Volos Cruise Port is definitely off the beaten cruise path! Historically only visited by (mostly) Celebrity Cruises, Volos cruise port is starting to appear on NCL’s cruise itineraries in 2025. Volos isn’t your typical Greek cruise port. It’s not touristy. This industrial city offers a glimpse into authentic Greek life, hidden historical gems, and the gateway to adventures amidst stunning nature and ancient myth.
In this guide, let me share the top things to see & do, if you want to do a DIY excursion. Unfortunately, because there isn’t that much to do around Volos, you may want to venture further afield. So I’ll also share attractions, which will typically feature on cruise line run excursions.
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Volos Cruise Port: Is a DIY Excursion Easy? 😎😎😎 Doable but needs Hustle
My DIY Shore Excursion rating for Volos cruise port is 😎😎😎 Doable, but requires flexibility. Some attractions are a stroll from the port, while the truly stunning spots like the Pelion Railway require extra effort. A bit of pre-trip research and willingness to snag a taxi (or join a tour for the further sites) will make your Volos day more rewarding. Alternatively, you can schedule Volos as a “do less” port, or return to the ship early and just chill with a drink by the pool!
Volos (Greece) Cruise Port Essentials: What You Need to Know
Where is Volos cruise port? Volos 382 21, Greece – see this marked on my Volos Cruise Port map below – Volos cruise port is right in the heart of the city, so you can literally walk off the ship into the town centre within a few minutes.
- Official Port Website: Volos cruise port’s official website has its port schedule for download here
- Currency: Euros
- Language: Greek
- Recommended Transport App: Google Maps as it reflects up-to-date bus routes & timetables.
- eSim for roaming in Greece: For a great data connection without the huge roaming fees, use an eSim data pack from Airalo. I always recommend having a smartphone with a valid plan when you’re at port touring independently. Get US$3 off your first eSIM data pack from Airalo when you use ROXANN1666 when you sign up or apply it at checkout
Volos Cruise Port Map
- On Desktop | Laptop? Use buttons on bottom left to zoom in/out. Click on the upper right hand corner to see a bigger version.
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- If map is not loading correctly, click here to see it directly on Google Maps
Volos Cruise Port: Top Things to Do
Volos offers a unique port experience for cruisers. It’s a working industrial city, not a polished tourist resort, so don’t expect dazzling attractions on every corner. However, if you’re looking for a relaxed port day exploring on foot, or up for an adventure to uncover some of Greece’s hidden gems, Volos provides several rewarding options. The Meteora Monasteries, though a few hours away, offer a truly unforgettable experience for those willing to make the journey.
1. Discover Volos’ History & Culture on a DIY Walking Tour
Volos offers a delightful walking experience, with its key attractions within easy reach of the cruise port – everything is marked on my Volos Cruise Port map above
- Start at the Volos Museum of the City (opposite the Volos train station, approximately 15 minutes walk) and delve into the city’s modern history (€2 entry).
- Cross the street to the Railway Museum of Thessaly for a quirky glimpse into railway history with its collection of uniforms, ticket dispensers and clocks (free entry).
- Walk back towards the port, snapping a selfie at the “I love Volos” sign by City Hall.
- Art lovers can check out the Giorgio De Chirico Art Centre, showcasing local artists.
- Continue along the waterfront, and before reaching Saint Konstantinos Park, you’ll encounter the Argo, a replica of the legendary ship. Argo is the ship that Jason and his band of heroes, the Argonauts (which included figures like Hercules, Orpheus, and the sons of Zeus), sailed on their epic quest for the Golden Fleece.
- The National Independence Heroes Monument stands nearby.
- Enjoy a rest in Saint Konstantinos Park. At this point, you may wish to return to port – about 10 minutes walk away. Alternatively, you can continue south.
A short stroll further brings you to Anavros Park and the Athanasakeion Archaeological Museum. Return to your ship by retracing your steps.
2. Beach Day at Anavros Beach
If you just want to enjoy the Greek sunshine, then a day at the beach may be in order! The closest beach to Volos Cruise Port is Anavros Beach, at the southern tip of Anavros Park. If you walk directly from the cruise port along the waterfront, it’s about a 25 minute through the most picturesque part of Volos, with plenty of places to take a rest if you wish, so it’s not as bad as it sounds!
3. All Aboard the Pelion Railway: A Scenic Journey Through Time
Step back in time aboard the Pelion Railway, a charming narrow-gauge train dating back to the late 19th century. This picturesque journey winds through the lush slopes of Mount Pelion, offering stunning views of forests, villages, and the sparkling Pagasetic Gulf. Feel the breeze on vintage open-air balconies as you take in the scenery and the rhythmic sounds of the train.
The Pelion Railway departs from Ano Lechonia, a village just outside Volos. The train leaves at 10:00 and arrives in the picturesque village of Milies at 11:35. Milies, known for its apple trees, offers a delightful lunch stop and a few museums to explore before the return train departs at 15:00, arriving back in Ano Lechonia at 16:30. Return tickets cost €18 for adults and €10 for children 4-12 years. This enchanting train ride makes for a perfect day trip if your cruise schedule allows.
- Timetables: The Pelion Railway runs every day during July and August and only on weekends from mid-April to end October. Double-check train services on Hellenic Train.
- Getting there from Volos cruise port: Take a short walk (approximately one block) from cruise port to “Topálē” stop. Catch Bus #5 to Lechonia where the Ano Lechnonia train station is located across from the bus stop. Bus tickets cost €2 one-way (purchase from the driver).
- Download the official brochure here; it is in bilingual Greek/English format.
4. Walk the Centaur’s Path: In the Footsteps of Legends
Mount Pelion, towering over Volos, was the mythical home of the Centaurs – wild creatures with the torso of a human and the body of a horse. Known for their wisdom and skill in medicine, they were also depicted as unruly and unpredictable. It’s said the wise centaur Chiron, tutor to heroes like Hercules and Achilles, lived on this very mountain.
The Centaur’s Path immerses you in this mystical atmosphere. This scenic walk winds through lush forests and along a stream with little bridges. The return trip is just over 2 miles (~4 km). While the trail is consistently uphill, the slope is gentle. The walk will take about an hour.
How to get there from Volos cruise port: While the Centaur’s Path is a top-rated attraction, reaching it independently can be a challenge. The nearest bus stop is a significant walk from the trailhead, and walking along winding roads without sidewalks isn’t something I’d recommend. If you’re determined to experience this legendary hike, consider renting a car or finding a local taxi driver willing to wait for your return.
5. Meteora Monasteries: A Journey to the Heavens
The Meteora Monasteries, perched atop towering rock formations in central Greece, offer a truly breathtaking and otherworldly experience. These centuries-old monasteries were built by Orthodox monks seeking spiritual isolation and a closer connection to God. The first hermits began inhabiting Meteora’s caves and rock clefts as early as the 9th century, later establishing monastic communities from the 14th century onwards.
Constructing these monasteries atop the sandstone pillars was an incredible feat of human ingenuity. Monks used ropes, ladders, and precarious scaffolding to haul building materials to the summits. At its peak, Meteora boasted over 20 monasteries. Although only six remain active today, they continue to draw visitors from around the world. The combination of dramatic natural beauty, spiritual significance, and the sheer audacity of their construction makes Meteora a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Greece’s most iconic destinations.
Take a Tour: While the Meteora Monasteries are a bit of a trek from Volos (about a two-hour drive each way), their stunning beauty makes them a popular shore excursion choice. Trying to tackle this trip entirely on your own can be tricky, even with a rental car. (This is because monasteries’ opening times vary, so a local guide’s knowledge will save time.) If these incredible monasteries have captured your imagination, consider joining a group tour. This way, you can focus on the breathtaking views and fascinating history instead of worrying about the logistics!
I hope this guide has helped you plan your DIY adventures in Volos. Whether you’re exploring the city’s history and culture, venturing into the mythical realm of centaurs, or taking an unforgettable trip to Meteora, I wish you a wonderful port day. If you found this information helpful, please consider sharing my blog post with your fellow cruisers!
