A guide to some of the prettiest coastal towns in mainland Greece! Includes Nafplio, Kalamata, Parga, and many more.
Beach towns in mainland Greece
Did you know that there are dozens of pretty beach towns in mainland Greece? That’s right, Greece is so much more than just the islands!
In this guide, I’ll introduce you to ten coastal towns in mainland Greece, that provide a great blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. You can explore the towns themselves, enjoy the coastline and sea views, and also visit ancient sites nearby.
The best way to explore mainland Greece is by rental car, as you will have freedom to go wherever you go. If you are not so sure about driving in Greece, you can use the bus network, or even take an organized tour / private transfer.
And now, let’s look into some of the coastal towns you can visit in mainland Greece!
1. Nafplio
Located on the Argolic Gulf in the Peloponnese, Nafplio is one of Greece’s most beautiful coastal towns. Easily accessible on a day trip from Athens, it offers charming architecture, picturesque winding streets, and breathtaking sea views.
Nafplio is rich in history, and was Greece’s first capital after the Greek War of Independence in 1821. Its main landmarks are the imposing Palamidi Fortress, Akronafplia and the Bourtzi Castle, located on a small island just off the coast.
Nearby, you’ll find several lovely beaches such as Arvanitia and Karathona, which are perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. The picturesque harbor and the old town’s traditional restaurants and vibrant cafés make it an ideal place to unwind after a swim in the clear, blue waters.
How to get to Nafplio: Bus, rental car, organized day trip from Athens
Driving distance from Athens: 155 km / 96 miles (approx. 2 hours)
Ancient sites nearby: Ancient Mycenae, Ancient Epidaurus, Ancient Tiryns, Ancient Corinth, Acrocorinth, Nemea, Argos, Lerna
More information: Things to do in Nafplio
2. Kalamata
Nestled at the foot of the Taygetos mountains in the Peloponnese, you will find Kalamata, best known for its delicious olives and olive oil. It’s a charming, lively city that combines a long beach with rich history, culture, and laid-back nightlife.
Kalamata is home to an impressive medieval castle, and a few interesting museums. Do not miss the Archaeological museum and the superb Victoria Karelias Collection of Traditional Greek Costumes.
The town’s seafront offers a long stretch of sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The town itself is vibrant, with various shops, markets and pedestrianized areas. The lively sea-facing promenade is lined with cafes and bars, and comes alive after sunset.
Whether you’re relaxing on the beach or exploring the town’s history and culture, Kalamata offers a unique blend of both.
How to get to Kalamata: Bus, flight, rental car
Driving distance from Athens: 256 km / 159 miles (approx. 3 hours)
Ancient sites nearby: Ancient Messene, Methoni and Koroni Castles
More information: Things to do in Kalamata
3. Gythio
Situated on the southern coast of the Peloponnese, Gythio (also Gythion, or Gytheio) is a small, laid-back coastal town that exudes traditional Greek charm. It has a lovely atmosphere, with neoclassical buildings, a picturesque harbor, and plenty of tavernas serving fresh seafood.
Once a thriving port, Gythio offers a range of beaches, from the popular Mavrovouni Beach to the quieter, more secluded Valtaki Beach, famous for its shipwreck. Gythio also offers easy access to the nearby Mani Peninsula, where visitors can explore the rugged landscapes and discover hidden coves.
A short drive from Gythio, you will find the stunning Diros Caves, some of the most memorable caves in the whole of Greece, that you will explore on a boat!
How to get to Gythio: Bus, rental car
Driving distance from Athens: 290 km / 180 miles (approx. 3 hours)
Ancient sites nearby: The UNESCO castle town of Mystras
More information: Things to do in Gythio
4. Nafpaktos
Located on the northern shore of the Gulf of Corinth, Nafpaktos is a pretty beach town with a charming Venetian port. Its main attraction is the impressive Venetian castle, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and the sparkling waters of the gulf.
The charming old town is filled with narrow streets, neoclassical buildings, cozy cafes and restaurants, making it a perfect place to relax. The Clock of Nafpaktos is a lovely spot to enjoy the sunset from.
The local beach in Nafpaktos, Psani beach, is well-maintained and ideal for swimming, with a mix of pebbles and soft sand. Further east, you will find Chiliadou and Monastiraki.
It’s worth driving out to the Zelios Gi Botanical Gardens, an exceptionally well-kept park with several thousands of trees and plants. Your children will love meeting the deer! Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the mountainous area of Oreini Nafpaktia.
How to get to Nafpaktos: Bus, rental car
Driving distance from Athens: 230 km / 143 miles (approx. 2.5 hours)
More information: Things to do in Nafpaktos
5. Galaxidi
Galaxidi, a small seaside town located on the Gulf of Corinth, is a hidden gem on mainland Greece. Its quiet, picturesque setting, with narrow cobbled streets and colorful neoclassical houses, offers a peaceful escape from the more crowded tourist spots.
The nearby pebbly beaches and clear waters make it a perfect place for swimming and relaxing without the tourist crowds. Galaxidi is also known for its maritime history, with a naval museum and a long tradition of shipbuilding.
How to get to Galaxidi: Bus, rental car
Driving distance from Athens: 210km / 130 miles (approx. 3 hours)
Ancient sites nearby: Ancient Delphi
6. Chalkida
Chalkida, located on the island of Euboea (Evia) in the Aegean Sea, is best known for its unique tidal phenomenon, where the waters of the Euripus (Evripos) Strait change direction several times a day. This fascinating natural occurrence, along with the town’s charming waterfront, makes Chalkida an interesting and relaxing destination.
Chalkida has a rich history, with ancient ruins and charming streets to explore, as well as two archaeological museums.
Close to the town you’ll find many beaches, such as Avlaki Beach, which is popular with locals. And, if you have a car, you can explore the whole Evia island and discover unspoilt beaches and nature.
How to get to Chalkida: Bus, train, rental car
Driving distance from Athens: 80km / 50 miles (approx. 1-1.5 hours)
7. Preveza
Located in northwestern Greece, Preveza is a picturesque town known for its vibrant atmosphere. The town lies on the Ambracian Gulf and has several beautiful beaches, including the popular Monolithi Beach, which stretches for miles with soft sand and crystal-clear waters.
Preveza has a lively town center, with Venetian-era architecture, plenty of waterfront restaurants, and a bustling marina. And as for history enthusiasts, Preveza is close to the ancient site of Nicopolis, an archaeological treasure trove that dates back to Roman times.
How to get to Preveza: Bus, rental car
Driving distance from Athens: 360km / 224 miles (approx. 4 hours)
Ancient sites nearby: Nicopolis
8. Parga
Located on the Ionian coast, an hour north of Preveza, Parga is another picturesque coastal town in mainland Greece. With its colorful houses cascading down a hillside to the beach, Parga offers stunning views of the turquoise waters below.
Parga has a rich history, with a medieval castle overlooking the town, its charming harbor and the nearby islands. You’ll also find several beautiful beaches, including Valtos Beach and Lichnos Beach, both known for their crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings.
How to get to Parga: Bus, rental car
Driving distance from Athens: 420km / 260 miles (approx. 5 hours)
Ancient sites nearby: Castle of Parga, Castle of Anthoussa, Cassope
9. Volos
Volos is a vibrant coastal city in central Greece, mostly famous for its tsipouradika—local taverns serving tsipouro and meze, reflecting Greece’s warm hospitality and culinary heritage. The town is located on the Pagasetic Gulf, and is the gateway to Mount Pelion.
The Pelion peninsula provides an exciting combibation of picturesque mountain villages and beautiful wild beaches with pristine waters. Apart from Volos itself, popular villages to stay in the area include Makrinitsa, Portaria, Milies, Kala Nera and Afyssos.
Finally, Volos is one of the mainland ports from where you can take a ferry to the Sporades islands – Skiathos, Skopelos and Alonissos.
How to get to Volos: Bus, train, rental car
Driving distance from Athens: 330km / 205 miles (approx. 3.5-4 hours)
10. Kavala
Kavala, situated in northern Greece on the Aegean coast, is a charming town with a perfect mix of beach and history. The town’s harbor is surrounded by cobblestone streets, neoclassical buildings, and a remarkable Byzantine castle.
One of the town’s most famous landmarks, the Imaret, is a stunning Ottoman building that now serves as a luxury hotel. Kavala is also known for its beautiful beaches, including Batis Beach and Kalamitsa Beach, which offer clear waters and a relaxing atmosphere.
How to get to Kavala: Bus, flight, rental car
Driving distance from Athens: 650km / 404 miles (approx. 7 hours)
Ancient sites nearby: Ancient Philippi, Aqueduct of Kavala
Coastal towns in Greece
I’d love to know if you knew about any of these beach towns in mainland Greece – please let me know in the comments!
Hi! I’m Vanessa from Athens and I like sharing facts about my country! Follow me on my social media: