🏠 Where to Stay in Piraeus
- ✨ 5-Star: Piraeus Theoxenia Hotel
- 🏨 4-Star: Mitsis N'U Piraeus Port
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Triton Hotel Piraeus
- 💸 Cheap: Scorpios Sea Side Hotel
- 🏢 Apartment: Gallery Suites & Residences Piraeus
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: The Alex Monte Kastella, Santikos Collection
- 🏩 For Couples: Queens Leriotis Hotel
💁 Best Guided Tours
- Hop-On Hop-Off Bus of Athens, Piraeus & Beaches from € 16 (⭐4.3/5)
- Athens and Piraeus Private Tour for Groups from € 350 (⭐4.8/5)
- The Best of Piraeus: A Self-Guided Walking Tour from € 15 (⭐4.7/5)
- Athens All Day Cruise: Saronic Gulf With Lunch from € 120 (⭐4.9/5)
Best Things to Do in Piraeus, Athens, Greece
1. Marina Zeas (Pasalimani)
Yacht Paradise. As I wandered along Akti Themistokleous Street, the sight of luxury yachts bobbing in the circular natural bay took my breath away. Marina Zeas was once the largest naval base of ancient Athens, where hundreds of triremes launched into the Saronic Gulf.
Cosmopolitan Vibes. Today, this is Piraeus’ most stylish waterfront area. I found myself drawn to the entrance where cafes, restaurants and cocktail bars line up opposite gleaming vessels. The contrast between traditional Greek tavernas and upscale international cuisine spots creates a fascinating mix.
Local Hotspot. Kanari Square, marked by the iconic Clock of Piraeus, buzzes with activity around sunset. It’s where locals gather for coffee and conversation while watching the changing colors reflect off the water.
Dining Options. The marina offers everything from casual street food to high-end seafood. I enjoyed a cocktail with yacht views for 8€ ($8.70), while a full seafood meal ranges from 25-60€ ($27-65) depending on your choice.
Practical Tip. For the best experience, I recommend visiting on weekday afternoons when the crowds are thinner. The walk around the entire bay takes about 30 minutes and offers different atmospheres as you progress from cosmopolitan entrance to more relaxed local areas.
⭐ Best Activities
- Hop-On Hop-Off Bus of Athens, Piraeus & Beaches – Explore Athens, Piraeus, and the coastal beaches at your own pace with this convenient hop-on hop-off bus service. Enjoy panoramic views from the open-top deck while learning about the city’s history through the audio guide available in 16 languages.
2. Archaeological Museum of Piraeus
Historical Treasure. Located near the Ancient Theatre of Zea, this museum houses an impressive collection that spans from the Mycenaean to Roman periods. I was amazed by how comprehensively it captures Piraeus’ evolution from military naval base to thriving commercial center.
Bronze Masterpieces. The highlight of my visit was undoubtedly the rare bronze statues discovered near the harbor in 1959. The Piraeus Apollo (a bronze kouros) and two exquisite Artemis statues showcase ancient Greek craftsmanship at its finest.
Maritime Heritage. The museum cleverly presents artifacts related to ancient warships, including a rare bronze sheath of a trireme’s ram. These objects provide fascinating insights into the port’s military significance.
Cultural Immersion. I particularly enjoyed the reconstruction of a typical Classical sanctuary dedicated to Cybele, complete with votive offerings and religious artifacts. The collection of Classical gravestones and funerary monuments is equally moving.
Visitor Information:
- Entrance fee: 4€ ($4.35)
- Opening hours: 9:00-17:00 (April-October), 8:30-15:30 (November-March)
- Closed: Tuesdays
- Location: 15-minute walk from Piraeus Railway Station or 10 minutes from Dimotiko Theatro metro station
3. Kastella and Mikrolimano
Island Vibes. Kastella is Piraeus’ most picturesque neighborhood, perched on a hill with houses climbing up like tiers of an amphitheater. Walking through its narrow streets, I felt transported to a Greek island despite being minutes from Athens.
Perfect Harbor. Mikrolimano harbor is an almost perfect oval with just a tiny opening on its east side. Once Athens’ main naval port dedicated to goddess Artemis (Mounichia), today it’s lined with upscale seafood restaurants where ancient ship sheds once stood.
Culinary Excellence. The restaurant scene here is exceptional. I discovered Lefteris Lazarou’s Michelin-starred ‘Varoulko’ alongside other gems like ‘Tony Bonanno’ (Italian cuisine), ‘Lolobrigita’ (modern gastrobar), and ‘Jimmy’s Fish’ with its retro Côte d’Azur vibe.
Sunset Magic. The unique Mikrolimano sunset is truly spectacular. I recommend grabbing a table at ‘Orizon’ with its amazing sea views and impressive wine list. A cocktail here as the sun goes down costs about 12€ ($13), while dinner ranges from 40-80€ ($43-87) per person.
Cultural Spots. Between meals, explore the Kastella Art Centre featuring Nikos A. Vernicos’ collection or the historic Hellenic Nautical Club. The entire area has a cosmopolitan yet authentic Greek atmosphere.
⭐ Best Activities
- Athens and Piraeus Private Tour for Groups – Discover the highlights of Athens and Piraeus on this comprehensive private tour designed for groups. Visit iconic landmarks including the Acropolis, Temple of Zeus, and the historic port of Piraeus with a knowledgeable guide who will share fascinating insights about Greek history and culture.
4. Piraiki Waterfront
Coastal Paradise. Piraiki feels like a coastal escape within the city. As I strolled along the palm-lined promenade, the scent of saltwater mingled with aromas of grilled seafood from waterfront tavernas.
Local Favorite. This neighborhood has a distinctly local vibe compared to touristy Mikrolimano. I noticed many Athenians enjoying leisurely walks along the scenic coastline, especially during evening hours when families come out for their volta (evening stroll).
Panoramic Views. The waterfront offers sweeping vistas of the Aegean Sea and Saronic Gulf. I found several perfect spots to sit and watch ferries and cruise ships entering and leaving the busy port.
Authentic Dining. Traditional tavernas here serve excellent seafood at more reasonable prices than Mikrolimano. My favorite meal was at a family-run place where I enjoyed fresh fish for about 25€ ($27) with a carafe of local wine.
Swimming Spots. Votsalakia and Freatida beaches are located along this coastline. While not sandy (expect pebbles), the water is surprisingly clean and clear for a city beach. Entrance is free, making it a perfect budget-friendly activity.
5. Hellenic Maritime Museum
Naval History. Founded in 1949 and housed in Marina Zeas since 1971, this is Greece’s largest maritime museum. I was fascinated by exhibits tracing Greek naval history from prehistoric times to modern day across 10 spacious rooms.
Impressive Collection. The museum houses thousands of artifacts including ship models, navigational instruments, maps, and naval weapons. The maritime picture gallery features works by important seascape painters of the 19th and 20th centuries like Volanakis and Hatzis.
Educational Value. I particularly enjoyed the exhibits showing the transition from sailing to steam navigation. The museum effectively illustrates Greece’s enduring relationship with the sea through interactive displays.
Research Center. The museum contains a unique maritime library with over 10,000 volumes, organized according to the Dewey system. It welcomes researchers and students throughout the year.
Visitor Information:
- Entrance fee: Only 1.50€ ($1.63) for full admission, 1€ ($1.09) reduced
- Hours: Daily 9:00-14:00, Monday/Sunday 9:00-13:30
- Location: Marina Zeas, Freattyda area
⭐ Best Activities
- The Best of Piraeus: A Self-Guided Walking Tour – Experience Piraeus at your own pace with this self-guided walking tour that takes you through the port city’s most significant landmarks. Follow the detailed audio guide to discover hidden gems, historical sites, and local favorites while enjoying complete flexibility with your schedule.
6. Municipal Theatre of Piraeus
Architectural Marvel. This striking neoclassical building immediately caught my eye. Built in the late 19th century, it stands as one of Piraeus’ most iconic landmarks with its intricate façade details and grand entrance.
Cultural Hub. Today, the theatre serves as the beating heart of Piraeus’ performing arts scene. I was impressed by the variety of performances hosted here, from classical plays to contemporary shows and musical events.
Interior Grandeur. The interior is just as impressive as the exterior, with ornate decorations, comfortable seating, and excellent acoustics. Even if you don’t catch a performance, the building itself is worth admiring.
Surrounding Area. The theatre is centrally located near Kotzias Square, surrounded by cafés and shops. I enjoyed a coffee at a nearby café for 3.50€ ($3.80) while people-watching in this bustling area.
Performance Tips. Check the schedule online before visiting, as attending a show here is a must for culture lovers. Ticket prices vary by performance but typically range from 10-40€ ($11-43).
7. Church of Saint Nicholas
Maritime Protector. As the patron saint of sailors, Saint Nicholas holds special significance in this port city. The current church, completed in 1902, features a distinctive blue dome visible from many parts of Piraeus.
Architectural Blend. I was struck by the church’s unique combination of neoclassical and Byzantine styles. The grand three-column portico crafted from solid marble with twelve ornate Corinthian capitals is particularly impressive.
Interior Beauty. Inside, I found beautiful mosaics and a central elliptical dome topped with a lantern. Two wooden staircases lead to the women’s quarters above the narthex, roofed with smaller domes.
Religious Significance. The church holds special ceremonies when the holy relics of Saint Nicholas are brought by sea from the Monastery of Saint Nicholas on Andros, highlighting the connection between the maritime community and their protector saint.
Visitor Etiquette. The church is open daily from 6:30 AM to 6 PM. Remember to dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) when visiting this active place of worship.
Free Things to Do in Piraeus
1. Piraeus Port Area
Maritime Bustle. The main port area offers fascinating insights into one of the Mediterranean’s busiest harbors. I spent hours watching massive cruise ships and ferries come and go while locals fished from the piers. As the largest passenger port in Europe, it handles over 20 million passengers annually.
Piraeus Sign. The giant “PIRAEUS” letters at Akti Kountouriotou 1 make for a perfect photo opportunity with the sea as a beautiful backdrop. The area also has benches where you can relax and enjoy the view. This spot is particularly popular at sunset when the letters are illuminated against the darkening sky.
Historical Elements. Throughout the port area, you’ll find remnants of ancient walls and fortifications. Information boards explain the historical significance of these structures dating back to classical Athens. The port has been functioning continuously since 482 BCE when Themistocles fortified Piraeus.
Street Performers. During summer evenings, the area around the port comes alive with musicians and artists. I enjoyed listening to traditional bouzouki music while watching the sunset over the harbor. The atmosphere becomes particularly vibrant on weekend evenings.
2. Churches and Religious Sites
Religious Heritage. Beyond Saint Nicholas, Piraeus has several beautiful churches worth visiting. Ieros Naos Agia Triada (Church of the Holy Trinity) on Ethnikis Antistaseos is particularly impressive with its ornate interior, fine bell tower with a clock, and lovely patterns of embellishment surrounding the windows.
Byzantine Influences. Saint Spiridon Church features a breathtaking hand-painted blue ceiling and vibrant artwork throughout. Saints are hand-painted throughout the church, filling the space with vibrant colors and intricate details. It’s a place where you want to pause and reflect, admiring the beauty and spirituality.
The Catholic Church of St. Paul. Dating from the 1840s, this church has a striking profile of four Corinthian columns supporting a pediment and crowned with a pair of bell towers. It’s pleasantly adorned in light hues, with a semi-dome at the entrance ornate in pale blue.
Religious Festivals. If you’re lucky enough to visit during a saint’s day celebration, you might witness processions and special services that provide insight into Greek Orthodox traditions. Saint Nicholas Day (December 6th) is particularly significant in this maritime community.
3. Sunset Viewing Spots
Kastella Hilltop. The highest point in Kastella neighborhood offers panoramic views across Piraeus, Athens, and the Saronic Gulf. This graphic, old neighborhood with its neoclassical houses mixes simplicity with an island vibe, creating one of the most beautiful sunset spots in the area.
Mikrolimano Harbor. This almost perfect oval harbor presents a series of sunset peaks in Piraeus. The sun setting behind the luxury yachts creates a postcard-perfect scene. The combination of boats, water, and changing sky colors makes this a photographer’s dream.
Piraiki Coastline. Several points along the coastal promenade offer perfect sunset viewing. I found a quiet spot on the rocks where I could watch the sun sink into the sea while fishing boats returned to harbor. The views extend all the way to the Saronic islands on clear days.
Bay of Zea (Pasalimani). As the second largest of Piraeus’ three ports, the Bay of Zea offers stunning sunset views over the Saronic Gulf. The marina with its luxury yachts creates a beautiful foreground for sunset photos. After sunset, the area comes alive with the lights from cafes and restaurants reflecting on the water.
4. Piraeus Open-Air Market (Sundays)
Local Experience. Every Sunday morning from 8am till 2pm, the area around Hippodamia Square transforms into a bustling market that stretches back parallel with the train line. This gritty alternative to Monastiraki’s famous swap meet has been operating for many decades.
Diverse Offerings. The stalls are a curious assortment: some are large and well-ordered with plastic coverings to shield purchasers from the sun, while others are just piles in the street. You’ll find everything from household items to clothing, with frying pans dangling from strings and spoons glinting in the sunshine.
Authentic Atmosphere. Unlike tourist-oriented markets, this is where local families shop for weekly supplies. The atmosphere is lively with vendors shouting “Ella! Ella!” (Come! Come!) and customers haggling for discounts. It’s a functional market with a distinctly local vibe.
Hidden Treasures. While most vendors sell new products, you might discover the occasional glimmer of a romantic flea market, like a small old man selling ancient coins and stamps. Even more enchanting are the surprises lurking down side streets, where some sellers appear to have emptied their entire homes onto the pavement.
Things to Do in Piraeus with Kids
1. Peace and Friendship Stadium Activities
Olympic Legacy. The Peace and Friendship Stadium (SEF) was built for the 1985 European Athletics Championships and later hosted basketball during the 2004 Olympics. Today, this impressive blue-domed structure offers year-round activities for families beyond just watching professional sports.
Family Sports Programs. The stadium runs affordable programs where children can try basketball, volleyball, and gymnastics under professional guidance. My nephew joined a weekend basketball clinic for just 8€ ($8.70) that lasted two hours and included coaching from former professional players.
Indoor Adventure Park. During winter months, a section of the stadium transforms into an adventure park with climbing walls, trampolines, and obstacle courses. Entry costs 12€ ($13) for children and 8€ ($8.70) for accompanying adults, with unlimited access to all activities for three hours.
Special Events Calendar. Beyond regular activities, the stadium hosts family-oriented events throughout the year. I attended a science fair with interactive exhibits that fascinated children of all ages. Check their website before visiting as some events require advance booking.
Practical Information. The stadium is easily accessible via bus routes 040, 217, and 904 from central Piraeus. It’s open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, though specific activity areas have varying schedules. The on-site cafeteria offers reasonably priced meals and snacks.
2. Maritime Museum Interactive Exhibits
Ship Navigation Simulator. The highlight for children is undoubtedly the navigation simulator where they can experience steering different types of vessels through various weather conditions. My friend’s 10-year-old daughter spent nearly an hour here, completely engrossed in navigating through stormy seas.
Underwater Archaeology. A fascinating section recreates underwater archaeological expeditions with interactive displays showing how ancient shipwrecks are discovered and preserved. Children can use touch screens to “excavate” virtual artifacts and learn about marine archaeology techniques.
Knot-Tying Station. At the practical skills area, museum staff teach children (and adults!) how to tie various nautical knots. Each participant receives a length of rope to practice with and can take home a card showing the knots they’ve mastered.
Maritime Treasure Hunt. For groups of children, the museum offers a structured treasure hunt through the exhibits. Participants receive a map and clues leading them to discover key artifacts while learning maritime history. This activity requires advance booking (at least 24 hours) and costs 3€ ($3.25) per child.
Educational Workshops. During school holidays, the museum runs special workshops where children can build simple model boats, create maritime-themed crafts, or learn about navigation using the stars. These typically last 90 minutes and cost 5€ ($5.40) including all materials.
3. Veakio Theatre Performances
Ancient Setting. Built into the hillside of Kastella in the style of ancient Greek theaters, Veakio offers a magical setting for performances. The stone seating accommodates 2,000 spectators and provides natural acoustics that fascinate children accustomed to modern sound systems.
Children’s Theater Festival. Each summer (June-September), the theatre hosts a dedicated children’s festival featuring puppet shows, adaptations of classic fairy tales, and performances based on Greek mythology. Shows typically begin at 8:30 PM when temperatures cool, lasting about 90 minutes.
Interactive Performances. Many children’s shows encourage audience participation. I watched delighted children join performers on stage during a musical adaptation of “The Odyssey,” helping Odysseus navigate past the Sirens and Cyclops.
Multilingual Options. Some performances are specifically designed for international visitors with minimal dialogue or English subtitles. The physical comedy and visual elements make these shows accessible to children regardless of language barriers.
Ticket Information. Children’s performances cost 8-12€ ($8.70-13) for adults and 5-8€ ($5.40-8.70) for children, depending on the production. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office which opens two hours before performances. Arrive early to secure seats with the best views.
4. Harbor Boat Tours
Educational Adventure. These 45-minute tours combine fun with learning as captains explain the port’s operations in child-friendly language. My young cousins were fascinated learning that Piraeus handles over 24,000 ship arrivals annually and can accommodate 50 cruise ships simultaneously.
Close-Up Ship Viewing. Children are thrilled by close encounters with massive vessels. Our tour boat circled a 300-meter cruise ship, allowing us to appreciate its enormous scale from water level – a perspective impossible to get from land.
Historical Context. Tours include stories about the port’s 2,500-year history, from ancient triremes to modern container ships. Guides point out locations of ancient naval battles and explain how shipping has evolved over centuries.
Wildlife Spotting. The harbor waters attract surprising wildlife. We spotted several species of seabirds, and the captain explained that dolphins occasionally visit the outer harbor areas. Children receive a simple wildlife spotting guide to check off sightings during the tour.
Practical Details. Tours depart hourly from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (April-October) from the main passenger terminal. Tickets cost 12€ ($13) for adults and 8€ ($8.70) for children aged 4-12, with under 4s traveling free. Each boat has covered and open-air seating options, making this activity suitable in various weather conditions.
Seasonal Activities in Piraeus
1. Summer Festivals (June-August)
Sea Days Festival. This 10-day celebration of maritime culture typically runs from late May through early June, featuring over 100 free events including exhibitions, concerts, workshops, and guided tours of the port. The festival pays tribute to Piraeus’ rich maritime traditions with activities for both children and adults.
Kivotos Festival. Early summer brings this celebration of traditional Greek music and dance, where you can enjoy performances featuring bouzouki and lyra accompanied by energetic folk dancing.
Athens-Epidaurus Festival. From late June through July, this prestigious cultural festival presents performances at various venues including Piraeus 260. The program includes contemporary dance performances like the Dresden Frankfurt Dance Company’s “À la carte” (early June) and “C la vie” by the Faso Danse Théâtre (mid-June).
Veakio Theatre Performances. Throughout summer, this open-air theatre hosts an impressive lineup of concerts and performances under the stars. The theatre sits 87 meters above sea level, offering spectacular views along with cultural entertainment.
Beach Activities. Summer brings organized activities to Votsalakia Beach, including volleyball tournaments and water sports. The beach becomes particularly lively on weekends.
2. Spring Cultural Events (April-May)
Spring Equinox Celebrations. Around March 21-22, Piraeus celebrates the balance of day and night with cultural explorations and maritime adventures. This period offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty experiences throughout the city.
Easter Celebrations. Greek Orthodox Easter (usually in April) features impressive processions and midnight services. The atmosphere is particularly moving at Saint Nicholas Church, with traditional customs and celebrations.
Munichia Festival. Held on the 16th day of the ancient month of Munichion (April-May), this traditional celebration honors the goddess Artemis. The festival includes a procession to her sanctuary, sacrifices, offerings of special pastries called amfifontes decorated with burning candles, and nautical games for young men commemorating the Battle of Salamis.
Flower Shows. Spring brings colorful flower exhibitions to Piraeus’ public spaces. The displays in Alexandra Park Square are particularly impressive and free to visit.
Art Exhibitions. The Piraeus Municipal Gallery hosts special spring exhibitions showcasing local artists. The gallery is housed in a restored former post office building and admission is free.
3. Autumn Food Celebrations (September-October)
Piraeus Taste Festival: Sea Food and More. Held in late September (typically September 22-24), this gastronomic festival is dedicated to sustainable cuisine inspired by the Zero Food Waste philosophy. Events take place at multiple locations including Mikrolimano, Alexandra Square, Pasalimani, Kanari Square, and Korai Square.
Piraeus Taste Fair. Running from late September to early October at Pasalimani, this exhibition features dozens of exhibitors presenting new trends in Greek gastronomy, premium products, and gourmet proposals from small producers.
Feast of the Sword. This traditional celebration of Piraeus fishermen takes place in late September at the Bay of Aphrodite, featuring flavors and aromas of the sea accompanied by island and folk music.
Feast of Raki. Held in late September at Korai Square, visitors can watch the traditional rakokazana (raki distillation), taste raki, and enjoy Cretan delicacies while listening to traditional music.
Wine Festivals. Early autumn brings celebrations of the grape harvest with local wine tastings held at various venues. Entry fees typically range from 5-10€ including several samples.
4. Winter Holiday Traditions (December)
Christmas Tree Lighting. Early December marks the official start of holiday celebrations with the lighting of the impressive Christmas tree outside the Municipal Theater and the illumination of the Piraeus Tower.
Village of the Elves. Throughout December until early January, Korai Square transforms into a fairytale village with interactive games, surprises, and activities for visitors of all ages.
Traditional Decorated Boat. Unlike mainland Greece’s focus on Christmas trees, Piraeus maintains the traditional decorated boat as its main Christmas symbol. The illuminated boat at the port area makes for beautiful evening photos.
Santa Night Run. This festive running event combines holiday spirit with physical activity, as participants dress in Santa costumes for a nighttime run through the decorated city.
Red Night – The Whole City is a Party. This special evening features music, lights, and festivities throughout the entire town, creating a vibrant holiday atmosphere.
New Year’s Eve Celebration. December 31st brings impressive fireworks over the harbor, with the best viewing spots along Piraiki coastline or from the heights of Kastella. The Grand Port is bathed in the light of nautical flares and fireworks to welcome the new year.
Day Trips from Piraeus
1. Saronic Islands (Aegina, Hydra, Poros)
Island Hopping Adventure. The One Day Cruise from Athens offers a fantastic opportunity to visit three Saronic islands in a single day. Departing from Piraeus at 8:15 AM, the cruise visits Poros, Hydra, and Aegina before returning to Athens at 7:15 PM. This whirlwind tour gives you a taste of Greek island life without committing to a longer stay.
Diverse Experiences. Each island offers a unique atmosphere:
- Poros: Known for its clock tower and lemon forest
- Hydra: Famous for car-free streets and donkey rides
- Aegina: Renowned for pistachios and the Temple of Aphaia
I was particularly charmed by Hydra’s picturesque port, lined with 18th-century mansions and bobbing yachts. The island’s ban on motorized vehicles creates a peaceful atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time.
All-Inclusive Package. Priced from 135€ per person, the cruise includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch on board, and entertainment during the journey. The onboard Greek dance show was a highlight, offering a lively introduction to traditional culture. While the pace can be quick, it’s an efficient way to sample multiple islands in limited time.
⭐ Best Activities
- Athens All Day Cruise: Saronic Gulf With Lunch – Sail the beautiful Saronic Gulf on this full-day cruise from Athens. Enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters, exploring picturesque islands, and savoring a delicious Greek lunch onboard while taking in breathtaking views of the coastline.
2. Athens City Center
Ancient Wonders. A visit to Athens is incomplete without seeing the Acropolis and Parthenon. The Acropolis Museum provides fascinating context to these ancient marvels. I spent hours marveling at the Parthenon’s architectural precision and the intricate details of the museum’s artifacts.
City Exploration. Stroll through the charming Plaka neighborhood, visit the bustling Monastiraki flea market, and enjoy panoramic city views from Lycabettus Hill. In Plaka, I discovered hidden courtyards and Byzantine churches tucked away on winding streets. The view from Lycabettus at sunset, with the Acropolis bathed in golden light, was truly unforgettable.
Convenient Transportation. The metro connects Piraeus to central Athens in about 20 minutes, making it an easy day trip. Trains run frequently, and a day pass (4.50€) allows unlimited travel on all public transport.
Cultural Immersion. Don’t miss these quintessential Athenian experiences:
- Coffee at a traditional kafeneio
- Souvlaki from a local street vendor
- People-watching in Syntagma Square
- Browsing rare books in Anagnostis bookstore
- Watching the changing of the guard at the Parliament building
⭐ Best Activities
- Port of Piraeus to Athens City Centre Transfer – Travel comfortably from Piraeus Port to Athens city center with this convenient private transfer service. Skip the hassle of public transportation and enjoy a stress-free journey with a professional driver who will meet you at the port and take you directly to your destination.
3. Agistri and Moni Islands
Tranquil Getaway. These lesser-known islands offer a more peaceful alternative to the popular Saronic islands. Agistri, with its population of just 1,000, feels like a secret paradise. Moni, being uninhabited, offers an even more secluded experience.
Natural Beauty. Agistri boasts beautiful beaches and pine forests, while uninhabited Moni is home to peacocks and deer. On Agistri, I hiked through fragrant pine woods to reach secluded coves with crystal-clear water. The sight of wild peacocks roaming freely on Moni was surreal and beautiful.
Water Activities. Both islands are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking in crystal-clear waters. I rented a kayak on Agistri (15€ for 2 hours) and paddled around the coastline, discovering hidden caves and tiny beaches accessible only from the sea.
Local Flavors. On Agistri, don’t miss trying:
- Fresh-caught octopus at a seaside taverna
- Locally-produced honey and olive oil
- Traditional Greek yogurt with island-grown fruits
- Ouzo or tsipouro at a family-run kafeneio
- Homemade baklava from the local bakery
⭐ Best Activities
- All-Day Cruise: Luxury Sailing Experience to Agistri, Moni & Aegina – Embark on a luxurious sailing adventure to the islands of Agistri, Moni, and Aegina on this all-day cruise from Athens. Swim in secluded bays, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and explore charming island villages while enjoying premium amenities and Greek hospitality onboard.
4. Saronic Gulf Cruise
Scenic Journey. A cruise along the Saronic Gulf offers stunning views of the coastline and nearby islands. The contrast between the deep blue sea and the rugged, sun-baked islands creates a quintessentially Greek seascape. I was mesmerized by the changing colors of the water, from turquoise in shallow bays to deep sapphire in open waters.
Sunset Experience. Evening cruises provide spectacular sunset views over the Aegean Sea. Watching the sun sink into the sea, painting the sky in vibrant oranges and pinks, was a truly magical experience. Many cruises time their return journey to coincide with sunset, offering unforgettable photo opportunities.
Dining Options. Many cruises include meals or stops at seaside tavernas, allowing you to sample fresh seafood and local specialties. On my trip, we anchored in a secluded bay where the crew prepared a traditional Greek barbecue on the beach. The combination of fresh grilled fish, Greek salad, and local wine, enjoyed with sand between my toes, was unforgettable.
Wildlife Spotting. Keep an eye out for:
- Dolphins playing in the wake of the boat
- Seagulls and shearwaters soaring overhead
- Flying fish skimming across the waves
- Colorful Mediterranean fish visible in clear waters
- Occasionally, monk seals near rocky shores
⭐ Best Activities
- Saronic Gulf Cruise – Early in the morning, one of our coordinators will pick us up from our hotel or nearest point and we will go to the meeting point in the port and from there, we will set sail towards the island of the Saronic Gulf.
5. Coastal Athens Riviera
Beach Day. The Athens Riviera stretches from Piraeus to Cape Sounion, offering numerous beaches like Vouliagmeni and Varkiza. Each beach has its own character – from the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Astir Beach to the more laid-back vibe of Kavouri. I particularly enjoyed Yabanaki Beach in Varkiza, with its clear waters and range of water sports activities.
Lake Vouliagmeni. This mineral-rich lake is said to have therapeutic properties and offers a unique swimming experience. The water maintains a constant temperature of 22-29°C year-round, making it perfect for a swim even in cooler months. I found the sensation of tiny fish nibbling at my feet both ticklish and oddly relaxing!
Temple of Poseidon. At Cape Sounion, the ancient Temple of Poseidon provides a dramatic setting for watching the sunset over the Aegean Sea. Perched on a cliff 60 meters above the sea, the temple’s remaining Doric columns stand in stark silhouette against the colorful sky. Arriving about an hour before sunset allows time to explore the site and find the perfect viewing spot.
Culinary Journey. The Riviera offers excellent dining options:
- Fresh seafood at traditional psarotavernes (fish taverns)
- High-end international cuisine at seaside restaurants
- Traditional Greek mezedes at local tavernas
- Artisanal ice cream and gelato shops along the coast
- Trendy beach bars serving creative cocktails
❓ FAQ
What are the top attractions near Piraeus port?
The top attractions near Piraeus port include the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus, Hellenic Maritime Museum, and the Georgios Averof museum ship, which is a preserved armored cruiser. Marina Zeas and Mikrolimano harbor are also among the most popular sites and attractions to visit when exploring Piraeus.
How to get from Athens to Piraeus cruise terminal?
Getting from Athens to Piraeus is easy via the electric railway (metro Line 1), which connects the heart of Athens directly to Piraeus in approximately 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from central Athens to the cruise ship terminal, which costs around 20-25€ depending on traffic.
What unique things to see in Piraeus city?
One of the top things to see in Piraeus city is the Piraeus Municipal Theater, an impressive neoclassical building that stands as the cultural center of the city. The Hellenic Maritime Museum was established in 1949 and offers fascinating exhibits on naval history, while Kastella Hill provides stunning views of the Saronic Gulf and the port of Athens.
Where was Mikrolimano in ancient Greece history?
Mikrolimano was Athens’ main naval port dedicated to goddess Artemis (Mounichia) in ancient times, featuring approximately 80 ship sheds where triremes were stored. The area played a significant role in the naval power of ancient Greece and today stands as a testament to the maritime history of Piraeus.
What fun things to do at Athens cruise port?
Fun things to do at Athens cruise port include taking a harbor boat tour, visiting the Naval Academy, and exploring the numerous bars and restaurants along the waterfront. You’ll also enjoy shopping at the local markets, sampling fresh seafood at traditional tavernas, and watching the constant activity of one of the Mediterranean’s busiest ports.
How to get from Piraeus to Athens attractions?
The electric railway (metro Line 1) provides direct service from Piraeus to Athens attractions, with stops near the Acropolis, National Archaeological Museum, and other key sites. Alternatively, the X80 express bus connects the cruise terminal directly to the city’s major tourist spots during the summer season, offering convenient transportation for day visitors.
What is the largest beach in Piraeus area?
Votsalakia Beach is the largest beach in Piraeus, offering a long stretch of coastline with pebbles and relatively clean waters despite its urban location. Freatida Beach nearby is smaller but equally popular with locals, and both beaches provide refreshing swimming opportunities within walking distance of the city’s main attractions.
Where to stroll for best Piraeus waterfront views?
For the best Piraeus waterfront views, stroll along the Piraiki coastal promenade which offers panoramic vistas of the Saronic Gulf and passing ships. Kastella Hill at the top of the neighborhood provides breathtaking views of the entire port, while the entrance to Marina Zeas offers a picturesque setting with luxury yachts and traditional fishing boats.
