Piraeus is a charming port city located just 10 kilometers southwest of Athens, Greece. It’s one of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean Sea and serves as a gateway to the Greek Islands.
With a rich history dating back to the 5th century BC, Piraeus has plenty to offer visitors. Explore the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus, stroll through the picturesque Mikrolimano harbor, or indulge in some fresh seafood at one of the many local tavernas. Whether you’re passing through on your way to the islands or making Piraeus your final destination, you won’t be disappointed.
Piraeus is not just a bustling port but an intriguing destination in its own right, inviting visitors to explore its markets, bars, squares, yacht marinas and gourmet restaurants, as well as the local hangouts where impromptu bouzouki evenings bring back the spirit of the fifties and sixties.
The largest of three natural bays, Athens’ port houses a cruise liner terminal as well as docks for ferries carrying passengers to all sorts of Greek islands. And just around the coast, the atmosphere changes in the charming seaside neighbourhoods of Microlimano and Pasalimani, with pockets of neoclassical buildings, bars and excellent seafood tavernas
Beyond its modern-day face, Piraeus encapsulates the history of Greece, symbolised by the ruins of the Long Walls, which once reached Athens and tell tales of centuries of decline and rebirth many times over.
Whether you’re about to set off island hopping in the Aegean or maybe embark on a daytrip to the islands close to Athens, it’s worth making time to explore Piraeus. You can follow the route along the seafront from Piraiki to Freatida, with benches beckoning to stop and enjoy the view. Another invitation comes from colourful Pasalimani, a bay with lively bars and cafes that can easily make you lose track of time.
Wooden decks over the water and the rocking yacht masts set the scene for an unforgettable meal at one of Mikrolimano’s restaurants, just around the bay from Piraeus port. The waiters crack jokes and wear smiles as they carry trays heaped with seafood: grilled octopus, shellfish and snapper, fried crayfish tails and other delicacies. Wine glistens in bottles and ouzo turns cloudy as ice cubes melt. Late at night, as the bar scene gets going at the edge of the picturesque harbour, it’s easy to believe that you’re on an island.
