Mikrolimano is a picturesque marina located in Piraeus, some fifteen kilometers south of Athens. It is renowned for its pleasant setting and excellent fish restaurants with seafront terraces. The picturesque little houses, the sea view, the fishermen and their boats and the smell of fresh fish and seafood give the place a special charm. Mikrolimano, the “little port” of Piraeus: a place to enjoy relaxation and fish restaurants.
Several names for the same place
The port of Mikrolimano has been given several names: Mikrolimano, Fanari, Tourkolimano, port Koumoundourou.
In ancient times, it was known as “Port Mounichia“. It was then given the name Fanari during the Byzantine period, perhaps because there was a lighthouse (fanos) at its entrance. It then took the name Koumoundourou after the homonymous manor house at its southern end, where the Greek Yacht Club now stands. Finally, this small circular bay, built in an amphitheatre shape, was for a time used by the Turkish navy and is thus sometimes known as Tourkolimano (the Turkish port).
Today, this harbor is filled with small fishing boats that supply the surrounding restaurants with their daily catch. The name “Mikrolimano” literally means “little port”.
Fish taverns, luxurious restaurants and lively bars
Every day, and especially at weekends and in the evenings during the summer months, the Mikrolimano marina attracts visitors who want to combine a stroll along the seafront, fresh fish and a lively nightlife.
Traditional fish taverns and chic restaurants line the harbor. Athenians go there for dinner or lunch at weekends. And tourists drop in before catching their boat from the port of Piraeus.
The setting is particularly pleasant, with excellent fresh fish and seafood. The atmosphere is reminiscent of the Greek islands. But beware: in some restaurants, prices can be prohibitive.
Mikrolimano also has many bars. These are sold out on summer evenings, giving the port a festive atmosphere.
Some restaurant ideas
From Michelin-starred restaurants to more modest establishments, the choice is vast in Mikrolimano. You’ll find plenty of places to eat at all price points. Before making your choice, take the time to stroll along the marina.
These include:
- Varoulko Seaside: a Michelin-starred restaurant featuring chef Lefteris Lazarou. Sea and Acropolis views, fine food and excellent wines.
- Taverna Papaioannou: fresh fish and a lovely setting
- Ammos for a “feet in the water” meal
- Jimmy’s Fish, known for its lobster pasta
To extend your walk in Mikrolimano: the Kastella hill
Don’t leave Mikrolimano without first taking a walk on the hill of Kastella (Prophet Elias). Situated 86 meters above sea level, it overlooks Mikrolimano and offers magnificent sea views. It is very pleasant to walk through the narrow streets and steep stairs. Take a stroll through the pretty, pastel-colored neoclassical houses built in the 19th century.th century.
Climb up to the church of Profitis Ilias, at the very top of the hill. The view is very impressive, with the sea and the port of Piraeus on one side and Athens on the other. You can have a drink and lunch on the terrace of the Bowling Center in Piraeus, with its ultra kitsch decor (statue of Atlas, ancient columns…) but unbeatable view and very reasonable prices compared to the taverns of Mikrolimano.
And if you want to discover Piraeus with a private guided tour, you can contact Clement. He can offer you an original tour in English where you will learn a lot about this port city.
How to get to Mikrolimano
- By car or cab: 20-30 minutes from central Athens, sometimes longer depending on traffic. Further information in How to get to Piraeus?
- By bus : take bus no. 40 from central Athens (Syntagma Square) to Mikrolimano. About 1 hour’s drive.
- Metro to Piraeus station (green line 1), then bus no. 915
- Multi-stop tourist buses are another way to get to Piraeus.
- Solebike offers a great electric bike tour from the center of Athens. A beautiful ride.
What to do, where to eat and where to sleep in Piraeus?
To find out more about the Piraeus district, read our articles on tips for sightseeing and good places to eat and stay:
- Piraeus: What to do? Where to eat?
- Find a hotel in Piraeus: our best-of!
- Visit Piraeus near Athens
Laure M.
24 January 2024