Athens - The Journey Begins

Athens - The Journey Begins where a Mediterranean adventure starts among ancient stories, enduring philosophy, and legendary ruins. When we arrived on August 11 for our pre-cruise stay before boarding Azamara Pursuit, we knew we were setting the tone for a trip that blended culture, relaxation, and that unique sense of wonder you only find in Greece. What we didn’t realize was just how perfect this Athens stopover would be.

Arriving in Athens – The Gateway to the Mediterranean

The moment the wheels touched down at Athens International Airport, we could feel that unmistakable excitement that comes with being back in the Mediterranean. Athens carries a rhythm all its own - a mix of ancient stone, modern elegance, and countless cafés humming with life and disembarking on the tarmac is always an experieince.

We checked into Electra Palace Athens, one of the city’s most beautiful and conveniently located hotels. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted with classic décor, warm tones, and an atmosphere that immediately encourages you to slow down and savor your surroundings. Our room was spacious and bright, with a wonderful view of the iconic Acropolis just beyond.

This hotel became our sanctuary - the perfect place to unwind before beginning our Azamara cruise. And if there’s one tip worth repeating, it’s this: giving yourself a pre-cruise night or 2 in Athens makes all the difference. You feel refreshed, grounded, and ready to step into your Mediterranean adventure with ease.

Wandering the Streets of Athens

Once we dropped our bags, we went straight out to explore. Athens is a city best enjoyed on foot, and walking through its neighborhoods is like strolling through a living timeline. Narrow winding streets, cafés overflowing onto sidewalks, and the steady hum of everyday Greek life create such a warm welcome.

We made our way toward the Acropolis - not necessarily to climb it that moment, but simply to be near it. And that’s when we found one of those perfect, serendipitous travel moments: enjoying a cold beer on the steps leading toward the Acropolis.

There was something almost poetic about sitting there, feeling the warm August sun, watching locals and travelers drift by. The Acropolis rose above us - ancient, strong, and impossible to ignore - reminding us why Athens is one of the most iconic cities in the Mediterranean. It’s not just the history you see with your eyes; it’s the feeling it stirs in your soul.

These are the moments Azamara travelers understand well - those simple, unplanned experiences that linger long after the trip ends.

Dinner at Παλαιά Ιθάκη (Old Ithaki Restaurant)

That evening, our Athens experience deepened through its cuisine. We had reservations at Παλαιά Ιθάκη (Old Ithaki Restaurant), a traditional gem tucked away from the more touristy areas. From the moment we walked in, we were enveloped in the warmth and hospitality that Greece is famous for.

The aroma of grilled seafood, fresh herbs, and warm bread drifted from the kitchen, and the menu was everything Mediterranean cuisine should be - simple, flavorful, and steeped in tradition. Each dish tasted as if it had been prepared with equal parts passion and heritage.

We lingered over our meal, enjoying a carafe of local wine, talking about the cruise ahead, and appreciating how beautifully Athens bridges ancient history with modern charm. This dinner wasn’t just a meal - it was part of the experience of being in Athens, and it set the tone for everything the Mediterranean has to offer.

Rooftop Magic at Electra Palace

With full hearts and full stomachs, we made our way back to the hotel for what turned out to be the most unforgettable moment of the night: a rooftop swim overlooking the Acropolis.

The pool at Electra Palace Athens sits high above the city, offering one of the most spectacular nighttime views you could ask for. The Acropolis glowed golden against the dark sky, and the warm lights of the city sparkled below.

We slipped into the water and floated, looking up at this ancient masterpiece. It was peaceful, surreal, and in its own way - sacred. That rooftop swim became a core memory from our time in Athens, and a reminder of why a pre-cruise stay is worth every minute.

The Perfect Start to Our Azamara Pursuit Cruise

Our short time in Athens wasn’t just a stopover - it was the perfect prelude to our sailing on Azamara Pursuit. Azamara is known for its immersive Mediterranean itineraries, longer port days, and their boutique luxury that gives travelers the feeling of stepping into a world where every detail has been carefully considered.

And Athens fit that same vibe. It helped us slow down, connect with the culture, and transition gently into vacation mode. It felt like Athens itself was welcoming us to the Mediterranean.

The next morning, as we headed to the port to board Azamara Pursuit, we felt refreshed, excited, and already deeply connected to Greece. Athens had wrapped us in its charm and sent us off to sea in the best way possible.  

🌟 Travel Advisor Tip

If you're planning a Mediterranean cruise with Azamara, consider arriving in Athens at least one day early. Electra Palace Athens offers incredible views, exceptional comfort, and a rooftop pool that turns an overnight stay into an experience. And make time for a local meal at Old Ithaki Restaurant – it’s a wonderful introduction to authentic Greek flavors. The staff throughout Athens, just like on Azamara, are warm, friendly, and love to connect through conversation. These small interactions make the journey even more memorable.