Piraeus
The port city of Piraeus has a vast, interesting history that extends back to the Ancient Greeks. From its beginnings in the 5th Century BC handling the country’s growing import trade to one of the most important passenger ports in Europe today, Piraeus has long served as a gateway to Athens.
The biggest port in the Mediterranean, the most attractive quarter of Piraeus lies around Zea Marina and Mikrolimano harbour.[ReadMoreMob] The latter is lined with welcoming cafes, restaurants and bars. Most visitors’ experience of the port, however, is when briefly passing through for the Greek capital.
Athens – one of the world’s oldest cities, is mystical and engrossing, a city that’s steeped in ancient history and antiquity. Over 3000 years old, the city serves as the world centre for archaeological research. Its ancient alleyways and winding streets lead to an impressive array of must-visit museums, ancient churches and some the world’s most significant historic sites.
Athen’s landmarks include the Acropolis, the hilltop citadel stood proudly above the city and topped with ancient buildings like the colonnaded Parthenon Temple. This iconic temple was built in dedication to the Greek goddess of strategy and tactics, Athena, and is over 2500 years old. The National Archaeological and Acropolis Museums preserve priceless sculptures, vases and jewellery from the site.
Below, in the heart of the city, lies the ancient Plaka District. A popular tourist spot, Plaka is home to some fine examples of neoclassical architecture, pretty pedestrianised streets and charming shops and cafes. There are also a number of historic Roman ruins here, as well as the Agias Apostoli – one of the oldest churches in Athens, and the Temple of Hephaestus from 5BC.
Top Experiences
Parthenon, Acropolis
High above Athens stands one of Europe’s most iconic ancient landmarks. This revered site is home to, among others, the Erechtheion, the Old Temple of Athena, and the legendary Parthenon, one of the few Ancient Greek temples known around the world.
Plaka
The oldest district in Athens is truly fascinating. Plaka, at the heart of the city, is a sprawl of labyrinthine streets and stairways, Neoclassical architecture, boutiques, cafes and cosy tavernas. The TV series, The Island (To Nisi) was filmed in Plaka.
Rebetiko
This controversial genre captivated Greece from the turn of the century to the early '50s. A sort of ‘outlaw blues’, the bittersweet songs revolved around the poor, disreputable lifestyles of ‘kousavakidhes’ or members of the Greek underworld.
Corinth Canal
Amazingly, this project was attempted in the first century. Ultimately completed in 1893, this canal is dug at sea level. Steep-sided and curiously narrow, the canal is an impressive spectacle to behold, especially during a leisurely boat trip.
Cruises to Piraeus
Landmarks of Greece & the Adriatic • L2222
- Delve into the rich history and culture of Adriatic and Mediterranean cities
- Explore the ancient sites of Dubrovnik, Kotor, Athens and Olympia
- Sample the beauty and culture of Greece, Spain and Malta
Greek Islands and Corinth Canal • M2311
- Sail the extremely narrow Corinth Canal
- Discover the archaeological site of Olympia
- Explore the Acropolis & Parthenon in Athens
Discovering the Ancient Empires of the Eastern Mediterranean • T2404
- Delve into the influences of ancient empires and kingdoms
- Explore some of the world’s great ancient sites
- Highlights include Athens’ Acropolis and Malta's Grand Harbour
Cuba Transatlantic to the Adriatic & Corinth Canal • M240507
- A unique cruise combining Caribbean and Greek Islands
- Experience Havana to the full
- On Braemar, sail through Greece’s remarkable Corinth Canal
Discovering the Balkans, Corinth Canal & Ancient Greece • M240607
- An itinerary offering a fascinating insight into the ancient Balkan and Greek history
- Delve into the influences of various eras and ruling powers, in centuries-old destinations
- Experience an unforgettable scenic cruise of Greece’s remarkable Corinth Canal
Discovering the Balkans, Corinth Canal, Mediterranean Islands and Seville • M240609
- A very special journey to a collection of captivating Balkan and Mediterranean destinations
- Remarkable historic sites await in cities such as Dubrovnik, Athens and Valletta
- The piece de resistance is a scenic cruise through Greece’s incredible Corinth Canal
Corinth Canal & the Greek Islands • M2412
- Experience an awe-inspiring navigation of the Corinth Canal, only possible thanks to record-breaking Braemar’s smaller size.
- Discover the highlights and ancient sites of Greek islands such Crete, Rhodes and Kefalonia
- On the Greek mainland, take in the world-renowned wonders of Athens and Olympia
Corinth Canal & Ancient Greece • M2407
- Experience the excitement and awe of navigating Greece’s incredible Corinth Canal
- Capture the history, culture and beauty of Greek islands and cities
- Take in the ancient sites of Rhodes, Crete, Olympia and Athens
Corinth Canal & Ancient Greece • M240708
- Experience the best that Greece has to offer, from its historic sites to its scenic delights
- Delve into ancient history amongst the wonders of Rhodes, Athens, Olympia and more
- On board Braemar, sail the incredible Corinth Canal – made possible by your ship’s smaller size
Corinth Canal & Mediterranean Islands with Seville • M240709
- A specially crafted itinerary combining the highlights of Greece, Mediterranean islands and Spain
- Take in ancient Greek sites; historic gems in Malta; Italian delights; and Spanish city culture
- To top-it-off, you’re in for memorable scenic cruising of the remarkable Corinth Canal
