Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) is approximately 35 km from the city center. Depending on traffic levels, it takes 25-30 minutes to travel from the airport to the city. You can travel from the airport to the city using four different means of transport: taxi, Athens Airport transfer, metro, or bus.
The quickest and most convenient option is an Athens Airport taxi or airport transfer, as these services are door-to-door. If you want to use public transport to save some money, the fastest option is the metro, which will get you to Syntagma Square in 40 minutes. Alternatively, the cheapest transportation option is the X95 Express Bus, which takes around an hour to get to the center.
Perfect for budget-conscious travelers with some time to spare.
Video Guide: Getting from ATH Airport to Athens
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How to get from Athens Airport to the city by taxi
Getting a taxi from Athens Airport to the city center is one of the fastest and most convenient transport options. Official taxis are yellow with a ‘TAXI’ sign on the roof and are available 24/7 from the official airport taxi ranks.
All you need to do is exit Arrivals and jump into the queue at the rank. The journey to Syntagma Square in central Athens takes around 25 minutes in usual traffic conditions.
Cost of a taxi from Athens Airport to the city center
Taxis in Athens charge using a taximeter, which means the final fare is based on the distance traveled. However, there is a fixed fare for routes from Athens Airport to the city. The price during the day is €40, and a ride at night (00:00-05:00) will cost you €55.
*The day or night tariff is applied based on when you arrive at your final destination.
Where do I get a taxi from?
Athens Airport’s taxi rank is just outside arrivals, close to Exit 3. Upon exiting the terminal building, you’ll see official taxis lined up right in front of you. Join the queue and wait for an available taxi.
*It’s best to notify the driver that you know the fixed fare to the center.
Convenience
Getting an official airport taxi at Athens Airport is a reliable choice. They take you straight to your hotel, and fares are fixed. You’ll find taxis lined up in the ranks 24 hours a day.
The only downside is that the airport gets very busy during peak season (June-August), so you may end up standing in line waiting for an available taxi.
Useful Tips
Always mention that you are aware of the flat fee to the city center and double-check the amount with the driver.
Keep in mind that fixed fares from Athens Airport to Athens are decided by a taxi syndicate, so they are subject to inflation during the high season.
According to Greek law a taxi can carry a maximum of four people at a time, including children.
Airport taxis in Athens may accept card payments but many drivers will not. We suggest checking with your driver before starting the ride.
If you need a wheelchair-accessible taxi, you must book a taxi from Athens Airport in advance to ensure you secure a properly equipped vehicle.
You can also pre-book a taxi from the airport. For more information, you can contact the Taxi Union Association (SATA).
Limousines are available upon request, between Exits 3 and 4 on the Arrivals Level.
Some taxi drivers may not speak fluent English. We recommend writing down the address of your hotel or accommodation to avoid any miscommunication.
How to get from Athens Airport to the city by metro
When it comes to using Athens public transportation, the metro is the best choice. Line 3 (blue line) connects the airport and ‘Dimotiko Theatro’ in Piraeus via the city center.
The train from Athens Airport to the city center takes around 40 minutes. The main stops in the central area are ‘Syntagma,’ which takes 16 stops, and ‘Monastiraki,’ which is 17 stops from the airport.
Suppose your hotel or final destination is located in other areas of the center. In that case, you can change onto the red line at Syntagma or onto the green line (suburban rail) at Monastiraki.
*We recommend checking which stop is closest to your final destination on Google Maps.
How much is the metro from Athens Airport to Athens?
A one-way metro ticket from Athens Airport to Athens costs €9, and a round-trip ticket costs €16. Make sure you purchase the ‘Airport Metro ticket,’ as standard 90-minute tickets are not valid for trips to and from the airport.
If you plan on using Athens public transportation throughout your stay, you can purchase a ‘3-day tourist Ath.ena ticket’ for €20. It’s valid on buses, trams, the metro, and the suburban railway, and it also includes a return trip from the airport via bus or metro.
Tickets can be purchased from ticket booths in the metro station or the self-service machines.
*Upon entering and exiting the subway, You must validate your ticket at the turnstiles.
Cost
€9
Trip Duration
40 Min
Blue Line 3 departs from Athens Airport to Syntagma every 36 minutes.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
Athens metro runs from 06:10 until 23:34.
Where do I get the metro from?
The Athens Airport metro station is just a 5-minute walk from the arrivals exits on the departure level. You must follow the ‘Train’ signs as you exit the terminal building. Cross the street, ascend one level via either elevator or escalator, and cross over the pedestrian bridge. Once there, you can follow the signs down to the metro platform.
Convenience
If you are arriving when the Athens Airport metro is operating, it’s a fairly convenient option. However, you will still need to walk from Arrivals to the station and wait around 30 minutes for your train. Additionally, the metro can get quite crowded during peak season and is particularly unpleasant during the hot summer months.
Nevertheless, the metro is the fastest and most convenient mode of public transport when traveling from Athens Airport to your hotel in the center.
Timetables
Line 3 Metro Timetable
Blue Line Athens Airport-Dimotiko Theatro
Athens Metro Tickets
Information about Ath.ena Tickets and Passes
Useful Tips
Tickets can be bought from the ticket booths or self-service machines at the train station.
Make sure that you scan your tickets on the designed validation machines.
If you plan on using the metro throughout your stay, you can also buy day tickets or 10 rides in one go to save money.
There is some luggage storage on the airport metro line. Although they get filled quite quickly during peak season and public holidays.
Athens metro network is fully accessible with lifts, escalators and ramps wherever needed.
Children under 6 years old can use the metro for free.
Always be vigilant of pickpockets by keeping an eye on your luggage and valuables when traveling on Athens metro, especially when approaching the center.
How to get from Athens Airport to the city center by bus
Taking a bus from Athens Airport to the city center is the cheapest but not necessarily the most convenient option. A few express services connect the airport to various areas around Athens.
The X95 Express Bus departs from Athens Airport and ends at Syntagma Square in central Athens, taking around 60 minutes. If traffic is heavy, the bus can take up to 90 minutes to get to the center.
How much is the bus from Athens Airport to the city center?
The most budget-friendly option is to take the X95 bus from Athens Airport to the city center. You’ll need to buy an ‘Express Bus Line Ticket,’ valid for one bus trip and costs €5.50.
If you plan on using the public transport network throughout your stay, you can purchase an Ath.ena ticket or day passes to secure discounted prices.
*Tickets can be purchased at the ticket kiosk in the bus departure area or from the driver on board the bus.
Cost
€5.50
Trip Duration
60 Min
There is an average waiting time of 15-25 minutes.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
The Express Bus Line X95 runs 24/7, including public holidays.
Where do I get the bus from?
The OASA Athens Airport buses depart from the bus stand between exits 4 and 5 of the arrivals terminal. Just look for the blue ticket booth with OASA written on it. The express lines depart from the bus stop next to it.
Convenience
Although it’s the most affordable option, taking a bus from Athens Airport to downtown is the least convenient mode of transport. Because your journey time depends on traffic levels, you can expect substantial delays during rush hours due to the city’s old road network and congestion.
Plus, the bus fills up quickly during peak season, so you’ll have to wait for the next one.
However, the buses run 24/7, so if you arrive outside metro hours and want a cheap mode of transportation, it may be a good option for you.
Timetables
Athens Airport Bus X95
ATHENS AIRPORT-SYNTAGMA
OASA Ticket Information
Useful Tips
Make sure to check how far your final destination is from Syntagma Square, you can always use other express services to reach different areas of the city, such as; X93, X96, X97.
Remember to scan you ticket on the validation machines on board the bus.
The express buses have some luggage storage, you can ask the driver for more information.
Children under 6 years old travel for free.
The buses are wheelchair accessible and have designated seating for passengers with reduced mobility.
Athens city center gets very congested. So if you're traveling during rush hours (07:30 to 10:00 and 16:00 to 20:00), the journey may take well over an hour.
The OASA Express Bus lines run 24/7. So if you're set on using public transport but are arriving outside of the metro operating hours, the X95 bus is your best bet.
How to get from Athens Airport to the city center by private transfer
Booking an Athens Airport transfer to the city is the best way to travel. This allows you to skip the queue at the taxi rank, and you also get 5-star service and plenty of travel extras.
Private transfers, such as Welcome Pickups’ personalized services, are specifically designed with travelers in mind and offer a comprehensive service to ensure the most hassle-free arrival:
Meet and greets
Trained English-speaking drivers
Flight monitoring
Guaranteed fixed fares
24/7 customer support
With everything planned ahead of time, all you have to do is jump in your taxi and enjoy the view as you descend into central Athens. Plus, your driver will even give you a mini tour of the city and share a few local tips and tricks so that you can make the most out of your stay.
How much is a private transfer from Athens Airport to downtown?
The most useful thing about opting for an Athens Airport transfer is that you’ll receive a fixed quote ahead of time. This means you can book and pay for your transfer in advance, so you have nothing to worry about on the day.
Nevertheless, the prices of an airport transfer from Athens Airport to the city are as follows:
Sedan (up to 4) – €43 during the day and €58 at night
Minivan (up to 8) – €82 daytime and €110 nighttime
Minibus (up to 15) – €117 during the day and €165 at night
You can reserve your transfer on our website or app within minutes. Just enter your personal details, flight number, and pick-up time to secure a quote. The quote is fixed, all-inclusive, and not subject to change, so even if you get stuck in traffic, you won’t pay a cent more.
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*Booking your private transfer from ATH Airport in advance is the best way to ensure a seamless experience.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
Private transfer are available 24/7 from Athens International Airport.
Where do I get a private transfer from?
If you book a private transfer, your local English-speaking driver will be waiting for you at Arrivals, holding a sign with your name. Following a friendly meet and greet, your driver will help you with your luggage and lead you to your pre-selected vehicle.
Convenience
While Athens Airport taxis are a solid choice, private transfers offer more convenience and customization. For a similar price to official airport taxis, you can save time and ensure a top-quality, reliable service with a trained local driver. And with 24/7 customer support and extras such as skip-the-line tickets – you can arrive in style feeling safe, secure, and ready to explore.
Useful Tips
We recommend setting the pickup time to 20-30 minutes after the landing time to leave enough time to clear passport control and baggage claim.
Our modern sedans can seat up to 4 people, our larger minivans can take up to 8, and our spacious minibuses are for groups of up to 15.
You'll pay a night rate between 00:00 and 05:00.
A few days before you're due to fly, you will receive an email including your driver's name, details, and vehicle information so that you know what to expect on the day.
You do not have to tip your Athens Airport taxi driver, however, you can add a tip through the app if you really appreciate the service.
If you need a child booster or baby seat, you can request one during the booking process online or using the app.
Athens Airport private transfers
Powered by Welcome Pickups. Book a trained, English-speaking driver to pick you up for a fixed price with no hidden fees.
Athens Airport is located about 35 km from the city center. If you are traveling by car or taxi, reaching your destination shouldn’t take more than 25 to 30 minutes.
How much is a taxi from Athens Airport to the city center?
Rides to and from the airport in official airport taxis are charged at a flat rate. It will cost €40 to take a taxi in the daytime and €55 at night. However, if you are traveling outside the central ring, the fare will be calculated using a taximeter depending on the distance and the travel time.
How to get from Athens Airport to city center?
You can choose between four methods of transportation from Athens Airport: taxi, airport transfer, metro, or bus. The best way to get from Athens Airport to the city is by taxi or private transfer, as these services take you directly to your hotel. You can also opt to use Athens public transportation. The metro is the most practical, getting you to Syntagma in 40 minutes. You can also take an Athens Airport bus, the X95 Express Bus, to the center in 45-90 minutes, depending on traffic.
Can I take the metro from Athens Airport?
Athens Airport metro directly connects to Syntagma metro station in Athens city center via the blue line (Line 3). The ride is just 40 minutes and costs €9 one-way. If your hotel is a little further from the center, you can continue on the blue line or change to the red line once you reach Syntagma. We recommend checking Google Maps to see which metro station is closest to your final destination.
Justine Mellor
Justine is a content specialist and writer who started backpacking the world at 16 and has lived in three countries. With roots in the travel industry and a taste for the road less traveled, she seeks out places with soul—where the food’s loud, the music’s local, and the culture runs deep.
Getting a taxi from Athens Airport to the city center is one of the fastest and most convenient transport options. Official taxis are yellow with a ‘TAXI’ sign on the roof and are available 24/7 from the official airport taxi ranks.
All you need to do is exit Arrivals and jump into the queue at the rank. The journey to Syntagma Square in central Athens takes around 25 minutes in usual traffic conditions.
Cost of a taxi from Athens Airport to the city center
Taxis in Athens charge using a taximeter, which means the final fare is based on the distance traveled. However, there is a fixed fare for routes from Athens Airport to the city. The price during the day is €40, and a ride at night (00:00-05:00) will cost you €55.
*The day or night tariff is applied based on when you arrive at your final destination.
Where do I get a taxi from?
Athens Airport’s taxi rank is just outside arrivals, close to Exit 3. Upon exiting the terminal building, you’ll see official taxis lined up right in front of you. Join the queue and wait for an available taxi.
*It’s best to notify the driver that you know the fixed fare to the center.
Convenience
Getting an official airport taxi at Athens Airport is a reliable choice. They take you straight to your hotel, and fares are fixed. You’ll find taxis lined up in the ranks 24 hours a day.
The only downside is that the airport gets very busy during peak season (June-August), so you may end up standing in line waiting for an available taxi.
Useful Tips
Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi
Learn moreWhen it comes to using Athens public transportation, the metro is the best choice. Line 3 (blue line) connects the airport and ‘Dimotiko Theatro’ in Piraeus via the city center.
The train from Athens Airport to the city center takes around 40 minutes. The main stops in the central area are ‘Syntagma,’ which takes 16 stops, and ‘Monastiraki,’ which is 17 stops from the airport.
Suppose your hotel or final destination is located in other areas of the center. In that case, you can change onto the red line at Syntagma or onto the green line (suburban rail) at Monastiraki.
*We recommend checking which stop is closest to your final destination on Google Maps.
How much is the metro from Athens Airport to Athens?
A one-way metro ticket from Athens Airport to Athens costs €9, and a round-trip ticket costs €16. Make sure you purchase the ‘Airport Metro ticket,’ as standard 90-minute tickets are not valid for trips to and from the airport.
If you plan on using Athens public transportation throughout your stay, you can purchase a ‘3-day tourist Ath.ena ticket’ for €20. It’s valid on buses, trams, the metro, and the suburban railway, and it also includes a return trip from the airport via bus or metro.
Tickets can be purchased from ticket booths in the metro station or the self-service machines.
*Upon entering and exiting the subway, You must validate your ticket at the turnstiles.
Athens metro runs from 06:10 until 23:34.
Where do I get the metro from?
The Athens Airport metro station is just a 5-minute walk from the arrivals exits on the departure level. You must follow the ‘Train’ signs as you exit the terminal building. Cross the street, ascend one level via either elevator or escalator, and cross over the pedestrian bridge. Once there, you can follow the signs down to the metro platform.
Convenience
If you are arriving when the Athens Airport metro is operating, it’s a fairly convenient option. However, you will still need to walk from Arrivals to the station and wait around 30 minutes for your train. Additionally, the metro can get quite crowded during peak season and is particularly unpleasant during the hot summer months.
Nevertheless, the metro is the fastest and most convenient mode of public transport when traveling from Athens Airport to your hotel in the center.
Timetables
Line 3 Metro Timetable
Blue Line Athens Airport-Dimotiko Theatro
Athens Metro Tickets
Information about Ath.ena Tickets and Passes
Useful Tips
Taking a bus from Athens Airport to the city center is the cheapest but not necessarily the most convenient option. A few express services connect the airport to various areas around Athens.
The X95 Express Bus departs from Athens Airport and ends at Syntagma Square in central Athens, taking around 60 minutes. If traffic is heavy, the bus can take up to 90 minutes to get to the center.
How much is the bus from Athens Airport to the city center?
The most budget-friendly option is to take the X95 bus from Athens Airport to the city center. You’ll need to buy an ‘Express Bus Line Ticket,’ valid for one bus trip and costs €5.50.
If you plan on using the public transport network throughout your stay, you can purchase an Ath.ena ticket or day passes to secure discounted prices.
*Tickets can be purchased at the ticket kiosk in the bus departure area or from the driver on board the bus.
The Express Bus Line X95 runs 24/7, including public holidays.
Where do I get the bus from?
The OASA Athens Airport buses depart from the bus stand between exits 4 and 5 of the arrivals terminal. Just look for the blue ticket booth with OASA written on it. The express lines depart from the bus stop next to it.
Convenience
Although it’s the most affordable option, taking a bus from Athens Airport to downtown is the least convenient mode of transport. Because your journey time depends on traffic levels, you can expect substantial delays during rush hours due to the city’s old road network and congestion.
Plus, the bus fills up quickly during peak season, so you’ll have to wait for the next one.
However, the buses run 24/7, so if you arrive outside metro hours and want a cheap mode of transportation, it may be a good option for you.
Timetables
Athens Airport Bus X95
ATHENS AIRPORT-SYNTAGMA
OASA Ticket Information
Useful Tips
Booking an Athens Airport transfer to the city is the best way to travel. This allows you to skip the queue at the taxi rank, and you also get 5-star service and plenty of travel extras.
Private transfers, such as Welcome Pickups’ personalized services, are specifically designed with travelers in mind and offer a comprehensive service to ensure the most hassle-free arrival:
With everything planned ahead of time, all you have to do is jump in your taxi and enjoy the view as you descend into central Athens. Plus, your driver will even give you a mini tour of the city and share a few local tips and tricks so that you can make the most out of your stay.
How much is a private transfer from Athens Airport to downtown?
The most useful thing about opting for an Athens Airport transfer is that you’ll receive a fixed quote ahead of time. This means you can book and pay for your transfer in advance, so you have nothing to worry about on the day.
Nevertheless, the prices of an airport transfer from Athens Airport to the city are as follows:
You can reserve your transfer on our website or app within minutes. Just enter your personal details, flight number, and pick-up time to secure a quote. The quote is fixed, all-inclusive, and not subject to change, so even if you get stuck in traffic, you won’t pay a cent more.
Private transfer are available 24/7 from Athens International Airport.
Where do I get a private transfer from?
If you book a private transfer, your local English-speaking driver will be waiting for you at Arrivals, holding a sign with your name. Following a friendly meet and greet, your driver will help you with your luggage and lead you to your pre-selected vehicle.
Convenience
While Athens Airport taxis are a solid choice, private transfers offer more convenience and customization. For a similar price to official airport taxis, you can save time and ensure a top-quality, reliable service with a trained local driver. And with 24/7 customer support and extras such as skip-the-line tickets – you can arrive in style feeling safe, secure, and ready to explore.
Useful Tips
Sedan up to 4 passengers
€19Starting from 4.8 EUR / passenger
Minivan up to 8 passengers
€82Starting from 10.3 EUR / passenger
Minibus up to 15 passengers
€54Starting from 3.6 EUR / passenger
Frequently asked questions
How far is Athens Airport from the city?
Athens Airport is located about 35 km from the city center. If you are traveling by car or taxi, reaching your destination shouldn’t take more than 25 to 30 minutes.
How much is a taxi from Athens Airport to the city center?
Rides to and from the airport in official airport taxis are charged at a flat rate. It will cost €40 to take a taxi in the daytime and €55 at night. However, if you are traveling outside the central ring, the fare will be calculated using a taximeter depending on the distance and the travel time.
How to get from Athens Airport to city center?
You can choose between four methods of transportation from Athens Airport: taxi, airport transfer, metro, or bus. The best way to get from Athens Airport to the city is by taxi or private transfer, as these services take you directly to your hotel. You can also opt to use Athens public transportation. The metro is the most practical, getting you to Syntagma in 40 minutes. You can also take an Athens Airport bus, the X95 Express Bus, to the center in 45-90 minutes, depending on traffic.
Can I take the metro from Athens Airport?
Athens Airport metro directly connects to Syntagma metro station in Athens city center via the blue line (Line 3). The ride is just 40 minutes and costs €9 one-way. If your hotel is a little further from the center, you can continue on the blue line or change to the red line once you reach Syntagma. We recommend checking Google Maps to see which metro station is closest to your final destination.
Justine Mellor
Justine is a content specialist and writer who started backpacking the world at 16 and has lived in three countries. With roots in the travel industry and a taste for the road less traveled, she seeks out places with soul—where the food’s loud, the music’s local, and the culture runs deep.
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