07 December 2023 Last Updated: 12 December 2023

Explore Piraeus, Athens

Housing Greece’s chief port, the 5th largest passenger port in Europe and the 24th in the world, millions and millions of people pass and experience Piraeus every year. Though it is more of a transient city, it bustles with life, attractions, communities, shops, and businesses.

Piraeus has a longstanding history as a port city, having served as classical Athens’ port city, receiving all of the city’s trade and imports, a tradition which it still carries today. Though the city, much like the rest of Greece, has an ancient, rich history, it is nowadays an international hub. Piraeus is equipped with great accesses via public transportation, either by tram, metro, or even ferry lines to other Greek islands, and public parks, museums, and it also boasts the University of Piraeus, one of the largest universities in Greece, which includes the country's second-oldest business school.

Being so close to the sea, the city’s cuisine has a long and deep association with fish and seafood. The Port itself is home to countless bars, restaurants, and cafés, ready to provide fresh meals for all types of budgets. There are also nearby seafood markets, which supply the restaurants before the time for lunch or dinner, and a vibrant nightlife scene.

Piraeus blends antiquity and modernity, and the city is undeniably Greek. If you are considering moving to Greece, you can experience the city for yourself by purchasing property in Piraeus and have all amenities at your disposal, all the while being close to Athens.

Things to do in Piraeus

The Archaeological Museum of Piraeus

The Archaeological Museum of Piraeus is a must-visit attraction for any interested in learning about the city’s history and foundation. The Museum paints a picture of Ancient Piraeus, Greece, and the greater Athens region, from its humble beginnings to the commercial powerhouse of the Eastern Mediterranean, serving as Athens’ naval dockyard. Designed in a chronological manner, visitors will be able to clearly define and tell apart each of the major eras of the past and watch history unfold through the Museum’s plethora of artifacts, including those from the Roman Era, iron and bronze statues, and marble sculptures. The Museum is also home to the Zea Theatre, a monument which has stood the test of time, having been constructed in 2 BCE.

Municipal Theatre of Piraeus

Experience Greek art in any form, be it through plays, concerts, events, or exhibitions while you are comfortably living in Piraeus by visiting the Municipal Theatre of Piraeus. Inspired by neoclassical influences, the Theater was built in the late 19th century, it is the best-preserved Greek theater building from that time. The majestic building which houses the Theater is located right in the heart of the city, in the Korai Square. It immediately became a cultural landmark for the city, a place of creation for the Greek arts, and an icon symbolizing the city with its luxurious decoration and stunning design.

Ancient Long Walls of Piraeus

Greece is riddled with ancient structures and Piraeus is no exception, a testament of how much Greece helped shape the modern world. Perhaps, some of the most famous structures are the Long Walls in Corinth and Megara, though the original construction is in Piraeus. Experience this for yourself and travel into the past by marveling at the formidable fortifications of the Ancient Long Walls of Piraeus. Millennia ago, after the Battle of Platea, Athens ordered the construction of these walls, which served to protect the inner city as well as the nearby port in Piraeus. Despite most sections being in ruins, some parts remain well-preserved and are definitely worth the visit.

Votsalakia Beach

Take a break from all the exploration of stunning Piraeus and the learning of ancient history, and lounge by the sands of Piraeus’ very own Votsalakia Beach, which literally means “small pebbles”, as they dot the long stretches of shoreline. This beach is public and offers sunbeds and umbrellas supplied by a local beachside bar and is the perfect option for Piraeus’ residents. Enjoy the warm, sunny weather, or dip your toes and take a dive in the waters of the Saronic Gulf, all while being close to the city, to your property, and all the amenities without having any concern in the world.

The Port Town

The Port Town is where daily life occurs in Piraeus and is more of a collection of local neighborhoods such as Kastella, Mikrolimano, and Pasalimani. Whether you are just lazing around or enjoying the sights, you will always be surrounded by the sea. Kastella is built on top of a hill, providing amazing views over the city, especially at night, when the Acropolis in Athens lights up. Mikrolimano, literally meaning Little Port, is perfect for a healthy lunch at one of its many restaurants, and an afternoon stroll alongside the Saronic Gulf and relaxing for a while. Pasilimani, on the other hand, is the marina of the city, filled with tavernas, bars and restaurants, and perfect for sea activities, such as sailing and getting on hovercrafts.