Where you can sail from Athens

Athens is the launchpad for the Greek Isles with easy add-ons into the Adriatic on longer routes.

• Greek Isles classics like Mykonos and Santorini on many sailings.
• Turkey touches such as Bodrum on select itineraries.
• Adriatic icons like Dubrovnik, Split, and Kotor on longer sailings.
• Albania and Ionian stops such as Sarandë and Corfu on certain routes.
• More time ashore with port-heavy weeks and late stays depending on itinerary.

Choose the right Athens sailing

If you want to pick fast, use this simple filter logic.

• Pure Greek Isles: aim for 7 - 9 nights.
• Greek Isles plus Adriatic: look for 10 - 14 night routes.
• Best value: compare multiple dates and do not fixate on one week.
• Want help choosing: send your month, budget, and cabin style and we will shortlist options.

Why sail from Athens

Athens gives you maximum Greek Isles access with easy flights, great hotels, and a proper pre-cruise city break.

• Perfect for combining islands with a couple of nights in a major capital city.
• Great sailing patterns for Mykonos, Santorini, Corfu, and beyond.
• Easy to extend your trip before or after the cruise.
• Athens departures are ideal if you want iconic ports with minimal fuss.

Many sailors arrive a day early to make embarkation calm and add a little Athens magic.

Athens before you sail

If you have even half a day, Athens delivers culture, views, and food without needing a big plan.

• Acropolis and the Parthenon, then a late lunch in Plaka.
• Monastiraki markets for a wander and a quick souvenir hunt.
• Sunset from Lycabettus Hill for the full postcard moment.
• Eat like a local: souvlaki, mezze, and strong coffee with attitude.

One night pre-cruise is the easiest upgrade you can make to your whole week.

Short on time? Pre-book popular experiences to avoid queues and make the most of your stop.

Browse Athens tours

Which port in Athens

Most sailings use Piraeus, the main cruise port for Athens.

• Your embarkation details and arrival time will be shown in the Virgin Voyages app.
• Do not arrive too early. Waiting space can be limited depending on the terminal area.
• If you arrive early, drop bags if available, then head back to the city for a final wander.
• We will help you plan the timing so you are not stuck standing around with luggage.

Getting to the port

Keep it simple on embarkation day. Athens is easy when you choose the straightforward option.

• From central Athens: taxi is usually the simplest choice with luggage.
• From the airport: allow extra time and consider a taxi or pre-booked transfer.
• Metro: useful as a backup, but less fun with suitcases.
• Best tip: stay in Athens the night before and start the day calm.

Need a reliable transfer? We recommend pre-booking with trusted drivers for peace of mind.

Book transfer

Where to stay in Athens

For a short pre-cruise stay, pick an area that keeps you close to the sights and easy for port day.

• Plaka: classic, walkable, and right in the heart of Athens.
• Syntagma: central, convenient, and simple for transport.
• Monastiraki: lively, great food, and easy sightseeing.
• Koukaki: relaxed local vibe, excellent value, and still close to everything.

Staying overnight? Choose a hotel near Piraeus for an easy embarkation day.

View Athens hotels

First-timer tips

If this is your first Virgin sailing, these tips save you time and stress.

• Use the Virgin Voyages app for check-in, dining, and Shore Things.
• Book dining as soon as it opens for your sailing, especially for the popular spots.
• Bring a small day bag for embarkation day essentials.
• New to Virgin Voyages? Tell us your dates and budget and we will help you get the best value from the current offers.