Landing at Athens International Airport (ATH) and not sure how to reach your hotel, the city centre or your cruise ship at Piraeus? Here’s a clear, up-to-date rundown of every option, what it costs and how long it takes.
The quick answer
| Option | To city centre | Approx cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro (Line 3) | ~40 min | A few € per person | Light luggage, solo/budget |
| Express bus (X95) | ~60 min | A few € per person | Budget, 24/7 service |
| Taxi | ~40 min | Regulated flat fare | Quick door-to-door |
| Private transfer | ~40 min | Fixed price per car | Groups, luggage, cruises |
Prices for public transport and taxis are set by the authorities and change from time to time, so always check the current rate at the airport.
By metro
Metro Line 3 (blue) runs directly from the airport to the centre (Syntagma and Monastiraki) in about 40 minutes, and the line now continues all the way to Piraeus. Trains run roughly every 30 minutes from early morning to late evening. You buy a dedicated airport ticket (priced per person, with small discounts for two or three travelling together). It’s the cheapest comfortable option if you’re travelling light — just note the stairs, changes and the gap between trains if you’re in a hurry or have heavy cases.
By express bus
Four 24-hour express bus lines link the airport with the city. The X95 runs to Syntagma Square (city centre) and the X96 runs to Piraeus port — handy if you’re heading straight to a ferry or cruise. Buses are inexpensive and run through the night, but journeys are longer (the X96 can take 1–1.5 hours) and depend on traffic.
By taxi
Athens airport taxis charge a regulated flat fare to the city centre (a set day rate and a higher night rate), which makes the cost predictable. It’s fast and door-to-door, but a standard taxi fits a limited number of passengers and suitcases.
By private transfer
A private airport transfer is the easiest option if you’re in a group, have luggage, are arriving late, or simply want to step off the plane and go. With Escape Airport you get:
- A fixed price per car agreed up front — no meter, no surprises (from €63 for up to 3 passengers to most Athens hotels).
- Meet & greet in the arrivals hall with a name sign.
- Flight tracking, so a delayed flight never costs you the ride.
- An English- and German-speaking local driver.
Going straight to a cruise? (Piraeus)
Piraeus is about 50 km from the airport — typically 45–70 minutes by road. If you’re connecting to a cruise, timing matters: traffic around Athens can be heavy, and you don’t want to risk your sailing. Our Piraeus port ⇄ Athens Airport transfer is timed to your ship and your flight, with a meet at Gate E11 by the cruise terminals.
Want us to handle it? Message us on WhatsApp with your flight number and where you’re staying, and we’ll confirm a fixed price in minutes.