How To Get From Athens Airport to City Center: Bus, Metro, or Taxi?

Planning a trip to Athens?

Getting from Athens Airport to the city center is surprisingly easy and budget-friendly, too.

There are several ways to get from Athens International Airport into the city, and each one suits a different type of traveller.

When I visited Athens, I took the bus on arrival and the metro when departing, so I’ve tried both options firsthand.

I’m sharing everything you need to know about each, including the mistake that got me fined for buying the wrong ticket (and exactly how you can avoid it).

Whether you’re a budget backpacker, a first-timer, or visiting Athens on a short city break, keep reading for all your Athens Airport transport options.

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Athens Airport to City Center: Overview

There are 3 main ways to get from Athens Airport to the city center: bus, metro, or taxi.

If you don’t have time to read the whole guide, you can compare your Athens Airport transport options below –

	💰	⏰	📅
Metro Line 3 (Blue)	€9	40 mins	every 30 mins 6:30-23:30
X95 Bus	€5.50	40-60 mins	24/7
Taxi (book here)	€40-€55	25 mins	24/7

For the best balance of convenience and affordability, I would recommend taking the Metro Line 3.

If you’re looking for complete convenience, why not book a rental car? Check out Discover Cars for affordable car rental in Athens.

Athens Airport Metro (M3 Line): Best All-Rounder

If you want a balance of speed, convenience, and affordability, the Athens Airport Metro is the best way to reach the city center.

You’ll need to take Metro Line 3 (Blue Line), with direct connections to Syntagma and Monastiraki.

⚠️ Make sure that you buy the specific airport ticket, and not a regular Athens city ticket, as you will be fined (like I was).

➡️ Further reading: 24 Hours in Athens: Ultimate 1-Day Itinerary For First-Timers

Athens Airport Bus (X95): Cheapest Option

If you’re traveling on a budget or arriving late at night, the X95 bus is the most cost-effective way into the city.

Buses depart from outside arrivals (between Exit 4 & Exit 5), and you can buy tickets at the little kiosk – you can pay by card here.

The bus will drop you at Syntagma Square.

Is there a shuttle from Athens Airport to city center?

The Athens airport bus service acts as the airport’s 24/7 shuttle service into the city center.

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Athens Airport Taxi or Private Transfer: Fastest Option

If you want to get from Athens Airport to Athens in the fastest way, or perhaps if you are traveling as a group, a taxi or private transfer would be the best option.

This takes about 25-30 minutes.

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Taxi

• Fixed daytime rate: €40
• Fixed nighttime rate: €55 (after midnight)

Taxis queue directly outside the arrivals hall and are easy to find at any hour.

Private transfer

A pre-booked transfer can be a cheaper option and also offers:

✅ Book your private transfer in advance here from €28 per person

• Meet-and-greet service
• Guaranteed price
• No waiting in line
• English-speaking drivers

It’s ideal for late-night arrivals, families, or travellers wanting a smooth start to their trip.

Uber

Uber operates in Athens, but only with licensed taxis.

It costs the same as a regular taxi, but booking through the app is convenient and a secure option for solo travelers.

Getting From Athens Airport to Athens: My Recommendation

For most travelers, getting from Athens airport to the city, the metro is the best balance of cost, speed, and ease. It drops you right in the historic center with no traffic concerns.

If you’re a budget traveller, I’d go for the X95 bus, which is what I did when I arrived.

If comfort is your main priority, or you’re visiting with family or lots of luggage, a taxi or private transfer is the easiest option (book in advance here).

Best option for early departures or late arrivals?

If you’re departing early in the morning or arriving past midnight, the X95 bus is a good option for budget travelers.

Again, if you prefer comfort and convenience, I’d recommend a taxi or private transfer (book here).

➡️ You might also like 13 Incredible Free Things To Do in Athens: Budget Travel Guide

Where to stay in Athens

There are many amazing places to stay in Athens, depending on your budget and the type of traveller you are.

Here are the top 3 neighbourhoods I would recommend –

• Plaka – Athens’ oldest neighborhood, charming streets, close to main attractions
• Monastiraki – lots of markets, lively vibe, center of the action
• Kerameikos / Thisio – on the outskirts of the historic center, more budget-friendly options

Pink Pineapple | Best Athens Hostel

Pink Pineapple is a fantastic option for backpackers or budget travellers – this is where I stayed on my trip.

Here’s what I love about it –

• Clean & spacious dorms with capsule beds
• Rooftop with a bar, jacuzzi, and amazing views of the Acropolis
• Communal kitchen for cooking meals
• Great location – 10-minute walk to the historic center

Dorms start from €18 per night.

NOOS Acropolis | Mid-Budget Hotel in Athens

NOOS Acropolis is an amazing mid-budget hotel in Athens with top-notch amenities and an unbeatable location.

Here’s what I love about it –

• Simple & stylish rooms with modern amenities
• Rooms & rooftop terrace with Acropolis views
• Unbeatable location in Plaka

Rooms start from €140 per night.

Athens Tours

If you’d prefer to explore Athens with a tour, here are some highly-rated tours I would recommend –

FAQs

What is the cheapest way to get from Athens Airport to city?

The cheapest way to get from Athens Airport to Athens center is by X95 bus.

This Athens Airport bus costs €5.50 and departs roughly every 30 minutes.

Is the metro in Athens Airport?

Yes, the airport has a dedicated M3 Blue Line metro station connected by a walkway from arrivals.

How often does the X95 run?

Every 30 minutes, 24/7.

How easy is it to get a taxi from Athens Airport?

Very easy. There is always a taxi queue outside arrivals with fixed fares.

You can also use Uber or book a private transfer in advance (here).

Can I pay for the X95 bus with card?

Yes, the kiosk outside arrivals accepts card when booking the bus.

Athens Airport Transport: Final Thoughts

Getting from Athens Airport to the city center is simple, affordable, and straightforward.

Whether you prefer the speed of the metro, the budget-friendly bus, or the convenience of a taxi, there’s an option to suit every traveller.

If you have made the journey from Athens Airport to city center, I would love to hear from you – drop me a comment below or reach out to me on Instagram or Pinterest and let me know how it was!