New Cruises From Athens (Piraeus)

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.