How to Use Public Transport Like a Pro in Athens
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When Google Maps fails: An Erasmus student vs. Athens’ public transport chaos. Welcome to the adventure
Athens is amazing... but figuring out public transport here can feel like trying to crack an ancient Greek code.
If you’re an Erasmus student fresh off the plane, you’re probably already battling Google Maps, wondering why your bus isn’t showing up, or debating if you should just walk 40 minutes instead.
But don’t worry!
By the time you finish this guide, you’ll navigate Athens like a local, save money, and never get stranded at a random stop again.
And if you find this useful, wait until you see how stress-free life can be with a fully equipped co-living apartment from Rooms Athens—but more on that later.
Let’s get you moving.
1. The Public Transport System in Athens (What You Need to Know)
Athens has buses, trolleybuses, metro, trams, and suburban rail, all connected under one ticketing system.
That means you can hop between different modes of transport on the same ticket. Here’s what’s worth knowing:
Metro (M1, M2, M3) – The fastest way to get around. Runs from 5:30 AM to midnight (and until 2:30 AM on Fridays and Saturdays).
Buses & Trolleybuses – Cheap, useful, but notorious for delays.
Tram – Slow but scenic. Great for reaching the coast.
Suburban Rail (Proastiakos) – Ideal for longer trips, like reaching the airport.
Pro Tip: Download the OASA Telematics App for real-time bus updates. Trust us, it’ll save you from standing at a stop for 20 minutes, questioning your life choices.
2. How to Get and Use Your Transport Ticket
Types of Tickets
You’ll need an Ath.ena Card—Athens’ rechargeable transport card.
Here’s what’s available:
Single Ticket (€1.20) – Valid for 90 minutes across all transport except the airport.
5-Day Ticket (€8.20) – Unlimited travel (except to the airport).
Monthly Student Pass (€15) – The best deal for Erasmus students. Unlimited rides.
Where to Buy Your Ticket
You can get your Ath.ena Card at any metro station or from kiosks around the city. Just bring your student ID for discounts.
How to Use It
Metro & Tram: Tap your card at the entrance gates.
Buses & Trolleybuses: Tap your card inside the vehicle.
Proastiakos: Validate before boarding.
Pro Tip: Forgot to tap? Athens has ticket inspectors, and they don’t care if you’re an Erasmus student. The fine? €72. Don’t risk it.
3. Metro Hacks: The Fastest Way to Travel
The Athens Metro is your best friend.
Here’s how to use it efficiently:
Know the Key Stations:
Syntagma – Main transfer hub, city center.
Monastiraki – Historic center, flea market.
Omonia – Cheap eats, not the safest at night.
Acropoli – Right next to the Parthenon.
Avoid Rush Hour: 8:00-10:00 AM & 5:00-7:00 PM. You don’t want to be squeezed between commuters.
Take the Last Metro on Time: The last train leaves at midnight (2:30 AM on weekends). If you miss it, you’re either paying for a taxi or walking home.
Pro Tip: Metro stations have free Wi-Fi. You’re welcome.
4. Buses and Trolleys: The Hit-or-Miss Option
Buses and trolleybuses are useful but unpredictable. Still, here’s how to make them work for you:
Use the OASA App – Shows real-time arrivals (most of the time).
Always Wave at the Driver – If you just stand there, they might keep driving.
Check the Number, Not Just the Destination – Multiple buses go in different directions.
Pro Tip: If a bus is packed, skip it and wait for the next one. Athens traffic means buses often arrive in clusters.
5. Trams: Slow but Worth It
Trams are not the fastest, but they are:
Great for reaching the beach (Glyfada, Voula)
A relaxing way to see the city
If you’re heading to the coast, hop on the tram from Syntagma and enjoy the ride. Just don’t expect it to be fast.
Pro Tip: Want to watch the sunset? Take the tram to Edem Beach. Perfect Instagram moment.
6. Getting to and From the Airport (Without Paying €40 for a Taxi)
If you need to get to or from Athens International Airport, skip the expensive taxis and use these budget-friendly options:
Metro Line 3 (€9) – Takes 40 minutes from Syntagma.
Bus X95 (€5.50) – Runs 24/7 from Syntagma to the airport.
Suburban Rail (€9) – Ideal if you’re staying outside central Athens.
Pro Tip: If you’re arriving late at night, X95 is the safest bet. Taxis can get pricey.
7. The Unwritten Rules of Public Transport in Athens
If you want to avoid looking like a total newbie, follow these:
Seats at the front of the bus are for elderly people. Don’t sit there unless you want a Greek grandma yelling at you.
Stand on the right side of escalators in the metro. The left side is for people in a rush.
No eating on the metro. Yes, people do it, but it’s frowned upon.
Keep an eye on your belongings. Pickpockets love distracted tourists.
Pro Tip: If someone starts playing an accordion on the metro, you’re about to witness a mini concert. Keep small coins for tips.
8. Bonus: How to Get Home After a Night Out
Athens nightlife is wild, but transport at 3 AM? Not so much. Here’s how to get home safely:
Weekend Metro Runs Until 2:30 AM – Take advantage of this.
Night Buses (500, X14, X93, etc.) – Check routes in advance.
Taxi Apps (i.e. Uber) – Reliable and cheaper than hailing a cab.
Pro Tip: If you’re out late, always share your live location with a friend.
Final Thoughts: Make Athens Feel Like Home
Mastering public transport means saving money, avoiding frustration, and exploring Athens stress-free.
Whether it’s getting to class on time or heading to the beach for a break, knowing how to move around the city is a game-changer.
And if you want to avoid unnecessary stress in every aspect of your Erasmus experience, that includes your housing too.
At Rooms Athens, we make sure you have a fully furnished, move-in-ready apartment with no hidden fees and a support team that’s got your back.
Liked this guide? Then you’ll love what we offer. Check out our listings and make your life in Athens even easier. 🚀
