Piraeus (tours to Athens), Greece cruises
Piraeus port guide
Pretty streets teeming with colourful shops. Bouzouki music seeping out of taverna windows. A wander around Piraeus will no doubt offer up a whole host of curiosities that beg a second look. The city has long been an integral part of Greece, serving Athens since the 5th century BC. Remnants of its significance in the Ancient Greek empire remain, and yet the buzz of modernity in the air is unmistakable.
Top landmarks and sights in Piraeus
Upon arrival into Piraeus, you may well be planning to make your way straight to Athens, where of course some of the world’s most recognisable landmarks await. Piraeus itself, however, is also home to its own fascinating historical relics.
The Long Walls of Piraeus
Once running from Piraeus to Athens, you’ll find what’s left of the ancient Long Walls in the city located close to Marina Zea, a superyacht marina located close to the main port. Originally built in the 5th century BC, the walls have since been destroyed by Spartans and Romans, being rebuilt once in between.
The Municipal Theatre
Opened in the late 19th century, the grand, neoclassical Municipal Theatre in Piraeus was designed by Ioannis Lazarimos who was inspired by Athens’ most famous architect at the time – Ernst Moritz Theodor Ziller.
Hellenic Naval Cadets Academy
Close to the entrance of the main port, the Hellenic Naval Academy was relocated to Piraeus in 1905, having previously been located on board two warships – the Loudovikos and Hellas. The building was designed by renowned architect Ernst Ziller, mentioned above.
Things to do in Piraeus
Piraeus is unique. It’s simultaneously an energetic yet laidback city to enjoy as a visitor. With marinas generously peppered with yachts, welcoming restaurants and bars, and markets with all manner of spices and souvenirs, you’ll find plenty to discover.
Walk along the seafront
A wonderful way to soak up the atmosphere of this pretty Greek city is to take a gentle stroll along the coast. Pass postcard-perfect sea views on one side and bustling bars, cafes, and shops on the other. There are plenty of benches along the way, so you’re never far from an opportunity for a break if you need one.
Climb the Kastella neighbourhood
For a wonderful view of the city and coast below, you could take on the steep hill that comprises the Kastella neighbourhood in Piraeus. The beautiful Church of the Prophet Elias sits proudly at the summit, which is well worth a peek inside to see its colourful frescos. There’s plenty worth photographing within the wider neighbourhood too, with 19th century mansions built in neoclassical style - many of which have been converted into bistros and bars.
Discover more in museums
You could explore the creative side of Piraeus and see what’s being displayed in the art museums located within old warehouse buildings on Polidefkou Street – interesting in itself as it was once part of an Egyptian market. You could also discover the history of the area in the Archaeological Museum, Maritime Museum, and Municipal Gallery.
Eating and drinking near Piraeus
One of the most memorable areas of Piraeus in which to dine is the Mikrolimano marina. Located along the seafront, on the other side of the bay where the main port is, Mikrolimano provides that dreamy Grecian scene you’ve been looking forward to. Yachts bobbing on the water. Smooth wooden decking underfoot. The aroma of freshly cooked seafood escaping from kitchens. Choose from many restaurants here and sample an array of fish dishes and other delicacies, perhaps paired with a punchy local ouzo.
Some authentic dishes to try in Piraeus include a firm favourite among residents and visitors – gyros. Usually filled with flavoursome pork or chicken, salad, tzatziki, and chips, this simple but delicious meal can be enjoyed on the go or in cafes and restaurants. A Greek salad is a lighter option that packs in a lot of flavour, and for something sweet you could try Galaktoboureko – a sweet and creamy custard-based filo pastry.
Shopping in Piraeus
Well-known for its markets, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to browse treasures and trinkets in Piraeus. Find a weekly flea market on Sundays, close to the metro on Alipedou and Omiridou Skilitsi Street, and a fresh produce market every Wednesday on Chatzikiriakou Avenue.
For malls and designer shops, you could go to Iroon Polytechniou, the main street which is also home to the Dimotiko Theatro metro station, and Sotiros Dios, where big fashion names and quaint boutiques offer a variety of wares to take home.
Getting around: Place transport
When you arrive into the port at Piraeus, you’ll be roughly a mile from the city centre. There are shuttle buses and taxis that can take you there if you’d prefer not to walk. It’s a 20-to-30-minute walk to the metro, which you can use for easy access to Athens and other nearby destinations. Piraeus itself is fairly walkable, as many of the main attractions are situated in close vicinity. Should time allow, the port also services a network of ferries which can take you to neighbouring Greek islands.
Piraeus port facilities
The port can accommodate up to 12 ships at one time, and shuttle buses will transport you to the main terminal buildings if you do dock further out. Within the terminal buildings you’ll find amenities like a waiting area, toilets, Wi-Fi, cafes, and shops.
Top tips for Piraeus
Currency
When spending in Piraeus, and throughout Greece, you’ll use the Euro. Most establishments will accept card payments, but it can be useful to carry some cash for smaller purchases such as at markets. You can withdraw cash at ATMs, which you’ll find located throughout the city centre, or purchase Euros on board your Cunard ship.
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory in Piraeus and throughout Greece, but it has become somewhat expected from tourists. In cafes and restaurants, the norm is to leave between 10 and 15% of your bill.
Weather
The hottest months in Piraeus are July and August, when you may experience highs of around 33°C and lows of about 25°C. The coolest time to go on the other hand, is at the start of the year. January and February see temperatures generally fluctuate between seven and 14°C. December sees the most rain.