Most people simply pass through Piraeus, Greece's largest port city, to board cruise ships or hydrofoils to the islands.
Piraeus can seem congested and industrial along the waterfront, but there is another side to this fascinating place. It has its fair share of charming eateries and often overlooked attractions.
The pretty fishing harbor of Mikrolimano Bay is a good place for a cool evening outing or dining in a seafood restaurant. You can spend the evening in an open-air cafe or in one of the area's lively nightclubs.
Piraeus also has a few other attractions, including the Hellenic Maritime Museum and an archeological museum.
Piraeus may not have the cosmopolitan cachet and renown of Athens, but for those seeking a slice of genuine, informal Greek atmosphere, it is well worth exploring. And for ship aficionados, Piraeus is practically paradise.
To request access to the full version of this destination guide, please provide your email address below. Your email address will only be used for verification purposes and will not be used for marketing purposes.