Cruise Ports in Greece: Guide to Every Greece Cruise Port
Now Go See It is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Greece, with its stunning islands and rich history, is a prime destination for cruise lines such as Carnival, Virgin, Royal Caribbean, and MSC Cruises. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the major and minor cruise ports in Greece, highlighting the top things to see at each port.
Greek Cruise Ports: (Jump To)
Athens Cruise Port (Port of Piraeus, Greece)
From the Athens cruise port at the Port of Piraeus, it’s easy to reach the Acropolis of Athens, the Parthenon, and the Plaka District with quick metro or taxi links. Plan your DIY day around the National Archaeological Museum and a walk through central Athens so you’re back to the cruise terminal on time.
Athens is the largest city in Greece and one of the most popular places to start or finish a cruise in Europe. It’s also a popular port for visitors wanting to see the city’s famous sights.
Read our full guide to visiting: Cruise Port Piraeus: Athens Cruise Port on Your Own
Top Things to See at the Athens Cruise Port:
Acropolis of Athens: A must-see UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient temples and the Parthenon.
Plaka District: A charming neighborhood with narrow streets, shops, and traditional Greek tavernas. Read more about Paka with our Plaka Neighborhood Guide.
National Archaeological Museum: Home to some of the most important artifacts from Greek antiquity.
Cruise Port Santorini (Port of Thira, Greece)
The Santorini cruise port at Thira connects to the cliffs by the Santorini cable car, putting Oia’s blue domes and caldera views within easy reach. Combine Oia with the Akrotiri Archaeological Site and a photo stop at Red Beach for a classic one-day Santorini itinerary.
Santorini is among the most well-known of the Greek Islands. Arriving at the stunning water-filled volcanic caldera will leave you awestruck. Climbing the steep cliff walls by foot, donkey, or cable car is an event in its own.
Read our full guide to Cruise Port Santorini.
Top Things to See at Cruise Port Santorini:
Oia Village: Famous for its stunning sunsets, white-washed buildings, and blue-domed churches.
Akrotiri Archaeological Site: An ancient Minoan city preserved by volcanic ash. (reachable by taxi or cruise excursion).
Red Beach: Unique beach with red volcanic sand and striking cliffs.
Cruise Ship Port Mykonos, Greece
From the Mykonos cruise port, head straight to Little Venice and the Mykonos windmills for iconic Cyclades scenery and photos. Add a Delos Island excursion for UNESCO archaeology, then return to Mykonos Town’s narrow lanes for shopping and waterfront cafes.
The glorious and famous cruise ship port of Mykonos is on many people’s travel bucket lists. The stark white painted buildings, narrow pedestrian streets lined with shops and restaurants, and iconic windmills top the list of the best things to see in Mykonos.
Read our full guide to One Day in Mykonos From a Cruise Ship.
Best Things to See in Mykonos:
Little Venice: A picturesque waterfront area with charming houses and restaurants.
Windmills: Iconic windmills offering great photo opportunities.
Narrow Lanes: Wander through narrow streets filled with boutique shops and cafes.
Delos Island: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with extensive archaeological remains, perfect for a shore excursion.
Crete Cruise Port (Port of Heraklion)
Heraklion cruise port is the launch point for Knossos Palace and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, the essential Minoan history pair. If you want coast time, cap the day with a quick swim at Ammoudara Beach before returning to the ship.
One of two main ports of Crete, Heraklion gives access to the wonders of the lives of the ancient Minoan people. The Stunning Knossos palace and related museums are a must for history buffs. Or if relaxing is your thing the nearby beaches offer miles of sandy shore.
Things To See in The Port of Heraklion:
Knossos Palace: The largest Bronze Age archaeological site and Europe's oldest city.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum: Houses artifacts from the Minoan civilization.
Beaches: Ammoudara Beach and Karteros Beach are nearby for an authentic day of sunbathing or swimming in the Sea of Crete.
Crete Cruise Port (Port of Chania)
Chania cruise calls arrive via Souda Bay with fast access to the Old Venetian Harbor and the colorful Old Town. Travelers with extra time can add the Chania Archaeological Museum or a seasonal hike in Samaria Gorge for big island views.
The second major cruise port of Crete, Greece is the Port of Chania. As you arrive at the Venetian-built harbor from the 1300s you’re quickly transported to another time. The adjacent old town will fill all your shopping and wandering needs. If you’re looking to enjoy the rugged landscapes there are plenty of nearby nature and hiking opportunities.
Things To See in The Port of Chania:
Old Venetian Harbor: A picturesque harbor built in the 1300s with waterfront restaurants and shops.
Old Town: Wander through the charming streets of the Old Town searching for local Cretan cuisine and the perfect souvenir.
Chania Archaeological Museum: Displays artifacts from the Minoan to Roman periods.
Samaria Gorge: A popular hiking destination with stunning scenery, perfect for a shore excursion.
Rhodes Cruise Port
The Rhodes cruise port sits beside the Medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site anchored by the Palace of the Grand Master. With a half-day, include the Lindos Acropolis for sweeping Aegean views and ancient ruins.
A visit to the cruise port of Rhodes, Greece is a chance to step back in time with one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. You’ll have the chance to visit historical sites and learn about the Knights of St. John. Or, if you prefer, spend the day relaxing on beautiful beaches and swimming in crystal-clear waters.
What To See at The Rhodes Cruise Port:
Medieval Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with cobblestone streets and historic buildings.
Palace of the Grand Master: A castle converted into a museum showcasing medieval artifacts.
Lindos Acropolis: Ancient ruins with spectacular views over the Aegean Sea.
Corfu Cruise Port
Corfu cruise port days pair the UNESCO Old Town—plus the Old Fortress and New Fortress—with relaxed shopping and cafes. Many visitors combine Achilleion Palace in the hills with a swim at Paleokastritsa Beach for clear water and coastal scenery.
A visit to the cruise ship port of Corfu, Greece will deliver some of the best (and most affordable) shopping on any Greek island. A pair of historic fortresses tower of the city begging to be explored. You can also enjoy one of the largest city squares in Europe, beautiful beaches, and a historic palace.
Best Things To See at The Corfu Cruise Port:
Old Town of Corfu: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with Venetian architecture and narrow streets including the Old Fortress and the New Fortress.
Achilleion Palace: A palace built for Empress Elisabeth of Austria with beautiful gardens.
Paleokastritsa Beach: A cab ride or excursion to the opposite shore will let you enjoy this beach, known for its clear waters and scenic beauty.
Cruise Port Katakolon (Port of Olympia, Greece)
Katakolon cruise port is the gateway to Ancient Olympia and the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, an easy shore excursion focused on the birthplace of the Olympic Games. If you stay local, Skafidia Beach offers a sandy, low-stress option close to port.
The cruise port of Katakolon, Greece is your jumping-off point for a visit to the historic city of Ancient Olympia, home to the original Olympic Games. Or choose to stay closer with a visit to a sandy beach surrounded by lush greenery.
Read our full guide to Ancient Olympia From Cruise Port Katakolon, Greece.
What To Do at The Port of Katakolon, Greece:
Ancient Olympia: The birthplace of the Olympic Games and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Archaeological Museum of Olympia: Displays artifacts from the ancient site.
Skafidia Beach: A nearby beach perfect for a relaxing day.
Port of Thessaloniki, Greece
Thessaloniki cruise port puts you near the White Tower, the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, and waterfront promenades. Add Ano Poli for panoramic city views, preserved walls, and traditional houses, then finish with time on Thessaloniki beaches along the Thermaic Gulf.
The Cruise ship port of Thessaloniki, Greece is located in northern Greece. The port is filled with Macedonian history with plenty to explore for visitors interested in the rich culture and history. Visiting the Thessaloniki beaches is also a popular activity with numerous options lining the Thermaic Gulf.
What to See at the Port of Thessaloniki:
White Tower: The city's symbol and a museum with panoramic views.
Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki: Showcases Macedonian artifacts.
Ano Poli (Upper Town): Offers traditional houses and stunning views over the city plus ancient city walls and the Acropolis of Thessaloniki.
Beaches: Numerous beaches line the gulf with vibes from lively and hip to calm and relaxing.
We share credit card points and miles tips and tricks. These tools help us save money on our trips around the world by allowing us to accumulate airline and hotel points.
