Summary
Unwilling to pop 40-50 Euro for a taxi into Athens? Consider taking the Athens Airport Bus. This economical option offers convenient transportation directly to the heart of the city.
Most of these buses typically run around the clock, although it’s worth noting that service on some lines may be infrequent between midnight and dawn. Buses pick up passengers directly in front of the arrivals terminal by Door 4 and 5.
Moreover, the Metro station at the airport, even when operational, is less convenient and requires more effort in handling your luggage than the airport buses, and it’s notably more expensive.
Your ticket includes a transfer to any other public transportation in Athens if used within 90 minutes, providing added value and flexibility.
X95 Bus
The X95 bus connects the airport to Syntagma Square in central Athens. Many hotels are located near Syntagma Square, making it easy to catch a taxi or connect with courtesy shuttles. The trip into Athens lasts just over an hour, providing a straightforward journey into the city.
X96 Bus to Piraeus
The X96 route runs to Piraeus, serving as a convenient link to numerous ferries heading to the Greek islands. The journey takes approximately an hour and a half, with departures at least every half-hour. While most tourists might opt for the X95 or X96, several additional routes cater to diverse travel needs.
X93 Bus from Kifisos Station
Beware of the similar names; X92 and X93 can sound alike and may lead to confusion. The X93 operates from Kifisos Station in Athens, connecting intercity buses to the Athens Airport with services usually on a 40-minute schedule.
X97 Bus Information
The X97 bus runs from Elliniko Metro Station to the airport. Departures occur every 40-60 minutes from approximately 6 am to 10 pm, extending to 90 minutes between buses during off-peak hours.
For the most current changes, refer to the official Airport Bus Lines page, which also features a diagram of bus locations at the airport.
Secrets of the Airport Bus
- Keep an eye out for new departure screens displaying bus schedules in the arrivals area at the airport, showing the expected departure times.
- Tickets for the Athens Airport bus can be purchased from a small kiosk near Door 3. This kiosk may not be staffed until shortly before the bus arrives. If necessary, the bus driver can take your payment, but it’s preferable to secure your ticket beforehand.
- The luggage compartments on the buses tend to fill up quickly, which may lead to a less comfortable ride if you have to straddle your luggage for the 70-minute journey into Athens or the 90-minute trip to Piraeus.
- If you require a stop near your hotel, inform the bus driver about your destination and the name of your hotel. This can help ensure that the bus doesn’t zoom past your stop.
If buses are not your preference, consider looking into pre-arranged airport transfers. These are akin to private taxis for small groups. While sometimes more costly for two or more passengers compared to catching a taxi at the airport, they offer peace of mind and convenience, often operating during strikes when regular taxis may be unavailable.
