Athens (Piraeus) Cruise Port Guide

Introduction

Athens’ cruise gateway is the bustling Port of Piraeus, one of the busiest passenger ports in Europe. Just 12 km (about 20 minutes by taxi) from the city center, it’s the main arrival point for cruise ships visiting the Greek capital. The port has three cruise terminals (A, B, and C), handling both turnaround cruises and day calls.

For cruise passengers, Piraeus is more than just a starting point—it’s the jumping-off place for iconic sights like the Acropolis, Plaka, and Ancient Agora, as well as a lively port city in its own right.

Transport at a Glance – Piraeus Cruise Port to Athens

Athens Cruise Terminals (Piraeus)

Piraeus has three cruise terminals — A, B, and C — all located within the same port area. Free shuttle buses connect the terminals and take passengers to the port gates and transport links.

Things to Do on a Cruise Stop in Athens

If your ship docks in Piraeus for the day, you’ve got plenty of time to see Athens’ highlights. Whether you only have a few hours or a full day, here are the top picks:

Highlights Near Athens Cruise Port

• 🏛️ Acropolis & Parthenon – The #1 must-see. Go early to avoid heat and crowds.

• 🏘️ Plaka District – Wander cobbled streets, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy a café stop.

• 🏛️ Ancient Agora – Once the heart of public life in Athens, now a fascinating ruin site.

• 🏺 National Archaeological Museum – Greece’s largest collection of antiquities.

Sample Itineraries

Where to Eat & Drink in Plaka

After a few hours of sightseeing, you’ll want to refuel — and luckily Plaka is full of tavernas and bars just a short stroll from the Acropolis. These spots are all within walking distance of Monastiraki Station, making them easy to include in your day ashore:

• 🍴 Karyatis Taverna– A cozy spot tucked into Plaka’s lanes, serving classic Greek dishes with a warm, family-run feel. Perfect for a relaxed lunch after the Acropolis.

• 🍴 Taverna Byzantino – Popular with locals and visitors alike, offering hearty portions and traditional atmosphere. Great for sampling moussaka, souvlaki, or grilled lamb.

• 🍸 Brettos Bar– Athens’ oldest distillery and one of the most photographed bars in the city, thanks to its glowing wall of colorful bottles. Stop in for ouzo, brandy, or a cocktail with a unique Athenian vibe.

Things to Do Near Piraeus Cruise Port

If you’ve already explored Athens or prefer to stay closer to the ship, Piraeus itself has plenty to offer. Within a short taxi ride or even on foot from the port, you’ll find:

• ⛴️ Marina Zeas (Pasalimani) – A scenic yacht harbor lined with cafés and restaurants, perfect for a relaxed drink with a view.

• ⚓ Archaeological Museum of Piraeus – Small but fascinating, with artifacts from local shipwrecks and ancient theatres.

• ⚓ Hellenic Maritime Museum – Exhibits on Greece’s rich naval history, including model ships and wartime relics.

• ⚽ Karaiskakis Stadium – Home to Olympiacos FC, Greece’s most successful football club. Tours available on non-match days.

• 🏖️ Beaches – Votsalakia and Freatida are the nearest, offering a quick dip and a taste of the Athens Riviera vibe without leaving Piraeus.

Sample Day in Piraeus

If you decide to stay near the port, here’s how to spend a relaxed day without heading into central Athens:

• ☕ Morning – Marina Zeas (Pasalimani)
  Start your day with coffee or breakfast at one of the waterfront cafés while watching the yachts come and go.

• 🏛️ Late Morning – Museums
  Visit the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus or the Hellenic Maritime Museum for a cultural fix that’s small-scale but fascinating.

• 🍴 Lunch – Seaside Taverna
  Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the tavernas around the marina. Grilled octopus and calamari are local specialties.

• 🏖️ Afternoon – Beach Time
  Head to Votsalakia or Freatida Beach for a quick dip or a couple of hours of sunbathing before returning to the ship.

• 🍨 Bonus Treat
  Stroll through Piraeus’ side streets for a traditional Greek ice cream or pastry before boarding.

Where to Stay in Athens

Whether you want to dive into Athens’ history before your cruise or stay close to the port for a smooth embarkation, here are some well-located hotels we recommend.

FAQs – Athens (Piraeus) Cruise Port

How far is Piraeus cruise port from the Acropolis?
The port is about 12 km (7.5 miles) from the Acropolis. By taxi it takes around 25–30 minutes, while the metro (Line 1 → Monastiraki, then short walk) takes about 40 minutes.

What’s the best transport option from Piraeus to Athens?
For convenience, take a taxi (fastest, ~€25–30). For budget, the metro (Line 1 Green) is cheap (€1.20) and reliable, with a daily cap of €4.10 on Tap2Ride.

How much is a taxi from Piraeus cruise port to Athens?
A taxi from Piraeus to central Athens costs about €25–30 each way under normal traffic. To Athens Airport, expect around €50–60.

Can you walk from Piraeus cruise port to Athens?
Technically yes, but it’s a 2+ hour walk and not recommended. Use the metro, taxi, or bus instead.

Is there luggage storage at Piraeus cruise port?
Yes — luggage storage services are available near the port gates and terminals, handy if you’re disembarking but not flying until later in the day.

Introduction

Barcelona is Europe’s busiest cruise hub, welcoming millions of passengers every year. The Barcelona cruise port has seven modern terminals, all located just a short distance from the heart of the city. From the port, it’s quick and easy to reach Las Ramblas and the Gothic Quarter—two of Barcelona’s most iconic areas—whether you’re starting your voyage here or visiting as part of an itinerary. This Barcelona cruise port guide covers everything you need to know about the city’s cruise terminals, transport options, and tips for making the most of your time.

Visiting Barcelona on a Cruise Stop

Not everyone embarks or disembarks in Barcelona—many ships call here as part of a wider Mediterranean itinerary. If you’re only in port for the day, you’ll still find it easy to explore some of the city’s highlights.

Getting Off the Ship

Most cruise passengers use the shuttle buses that run from the terminals to the bottom of Las Ramblas, the city’s main pedestrian boulevard. Taxis are also plentiful at the port, and if you prefer public transport, the metro and bus network can get you around quickly and affordably.

Cruise Shuttle Bus to Las Ramblas

The Cruise Bus is a dedicated shuttle service that runs between the cruise terminals at Moll Adossat (Adossat Wharf) and Moll de Barcelona (next to the World Trade Center). The ride takes about five minutes and drops passengers right at the base of Las Ramblas, in the heart of the city.

• Tickets: €3 one-way / €4.50 round trip

• Best for: Cruise passengers in transit who want to explore Barcelona independently, as well as those embarking or disembarking in the city.

• Book online: Cruise Bus Official Site

Tips for Cruise Passengers

• Always leave a buffer of at least 30–45 minutes to return to your ship—the port and city traffic can get busy.

• If your cruise ends in Barcelona but your flight isn’t until later, consider using luggage storage services so you can explore without bags.

Luggage Storage in Barcelona

If your cruise disembarks in Barcelona but your flight isn’t until later in the day, luggage storage can be a lifesaver. One convenient option is Bags&Go, a service that collects your bags right at the port and delivers them directly to Barcelona Airport.

We used them ourselves after an early morning disembarkation on Norwegian Breakaway, and it was incredibly handy—drop your luggage, enjoy the city bag-free, then pick everything up at the airport before your flight.

• Website: bagsandgo.com

• Service: Port pickup and airport delivery

• Best for: Passengers with late flights who want to explore Barcelona without carrying luggage.

Barcelona Cruise Terminals

The Barcelona cruise port has seven terminals spread across two main areas: the World Trade Center pier and the larger Moll Adossat pier. Together, they handle millions of passengers every year, making Barcelona one of the busiest cruise ports in the world. If you’re planning a sailing, knowing which terminal your ship uses will help you plan transfers, luggage drop-off, and check-in smoothly.

World Trade Center (WTC) Terminals

Located right by the city center, next to the Columbus Monument at the bottom of Las Ramblas, the World Trade Center area has two terminals. These are generally used for smaller ships, boutique lines, and ferries. For passengers, this is the most walkable location in the port.

Moll Adossat Terminals (A, B, C, D, E)

The majority of large cruise ships—including those from Royal Caribbean, MSC, Costa, and Norwegian—dock at Moll Adossat. This pier is about 3 km from the city center, so most passengers take the Cruise Bus shuttle or a taxi. The five terminals here (A through E) are modern facilities designed to handle thousands of passengers efficiently.

Terminals N (North) and S (South)

Situated near the World Trade Center area, Terminals N and S are smaller but still welcome a variety of ships, depending on traffic and scheduling. Their central location makes them particularly convenient for passengers who want to explore Barcelona on foot.

New Terminal Info

Barcelona’s cruise facilities are still evolving.

• MSC Terminal H – Opened in February 2025, this brand-new terminal at Moll Adossat is dedicated to MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys. It’s the furthest terminal from the city center, so plan for a taxi or the Cruise Bus shuttle rather than walking.

• Future Changes – The Port of Barcelona has announced plans to reduce the number of cruise terminals from seven to five by 2030. This is part of a long-term strategy to balance tourism growth with sustainability and reduce congestion in the city.

Hotels We’ve Stayed In & Recommend

Barcelona has no shortage of hotels. These picks keep you close to the action without sacrificing comfort. We have stayed in each of the following hotels and can personally recommend them:

Whether you’re staying overnight before embarkation or winding down after a cruise, these picks keep you close to the action without sacrificing comfort.

Exploring Barcelona Pre- or Post-Cruise

Barcelona is one of the best cities in the world to tack on extra days before or after your sailing. With the Barcelona cruise port so close to the city center, you can easily create a one-day itinerary from your cruise ship or plan a few nights to soak it all in.

Top Things to Do Near the Cruise Port

• Las Ramblas & the Gothic Quarter – The port’s closest attractions. Walk the tree-lined boulevard, stop at La Boqueria market, and explore the winding Gothic streets just behind.

• Sagrada Familia – Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece is a must-see, but tickets sell out fast—book ahead.

Tours Suggestions

For those who’d prefer a guided experience, here are some excellent options:

FAQs – Barcelona Cruise Port

How far is Barcelona airport from the cruise port?

Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN) is about 15–18 km (9–11 miles) from the cruise terminals. The drive typically takes 25–35 minutes by taxi, depending on traffic.

How much is a taxi from Barcelona airport to the cruise port?

A taxi from the airport to the cruise terminals usually costs €35–€45. There’s no need to pre-book—taxis are plentiful at both terminals of the airport, and fares are metered.

Can you walk from Barcelona to the cruise port?

It depends on which terminal your ship uses:

• World Trade Center terminals (N & S): Yes, these are just steps from the base of Las Ramblas and easily walkable.

• Moll Adossat terminals (A–E): Technically walkable (around 25–30 minutes), and we’ve seen people do it. But if you’re carrying luggage or not steady on your feet, it’s much easier to take the Cruise Bus shuttle or a taxi.

• MSC Terminal H (Moll Adossat): Opened in 2025, this is the furthest terminal from the city center. It’s not practical to walk — plan on taking the Cruise Bus or a taxi.

Which terminal does Royal Caribbean use in Barcelona?

Royal Caribbean ships almost always dock at Moll Adossat, usually at Terminal B or C. The exact terminal can change depending on port scheduling, so always check your cruise documents before arrival.

Introduction

Cruise ships bound for the Eternal City dock at the Rome cruise port of Civitavecchia, about 50 miles northwest of central Rome. While the port itself has history and charm, most cruisers are here for a day trip to the Colosseum, Vatican, or Trevi Fountain. This guide covers how to get from Civitavecchia cruise port to Rome, highlights in both the city and port area, plus practical tips to make the most of your stop.

🚢 Where Do Cruise Ships Dock?

Cruise ships don’t dock in Rome itself — they dock at Civitavecchia cruise port, a busy harbor on the Tyrrhenian Sea.

• Distance to Rome: ~50 miles (80 km).

• Travel time: about 1 hour by train, slightly less by car/shuttle depending on traffic.

• Tip: If you’re worried about timing, a cruise line excursion guarantees your ship won’t leave without you.

🚉 Getting From Civitavecchia to Rome

• Civitavecchia Express Train – Designed for cruise passengers, this train has guaranteed seating and runs directly to San Pietro and Ostiense stations (perfect for the Vatican or Colosseum).

• Regular Regional Train – Cheaper, more frequent, but can be crowded. Runs to Termini station in central Rome.

• Taxi / Private Transfer – Easiest option but expect to pay €120–€150 each way. Good if traveling as a group.

• Shuttle Buses – Some hotels and tour operators offer pre-booked shuttles directly into Rome.

👉 Pro Tip: Always allow extra time to get back. Trains can be delayed and Italian traffic is unpredictable.

🏟️ Things to Do in Rome on a Cruise Stop

If this is your first visit, focus on the highlights:

• St. Peter’s Basilica & Vatican City – Admire Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s Baldachin, and climb the Dome for panoramic views.

• The Colosseum & Roman Forum – Step into gladiator history and explore the political heart of ancient Rome.

• The Trevi Fountain – Toss a coin: one guarantees your return, two for romance, three for marriage.

• The Pantheon – An architectural marvel with the largest unreinforced dome in the world.

• Piazzas & Fountains – Piazza Navona, Campo de’ Fiori, and countless baroque fountains bring Rome’s energy to life.

🏖️ Things to Do in and Around Civitavecchia

If you’ve already seen Rome or prefer a lighter day:

• Explore Civitavecchia town – The harbor was founded by Emperor Trajan; stroll the seafront and Forte Michelangelo.

• Lago Bracciano – A serene volcanic lake with charming towns like Anguillara Sabazia. Perfect for gelato with a view.

• Castello Orsini-Odescalchi – A fairy-tale castle famous as the site of Tom Cruise’s wedding.

• Local Cuisine – Try pizza al taglio, supplì (fried rice balls), and pasta carbonara in traditional trattorias.

🏨 Hotels Near Civitavecchia Cruise Port

🍝 Practical Tips for Visiting Rome From Civitavecchia

• Dress Code – Cover shoulders/knees and remove hats when entering churches.

• Shoes – Comfortable walking shoes are a must; Rome involves cobblestones and stairs.

• Cash – Always handy, especially for small shops or gelato stands.

• Coffee Etiquette – No cappuccino after noon — switch to espresso if you want to blend in.

• Tipping – Service charge is often included; just round up the bill with coins.

❓ FAQs: Rome Cruise Port

How far is Civitavecchia from Rome?
About 50 miles; allow at least 1 hour travel each way.

What’s the fastest way into Rome?
The Civitavecchia Express train is quick, reliable, and avoids city traffic.

Can I see Rome in one day from a cruise?
Yes, but plan carefully. Pick 2–3 major sites (e.g. Vatican + Colosseum + Trevi) and stick to them.

Are there things to do in Civitavecchia itself?
Yes — the old fort, beaches, and seafood restaurants make for a relaxed port day.