Choosing Between Metro and Express Bus
Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) is well connected to both central Athens and the maritime ferry ports.
1. Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) - Fastest to Center
- Route: Airport directly to Syntagma, Monastiraki, and Piraeus Port.
- Duration: 40 minutes to Syntagma; 55 minutes to Piraeus.
- Frequency: Departs every 36 minutes from 06:30 to 23:30.
- Fare: €9.00 one-way (€16.00 return within 30 days).
- Verdict: Best during daytime hours for fast, smooth transit into the center.
2. Express Bus X95 & X96 - Best for Budget & 24-Hour Travel
- Express Bus X95 (Airport to Syntagma): Runs 24 hours a day every 15 to 20 minutes (takes 50 to 60 minutes, €5.50).
- Express Bus X96 (Airport to Piraeus Port): Runs 24 hours every 20 to 30 minutes directly to Piraeus ferry gates (takes 70 to 90 minutes, €5.50).
- Verdict: Half the price of the metro and operates around the clock, making it ideal for late flight arrivals or early 06:30 AM ferry departures.
3. Flat-Rate Airport Taxis
Official Athens taxis charge a fixed legal rate between the airport and the inner city ring: €40.00 daytime (05:00 to 24:00) and €55.00 night (24:00 to 05:00). Never negotiate higher.