How to Get Around Athens in 2024: Athens, Greece Transit Guide

Welcome to the Athens Public Transit System

Exploring Athens, the historical capital of Greece is convenient and efficient thanks to its comprehensive public transportation network.

This guide is designed to help you easily navigate various transport options, ensuring you can enjoy the vibrant city and its attractions fully.

Understanding Public Transport in Athens

In Athens, Greece, two main organizations manage an extensive network that includes buses, trolleys, and the metro system city’s transit systems: OASA (Οργανισμός Αστικών Συγκοινωνιών Αθηνών) and STASY (Σταθερές Συγκοινωνίες).

OASA (Οργανισμός Αστικών Συγκοινωνιών Αθηνών – Athens Urban Transport Organisation): OASA is responsible for the operation, planning, and development of the public bus and trolleybus (electric bus) services in Athens.

This organization works on integrating various modes of public transport to ensure efficient and convenient transit options for residents and visitors in Athens.

STASY (Σταθερές Συγκοινωνίες – Fixed Rail Transport Organization): STASY is in charge of managing the infrastructure and operations of the fixed rail systems, which include the Athens Metro, the tram, and the electric railway (ISAP).

STASY’s role is critical in maintaining and expanding the rail network to accommodate the city’s growing needs.

Athens Guide Books: Top Picks for Your Journey

Use these insightful travel guides to navigate Athens’s ancient ruins, bustling markets, and serene landscape.

Rick Steves Greece: Athens & the Peloponnese by Rick Steves

This essential travel guide by Rick Steves offers expert tips on economically exploring Greece, covering Athens, the Peloponnese, and beyond.

Discover the culture, cuisine, top sights, and hidden gems efficiently.

Lonely Planet Pocket Athens by Alexis Averbuck

Lonely Planet’s Pocket Athens guide offers concise, thorough exploration tips, including color maps and top attractions like the Acropolis.

It is ideal for short stays and cultural immersion.

Moon Greek Islands & Athens: Timeless Villages, Scenic Hikes, Local Flavors by Sarah Souli

Explore Greece authentically with Moon’s Guide by Sarah Souli, showcasing Athens’ charm and the Greek Islands through hikes, cuisine, and history, complete with vibrant photos and maps.

Types of Transportation in Athens

Athens offers a variety of public transport options:

Metro, Tram & Bus

• Metro: Operated by STASY, the Athens Metro has three main lines. It’s a quick and efficient way to traverse the city, especially for reaching key tourist spots like the Acropolis and Syntagma Square. The Metro operates from early morning until midnight, with extended hours till 2 am on Fridays and Saturdays.
• Buses and Trolleys (Electric Buses): Buses and trolleys cover broader areas beyond the metro lines. They are frequent and reliable, with specific lines running 24 hours to the airport and key transit points.
• Tram: The Tram is ideal for scenic routes along the coast, connecting central Athens with its beautiful suburbs by the sea.
• Suburban Railway: This service connects Athens with the surrounding areas and the airport, providing a vital link for longer journeys.

Cab & Ride Sharing

In Athens, taxis are readily available and can be a convenient option for direct routes or when traveling late at night.

Uber also operates in the city, offering another reliable choice for travelers.

Taxis can be especially useful for sightseeing, allowing you to design flexible itineraries without depending on public transit schedules.

Plan Your Journey

Best Advice on Athens Public Transit

The most valuable tool for learning to navigate and use the Athens public transit system is a two-page guide from OASA called Athens Transport at a Glance.

The first page concisely presents almost everything you need to know in a straightforward format.

The second page features a route map with a list of all routes, which are color-coded and numbered for easy understanding.

Exciting Athens! Food Tour, Bike Excursion, Acropolis Visit, and a Full-Day Cruise

Explore Athens through unique experiences: indulge in a food tour, navigate by bike, visit the historic Acropolis, and unwind on a full-day cruise, capturing the city’s essence.

Acropolis Monuments & Parthenon Walking Tour with Optional Acropolis Museum

Discover the Acropolis and Parthenon on a guided walking tour. An optional visit to the airconditioned Acropolis Museum will enhance your understanding of ancient Greek history.

Athens Transit Route Map

Visitors should familiarize themselves with the Athens transit map available in Athens Transport at a Glance or the OASA website under ROUTES.

The STASY website has detailed maps and further information that will help you plan your routes and connect different modes of transportation efficiently.

Rideability & Walkability

Navigating Athens on Foot or by Public Transit

Athens is a walkable city, especially in the historic center where attractions like the Plaka neighborhood and the Acropolis are close.

The city’s public transit is well-integrated, making it easy to switch from walking to riding as needed.

Language and Communication

Signage and announcements in Athens’ public transport are predominantly Greek, but key tourist areas and major stations also include English.

Additional language assistance can be found through mobile apps and information kiosks.

Accessibility Information

Ensuring Access for All

Athens’ public transport system is designed to be accessible, with most metro stations equipped with elevators and designated seating on buses and trams for those with disabilities.

Continuous improvements are aimed at enhancing accessibility across all modes of transportation.

Safety on Public Transport

Staying Safe While Traveling in Athens

The public transportation in Athens is generally safe, even at night. However, staying alert and securing personal belongings is advised, especially in crowded or less-frequented areas.

Emergency buttons and security personnel are available across the network to assist passengers.

Luggage & Bicycles

Bringing Items on Athens Public Transport

• Luggage: Small to medium items can be taken on most modes of public transit, though it’s best to avoid peak times.
• Bicycles: Permitted on specific tram and metro lines during certain hours, usually non-peak.

Heating & Cooling

Comfort on Athens Public Transport

Whether it’s summer’s sweltering heat or winter’s mild chill, Athens’ public transit vehicles have air conditioning and heating systems to provide comfort throughout the year.

Great Books on Greece & the Greek Islands

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Girl Gone Greek: A Memoir of Greece

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The Rise of Athens: The Story of the World’s Greatest Civilization

This compelling narrative details how Athens became prominent, forever shaping politics, art, and philosophy.

Rick Steves Pocket Athens Paperback

A handy travel companion that offers insightful, practical tips for exploring Athens, complete with detailed maps.

Routes Designed for Visitors

Bus and tram routes are useful for tourists passing through or connecting major destinations.

Notable among these are the bus routes that circle historical sites and the tram route to the coast.

Piraeus – Acropolis – Syntagma EXPRESS

The X80 “Piraeus – Acropolis – Syntagma EXPRESS” bus line operates seasonally from May to October, connecting Piraeus cruise terminals with central Athens, including stops at major tourist sites like the Acropolis Museum and the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center.

The 17-mile, 27-kilometer route offers a circular journey every 35-40 minutes, enhancing tourist access and convenience.

Athens Coastal Tram

The Athens Coastal Tram connects Syntagma Square to the beaches of Glyfada and Voula, with stops in Nea Smyrni and various coastal locations.

Since its launch on July 19, 2004, this tram route has become an essential public transport link to the sea, extending to Piraeus.

The journey offers scenic coastal views, although it takes about an hour to reach Glyfada. Each tram is air-conditioned, providing a comfortable ride.

This route allows you to reach the beach, explore lesser-known neighborhoods, and enjoy local dining and cultural spots.

For a more extensive exploration of tourist attractions accessible by public transportation, look for the section titled ‘Athens Sightseeing Made Easy: Transit-Accessible Attractions’ later in this guide.

Navigating Athens through its public transit system is an efficient and enriching way to experience the city.

Whether you prefer the metro speed or the scenic tram routes, Athens’ transport network is designed to serve its residents and visitors easily.

Service Schedule & Tickets

Public transportation in Athens starts early, with services like the metro beginning at 5:30 AM and running until midnight or 2 AM on weekends.

Frequencies vary, with peak hours seeing metros every 3-5 minutes and less frequent services during off-peak times.

Essential Mobile Apps & Google Maps

Navigating Athens with Technology

Google Maps: Google Maps is indispensable for navigating Greece, whether walking, driving, or public transport. You can download maps for offline use to keep you on track without a data connection.

Uber: is available in Athens, Greece, but only offers its UberX and UberTAXI services. UberTAXI connects riders with licensed taxi drivers using the Uber app interface.

This setup allows visitors and residents to utilize familiar Uber services while complying with local transportation regulations, using licensed taxis instead of private vehicles.

Taxiplon: The Taxiplon app in Greece streamlines taxi booking with features like real-time tracking, transparent pricing, and driver ratings.

It supports multiple payment options and offers 24/7 customer support, ensuring a convenient and secure ride experience.

Telematics: OASA Bus Navigation For bus travel in Athens, OASA Telematics is essential.

It locates the nearest bus station and guides you to the right bus, updating you in real-time with bus locations and estimated arrival times.

Moovit: Comprehensive Transit Directions Moovit offers extensive route options for work, home, and any location in Athens.

It provides detailed directions and locations for bus stops and train stations, though arrival times are estimates and can vary.

These apps ensure a smooth travel experience around Athens, enhancing convenience and reducing the chances of getting lost.

Where & How to Buy Tickets

Purchasing tickets for public transportation in Athens is straightforward, with multiple options available to suit various needs:

• Ticket Booths and Machines are available at all metro, tram, and some bus stations. These machines accept cash, credit, or debit cards.
• Retail Kiosks and Mini Markets: These outlets sell tickets and passes throughout the city.
• Online: Tickets and multiple-day passes can be purchased online through the official OASA website or the Athens Transport app, allowing travelers to skip the lines.
• ATH.ENA Card: A reloadable card that can be used on all public transport. It can be purchased and topped up at stations or online.

Purchasing in advance online or loading a multi-day pass on the ATH.ENA Card can often save time and streamline your travel experience in Athens.

Save on Tickets

Athens offers several passes that can help tourists, visitors, or families save money while exploring the city:

• Tourist Tickets: Available for 1, 3, and 5 days, these passes offer unlimited travel and are perfect for visitors looking to explore extensively.
• Group Discounts: Families or groups traveling together can benefit from group tickets and discounts.
• Combo Tickets: Some tickets combine public transport with entry to tourist attractions, providing a cost-effective way to see more of Athens.

For additional details on types and locations of ticket purchases, see the OASA website. Ticket prices are listed on Athens Transport at a Glance.

ATH.ENACARD

The Athens “Athena Card” is an integrated travel card that simplifies access to public transportation in Athens, Greece.

It is for residents and tourists, facilitating travel across buses, trolleys, trams, subways, and suburban railways.

The card supports various fare options, including single-journey tickets and monthly passes, and operates on a contactless system, enabling quick entry through electronic readers at stations and on vehicles.

Rechargeable at numerous locations, such as metro stations and automatic vending machines, the Athena Card also allows for online top-ups and balance checks, enhancing user convenience.

This modernization has streamlined the public transport network, reducing queues at ticket counters and combating fare evasion.

The Athena Card exemplifies Athens’ dedication to enhancing its public transportation infrastructure, making it more accessible and user-friendly.

These options facilitate easier movement around the city and offer significant savings, making them ideal for those planning to use public transit extensively during their stay in Athens.

Local Transit Culture

Using Public Transport in Athens

• Etiquette: Offer seats to the elderly, disabled, or pregnant passengers.
• Noise: Keep conversations at a moderate volume.
• Queueing: Always let passengers alight before boarding.
• Tickets: Ensure you have a ticket and swipe it when required.
• Ticket Barriers: You will likely be detained if you jump over the ticket barrier.

On all forms of Athens Public Transport, ticket inspectors have handheld ticket reading machines. You will likely get caught if you attempt to ride without a ticket.

Embracing these local customs and staying informed about the practical aspects of Athens’ public transportation will ensure you can navigate the city smoothly and enjoyably.

Athens from the Airport or Train Terminal

Getting into Athens from either the Athens International Airport or the main train terminal is convenient. Multiple modes of transportation are available to cater to different preferences and needs.

For comprehensive details on Airport transportation, see Transportation to and from Athens Airport.

Below is a guide to the available transport options:

Metro

• Service: Metro Line 3 connects Athens International Airport with the city center, stopping at key stations like Syntagma and Monastiraki.
• Schedule: Trains run every 30 minutes, from early morning until midnight.
• Ticket Options: A single metro ticket from the airport to any city station costs about €10.

Suburban Railway

• Service: The Suburban Railway links the airport to the main Athens Railway Station (Larissa Station) and other key destinations outside Athens.
• Schedule: Operates from around 5:30 AM to midnight, varying frequencies throughout the day.
• Ticket Options: Fares are based on distance; the ride from the airport to Athens Central Station is approximately €8.

Buses

• Service: Four express bus lines (X93, X95, X96, X97) connect the airport to various parts of Athens, including Syntagma Square and Piraeus.
• Schedule: Buses run 24/7, departing every 15-20 minutes during the day and 30-40 minutes at night.
• Ticket Options: A standard ticket costs €6 and is valid for a single journey to or from the airport.

Taxis

• Service: Taxis are available at designated stands at the airport and train stations.
• Fixed Fares: The fixed fare to central Athens is about €38 during the day and €54 at night.
• Additional Information: Always ensure the meter runs or confirm the fixed fare before beginning your journey.

Ride-Sharing & Other Services

• Services: Uber and other local ride-sharing services operate in Athens, offering an alternative to traditional taxis.
• Booking: Services can be booked via respective smartphone apps, and prices vary based on demand and the specific route.

Car Rentals

• Availability: Numerous car rental agencies operate at the airport and train stations, offering a range of vehicles.
• Considerations: While traveling outside of Athens is convenient, driving in the city can be challenging due to traffic and limited parking.

Whether preferring the metro’s speed, the bus’s scenic route, or the privacy of a taxi or rideshare, Athens’ transport infrastructure is well-equipped to meet diverse transportation needs.

My Tips for Navigating Athens Public Transit

Navigating the public transit system in Athens, Greece, can be a breeze with the right knowledge and preparation. Here are some expert tips to help you travel like a local:

• Buy Tickets in Advance: Purchasing tickets or loading your ATH.ENA Card online before your journey saves time. This is especially useful during peak tourist seasons when lines can be long.
• Understand the Network: Familiarize yourself with the Athens public transit map early in your trip.
• Opt for Multi-Day Passes: If you’re in Athens for several days, consider buying a three or 5-day tourist pass, which offers unlimited travel and is more economical.
• Travel Off-Peak: To avoid the crowds, travel during off-peak hours. The metro and buses are busiest during early mornings and late afternoons on weekdays.
• Seasonal Considerations: Athens can be extremely hot in the summer, so traveling early in the morning or later in the evening can be more comfortable. Always carry water with you.
• Be Weather Wise: While Athens is milder than many other European cities in winter, it can still be rainy. Having an umbrella or raincoat can make unexpected weather changes more manageable.
• Stay Informed About Strikes: Transport strikes can occur and may disrupt services. Check local news or the OASA website for strike announcements during your stay.
• Security and Safety: Always monitor your belongings, especially in crowded stations or busy buses and trains. Use common sense and be aware of your surroundings.
• Learn the Etiquette: Allow passengers to disembark before you board and move towards the center of the train or bus to make space for others. Offering your seat to elderly, pregnant, or disabled passengers is also appreciated.
• Always have a valid ticket: ticket inspectors are everywhere.

By following these tips, you’ll navigate the Athens public transit system more effectively and enhance your overall experience in this vibrant city.

Whether commuting like a local or exploring the city’s rich heritage, knowing how to tackle the public transit system can make your visit smoother and more enjoyable.

Attractions You Can Visit by Transit

Exploring Athens by public transit is efficient and allows you to access some of the city’s most famous attractions easily.

Below is a guide to what attractions you can visit via different transit modes, detailing the routes and specific stops.

Metro Line 1 (Green Line)

• Route: Piraeus – Kifisia
• Key Stops and Attractions:
  • Monastiraki Station: Step off here for the ancient Agora and the bustling Monastiraki Flea Market.
  • Thissio Station: Access the scenic areas of Thissio, which are ideal for walking paths with views of the Acropolis.
  • Kato Patisia Station: Near the historical site of Plato’s Academy.

Metro Line 2 (Red Line)

• Route: Anthoupoli – Elliniko
• Key Stops and Attractions:
  • Acropolis Station: The gateway to the Acropolis, the New Acropolis Museum, and the historic district of Plaka.
  • Syntagma Station: Close to the Hellenic Parliament and the National Garden.
  • Omonia Station: Near the National Archaeological Museum.

Metro Line 3 (Blue Line)

• Route: Airport – Aghia Marina
• Key Stops and Attractions:
  • Syntagma Station: Connects to the heart of Athens and several key attractions.
  • Evangelismos Station: Access the Byzantine and Christian Museum and the War Museum.
  • Doukissis Plakentias Station: Transfer station for the suburban railway to the airport or towards the northern suburbs.

Tram

• Route: Syntagma – Voula (coastal route)
• Key Stops and Attractions:
  • Kasomouli Station: This station is near the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, which hosts the National Library of Greece and the Greek National Opera.
  • Edem Station: Access to the Edem Beachfront, a popular spot during the summer for swimming and sunbathing.
  • Flisvos Station: Near Flisvos Marina, offering a great area for walks and dining by the sea.

Bus Routes

• Route X95: Syntagma – Athens International Airport
• Key Stops and Attractions:
  • Syntagma Square is a central location with access to numerous sites, including changing the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
  • Intermediate Stops: Connects various neighborhoods, providing a view of the city’s diverse urban landscape.

This public transportation guide is crafted to ensure you can fully enjoy Athens’s rich historical and cultural tapestry without the hassle of driving or the expense of taxis.

Each route mentioned offers a convenient and direct way to witness Athens’ timeless beauty, making your visit memorable and convenient.

Athens Hop-on Hop-off Bus Services

Hop-on hop-off bus services in Athens offer a flexible and convenient way for tourists to explore the city’s rich historical and cultural landscape.

These double-decker buses are designed to provide panoramic views of Athens, making sightseeing a visually engaging experience.

City Sightseeing Athens, Piraeus & Beach Riviera Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

Popular Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

Experience Athens, Piraeus, and the Beach Riviera with a hop-on, hop-off bus tour. Enjoy flexible, scenic travel with stops at key attractions and beautiful coastal views.

Features of Athens Hop-on Hop-off Bus Services

• Panoramic Views: The double-decker design ensures passengers enjoy unobstructed views of Athens’ famous sites.
• Frequent Departures: Buses run regularly throughout the day, ensuring minimal wait times between rides.
• Multi-language Audio Guides: Passengers can learn about Athens’ history and the significance of each site through audio guides available in multiple languages.
• Flexible Tickets: Tickets are typically valid for 24 or 48 hours, allowing tourists to explore at their own pace and customize their itineraries.

Routes and Attractions

The hop-on hop-off buses in Athens cover most major attractions, including:

• The Acropolis and Parthenon: Iconic symbols of Athens’ ancient civilization.
• Syntagma Square: The heart of modern Athens, near the Hellenic Parliament.
• National Archaeological Museum: Home to some of the most important artifacts from Greek antiquity.
• Plaka District: Known for its charming streets and vibrant market life.

Intercity or Interstate Transit Services for Athens

Athens, as the capital of Greece, is well-connected to various parts of the country and neighboring regions through an extensive network of intercity and interstate transit services.

These services make exploring beyond the city’s boundaries convenient for residents and tourists.

Metro

• Line 3 (Blue Line): Extends from Athens city center to Athens International Airport, facilitating direct access for international and domestic travelers.
• Travel Time: Approximately 40 minutes from Syntagma Square to the airport.

Suburban Railway (Proastiakos)

• Key Routes:
  • Athens to Corinth: Stops at major stations like Kiato and connects with other regional services.
  • Athens to Chalkida: Direct service to Chalkida, offering scenic views of the Evian Gulf.
• Where to Catch: Depart from Athens Central Railway Station (Larissa Station).
• Travel Time: Ranges from 1 to 2 hours, depending on the destination.

Buses (KTEL)

• Key Routes:
  • Athens to Patras: Frequent services to one of Greece’s largest cities and an important port.
  • Athens to Thessaloniki: Regular services to Greece’s second-largest city provide a vital link between the north and south of the country.
• Where to Catch: KTEL buses can be caught at Kifisos Bus Terminal, the largest bus terminal in Athens.
• Travel Time: Depending on traffic conditions, it takes approximately 3 hours to Patras and about 5-6 hours to Thessaloniki.

Trains (Hellenic Train)

• Athens to Thessaloniki: This is one of the most popular train routes, offering fast and comfortable service across the mainland.
• Where to Catch: Depart from Athens Central Railway Station (Larissa Station).
• Travel Time: Approximately 4 to 5 hours.

Ferries

• Routes from Piraeus Port: This port offers extensive ferry connections to numerous Greek islands, including Crete, the Cyclades, and the Dodecanese.
• Where to Catch: Ferries depart from Piraeus Port, which is easily accessible by Metro (Line 1, Green Line) from the city center.
• Travel Time varies significantly depending on the destination; Piraeus to Crete can take 6 to 9 hours.

These transit options offer both efficiency and a range of choices depending on your travel needs, whether you’re heading to a nearby city or embarking on a longer journey across Greece.

Athens History of Public Transportation

The development of public transportation in Athens, a city with a millennia-long history, is a fascinating journey through time.

From ancient pathways to modern metros, Athens has continuously evolved its transit system to meet the demands of its growing population and bustling tourism.

Horse-drawn Trams

• Era: Introduced in the late 19th century.
• Development: Athens’ first organized public transport was the horse-drawn tram, which began servicing the city in 1882. These trams connected central Athens with its then suburbs, marking the city’s first step towards a structured public transport system.

Electric Trams

• Era: Early 20th century.
• Transition: By 1908, the horse-drawn trams were phased out in favor of electric trams, signifying the city’s modernization in line with other European capitals. The electric tram system expanded throughout the 20th century, becoming a popular mode of transport for Athenians.

Buses

• Introduction: Mid-20th century.
• Expansion: The introduction of buses provided more flexible transit routes and helped cover areas not accessible by trams. Buses have become an essential part of daily commuting in Athens, and the network is extensive and supports millions of passengers annually.

The Metro

• Inception: Planning began in the 1950s, but construction started much later.
• Launch: Athens Metro opened its first lines in 2000, just in time for the Athens 2004 Olympic Games. It was a major leap forward, providing a fast, reliable, and efficient service that significantly reduced the city’s traffic congestion and pollution.
• Network: Today, the Athens Metro includes three lines that connect the city center with residential areas, commercial centers, and the airport.

Modernization and Expansion

• 21st Century Developments: The introduction of the modern tram system in 2004 reconnected Athens with its coastal zones, offering both locals and tourists a scenic route from the city center to the beaches of the southern suburbs.
• Future Plans: The ongoing expansion of the metro system, including a new line currently under construction, promises to enhance connectivity further and reduce travel times across the city.

Additional Reading and Resources

For those interested in delving deeper into the historical context and evolution of Athens’ public transportation, the following resources are recommended:

• Athens Public Transport History – Details the chronological advancement of public transit in Athens.

This journey through the history of public transportation in Athens highlights the city’s commitment to improving mobility and adapting to technological and social changes over the centuries.

Heritage Transit Adventures in Athens

Athens boasts an extensive public transit system and celebrates its rich transportation history through dedicated museums and collections.

These institutions offer a deeper look into the evolution of public transportation in the city from ancient times to modern times.

Electric Railway Museum of Piraeus

• Overview: Located in Piraeus, this museum is housed in the historical Electric Railway Station, one of the first in Athens. It showcases a collection of old carriages, machinery, and memorabilia related to the development of electric railways in Athens.
• Visit Details: The museum offers guided tours that provide insights into the history of Athens’ electric railways, which were pivotal in the city’s expansion.
• Address: Piraeus (next to the current Piraeus Train Station)
• Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 09:00-14:00
• Website: For more information on visiting hours and special exhibits, visit the Electric Railway Museum of Piraeus.

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