Cruising to Athens
The historic city of Athens is regarded as one of the greatest destinations on earth – and with good reason. As the birthplace of democracy, classical architecture, and the underpinnings of art as we know it, our societal DNA can be traced back to the proud Greek metropolis. There’s a bit of Athens in all of us.
The famous skyline is dominated by 5th-century BC architecture, including the iconic Acropolis, yet also incorporates a sprawling modern twist that crafts a city like no other. Each neighbourhood radiates its own unique character, with major attractions situated between cafes and restaurants that serve sublime local delicacies. As Hippocrates said: “Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food”.
Yet, a visit to Athens is more than a chance to absorb history. It’s an opportunity to live like an Athenian. In a city rich with nightlife and culture, you can comfortably party by night after peering into the ancient majesty by day, before relaxing in the sun as it rises. It doesn’t get much sweeter than this.
Why cruise Athens
The Greek capital is one of the world’s oldest cities and boasts a rich and fascinating culture. It’s the perfect destination for anyone looking to benefit from a prime European port close to the action.
There’s a plethora of ancient sites, heritage attractions, and enriching landmarks, from the iconic Parthenon to the jaw-dropping Holy Monastery of Kaisariani. It’s not all about the past, though. Athens is the perfect amalgamation of celebrated legacy and modern thinking.
Although Athens’ reputation hasn’t always been favourable with holidaymakers - once regarded purely as a necessary and grimy stopover before venturing into the Greek islands - the situation is now very different. Athens has cleaned itself up, with trendy bars, fascinating museums, and first-class hotels now the order of the day.
Countless cruise lines offer Mediterranean voyages to and from Athens, including ROL Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, P&O Cruises, and Royal Caribbean.
Acropolis
No visit to Athens is complete without a visit to its most famous destination – the Acropolis of Athens. An ancient citadel, whose roots can be traced back to the fourth millennium BC, is home to some of the world’s most famous monuments, including the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion complex and, of course, the Parthenon. You can easily spend a day just wandering around this fascinating site alone – so make sure to take your time and do it properly. The rest of Athens can await your next visit.
Benizelou Mansion
An interesting curio away from the more headline grabbing sites of Athens is the Benizelou Mansion, he oldest house in Athens. Built during the Ottoman era, it is now a popular visitor attraction. The main exhibitions focus on the Benizelos family and, in particular, Agia Filothei, who became a nun and lived in the mansion during the 16th century.
Panathenaic Stadium
The Panathenaic is one of the foremost monuments in Greece. Notable for its connection to the Olympic Games – it hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the first modern games in 1869 and is from where the Olympic flame is transferred to the next host city. The venue traces its roots back to 338 BC, when Lycurgus, an orator in Ancient Greece, outlined plans for a stadium.
Acropoliis Athens, Greece