Captb93

Our cruise ship will be docked in Pireas overnight & we would like to take the Metro into Athens, if possible. How far from the dock is the Metro Station? Does anyone have any experience with the Metro? Is this the preferred means of transportation into Athens? Any suggestions or comments would be appreciated. <BR> <BR>

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April

We took the train from Piraeus to the Plaka. It was quick and much cheaper (and less aggravating) than a taxi. We just headed out the driveway and walked diagonally left across the parking lot. I hope you have wheeled luggage. <BR> <BR>The building is across the street on a corner, not well marked. Go down the stairs and buy your tickets at the machine. I don't know if there's any other way of getting tickets, so you'll probably have to have Greek coins. <BR> <BR>The passengers on board were helpful in making sure we got off at the right stop.

Art

If by the Metro you mean a subway, I didn't see one when I was there 2 years ago. There are many busses and trams and I did use them. They are a good way of getting around. The traffic is horrendus. <BR>

April

It's only partially underground.

Captb93

Thanks everyone for the info. One more question: Is there a Metro stop near the Acropolis/Plaka?

Walter

Captb93: You'd probably want the Monastirakio stop and then make a circle around the Acropolis. Either thru the Agora to the Acropolis to the Plaka and back to that Metro stop or in reverse. Pick-up a "Streetwise Athens" map before you leave, it also has Piraeus and the Metro stop locations www.streetwisemaps.com also in major bookshops worldwide I believe (in the US Barnes & Noble and Borders) HTH Regards, Walter <BR>

April

Yes, I believe it's the Monastiraki stop. Better ask someone on the train to be sure. If you're up for a good walk, you can hike right up to the top of the Acropolis. It's best to do this early in the day before the crowds and the heat. Wear shoes with good tread. You can go up either way - to the left or to the right. The simplest way would be to walk up the hill and turn right onto the slippery-smooth, old road. There are nice views and a roadside restaurant (with a washroom). <BR> <BR>The Plaka side of the hill is also nice to wander even in the evening. There are several restaurants on the slope. By the way, we never felt unsafe at any time of day or night. Just watch out for the scooters and the uneven sidewalks! <BR> <BR>Anafiotika is a fascinating area if you have time to visit. <BR> <BR>From the Plaka it is not too far of a walk to the Parliament Building and National Garden near Syntagma Square.