Car Hire Piraeus - Mini guide to Piraeus

Since antiquity Piraeus has been the chief port of Athens. In the city’s bustling three harbours you will find cruise ships, seafood stands, hydrofoils and lots of people. Nowadays, thousands pass thorugh en-route to the islands, but if you have a few hour’s to kill there are several attractions worth seeking out.

The three harbours of the city are distinct and each is interesting to see. In the main commercial harbour, Megas Limani, can be found cruise ships and giant tankers. The Zea Marina contains hydrofoils that go the various islands of Greece. And the smallest harbour, known as the Turkish Harbor, primarily serves yachts and contains numerous seafood restaurants.

The Maritime Museum or Akti Themsitokleous, located in the Zea Marina, contains model ships from the dawn of maritime activity to the present day. Or if you are tired of all of the maritime attractions, the Archaeological Museum has several artifacts of interest including three magnificent bronze statues depicting Apollo, Athena and Artemis.

Many travelers find themselves in Piraeus only very briefly as they wait for a ferry. If you are here for several hours or overnight the city offers decent hotels and restaurants. If you feel adventurous, there is an enormous open-air flee market to explore, or if you prefer, the Kastella Theatre offers nightly summertime open-air performances.

The Athens metro serves Piraeus, and thus this city and all it has to offer is very nearby.

The easiest way to get to Piraeus is via the Athens metro which travels south from the central Omonia square and other stops. Athens International airport has flights to and from many cities all over the world. Another way to arrive in Piraeus is from the many hydrofoils that come and go to the many islands of Greece.