Athens to Piraeus Port: Best Ways to Travel Smoothly

If you're planning a ferry trip from Athens to one of Greece’s beautiful islands, your journey will likely begin at Piraeus Port—the country’s busiest harbor. But first, you'll need to figure out how to get from Athens Center to Piraeus Port.

This short but essential transfer can shape the start of your island adventure. Whether you're tight on time or want to enjoy a stress-free ride, this guide will help you travel smoothly and choose the best option for your needs.

1. Metro: The Fast and Budget-Friendly Choice

Time: ~20–30 minutes
Cost: €1.20 (standard ticket)

The Athens Metro is one of the most efficient ways to get from Athens Center to Piraeus Port. If you’re near Syntagma, Monastiraki, or Omonia Square, you're already close to a metro station on Line 1 (Green Line), which heads directly to Piraeus.

Here’s how to do it:

• Hop on at Monastiraki Station

• Stay on Line 1 all the way to Piraeus (last stop)

Once you arrive, it’s a short walk to the port gates. Keep in mind that Piraeus Port is large, so check your ferry company and gate number ahead of time. Some gates might require 5–10 minutes of walking from the metro exit.

Tip: If you're traveling early in the morning, check the metro schedule in advance. First trains typically run from 5:30 AM.

2. Taxi: Comfort and Door-to-Door Convenience

Time: ~20–30 minutes
Cost: €25–35 (day), €35–45 (night)

Need a more relaxed start to your trip? Taking a taxi from Athens Center to Piraeus Port gives you the comfort of a private, door-to-door ride. It’s especially useful if:

• You're carrying heavy luggage

• You're traveling with kids or in a group

• You’re in a hurry

You can grab a taxi from the street, use a taxi app like Beat, or ask your hotel to arrange one for you. If you’re heading to the port early in the morning, pre-book your ride the night before to avoid delays.

Important: Always make sure the taxi meter is running or agree on a fixed rate in advance. During peak hours, traffic can slow things down, so plan accordingly.

3. Private Transfer: Hassle-Free and Reliable

Time: ~25–35 minutes
Cost: €40–€60 (depending on group size and vehicle)

For those who want a smooth, stress-free ride, booking a private transfer to Athens Port is a solid option. You get:

• A professional driver

• A comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle

• Guaranteed pickup time

Private transfers are ideal if you’re arriving in Athens by plane and need a quick connection to Piraeus. Most services monitor flight arrivals, so they’ll adjust pickup if your flight is delayed.

You can book online in advance, and many companies offer 24/7 service. This is a great choice if you’re short on time or want peace of mind—especially during the busy summer season.

4. Bus: A Budget Option with a Longer Ride

Time: ~60–90 minutes
Cost: €1.20 (local bus)

If you're traveling light and don’t mind a longer trip, buses run between central Athens and Piraeus, offering a very affordable way to travel. However, they can be slow during rush hours and aren’t ideal if you’re in a hurry.

You can take:

• Bus 049 from Omonia Square to Piraeus

• Bus 040 from Syntagma Square to Piraeus

These buses run frequently and are a good choice if you want to see a bit of the city along the way. Make sure to validate your ticket once on board.

5. Tram (Not Ideal for the Port, but Scenic)

Time: 70–90 minutes
Cost: €1.20

While Athens’ tram network connects the city center with the southern coastal suburbs, it doesn’t go directly to the ferry terminals at Piraeus. You can take the tram toward Faliro or Neo Faliro, then switch to the metro for the last leg to Piraeus.

This option is scenic but slow. It’s better for travelers with extra time who want to enjoy views of the Athenian coastline rather than those rushing to catch a ferry.

Best Choice Based on Your Situation

Final Thoughts

Getting from Athens Center to Piraeus Port doesn’t have to be a hassle. Whether you jump on the metro, hop in a taxi, or book a private transfer, there’s a solution that fits your schedule and style. Just plan ahead—especially during peak travel months when ferries and roads can get crowded.

And remember: no matter how you get there, your real journey begins once you board that ferry. The Greek islands are waiting.

Safe travels and smooth sailing!