Welcome to Athens! Getting from the airport to the city offers numerous options, from cost-effective public transport to comfortable private transfers. This guide will help you navigate the possibilities so you can start your stay in Greece as smoothly as possible.
Official taxis are easily found at the airport exits, look for the appropriate signs. Taxis are usually yellow. It is important to check with the driver that they are using a taximeter before getting in the taxi. The estimated cost to the city center (Plaka, Monastiraki) is between 40-60 EUR, depending on traffic and the exact destination. It is advisable to discuss the estimated cost with the driver before starting the ride.
A private transfer can be pre-booked, which can be especially useful if you are traveling with a large group or have a lot of luggage. Most providers will meet you in the arrivals hall of the airport with a sign displaying your name. Agree on the meeting point when making your reservation. The price of a private transfer is usually between 50-80 EUR, depending on the type of vehicle and the distance. When booking, check if the price includes any waiting time if your flight is delayed.
Shared transfers and minibuses are a cost-effective solution, especially for those traveling alone or in smaller groups. These services transport multiple passengers, so there may be several stops along the route. The cost is usually between 20-35 EUR, but the duration may be longer than by taxi or private transfer. Agree on the schedule and stops with the provider.
Athens International Airport is well connected to the city's public transport network. The metro (line 3, blue line) goes directly to Syntagma Square, the journey time is about 40-50 minutes, and the ticket price is 9 EUR. Buses are also frequent and reach many destinations, but the journey time may vary depending on traffic. The train is also available, but not as frequent as the metro or bus.
The duration and cost of getting to the city depend on several factors, including traffic, time of day, and the chosen mode of transport. During peak hours (between 7-9 am and 5-7 pm) traffic can significantly slow down transport. Getting from the airport to central Athens (Plaka, Monastiraki) usually takes 30-60 minutes.
| Mode of Transport | Duration (approx.) | Price (EUR, approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 30-60 minutes | 40-60 |
| Private Transfer | 30-45 minutes | 50-80 |
| Shared Transfer | 45-75 minutes | 20-35 |
| Metro | 40-50 minutes | 9 |
| Bus | 60-90 minutes | 5-10 |
The above times and prices are indicative and may vary depending on traffic and the season.
From the airport, you can easily reach the following cities: Athens city center, Piraeus port, Glyfada, Vouliagmeni and parts of the Peloponnese.
Official taxis are located at the airport exits, look for the appropriate signs.
The estimated cost is between 40-60 EUR, depending on traffic and the exact destination.
A private transfer can be pre-booked, the driver will meet you in the arrivals hall with a sign displaying your name.
A shared transfer is a cost-effective solution where multiple passengers are transported, so there may be several stops along the route.
A metro ticket costs 9 EUR.
If you want to get to the city quickly and comfortably, or if you have a lot of luggage, a taxi or private transfer is the best choice.
If you are looking for a cost-effective solution and are not in a hurry, public transport may be a good choice.
Traffic, time of day and the chosen mode of transport affect the duration of getting to the city.
Numerous online providers offer private transfers, it is advisable to book in advance.
Check that the taximeter is switched on, and you can discuss the estimated cost with the driver before starting the ride.
You can find information about bus schedules at the airport information desks or online.