Are you trying to decide where to go for your next day trip near Athens, only to feel you’ll end up in the same old places again? The truth is that Attica offers far more options than you might think — from mountain villages to little‑known fishing settlements. One of these hidden spots lies just a breath away from Athens, in the area of Megara. Its name is Pachi, a quietly distinctive corner of Attica.
The little‑known Pachi of Megara in Attica
Pachi is located in Western Attica, just south of Megara, along the shores of the Saronic Gulf and directly across from Salamina. In the same spot stood the ancient Megarian port‑city of Nisaia. Just opposite lie two small islands — the Small and Large Pachi Islands.
Pachi is an authentic, picturesque fishing village, as most of its residents are still engaged in traditional fishing. After a short 30‑minute drive from the center of Athens, you can enjoy a beautifully relaxed day by the sea. Sunday is the ideal time to visit: all cafés and tavernas are open and lively. Just a few kilometers outside the center of Megara, you can sip a laid‑back coffee overlooking the sea and the fishing boats. You can also enjoy fresh fish straight from the Saronic Gulf.
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Don’t Forget
If you make it to Pachi, there’s one more thing you absolutely shouldn’t miss. Climb up the beautiful hill of Agios Georgios, where the 17th‑century chapel of the same name stands, and take in the breathtaking view that unfolds before you. It’s a sight you would never expect to find in Attica, especially so close to Athens. Your gaze will disappear into the endless blue of the Saronic Gulf. On the eastern side, you’ll spot four small islands once known to the ancients as the Methourides, as well as Salamina. To the northwest, you’ll watch the sun sink behind the Geraneia mountains and the old fortress of Paliokastro.
How to Get to Pachi
A Place That Proves Attica Has Endless Escapes
Pachi is living proof that Attica offers countless places to escape to, all year round. You can spend your Sunday in a park, go hiking on one of the region’s mountains — Penteli, Parnitha, or Hymettus — or, if you’re drawn to the sea, you’ll find just as many options. From Lavrio and Rafina to Megara and Pachi, there are still authentic corners with traditional cafés and tavernas serving genuine Greek meze. You’ll enjoy your Sunday stroll and return home filled with energy and sea breeze, ready for your next escape — whether it’s close by or a little farther away.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Pachi is located just 30 minutes away from the center of Athens by car, making it an ideal destination for a quick day trip. It's situated in Western Attica, south of Megara, along the shores of the Saronic Gulf.
In Pachi, you can enjoy a relaxed day by the sea, visit traditional fishing villages, dine at local cafés and tavernas serving fresh fish from the Saronic Gulf, and climb the hill of Agios Georgios to visit the 17th-century chapel. The village is perfect for experiencing authentic Greek coastal life.
Sunday is the ideal time to visit Pachi, as all cafés and tavernas are open and lively during this day. This makes it perfect for enjoying the village's atmosphere and local cuisine with full access to dining options.
From the 17th-century Agios Georgios chapel on the hill, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the Saronic Gulf, the four small Methourides islands, Salamina, and the Geraneia mountains with the old fortress of Paliokastro to the northwest. It's a stunning panoramic vista unexpected so close to Athens.
To reach Pachi by car from Athens, take the second exit for Megara when heading toward Corinth, then turn left toward Pachi. Once you arrive, you can park along the road as you enter the village or continue to the large municipal parking area on the left side of the road.
