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Getting from Piraeus Port to Athens City Center

Olivia De Santos

February 24, 2025

Upon arriving at Piraeus Port, a couple of convenient transportation options are available to reach Athens. To get from Piraeus Port to Athens city center, one of the quickest and most convenient options is to take a taxi. A Piraeus Port taxi takes around 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

An Athens transfer offers the same expedient service but you also get to skip the taxi queue.

Whether you choose to take a taxi or transfer, the transportation from Piraeus Port to your hotel in Athens will be easy, door-to-door, and hassle-free.

If you are on a budget and have more flexibility with your schedule, there are also two public bus services available: No.040 and X96. This is less convenient taking between 30-40 minutes to get to Athens city center.

Finally, you can also take the metro. Line 3 (the blue line) will get you to Athens city center in 30 minutes.

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Athens at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi Learn more

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2PASSENGERS

OPTION	PRICE	DURATION	AVAILABILITY
Taxi	€25	25min	24/7
Bus (No. 040)	€2.40	50min	24/7
Bus (No. X96)	€8.20	30min	24/7
Metro (Line 3)	€2.40	30min	05:30–22:55
Welcome Airport Transfer	€26	25min	24/7

How to get from Piraeus Port to Athens city center by taxi

There are plenty of Piraeus Port taxis parked at the taxi stands with a wide range of vehicles to accommodate any group of travelers. Standard yellow taxis are easily recognizable and available 24/7. Taking a taxi from Piraeus Port to Athens city center will take approximately 20-25 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

How much is a taxi from Piraeus Port to Athens?

There is no set taxi fare from Piraeus Port to Athens. Instead, your driver will use a taximeter to calculate your fare depending on the exact distance to your destination and the time of day. You may also be subject to luggage surcharges. The estimated cost of a taxi from Piraeus Port to the city is around €25.

Cost

€25

Trip Duration

25 Min.

*Rates may vary unless you book your taxi in advance.

Convenience

Safety

Value for money

Taxis are available 24/7 at Piraeus Port.

Where do I get a taxi from?

You can find the taxi rank outside of the port area as you disembark the ferry. Note that taxis are first come, first served, so you may have a wait for a taxi.

Convenience

Even though Piraeus Port taxis are highly convenient providing a comfortable, door-to-door service, it can take a long time to get a cab. Athens is a very popular destination during the summer, so when everyone disembarks the ferry, many will use the taxis to get to town. Therefore, if you want a faster route, booking a transfer in advance is the best option.

Editor’s Note

Great for a convenient travel solution on demand.

Useful Tips

Avoid paying with large bank notes because drivers might not have enough change.

Credit/debit card payments are usually accepted but it's always a good idea to ask.

Be sure to check the taxi for any forgotten items before you get out of the car.

Always ask for a receipt when you arrive at your destination; that way you avoid getting overcharged.

How to get from Piraeus Port to Athens city center by bus (No. 040)

For an even cheaper option than the metro, you can take one of two buses. Let’s start with the No.040 bus. This bus will take you from Piraeus Port to Syntagma Square in Athens city center in around 50 minutes in normal traffic conditions. It runs roughly every 15-25 minutes, 24 hours a day, making it a reliable transportation option for getting from Piraeus Port to Athens by bus.

How much is a bus from Piraeus Port to Athens city center?

A ticket on the Piraeus Port to Athens bus costs €1.20 per person. Children under 6 travel for free. You can purchase a ticket from the driver as you board or at the ticket machines by the bus stop.

Cost

€1.20

Trip Duration

50 Min.

Wait time is around 15-25 minutes.

Convenience

Safety

Value for money

The 040 is available 24/7.

Where do I get a bus from?

As you disembark the ferry, you’ll see the bus stop on the opposite road. The 040 is well-signposted both at the stop and on the bus itself.

Convenience

Though the No.040 bus is a direct route from Piraeus Port to Athens, it’s sadly the least convenient method. This is because the journey takes so long. You’ll also need to walk or take another means of transportation to get to your exact destination in central Athens. Taxis and transfers are far more convenient in that regard.

Timetables

No. 040 bus timetable

Editor’s Note

An option for travelers on a budget and with plenty of time on their hands.

Useful Tips

Ensure you have cash with exact change if you want to purchase your ticket from the driver as you board.

Luggage storage space is limited on public buses so we recommend packing light.

It is advised to have empty pockets when entering the bus and to be very careful with your personal belongings.

Regular bus tickets last 90 minutes; this allows you to travel with any number of changes towards your destination.

How to get from Piraeus Port to Athens city center by bus (No. X96)

A slightly speedier Piraeus Port to Athens bus is the X96. This express bus will reliably drop you in the city center in around 30 minutes in normal traffic conditions. Though there are fewer stops than the No.040, the X96 still services a few stops in the city center such as Akropoli, Syntagma Square, Syggrou-Fix, and Neo Faliro.

The caveat is that this bus only runs between 05:00 and 20:00 every day. It departs roughly every 30 minutes.

How much is the express bus from Piraeus Port to Athens city center?

It costs €4.10 per person for a ticket on the X96 bus. You can purchase your ticket from the machine at the bus stop using cash or card.

Cost

€4.10

Trip Duration

30 Min.

Waiting time is 30 minutes.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The X96 runs from 05:00 to 20:00.

Where do I get a bus from?

You can find the bus stop from Piraeus opposite the pier as you disembark the ferry. If you need help, consult a member of staff.

Convenience

The X96 bus is a little more convenient than the No. 040 bus as it is a faster transport method. However, you’ll still have the inconvenience of trying to navigate carrying your luggage on public transport, avoiding pickpockets, and finding transport to the doorstep of your destination after leaving the bus. These services are fairly busy during the summer, so you may also be subject to queues and long waiting times.

Timetables

Express X96 Timetable

Peiraias - Aerolimenas Athinon

Editor’s Note

A good budget-friendly option.

Useful Tips

The express bus tickets last 24 hours and allow you to travel with any number of changes.

Make sure to validate your ticket as soon as you get on the bus in order to avoid getting fined by an inspector.

All bus timetables are subject to seasonal changes. Therefore, we recommend checking the OASA website for the latest timetables before you travel.

How to get from Piraeus Port to Athens city center by metro (Line 3)

A great way to get from the Port of Piraeus to Athens is via the metro system. It’s cheap, easy to use and the trip lasts about 30 minutes. You’ll need to take the Blue Line (Line 3) towards the Airport. You can get off at Monastiraki or Syntagma, both are in central Athens.

How much is a train from Piraeus Port to Athens city center?

A one-way ticket for the metro from Piraeus Port to the city center costs just €1.20, making it a budget-savvy choice. The tickets last 90 minutes so this allows you to travel with any number of changes towards the destination of your choice.

There are ticket machines at every metro station. If you are having difficulty with the machines, during the day, you can buy your ticket from the staff at the ticket stands. These machines/stands are located at the entrance of the station.

Cost

€1.20

Trip Duration

30 Min.

Waiting time is around 10 minutes.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The metro runs from 05:30 to 22:55 on weekdays and on weekends the service is at 01:06.

Where do I get a train from?

The entrance to the metro is located within walking distance of Piraeus Port. As you disembark the ferry, you can see the metro station. The metro is also well-signposted. If you are having difficulty, you may ask a staff member of the ferry port.

Convenience

Taking the metro from Piraeus Port to Athens city center is a great choice if you want to save money but still want an efficient journey. It can be cumbersome with heavy luggage but it is inexpensive and reliable.

Timetables

Line 3 Metro Timetable

Dimotiko Theatro - Airport/Douk. Plakentias

Editor’s Note

Great for travelers on a budget who have a flexible schedule.

Useful Tips

Be sure to validate your ticket as you enter to avoid getting fined if an inspection occurs.

Always look at the map of the metro and double-check the signs because they can be a bit confusing.

If you are a student, you can purchase the half-price ticket, but make sure to have an ID on you in case an inspection occurs.

You can save money by buying ticket packages, such as: a 5-day ticket, a 3-day tourist ticket and a day ticket.

Children under 6 travel for free.

How to get from Piraeus Port to Athens city center by private transfer

Booking an Athens private transfer from Piraeus Port to Athens is the best way to travel for families, couples, solo adventurers, and business travelers alike. Not only will you get top-quality service from a highly trained local driver, but you’ll also get to skip the taxi queue when you get to Piraeus Port.

If you book your private transfer with a well-reviewed international company like Welcome Pickups, we craft a personalized service for you from beginning to end that includes great perks like:

Friendly meet and greets
Trained and vetted local drivers
Guaranteed on-time pickups with flight monitoring
Unbeatable fixed fares
24/7 customer support

Knowing that everything is planned ahead of time, you can relax for your entire flight knowing that when you land, your transfer will be waiting for you.

How much is a private transfer from Piraeus Port to Athens city centerr?

The prices for an airport transfer from Piraeus Port to Athens city center are as follows:

Sedan (up to 4 passengers) – €26
Minivan (5-8 passengers) – €75
Minibus (9-12 passengers) – €82

One of the best things about booking a Piraeus Port transfer is that you’ll receive a fixed quote ahead of time that is not subject to change. That means no hidden fees or taximeter anxiety on the day.

All you need to do to book via our online portal or mobile app (App Store || Google Play) is enter your contact details, flight number, number of passengers, and ideal pickup time. Our system will generate a quote for you. To solidify your booking, follow the instructions to pay securely by credit or debit card using our online payment system.

And that’s it! Your Piraeus Port transfer is booked. We’ll get to work finding the best driver and ideal vehicle for your journey.

Cost

€26

Trip Duration

25 Min.

*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 with Welcome Pickups, we’ll arrange for your driver to meet you at a pickup point outside of Piraeus Port holding a sign with your name on it.

Convenience

There’s nothing more convenient than having a private vehicle and driver waiting to take you from Piraeus Port to Athens city center as soon as you arrive. Private transfers give you the comfort and efficiency of a local taxi, but the indeed luxury of skipping the taxi queue and having 24/7 customer support. By choosing a top-rate company like Welcome Pickups, you ensure a safe, smooth arrival in Athens for you and your loved ones.

Editor’s Note

Ideal for groups and solo travelers who want a convenient, safe, reliable journey.

Useful Tips

If you need a child booster or baby seat, you can request one during the booking process online or using the app.

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.

If you’d like to tip your Piraeus transfer driver, you are welcome to do so in the Welcome Pickups app.

Your driver will be delighted to give you some top tips about Athens so you can make the most of your stay.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in Athens. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

DAYTIME

€25

NIGHTTIME

€50

Same price as a regular taxi from the line

PRICES FOR

Sedan Car

4 pax, 4 pieces of luggage

Book Welcome Pickups transfer

Frequently asked questions

How to get from Piraeus Port to Athens city center?

The most convenient option to get from Piraeus Port to Athens city center is to take a taxi or private transfer if you prefer comfort. This route takes around 25 minutes. Alternatively, you may wish to choose the bus or metro if you’re traveling on a tight budget. Via public transport, the journey takes 30-40 minutes.

Is there a free shuttle from Piraeus Port?

There is a free shuttle at Piraeus Port that helps you get around the port, but this does not travel to Athens. If you want to get from Piraeus Port to Athens city center, you can travel by taxi, transfer, bus, or metro.

How much is a taxi from Piraeus Port to Athens?

The average taxi fare from Piraeus Port to Athens city center is €25, not including surcharges and traffic considerations.

How do I get to Athens city center from Piraeus Cruise Port?

The most popular way to get to Athens city center from Piraeus Port is to take a taxi. Booking a private transfer in advance means you can skip the taxi queue and get to your destination sooner. Alternatively, there are two available buses and a metro line from Piraeus Port to Athens. These routes take around 30 minutes.

How much is the metro from Piraeus to Athens?

A one-way metro ticket from Piraeus Port to Athens via the Blue Line (Line 3) is €1.20. The ticket will last 90 minutes allowing you to travel with any number of changes towards your destination. The trip from Piraeus Port to Athens will take around 30 minutes.

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