# How Much Does the Athens Metro Cost?

> * 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 the Athens Metro Cost?](https://grandpl.com/post-images/6439002589245408968_o.jpg)

**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
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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:

1. **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.
2. **Ticket Vending Machines:** Located at all stations, these machines accept cash and major credit cards.
3. **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**.

Related: https://grandpl.com/en/greece/article/how-much-do-public-transport-tickets-cost-in-athens.md
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Related: https://grandpl.com/en/greece/article/how-to-use-public-transport-in-athens-in-2026-tickets-airport-travel--no-stress-tips.md
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Related: https://grandpl.com/en/greece/article/athens-15-things-you-must-know-about-public-transport-before-you-land.md
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