Sights in ancient Greece and Athens, especially, take on a larger importance than in most other places in the world. They are histories of democracy, Western civilization and philosophy firsthand. You can't help but walk around the Parthenon and the rest of the Acropolis and dream about the great ones who have come before you and whose footsteps you're in.
Athens, Greece, is a must-see on any European tour. The ancient and modern merge in this city in ways that are fascinating and sometimes overwhelming. Pollution wreathes the golden stones of the Acropolis and obscures views of the Saronic Gulf. Cars bleat and belch among ranks of concrete high-rises. But then you turn down a cobbled lane and discover vine-swathed tavernas, tortoises trundling through ancient ruins, and bazaars teeming with dusty treasures. Or perhaps you will encounter a sleek cafe, art gallery or an outdoor cinema that serves ouzo under the stars. Greece's capital has been reinventing itself; the results could not be more charming.
The metro routes are extensive, and the stations dazzle with marble and antiquities. Congested downtown streets have been turned into pedestrian walkways, greatly reducing Athens' notorious smog and noise. Hotels, museums and archaeological sites have been revamped. Gentrified districts—such as Gazi and Psiri—host cafes, clubs and chic restaurants, which even boast smoke-free sections.
Greeks are proud of their Olympic history, their renovated capital city and—most of all—their proven ability to surmount obstacles with flying colors. Athens should remain firmly on the travel map, prized for both its ancient charms and its modern makeover.
Location
Cruise ships moor in the terminal at the port of Piraeus, approximately 6 mi/10 km southwest of Athens city center. With 12 berths, the terminal can accommodate even the largest vessels (the
Queen Mary II, the biggest cruiser in the world, served as a floating hotel, along with several other ships, during the Olympics). Internal shuttle buses deliver passengers from the individual berths to the international-passengers terminal, where facilities include duty-free shops, exchange offices and a bank, plus a large car park. Metro Line 1 connects Monastiraki and Omonia Square in central Athens with the harbor, and taxis are cheap and readily available.
Shore Excursions
Excursions include sightseeing tours of the city, a half-day trip to Sounio, a full-day tour of Delphi and more.
