Taking the Athens Airport Express Bus

If you’re looking for a cheap and reliable way to get from Athens Airport to the city center, the Athens Airport Express Bus is one of the best options. These 24/7 express buses are not only affordable but also easy to use, even for first-time visitors. Whether you’re heading to Syntagma Square, Piraeus Port, Kifissos Bus Terminal, or Elliniko Metro Station, there’s a direct bus route for you.

👉 Finding the Athens Airport Bus Stop: Exit the Arrivals Level, walk towards Exits 4 & 5, and look for the ticket kiosk and bus signs.

Athens Airport Express Bus Routes

There are four express bus routes serving different parts of Athens:

1. X95 - Athens Airport to Syntagma Square. The best option for travelers staying in the city center (Plaka, Monastiraki, Kolonaki).

2. X93 – Athens Airport to Kifissos Bus Terminal. Ideal for those connecting to long-distance KTEL buses to other Greek cities.

3. X96 – Athens Airport to Piraeus Port. The go-to bus for travelers taking a ferry to the Greek islands.

4. X97 – Athens Airport to Elliniko Metro Station. A good option for those heading to southern Athens or switching to Metro Line 2.

👉 Best Bus for Tourists: Take the X95 to Syntagma Square — it drops you right in the heart of Athens, near hotels, Plaka, Monastiraki, and major landmarks like the Acropolis.

Bus Schedule & Frequency

During the daytime, Athens Airport Express Buses operate frequently, with departures every 15 to 20 minutes. This makes it a reliable option for travelers arriving during regular hours, ensuring minimal waiting time before heading into the city.

At night, the buses continue to run, albeit with slightly reduced frequency. From midnight to early morning, departures occur every 20 to 25 minutes. This 24/7 service is particularly useful for those arriving on late-night flights when other transportation options, such as the Athens Metro, are no longer available.

👉 Best Time to Take the Bus to Athens from the Airport: Early morning or late night to avoid Athens traffic, which can add 30+ minutes to your journey.

The duration of your trip from Athens International Airport to your destination depends on the bus route you take and the time of day. While these express buses operate 24/7, Athens traffic can significantly impact travel time, especially during rush hours (8:00-10:30 am & 5:00-7:30 pm).

• X95: The journey from the airport to Syntagma Square in central Athens typically takes 60 minutes but can be longer during heavy traffic.

• X93: The route from the airport to Kifissos Bus Terminal takes about 65 minutes.

• X96: If you’re traveling from the airport to Piraeus Port to catch a ferry to the Greek islands, expect a 90-minute ride. This is the longest route due to multiple stops along the coastal road.

• X97: This route, which connects the airport to the Metro Line 2 at Elliniko Metro Station, is the shortest, with a typical travel time of 45 minutes.

👉 Expect Traffic Delays! During peak hours (8:00-10:30 am & 5:00-7:30 pm), your journey could take longer. If you’re in a rush, consider taking the metro instead.

These times are estimates and can fluctuate depending on road conditions, accidents, or construction work. If you have a tight schedule, consider taking the metro or a taxi for a more predictable arrival time.

Athens Airport Bus Tickets & Prices

A single fare for the Athens Airport Express Bus costs €6, making it the most budget-friendly way to travel from Athens Airport to the city center. If you’re traveling with kids, teenagers, or seniors over 65 years old, you’re eligible for a reduced fare of €3, making this an even more affordable option.

To purchase your ticket, head to the ticket booths located outside the Arrivals Level, between Exits 4 and 5. It’s best to buy your ticket before boarding, as inspectors frequently check for validated tickets. Remember to validate your ticket at the machines once you step onto the bus to avoid fines.

👉 Important! You must validate your ticket once you board the bus. Inspectors frequently check, and fines are high for unvalidated tickets!

Why Take the Express Bus from Athens Airport?

✅ Ideal for budget travelers, backpackers, and those arriving late at night.
✅ Budget-friendly. At €6 per ticket, the Athens Airport Express Bus is the cheapest way to reach the city, half the price of the metro and a fraction of a taxi fare.
✅ Runs 24/7. Unlike the metro, which stops running at 11:30 pm, these buses operate throughout the night. If you arrive after midnight, this is your best option.
✅ No Luggage Fees. Unlike taxis or some Uber options, you won’t be charged extra for big suitcases — a huge plus for budget travelers.

👉 Where to Store Luggage: There’s a luggage compartment underneath the bus, but if you’re carrying just a small suitcase, you can keep it with you.

When the Athens Express Bus Might NOT Be the Best Option

❌ You have lots of luggage. Bus luggage compartments can get crowded, especially during peak hours. A taxi or private transfer might be more comfortable.
❌ You land very early. While the bus runs 24/7, if you land early in the morning and need to reach a specific hotel outside the center, a taxi or pre-booked transfer will save you from navigating unfamiliar streets at night.
❌ You’re staying far from the bus route. If your accommodation is in Glyfada, Kifisia, or Piraeus, you may need an additional taxi or metro ride. A direct transfer may be more practical.
❌ You prefer a stress-free arrival. A pre-arranged taxi or Uber can provide a smoother experience. Sometimes, spending a bit more is worth the convenience.

If you’re on a budget and don’t mind a longer journey, the Athens Airport Express Bus is the best deal. It’s cheap, available 24/7, and connects directly to key locations in Athens. However, if you want speed and convenience, the metro or a taxi/Uber might be better.