7 nights from Bari (Italy) with MSC Opera

Santorini

Il Pireo

Piraeus is the gateway to Greece

Piraeus, located almost 12 kilometers from Athens, is the main port of Greece and one of the most important ports in the Mediterranean. This port city, with its long history and its strategic position, represents the gateway for those who want to explore the wonders of both antique and modern Greece.

When visit Piraeus: Climate and Seasonality

Pireo has a Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers and mild winters. The best time to visit the city is undoubtedly spring and autumn when temperatures are pleasant and days are sunny. In summer, Piraeusoffer numerous open-air activities, such as walks along the coast and visits archaeological sites, while in winter it is possible to enjoy a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere.

Must-see attractions in Piraeus

Piraeus boasts a rich history and numerous must-see attractions. These include the Archaeological Museum, which houses an extraordinary collection of artefacts from all over Greece, and the Temple of Poseidon, an impressive archaeological site overlooking the sea. Cruise passengers should not miss a visit to the Naval Museum, which tells the maritime history of Greece, and a stroll along the Promenade, the waterfront promenade that offers a splendid view of the Acropolis of Athens. Furthermore, Piraeus is an excellent starting point for excursions to Athens and the surrounding Greek islands.

Local cuisine and typical products of Piraeus

The cuisine of the Piraeus is strongly influenced by its maritime vocation, with its wide selection of fish and seafood. Among local dishes emerge the Psarosoupa, a soup made of fish, and the Garides Saganaki, Greek-style prawns. Furthermore, do not miss specialities of Greek cuisine such as the Moussaka, the Dolmades and the Tzatziki. Cruise passengers can also taste renowned Greek wines and buy local handicrafts such as ceramics, textiles and jewellery.

Discover the best of Greece on board a cruise from Piraeus

Piraeus represents an ideal starting point for a cruise to discover the wonders of Greece and the eastern Mediterranean. Embarking on board of a cruise that depart from Piraeus means having the opportunity to visit iconic destinations such as Greek Islands, Cyprus and Israel, admiring breathtaking landscapes, exploring archaeological sites and living unique cultural experiences at every stops of your holiday. If you decide to sail for Cicladi, the Ionian Islands or Turkey, a cruise from Piraeus will offer you unforgettable memories and you will discover the best of Greece and Mediterranean.

Katakolon

Korfu

Cefalonia

Bari

Bari is one of the most flourishing cities in southern Italy renowned for its important historic centre, once enterly sorrounded by walls. Some of them are still visible and inside them you can visit churches, several theatres and numerous medieval palaces connected by narrow and picturesque streets. Located between two provinces, Brindisi and Foggia, is the third most populous city for number of inhabitants in southern Italy after Naples and Palermo. The relics of St Nicholas, the city's patron saint, are kept in Bari, making its church an important Orthodox centre.

The conformation of the city resembles that of an eagle, whose head is represented by Bari Vecchia, the oldest part of the city. We suggest to you to visit Bari especially in spring and autumn, when the climate is milder and rainfall is scarce. In Bari there are many monuments to visit to those who decide to embark from its port and perhaps take a tour of the city. Don't miss the Cathedral of San Sabino, palazzo de Gemmis and in the center of the Murat district palazzo Mincuzzi, rich in Art Nouveau decorations.

If your ship allows you a long stopover and you are a nature lover, don't miss the Alta Murgia nature park or the Gargano park about 2 hours away from the city. In Bari, the main city park is the 2 Giugno park, with a rich and cool pine forest where you can relax and perhaps have a snack of the classic zeppole. For lunch, we recommend a dish of the famous Apulian orecchiette, Bari's cuisine is rich in traditional agricultural products such as extra virgin olive oil, wheat and tomatoes. Friselle, panzerotti, taralli and fried polenta are very famous. Also of great importance at the table is fresh fish, from gilthead bream alla San Nicola to meatball casserole.