26.02.2026
Greece Achieves Record Tourism Numbers in 2025
BlogGetting from Athens International Airport to the city centre is straightforward once you understand your options. For property buyers visiting Greece for viewings or legal appointments, the metro is the most reliable and cost-effective route, and knowing the pricing and journey times in advance removes one logistical uncertainty from what can be a busy trip.
Metro Line 3 (Blue Line)
Metro Line 3 connects Athens International Airport directly to the city centre, with the journey to Syntagma Square taking approximately 40 minutes. Airport trains run every 36 minutes, seven days a week.
Ticket prices (2026):
Single one-way ticket: €9.00
Return ticket: €16.00
3-Day Tourist Ticket: €20.00, includes unlimited travel on all public transport plus one return trip to/from the airport
Reduced fares of 50% apply to children aged 6-18, students with a valid card, and seniors aged 65 and over. Children under 6 travel free.
Note that standard city tickets (€1.20 for 90 minutes) are not valid on the airport section of Line 3, you must purchase a specific airport ticket.
Tickets can be purchased at automatic ticket vending machines at the airport metro station, which have an English language interface and accept both cards and cash. Staffed ticket counters are also available at metro stations for those who prefer personal assistance.
Key stops along the route
The line serves several stops relevant to property buyers and investors visiting Athens:
Syntagma Square, the heart of Athens' business district, with connections to Lines 2 and 1
Evangelismos, serving the Kolonaki area
Monastiraki, connections to Line 1 and proximity to historical sites
Piraeus, for those connecting to ferry services to the islands
Express bus alternative
The X95 express bus connects Athens Airport to Syntagma Square in approximately one hour and costs €5.50. This is a slower option than the metro but can be more convenient depending on your final destination and luggage requirements.
Taxi
Taxis from Athens Airport to the city centre cost aproximately €40 from 5am to midnight, and €55 from midnight to 5am. The rate is determined by the time of arrival at the destination and includes all applicable surcharges. Taxis are available outside Exit 3 of the Arrivals Level. Athens taxis are yellow and drivers are required by law to use a taximeter and issue a receipt.
Connection to the Peloponnese and beyond
For property buyers continuing beyond Athens, the suburban railway (Proastiakos) connects the airport to Larissis Station, the central Athens railway station. From there, onward rail connections are available to other parts of Greece, including the Peloponnese.
For the most current ticket prices and timetables, check the official OASA website at oasa.gr.
