If you’re landing at Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos and wondering how to get to the city center, don’t worry, it’s easier than it might seem.
The airport is well connected, and after several trips to Athens, I’ve tried pretty much every option: metro, bus, and taxi.
The airport is located about 20 kilometers from central Athens, and choosing the best way to get there really depends on a few things: your budget, your arrival time, and whether you’re traveling solo or with others.
Each option has its pros and cons. That said, I almost always go for the metro. It’s reliable, comfortable, and gets you right into the heart of the city.
How to Get from Athens Airport to city center
1. Metro, My Go-To Option (Fast and Hassle-Free)
Whenever I land in Athens during the day, I head straight for the metro. It’s by far the easiest and most straightforward way to reach the city center.
Getting there is simple: just follow the signs inside the airport, cross the street, and walk over a pedestrian bridge. In less than five minutes, you’ll be at the station.
From the airport, you can take Metro Line 3, which connects directly with key central areas like Monastiraki and Syntagma Square. These are not only major transport hubs but also some of the best areas to stay in Athens if it’s your first time in this city.
One thing I really like is how easy it is to follow the route, stops are clearly announced, so there’s little chance of getting lost. The journey takes around 45 minutes, which is pretty reasonable considering the distance.
Trains usually run from about 6:10 a.m. until just after midnight, with a frequency of roughly every 35–40 minutes. I always recommend checking the timetable again before your trip to make sure there haven’t been any last-minute changes.
Prices:
- One-way ticket: €9
- Round trip: €16 (valid for 30 days)
- 3-day tourist ticket: €20 (includes unlimited public transport plus a round trip to/from the airport)
2. Express Bus, The Cheapest Option (and Runs 24/7)
If you’re traveling on a budget, or landing in Athens in the middle of the night, the express bus is a really good option. I’ve used it a couple of times when arriving late, and honestly, it’s hard to beat for the price.
The bus stop is right outside the arrivals terminal, so you don’t have to go far. Just walk out, follow the signs, and you’ll find it easily.
What I like most is that it runs 24/7, which makes it perfect if your flight lands at an awkward hour when the metro isn’t running.
Ticket prices:
- Adults: €5.50
- Youth (7–18) and seniors (65+): €2.70
- Children under 6: free
- More info: web prices
There are several lines depending on where you’re heading:
- X95 – This is the one I usually take. It goes straight to Syntagma Square, right in the center (around 60 minutes).
- X93 – To the intercity bus station (about 65 minutes).
- X96 – To the Port of Piraeus, ideal if you’re catching a ferry (around 90 minutes).
- X97 – To Dafni metro station (about 45 minutes).
Buses run every 15 to 60 minutes depending on the time of day and the line.
The X95 is the most useful for most travelers. It drops you right in the heart of Athens, and for the price, it’s unbeatable, even if it’s not the fastest option.
More information: Oficial page
3. Taxi, The Most Comfortable Option
If you just want to get to your hotel with zero hassle, a taxi is probably the easiest option, especially after a long flight or if you’re carrying a lot of luggage.
I’ve taken taxis a few times when arriving late or when I simply didn’t feel like dealing with public transport. The good thing is that there’s a fixed fare from Athens airport to the city center, so you don’t have to worry about being overcharged.
Fixed rates:
- €40 between 5:00 a.m. and midnight
- €55 between midnight and 5:00 a.m.
The journey usually takes around 35 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic, so it’s also one of the fastest ways to get into the city.
One thing to keep in mind (I learned this the hard way): many taxis in Athens still don’t accept cards, so it’s a good idea to have some cash on you.
If you’re traveling with 3 or 4 people, the price per person ends up being quite reasonables, not that much more than the metro. I think it’s totally worth it for the convenience.
4. Private Transfer – Maximum Comfort, Zero Stress
If you want to keep things as easy as possible, booking a private transfer is hands down the most hassle-free option. I’ve used this a couple of times when arriving late at night, and it really makes a difference especially after a long or tiring flight.
The main advantage is simple: as soon as you walk out of arrivals, your driver is already there waiting for you with a sign. No queues, no figuring out transport, no stress. You just hop in and go straight to your hotel or apartment.
It’s particularly convenient if you’re landing at odd hours or visiting Athens for the first time and prefer everything arranged in advance. Prices are usually pretty similar to a night taxi, but with that extra peace of mind.
You can check prices here: Private transfers from Athens Airport
5. Car Rental – Only If You’re Exploring Beyond Athens
If you’re planning to stay only in Athens, I honestly wouldn’t recommend renting a car. The city has good public transport, and most of the main sights are either walkable or well connected.
That said, if your trip includes exploring beyond the city, then renting a car at the airport can be a great idea. I’ve done it on trips where I wanted more freedom, and it’s perfect for discovering places at your own pace.
Destinations like the Peloponnese or smaller towns and beaches are much easier to reach by car, and you’ll have total flexibility with your itinerary.
✅ My Personal Recommendation After Several Trips
After visiting Athens multiple times, this is what I usually recommend:
- Metro if you arrive during the day and want the best balance between speed and price
- Bus X95 if you’re on a budget or landing late at night
- Taxi or private transfer if you’re traveling in a group or just want maximum comfort
In the end, there’s no single “best” option, it really depends on your travel style. But the good news is that, whichever you choose, getting from Athens Airport to the city center is easy and straightforward.