Five Hours Layover in Athens - Piraeus?

You have just landed at Athens International Airport or disembarked from a cruise liner in the Port of Piraeus and have a few hours before continuing your journey. Here are some tips and suggestions on how to get a quick taste of our city. Mind your watch, because you might get carried away!

LAYOVER AT ATHENS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT?  You have a few hours in Athens before the next leg of your journey. Don’t fret. Business or pleasure, this extra travel time can be a great opportunity to add an extra element to your trip. Here are some tips and suggestions:

1. Stay right where you are. Award-winning Athens International Airport (AIA) is consistently recognized for the services it offers its travellers. Take the time to explore its terminal shopping, including famous brands such as Hugo Boss, Armani Jeans, Juicy Couture, Burberry and many others. How about a snazzy new hair cut or wash and style at the salon? If you are traveling with kids check out AIA’s Creative Entertainment Area. The Business Centre offers you an office to catch up on email and proposals.
2. Go for a quick wine tasting in nearby Wine County. You may not realize it, but Athens International Airport happens to be located in an area that boasts some of Attica’s leading wineries such as Domaine Vassiliou (www.vassilioudomaine.gr) and Winery A. Megapanos (www.megapanos.gr). Most are open to the public daily by prior appointment.
3. Relax with a massage or a quick dip in the pool. The hotels in the area can provide a quick escape before your next flight.
4. Go for a quick ride to the Historic Centre. Pop into the new Acropolis museum, take a walk or grab a quick bite in Plaka, at the foot of the Acropolis. You probably won’t have time to do both, but for a real treat -- and time permitting -- take the metro to the centre (or reserve a taxi in advance). The 45-minute ride to the Acropolis station will be worth it.
5. Take a taxi to a nearby beach. Need a change of atmosphere before your next flight? If time permits, a taxi can get you to nearby beaches in approximately 20 minutes. Even if you don’t have your swimming suite, it’s likely that you can enjoy a bit of ouzo and meze seaside.

LAYOVER IN PIRAEUS? Your cruise line has docked in Piraeus for a few hours. No need to wait at the port when a vibrant city awaits just outside. Here are some tips and suggestions on what to do:

1. Enjoy fresh fish. You are in fisherman headquarters. Life in Piraeus revolves around three main ports. You are now in the main commercial port lined with tourist shops, cafes, shipping companies, etc. Take a taxi to the more picturesque Microlimano or Marina Zeas. This is seafood lovers’ paradise with fresh fish to be enjoyed harbourside.
2. Learn about Greek maritime. Aristotle Onassis may have made Greek shipping famous, but the maritime tradition in Greece dates back to ancient times. These two museums provide insight to our rich seafaring heritage: The Hellenic Maritime Museum, Archaeological Museum of Piraeus.
3. Go for a quick ride to the Historic Centre. Pop into the new Acropolis museum, take a walk or grab a quick bite in Plaka, at the foot of the Acropolis. You probably won’t have time to do both, but for a real treat -- and time permitting -- take the metro to the centre (or reserve a taxi in advance). The 45-minute ride to the Acropolis station will be worth it.