ATHENS METRO
Using the Athens Metro is easy and efficient, with three main lines connecting key areas of the city and affordable ticket options.
Overview of the Athens Metro
Line 1 (Green): Runs from Piraeus to Kifissia, passing through central stations like Monastiraki and Omonia.
Line 2 (Red): Connects Anthoupoli to Elliniko, with major stops including Syntagma and Acropolis.
Line 3 (Blue): Links the city centre to the airport, making it convenient for visitors
Tickets can be purchased at vending machines in metro stations or from ticket counters. You can also use contactless payment methods with the Tap2Ride system, which allows you to pay directly with a card or smartphone - just tap on the barrier as you move through the stations.
The Athens Metro is designed to be accessible, featuring ramps, elevators, and designated seating for passengers with disabilities. Voice and visual announcements are available to assist all travelers.
Tips for Using the Metro
Plan Your Route: Familiarize yourself with the metro map and plan your journey in advance.
Keep Your Ticket Handy: Always have your ticket or payment method ready for inspection.
Avoid Rush Hours: If possible, travel outside of peak hours to enjoy a more comfortable ride.
Explore the Stations: Many metro stations display archaeological finds, making them interesting stops along your journey.
CAR HIRE
It is possible to hire a car in Athens, but the roads and traffic may put your off unless you are used to driving in a large city with some fast roads and crazy drivers. Remember also that parking can be very scarce in the city.
EXCURSIONS
There are many excellent excursions that can be booked with Olympic Holidays if you are staying in an Athens City Centre hotel. See the 'Excursions from Athens' page for more information
TAXIS
Taxis are one of the main ways that Athenians take short trips in the city - they are relatively cheap. You will see yellow taxi's everywhere in Athens from the minute you arrive at the airport. You can hail a taxi on the road, we would suggest agreeing a price with the driver before you get in the cab. Some taxis have POS machines but most will rely on you having cash.
UBER
Uber cars are available in Athens if you have the Uber app. Most of them tend to be yellow taxis - there are not so many as in other European cities but they are certainly around.
BUS SERVICE
There is a huge bus network in the city of Athens, it can be quite overwhelming as a tourist as some of the bus destinations on the front of the vehicles only show in Greek. But ask at your hotel reception if you want to make a particular journey on a bus and they will be able to help you.
Athens is connected to even the remotest destinations through the Athens International Airport, ports of Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio, national railway network operated by TRAINOSE and, long-distance bus network KTEL.