Visiting Athens soon? One of the first things you’ll need to figure out is how to get from Athens Airport to Athens Center. Whether you're a budget traveler, a family on vacation, or someone chasing the history and flavors of Greece, this guide gives you clear and simple tips for making your way from the airport to the heart of Athens—especially to Plaka, the city’s oldest and most charming neighborhood.

Let’s break it down into the three easiest and most popular ways to travel from Athens International Airport to downtown Athens.

1. Hop on the Metro – Fast, Reliable, and Affordable

The metro is one of the most convenient ways to transfer to Athens from the airport. Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) is connected to the city center by Metro Line 3 (Blue Line).

How it works:

• Board at: Athens Airport Station (right outside the terminal)

• Direction: Towards Nikaia

• Travel time: Around 40 minutes to Syntagma Station

• Cost: €9 for a one-way adult ticket (discounts available for students, seniors, and children)

From Syntagma, it's just a 10-minute walk to Plaka—the cobbled streets, neoclassical houses, and cozy tavernas are waiting.

Why choose the metro?

• It’s direct and avoids traffic

• Runs frequently (every 30 minutes)

• Great for solo travelers or those without much luggage

Tip: Trains operate from 6:30 AM to around 11:30 PM. If your flight arrives late, consider a taxi or bus.

2. Take the Express Bus – Cheap and 24/7

If you’re landing late at night or early in the morning, the X95 express bus is a lifesaver. It runs 24 hours a day and takes you directly from Athens Airport to Syntagma Square, the city center.

Details:

• Route: Bus X95 – Airport to Syntagma

• Duration: 50 to 70 minutes (depending on traffic)

• Cost: €5.50 per person

• Tickets: Buy them at the ticket kiosk right outside the arrivals area or directly from the driver

Once you reach Syntagma, Plaka is just a short stroll away. The bus is especially handy if you’re on a budget or prefer not to deal with transfers or stairs.

Why it’s a good option:

• Runs all day and night

• Affordable and simple

• No need to carry your luggage up and down metro stairs

Tip: Hold onto your ticket throughout the ride—it may be inspected.

3. Grab a Taxi or Book a Private Transfer – Stress-Free and Direct

If you want a door-to-door transfer to Athens, taxis and pre-booked transfers are the way to go. This option is ideal if you're traveling with kids, heavy luggage, or just want to land and relax.

Taxi info:

• Pick-up point: Outside Arrivals Exit 3

• Flat rate: €40 (day), €55 (night – midnight to 5 AM)

• Travel time: 35 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic

Private Transfers:

• Book online ahead of time with companies like Welcome Pickups or your hotel

• Meet your driver at Arrivals with a name sign

• Cost: Around €40–€50 depending on your destination in Athens

This is the most comfortable way to get from Athens Airport to Plaka—no navigating public transport, no ticket lines, just straight to your hotel or Airbnb.

Why people choose it:

• Stress-free and personalized

• Great after a long flight

• Easy if you're unfamiliar with Athens

Tip: Always confirm your fare before you get in. Credit cards are accepted in most taxis, but it’s good to carry cash just in case.

Which Option Is Best for You?

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

Final Thoughts

Traveling from Athens Airport to Athens Center doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Whether you choose the metro, the bus, or a taxi, you’ll find the city welcoming and surprisingly easy to navigate.

If you're heading to Plaka, you'll be in the perfect spot to start your Athenian adventure. Walk under the Acropolis, sip Greek coffee in a hidden courtyard, and let the rhythm of old Athens ease you into your trip.

Athens is a city that blends the ancient with the modern, and your journey begins the moment you land. Choose your ride, transfer to Athens with ease, and let the adventure begin.

Need help planning your next steps in Athens? Let us know in the comments what you’d like to explore—whether it’s ruins, rooftop bars, or local eats in Plaka.