Variko
Central Macedonia, Greece — Excellent water quality
Litohoro-Variko is a resort beach on the Pieria coast, with Mount Olympus rising behind it. The sandy shoreline has several hotels, rooms to rent, and camping sites. Water sports are available, and you can rent bikes or cars to explore the surrounding area. From the…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Variko
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Variko?
Litohoro-Variko is a resort beach on the Pieria coast, with Mount Olympus rising behind it. The sandy shoreline has several hotels, rooms to rent, and camping sites. Water sports are available, and you can rent bikes or cars to explore the surrounding area. From the national road, follow signs into Litohoro to reach the beach. More info: www.olympus.com
It sits alongside certified beaches along Central Macedonia, part of a broader network of certified beaches throughout Greece certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Variko faces E toward Ionian Sea. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in April, May, June. The beach's orientation determines when it catches direct sun — plan your visit around this to make the most of your time there.
Planning
When to Go — Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 5°C | 2°C | Low |
| Feb | 9°C | 6°C | Low |
| Mar | 10°C | 7°C | Low |
| Apr | 14°C | 11°C | Low |
| May | 19°C | 16°C | Low |
| Jun | 24°C | 21°C | Low |
| Jul | 26°C | 23°C | Med |
| Aug | 27°C | 24°C | High |
| Sep | 22°C | 19°C | Med |
| Oct | 17°C | 14°C | Low |
| Nov | 12°C | 9°C | Low |
| Dec | 8°C | 5°C | Low |
The best time to visit Variko is April, May, June. Air temperatures peak around 26.3°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 23.3°C in July.
How crowded does Variko get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Greece, Variko sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Variko open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (01-07 – 30-09). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Variko
Is Variko safe to swim?Variko is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated <span class="inline-stat">Excellent</span>. The beach does not have lifeguards stationed on the beach — swim with appropriate caution.
What is the water temperature at Variko?Peak water temperature at Variko reaches around <span class="inline-stat">23.3°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 5.4°C.
What is the beach like at Variko?Variko is a sandy beach on the Central Macedonia coast of Greece. It meets all Blue Flag criteria for environmental management, water quality, safety, and facilities.
Does Variko have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Variko meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services.
Variko sits on the Ionian Sea — explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Ionian.
Planning a trip to Greece? How Greece earns the most Blue Flags — our editorial guide to certified beaches across the country.
Transport
Getting to Variko
How do I get to Variko by car?Variko is approximately 12.51 km from Dion - Olympos Municipality. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to Variko?The nearest airport is Athens International Airport "El. Venizelos" (ATH), approximately 281.1 km away.
Can I get to Variko by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Dion - Olympos Municipality.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✗ |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✗ |
| Official Season | 01-07 – 30-09 |
| Beach Type | Sandy beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 40.1844°N, 22.5646°E |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Greece |
Frequently Asked Questions
Variko FAQ
Is Variko suitable for children?
Variko is a Blue Flag certified beach in Central Macedonia, Greece. The EU Excellent water quality rating means the water is safe and clean for all swimmers, including children. Blue Flag certification itself requires meeting strict environmental and safety standards that benefit all beach users.
Is Variko free to access?
Yes, access to Variko is free — there are no entry fees or charges to use the beach. Facilities including beach amenities are typically available during the official season at no charge. The beach is managed by local authorities under the Blue Flag programme.
When is the best time to visit Variko?
The best time to visit Variko is April, May, June. Water temperature peaks at around 23.3°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 26.3°C in summer. If you prefer quieter conditions, visiting in June or September gives you warm weather with fewer crowds than the July–August peak. The Blue Flag is displayed during the certified season, confirming the beach meets all water quality and safety standards.
What is the water quality at Variko?
Variko is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict annual water quality standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is currently rated Excellent. Blue Flag certification is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and requires independent water quality monitoring throughout the season. The results are publicly available from the European Environment Agency.
How do I get to Variko?
Variko is located in Central Macedonia, Greece. It is approximately 12.51 km from Dion - Olympos Municipality. The nearest airport is Athens International Airport "El. Venizelos" (ATH), 281.1 km away. Check local transport authority websites for current public transport schedules. A car is the most flexible option for reaching the beach, particularly outside peak season.
Explore More
More Blue Flag Beaches in Greece
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