Your Ultimate Guide to the Athens Metro

The Athenian Metro is an excellent choice if you want to explore the city, offering quick connections between key attractions, neighborhoods, and major transit points. With its modern infrastructure and cleanliness, it sets a high standard among European metro systems.

Main lines

The Athens Metro comprises three main lines, each connecting key locations across the city. Here’s a quick overview of what each line offers:

Line 1 (Green) runs from Piraeus port to Kifisia, passing through the bustling Monastiraki and Omonia squares.

Line 2 (Red) links Elliniko to Anthoupoli, with stops at popular spots like Syntagma Square and the Acropolis Museum.

Line 3 (Blue) stretches from the Airport to Doukisis Plakentias station passing through central hubs like Panepistimio and Evangelismos and every 30-45 minutes continues to Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport.

Operating Hours

Metro services run every 3 minutes during rush hours, while in the least busy periods, the intervals range from 5 to 10 minutes.

Line 1 (Green) First departure from Piraeus port and Kifisia is at 5:00, last departure is at 00:15.

Line 2 (Red) First departure from Elliniko and Anthoupoli  at 5:30, last departure at 00:03.

Line 3 (Blue) First departure from  Piraeus and Doukisis Plakentias at 5:30, last departure 23:54.

First departure from Piraeus to the Airport at 05:30, from the Airport to Piraeus at 06:10

Please note that trains to and from the Airport run every 30 to 45 minutes.

On weekends, the final departures are approximately an hour later

Please see more info at the official Metro website

Accessibility 

All metro stations in Athens are designed to be fully accessible to all users. Each station is equipped with lifts and level or ramped access points to facilitate easy movement. Ticket machines and counters are positioned at a low height to accommodate wheelchair users, while platforms feature tactile paving and warning tiles along the edges for the visually impaired. 

In locations where necessary, platform lifts are available for wheelchair users, ensuring seamless access to trains with minimal gaps between the platform and train doors. Lifts are equipped with Braille control buttons, and stops are announced both verbally and visually on screens in multiple languages. 

Additionally, pedestrian routes to and from metro stations, as well as all station areas and platforms, are designed to be wheelchair accessible, also providing convenience for parents with pushchairs.

Ticketing

Tickets are available at automatic machines and ticket offices in every station. Choose from single tickets, 24-hour passes, or multi-day passes. Be sure to validate your ticket at the specified machines before boarding.

For just €1.20, you can travel for 90 minutes across all public transport modes in Athens. There are also special tickets for airport journeys and three-day tourist passes. Detailed ticket and offer information can be found on the official Athens transport website.

Safety

Generally, the Athenian Metro is a safe mode of transport, but always keep an eye on pickpockets, particularly during busy hours. Secure your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings, especially in heavily trafficked stations like Omonoia, Monastiraki, and Syntagma. For more tips on traveler safety in Athens, you can find additional information here.

Popular stops for Athens visitors

Monastiraki (Lines 1 and 3): This station is close to the ancient Agora, Monastiraki Flea Market, and offers easy access to the Acropolis.

Syntagma (Lines 2 and 3): Located near the Greek Parliament, Syntagma Square, and the National Garden.

Acropoli (Line 2): Direct access to the Acropolis Museum and a short walk to the Acropolis itself.

Omonia (Lines 1 and 2): A central hub connecting various parts of the city and close to the National Archaeological Museum.

Getting to and from the Airport: The Blue Line (Line 3) connects Athens International Airport to the city center, including stops at Syntagma and Monastiraki. The journey takes about 40 minutes and runs every 30 minutes.

Museums inside metro stations

In Athens, several metro stations have incorporated museums or archaeological exhibits directly within their premises. Some of the most important ones are:

Acropolis Metro Station: Within this station, there’s an exhibition area where visitors can view archaeological discoveries unearthed during the construction of the metro line.

Syntagma Metro Station: Situated in the heart of Athens at Syntagma Square, this station also hosts archaeological exhibits showcasing artifacts discovered during the metro’s construction.

Monastiraki Metro Station: Visitors to this station can explore an exhibition space displaying ancient artifacts and ruins uncovered during the excavation process for the metro line.

These metro stations provide a unique opportunity to experience history firsthand while using modern public transportation.

Useful Tips

Peak Times: Expect the metro to be crowded during peak travel hours (8:00-10:00 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM). Plan your journeys to avoid these times if possible.

Station Maps: Look for maps and information boards at stations or use navigation apps like Google Maps to navigate your route.

Language: With station announcements and signage in both Greek and English, you will find it quite easy to get around.

Overall, the Athenian Metro ensures a seamless travel experience, allowing you to reach Athens’ major attractions quickly and comfortably, while exploring the city with ease. Its efficient connectivity and modern infrastructure make it an ideal choice for Athenian visitors!

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