Athens Public Transport: The Pros and Cons of Getting Around the City
Athens, Greece, is a city steeped in history and culture, attracting tourists from all over the world. As with any major city, getting around Athens can be a tricky task. Fortunately, the city boasts a wide range of public transport options, each with their own pros and cons. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Athens’ public transport options and weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Metro – Heading underground
Athens’ metro system is one of the city’s most popular public transport options. It first opened in 1869, making it one of the oldest underground railway systems in the world. Today, the Athens Metro comprises three lines, spanning 65 km and serving 61 stations.
Pros:
The metro is one of the quickest and most convenient ways to get around Athens. The trains are air-conditioned, making them a welcome respite from the summer heat. Many of the metro stations also feature modern artwork, making for an interesting journey for art lovers.
Cons:
Like any metro system, the Athens Metro can become very crowded during peak hours. Rush hour on the metro can be overwhelming, with commuters competing for space on the train.
Buses – Seeing the sights
Athens’ bus network is comprehensive, with over 300 routes serving the city. If you’re looking to explore Athens and take in the sights, the bus is a great option.
Pros:
Buses offer a great opportunity to see more of Athens than just the tourist hotspots. The bus network covers a wide area of the city, and it’s easy to hop on and off to explore different areas. Plus, Athens’ buses are extremely affordable, and tickets can be purchased on board or from a kiosk.
Cons:
Bus travel can be slow and busy, especially during rush hour. Traffic in Athens can be notoriously bad, adding to the journey time. It’s also worth noting that some routes in Athens can be confusing, so it’s best to do your research or ask for advice before setting off.
Trams – Cruising along the coast
For those looking to travel along the coast of Athens, the tram is the perfect choice. The tram runs from Syntagma Square, through the city center and along the Athens Riviera, before finishing in the suburb of Voula.
Pros:
The tram offers a scenic route along the coast, with stunning views of the Aegean Sea. It’s also a great option for those traveling with luggage or who prefer to avoid the crowds on the metro.
Cons:
The Athens tram network is relatively small, with just one line and 26 stops. It’s also worth noting that the tram can be busy during peak hours, and ticket inspectors are often present.
Taxis – On the road
Taxis are a popular choice with tourists and locals alike, offering a convenient and comfortable way to travel around Athens.
Pros:
Taxis are a quick and easy way to get around the city, and there are thousands of licensed taxis available in Athens. Taxis are also affordable, with Taxi fares starting at around €4.00. Plus, many taxi drivers in Athens speak English, making communication easier for non-Greek speakers.
Cons:
Taxis in Athens are often subject to heavy traffic, especially during rush hour. It is important to check that your taxi driver has turned on the meter before setting off, as some drivers may try to charge higher rates. Taxis can also be expensive during the night, with fares increasing by up to 30%.
Conclusion
With so many different public transport options available in Athens, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. Whether you’re looking to explore the sights of the city or just need to get from A to B, each mode of transport offers its own unique advantages and disadvantages. By weighing up the pros and cons of each, you can find the perfect transport option to suit your needs and make the most of everything that Athens has to offer.
