Getting Around

Most tourist sites are within the city centre, which is easy to navigate on foot. However, Athens has an extensive public transport network consisting of buses, trolley buses, trams and a fast, three-line underground metro service. The metro and the tram network are especially useful for tourists. Transport is cheap, but often overcrowded, especially during rush hour (1 to 3pm). Most public transport operates until midnight, with a limited night bus and tram service operating along major routes. Although taxis are plentiful, it may be difficult to get one during rush hour. For this reason, it's not unusual to share the ride with other passengers. Taxis are inexpensive, but visitors should always check that the meter is on and set to the minimum fare. Drivers often attempt to overcharge tourists. Legitimate surcharges can increase the final bill, but these should be displayed on the dashboard.

Airports

Athens International Airport

The airport is situated 20 miles (33km) southeast of Athens city centre.

Athens International Airport (ATH)

Location

The airport is situated 20 miles (33km) southeast of Athens city centre.

Getting to the city

Metro Line 3 connects the airport with central Athens and four public bus routes link the facility to destinations in the greater area of Athens and Piraeus. Travellers can find transport day and night. Athens International is also connected to Athens Central Railway Station (Larissis Station) by the Suburban Rail line.

Time

GMT +2

Car rental

Avis, Hertz, Budget, Enterprise and Sixt are all represented at the airport.

Airport Taxis

Taxis can be found at the designated taxi-waiting area at Exit 3 of the main Arrivals level. The trip to the centre of Athens takes half an hour to an hour depending on traffic and is substantially more expensive at night.

Transfer between terminals

The two terminals are connected by a walkway.

Facilities

The airport has banks and ATMs, currency exchange services, a tax refund desk, travel agencies, conference facilities, a business centre, a tourist information desk, numerous shops and restaurants, and a food court.

Parking

Short and long-term parking is available in the airport. Short-term parking is on the arrivals level and costs €4.50 for the first hour (up to 20 minutes are free), while long-term parking is found across the access road in P3. Long-term parking costs €13 for the first day and €50 for a week. Long-term parking is connected to the terminal by a free shuttle.

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