Skip to main content
Piraeus

Piraeus

09°C

Piraeus

  • Cloudy
  • Humidity 67%
  • Wind speed 2 km/h
Alt text not provided

A gateway to the Aegean and a destination in its own right

Piraeus, the port of Athens, is the largest port in Greece and one of the largest passenger ports in Europe. For many, it is simply the departure point for journeys to the islands. However, Piraeus is so much more: it is a city with an ancient history, noteworthy museums, impressive neoclassical buildings, and beautiful, hidden corners by the sea.
Piraeus thrives in harmony with the sea. In antiquity, it was an island and its name likely derives from the ancient verb diapeiraio, to travel across. Its urban planning is attributed to Hippodamus in the 5th century BC, while it was Themistocles who elevated it to the main port of Athens. Pericles completed its fortification with the Long Walls, which connected it to Athens.
During the Middle Ages, it was known as Porto Leone, named after the imposing stone lion that guarded the entrance to the port. Today, the city's life revolves around its three harbours: the main port, the Zea Marina, and Mikrolimano, while Kastella Hill overlooks the city with aristocratic grandeur. 
Mentioned in countless songs and intrinsically linked to rebetiko music, Piraeus has left an indelible mark on cinema and music. The film Never on Sunday and the Oscar-winning song Children of Piraeus transformed the port into a symbol, a place where "as evening falls, it lines up songs, and changes its melodies, filling with children."

Snapshots

Postcards from a land of endless beauty.

Alt text not provided
Alt text not provided
Alt text not provided
Alt text not provided
Alt text not provided
+8

Signature Experiences

Immerse yourself in the authentic Greek way of life

  • Lipasmata Park of Drapetsona

    Lipasmata Park of Drapetsona

    Lipasmata Park of Drapetsona

  • Not found

    The neighbourhoods of Piraeus

    The neighbourhoods of Piraeus

  • Not found

    Municipal Theatre of Piraeus

    Municipal Theatre of Piraeus

Arrive in Comfort

Seamless connections to start your journey

By Bus

Piraeus is served by numerous bus and trolleybus routes connecting it with central Athens, western suburbs, and the southern coastal areas. Services run frequently throughout the day, making bus travel a convenient option.

Nearby Escapes

Discover hidden gems just a short journey away

View All

Inspirations

Choose the perfect backdrop for your story.

View all

Star-studded Summer Nights

Nothing quite tugs at the heartstrings like the nostalgia for those long, carefree childhood summers. For Greeks across generations, this evokes memories of family days at the beach, thick slices of juicy watermelon, cicadas singing in the sweltering aftern...

Read More
Star-studded Summer Nights

Maritime Museums

5000 years of history The Greeks’ natural affinity with the sea has remained strong across the millennia; this multifaceted and long relationship is shown, and parts of it are highlighted, in maritime and naval museums throughout the country. Begin your jou...

Read More
Maritime Museums

Let Greece inspire you!

Subscribe to our newsletter and discover unique ideas and hidden treasures for your next trip.