Most passengers arriving into Piraeus cruise port opt to spend the day in Athens, 12 kilometers away. Athens is known as the birthplace of democracy and a hive of activity - famous for its world-class archaeological sites such as the Acropolis and Temple of Zeus, interesting museums, quaint neighborhoods, lively markets, and traditional Greek tavernas.

It isn’t possible to reach Athens on foot, however, as the journey time is just 20-30 minutes from Piraeus port, and there are several transport options available, some of the main attractions can still be explored in one day.

Port of Athens Piraeus Map

Piraeus Athens Cruise Port is Greece’s largest seaport and one of the busiest in the Mediterranean. The port has three Terminals known as Miaoulis – A, Themistocles – B, and Alkimos -C, with gates E1 to E10 catering mainly to Greek Island ferries and gates E11 and E12 dedicated to larger cruise ships. A shuttle bus operates between terminals for convenience.

If you want to know how to get from Piraeus cruise port to Athens, the cost to reach Athens via taxi or private car service is €25-30 euros. You can also take the Metro from Piraeus station (€1,40 per person one way ticket) to Monastiraki, Onomia or Syntagma stations in Athens. The station is 20 minutes’ walking distance from the cruise port, or a short bus or taxi ride away.

It’s also possible to reach Athens via the X80 bus from outside gates E11 or 12. The express bus stops near the Acropolis and Syntagma Square (€4,50 for a day pass).

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What to do in Athens if You Only Have One Day

Athens is a sprawling city and one day will never be enough time to fully discover its landmarks. The good news is, many of the main tourist attractions are within walking distance of each other, or easily accessible via public transport.

Below, we have curated some of the best areas for self-discovery, and some that can be booked on a cruise port excursion.

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Enjoy Views from the Acropolis

The Acropolis towers high above Athens on a hilltop and can be seen from most of the city. The columned behemoth is part of a larger archaeological site which includes the Parthenon, Temple of Nike Athena, and Odeon of Herodes Atticuse Theater. The views across Athens are spectacular and you can truly feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you wander through the well-preserved, centuries-old ruins.

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Wander Through Plaka Neighborhood

At the foot of the Acropolis is Plaka, one of Athens’ oldest neighborhoods. A place where pedestrianized streets wind past colorful painted houses, where visitors can sample traditional Greek mezze, browse art galleries, and craft shops. The district offers incredible Acropolis views and some fascinating museums too.

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Marvel at Temple of the Olympian Zeus

The impressive half-ruined temple is dedicated to Zeus and just a short walk from the Acropolis, the National Gardens, and Syntagma Square. The temple dates back to 6th century BC and visitors can walk through Doric style columns admiring the architecture, while imagining life here in days gone by.

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Athens Piraeus Cruise Port Excursions

If you wish to plan your shore time in advance, there are Piraeus cruise port to Acropolis excursions, trips to the Ancient Greek and Roman Agora, or you can meander through historic districts and explore the imposing Temple of Zeus. There are also hop-on/hop-off buses in Athens with three routes for those with limited time.

If you want to Stay in Piraeus and Don’t Want to Go to Athens, what to do in Just One Day in Piraeus

If you only have a few hours on dry land, you may consider exploring the port town of Piraeus. The town is famous for its Archaeological Museum, which tells the story of ancient Greece’s most prominent harbor, or simply stroll around Pasalimani where fishing boats bob on the water and restaurants serve traditional Greek food.