that cluster around your feet and legs, nibbling at dead skin. It feels odd at first -- a light tickling sensation -- but most people get used to it quickly. The fish are most active in the shallower, warmer areas.
The mineral content is high in hydrogen sulfide, among other minerals. The water has a slightly different feel from regular seawater -- softer on the skin. Local tradition attributes healing properties for skin conditions, joint pain, and muscle recovery. Whether the science backs all the claims is debatable, but the experience is genuinely relaxing.
Facilities
Lake Vouliagmeni is a well-managed facility, not a wild swimming spot:
- Sunbeds and umbrellas -- Included in the entry price. First-come, first-served. The best spots (shaded, close to the water) go early on summer weekends.
- Cafe and restaurant -- On-site, overlooking the lake. Decent food, reasonable prices. Good for lunch or a coffee.
- Changing rooms and showers -- Clean and well-maintained.
- Lockers -- Available for valuables.
- Wi-Fi -- Free.
- Accessibility -- Ramps provide access to the water for wheelchair users.
Prices and Opening Hours (2026)
| Weekday | Weekend | |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | 15 EUR | 18 EUR |
| Children (6-12) | 10 EUR | 12 EUR |
| Children under 6 | Free | Free |
| Senior (65+) | 10 EUR | 12 EUR |
Prices may vary slightly by season. Check the official website before visiting.
Opening hours: - Summer (June-September): 07:00-20:00 - Winter (October-May): 07:30-17:00
Open daily, year-round including holidays.
How to Get There
By Bus (easiest without a car)
Take Metro Line 2 (Red Line) to Elliniko station, then catch Bus 122 towards Vouliagmeni. The bus stops near the lake. Total journey from Syntagma: about 50-60 minutes. Bus ticket: 1.20 EUR.
By Car
Follow Poseidonos Avenue south along the coast through Glyfada and Voula. The lake is signposted on the main coastal road between Vouliagmeni and Varkiza. Free parking on site, though it fills up on summer weekends.
About 25 km from central Athens. Drive time: 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
By Taxi
20-25 EUR from central Athens. About 30 minutes with light traffic.
Practical Tips
- Go on a weekday if possible. Summer weekends are busy and sunbeds fill up fast. Weekday mornings are peaceful.
- Winter swimming is the hidden gem. Water at 22-24C when the air is cool makes for an unusual and memorable experience. You'll often have the lake largely to yourself on a winter weekday.
- The fish don't bite. They nibble. It's gentle and harmless. If you don't like it, move to deeper water where there are fewer fish.
- Don't apply sunscreen before swimming. It's asked that you shower before entering the lake to keep the water clean. The minerals in the water are actually good for your skin.
- Bring a book. This is a place to spend a few hours relaxing, not a quick stop. The combination of warm water, natural surroundings, and cafe facilities makes it easy to lose an afternoon.
- The underwater caves are off-limits for safety reasons. Several divers have been lost in the extensive cave system over the years. Stick to the open lake.
Combining With Other Stops
Lake Vouliagmeni's location on the Athens Riviera makes it easy to combine with:
- Cape Sounion -- 45 minutes further south. Visit the lake in the morning, drive to Sounion for a late afternoon Temple of Poseidon visit and sunset.
- Athens Riviera beaches -- Vouliagmeni Beach and Astir Beach are minutes away. Swim in the lake, then hit a proper beach.
- Riviera dining -- Vouliagmeni has excellent fish restaurants. The waterfront strip is walkable from the lake.
The lake-then-Sounion combo is one of the best half-day itineraries on the Riviera.
Who Is It For?
- Couples -- The setting is romantic, especially late afternoon when the light turns golden.
- Families -- Shallow areas, warm water, no waves. Safe and interesting for kids (the fish fascinate them).
- Anyone with muscle/joint aches -- The warm mineral water is genuinely soothing after days of walking Athens on cobblestones.
- Winter visitors -- If you're in Athens November-March and want to swim outdoors, this is where you do it.
- People who want something different -- It's a 30-minute bus ride from the Acropolis to swimming in a geothermal lake with fish nibbling your feet. That's a story worth telling.
Lake Vouliagmeni is 25 km from central Athens. Reachable by bus, car, or taxi in 30-50 minutes. Open year-round, water temperature 22-29C.