🏙️ 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 — 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.
🚆 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 — and one of the easiest ways to get from the airport to neighborhoods like Syntagma, Monastiraki, and Piraeus.
Travel time: ≈ 40 min to Syntagma
Frequency: Every 30 min
Operating hours: 06 : 30 – 23 : 30
Ticket cost: €9 (one-way) / €16 (return 48 h)
💡 Pro tip: Group tickets save money — two people €17.80, three €24.70.
🧭 How to Take the Metro from Athens Airport
- Follow the signs for “To Trains / Metro.”
- Cross the pedestrian bridge to the Airport Metro Station.
- Buy your ticket from the machines or counter (English available).
- Validate it at the gate.
- Board the Blue Line toward Nikaia or Piraeus.
📍 Key Metro Stops for Travelers
| Station | Area Highlights | Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Syntagma | Central square, Parliament | Line 2 (Red) |
| Monastiraki | Plaka, Ancient Agora | Line 1 (Green) |
| Kerameikos | Gazi nightlife | — |
| Piraeus | Port & ferries | Direct Blue Line |
💡 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 — 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 → Syntagma, X96 → Piraeus, X93 → Kifissos, X97 → Elliniko
- Price: €5.50 (one-way)
🚋 Tram
The Athens Tram connects coastal suburbs like Glyfada and Voula with the city center. Transfer from Syntagma Station (Metro Line 3 → Tram).
🗺️ Metro vs. Taxi: Which Should You Choose?
| Option | Duration | Price | Comfort | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metro | 40 min | €9 | 👍 Clean | Solo / light luggage |
| Bus | 60–90 min | €5.50 | 😐 Basic | Budget / late night |
| Taxi | 35–40 min | €40–55 | 🚖 Door-to-door | Families |
| Private Transfer (Book here) | 30–35 min | from €45 | ⭐ Premium | Comfort seekers |
🕒 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 Type | Validity | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Airport Ticket | 1 trip | €9 | Valid 90 min |
| Return Ticket | 2 trips / 48 h | €16 | Great for weekend |
| Group (2 pax) | 90 min | €17.80 | Shared use |
| 3-Day Tourist Pass | Unlimited + Airport | €20 | Best value |
🌆 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 — a museum experience on your commute.
🤔 FAQ: Athens Airport Metro & Public Transport
1. Does the metro run 24 hours? No, last train ≈ 23 : 30. New rules are coming into place soon, but dont risk it.
2. How long to Syntagma? ≈ 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 — same destination, zero stress.
