Welcome to Athens (Piraeus)

Athens, the capital of Greece and the cradle of Western civilization, offers visitors a chance to walk through history while enjoying the vibrant energy of a modern city. Known for its ancient landmarks such as the Acropolis and the Parthenon, Athens is a city where ancient and contemporary cultures meet. Piraeus, its neighboring port city, serves as the gateway to Athens and the Greek Islands. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, shopping, or dining, Athens and Piraeus provide an unforgettable experience for cruise passengers with 6-10 hours to explore.

Cruise Docking Information

Cruise ships dock at the Port of Piraeus, which is one of the largest and busiest ports in the Mediterranean. Piraeus is located about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from the center of Athens, making it easy to reach the city’s main attractions by public transport, taxi, or guided tour. The port itself has several terminals, and shuttle buses are available to take passengers from the ship to the main port gate. Piraeus receives millions of cruise passengers annually, and it’s well-equipped to handle large crowds, especially during peak travel seasons.

Transportation Options

There are several transportation options available to get from Piraeus to the center of Athens and explore the surrounding areas:

• Metro: The Piraeus metro station is a 10-15 minute walk from the cruise port. The metro line 1 (green line) takes you directly to the heart of Athens (Monastiraki and Omonia stations) in about 20-25 minutes. Tickets cost around €1.20 per person.
• Taxis: Taxis are readily available at the port, and a ride to central Athens (e.g., Syntagma Square or the Acropolis) takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €20-€25 for a one-way trip.
• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: These buses stop at the cruise terminal and offer convenient transportation to key sites in Athens, including the Acropolis, Plaka, and the National Archaeological Museum. Day passes start at around €20 per person.
• Private Tours: Many cruise passengers opt for private guided tours that pick them up directly from the port and take them to major attractions, offering a personalized experience.

Nearby Towns and Cities

Athens is the main attraction for cruise passengers docking in Piraeus, but there are several nearby destinations worth visiting:

• Glyfada: 13 km (8 miles) away, about 20 minutes by car. A seaside suburb known for its upscale shopping, beaches, and nightlife, Glyfada is a great place to relax by the sea.
• Eleusis: 20 km (12.4 miles) away, about 30 minutes by car. An ancient city famous for its Eleusinian Mysteries, a set of religious rites held in honor of the goddess Demeter and Persephone.
• Lavrio: 65 km (40 miles) away, about 1 hour by car. This port town is known for its archaeological sites, including the ancient silver mines that were crucial to the Athenian economy in antiquity.

Local Foods

Greek cuisine is a must-try when visiting Athens and Piraeus, with fresh Mediterranean ingredients and flavors that have stood the test of time. Don’t miss these local specialties:

• Souvlaki: Grilled skewers of meat, typically served with pita bread, tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce.
• Moussaka: A baked dish made with layers of eggplant, ground meat, and béchamel sauce, often served as a main course.
• Greek Salad: A fresh salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, and feta cheese, drizzled with olive oil and oregano.
• Spanakopita: A savory pastry filled with spinach and feta cheese, wrapped in crispy filo dough.
• Bougatsa: A traditional Greek pastry filled with sweet custard or cheese, dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon.

Top 5 Attractions

Athens is a city full of ancient history and modern charm. Here are the top five must-see attractions during your visit:

• The Acropolis and Parthenon: The most iconic landmark in Athens, the Acropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with the Parthenon as its crown jewel. Entry costs around €20 per person.
• Plaka: The old neighborhood of Athens, known for its narrow streets, traditional tavernas, and charming shops, is a great place to explore on foot. Free to explore.
• The Acropolis Museum: This state-of-the-art museum displays artifacts from the Acropolis, including sculptures and relics from ancient Greece. Entry is around €10 per person.
• Temple of Olympian Zeus: Once the largest temple in ancient Greece, this monument is dedicated to Zeus and is located near the Acropolis. Entry costs around €6 per person.
• National Archaeological Museum: This museum houses one of the richest collections of ancient Greek artifacts in the world. Entry is around €12 per person.

Interesting Facts

Athens and Piraeus are filled with fascinating history and unique facts. Here are a few things you might not know about these famous cities:

• Athens is one of the world’s oldest cities, with recorded history dating back over 3,400 years, making it a cornerstone of Western civilization.
• Piraeus was the ancient port of Athens and played a crucial role in its rise as a naval power during the classical period, particularly during the Peloponnesian War.
• The Parthenon, which stands on the Acropolis, was originally a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, the patron of Athens.

Geographical Position and Surroundings

Athens is located in the Attica region of Greece, surrounded by mountains on three sides and opening to the Aegean Sea to the south. Piraeus, the city’s port, is situated along the Saronic Gulf, providing access to the Greek Islands and the Mediterranean. The region’s Mediterranean climate offers hot, dry summers and mild winters, making it an ideal destination for visitors throughout the year. Athens and Piraeus are well-connected to the Greek Islands, with ferries departing daily from the port of Piraeus to destinations like Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete.

Local Customs and Culture

Greek culture is renowned for its hospitality, known as "filoxenia," which translates to "love for strangers." Visitors to Athens and Piraeus are often greeted warmly by locals. It’s customary to say "Kalimera" (Good morning) or "Kalispera" (Good evening) when greeting people. In restaurants, tipping is appreciated but not required, with 10% being typical. Athens is a city that loves its coffee, and you’ll find plenty of cafes where locals gather to enjoy a leisurely cup of Greek coffee or a refreshing "freddo cappuccino." The cultural blend of ancient history with modern life makes Athens a city like no other.

Family-Friendly Activities

Athens and Piraeus offer plenty of activities for families with children of all ages:

• Children up to 6 years old: Take a stroll through the National Garden of Athens, where young children can enjoy the playgrounds and shaded paths.
• Children 7-12 years old: Visit the Acropolis Museum, where interactive exhibits and child-friendly displays will keep younger visitors engaged.
• Teenagers 13-18 years old: Explore the Acropolis and ancient ruins, where teenagers can learn about the history of Greece while enjoying stunning views of the city.

Google Maps

Piraeus Port

*Notice: Content and travel advice presented is created by a port moderator and/or AI, courtesy of ChatGPT. It is specifically designed for cruise passengers visiting this port of call. A port moderator could be a local individual, destination expert, port authority, or a tourism agency. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we recommend that you verify critical information like visas, health and safety, customs, and transportation with official sources before departure. Always familiarize yourself with safety aspects when visiting your destination. We have given some pointers under the information button in the main menu of this app.*