Piraeus: things to do in Athens' port city
Most visitors pass through Piraeus only to catch a ferry, but Athens' port city has pretty harbours, fish tavernas and museums worth a few hours.
- Mikrolimano, a small harbour lined with fish tavernas, is the loveliest spot for dinner.
- The Averof battleship, the Archaeological Museum and the Maritime Museum are the main sights.
- Metro line 1 and line 3 run from Athens to Piraeus; check which gate your ferry leaves from.
If you have a few hours before or after a ferry, or a free evening in Athens, Piraeus makes a good outing: seaside dinner, a waterfront walk and one museum.
More than a port
Piraeus is Athens' main port and one of Europe's busiest, the starting point for most island ferries. It is also a city in its own right; Discover Greece suggests giving it at least half a day.
What to do
| Place | What is there |
|---|---|
| Mikrolimano | Small harbour with fishing boats and seafront fish tavernas |
| Kastela hill | Hilltop neighbourhood with harbour views and the Prophet Elijah chapel |
| Averof battleship | Historic warship turned floating museum at Trocadero Marina |
| Archaeological Museum | Bronze statues and finds, beside a Hellenistic theatre |
| Hellenic Maritime Museum | Naval history, ship models and maps |
| Municipal Theatre | Handsome 1884 building in the centre |
| Flea market | Sunday mornings: antiques, books and bric-a-brac |
Mikrolimano
The most photographed spot: colourful boats and a row of seafood restaurants on the water. Great for dinner but pricey. Walk up to Kastela for sunset. No kosher food here; see kosher hotels in Athens.
The Averof
An early 20th-century battleship moored as a museum at Trocadero Marina, between Piraeus and Palaio Faliro. Children love it. Check opening hours.
Getting there from Athens
- Metro line 1 (green): from Monastiraki or Omonia to Piraeus station, opposite the port.
- Metro line 3 (blue): reaches Piraeus; some trains run from the airport.
- Taxi: handy with luggage, especially early morning.
Ferry tip
The port is huge with many gates. Your ticket shows the gate; a free shuttle runs between distant gates, but arrive early. See ferries in Greece, islands near Athens and Athens.
FAQ
What is there to do in Piraeus? Dinner at Mikrolimano, the walk up Kastela hill, and the Averof or the Archaeological Museum.
How long from Athens to Piraeus? Usually about 20–30 minutes on metro line 1 from central Athens, depending on the station.
Is Piraeus safe? Tourist areas are fine, as in any big city; watch for pickpockets around the port and on public transport.
When is the Piraeus flea market? Sunday mornings.
