The last thing you want to do after a long flight is try to figure out how you will get to your hotel or ferry connection. These are all the ways you can get to and from Athens International Airport, including some that you can arrange in advance before you arrive.
Airport transfers by reservation
Don’t want to mess with a taxi at the last minute or while in a frazzled or jet-lagged state? You can arrange for a driver to be waiting for you. These car services will generally wait for you or forward you to a driver if your flight is delayed, making your trip as stress-free as possible.
Your driver will most likely be waiting with a nameplate sign just outside the luggage area, further relieving your stress. Prices vary, but are comparable to taking the metro, but much more convenient.
The service is generally available 24 hours a day, at least in theory, so be sure to check at the time of your reservation. The transfer can also be booked to go to or from Piraeus with easy connections to most of the island’s ferries. Remember to pack light, as taxis can only hold so much luggage.
Express buses
Cheap and relatively easy, airport buses are just outside Arrivals Gate 4 and the most cost-effective option. You can buy tickets at the ticket kiosk, but it can be very crowded.
When boarding, be sure to hold on to the straps if you are standing up, as you may lose your balance when the bus makes quick stops or sharp turns.
Taxis
Taxis line up every day waiting for customers in front of the arrivals hall gates. They are all public taxis, but once you are in the center of Athens there is a mix of public and private taxis. Public taxis can be shared as they are earned to pick up one additional person.
It is best to avoid private taxis as they may refuse to pick up passengers, they are more expensive than public taxis, and they also charge a fee for the call.
Your best option for taxi service should come as no surprise, as companies like Uber and Lyft continue their global expansion. With these taxis, you can see your fare in advance, choose whether to carpool, and since you don’t have to tip, you may worry about exchanging your money at another time.
Athens Airport Limousine Services
Sometimes just a limo will work, but keep in mind that some limo companies, while they may have a well-dressed driver, the car itself will be a luxury sedan that may live up to your idea of a ‘limo’ But given the Athenian streets, you might be quite happy with the sedan after a few laps through narrow aisles. While it’s probably an expensive indulgence for a single traveler, for multiple people it can be a relative bargain.
Continue to 5 of 7 below.
Shuttles del hotel
Some hotels in the Athens area offer transportation services to and from the Athens airport, and this can have a big impact on your travel day and the final cost of a particular hotel. Hotel shuttle services will generally arrive at a designated parking lot at the far end of the terminal. There are some travel agents on site at the Athens airport and they can help you find a hotel that offers an airport shuttle service.
Some small bed and breakfasts near the airport will not offer an ‘official’ shuttle service, but they may be willing to pick you up. It never hurts to ask, but there is also the possibility that this could fail at the last minute if no one is available to come pick you up, so keep this in mind before you book.
The Athens metro
Depending on your final destination in Athens, the Metro may be the best option for you. However, you should be aware that many stations have long stairs and dark elevators that can be difficult to navigate with luggage. Make sure to ask for a family ticket if you are traveling together with someone else, and you will save a euro or two.
Rental car
Athens International Airport has a row of international car rental offices, and if you are willing to drive, this is another way to get from the airport to your hotel or other destination.
The main roads leading from the airport are large modern highways, but you may encounter problems when exiting the main, well-marked roads and trying to find your hotel in the city center. This can be challenging in the dark or in your jet lag state and can be more difficult if you don’t read enough Greek to make out street signs. If you plan to drive, you must learn at least the basic Greek letters.
