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How to Get to Athens

How to Get to Athens

Attica Greece Travel Guide

Airport Transfers to Piraeus

Metro & Suburban Rail

The Metro Blue Line (Line 3) from the Airport to Monastiraki, then change to Green Line (Line 1) to Piraeus. This ride takes approximately 60-75 minutes. The Suburban Rail has a direct line from Airport to Piraeus. This ride takes approximately 60 minutes.

Details

  • Metro Cost: €9 (special airport fare).
  • Suburban Rail Cost: €9.
  • Frequency: Metro every 30 mins, Suburban Rail hourly.

Express Bus & Taxi

The X96 Fast Bus directly links the airport to Piraeus Port. This route operates 24/7. Taxis from the airport to Piraeus have a flat rate. Confirm the flat rate with the driver beforehand.

Details

  • Express Bus Cost: €5.50. Duration: 60-90 minutes.
  • Taxi Cost: Approximately €55-€65 (flat rate, includes tolls).
  • Extra charges for late-after-dark travel (00:00-05:00) apply for taxis.

Direct Flight Options

Direct flights to Athens International Airport exist from major global cities including New York, London, Paris, Frankfurt, Dubai, and Istanbul.

Seasonal Fluctuations

Flight availability generally climbs and prices rise during the high season (June-August). Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) often have a good balance.

Airport Facilities

ATH provides extensive duty-free shops, diverse dining, car hire companies, currency exchange, ATMs, and free Wireless internet-Fi.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

  • Piraeus is a major railway hub for Greek railway network (OSE).
  • Proastiakos (Suburban Rail) links Piraeus directly to Athens (Larissa Station) and the airport.
  • Intercity rail services from Athens Larissa Station connect to major Greek cities.
  • Offers a fast and reliable way to travel within greater Athens.

Long-Distance Bus Options

  • Main long-distance bus terminals (KTEL) are in Athens.
  • Kifissos Bus Terminal for northern/western Greece.
  • Liosion Bus A terminal for central Greece and Peloponnese.
  • Travelers take local public transport from Athens terminals to Piraeus.

Self-Driving Considerations

Requirements

A valid national driving license is always needed. An International Driving Permit (IDP) comes as a strong suggestion for non-EU citizens, and law for some nationalities.

Road Conditions

Roads in Greece are generally well-maintained, especially national highways. Rural roads can vary. Driving in Piraeus/Athens are able to see heavy traffic and reckless driving.

Parking

Finding street parking in Piraeus is difficult, often with payment. Private multi-story car parks hold more secure, paid options. DiscoverCars.com for car rentals.

Getting There & Away: Sea Travel

Ferry Services & Cruise Ports

Piraeus is the largest passenger port in Europe and the principal gateway to the Greek islands. The port has extensive connections to almost all major Greek island groups (Cyclades, Dodecanese, Crete, Saronic Gulf islands).

Ferry Information

  • Frequent services, especially during peak season.
  • Various ferry types, from conventional to high-speed catamarans.
  • Piraeus is a major Mediterranean cruise port with specialized terminals.

Immigration & Connections

For international arrivals by ferry, standard passport control applies. For domestic ferry travel within Greece, no passport control occurs. The Piraeus port connects exceptionally effectively to land transportation networks.

Port Connectivity

  • Metro (Green Line 1) directly adjacent to main port gates.
  • Suburban Rail Station near main port.
  • Numerous bus stops near E (Exit) gates for local/airport routes.

Departure Procedures: Air Travel

All departure taxes are included in your airline ticket. For international flights from Athens International Airport (ATH), try to arrive 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure. This period allows ample time for check-in, baggage drop, and security screening.

Timing Considerations

  • 2-3 hours for international flights.
  • Allow extra time during peak summer season due to crowds.
  • Account for rental car return time.

Departure Procedures: Ferry Travel

No separate exit fees apply at the port. For domestic boats to the Hellenic islands, arrive at least 30-ONE hour prior to departure. This period allows time to locate your gate and board. For international ferries (e.g., to The boot), arrive 1-2 hours before departure for passport control and boarding.

Port Arrivals

  • 30-60 minutes for domestic ferries.
  • 1-2 hours for international ferries.
  • A Waterproof dry bag has use for taking the ferry.

Airport & Port Facilities

Athens International Airport ATH

Offers check-over the counter, self-service kiosks, luggage drop-off-off, and efficient security checkpoints. Beyond security, extensive duty-free shopping, dining, and lounges are available.

Piraeus Port

Less extensive than a flight center, but possesses basic facilities. Numerous ferry company ticket offices, kiosks selling snacks/drinks, and certain cafes are available. Restrooms are also present.

Tips for Departure

Check your specific ferry gate area for amenities, as they can vary. A Portable GPS device or offline maps for getting around by car assist with route planning.

Smooth Departures

Give yourself plenty of time for the airport and port procedures, especially during peak travel periods. Confirm all booking details prior to departure.
How to Get to Athens. Flights, Transportation, Airlines