How to get from Piraeus Port to Athens City Center

If you're arriving in Athens by ferry or cruise, chances are you'll dock at Piraeus Port, the busiest and largest of the ports in Athens Greece. Whether you're heading straight to the Acropolis, Syntagma Square, or your hotel, knowing the best way to get from Piraeus to Athens city center can save you time and money.

The good news? You have multiple options, from the fast and budget-friendly metro to the convenience of a taxi or private transfer. However, not all routes are created equal. Let’s break down the best transport options so you can choose what works best for your schedule, budget, and travel style.

By Metro, the Fastest and Cheapest Option

Taking the Athens metro from Piraeus to city center is the quickest and cheapest way to reach downtown Athens:

• Athens Metro Line 1 (Green Line) connects Piraeus to Monastiraki and Omonia Station in just 20 minutes.

• Athens Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) takes you directly to Syntagma Square and Athens Airport in 25 minutes.

👉 If you're heading to the Acropolis, take Line 1 to Monastiraki, then it's a 10-minute walk. No need to change trains!

A one-way metro ticket from Piraeus to Athens city center costs €1.20, making it the cheapest transportation option. The ticket is valid for 90 minutes, allowing passengers to transfer between buses, trams, and other metro lines without purchasing an additional fare. This makes it an excellent choice for those who need to connect to other parts of the city.

Trains run every 4–10 minutes from 5:30 AM to midnight, with extended hours on weekends. The frequent service ensures minimal waiting time, making it a reliable and efficient way to reach Athens city center from Piraeus Port. Check the real-time metro schedule 👉 Athens Metro Timetable

The metro is ideal for solo travelers and budget-conscious visitors, as it is not only affordable but also fast and convenient. However, for those traveling with heavy luggage, young children, or in a group, it may not be the most comfortable option, as metro stations and trains can get crowded, especially during peak hours.

👉 If you're docking at Terminal B or C, be prepared for a 20-40 minute walk to the metro station. Alternatively, check if a free shuttle bus is available. These aren’t always running, so ask at the port information desk.

By Bus, a Cheap Alternative

If you prefer staying above ground, Athens has several bus options to reach the city center from Piraeus Port:

Bus 040

The Bus 040 is a cheap and reliable way to travel from Piraeus Port to Athens city center, operating 24/7 and making it a great option for travelers arriving late at night or early in the morning when other transport options might be limited. The journey takes approximately 50 minutes, making it a slower but affordable alternative to the metro or express buses.

This bus follows a direct route to Syntagma Square, the heart of Athens, making it convenient for visitors staying in the city center or planning to explore landmarks like the Acropolis, Plaka, and Monastiraki. However, due to multiple stops along the way, the journey time can vary depending on traffic conditions, especially during rush hours.

A ticket for Bus 040 costs just €1.20, making it one of the cheapest ways to get into Athens. The ticket is valid for 90 minutes and can also be used on other buses, the metro, and trams within that time frame.

The bus departs from a designated stop near the port exit, which is clearly marked and easy to find. While the low cost makes it attractive to budget travelers, keep in mind that it can get crowded, especially during peak travel times, and it lacks luggage storage space, which may not be ideal for those carrying large bags.

Bus X80 (Express Bus)

Bus X80 (Express Bus) is the best bus from Piraeus to Athens if you're visiting May–October. The X80 express bus is one of the fastest ways to get from Piraeus Port to Athens city center, taking just 30 minutes to reach Syntagma Square. Designed for visitors who want a quick and direct route, this bus is a great alternative to the metro, especially for those who prefer to avoid crowded stations or long walks from the cruise terminals.

This express route makes only a few key stops, including the Acropolis, Syntagma Square, and the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. These stops are perfect for travelers heading straight to Athens' most famous landmarks, offering a convenient and efficient way to start exploring the city right after arrival.

👉 The X80 express bus is the best choice if you’re on a time crunch. However, it doesn’t run in winter, so if you're visiting from November to April, take Bus 040 instead.

A ticket for the X80 costs €4.10 and is valid for 24 hours, allowing unlimited travel on buses, the metro, and trams within that time. This makes it a great deal for those planning to move around Athens using public transport.

The bus departs from clearly marked stops at Terminal A and Terminal B in Piraeus Port, making it easy to locate upon arrival. However, as the X80 only operates from May to October, those visiting in the off-season will need to consider other transport options such as the 040 bus, metro, or taxis.

👉 Buy your bus ticket at the kiosk near the bus stop because drivers don’t sell tickets on board.

By Tram, a Scenic and Budget-Friendly Option

For travelers who enjoy a relaxed ride with city views, taking the tram from Piraeus to Athens is a great alternative. While not as fast as the metro, the tram allows you to sit back and enjoy the scenery as you make your way toward the city center.

To catch the tram, you’ll need to walk to the SEF (Peace and Friendship Stadium) tram station, located near the port. From there, the tram ride takes only 27 minutes to reach Athens, making it a comfortable and affordable way to travel. A one-way ticket costs under €2, making it one of the cheapest ways to get to Athens from Piraeus Port.

The tram operates daily from 5:30 AM to 1:00 AM on weekdays, with extended hours on weekends, running until 2:30 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. This makes it a great option for late-night arrivals who want a low-cost way to reach central Athens. Check the real-time tram schedule 👉 Athens Tram Timetable

The tram is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who aren’t in a rush and prefer a smooth, scenic journey over the more crowded metro or bus options. However, keep in mind that reaching the SEF tram stop requires a short walk, which may not be convenient for travelers with heavy luggage.

👉 If you’re staying near Neos Kosmos, Syngrou-Fix, or Syntagma, the tram can be a direct and easy way to reach your accommodation without the hassle of switching transport.

By Taxi, the Most Convenient Choice

Taking a taxi from Piraeus Port to Athens is one of the most convenient options, especially for travelers with luggage or limited time. The cost is €25 during the day, but fares increase to €35 between 12:00 AM and 5:00 AM due to nighttime surcharges. While taxis are metered, some drivers may attempt to overcharge tourists, so it's best to confirm the estimated fare before starting your trip. Check live taxi fare estimates👉 Athens Taxi Fare Calculator

👉 Some taxi drivers overcharge tourists. Use the Taxiplon or Beat App to book a metered taxi and avoid scams.

The travel time varies between 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. During rush hours, the journey can take longer, especially when heading towards Syntagma Square or the Acropolis. However, outside peak times, taxis provide a quick and direct route into the city.

Taxis are available at the official taxi rank near the port exit, but queues can be long when multiple cruise ships dock at the same time. To avoid waiting, consider pre-booking a private transfer with a reputable service. This guarantees a fixed price and ensures a driver will be waiting for you at the terminal.

👉 If you’re traveling with luggage or a group, ask for a larger taxi (7-seater) in advance.

By Private Transfer – Hassle-Free Door-to-Door Service

For travelers who prioritize comfort and convenience, booking a private transfer from Piraeus to Athens is the most hassle-free option. This service is particularly well-suited for families, groups, and those traveling with luggage, as it provides door-to-door transportation without the stress of navigating public transport or haggling with taxi drivers.

👉 If you're traveling with kids, request a car seat in advance. Most taxis won't have them.

The cost of a private transfer varies depending on the vehicle size and service provider. A standard car typically costs €30–€40, while a minivan for larger groups starts at €75 or more. Although slightly more expensive than taxis, private transfers offer the advantage of fixed pricing, meaning no risk of being overcharged or dealing with unexpected surcharges.

One of the biggest benefits of a private transfer is the meet-and-greet service. Your driver will wait for you inside the terminal, holding a sign with your name, making it a seamless experience, especially after a long ferry ride or cruise stop. Unlike taxis, which may require waiting in line, a pre-booked transfer guarantees immediate departure to your destination.

👉 Private transfers are great for cruise passengers with limited time. No waiting for taxis or buses, just hop in and go!

Some of the most reputable private transfer services include Welcome Pickups, known for English-speaking drivers and high ratings, GetYourGuide, which are ideal for families and group travel, and Taxi2Airport, a great choice for those connecting to Athens Airport.

What’s the Best Way to Get from Piraeus Port to Athens?

It depends on your budget, schedule, and comfort level:

✅ Fastest & Cheapest: Metro Line 1 or Line 3 (€1.20, ~20-25 min).
✅ Best for Short Stopovers: X80 Express Bus (May-Oct, ~30 min).
✅ Most Convenient: Taxi or Private Transfer (€25-€40, ~15-30 min).
✅ Budget-Friendly at Night: Bus 040 (€1.20, 50 min, runs 24/7).

👉 If you're visiting Athens for just one day, skip the hassle and take the metro or X80 express bus for the best mix of speed and affordability.