Piraeus
25°C
Piraeus
- 04/07/2026
- Humidity 55%
- Wind speed 3.3 km/h
A gateway to the Aegean, but also a destination in its own right
Piraeus thrives in harmony with the sea. In antiquity, it was an island and its name likely derives from the ancient verb diapeiraio, to travel across. Its urban planning is attributed to Hippodamus in the 5th century BC, while it was Themistocles who elevated it to the main port of Athens. Pericles completed its fortification with the Long Walls, which connected it to Athens.
During the Middle Ages, it was known as Porto Leone, named after the imposing stone lion that guarded the entrance to the port. Today, the city's life revolves around its three harbours: the main port, the Zea Marina, and Mikrolimano, while Kastella Hill overlooks the city with aristocratic grandeur.
Mentioned in countless songs and intrinsically linked to rebetiko music, Piraeus has left an indelible mark on cinema and music. The film Never on Sunday and the Oscar-winning song Children of Piraeus transformed the port into a symbol, a place where "as evening falls, it lines up songs, and changes its melodies, filling with children."
Snapshots
Postcards from a land of endless beauty.
Signature Experiences
Get a glimpse of the Greek way of life
How to get there?
By Bus
Piraeus is served by numerous bus and trolleybus routes connecting it with central Athens, western suburbs, and the southern coastal areas. Services run frequently throughout the day, making bus travel a convenient option.
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