How to get to Athens

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Updated: Today 19, April, 2024 | By George the traveler

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Athens, the capital city of Greece, is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. With its rich history, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture, it’s no surprise that so many people flock to this city every year. If you’re planning a trip to Athens and wondering how to get there, this article will provide you with all the information you need.

How to get to Athens

Get to Athens by air

The easiest and most convenient way to get to Athens is by air. The city’s main airport is Athens International Airport, also known as Eleftherios Venizelos Airport. It is located about 20 kilometers east of the city center and is well-connected to the rest of the city by public transportation.

There are many airlines that operate flights to Athens from major cities around the world. Some of the major airlines that operate flights to Athens include Aegean Airlines, Olympic Air, British Airways, Emirates, and Turkish Airlines. You can book your tickets online or through a travel agent.

Once you arrive at the airport, there are several options to get to the city center. The most popular option is the metro, which takes about 40 minutes and costs around 10 euros. There are also buses and taxis available, but they can be more expensive.

Get to Athens by train

If you’re traveling to Athens from within Greece or from nearby countries like Bulgaria or Turkey, you may want to consider taking the train. Athens is well-connected to the rest of Greece by rail, and there are several daily trains that operate to and from the city.

The main train station in Athens is Larissa Station, which is located in the eastern part of the city. From here, you can catch trains to destinations all over Greece, including Thessaloniki, Patras, and Ioannina.

If you’re traveling from nearby countries like Bulgaria or Turkey, you may need to change trains in Thessaloniki or another major Greek city. Be sure to check the timetables and schedules before you travel to ensure a smooth journey.

Get to Athens by Bus

Another option for getting to Athens is by bus. Athens has a large bus station, called KTEL, which is located near the city center. From here, you can catch buses to destinations all over Greece, including Thessaloniki, Patras, and Ioannina.

If you’re traveling from within Greece, taking the bus can be a more affordable option than flying or taking the train. The buses are comfortable and air-conditioned, and there are usually several departures each day to popular destinations.

If you’re traveling from outside of Greece, you may need to change buses in Thessaloniki or another major Greek city. Be sure to check the timetables and schedules before you travel to ensure a smooth journey.

Get to Athens by car

If you’re planning to explore Greece by car, you can also drive to Athens. The city is well-connected to the rest of Greece by a network of highways and roads, and there are several rental car companies that operate in the city.

However, driving in Athens can be challenging, especially for visitors who are not used to the city’s narrow streets and busy traffic. It’s important to be aware of the traffic laws and regulations, and to be cautious when driving.

If you’re planning to drive to Athens from another country, be sure to check the regulations and requirements for crossing borders and driving in Greece. You may need to obtain an international driver’s license or provide other documentation.

Get to Athens by Ferry

Finally, if you’re traveling to Athens from one of the nearby islands or from another country in the Mediterranean, you can also take a ferry. Athens has several ports, including Piraeus Port, which is the main port of Athens and one of the largest ports in Europe.

From Piraeus Port, you can catch ferries to destinations all over islands like Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Crete and more.