Getting around Athens

Discover the best ways to explore Athens

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Navigating Athens is an adventure in itself. Athens offers visitors many transportation options that blend convenience, charm, and local flavour.
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Whether you are looking to explore Athens Town, reach its world-famous beaches, or discover the hidden gems it has to offer, understanding the transportation landscape is key to maximising your experience.
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From public buses and convenient taxi services to adventurous scooter rentals and scenic boat trips, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about getting around Athens.
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Taxi
Car Rent
Bus
Scooter
Water Taxi
By Foot
Athens Taxis

Athens Taxis

Taxis are a key part of navigating Athens, with a huge fleet of yellow cars available throughout the city. You can hail them on the street, find them at designated ranks, or pre-book for convenience.

The main challenge in Athens is the heavy traffic, which can make metered fares unpredictable. For peace of mind, especially for crucial journeys like to the airport or the port of Piraeus, a pre-booked transfer is the best choice.

A service like Aegean Taxi offers a guaranteed fixed price, professional English-speaking drivers, and the ease of booking via an app. It's the most reliable and stress-free way to travel, ensuring you arrive at your destination comfortably and on time.


Athens Car Rental

Athens Car Rental

Renting a car is only recommended if you are planning multi-day excursions outside of the city, for example, to Delphi or the Peloponnese. All major rental agencies have offices at the airport and throughout Athens.

For travel within the Athens city center, renting a car is strongly discouraged. The traffic is intense, the driving style is aggressive, and finding legal parking is nearly impossible and very expensive.

The city's excellent public transport system and the availability of reliable taxi services are far superior options for exploring Athens itself. For day trips, consider hiring a private driver from Aegean Taxi for a more relaxing experience.


Athens Buses & Metro

Athens Buses & Metro

Athens boasts an excellent, modern, and affordable public transport network of metro, buses, trolleys, and trams. For visitors, the Metro is the fastest and most efficient way to get around.

The Metro's three lines connect all major points of interest, including the airport, the Port of Piraeus, Syntagma Square, and the Acropolis. The 24/7 express buses (like the X95 and X96) are also vital for airport and port connections.

You can purchase multi-day tourist tickets at airport and metro station kiosks, which offer great value. For destinations not on the metro line, a quick ride with Aegean Taxi can easily bridge the gap.


Athens Scooter Rental

Athens Scooter Rental

While scooter and motorcycle rentals are available in Athens, they are only recommended for very experienced and confident riders. The city's traffic is dense, fast-paced, and can be chaotic for those unfamiliar with it.

The main advantage is the ease of parking, but the risks are considerable. Navigating the complex web of city streets requires intense concentration.

For a much safer and more relaxing way to make quick, direct trips across the city, a pre-booked ride with a professional driver from a service like Aegean Taxi is the far wiser choice for most visitors.


Athens by Tram

Athens by Tram

A unique and scenic way to travel is the Athens Coastal Tram. This modern tram line connects the city center (Syntagma Square) with the beautiful coastal suburbs of the Athens Riviera.

It's a leisurely and affordable ride that takes you along the coastline to popular seaside districts like Glyfada and Voula, where you can find organized beaches, cafes, and restaurants.

While not the fastest mode of transport, it's a wonderful experience for a relaxed day trip to the beach without the hassle of driving. The tram is part of the integrated public transport ticket system.


Athens City Highlights & Acropolis Tour

Athens City Highlights & Acropolis Tour

  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Cost: From €200 (€50/hour)
  • Car Type: Standard/Van (up to 7)
Description: This private tour is the perfect introduction to the ancient wonders of Athens. See the Panathenaic Stadium, home of the first modern Olympics, witness the Changing of the Guard at Syntagma Square, and view the colossal Temple of Olympian Zeus. The journey culminates with a visit to the iconic Acropolis to walk among the timeless monuments of the Parthenon and Erechtheion.

Frequently asked Questions

What is the best way to get around Athens?

The best way to explore central Athens is a combination of walking and using the excellent Metro system. For direct, door-to-door service, airport and port transfers, or for traveling to areas not on the Metro line, a pre-booked transfer with a service like Aegean Taxi is the most comfortable and convenient option.

Is it easy to get a taxi in Athens?

Yes, Athens has a huge fleet of yellow taxis, but hailing one on the street during peak hours in busy areas can be a challenge. Using a booking app or pre-booking your ride is a much more reliable method. A service like Aegean Taxi offers the advantage of a guaranteed pickup time and a fixed price.

Should I rent a car in Athens?

Renting a car is strongly discouraged for visitors staying within Athens. The city has intense traffic, a complex road system, and parking is extremely scarce and expensive. The public transport system and taxis are far more efficient for getting around the city. A car is only useful if you plan multi-day trips outside of Athens.

How does the public transport system work in Athens?

Athens has a modern and integrated public transport network of metro, buses, and trams. The Metro is the fastest and easiest way for tourists to travel, as it connects all major sights like the Acropolis and Syntagma Square, as well as the airport and the Port of Piraeus. You can purchase multi-day tourist tickets for great value.
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