Traveling with the Athens Suburban Railway (Proastiakos)

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to get from Athens Airport to Athens city center or planning to travel beyond the capital, the Proastiakos Suburban Railway is an excellent option. Unlike the Athens Metro Line 3, which primarily serves the city center, the suburban railway connects Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos to Larissis Station, the city’s central train hub, and other destinations in Greece.

Route & Key Stops

The Proastiakos railway line runs from Athens Airport to Larissis Station, the city’s main train station. From there, you can easily transfer to:

• The Athens Metro (Line 2 – Red Line) to reach areas like Omonia, Syntagma, and Acropolis

• National rail services for onward travel to cities like Thessaloniki, Patras, and Chalkida

• Piraeus Port, if you’re catching a ferry to the Greek islands.

How to Board the Proastiakos Train at Athens Airport – Step-by-Step Guide

The Athens Airport railway station is conveniently located just outside the main terminal, connected via a pedestrian bridge.

1. Exit the Arrivals Hall. Once you land and collect your baggage, head toward the Arrivals Level of Athens International Airport. The railway station is not inside the terminal, so you’ll need to take a short walk to reach it.

2. Follow the Train Signs. Inside the terminal, look for signs marked TRAIN – Proastiakos or Metro/Suburban Railway. These will guide you towards the exit leading to the Athens Airport Railway Station.

3. Cross the Pedestrian Bridge. After exiting the terminal, take the escalators, elevator, or stairs up to the pedestrian bridge. This bridge connects directly to the Athens Airport Railway Station, making it easy to access without leaving the airport complex.

4. Buy Your Ticket. Before heading to the platform, you’ll need to purchase a ticket. There are multiple options:

   • Ticket Booths. Staffed counters are located at the train station entrance, where you can ask for assistance.

   • Ticket Machines. Available 24/7, these self-service machines accept cash and cards for quick, contactless purchases.

   • Online Booking. Not necessary for this route, but sometimes available for longer journeys beyond Athens.

5. Proceed to the Platform. Once you have your ticket, follow the signs to the train departure area. The Proastiakos platform is on the same level as the ticket counters, so you won’t need to take additional stairs or escalators.

6. Check the Timetable & Board the Train. Proastiakos trains depart every 15-25 minutes, and the schedule is displayed on electronic boards at the platform. Look for the correct train heading to your destination — it will either say Piraeus (for ferry connections) or Athens Central Railway Station (Larissis Station). Make sure you’re on the right platform before boarding.

7. Validate Your Ticket. Before stepping onto the train, ensure that you validate your ticket at the validation machines near the entrance. This is important because unvalidated tickets can result in fines, even if you’ve paid for your ride.

Now you’re all set for a smooth journey from Athens Airport to the city center or beyond using the Proastiakos Suburban Railway!

👉 Pro Athens Travel Tips: If you’re traveling with luggage, use the elevators instead of the escalators for easier access. If you’re continuing to Thessaloniki, Chalkida, or Patras, check for direct train connections at Larissis Station to avoid long waits.