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After sailing into the cruise port for Athens at Piraeus, the largest port in Europe, all the classical wonders of Athens will be yours to explore. The big attraction here is the Acropolis, an unparalleled pairing of wonders man-made and natural. This breathtaking hill dominated and defined the city of Athens long before “skyline” was even a word. It is laced with architectural treasures, the Parthenon being the most famous.

As part of the large-scale remodeling that took place in preparation for the 2004 Olympics, 400 modern structures were razed at the ancient Agora, the public meeting place adjacent to the Acropolis. The two sites were linked by new walkways following a historical restoration. Paths also lead to Plato’s Academy, the Monastery of Daphne and Hadrian’s Arch.

Some of the many other important sites close by are the Roman-era Tower of the Winds, and the Hill of the Muses, where Socrates allegedly drank up his death sentence of hemlock. Also not to be missed is the 3,000-year-old Plaka, a district at the foot of the Acropolis where you can grab a spanakopita, drink wine or ouzo, shop (haggling is the name of the game), or just sit back and people-watch.

Language: Greek     Currency: Euro (EUR)