1 - 5 of 5 Posts

paharo45

Active member
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.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Vangelis
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!
 

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

This is what Athens looks like today!!

Athens air unhealthy as my friends informed me!

Churches to visit for Liturgy in Athens

I'll be in Athens soon, and I would like to go to church! I am trying to find a church that has liturgy that is preferably by my hotel. I am staying in the Plaka.

Do any pop you know if any of these are good?

Monastery of Daphni – The Monastery of Daphni is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just outside of Athens.

Agios Nikolaos Rangavas Church – This church is located in the heart of Athens and is considered one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the city.

Metropolis Cathedral – The Metropolis Cathedral is the largest and most historic church in Athens, with a rich history that dates back over a thousand years.

The Church of the Holy Apostles – This Byzantine church dates back to the 10th century and is considered one of the best-preserved examples of Byzantine architecture in Greece.

St. Irene’s Church – St. Irene’s Church is located in the heart of Athens and is considered one of the oldest Byzantine churches in the city.

Greek Mythology Sites in Athens?

I am visiting Athens and want a feel for where to go that pertains to Greek mythology.Of course, the Acropolis is on my list, but I wish to explore other places related to gods, goddesses, heroes, and their legendary tales as well.

For those of you who have ventured on similar quests or possess knowledge about Greek mythology's physical footprints in Athens, could you recommend:
  1. Must-visit sites that are deeply connected to Greek mythology.
  2. Any lesser-known locations that offer a unique insight into the myths.
  3. Tips for making the most out of these visits (best time to go, how to avoid crowds, etc.).
  4. Any resources (books, guides, websites) that could help deepen my understanding of the myths associated with these sites.
I’m extremely excited about this trip and looking forward to your recommendations and insights! Thanks!

Interesting Museums I Like in Athens

Athens is rich with museums but there are a few I keep visiting when I get the chance. I always learn something new! My favorite is the museum at the Acropolis, which has a lot of information and artifacts from the area. Here's my list:
  1. The Acropolis Museum: Dominating this list is The Acropolis Museum, built to house every artifact found on the sacred rock of the Acropolis, from the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine Greece. A splendid blend of modern and ancient architecture, it holds an incredible array of sculptures and artifacts, including the Caryatids and the Parthenon Frieze.
  2. The National Archaeological Museum: As the largest museum in Greece, this is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts. It boasts an extensive collection of artifacts from ancient Greece, spanning several millennia—pottery, jewelry, sculptures, and the Mask of Agamemnon.
  3. Benaki Museum: Representing various periods throughout Greek history, the Benaki Museum is a private foundation, nestled in the heart of downtown Athens. It offers a comprehensive view of Greek culture from its prehistoric times to the 20th century, with an emphasis on art and everyday objects.
  4. Museum of Cycladic Art: A unique gem in Athens, this museum is home to an exceptional collection of Cycladic art, mostly dating from the Bronze Age. These prehistoric sculptures, with their distinct minimalist aesthetics, are a fascinating window into the ancient Aegean world.
What museums do you like to visit in Athens?
Share and discuss your Athens photos, questions and experiences!

WorldwideGreeks.com is a free online forum community where people can discuss Greek food, travel, traditions, history and mythology.
Join Worldwide Greeks here!

JOIN COMMUNITY FOR FREE

LOGIN TO YOUR ACCOUNT
Back
Top