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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.
 
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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!
 

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:

Taking the Ferry to Mykonos?

I am planning a trip for Greece next year to Greece. I usually fly into Athens and then fly into a place like Santorini or Mykonos from there.

I plan to go to Mykonos next summer and I am kind of sick of flying.

Is the ferry situation easy from Piraeus? Is this a better option than airplanes?

Someone told me I could wait until the last minute and buy the tickets that day, but I am not sure I feel comfortable with that...

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?

My Favorite Things to Do in Athens

Athens is one of my favorite places to visit! It's so rich in history, culture, and even has a spirit of adventure. What I find most impressive are the ruins, museums, and other attractions. I thought I'd give list of my favorite places. What are your favorite places?

History

If you’re visiting Athens with history in mind, then it’s definitely worth exploring some of the most iconic landmarks such as The Acropolis – home to three remarkable buildings – the Parthenon temple dedicated to goddess Athena; Erechtheion shrine dedicated to god Poseidon; Temple of Athena Nike; Odeon Of Herodes Atticus theater known for its amazing acoustics; Ancient Agora – a large public square where people would mingle with traders and philosophers like Socrates who delivered his famous orations here; Stoa Poikile painted colonnade decorated by Polygnotos’ frescoes (5th century BC); Roman Forum with temples like Tower Of The Wind that originally served as an astronomical observatory.

Art

For art lovers looking for something more contemporary there are plenty of museums worth visiting such as National Archeological Museum which displays artifacts from all periods up to late antiquity era including treasures found during excavations at Delphi Oracle or Benaki Museum that houses more than 30 thousand Greek works from Byzantine period through modern era. If you have time make sure you check out Onassis Cultural Center which stages theatrical productions , concerts , exhibitions and workshops all year round . And don't forget Cycladic Art Museum founded by renowned sculptor Nicholas Tombazi displaying collections from Cycladic islands located near Athens (Aegina, Paros etc).

Food

Foodies will find Athens very appealing since it is one of Mediterranean's most vibrant cities when it comes to culinary scene aside from having traditional Greek staples such as Gyro souvlaki & Mousaka there are also amazing lobster restaurants located by sea overlooking Piraeus Harbor making sure locals can enjoy fresh seafood even during harsh winter season . Additionally Athenian street food vendors serve excellent dishes made on spot bound keep your energy levels up while walking around exploring various sites .

Leisure

Not only can visitors experience traditional greek hospitality but they also get pleasure out taking part in leisurely activities ranging anywhere between dancing at cultural festivals held throughout summer season (Athens Festival - June-July ; International Dance Festival - September) going go-karting racing at brand new tracks opening annually outside city limits or relaxing on surfing school courses ideal for beginner surfers starting their journey into discovering this extreme sport(Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre being operator).

What do you like to do in Athens?

Athens Nightlife Questions

I'm currently planning a trip to Athens, Greece, and I've heard so much about the nightlife there. I know that there is great nightlife here, I've just never done it.

Given the vast array of options, I'm reaching out to this community for personal recommendations and insights. What are your favorite nightlife spots in Athens? I'm interested in hearing about places that offer unique experiences, whether it's a bar, club, etc.

If you've had an unforgettable night out in Athens, please share:
  • Name of the place
  • What makes it stand out (music, drinks, crowd, view, etc.)
  • Any tips for newcomers (like dress code)
Also, if there are any must-know cultural etiquettes or tips for enjoying Athens' nightlife responsibly, I'd appreciate learning about those as well.

Thanks in advance for sharing your experiences!
Share and discuss your Athens photos, questions and experiences!

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