Athens, Greece
 · 2 min read
 · Bill Crates
Table of contents

Navigating Athens: Metro, Buses, and Trams Operating Hours and Frequency

Introduction

Athens is a vibrant city with a rich history and numerous attractions that draw visitors from around the globe. Public transport is an essential mode of travel in the city, featuring a well-connected network of metro, buses, and trams. Understanding the operating hours and frequency of these services can greatly enhance your experience, making it easier to reach popular sites like the Acropolis, Plaka, and the National Archaeological Museum.

Details

  • Metro

    • Operating Hours:
      • Weekdays: 5:30 AM to midnight
      • Fridays and Saturdays: 5:30 AM to 2:00 AM the following day
      • Sundays: 7:00 AM to midnight
    • Frequency:
      • Peak Hours: Every 3-5 minutes
      • Off-Peak Hours: Every 5-10 minutes
      • Sundays and Holidays: Every 10-12 minutes
    • Key Lines:
      • Line 1 (Green Line): Connects Piraeus to Kifisia, ideal for accessing major attractions in the city center.
      • Line 2 (Red Line): Runs from Anthoupoli to Elliniko, which includes stops near significant sites like Omonia and Syntagma.
      • Line 3 (Blue Line): Connects the airport to the city center, serving key stops such as Monastiraki and the Acropolis.

  • Buses

    • Operating Hours:
      • Standard Service: 5:00 AM to midnight
      • Night Buses: Operate on certain routes from midnight to 5:00 AM
    • Frequency:
      • Regular Buses: Every 10-20 minutes during peak hours
      • Night Buses: Every 30-60 minutes depending on the route
    • Tips for Tourists:
      • Several bus lines (e.g., 040, 180) provide direct routes to and from major tourist destinations, including Syntagma Square and the Acropolis Museum.
      • Use the OASA Telematics app to check real-time bus arrivals.

  • Trams

    • Operating Hours:
      • Daily Service: 5:30 AM to 1:00 AM
      • Last Trams: Around 1:30 AM for specific routes
    • Frequency:
      • Peak Hours: Approximately every 10-12 minutes
      • Off-Peak Hours: Generally every 15-20 minutes
    • Routes:
      • Connects the city center to popular beaches along the Athenian coast, including stops at Glyfada and Voula.
      • Tram no. 1 is particularly useful for accessing areas like the seaside or central attractions.

Conclusion

Athens offers a comprehensive public transport system that conveniently connects different parts of the city, with specific operating hours and frequencies tailored to meet the needs of both locals and tourists. The metro operates with the greatest frequency and coverage, while buses and trams serve as excellent supplements to reach various attractions. To optimize your travel in Athens, familiarize yourself with these schedules and make use of real-time tracking apps for the best experience.