Advice on Athens Needed Please

[Ferne]

We have booked an Athens to Istanbul cruise on Oceania in April 2006. We have made our own air arrangements and will have an extra day in Athens. Can anyone recommend the best way to get from hotels in Athens to the port?

 

Does anyone have advice about whether it is best to use the cruise line's pre-cruise package, that includes hotel and transfers, or to make your own arrangements?

 

Does anyone have any particular hotels in Athens to recommend?

 

Thanks.

 

Ferne

[Trixsea]

I would compare the price for both. I can highly recommend the Athens Hilton and then taking a taxi to the pier. The cruiselines tend to charge per person, while the hotels give you a room price. Compare the prices. The taxi from the hotel to the pier should be app. 20 euro. Hope this helps!!

[Ferne]

Thanks so much for your help. Ferne

[Tania]

We took a taxi from the ship to the Athenaeum Intercontinental. Stunning night views of the Acropolis. Included free full breakfast for two (kid never eats anyway) + free shuttle to Syntagma square.

 

In Dec 2000, we did our own transfers. Hotel was $220 for three + 2 x $20-25 taxi rides.

 

Our tablemates did Princess transfers. Price was $459 for three including transfers and a half day Athens tour. Same hotel.

[rdcollis]

Tania,

 

How did you like the Athenaeum Intercontinental? besides the views.

 

We'll be there Sunday.:D

[LHT28]

We found the Hotel Titania very nice ...close to the Plaka and other areas are within walking distance.

[realproperty]

Don't forget Istanbul, worth 2 full days at least and so much more interesting than Athens. Istanbul as anyone who has every been there will attest is an awesome city.

[Ferne]

We only have 2 days in Istanbul. Any suggestions for hotels, transfers or tour guides? Thanks in advance for any advice.

Ferne