4 hours ago • 2 min read

How Much Does the Athens Metro Cost?

Highlights by GR&PL AI

The Athens metro is part of an integrated public transport system that includes the metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses.
The basic single ticket costs €1.20 and is valid for 90 minutes with unlimited transfers. A 24-hour ticket costs €4.10, while a 5-day ticket costs €8.20 and allows unlimited travel across the entire public transport network.
A 72-hour tourist ticket costs €20 and also includes a transfer to and from the airport.
A metro ride from the airport to central Athens on Line 3 costs €9, while a return ticket costs €16 (valid for 30 days).
The travel time from the airport to Syntagma Square is about 35–40 minutes.
Children aged 6–18 and seniors over 65 can buy a discounted airport ticket for around €4.50.
Tickets can be purchased from station machines, kiosks, or by using the Tap & Pay system (card or phone).
The Athens metro typically runs from around 5: 30 AM until midnight, and on weekends selected lines operate until about 2: 00 AM.

How much does a metro ticket cost in Athens? A standard 90-minute ticket is priced at €1.20. The city uses an integrated transit system, meaning one ticket grants you access to the metro, city buses, trams, and trolleys.

Ticket Type	Price	Validity & Coverage
Standard Single	€1.20	90 minutes, unlimited transfers
24-Hour Pass	€4.10	Unlimited rides for 24 hours
5-Day Pass	€8.20	Unlimited rides for 5 days
Tourist Ticket (3-Day)	€20.00	72h pass + round-trip airport transfer
Airport One-Way	€9.00	Line 3 (Blue Line) to/from Airport

Note: The standard €1.20 ticket is not valid for travel to or from the Athens International Airport.

How to Get from Athens Airport via Metro

For a seamless arrival, the fastest way to reach central Athens (Syntagma Square) is the Blue Line (Line 3).

Travel Time: Approximately 35–40 minutes.
Fare: €9.00 (Standard €1.20 tickets do not cover the airport zone).
Reduced Fares: Children (6–18) and seniors (65+) are eligible for a €4.50 fare.

Where to Purchase Your Tickets

Acquiring an "Athina Ticket" is straightforward and high-tech in 2026:

Tap-to-Ride (Tap & Pay): The most convenient option for travelers. Simply tap your contactless credit card, smartphone, or smartwatch at the gate. The system automatically calculates the best fare for you.
Ticket Vending Machines: Located at all stations, these machines accept cash and major credit cards.
Kiosks: Physical tickets can be purchased at major transit hubs and street kiosks.

Essential Rules & Travel Tips

Validation: You must tap your ticket or device at both the entry and exit gates. Failure to do so may result in a fine.
Complimentary Travel: Children under the age of 6 ride for free.
Operating Hours: The metro runs from roughly 5:30 AM until midnight. On weekends, select lines offer extended service until 2:00 AM.
Fines: Inspections are frequent. The penalty for riding without a valid ticket is 60 times the fare (e.g., €72).

If you are planning a 3-day luxury stay and want the convenience of a pre-paid airport transfer, the €20 Tourist Ticket is your best bet. For longer city stays without airport needs, opt for the 5-Day Pass at €8.20.