Piraeus isn’t exactly the most scenic city in Greece, but if you’re trying to catch an early-morning ferry to the islands, or getting in late, it’s a convenient place to overnight.
It’s been the port of Athens since ancient times, and the commercial port since 1834. There are actually three harbors here, so make sure you know which one your boat leaves from and leave yourself plenty of time to find the berth. The port is huge.
Getting to Piraeus from Athens is easy. Express buses leave every twenty minutes and the train leaves every half hour.
Piraeus attractions.
There isn’t a lot to do in Piraeus, aside from enjoying the cafes down at the old Turkish Harbor. But if you have a morning or afternoon on your hands, check out the Maritime Museum or Akti Themistokleous. With a classical war ship and models of ships from ancient times to the present, it brings to light Greece’s lengthy seafaring history.
Although it doesn’t compare to the museum in Athens, the Archaeological Museum has several impressive bronze statues, a reconstructed mausoleum, Roman and Hellenistic sculpture, and many ancient artifacts.
Piraeus hotels.
A member of the Great Hotels of the World Group, the Piraeus Theoxenia is the most deluxe hotel in Piraeus. The 9-story building combines modern and classical themes. With conference facilities, a business center, and high-speed Internet access, it’s a good choice for business travelers too. The 76 rooms have bathrobes, slippers, high-speed Internet access, satellite TV, and mini bars. There’s a fitness center, a bar with sweeping views, and an Italian restaurant.
The Efplias Hotel has 23 apartments that include kitchenettes, 26” LCD TVs, and free high-speed Internet access. The location is convenient and there’s an on-site parking garage. The complex, which was built in 2008, features a gym and Jacuzzi, and a continental breakfast is served each morning.
Very close to the port, the Piraeus Dream Hotel is one of the most affordable hotels in Piraeus. Although there’s no restaurant at the property, there are several within walking distance and an American breakfast buffet is served. There’s free WiFi and satellite TV in all 47 rooms.
Faros I was renovated recently and the 40 rooms here, though basic, are clean and well designed. The hotel has a bar, a breakfast room and a tour desk that will make ferry reservations for you.
Rooms at the Hotel Noufara have double-paned windows, mini bars, and satellite TV, and many have balconies overlooking the harbor. Laundry service is a nice extra. There’s an attractive bar, And a good breakfast is served each morning. Noufara is a nice, three-star hotel in a good location.
1) Hellenic Maritime Museum
2) Archaeological Museum
3) Piraeus Theoxenia Hotel
4) Efplias Hotel Piraeus
5) Piraeus Dream Hotel
6) Faros I Hotel
7) Hotel Noufara