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paharo45

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There's a cruise that you can take as a day trip from Piraeus while staying in the Athens area - it goes to Hydra, Aegina, and Poros. Does anyone know what I am talking about? I know some people who did it and loved it, and I want to do it, too. I want to be able to book it in advance. I can't find anything about the cruise unfortunately! Does anyone know about it and can steer me in the right direction?
 
Several companies offer basically the same three-island tour. You can check out on-line C.H.A.T. Tours (www.chat-tours.com.) Tour #27, Viator, GetYourGuide, and Trip Advisor’s listing of the 10 Best Saronic Gulf Tours. I took the C.H.A.T. tour years ago and even then, I was a bit turned off by how touristy it was. Having a standard buffet lunch on board was not my idea of actually getting a sense of places. However if your time is limited, it IS a very efficient way of seeing three extremely popular Saronic Gulf islands.

You can also visit any one of these islands on your own via hydrofoil from Piraeus for a great day trip. In recent years we’ve focused on Aegina because it’s the closest to Athens, has a lot to offer including the Temple of Aphaia, and it’s possible to also visit the more secluded islands of Agistri and Moni.
 
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There's a cruise that you can take as a day trip from Piraeus while staying in the Athens area - it goes to Hydra, Aegina, and Poros. Does anyone know what I am talking about? I know some people who did it and loved it, and I want to do it, too. I want to be able to book it in advance. I can't find anything about the cruise unfortunately! Does anyone know about it and can steer me in the right direction?
Yes, I did it many years ago when I was in Athens. You should be easily able to do when you're in Athens, unless things gave drastically chsnged! It seemed to be advertised everywhere. Ask at the front desk of the hotel you're staying it if you don't see advertising for it.
 
There's a cruise that you can take as a day trip from Piraeus while staying in the Athens area - it goes to Hydra, Aegina, and Poros. Does anyone know what I am talking about? I know some people who did it and loved it, and I want to do it, too. I want to be able to book it in advance. I can't find anything about the cruise unfortunately! Does anyone know about it and can steer me in the right direction?
Just Google Athens day cruises and several should come up. I have done this with guests several times over the years. Just be aware that you only spend a brief time on each island. As an alternative, we have been recommending to just spend a day or two on Aegina. You can rent mopeds or 4 wheelers and tour the island sites and beaches. By fast ferry it’s only a 40min trip.
 
My mother did a three island cruise that involved Hydra, Poros, and Aegina. She said it was a blast! However, she doesn't actually remember Poros and she said there really wasn't enough time on Hydra to see anything. Aegina, for her, was a highlight. She said if she could do it all again, she'd do one island at a time, starting with Aegina. Something to think about!
 

Fun Side Trips While Staying in Athens

I've been to Athens. I have done side trips from Athens. Still, I love Rick Steve's work and I found this interesting! He visited some of the places I've seen, but frankly, he made me want to see them again. This was a fun watch!

One of the places I haven't been that he mentioned is Hydra. Such a cool-looking place.

Should you come to Athens in the winter?

I have never been to Greece in winter and I was considering it. I found this video - it was very informative! Thought I'd share:

This is what Athens looks like today!!

Athens air unhealthy as my friends informed me!

What I love about visiting Athens

I am planning another trip to Greece and plan to go to Athens. I have been so many times! I thought I would share with you what I love about it.

  • The Acropolis: Standing majestically above the city, the Acropolis is an iconic symbol of ancient Greece. The Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Temple of Athena Nike are awe-inspiring examples of classical architecture.
  • Plaka District: Wandering through the narrow streets of Plaka feels like stepping back in time. This charming neighborhood is filled with neoclassical buildings, quaint cafes, and souvenir shops.
  • Sunset at Lycabettus Hill: Watching the sunset from Lycabettus Hill offers panoramic views of the city and the Aegean Sea. It's a magical experience, especially when accompanied by live music at the hilltop chapel.
  • Monastiraki Flea Market: Bargain hunting at Monastiraki Flea Market is a must-do in Athens. You can find everything from antiques and handmade crafts to clothing and jewelry.
  • Street Art in Exarchia: The Exarchia neighborhood is known for its vibrant street art scene. Exploring its graffiti-covered streets is like visiting an open-air art gallery filled with political statements and creative expressions.
To those of you who have been to Athens, what do you love about it? I am looking for ideas!

athens-greece.jpg

Visiting Mount Lycabettus Question

I have never been to Mount Lycabettus, although I've been to Athens a handful of times - it just never came up to go here.

Here are some questions I have:

A few specific questions I have include:
  • What's the best time of day to visit Mount Lycabettus? Is it good at sunset?
  • Are there any hiking trails that you'd recommend?
  • How difficult is the trek up the hill? Is it suitable for beginners or those not used to hiking?
  • Is the funicular railway worth the ride, or is it better to walk?
  • Are there any facilities (like cafes or restrooms) available at the top or along the way?
  • Do you have any safety tips or things to watch out for?
Thanks in advance!
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