The Airport, the Artifacts, and Your First Taste of Greece

Let’s start right at the beginning. Chances are, you’ve just landed in Athens—which means your first brush with Greece isn’t the Parthenon, but Eleftherios Venizelos Airport. Not exactly ancient marble, I know, but even here, Greece wastes no time reminding you who she is.If you’ve got a bit of time before your transfer, head up to the second floor of the main terminal. There’s a small, rather striking little exhibit up there—archaeological finds unearthed during the airport’s construction. Imagine digging a hole for a parking garage and stumbling on history. That’s Greece for you.Right next to it, you’ll find a few pieces from the Acropolis Museum—like a movie trailer for the city you’re about to dive into. Take a deep breath; the air already carries a hint of myth.Welcome to Athens. A city where history doesn’t just begin—it is the beginning.

Now, let’s get you into town.

So, you’ve landed, exhaled, collected your bags, maybe grabbed a coffee (hopefully a Greek one)—time to make your way into the city.

Athens awaits.

There are five main ways to get from the airport to the center. Technically more, but some are better suited to the cast of an action movie than to weary travelers with suitcase wheels that don’t steer straight.

1. The Bus: budget-friendly and solid

This is your regular airport bus. Around €6 a ticket, and it gets the job done.

I’d recommend it in two particular cases:

You’re traveling on a budget

Or it’s the middle of the night

At night there’s no traffic, no blistering heat, and the savings over a nighttime taxi fare are impressive (those after-dark rates are no joke).

Here are the key lines:

·         Χ95 — to Syntagma Square (city center)

·         Χ96 — to Piraeus Port (if you’re heading straight for a ferry)

·         Χ97 — toward southern Athens (Elliniko area)

Buses leave from right outside the arrivals hall. Tickets are available at vending machines or you can tap in with a contactless card onboard. They run 24/7, which makes them a surprisingly good option.

2.  The Metro: smooth sailing with zero traffic

The blue line takes you straight from the airport into the heart of the city and even all the way to the port of Piraeus. It’s €10 a ticket, but worth every cent—air conditioning, predictable travel time, and no surprises on the road.To find the station: step out of arrivals and turn left. Just follow the signs. It’s all fairly foolproof.Now, a quick word of caution: metro trains are a magnet for pickpockets, especially since tourists tend to carry cash. Keep your bags—passport, wallet, phone—right in front of you. No need for panic, just a touch of street smarts.

3. Taxi: comfort, with a few footnotes

During the day, a flat-rate ride to the city center runs about €50. That covers everything—luggage, traffic jams, and any philosophical detours your driver might take.I recommend using the 

Free Now app. 

You can pay by card, and you won’t have to negotiate curbside. It works well, especially if your brain’s still somewhere over the Aegean.

4. Private transfer: for the planners among us

Someone meets you at arrivals with a sign, helps with your bags, and before you know it, you’re gliding toward the city. Ideal if you’re exhausted, traveling with kids, or just not in the mood to solve transport puzzles.
Here are my recommendations:

•  Up to 3 people — €60      

• Minivan for 6-7 people — about €100.     

5. Rental car or—brace yourself—two wheels

If you’re planning to explore Attica or go beyond Athens, renting a car can be a great move. Total freedom, like the breeze up at Cape Sounion.

That said, parking in Athens is… well, let’s say ambitious. Check if your hotel offers a parking spot—it can make a world of difference.

There’s also car sharing now. Pick one up at the airport and drop it off in town later. Handy, flexible, and quite modern for a city built on ruins.

As for cycling in—yes, the old road from the airport is scenic. But be warned: in summer, the sun plays hardball. Bring water, wear a helmet, and maybe don’t try to be a hero if your thighs haven’t seen action since last summer.

In short: pick your route, match your mood, and go with what feels right.

Next stop: Athens.

  Ready to Explore More of Athens?  

  Dive deeper into the city’s history & hidden gems with my comprehensive travel guides.  

This transport guide is just a glimpse of the in-depth, authentic experience I offer. My full travel guides provide detailed itineraries, historical insights, and local secrets to ensure your Athens trip is unforgettable.