By Bicycle
Even experienced cyclists might find Athens’ roads a challenge, with no cycle lanes, often reckless drivers and loads of hills – but some hardy locals do ride. A bike route runs from Thisio to the coast. A few outfits offer bicycle hire, such as Funky Rides.
By Bus & Trolleybus
Local express buses, regular buses and electric trolleybuses operate every 15 minutes from 5am to midnight. In lieu of maps, use Google Maps for directions or the trip planner at the website of the bus company, OASA (click ‘Telematics’). The most useful lines for tourists are trolleybuses 2, 5, 11 and 15, which run north from Syntagma past the National Archaeological Museum. For all buses, board at any door; swipe your ticket on validation machines. Express buses from the airport run 24 hours, and also require a dedicated ticket, purchased from a kiosk by the stop.
By Car & Motorcycle
Athens’ notorious traffic congestion, confusing signage, impatient drivers and narrow one-way streets make for occasionally nightmarish driving. Contrary to what you see, parking is actually illegal alongside kerbs marked with yellow lines, on footpaths and in pedestrian malls. Paid parking areas require tickets available from kiosks.
By Metro
The metro works well and posted maps have clear icons and English labels. Trains operate from 5.30am to 12.30am, every four minutes during peak periods and every 10 minutes off-peak. On Friday and Saturday, lines 2 and 3 run till 2.30am. Get information at www.stasy.gr. All stations have wheelchair access.
By Taxi
Athens’ taxis are excellent value and can be the key for efficient travel on some routes. But it can be tricky getting one, especially during rush hour. Make sure the meter is on. It can be much easier to use the mobile app Beat (www.thebeat.co/gr) or Taxiplon – you can pay in cash. Or call a taxi from dispatchers such as Athina 1, Enotita or Parthenon. For day trips, Athens Tour Taxi comes recommended.
By Train
Suburban rail is fast, but not commonly used by visitors – though it goes to the airport and as far as Piraeus and the northern Peloponnese. The airport–Kiato line (€14, 1½ hours) connects to the metro at Doukissis Plakentias and Neratziotissa. Two other lines cross the metro at Larisis station.
By Tram
Trams run from Syntagma, opposite the National Gardens, to the coast, then split: east to Voula (one hour) and west to Faliro (45 minutes), and is set to extend to Piraeus (but most visitors will prefer the faster metro). Service is from 5.30am to 1am Sunday to Thursday (every 10 minutes), and to 2.30am on Friday and Saturday (every 40 minutes). Ticket vending machines are on the platforms.
On Foot
Central Athens is compact and good for strolling, with narrow streets and a lovely pedestrian promenade. From Gazi in the west to the Byzantine & Christian Museum in the east, for example, takes only about 45 minutes – so you may find you need a transit pass very little or not at all. In summer, however, take the punishing sun into consideration.
