Transport: Most tourist sites are within the city centre, which is easy to
get around on foot, however there is an extensive public transport
network consisting of buses, trolley buses, minibuses and a fast
new 3-line underground metro service that requires a standard
ticket for a 90-minute usage span. The metro is especially useful
to get to Piraeus to catch a boat to the islands. The metro
stations double as impressive archaeological art and artefact
galleries. Transport is cheap, but often overcrowded especially
during the siesta rush hour between 1pm and 3pm, and operates until
midnight; a limited night bus service operates along major routes.
Bus and metro tickets are not transferable, but a daily pass can be
used on both; single tickets or packets of 10 must be bought in
advance and validated when getting on. Although taxis are plentiful
it may be difficult to get one during the siesta rush hour, and it
is not unusual to share the ride with other passengers going in the
same direction. It is often easier to phone ahead for a radio cab.
Taxis are inexpensive, but always check that the meter is on and
set to the minimum fare of €1 as drivers will often attempt
to overcharge tourists - if its 'not working' look for another
taxi. Legitimate surcharges can increase the final bill, but these
should be displayed on the dashboard. Driving in Athens is not
recommended, there are new laws banning cars from the commercial
centre to reduce heavy traffic and pollution, and parking anywhere
is near impossible.
