Overview
Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) is located 33 kilometres southeast of the city centre. It operates as a single integrated hub — a main terminal building and a satellite terminal connected by a covered air-bridge walkway.
Athens Larissa Station is the main intercity railway station of the Greek capital, serving Hellenic Train routes to Thessaloniki, Alexandroupoli, and other mainland destinations. It is directly served by Metro Line 2 and the Suburban Railway (Proastiakos), connecting it to both Athens Airport and Piraeus Port.
Port of Piraeus (PIR) is Greece’s busiest ferry hub, located 10 kilometres southwest of the city centre. It serves millions of passengers each year on routes to the Cyclades, Crete, the Dodecanese, and the Saronic Islands, and is a major cruise ship terminal.
Port of Rafina (RAF) is Athens’ second ferry port, located 30 kilometres east of the city centre and only 10 kilometres from Athens Airport. It is the main departure point for ferries to the northern Cyclades — Andros, Tinos, and Mykonos — and the most convenient port for travellers connecting directly from the airport.
Transfer Options
The following transport options connect Athens International Airport to the city centre:
The following transport options are available from/to Athens Larissa Station:
The following transport options connect Piraeus Port to the city centre:
The following transport options connect Rafina Port to the city centre and Athens Airport:
Greece experiences regular nationwide general strikes that suspend or severely reduce OASA bus services and STASY Metro and Tram services — sometimes announced only days in advance. On strike days, Metro typically operates reduced hours (09:00-17:00), buses run limited schedules or not at all, and ferries dock. Check STASY Urgent Announcements before travel, and keep Freenow or Uber as a backup option.
Luggage Storage
Third-party baggage storage and wrapping service inside the terminal. Also handles sporting equipment and oversized items. Confirm current rates and opening hours at the counter on arrival.
Hand-baggage-sized lockers operated by Hellenic Train in a designated area of the station building. Suitable for carry-on bags only — not full-size suitcases. Time-based pricing; confirm the current rate at the locker terminal.
Full-service luggage storage and baggage delivery counter inside the Agios Dionysios Passenger Terminal at Gate E3. Also offers point-to-point bag delivery to hotels and Athens Airport, and AEGEAN self check-in. Book online or walk in.
There are no staffed or self-service luggage storage facilities at Rafina Port at this time.
Visitor Cards & Passes
Athens uses the Ath.ena ticketing system — paper tickets (Ath.ena Ticket) or plastic smart cards (Ath.ena Card) loaded with any fare. For most visitors, the contactless tap-to-pay option is the simplest entry point.
Purchase tickets at the OASA kiosk between Exits 4 and 5 in the Arrivals hall, or from automatic machines at the Metro station inside the terminal building. The 3-Day Tourist Ticket is available at the airport kiosk.
Purchase tickets at the Hellenic Train ticket office inside Larissa Station or from STASY vending machines at the adjacent Larissa Metro station.
Purchase tickets from STASY vending machines at Piraeus Metro station (Dimotiko Theatro stop for Line 3; Piraeus stop for Line 1). Bus 040 tickets can be bought at a kiosk near the port exit or paid contactlessly on board.
Rafina Port has no Metro connection. Purchase KTEL bus tickets directly from the driver or at the small ticket kiosk near the bus stop outside the ferry terminal. The KTEL fare is separate from the Athens OASA network — standard Ath.ena cards are not valid on this route.
Day Pass (€4.10)
Valid for 24 hours from first validation. Covers all city buses, trolleybuses, tram, and Metro (Lines 1–3, urban section only). Also valid for the seasonal X80 Piraeus express bus. Not valid for airport express buses (X93, X95, X96, X97) or Metro travel to/from Athens Airport.
Source: OASA Ticket Prices5-Day Ticket (€8.20)
Valid for 5 × 24 hours. Covers city buses, trolleybuses, tram, and Metro (Lines 1–3, urban section only). Not valid for the Metro Line 3 Koropi–Airport section, airport express buses (X93, X95, X96, X97), or the seasonal X80 Piraeus express bus.
Source: OASA Ticket Prices3-Day Tourist Ticket (€20)
The most practical option for most short visits. Valid for 3 × 24 hours on all city buses, tram, Metro, and suburban railway (urban section). Also includes one round trip to/from Athens International Airport by Metro or express bus. Both airport journeys must be completed within the 72-hour window.
Source: OASA Ticket PricesTap2Ride (Contactless)
Tap any Visa or Mastercard contactless card, phone, or watch (Apple Pay / Google Pay) directly at Metro gates, bus, tram, and trolleybus validators. The standard fare is €1.20 per 90-minute journey, with a daily cap of €4.10 — once reached, all further city rides that day are free.
The €9 airport fare is charged separately when tapping at the designated airport gates and does not count toward the daily cap.
Tap2Ride accepts Visa and Mastercard only (physical or digital wallet). AMEX, Maestro, JCB, and UnionPay are not supported. Use an Ath.ena Ticket or Card if your card is not accepted.
Children’s Fares
- Under-6s travel free on all Metro, bus, tram, and trolleybus services — no ticket or card required.
- Children aged 7-18 are eligible for a discounted single fare of €0.50 (vs €1.20 full price), but only with a personalised ATH.ENA CARD — not practical for short tourist visits.
- Day Pass, 5-Day, and 3-Day Tourist Tickets have no discounted child version; visitors travelling with children aged 7-18 pay adult fares for those passes.
Use the OASA Telematics app to track live bus arrivals and plan routes across the Metro, bus, and tram network.
Public Transit
Metro Line 3 (Blue Line)
The fastest link from Athens Airport to the city centre. Metro Line 3 runs directly from the airport to Syntagma Square (40 min) and Monastiraki (42 min). Trains run every 36 minutes, from 6:10 am to 11:30 pm daily. The airport ticket costs €9.00 one-way; a return ticket valid within 48 hours costs €16.00. Standard city tickets are not valid for the airport section.
Source: STASY Line 3 TimetablesExpress Airport Buses
Express buses depart from the Arrivals level outside the terminal (between Exits 4 and 5) and operate 24 hours a day. Single tickets cost €5.50 (€2.70 discounted) and are sold at the kiosk beside the bus stop or paid contactlessly on board.
- X95: Airport → Syntagma Square (~60 min)
- X96: Airport → Piraeus Port (~90 min, 24/7)
- X93: Airport → Kifissos Bus Terminal (~65 min)
- X97: Airport → Elliniko (~45 min)
Metro (Lines 1 & 2)
Larissa Metro station (Line 2, Red) is directly adjacent to the station building. Line 2 runs from Anthoupoli to Elliniko, serving Syntagma, Acropolis, and Omonia. Line 1 (ISAP/Green) connects at Attiki, Omonia, and Monastiraki, continuing to Piraeus Port.
The Metro runs from 5 am to midnight daily (until 2 am on Fridays, all night on Saturdays). Trains run every 5–6 minutes at peak hours. Standard city fare: €1.20 (90-minute ticket, valid for all transfers).
Source: STASY Metro TimetablesSuburban Railway (Proastiakos)
The Suburban Railway (Proastiakos) connects Larissa Station directly to Athens Airport (~45 min, with a transfer at Doukissis Plakentias) and Piraeus Port. Trains run every 15–25 minutes from 4:30 am to 11 pm daily. Purchase a dedicated airport ticket (€9) for the full airport run.
Source: This is AthensBuses & Trolleybuses
The OASA bus and trolleybus network covers the wider city. Most routes operate from 5 am to midnight; a small number of routes run all night on Saturdays. Check live arrivals via the OASA Telematics app or website.
Metro Line 1 (Green — Ilektrikos)
The oldest and most straightforward link from Piraeus Port to the city centre. Trains depart from Piraeus station (a short walk from many ferry terminals — up to 20 minutes from the cruise terminals) and reach Monastiraki in about 20 minutes, with onward connections at Omonia and Attiki. Trains run every 5–8 minutes from 5:30 am to 00:30 am daily. Fare: €1.20 (90-minute ticket, valid for transfers).
Source: This is Athens — Piraeus PortMetro Line 3 (Blue Line)
Departs from Dimotiko Theatro station, adjacent to Piraeus harbour, and reaches Syntagma Square in 20 minutes, continuing all the way to Athens Airport (~55 min, €9 airport fare). Line 3 runs every 6–10 minutes from 5:30 am to 00:30 am. Fare to city centre: €1.20. The airport section requires a separate €9 ticket.
Source: STASY Metro TimetablesBus 040 (24/7)
The night owl option. Bus 040 runs around the clock from a stop near the port exit to Syntagma Square, taking about 50–60 minutes depending on traffic. Frequency is every 8–15 minutes during the day and every 20–30 minutes late at night. Fare: €1.20 (same 90-minute ticket). Tickets from kiosks near the stop or by contactless payment on board.
Source: This is Athens — Piraeus PortExpress Bus X80 (Seasonal)
Seasonal express service running May through October, 07:00–21:30, every 30 minutes. Stops include the Acropolis and Syntagma Square (~30 min). Ticket: €4.10 (valid as a 24-hour day pass on all city buses, tram, and Metro). Departs from clearly marked stops at Terminal A and B.
Source: This is Athens — Piraeus PortTram (T6 & T7)
The Athens tram has two lines serving the coastal strip south of Piraeus. T7 runs from the Piraeus port area (Agia Triada / Akti Posidonos) south along the coast to Asklipieio Voulas in Voula. T6 runs from Pikrodafni north to Syntagma Square. Reaching Syntagma from the Piraeus port area by tram requires boarding T7, riding south to the Pikrodafni transfer stop, then switching to T6 — total journey time is approximately 60–70 minutes. The tram is more practical for the coastal beach suburbs (Faliro, Glyfada, Voula) than for the city centre. Fare: €1.20 (standard flat rate). Trams run 05:30–01:00 daily (01:30 on Fridays and Sundays; 24 hours every Saturday).
Source: STASY Tram TimetablesKTEL Attikis Bus
The only public transport link between Rafina Port and central Athens. Buses depart hourly from a stop right outside the ferry terminal and travel to Pedion Areos (Pedion tou Areos park) via Nomismatokopio Metro Station (Line 3), where onward connections to Syntagma and the Airport are available. Journey time: 45–90 minutes depending on traffic. Fare: €2.40, payable to the driver or at the kiosk. Operates roughly 5:30 am – 10:00 pm; confirm the last bus before travelling late.
There is no metro connection at Rafina Port. Travellers arriving late or with heavy luggage should use a taxi or pre-booked transfer.
Source: Greek Ferry Travel — Rafina PortOfficial Taxi
Official Athens taxis are yellow and display a “TAXI” sign on the rooftop.
The taxi rank is located at Exit 3 of the Arrivals level and operates 24/7.
Fixed fare to Athens city centre:
| Time window | Fare |
|---|---|
| Day — Mon–Sun 05:00–24:00 | €40 |
| Night — Mon–Sun 00:00–05:00 | €55 |
The fare includes all surcharges. The tariff that applies is determined by the time of arrival at the destination, not departure.
AIA – Taxi & Private TransportationTaxis at Piraeus Port do not have a single central rank — yellow cabs line up at the exit of each major ferry gate. Drivers will approach as you leave the gangway.
Fares to Athens city centre are metered:
| Time window | Estimated fare |
|---|---|
| Day — 05:00–24:00 | €30–€40 |
| Night — 00:00–05:00 | €40–€55 |
Journey takes 25–40 minutes depending on traffic. Always confirm the meter is running before departure.
At the cruise terminals (Gates E11/E12), drivers may offer fixed prices well above the metered rate — use only metered yellow taxis or order through the Uber app.
Piraeus Port – Getting There (Santorini Dave)A formal taxi rank operates at the top of the port, near the terminal entrance. Fares to Athens city centre are metered:
| Time window | Estimated fare |
|---|---|
| Day — 05:00–24:00 | €50–€70 |
| Night — 00:00–05:00 | €65–€85 |
The journey takes 45–75 minutes depending on traffic. Rafina is approximately 30 km from central Athens.
Rafina Ferry Port Guide (Greek Ferry Travel)Taxi drivers are legally required to accept card payments, but some claim their POS terminal is broken to pressure passengers into paying cash. Confirm card acceptance before loading luggage. Always ask for a printed receipt.
Rideshare
Head to Exit 4 on the Arrivals level. The designated Uber controlled pick-up zone is directly opposite the exit. Follow directions in the Uber app after requesting a ride.
Uber and Bolt dispatch licensed yellow taxis at Piraeus Port. There is no dedicated app pickup zone — open the app, enter your destination, and meet your driver at the exit of your ferry gate. FreeNow also connects to local taxi fleets at the port.
Uber, Bolt and FreeNow all dispatch licensed taxis to Rafina Port. Meet your driver at the port entrance, near the taxi rank at the top of the port.
In Greece, Uber, FreeNow and Bolt all operate exclusively through local licensed taxi drivers. Prices match official regulated rates — the main benefit is cashless payment and in-app tracking.
Use FreeNow (formerly Beat) for the widest driver availability in Athens — it has the largest fleet of licensed taxis in the city. Bolt launched in Athens in January 2025 and often runs new-user promotions. Uber is the best choice at the airport itself, with a dedicated pickup zone opposite Exit 4.
ATMs and Currency
Greece uses the Euro (EUR). Avoid Euronet and standalone kiosks — they apply unfavourable exchange rates and high fees.
ATMs are available throughout both the Arrivals and Departures areas and operate 24/7. Prefer Alpha Bank (near Exit 3 in the Arrivals area) or National Bank of Greece ATMs.
AIA – Currency ExchangeATMs are available in the port area, but their exact locations shift seasonally. Bring euros from Athens city centre before arriving — it is more reliable than searching for an in-port machine after a long crossing.
Piraeus Port – Getting There (Santorini Dave)There is no ATM inside Rafina port terminal. The nearest bank branches and ATMs are in Rafina town, a 5-minute walk from the port. Withdraw cash before travelling to Rafina if you need euros on arrival.
Rafina Ferry Port – FacilitiesWhen an ATM offers to convert the amount to your home currency, always decline and choose to be charged in Euros (EUR). Let your home bank handle the conversion to avoid fees of up to 10–13%.
Accessibility & Safety
Accessibility
Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos provides free on-ground assistance to passengers with disabilities and reduced mobility (PRM) under EU Regulation 1107/2006. Notify your airline at least 48 hours before departure. The Assistance Services Coordination Office is staffed 24/7 at the Departures Level next to Entrance 1. Designated contact points are located at Entrance 2 (Departures), Entrance 4 (Arrivals), and at the Suburban Railway Station inside the terminal. All public areas are wheelchair accessible; elevators feature Braille floor-selection buttons and tactile paths guide visually impaired passengers from drop-off to the check-in hall.
A sign language video relay service (powered by the EVENLY platform, in partnership with the Union of Deaf People) is available at the Coordination Office and central Information Desks — Mon–Fri 09:00–17:00.
AIA Assisted TravelSafety
Unofficial Taxi: The legal fixed rates from the airport to central Athens are €40 (day, 05:00–24:00) and €55 (night, 00:00–05:00) — posted on signs at the official taxi queue outside Exit 3. Ignore anyone approaching you inside the terminal or quoting a different rate. Never share a taxi with a stranger who offers to split the cost.
Tourist Police: Call 171 (English-speaking, 24/7) for taxi overcharges, restaurant disputes, or any tourist-related incident. They can mediate and assist with police reports.
Accessibility
Athens Larissa Station has wheelchair lifting machines installed on platforms. For intercity IC trains (e.g. Athens–Thessaloniki), arrange PRM assistance at least 24 hours in advance by calling Hellenic Train Customer Care at +30 2130 121 121. On Proastiakos suburban lines (including the airport run), portable boarding ramps are available without advance booking.
Hellenic Train PRMSafety
Neighbourhood at Night: The Metaxourgio district around Larissa Station can feel unsettled after dark. Walk directly to the Metro entrance (Line 2, Larissa Station stop) or use a taxi rather than waiting outside the station at night.
Pickpockets: Stay alert on crowded platforms and in the station concourse; keep bags in front of you and zip pockets closed before boarding.
Accessibility
Piraeus Port operates under EU Regulation 1177/2010, which entitles passengers with disabilities and reduced mobility to free assistance. Notify your ferry company at least 48 hours before departure to arrange priority boarding, ramp assistance, and cabin allocation.
Wheelchair-accessible gangways are available at most berths, though gangway angle varies with the tide — passengers using wheelchairs should request staff assistance even if they normally board independently. The cruise terminal’s South Terminal has a dedicated assistance desk on the ground floor (blue wheelchair symbol sign).
Disabilities & Ferry Travel in GreeceSafety
Taxi Overcharging: Piraeus Port has a well-documented history of unlicensed or off-meter taxis targeting arriving passengers, especially at the cruise terminal. Only use official yellow metered taxis; insist the meter is running. Verified overcharge incidents have seen passengers charged €80–€160 for rides that should cost €10–€15. Ignore any fixed-rate offers made by strangers at the terminal exit.
Pickpockets: The area around the ferry terminal exits is a known pickpocket hotspot during busy arrivals. Keep bags in front of you and zip all pockets before disembarking.
Report taxi disputes or other incidents to the Tourist Police: 171 (English-speaking, 24/7) or the in-terminal office at +30 210 4290664.
Accessibility
Rafina is a compact, single-terminal port where all ferries are reachable on foot from the entrance — significantly easier to navigate than Piraeus for passengers with mobility aids. EU Regulation 1177/2010 applies: contact your ferry company at least 48 hours in advance to arrange priority boarding and gangway assistance.
Accessible ramps and handrails are standard on the large vessels that operate from Rafina. If you use motorised mobility equipment, inform the operator before booking, as space may be restricted on smaller high-speed vessels.
Disabilities & Ferry Travel in GreeceSafety
Wind Cancellations: Rafina sits on the windward side of Attica and is more exposed than Piraeus. Meltemi winds (July–September) can cause delays or cancellations with little notice. Check sea conditions before travelling to the port; refunds for cancelled sailings must be claimed directly from the ferry operator.
General: Rafina town is quiet and low-risk. Standard precautions apply — keep bags secure at busy summer departures.
The historic centre of Athens has extensive uneven cobblestone surfaces. Use luggage with larger wheels and wear sturdy shoes when walking from the station to nearby accommodation.
Essential Services
Lost & Found
Terminal items: The Lost Property Office — operated by the Hellenic Police — is on the Arrivals Level, directly across from Exit 3, open 24 hours a day. If you cannot collect in person, the Deliverback service can retrieve and ship your item to your door for a fee (submit a claim via the AIA website).
Items forgotten on the aircraft: Contact your airline’s own Lost & Found counter in the Baggage Reclaim Area.
AIA Lost PropertyFirst Aid
First Aid Station at Gate 8 — fully equipped, open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
AIA Assisted TravelPharmacy
Full pharmacy on the Arrivals Level of the Main Terminal Building, between Entrances 4 and 5.
AIA Assisted TravelLost & Found
Submit a lost item report via the Lost Items online form on the Hellenic Train Contact page, or call 14511 (daily 07:00–21:00; call charges apply). Hellenic Train Customer Service will search for the item and notify you if it is found.
Hellenic Train ContactLost & Found
For items lost in the port area, contact the Piraeus Port Authority (PPA): +30 210 4550000 (Mon–Fri 08:30–14:30). Outside office hours the on-call duty supervisor is reachable at +30 210 4060881. Items left on board a ferry should be reported directly to your ferry operator — each company manages its own lost property.
Piraeus Port Authority — ContactOther
A Tourist Police office is permanently staffed inside the cruise passenger terminals: +30 210 4290664. For any passenger-related incident — disputes, lost documents, or theft — call them or use the general Tourist Police hotline 171 (English-speaking, 24/7).
PPA Cruise TerminalLost & Found
Rafina Port has no central lost property office. For items lost in the port area, contact the Rafina Port Authority at +30 2294321200, located approximately 200 metres from the passenger terminals. Items left on a ferry should be reported directly to the ferry operator.
Rafina Port — Useful InfoFirst Aid
The nearest medical facility is Rafina Medical Center in the town of Rafina, a short distance from the port: +30 2294320011. For emergencies dial 166 (ambulance) or 112 (pan-European emergency number).
Rafina Port — Useful InfoOverview
Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) is located 33 kilometres southeast of the city centre. It operates as a single integrated hub — a main terminal building and a satellite terminal connected by a covered air-bridge walkway.
Athens Larissa Station is the main intercity railway station of the Greek capital, serving Hellenic Train routes to Thessaloniki, Alexandroupoli, and other mainland destinations. It is directly served by Metro Line 2 and the Suburban Railway (Proastiakos), connecting it to both Athens Airport and Piraeus Port.
Port of Piraeus (PIR) is Greece’s busiest ferry hub, located 10 kilometres southwest of the city centre. It serves millions of passengers each year on routes to the Cyclades, Crete, the Dodecanese, and the Saronic Islands, and is a major cruise ship terminal.
Port of Rafina (RAF) is Athens’ second ferry port, located 30 kilometres east of the city centre and only 10 kilometres from Athens Airport. It is the main departure point for ferries to the northern Cyclades — Andros, Tinos, and Mykonos — and the most convenient port for travellers connecting directly from the airport.
Transfer Options
The following transport options connect Athens International Airport to the city centre:
The following transport options are available from/to Athens Larissa Station:
The following transport options connect Piraeus Port to the city centre:
The following transport options connect Rafina Port to the city centre and Athens Airport:
Greece experiences regular nationwide general strikes that suspend or severely reduce OASA bus services and STASY Metro and Tram services — sometimes announced only days in advance. On strike days, Metro typically operates reduced hours (09:00-17:00), buses run limited schedules or not at all, and ferries dock. Check STASY Urgent Announcements before travel, and keep Freenow or Uber as a backup option.
Luggage Storage
Third-party baggage storage and wrapping service inside the terminal. Also handles sporting equipment and oversized items. Confirm current rates and opening hours at the counter on arrival.
Hand-baggage-sized lockers operated by Hellenic Train in a designated area of the station building. Suitable for carry-on bags only — not full-size suitcases. Time-based pricing; confirm the current rate at the locker terminal.
Full-service luggage storage and baggage delivery counter inside the Agios Dionysios Passenger Terminal at Gate E3. Also offers point-to-point bag delivery to hotels and Athens Airport, and AEGEAN self check-in. Book online or walk in.
There are no staffed or self-service luggage storage facilities at Rafina Port at this time.
Visitor Cards & Passes
Athens uses the Ath.ena ticketing system — paper tickets (Ath.ena Ticket) or plastic smart cards (Ath.ena Card) loaded with any fare. For most visitors, the contactless tap-to-pay option is the simplest entry point.
Purchase tickets at the OASA kiosk between Exits 4 and 5 in the Arrivals hall, or from automatic machines at the Metro station inside the terminal building. The 3-Day Tourist Ticket is available at the airport kiosk.
Purchase tickets at the Hellenic Train ticket office inside Larissa Station or from STASY vending machines at the adjacent Larissa Metro station.
Purchase tickets from STASY vending machines at Piraeus Metro station (Dimotiko Theatro stop for Line 3; Piraeus stop for Line 1). Bus 040 tickets can be bought at a kiosk near the port exit or paid contactlessly on board.
Rafina Port has no Metro connection. Purchase KTEL bus tickets directly from the driver or at the small ticket kiosk near the bus stop outside the ferry terminal. The KTEL fare is separate from the Athens OASA network — standard Ath.ena cards are not valid on this route.
Day Pass (€4.10)
Valid for 24 hours from first validation. Covers all city buses, trolleybuses, tram, and Metro (Lines 1–3, urban section only). Also valid for the seasonal X80 Piraeus express bus. Not valid for airport express buses (X93, X95, X96, X97) or Metro travel to/from Athens Airport.
Source: OASA Ticket Prices5-Day Ticket (€8.20)
Valid for 5 × 24 hours. Covers city buses, trolleybuses, tram, and Metro (Lines 1–3, urban section only). Not valid for the Metro Line 3 Koropi–Airport section, airport express buses (X93, X95, X96, X97), or the seasonal X80 Piraeus express bus.
Source: OASA Ticket Prices3-Day Tourist Ticket (€20)
The most practical option for most short visits. Valid for 3 × 24 hours on all city buses, tram, Metro, and suburban railway (urban section). Also includes one round trip to/from Athens International Airport by Metro or express bus. Both airport journeys must be completed within the 72-hour window.
Source: OASA Ticket PricesTap2Ride (Contactless)
Tap any Visa or Mastercard contactless card, phone, or watch (Apple Pay / Google Pay) directly at Metro gates, bus, tram, and trolleybus validators. The standard fare is €1.20 per 90-minute journey, with a daily cap of €4.10 — once reached, all further city rides that day are free.
The €9 airport fare is charged separately when tapping at the designated airport gates and does not count toward the daily cap.
Tap2Ride accepts Visa and Mastercard only (physical or digital wallet). AMEX, Maestro, JCB, and UnionPay are not supported. Use an Ath.ena Ticket or Card if your card is not accepted.
Children’s Fares
- Under-6s travel free on all Metro, bus, tram, and trolleybus services — no ticket or card required.
- Children aged 7-18 are eligible for a discounted single fare of €0.50 (vs €1.20 full price), but only with a personalised ATH.ENA CARD — not practical for short tourist visits.
- Day Pass, 5-Day, and 3-Day Tourist Tickets have no discounted child version; visitors travelling with children aged 7-18 pay adult fares for those passes.
Use the OASA Telematics app to track live bus arrivals and plan routes across the Metro, bus, and tram network.
Public Transit
Metro Line 3 (Blue Line)
The fastest link from Athens Airport to the city centre. Metro Line 3 runs directly from the airport to Syntagma Square (40 min) and Monastiraki (42 min). Trains run every 36 minutes, from 6:10 am to 11:30 pm daily. The airport ticket costs €9.00 one-way; a return ticket valid within 48 hours costs €16.00. Standard city tickets are not valid for the airport section.
Source: STASY Line 3 TimetablesExpress Airport Buses
Express buses depart from the Arrivals level outside the terminal (between Exits 4 and 5) and operate 24 hours a day. Single tickets cost €5.50 (€2.70 discounted) and are sold at the kiosk beside the bus stop or paid contactlessly on board.
- X95: Airport → Syntagma Square (~60 min)
- X96: Airport → Piraeus Port (~90 min, 24/7)
- X93: Airport → Kifissos Bus Terminal (~65 min)
- X97: Airport → Elliniko (~45 min)
Metro (Lines 1 & 2)
Larissa Metro station (Line 2, Red) is directly adjacent to the station building. Line 2 runs from Anthoupoli to Elliniko, serving Syntagma, Acropolis, and Omonia. Line 1 (ISAP/Green) connects at Attiki, Omonia, and Monastiraki, continuing to Piraeus Port.
The Metro runs from 5 am to midnight daily (until 2 am on Fridays, all night on Saturdays). Trains run every 5–6 minutes at peak hours. Standard city fare: €1.20 (90-minute ticket, valid for all transfers).
Source: STASY Metro TimetablesSuburban Railway (Proastiakos)
The Suburban Railway (Proastiakos) connects Larissa Station directly to Athens Airport (~45 min, with a transfer at Doukissis Plakentias) and Piraeus Port. Trains run every 15–25 minutes from 4:30 am to 11 pm daily. Purchase a dedicated airport ticket (€9) for the full airport run.
Source: This is AthensBuses & Trolleybuses
The OASA bus and trolleybus network covers the wider city. Most routes operate from 5 am to midnight; a small number of routes run all night on Saturdays. Check live arrivals via the OASA Telematics app or website.
Metro Line 1 (Green — Ilektrikos)
The oldest and most straightforward link from Piraeus Port to the city centre. Trains depart from Piraeus station (a short walk from many ferry terminals — up to 20 minutes from the cruise terminals) and reach Monastiraki in about 20 minutes, with onward connections at Omonia and Attiki. Trains run every 5–8 minutes from 5:30 am to 00:30 am daily. Fare: €1.20 (90-minute ticket, valid for transfers).
Source: This is Athens — Piraeus PortMetro Line 3 (Blue Line)
Departs from Dimotiko Theatro station, adjacent to Piraeus harbour, and reaches Syntagma Square in 20 minutes, continuing all the way to Athens Airport (~55 min, €9 airport fare). Line 3 runs every 6–10 minutes from 5:30 am to 00:30 am. Fare to city centre: €1.20. The airport section requires a separate €9 ticket.
Source: STASY Metro TimetablesBus 040 (24/7)
The night owl option. Bus 040 runs around the clock from a stop near the port exit to Syntagma Square, taking about 50–60 minutes depending on traffic. Frequency is every 8–15 minutes during the day and every 20–30 minutes late at night. Fare: €1.20 (same 90-minute ticket). Tickets from kiosks near the stop or by contactless payment on board.
Source: This is Athens — Piraeus PortExpress Bus X80 (Seasonal)
Seasonal express service running May through October, 07:00–21:30, every 30 minutes. Stops include the Acropolis and Syntagma Square (~30 min). Ticket: €4.10 (valid as a 24-hour day pass on all city buses, tram, and Metro). Departs from clearly marked stops at Terminal A and B.
Source: This is Athens — Piraeus PortTram (T6 & T7)
The Athens tram has two lines serving the coastal strip south of Piraeus. T7 runs from the Piraeus port area (Agia Triada / Akti Posidonos) south along the coast to Asklipieio Voulas in Voula. T6 runs from Pikrodafni north to Syntagma Square. Reaching Syntagma from the Piraeus port area by tram requires boarding T7, riding south to the Pikrodafni transfer stop, then switching to T6 — total journey time is approximately 60–70 minutes. The tram is more practical for the coastal beach suburbs (Faliro, Glyfada, Voula) than for the city centre. Fare: €1.20 (standard flat rate). Trams run 05:30–01:00 daily (01:30 on Fridays and Sundays; 24 hours every Saturday).
Source: STASY Tram TimetablesKTEL Attikis Bus
The only public transport link between Rafina Port and central Athens. Buses depart hourly from a stop right outside the ferry terminal and travel to Pedion Areos (Pedion tou Areos park) via Nomismatokopio Metro Station (Line 3), where onward connections to Syntagma and the Airport are available. Journey time: 45–90 minutes depending on traffic. Fare: €2.40, payable to the driver or at the kiosk. Operates roughly 5:30 am – 10:00 pm; confirm the last bus before travelling late.
There is no metro connection at Rafina Port. Travellers arriving late or with heavy luggage should use a taxi or pre-booked transfer.
Source: Greek Ferry Travel — Rafina PortArrival & Check-In
Arrive at least 2.5 hours before departure for Schengen and domestic flights, and 3 hours for non-Schengen and long-haul routes. Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos” has one main terminal and a connected satellite terminal — check your boarding pass for the correct area.
Self-service kiosks (CUSS) are available at the main terminal for printing boarding passes and baggage tags. If you checked in online and have no hold baggage, proceed directly to security. After dropping bags, move through to security promptly — queues grow fast during peak summer season.
July and August are extremely busy. Budget an extra 30 minutes above the standard lead times, especially for early morning and evening departure banks.
Arrive at Piraeus Port (PIR) at least 1 hour before your ferry’s scheduled departure if you are travelling as a foot passenger, and 1.5–2 hours if you are bringing a vehicle.
The port spans 12 numbered gates — the walk from one end to the other takes around an hour, so confirm your gate before leaving for the port. Check your ticket or your operator’s app, and verify against the electronic display boards at the port entrance on arrival. Gates can change due to traffic, so ask at the information desks if in doubt.
Most operators accept e-tickets and QR codes at the gangway. Some ferry companies require you to collect a physical boarding pass from their ticket office near the relevant terminal before boarding — check your confirmation email for instructions. During peak summer (July and August), allow an extra 30 minutes above the standard lead times.
Piraeus Port — Ferryhopper GuideArrive at Rafina Port (RAF) at least 1 hour before departure as a foot passenger, or 1.5–2 hours if you are travelling with a vehicle.
The terminal is compact: the pier is just a few metres from the port entrance, so finding your ramp is straightforward. Your ticket or the operator’s confirmation email will specify the collection point — travel agencies in Kamares (250 m from the terminals) sell and print tickets if needed. During the summer season the port fills up quickly; plan to arrive with time to spare.
Rafina Port - Ferryhopper GuideSecurity Controls
Security & Screening
Athens International Airport uses traditional X-ray screening — CT next-generation scanners are not yet deployed. Standard rules apply:
- Liquids must be in containers of 100 ml or less, placed in a single transparent resealable bag (max 1 L capacity, sealed flat).
- Laptops and tablets must be removed from your bag and placed in a tray separately.
- Remove your coat, jacket, and belt and place them in a separate tray.
- Loose items (keys, coins, phone) go in a basket before the metal detector.
Fast Lane is available at the main terminal security checkpoints for eligible passengers — access requires it to be printed on your boarding pass. Fast Lane is personal and does not extend to accompanying passengers.
ATH Security Control ProcedurePassport Control
Greece is in the Schengen Area. Passengers on Schengen and domestic routes do not pass through passport control.
For non-Schengen departures (e.g. flights to the UK, US, or other non-Schengen countries), non-EU and non-Schengen nationals are subject to the EU Entry/Exit System (EES), fully operational at Athens airport since April 2026. EES records biometric data (facial image and fingerprints) digitally — passport stamps are no longer used.
- First-time registration adds processing time. Allow an extra 15–20 minutes if this is your first EES check.
- EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens are exempt from EES checks.
VAT Refunds
Non-EU residents departing to a destination outside the European Union can claim a VAT refund on purchases made at participating Greek stores.
Before check-in: Bring your purchased items (unpacked and accessible for inspection) and the Tax Refund form to the Customs office, located opposite Check-in Counter 61 in the public access area. The stamp is only accepted after the check-in counters for your flight have opened. Items in hold baggage must be inspected here before you drop your bags.
After security: Collect your refund at a Global Blue or Planet desk inside the terminal:
- ONExchange desks in the Non-Schengen Departures area
- ONExchange desks in the Schengen Departures area
- Departures level of the Satellite terminal
If your final destination is outside the EU but you have a connecting flight through another EU country, you can only get the Customs stamp at the last EU airport before leaving the EU — not at Athens.
Accessibility & Safety
Accessibility
Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos provides free on-ground assistance to passengers with disabilities and reduced mobility (PRM) under EU Regulation 1107/2006. Notify your airline at least 48 hours before departure. The Assistance Services Coordination Office is staffed 24/7 at the Departures Level next to Entrance 1. Designated contact points are located at Entrance 2 (Departures), Entrance 4 (Arrivals), and at the Suburban Railway Station inside the terminal. All public areas are wheelchair accessible; elevators feature Braille floor-selection buttons and tactile paths guide visually impaired passengers from drop-off to the check-in hall.
A sign language video relay service (powered by the EVENLY platform, in partnership with the Union of Deaf People) is available at the Coordination Office and central Information Desks — Mon–Fri 09:00–17:00.
AIA Assisted TravelSafety
Unofficial Taxi: The legal fixed rates from the airport to central Athens are €40 (day, 05:00–24:00) and €55 (night, 00:00–05:00) — posted on signs at the official taxi queue outside Exit 3. Ignore anyone approaching you inside the terminal or quoting a different rate. Never share a taxi with a stranger who offers to split the cost.
Tourist Police: Call 171 (English-speaking, 24/7) for taxi overcharges, restaurant disputes, or any tourist-related incident. They can mediate and assist with police reports.
Accessibility
Athens Larissa Station has wheelchair lifting machines installed on platforms. For intercity IC trains (e.g. Athens–Thessaloniki), arrange PRM assistance at least 24 hours in advance by calling Hellenic Train Customer Care at +30 2130 121 121. On Proastiakos suburban lines (including the airport run), portable boarding ramps are available without advance booking.
Hellenic Train PRMSafety
Neighbourhood at Night: The Metaxourgio district around Larissa Station can feel unsettled after dark. Walk directly to the Metro entrance (Line 2, Larissa Station stop) or use a taxi rather than waiting outside the station at night.
Pickpockets: Stay alert on crowded platforms and in the station concourse; keep bags in front of you and zip pockets closed before boarding.
Accessibility
Piraeus Port operates under EU Regulation 1177/2010, which entitles passengers with disabilities and reduced mobility to free assistance. Notify your ferry company at least 48 hours before departure to arrange priority boarding, ramp assistance, and cabin allocation.
Wheelchair-accessible gangways are available at most berths, though gangway angle varies with the tide — passengers using wheelchairs should request staff assistance even if they normally board independently. The cruise terminal’s South Terminal has a dedicated assistance desk on the ground floor (blue wheelchair symbol sign).
Disabilities & Ferry Travel in GreeceSafety
Taxi Overcharging: Piraeus Port has a well-documented history of unlicensed or off-meter taxis targeting arriving passengers, especially at the cruise terminal. Only use official yellow metered taxis; insist the meter is running. Verified overcharge incidents have seen passengers charged €80–€160 for rides that should cost €10–€15. Ignore any fixed-rate offers made by strangers at the terminal exit.
Pickpockets: The area around the ferry terminal exits is a known pickpocket hotspot during busy arrivals. Keep bags in front of you and zip all pockets before disembarking.
Report taxi disputes or other incidents to the Tourist Police: 171 (English-speaking, 24/7) or the in-terminal office at +30 210 4290664.
Accessibility
Rafina is a compact, single-terminal port where all ferries are reachable on foot from the entrance — significantly easier to navigate than Piraeus for passengers with mobility aids. EU Regulation 1177/2010 applies: contact your ferry company at least 48 hours in advance to arrange priority boarding and gangway assistance.
Accessible ramps and handrails are standard on the large vessels that operate from Rafina. If you use motorised mobility equipment, inform the operator before booking, as space may be restricted on smaller high-speed vessels.
Disabilities & Ferry Travel in GreeceSafety
Wind Cancellations: Rafina sits on the windward side of Attica and is more exposed than Piraeus. Meltemi winds (July–September) can cause delays or cancellations with little notice. Check sea conditions before travelling to the port; refunds for cancelled sailings must be claimed directly from the ferry operator.
General: Rafina town is quiet and low-risk. Standard precautions apply — keep bags secure at busy summer departures.
The historic centre of Athens has extensive uneven cobblestone surfaces. Use luggage with larger wheels and wear sturdy shoes when walking from the station to nearby accommodation.
Essential Services
Lost & Found
Terminal items: The Lost Property Office — operated by the Hellenic Police — is on the Arrivals Level, directly across from Exit 3, open 24 hours a day. If you cannot collect in person, the Deliverback service can retrieve and ship your item to your door for a fee (submit a claim via the AIA website).
Items forgotten on the aircraft: Contact your airline’s own Lost & Found counter in the Baggage Reclaim Area.
AIA Lost PropertyFirst Aid
First Aid Station at Gate 8 — fully equipped, open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
AIA Assisted TravelPharmacy
Full pharmacy on the Arrivals Level of the Main Terminal Building, between Entrances 4 and 5.
AIA Assisted TravelLost & Found
Submit a lost item report via the Lost Items online form on the Hellenic Train Contact page, or call 14511 (daily 07:00–21:00; call charges apply). Hellenic Train Customer Service will search for the item and notify you if it is found.
Hellenic Train ContactLost & Found
For items lost in the port area, contact the Piraeus Port Authority (PPA): +30 210 4550000 (Mon–Fri 08:30–14:30). Outside office hours the on-call duty supervisor is reachable at +30 210 4060881. Items left on board a ferry should be reported directly to your ferry operator — each company manages its own lost property.
Piraeus Port Authority — ContactOther
A Tourist Police office is permanently staffed inside the cruise passenger terminals: +30 210 4290664. For any passenger-related incident — disputes, lost documents, or theft — call them or use the general Tourist Police hotline 171 (English-speaking, 24/7).
PPA Cruise TerminalLost & Found
Rafina Port has no central lost property office. For items lost in the port area, contact the Rafina Port Authority at +30 2294321200, located approximately 200 metres from the passenger terminals. Items left on a ferry should be reported directly to the ferry operator.
Rafina Port — Useful InfoFirst Aid
The nearest medical facility is Rafina Medical Center in the town of Rafina, a short distance from the port: +30 2294320011. For emergencies dial 166 (ambulance) or 112 (pan-European emergency number).
Rafina Port — Useful Info