Athens is the capital city of Greece and is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history spanning over 3,000 years. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and its numerous ancient landmarks, including the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Athens is also a bustling modern metropolis with a vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine, and a thriving arts scene. The city is in the southeastern part of Greece, overlooking the Aegean Sea, and is a popular tourist destination for people from all over the world.
Cruise Port
The Athens Cruise Port is located in Piraeus, which is about 10 kilometers southwest of the city center of Athens. The port is one of the busiest in the Mediterranean, welcoming thousands of cruise passengers every year. The port has three main cruise terminals: A, B, and C. Terminal A is the oldest and most basic, while Terminal B is the most modern and offers more amenities. Terminal C is used mainly for ferries and smaller vessels. The Athens Cruise Port offers a range of facilities and services for passengers, including currency exchange, ATMs, a post office, shops, cafes, and restaurants. There is also a tourist information center at the port, where you can get maps, guides, and advice on what to see and do in Athens. From the port, you can easily reach Athens city center by taxi, bus, or metro. The metro is the most convenient and affordable option, with trains running every 5-10 minutes and taking about 20-25 minutes to reach the city center. Taxis are also readily available, but can be more expensive, especially during peak tourist season. Overall, the Athens Cruise Port offers a convenient and well-equipped gateway for cruise
passengers looking to explore the wonders of Athens and the surrounding area.
(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});
Weather
Athens enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot and dry summers and mild winters. The summer months, from June to August, can be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). In contrast, winters are generally mild, with occasional rainfall and temperatures rarely falling below 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit).
Currency
The official currency in Greece is the euro (EUR), and it is widely accepted in Athens. Tourists can easily exchange their home currency for euros at banks, exchange offices, or ATMs, which are widely available throughout the city. Most hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas accept major credit cards, such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. It is also common for small shops and restaurants to accept cash only, so it’s a good idea to carry some euros with you at all times. Additionally, it’s important to note that tipping is generally expected in Athens, especially in restaurants and cafes, and it is customary to leave a tip of around 10% of the total bill.
(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});
Language
English is widely spoken in Athens, especially in tourist areas. Most hotel staff, restaurant servers, and shopkeepers in popular tourist spots will speak English, and signs and menus in these areas are often written in both Greek and English. Additionally, many Greeks are multilingual and may also speak other languages, such as German, French, or Italian, especially in areas frequented by tourists. However, it’s always a good idea to learn a few basic Greek phrases to help you get by, and locals will
often appreciate the effort. A simple “hello” (γειά σου – “yia sou”), “thank you” (ευχαριστώ – “efharisto”), and “goodbye” (αντίο – “adio”) can go a long way in making a good impression and fostering positive interactions with locals.
Transportation
There are several modes of transportation for tourists to get around Athens from the cruise port
Metro
Athens has an extensive metro system that connects the city center with the port of Piraeus, where many cruise ships dock. The Line 1 (green line) connects Piraeus with central Athens, including the Acropolis, Syntagma Square, and Monastiraki. This is a convenient and inexpensive option, with a one-way ticket costing around 1.40 euros.
Bus
There are several bus routes that connect the port of Piraeus with Athens city center and other destinations in the region. The X80 bus, for example, runs from Piraeus to the Acropolis, while the 040 bus goes to Syntagma Square. Tickets cost around 1.20 euros for a single journey.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available at the cruise port and throughout Athens. It’s a convenient option if you have limited time or want to explore specific areas of the city that are not well- connected by public transportation. Taxis are metered, with fares starting at around 3.20 euros, and there are additional charges for luggage and late-night rides.
Private Transfer
If you prefer a more comfortable and hassle-free option, you can arrange for a private transfer from the cruise port to your hotel or other destinations in Athens. Many tour companies and taxi services offer this option, and prices vary depending on the distance and the size of your group.
Rental Car
If you’re planning to explore Athens and the surrounding region on your own, you can rent a car from the cruise port or from other locations in the city. However, it’s important to note that driving in Athens can be challenging, especially for those not used to European traffic and road rules.
Hop-on Hop-off Bus
The Hop-on Hop-off bus is a popular sightseeing option in Athens, Greece. Here’s some information about it:
The Bus
The Hop-on Hop-off bus is a double-decker bus with an open top, which allows you to enjoy the sights and sounds of Athens as you tour around the city.
The Route
The bus follows a set route that covers many of Athens’ top attractions, including the Acropolis, the National Archaeological Museum, Syntagma Square, and Plaka.
The Tickets
You can buy a ticket for the Hop-on Hop-off bus at various locations throughout the city, including the cruise port, major hotels, and online. Tickets are typically valid for one or two days, and they allow you to get on and off the bus at any of the designated stops along the route.
The Frequency
The Hop-on Hop-off bus runs frequently throughout the day, with buses arriving at each stop every 15-30 minutes, depending on the time of day and the season.
The Commentary
The bus features an audio commentary in multiple languages, including English, which provides information about the sights and attractions as you pass by them.
The Convenience
The Hop-on Hop-off bus is a convenient way to see many of Athens’ top attractions, especially if you have limited time or mobility. You can choose to get off at any stop along the route and explore the area on foot, and then hop back on the next bus when you’re ready to continue your tour.
(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});
Food To Try
Greek cuisine is known for its delicious and flavorful dishes, and there are many must-try foods when visiting Greece. Here are a few of the most common and popular local foods in Greece:
Moussaka
This is a classic Greek dish made with layers of eggplant, potato, and ground meat, topped with a creamy béchamel sauce and baked in the oven.
Souvlaki
This is a popular Greek street food made with grilled skewered meat, typically pork or chicken, served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and tomato, onion, and cucumber salad.
Greek Salad
This is a simple yet delicious salad made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, bell peppers, feta cheese, and olives, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice.
Spanakopita
This is a savory pastry made with spinach and feta cheese, wrapped in crispy phyllo dough.
Gyro
This is a popular Greek fast food made with seasoned meat, typically pork or chicken, cooked on a vertical rotisserie, and served with pita bread, tomato, onion, and tzatziki sauce.
Dolmades
These are stuffed grape leaves filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes meat, and typically served as an appetizer.
Dolmades
This is a sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and honey syrup, and is a popular dessert in Greece.
These are just a few examples of the delicious local foods you can try in Greece. Whether you’re looking
for a savory dish or a sweet treat, Greek cuisine is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});
Places To Visit
Here are some popular places to visit in Athens, Greece:
Acropolis and Parthenon
This ancient citadel and its most famous temple, the Parthenon, are iconic landmarks of Athens and are a must-see for any visitor to the city.
Acropolis Museum
Acropolis Museum is located near the Acropolis, this museum houses a large collection of ancient artifacts and sculptures, including many from the Parthenon.
National Archaeological Museum
National Archaeological Museum: This museum is one of the largest and most important archaeological museums in the world, with an extensive collection of ancient Greek art and artifacts.
Ancient Agora
This ancient marketplace was once the heart of Athens’ political and social life, and it is home to many well-preserved ruins and monuments.
Plaka
This charming neighborhood is one of the oldest in Athens and is known for its narrow streets, neoclassical buildings, and traditional tavernas.
Monastiraki Flea Market
This bustling market is a popular destination for souvenir shopping, with vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to vintage clothing and antiques.
Lycabettus Hill
This hill offers panoramic views of Athens and the surrounding region, and it can be reached by hiking, driving, or taking a funicular railway.
Syntagma Square
This large public square is home to the Greek Parliament and is a popular spot for people-watching and taking in the city’s lively atmosphere.
Temple of Olympian Zeus
This ancient temple was once one of the largest in Greece and is home to 15 surviving columns, making it an impressive sight to behold.
Mount Olympus
Although not located in Athens, Mount Olympus is a popular day trip destination for those interested in hiking, nature, and mythology, as it is believed to be the home of the gods in ancient Greek mythology.
(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});
Video
Check out our video of Hop on Hop off in Athens
Athens, Greece is a popular destination for cruise passengers, and for good reason. The city is rich in history, culture, and stunning architecture, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient civilizations and modern-day Greek culture. Getting around Athens is easy, thanks to a variety of transportation options, including the Hop-on Hop-off bus, taxis, and the metro. Cruise passengers will also appreciate the many restaurants, cafes, and shops that line the streets of Athens, offering a taste of local Greek cuisine and unique souvenirs. Overall, Athens is a fascinating and exciting destination for cruise passengers looking to explore one of the world’s oldest and most influential cities.
