Metro & Public Transport

πŸ™οΈ Getting Around Athens: Metro & Public Transport from the Airport

I still remember my first time arriving at Athens International Airport (ATH). After the long flight, I wanted the fastest, easiest, and most affordable way to reach the city. I’d already seen the yellow taxis and the Welcome Pickups drivers waiting, but this time, I wanted to try the Athens Metro β€” the city’s most efficient public-transport option.

If you’re planning to do the same, this guide will help you master the Athens Airport Metro, understand your public-transport choices, and navigate like a local from day one.


πŸš† Athens Metro from the Airport: Quick Overview

The Athens Metro connects Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) directly to the city center via Line 3 (Blue Line). It’s clean, safe, and efficient β€” and one of the easiest ways to get from the airport to neighborhoods like Syntagma, Monastiraki, and Piraeus.

Travel time: β‰ˆ 40 min to Syntagma
Frequency: Every 30 min
Operating hours: 06 : 30 – 23 : 30
Ticket cost: €9 (one-way) / €16 (return 48 h)

πŸ’‘ Pro tip: Group tickets save money β€” two people €17.80, three €24.70.


🧭 How to Take the Metro from Athens Airport

  1. Follow the signs for β€œTo Trains / Metro.”
  2. Cross the pedestrian bridge to the Airport Metro Station.
  3. Buy your ticket from the machines or counter (English available).
  4. Validate it at the gate.
  5. Board the Blue Line toward Nikaia or Piraeus.

πŸ“ Key Metro Stops for Travelers

StationArea HighlightsConnection
SyntagmaCentral square, ParliamentLine 2 (Red)
MonastirakiPlaka, Ancient AgoraLine 1 (Green)
KerameikosGazi nightlifeβ€”
PiraeusPort & ferriesDirect Blue Line

πŸ’‘ Check last train times if heading to the port late at night.


🚌 Other Public Transport Options from Athens Airport

The metro isn’t your only choice β€” Athens has several public-transport alternatives depending on your arrival time, budget, and destination.

🚍 Airport Express Buses

  • 24 / 7 service, ideal for late arrivals.
  • Routes: X95 Airport β†’ Syntagma, X96 β†’ Piraeus, X93 β†’ Kifissos, X97 β†’ Elliniko
  • Price: €5.50 (one-way)

πŸš‹ Tram

The Athens Tram connects coastal suburbs like Glyfada and Voula with the city center. Transfer from Syntagma Station (Metro Line 3 β†’ Tram).


πŸ—ΊοΈ Metro vs. Taxi: Which Should You Choose?

OptionDurationPriceComfortBest for
Metro40 min€9πŸ‘ CleanSolo / light luggage
Bus60–90 min€5.50😐 BasicBudget / late night
Taxi35–40 min€40–55πŸš– Door-to-doorFamilies
Private Transfer (Book here)30–35 minfrom €45⭐ PremiumComfort seekers

πŸ•’ Public Transport Timetables & Tips

  • Metro Line 3: 06 : 30 – 23 : 30
  • Buses: 24 h service
  • Validate tickets before boarding (€72 fine otherwise)
  • Use the OASA Telematics app for live updates.

🎟️ Ticket Types & Travel Cards

Ticket TypeValidityPriceNotes
Single Airport Ticket1 trip€9Valid 90 min
Return Ticket2 trips / 48 h€16Great for weekend
Group (2 pax)90 min€17.80Shared use
3-Day Tourist PassUnlimited + Airport€20Best value

πŸŒ† Discovering Athens by Metro

Even after you reach your hotel, the Athens Metro remains the easiest way to explore: Acropolis (Station Acropoli), Omonia, and beyond.
Bonus: some stations like Syntagma and Acropoli display ancient artifacts inside β€” a museum experience on your commute.


πŸ€” FAQ: Athens Airport Metro & Public Transport

1. Does the metro run 24 hours? No, last train β‰ˆ 23 : 30. New rules are coming into place soon, but dont risk it.

2. How long to Syntagma? β‰ˆ 40 minutes.

3. Is one ticket valid across bus + tram + metro? Yes (90 min window).

4. Where to buy tickets? Machines or desks at each station.

5. Discounts? Children, students, seniors pay half fare.


🧳 Final Thoughts

For a smooth, low-cost, and local start to your Athens trip, the metro and public transport network are perfect.
If comfort and convenience matter more after a long flight, simply book a private transfer with Welcome Pickups β€” same destination, zero stress.