Athens Transport

Athens’ recently built international airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) is located 27 kilometers northeast of the city, visit www.athensairport-2001.gr for further details.

The public transport system consists of buses, trolley buses, city center minibuses and the metro/electric trains. In general the service is cheap and extensive but often overcrowded. You can buy tickets at bus terminals and some street kiosks (periptera), make sure you validate your ticket in the orange machines which can be found at the metro stations and aboard the buses. The most frequently visited parts of the city and major attractions are all within walking distance of each other located around Syntagma (Constitution) Square. Consequently walking is the best way to enjoy most of the city’s sights.

Day Trips

If you want to escape the city, albeit for a day, visit Athens’ closest island Aigina (Aegina). It has a good beach and is easily accessible via the frequent ferries from Piraeus, the journey taking approximately 40 minutes. Alternatively the mountains surrounding Athens such as Mount Parnitha, about an hours drive north of the city, offer excellent opportunities for walking and, particularly in springtime for enjoying the flowers, wildlife and some fresh air!

For a half-day excursion with some spectacular views take the bus along the coastal road from Athens and head to the Temple of Poseidon situated on the tip of Cape Sounion. If you time it accordingly and catch the sunset, a breathtaking view over the Aegean awaits you.