What to do in Athens on a Cruise Stopover
August 24, 2023
Athens is an ancient city with a history and culture that date back thousands of years. It is the capital of Greece and is known for its historical monuments, rich cuisine, and lively nightlife.
If you have a cruise stopover in Athens, there are plenty of things you can see and do. But first, let's see how to get to the center of Athens from the cruise terminal and how to get around the city using public transportation.
How to Get to the Center of Athens from the Cruise Terminal
The cruise terminal is located in Piraeus, which is the second-largest city in Greece and the country's largest port. It is about 10 kilometers southwest of the center of Athens, the capital of Greece.
Upon exiting the terminal, you will find the X80 Bus stop. This bus takes you to the center of Athens in approximately 45 minutes and has a stop at the Acropolis, so if you want to make the most of your day in Athens, it's the best option.
The first thing you need to do is purchase your daily ticket, which costs €4.10. With this ticket, you can use the X80 Bus and the rest of Athens' public transportation (buses, trams, metro).
Visit the Acropolis
The Acropolis is the main tourist attraction in Athens. It is a hill that dominates the city and houses some of the most iconic monuments of Ancient Greece, such as the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike.
To purchase tickets, you can visit the official website.
Stroll through the Ancient Agora
The Ancient Agora was the center of public life in Ancient Greece. It was the place for political meetings, markets, and religious festivals. Today, the Ancient Agora is an archaeological park that houses ruins of temples, buildings, and monuments.
Visit the Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts from Ancient Greece. The collection includes sculptures, ceramics, jewelry, and other objects found on the Acropolis and in other locations in Athens.
Hike up Mount Lycabettus
Mount Lycabettus is a mountain that rises above Athens. From its summit, there are stunning views of the city and the Aegean Sea. You can reach it on foot, by cable car, or by bus.
Explore Plaka Neighborhood
Plaka Neighborhood is the oldest neighborhood in Athens. It is full of narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and traditional shops. It's a great place to stroll, have a coffee, or try Greek cuisine.
Tips for a Cruise Stopover in Athens
- Purchase your entrance ticket for the Acropolis in advance. Lines to enter can be long, especially in high season.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes. Athens is a very pedestrian-friendly city.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much time do I need to visit Athens on a cruise stopover?
It depends on the duration of your stopover. If you have only a few hours, you can visit the Acropolis and stroll through the Ancient Agora. If you have more time, you can visit other places, such as the Acropolis Museum, Plaka Neighborhood.
What is the best time to visit Athens?
The best time to visit Athens is in spring or autumn when the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds.
What is the easiest way to get to Athens?
Most cruises dock at the Port of Piraeus, which is located about 10 kilometers from the city center. From the port, you can reach the city center by metro, bus, or taxi.
Athens is a historic city with much to offer visitors. With a little planning, you can make the most of your cruise stopover in this Greek city.
