Overview: Public Transportation Athens, the capital city of Greece, has rich history of public transportation that dates back to the era of horse and carriages. Today, with a population nearing 4 million, the city’s modern public transport system plays a pivotal role in the daily lives of its residents and visitors. While the city offers a plethora of transportation options, understanding them can be a bit overwhelming for newcomers. This guide aims to simplify that process and provide a detailed overview of the transportation system in Athens.
Major Transport Operators in Athens:
Commuter Rail:
The Athens urban area is serviced by five primary modes of mass transit: metro/electric rail, city buses, electric trolley-buses, tram, and the suburban railway. Except for the suburban railway, which is operated by TrainOSE, all other modes are managed by the Athens Mass Transit System (OASA S.A.).
Buses:
Athens has an extensive bus and trolley-bus network that covers areas not reached by the metro. The OASA Telematics website and app provide timetables for all city bus and trolley-bus routes.
Table: Transportation Systems:
| Transportation | Operator | Website URL |
|---|---|---|
| Metro/Electric Rail | Athens Mass Transit System (OASA S.A.) | OASA |
| City Buses | Athens Mass Transit System (OASA S.A.) | OASA |
| Electric Trolley-Buses | Athens Mass Transit System (OASA S.A.) | OASA |
| Tram | Athens Mass Transit System (OASA S.A.) | OASA |
| Suburban Railway | TrainOSE | TrainOSE |
Guide on Ticket Purchasing:
Tickets in Athens are universal, meaning they can be used across different modes of transportation. They are available as single tickets, ticket packs, and reloadable plastic passes. These can be purchased from vending machines at metro and some tramway stations, select bus stops, and certain stores and kiosks. It’s essential to validate your ticket when traveling. On buses and trams, validation is done onboard upon boarding. At metro stations, tickets are validated at the entrance and exit gates. Failure to validate can result in a fine.
Major Passenger Airports in Athens:
The primary airport serving Athens is the Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos”, located about 20 kilometers east of central Athens. From the airport, travelers can opt for express buses or the metro to reach the city center. Four express buses operate 24/7, connecting the airport to various parts of the city. Alternatively, the metro line 3 connects the airport to the city, with trains running every 30 minutes.
Renting a Car in Athens:
While renting a car is a great way to explore Greece, it’s advisable to avoid driving in Athens due to traffic and parking challenges.
Cycling Facilities in Athens:
Athens offers a unique blend of ancient history and modern urban landscapes, making it an exciting city to explore on two wheels. Here are some insights into the cycling scene in Athens:
- Diverse Landscape for Cyclists: Athens is surrounded by mountains on three sides and the coastline of the Saronic Gulf on the other, making it a diverse landscape for cyclists. The city’s warm and dry climate makes cycling comfortable throughout the year.
- Urban Rides: For those looking to explore the city, the wide boulevard of Dionysiou Areopagitou provides a scenic bike track beneath the Acropolis. A recommended route for beginners is the pedestrianized circle around the Acropolis, which passes through Plaka, Anafiotika, Monastiraki, Thissio, and Koukaki. This route offers a journey through Athens’ rich history, from ancient ruins to modern city life.
- Coastal Rides: For a refreshing ride along the coast, cyclists can take the 7-kilometer bike track that starts at Thissio Metro station. This flat and traffic-free route is suitable for all skill levels and takes riders through serene Athenian suburbs to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre in Faliro. From there, one can continue along the Athens Riviera, passing through various coastal suburbs like Palio Faliro and Alimos, all the way to Glyfada.
- Mountain Biking: For those seeking a challenge, Athens offers mountain biking opportunities on Mount Ymittos, Mount Pendeli, and Mount Parnitha. These routes provide breathtaking views and varying levels of difficulty.
- Bike Tours and Rentals: Several companies in Athens offer guided bike tours and rentals. Some notable ones include:
- Let’s Meet in Athens: Offers tours on Dutch bicycles.
- Sole Bike: Specializes in electric bike tours.
- We Bike Athens: Provides electric bike tours with various themes, including food tours and sunset strolls.
- Coco-Mat Wooden Bikes: Offers sustainable bike tours on wooden bikes.
- GR Cycling: Provides road, mountain, and city bike rentals and organizes tours to various locations.
- Travelncycle: Offers mountain bike tours to locations like Marathon and Mount Parnitha.
- Athens by Bike: Combines sightseeing with cycling, offering tours that cover major landmarks.
- Roll in Athens: Customizable city tours and a City To Sea Bike Tour.
- Funky Ride: Offers a range of city, hybrid, and mountain bikes for rental.
- Cycling Infrastructure: While Athens has been slower in developing cycling infrastructure compared to other European cities, there is a growing commitment to promote cycling. The Municipality of Athens has initiated the Great Athens Walk project, aiming to create a less motorized city with more bike lanes. The popular Thissio-Faliro bike path is one of the many cycle paths being expanded across the city.
- AthensBikes: A new public bike-sharing service, similar to those in major cities worldwide. The service is still in its pilot phase, but it aims to promote cycling as a sustainable mode of transport in Athens.
In conclusion, whether you’re an urban explorer or a mountain biking enthusiast, Athens offers a diverse range of cycling experiences that cater to all levels of expertise. So, saddle up and discover the ancient city on two wheels!
Walking Facilities in Athens:
Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city steeped in history and culture. Walking through its streets is like taking a journey back in time, where ancient ruins meet modern architecture. For those who love to explore on foot, Athens offers a plethora of walking routes that not only provide a glimpse into its rich past but also allow one to experience the vibrant present-day life of the city.
Notable Stops Along the Way:
- Lykavittos Hill: Offers a panoramic view of Athens. Legend says that the hill was formed when the goddess Athena dropped a boulder she was carrying for the Acropolis.
- Acropolis: A must-visit historical site. On Sundays in the winter, entrance to archaeological sites like the Acropolis is free.
- Plaka: The old city of Athens, filled with narrow streets, ancient ruins, and modern cafes.
- Philopappou Hill: Known as the Hill of the Muses, it offers serene walking paths amidst olive and pine trees.
Tips for Walkers:
- Start early, around 9:00 or 10:00 AM, to avoid the afternoon heat and crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven paths.
- Carry water and snacks, especially if you plan to explore the Acropolis or other archaeological sites.
- Take breaks. There are numerous cafes and resting spots along the way where you can relax and soak in the surroundings.
Walking in Athens is not just about reaching a destination; it’s about experiencing the journey. Every corner turned reveals a new story, every step taken echoes with history. So, the next time you’re in Athens, put on your walking shoes and set out to explore this magnificent city on foot.
