Coming to Piraeus
Piraeus is located within the region of Attica, on the southwestern coast of Athens. It serves as the primary port of Greece and one of the largest in Europe. Piraeus is approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) away from the center of Athens, making it easily accessible by road and public transport.
As for the Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos, Piraeus is about 45 kilometers (28 miles) away. Depending on traffic, the drive from the airport to Piraeus typically takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour by car or taxi. Public transport options, including the suburban railway and metro, can take a bit longer, usually around 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Flights to Athens are very frequent and come from almost all over the world. Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) is a major hub in Southeastern Europe, and it serves both domestic and international flights. Athens is well-connected to major cities across Europe, the Middle East, North America, and parts of Asia and Africa. Airlines from almost all European countries offer direct flights, as do many from North America (e.g., New York, Toronto), the Middle East (e.g., Dubai, Doha), and Asia (e.g., Beijing, Tokyo). Overall, Athens is accessible from nearly every corner of the globe.
Staying at Piraeus
Piraeus has a good number of hotels, catering to different budgets and preferences. As a major port city and an important transportation hub, Piraeus attracts both tourists and business travellers, especially those heading to the Greek islands or attending conferences.
You can find a range of accommodation options in Piraeus, including luxury hotels with views of the sea or the marina, mid-range hotels offering comfortable stays close to the port, city center, and public transport as well as budget options like smaller hotels and hostels, ideal for travelers in transit or short stays. Most hotels in Piraeus are located near the port, Pasalimani (Zea Marina), and Mikrolimano, as well as around the central areas close to the metro stations and main shopping streets. While Piraeus doesn’t have as many hotel options as central Athens, it still provides enough variety for those looking for convenience near the port or a more local experience.
Participants don’t necessarily have to stay in Piraeus. They can also stay in Athens. For example, it takes about 20 minutes to travel from central Athens to Piraeus by metro, using Line 1 (the Green Line). The metro is a convenient and reliable option for commuting between the two areas, and it runs very frequently (every 2-3 minutes) throughout the day. Additionally, there are bus and taxi services available, offering flexibility for travel. So, staying in Athens can be a practical option while attending a conference in Piraeus.
Weather at Piraeus
At the end of August, Piraeus typically experiences warm and dry weather, characteristic of the Mediterranean climate. Daytime temperatures are usually around 28-32°C (82-90°F), while nighttime temperatures drop to a more comfortable 20-24°C (68-75°F). The air is generally dry with moderate humidity, but it can feel a bit humid due to the coastal location. It’s rare to see rain in late August, as this is part of the dry season in Greece. The sea temperature is perfect for swimming, with the sea temperature around 25-27°C (77-81°F). You might experience light breezes, especially in the afternoons, which can be refreshing near the port and seaside areas. Overall, it’s a great time to enjoy outdoor activities and seaside relaxation!
Visiting the famous islands of the Aegean Sea
Piraeus is the main gateway to the famous islands of the Aegean Sea, offering easy access to both the Saronic Gulf islands and the Cyclades. As Greece’s largest port, it serves millions of passengers each year, connecting them to iconic destinations such as Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, and Naxos. With frequent ferry services, Piraeus plays a crucial role in the transportation network, making it the ideal starting point for exploring the diverse beauty and charm of the Greek islands, from cosmopolitan spots to quiet, picturesque retreats. For example, traveling from Piraeus to the islands of Paros and Santorini by high-speed ferry offers a faster and more convenient option for visitors. The journey to Paros takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, while reaching Santorini takes around 4.5 to 5 hours.
However, from the port of Piraeus, you can visit several nearby islands quickly, making them ideal for short trips. Here are some of the closest islands and the approximate travel times:
- Aegina: Around 40 minutes to 1 hour by regular ferry or 30 minutes by high-speed ferry. Aegina is famous for its pistachios, beautiful beaches, and historical sites like the Temple of Aphaia.
- Agistri: Ferry Time: About 1 hour by high-speed ferry. A small, quiet island known for its crystal-clear waters, ideal for a peaceful getaway.
- Poros: Ferry Time: Around 1 hour by high-speed ferry. Poros offers a charming town, pine-covered hills, and a relaxing atmosphere.
- Hydra: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by high-speed ferry. Hydra is famous for its traditional architecture, lack of cars (donkeys are the main mode of transport), and picturesque harbor.
- Spetses: Around 2 hours by high-speed ferry. Spetses is known for its naval history, elegant mansions, and beautiful beaches. These islands are part of the Saronic Gulf and are very popular for day trips or weekend getaways from Piraeus due to their proximity and beauty.
You may find more information about Greece at https://www.visitgreece.gr/ or at the respective app.
