Top Things to Do in Piraeus, Famed Port City
We live in Athens and go to Piraeus pretty frequently. It’s a short metro ride from home or we bike there ourselves. There are lots of things to do in Piraeus. In fact, the port is an attraction in itself.
Piraeus has it all: marinas, museums, churches, restaurants, beaches, and shops. Most tourist just pass through on their way to and from the country’s islands. They don’t even know it’s a separate city!
Give Piraeus a chance and get to know it. You will discover a more authentic Greece. We have prepared this post with information on Piraeus. We are sure you will like it as much we do!
Is Piraeus worth Visiting
We have to be completely honest: go to Piraeus only if you have extra time. Greece is absolutely gorgeous and packed with culture. Thus, you always feel there isn’t enough time to dwell on your favorite island or town.
That said, you will most likely go through Piraeus, so why not stop for some time? The port is not that big, but it’s super dense. You can walk from attraction to attraction and get to experience local life.
Now, the city offers epic sunsets and views. Plus the marina is quite lovely. There are tons of good restaurants and bars, and the vibe is chilled. Step out of the beaten track and discover Piraeus. You won’t regret it.
You can also visit Piraeus on this hop-on hop-off bus.
Top Things to Do
Walk along the Port
We begin in the northern coast of Piraeus, the port. The ferries to the islands depart from here. You most likely will pass through the port if you visit Greece.
You can walk along the coast to the south. You will see giant ships coming and going. The first landmark you will see is Piraeus Tower. The 1972 building was in tatters until 2023 when it opened as Greece’s only green skyscraper. The views from the 3rd floor terrace are super cool.
Keep walking south along the port to Saint Nikolaos Holy Orthodox Church. You will recognize it from its large blue dome. The 1879 church is dedicated to Saint Nikolaos, patron of sea men.
Visit the Holy Trinity Church
Since Piraeus is a different city, it has its own cathedral. The Holy Trinity Church is in front of a park, next to the sea. You will see lots of cute cats hanging around the park. Check out the church, go in, and prepare to be dazzled.
Construction of the original cathedral began as soon as Greece won its independence from the Ottoman Empire. However, it was severely damaged when the allies bombed Piraeus.
The temple we can see today opened in 1956. That said, everything within the chapel of Saint Cyril and Methodius is original.
Stroll along Pedestrian Sotiros Dios Street
Pedestrian Sotiros Dios Street is Piraeus’ main drag. It begins in the park in front of the Cathedral, next to the coast. All types of shops and eateries line the 12 block pedestrian street.
Two blocks east of the park, you will be behind Korai Square (Plateia Korai), Pireaus’ epicenter. It’s a massive square divided by a wide street. The Municipal Theatre from 1895 presides over the northern section. The metro from Athens is there.
You can pick your favorite tavern or cafe, chill and people watch. You will see mostly locals going about their daily lives. Trees provide shade and it’s very safe, even at night.
Explore Street Art
If you spend time in Greece, you will notice its fascination with graffiti. We believe Athens is Europe’s street art capital. Well, Piraeus is not far behind. The port is full of ever-changing graffiti.
The city’s most famous graffiti is We Have the Power by INO. The giant face of an older man staring at the face of a child covers the wall of a building next to the port. Another massive one is on Politechniou Street between Karaoli Ke Dimitrou and El. Venizelou Streets. It resembles a lion.
Our favorite is the face of a woman with a vortex that covers a big building on the corner of Filellinon and Notara Streets. It’s called Lost and is also made by INO.
Have Lunch in Mikrolimano
Mikrolimano is on the eastern shore of Piraeus, just after Votsalakia Beach. Everybody who’s somebody in Piraeus has lunch or dinner here. Two to 4 story buildings line the bay. It’s quiet and safe.
The area in the middle of the marina is full of old houses. It used to be a fishing village. You have over 12 sea front restaurants to choose from. Our favorite is Varoulko Seaside Restaurant, a fancy restaurant with unforgettable views. A bit pricey but totally worth it.
For cocktails at night we go to Horizon Rooftop of Senses, directly on the marina. The views from this cool bar & restaurant are awesome. We sometimes go in the morning for brunch too.
Stroll along Marina Zeas
Marina Zeas is our favorite place in Piraeus. We end our bicycle ride from Athens there. We rest, have a coffee and pastry at Attica Bakeries Marina Zea with sea views, and off we go.
We are referring to the bay to the southeast of the port. Mikrolimano is to the northeast, and Freatida Beach to the south. Begin your walk at the lighthouse of Marina Zea, at the southern tip of the bay. You will see the beach and the marina.
You will pass the Hellenic Maritime Museum, small but interesting. Walk all along the coast and end in Votsalakia Beach. It’s a small pebble beach where you can chill.
Visit the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus
Piraeus couldn’t be one the biggest cities in Greece without an Archaeological Museum. The museum is two blocks from Marina Zeas. It has an old building from 1935 and a new one. Both surround the remains of the ancient Zea Theater.
We have to be honest: we are archaeology geeks. Another reason why we love Greece so much! Piraeus’ museum is not that big but it’s worth your time.
It’s got a superb collection of sculptures. Most of the articles are from the 2nd to the 4th Century AC. We loved the marble lions! The bronze sculptures are fascinating.
Where to Stay in Piraeus
Though we strongly recommend spending the night in Athens, maybe you have an early or late boat ride and need to spend the night. Or you are different and want to experience one of the hotels near Piraeus port.
We’ve staid a couple of times at The Port Square Hotel and loved it. It’s in an unbeatable location: in front of the port and next to the metro station that takes you to Athens. The rooms are super comfy.
We spent one night at The Alex Monte Castella Hotel and had a great time. The contemporary tower is in Mikrolimano. Thus the jaw dropping views from the rooftop restaurant. The best rooms have a balcony overlooking the sea.
