Piraeus (Athens), Greece

Piraeus, Greece is a bustling seaside city that serves as the main gateway to the Greek islands, rich with maritime heritage and coastal charm.

Microlimano harbor in Piraeus, Greece at sunset.

View Cruises

Deals on Piraeus (Athens), Greece Cruises

Up to FREE Airfare*

A majestic bald eagle in flight against a rocky backdrop, a common wildlife sighting on a Viking Alaska cruise in the USA.

Up to FREE 2-Category Stateroom Upgrade*

An aerial view of a pristine white-sand beach and coastline in Cape Town, South Africa, a scenic port of call on an Oceania Cruises itinerary.

Save 30% on Select Cruises*

MSC Divina sailing in the open ocean during an exciting cruise voyage.

Military Families Save 10%*

Couple enjoying on a picnic on a beach at sunset, and relaxing shore excursion on an MSC cruise.

FREE Champagne, Entertainment, Dining & More*

A Windstar sailing yacht cruises through the stunning tropical bay of Moorea, French Polynesia, with majestic volcanic mountains in the background.

FREE Wi-Fi, Dining, Spa Access & More*

A Viking Ocean cruise ship sails through the waters of Eidfjord, a stunning Norwegian fjord surrounded by lush, green mountains.

Teachers Save 5% & FREE $50 Onboard Credit*

3 women laughing together while leading on the deck railing on Norwegian Encore during a bright, sunny day at sea.

Military Families Save 10%*

A family enjoys a fun beach day in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, with a Norwegian Cruise Line ship sailing in the background on a Mexican Riviera cruise.

Up to $50 FREE Onboard Credit*

The Norwegian Cruise Line ship Pride of America sailing past the scenic coastline of the Hawaiian Islands, offering an island-hopping cruise vacation within the United States.

Buy One, Get One FREE Airfare*

A couple takes a selfie with a scenic view of the blue domes of Santorini, Greece, and a Norwegian Cruise Line ship sailing in the caldera.

Exclusive Savings, Priority Boarding & More with Latitudes Rewards*

A family of four enjoying ice cream together while walking one of the decks of the Norwegian Encore cruise ship.

Specialty Dining, Unlimited Open Bar, Wi-Fi & More*

The Norwegian Escape cruise ship is shown at dusk, sailing away from the island of St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, a popular port of call in the Caribbean.

Up to FREE $2,000 Onboard Credit*

Two people kayak in the waters of Greenland with a Seabourn Venture cruise ship and snow-capped mountains in the background.

Active & Retired Military Members Save up to $200*

Happy couple enjoying their room service breakfast in their Veranda Suite within The Haven onboard the Celebrity Beyond.

Exclusive Events & Savings with the Captain's Club*

A family posing for a fun photo in front of a butterfly sculpture poolside on the Celebrity Edge cruise ship.

Exclusive Onboard Savings, Events & Reduced Fares with Mariner Society*

Woman standing on the beach of Half Moon Cay with a Holland America ship sailing in the background.

Up to $250 Onboard Credit for Military Members*

The Crown Princess cruise ship at sea, with the iconic white and blue buildings of Santorini, Greece visible on the cliffs in the background.

Save up to 70% off Onboard Amenities*

The Discovery Princess cruise ship sailing past the Seattle skyline at sunset, with the Space Needle visible in the background.

Exclusive Events, Experiences & More with Captain's Circle*

A couple heading to an exciting shore excursion at Princess Cays, Princess Cruises' private island.

FREE Butler Service, Gourmet Dining & More*

A happy couple on a Silversea cruise relaxes poolside, playing a game together on a sunny day.

Up to 40% OFF on Your Next Cruise*

Silversea luxury cruise ship docked in the historic harbor of Valletta, Malta, with ancient fortifications visible in the foreground.

FREE Dining, Onboard Activities & More*

Two children joyfully jump into a vibrant pool on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship's deck, with a colorful water feature in the background.

Exclusive Savings & Events with Oceania Club*

A bottle of champagne and 2 lounge chairs on the balcony of a penthouse suite overlooking a bright blue ocean on a beautiful day at sea on an Oceania cruise.

Give $250, Get $250*

A happy couple enjoys a luxurious vacation on a Regent Seven Seas cruise to Capri, Italy, with stunning views of the coast and mountains.

FREE $200 Shipboard Credit & More with Azamara Circle*

Couple relaxing on the pool deck of Azamara Onward.

Save up to 30% on 2027 Cruises*

An aerial view of Oahu, Hawaii, showcasing the stunning Windward Coast and Koʻolau Mountains, an Azamara cruise destination.

FREE AzAmazing Evenings, Drinks, Gratuities & More*

An Azamara ship docked in the stunning Bay of Kotor, Montenegro, a popular Mediterranean cruise destination.

Up to $500 FREE Onboard Credit*

Save up to 30% on Last Minute Sailings*

Seabourn cruise ship sailing through Norwegian fjords and mountains.

FREE Roundtrip First Class Airfare on Select Sailings*

A happy couple standing leaning on the railing of the ship on a luxurious and romantic Regent Seven Seas Alaskan cruise.

FREE All-Inclusive Package Upgrade*

A beautiful tropical beach with white sand and palm trees, representing a perfect excursion on a Windstar Caribbean cruise.

Up to $250 Onboard Credit for Active & Retired Military Members*

A smiling couple enjoying cocktails at a outdoor bar onboard a Cunard cruise ship during a bright, sunny day.

Up to $400 Onboard Credit, FREE Gratuities & Drink Package*

The breathtaking Drakensberg Mountains in South Africa, with their reflection in a calm lake, representing a scenic inland excursion available to guests on a Cunard cruise.

Access Exclusive Savings with Cunard World Club*

Cunard's Queen Mary 2 sailing on the coast of Cape Town, South Africa.

Save up to 20% on 2026 & 2027 Sailings*

A happy couple stands on the deck of the Cunard Queen Anne cruise ship, with the iconic red and black funnel in the background, enjoying the classic voyage experience.

Save up to 50% & Kids Sail FREE*

A family of four relaxing on a white-sand beach in the Bahamas, enjoying a sunny Caribbean day on their Holland America Line cruise.

View All Piraeus (Athens), Greece Deals

Overview

Piraeus (Athens), Greece Cruise Port

Just a short drive from central Athens, Piraeus has long been the heart of Greece’s seafaring tradition. Its deep-water port is one of the busiest in Europe, connecting travelers to sun-drenched destinations across the Aegean. But beyond the ferry terminals, Piraeus has its own lively neighborhoods, shaded squares, and a waterfront lined with cafés, tavernas, and sailboats gently rocking in the breeze.

The city’s history stretches back to ancient times, when it served as the naval base of classical Athens. You can still explore remnants of ancient shipyards, stroll along the historic harbor of Zea, or visit the excellent Archaeological Museum of Piraeus. Modern highlights include the stylish Mikrolimano marina, known for its seafood restaurants and sunset views.

Whether you are catching a ferry, enjoying fresh octopus by the sea, or wandering through local markets, Piraeus offers a more relaxed and authentic slice of Greek city life. It’s the perfect jumping-off point—but also a destination in its own right, with a pace and personality all its own.

Top Things to Do When Visiting Piraeus, Greece

Visit the Acropolis of Athens

No visit to Athens is complete without a trip to the Acropolis, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Located just a short distance from Piraeus, the Acropolis is home to iconic landmarks such as the Parthenon, Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion. These ancient ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into the glory of ancient Greece.

Tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds, and wear comfortable shoes as there is a bit of walking and some uphill climbs.

Explore the Acropolis Museum

After visiting the Acropolis, head to the Acropolis Museum, located at the foot of the hill. This modern museum showcases a stunning collection of artifacts from the ancient Acropolis, including sculptures, pottery, and relics. The museum's glass floors offer unique views of the ruins beneath.

Tip: Don’t miss the Parthenon Gallery, which houses the museum’s most important exhibits.

Wander Around Plaka

Take a stroll through Plaka, Athens’ charming old neighborhood, just below the Acropolis. Plaka is full of narrow, winding streets lined with traditional Greek houses, cafés, and artisan shops. It’s a wonderful place to shop for souvenirs, try Greek snacks, or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Tip: Stop at one of the outdoor cafés for a traditional Greek coffee and enjoy people-watching.

Visit the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus

If you are interested in history, the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus is a must-see. The museum showcases a variety of ancient Greek artifacts, including statues, pottery, and naval objects that highlight Piraeus’ significant role as a maritime hub in ancient times.

Tip: The museum is small and manageable, making it perfect for a quick but enriching visit.

Take a Scenic Stroll along Mikrolimano

Mikrolimano, a picturesque harbor located in Piraeus, is a fantastic spot for a scenic walk or a relaxed meal. The marina is lined with seafood restaurants, offering stunning views of the boats and the Aegean Sea. It’s a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Tip: Enjoy a leisurely seafood lunch at one of the waterside restaurants, and try local specialties like grilled octopus or saganaki (fried cheese).

Relax at the Beach

Piraeus is not only a port city but also offers some great beaches nearby. Votsalakia Beach and Freatida Beach are popular options where you can relax, swim, or rent a beach chair and umbrella for a relaxing day in the sun. If you’re looking for more options, consider heading to the nearby Vouliagmeni Beach for a more upscale beach experience.

Tip: Pack sunscreen, and if you want to avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

Explore the Ancient Temple of Poseidon at Sounion

For an adventurous day trip, head to Cape Sounion, located about an hour’s drive from Piraeus. Here, you’ll find the Temple of Poseidon, perched on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea. This ancient temple is one of Greece’s most beautiful archaeological sites, and the views from the temple are breathtaking.

Tip: If you can, try to time your visit for sunset—it is one of the most stunning views in Greece.

Visit the Piraeus Port and its Historical Significance

Since Piraeus is a major port, it’s worth taking a walk around the harbor area to see the docks where ferries and cruise ships come and go. You can also learn about the port's historical significance in Greek and Mediterranean history, dating back to ancient times when Piraeus was the naval base of Athens.

Tip: Take a moment to admire the Zeus Harbor, an important historical site within the port.

Enjoy Greek Cuisine

While in Piraeus, don't miss the chance to sample authentic Greek cuisine. Head to a local tavern or restaurant to enjoy dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and Greek salad. Many eateries in Piraeus serve fresh fish, caught right off the coast, making it a fantastic spot for seafood lovers.

Tip: Pair your meal with a glass of ouzo or retsina, two popular Greek spirits.

Visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus

If time allows, visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus in central Athens, a short drive from Piraeus. This ancient temple, one of the largest in Greece, was dedicated to the god Zeus and originally had 104 columns. Although most of the structure is in ruins, the remaining columns are an impressive sight.

Tip: The temple is located near Hadrian's Arch and is a great spot for photos.

The reviews are in.

Our expert consultants and customer service teams are standing by to help with all of your cruising needs.

I was having some trouble finding the right cruise for the right price as a single traveler, but thanks to [our Cruise Expert] I was able to find it with Cruise Web. Thank you very much [our Cruise Expert]!

Camille G.

Piraeus (Athens), Greece

Deals on Piraeus (Athens), Greece Cruises

Piraeus (Athens) Cruise Lines

Destinations

Departure Ports

Cruise Lines

Deals

Land Vacations

All About Cruising

Piraeus (Athens), Greece Cruise Port