How do I get from the airport to Athens center?

See our transit guide above for all options: train, bus, taxi, and private transfer with prices and journey times.

Airport to Athens City Center — Transfer Options & Prices

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Getting from Athens International Airport (ATH) to the city center is straightforward, but knowing your options saves time, money, and stress. ATH is 20km northeast of Athens, served by multiple transport lines. Here’s a clear breakdown of all options, with real prices (in EUR) and times.

1. Train (Athens Airport Railway - AAR) The fastest, most reliable option. The AAR train runs directly from ATH to Athens Central Station (Syntagma Square) on the Athens Metro line. Trains depart every 15-20 minutes, 5am-11pm. Journey time: 35-40 minutes. Price: €8.50 one-way (buy at ticket machines or via app). Pros: Punctual, no traffic delays, covers most of the city center. Easy for families (stroller-friendly, frequent stops). Business travelers get there fast without traffic anxiety. Cons: Doesn’t stop at all neighborhoods (e.g., Plaka requires a 10-min metro transfer from Syntagma). Best for: Families (smooth ride, no traffic), business travelers (efficient), budget-conscious travelers wanting speed (cheaper than taxi).

2. Airport Bus (Athens Airport Bus - A2) The cheapest option. The A2 bus runs from the airport to Syntagma Square (same stop as the train). Buses leave every 30 minutes, 5am-11pm. Journey time: 45-60 minutes (traffic-dependent). Price: €5.50 (cash or credit card at bus stop; buy ticket from driver or kiosk). Pros: Very cheap, direct route, frequent service. Cons: Slower than train, gets crowded during peak times (especially with luggage), no air conditioning in summer (some buses have it, but not all). Best for: Budget travelers (students, solo backpackers), but avoid if you have heavy luggage or small kids (bus is cramped).

3. Taxi (Traditional or Ride-Hailing) Taxis are plentiful outside arrivals. Uber/Lyft also operate. Fare: €25-35 to Syntagma (includes €3.50 airport surcharge). Journey time: 30-45 minutes (traffic varies). Pros: Door-to-door, no transfers, great for groups or heavy luggage. Ride-hailing apps (Uber) have fixed fares. Cons: Expensive for solo travelers. Traffic can add 20+ minutes (especially after 6pm). Drivers might not speak English. Best for: Families with strollers/suitcases, business travelers needing to head straight to a hotel (no transfers), groups of 3+ (cost-per-person drops).

4. Private Transfer Pre-booked services like Welcome Pickups or Athens Airport Transfers. Price starts at €45 (standard car for 3 people; €60 for 4-5). Journey time: 30-45 minutes (same as taxi). Pros: Professional driver, meet-and-greet service, no waiting, handles luggage. Usually include water/phone charging. Cons: Most expensive option, requires advance booking (book 24h+ ahead). Best for: Business travelers (time-sensitive, no stress), families wanting a start (e.g., parents with kids and bags), or groups traveling together.

Families with kids/luggage: The train (AAR) is the top pick. It’s stress-free, avoids traffic, and the station is accessible. The bus is too slow and crowded with strollers; taxi is pricey but doable for 3+ people. Private transfer is overkill unless you’re staying in a luxury hotel.

Budget travelers (solo/backpackers): The A2 bus is unbeatable at €5.50. It’s direct, cheap, and gets you to the center. Skip the train (€8.50) unless you’re in a hurry. Avoid taxis unless you have a group.

Business travelers: The train (AAR) is ideal for speed and reliability. If you have heavy luggage or need to reach a specific business district (like Kolonaki), a private transfer (€45+) is worth it for no delays or stress.

Don’t pay for airport shuttles sold by "agents" at arrivals—they’re scams (often €15-20 for a bus that costs €5.50). Stick to official options: - Train: Buy tickets at the station (look for "ATH" or "AAR" machines). - Bus: Pay €5.50 cash or card on the bus (no pre-purchase needed). - Taxi: Use the meter (or app) – never agree to a flat rate. - Private transfer: Book online before arrival (e.g., via Welcome Pickups or GetYourGuide).

• Train: Arrive at ATH at 8:00am, take 8:15am train → reach Syntagma at 8:50am. • Bus: Arrive at 9:00am, take 9:00am bus → reach Syntagma at 9:50am (traffic delay). • Taxi: Arrive at 10:00am, wait 5 mins for taxi → reach Syntagma at 10:40am (traffic). • Private transfer: Booked ahead, driver meets you at arrivals → reach hotel at 10:30am.

The train is the sweet spot: fast, cheap, and reliable for most travelers. Budget travelers save €3+ by taking the bus instead of the train, but lose 15-20 minutes. Families and business travelers should skip the bus for the train or private transfer. Taxis are only worth it if you’ve got a group or heavy luggage. Athens isn’t a city where you’ll save money by skipping the train or bus—these options are designed to be affordable and efficient. Just avoid scams, book transfers early, and you’ll breeze into the city center without a headache.

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Flavia's Personal Notes — Athens

The Acropolis at opening time (8am) is a different experience than at noon — almost empty. Plaka is touristy but Monastiraki flea market is genuinely interesting. Souvlaki at O Kostas near Syntagma Square — tiny place, best I've had. The metro stations have actual archaeological exhibits.

— Flavia Voican, who has actually visited Athens