The Acropolis of Athens at sunset with the Parthenon and ancient ruins lit by warm golden light above the city.

Athens (Piraeus), Greece

Cruises from Athens (Piraeus), Greece

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Things to do in Athens, Greece

Athens is a veritable pantheon of divine experiences — for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike. Wander through the ancient Agora, where Socrates once debated, or climb Philopappos Hill for a spectacular view of both the Parthenon and the Acropolis. Then round it out with a taste of modern Athenian life by exploring the upscale boutiques and contemporary art galleries of Kolonaki.

For more ideas, check out our Athens, Greece — Local Connections video and see some of the best attractions the “City of Wisdom” has to offer.

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  • The Parthenon temple on the Acropolis, its tall marble columns glowing under a bright blue sky.

    Despite being ancient, the Parthenon never gets old. Delve into the heart of history at the heart of Athens, and experience the wonders of the Acropolis.

  • Ancient stone columns of the Temple of Olympian Zeus standing tall against a vivid blue sky with the Acropolis in the background.

    The towering columns in the Temple of Olympian Zeus once honored the king of the gods — now they hold a different kind of awe as a must-see stop just steps from the city.

  • Aerial view of the Temple of Poseidon perched on a cliff above the sea with sailboats and green hills in the background.

    Don’t let Zeus hog all the attention. Poseidon’s clifftop temple delivers sea views, salty breezes and a sunset that rivals anything in Greece.

  • The Temple of Hephaestus framed by trees at sunset with soft orange skies and hills in the background.

    Feel like uncovering the mysteries of the universe? Walk where Socrates and other ancient thinkers found their inspiration, and let your mind explore.

  • Woman in a blue dress observing ancient stone carvings on display in a brightly lit museum gallery.

    From ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces, museums in Athens cater to art lovers, history buffs and curious minds alike.

  • Outdoor café tables along a narrow cobblestone street in Plaka with whitewashed walls, blue doors and flowering vines overhead.

    Get an insider’s feel for what Athens is today by visiting the winding lanes, sun-washed buildings and cozy tavernas of the city’s most charming district.

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Shore excursions to explore in Athens

Athens is a city for thinker’s, so why not let Princess take care of the doing? We’ll handle the details and the planning, with curated shore excursions that showcase the best of Athens and its surroundings. From crumbling ruins to bustling markets, Princess takes you to the parts of Athens you won’t want to miss.

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  • The Acropolis of Athens with the Parthenon and ancient ruins lit by evening light against a clear blue sky.

    Ultimate Athens

    Get ready for a history-packed day with a side of Greek wine. This excursion covers all the site-seeing Titans that make Athens special — the Acropolis, Parthenon and Olympian Zeus — plus lunch filled with old-school flavors. Cap it off with free time in Plaka’s cobbled lanes and a peek inside the stunning Acropolis Museum

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  • Colorful buildings and lively streets of Monastiraki Square in Athens with bright pink bougainvillea in the foreground and the Acropolis in the distance.

    Acropolis, Plaka & Temple of Poseidon

    ‘Ruin’ your vacation in the best way possible, by exploring the Acropolis before you even board your ship. Take in the Plaka and then cruise down the coast to Cape Sounion for an Olympus-level look at the Temple of Poseidon perched high above the Aegean sea. Add a Greek lunch, and your day can only be described as epic.

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  • Wide view of the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens, showing curved marble seating and a black running track.

    Acropolis & Rock N' Roll for Families

    Ancient history meets electric guitar on this family-friendly adventure. Explore the Acropolis together, snap a group photo at the Old Olympic Stadium, then refuel with burgers and music memorabilia at the Hard Rock Café. It’s a day that blends rock, both old and new: marble columns with music legends, keeping every age entertained.

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  • Greek meze feast on a rustic table with grilled fish, feta salad, tzatziki, hummus, pita bread, and vegetables.

    Acropolis, A walk through ancient Agora and Mezes

    Scale the heights of the Acropolis, then savor a table full of mezes that would make even Zeus jealous. Stroll the same streets that once echoed with ancient debates in the Agora. With the Stoa of Attalos as your grand finale, this tour is the real ‘Greece’ de résistance.

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Uncover the history, myth and magic of Athens on your next cruise

See the cradle of Western civilization before setting sail on an odyssey all your own. With Athens as a major Princess Cruises® departure port, you’ll have the opportunity to explore timeless landmarks like the Acropolis and the Parthenon, wander through vibrant neighborhoods like Plaka and soak in the charm of a city where the history is as tantalizing as the cuisine. From the iconic sights to the sparkling Aegean waiting just beyond, Athens sets the stage for an unforgettable journey through the Greek Isles and beyond. 

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7-Day Mediterranean with Greece & Italy

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10-Day Mediterranean with Greek Isles & Turkey

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22-Day Western Mediterranean Grand Adventure

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What to know about cruises from Athens, Greece

Athens’ ancient success can be attributed to its prominent location along early sea-based trading routes, and that advantage continues to define the city today. With easy and direct access to both the Mediterranean and Aegean seas, cruise guests leaving from Athens have the perfect starting point to wherever their journey may take them. Here are some things to know before you get started.

Athens at a glance

Docking
Athens cruises depart from the Port of Piraeus, located approximately 7 miles (11 km) from central Athens.

Attire
Opt for light, breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the Mediterranean climate.

Transportation
Choose from taxis, buses or the metro to reach the port. The metro's Line 1 offers a direct route from central Athens to Piraeus.

Cruise to Athens
Evening view of a lively Athens street with outdoor tavernas, colorful tablecloths, and the Acropolis lit in the background.

Dine beneath the glow of lanterns as the Acropolis rises above Athens’ charming streets.

Marble statue of Athena holding a spear and shield atop an ornate column against a blue sky.

Stand before the mighty Athena, guardian of wisdom and protector of Athens.

Ships that cruise from Athens

Our Princess fleet offers MedallionClass®-enabled cruises from Athens, ensuring personalized service and innovative amenities. Experience the comforts of home alongside luxurious touches you won’t find anywhere else, and see what makes our fleet so exceptional. 

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Coral Princess

Coral Princess®

Sail on Coral Princess, an intimate ship that feels like your own personal Odyssey with big-ship dining, entertainment and charm.

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Caribbean Princess

Crown Princess®

Crown Princess treats you like royalty at sea, with endless dining, dazzling shows and starlit movies worthy of the gods.

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Majestic Princess

Majestic Princess®

Majestic Princess turns up the glam with luxe lounges, stylish dining and a Hollywood-inspired vibe that’s as fun-loving as it is elegant.

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Sapphire Princess

Sun Princess®

Shining like Apollo’s chariot, Sun Princess brings next-level design, ocean views and radiant new experiences to every voyage.

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Cruises to Athens FAQs

Let Princess get you there with travel, airfare & hotels

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  • Princess EZair

    Princess EZAir® Flights

    Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time, and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair® flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airline, allow you to book early and pay later with no penalty, and protect you if your flight is late or canceled. Princess EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages. Please note: Princess EZair® is only available in certain markets.

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  • airplane to ship transfer

    Airplane to Ship Transfer

    Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

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  • Cruise Plus hotel packages

    Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

    Extend your cruise vacation and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the representative’s services.

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Cruise deals and promotions

Find our top sales, deals, partnerships and promotions for our destinations all in one place. We run promotions throughout the year and sometimes run sweepstakes where you can win prizes.

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