Flight Ease
Holland America Line Flight Ease® offers specially negotiated low prices, a convenient and worry-free way to book air travel, late-arrival protection, and the freedom to change your flights with no change fees.
A collection of more than 11,000 Greek artifacts make this museum one of the most significant in the world. Golden death masks, larger-than-life bronze gods and black-and-terracotta pottery portray a panorama of Greek civilization. Highlights include the Antikythera Mechanism, a mechanical calculator designed to calculate astronomical positions, and dramatic Grecian frescoes depicting mysterious blue monkeys.
It’s impossible to miss the Parthenon, the majestic ruin rising above Athens. You’ll catch glimpses of it as you travel around the city. But to truly understand the significance of this 2,500-year-old symbol of ancient Greece, a trip up to the Acropolis—the high hill it sits on—is a must. The crowds at the Parthenon will be thick. Plan to visit early or late in the day.
A visit to this museum is a must for history enthusiasts and amateur archaeologists. See findings from the slopes of the Acropolis, from the Bronze Age to the Roman and Byzantine Greece. Reinforced glass floors offer an exciting view of the excavation below. The bittersweet highlight is the Parthenon frieze, an incredibly detailed marble sculpture, the majority of which is housed in the British Museum.
This hilly district is undoubtedly the most scenic of Piraeus. Amble through Kastella’s winding uphill rues, past forgotten mansions with curled iron balconies. Take in dazzling sea views from the hill’s summit and see islands twinkling on the horizon. Catch a concert at the open-air Veakio Theatre. Make your way back down to Mikrolimano, the ritzy yacht-lined harbor for an al fresco lunch or dinner.
Founded around 1900, this kafeneion is a popular place in Dexameni square for an after-movie ouzo or a mezze (a bite). Get cozy and people-watch at a tiny table sidled up to a pedestrian walkway. Enjoy basil meatballs, deep-fried whitebait, and grilled halloumi (cheese) with candied figs.
A trip to Athens isn’t complete without climbing its highest peak. Don’t sweat it; the funicular whisks visitors up every half an hour. According to legend, Lycabettus was once the refuge of wolves, but now it is home to an open-air amphitheater, a restaurant with sweeping views, and St. George, a quaint Greek Orthodox church. See the island of Aegina shimmering on the horizon or watch the sun rise or set here; it’s magical.
When was Piraeus (Athens) founded? Piraeus was founded in the early 5th century B.C., when it was selected to become the port of Athens
Where is Piraeus (Athens) located? Piraeus is located approximately 5 miles southwest from the city of Athens
What is the population of Athens? 664,046
What language is primarily spoken? Greek
What is the time zone of Piraeus (Athens)? Eastern European Time (EET) and Eastern European Summer Time (EEST)
What currency is used in Piraeus (Athens)? Euro (EUR)
How do I book a flight to Athens? At Holland America we offer cruise travelers low prices on their flights. Please see more information on our Flight Ease program here.
Where should I stay when cruising from Athens? We offer hotel packages to our already booked guests. For more information, visit our hotel packages and pre- or post-travel arrangements.
What are some of the top places to see in Athens? Visit our Athens port page for more information on our top travel recommendations.
What should I expect boarding to like for my cruise departing Athens? Please visit our cruise preparation FAQ for information on how to access or print boarding passes, how to check in online, and to see if you need a passport.
Can I book an airport shuttle to my cruise departing Athens? Book an airport transfer from the airport to your ship after you book a cruise with Holland America Line. We make getting to and from your cruise comfortable, convenient and hassle-free. For more information on EXC City Stays & Overland Tours, please visit: https://www.hollandamerica.com/en_US/pre-post-travel-cruise.html
Are you an already booked guest with Holland America Line? For booked guests, please see our travel planning details on how to book an airport transfer.
Please visit our most frequently asked questions page on cruise preparation, transportation, safety and security, and more.
Holland America Line Flight Ease® offers specially negotiated low prices, a convenient and worry-free way to book air travel, late-arrival protection, and the freedom to change your flights with no change fees.
Find exceptional City Stays & Pre/Post Overland Packages, which offer a seamless experience ashore to add to your cruise.
Life should be celebrated! What better way than with a Holland America Line cruise? Let us create the perfect event while you relax and have the time of your life.
“Best Cruise Itineraries: Alaska | Mexican Riviera | Panama Canal”
2019 Cruise Critic Awards