Athens Bus Guide: Official Schedules & Live GPS Tracking Tips
Planning a trip to Athens, Greece and wondering how to get around without overspending? Whether you’re visiting the world-famous Acropolis, exploring historic neighborhoods like Plaka and Monastiraki, or heading to the stunning Athenian Riviera, the Athens bus network is the cheapest and most practical way to travel across the city.
However, finding accurate Athens bus schedules, understanding public transport routes, and tracking buses in real time can be confusing for first-time visitors. If you’ve ever stood at a bus stop under the Mediterranean sun asking yourself “Where is my bus?”, you’re not alone.
That’s why this guide exists. Below, you’ll find a complete, up-to-date breakdown of official Athens bus timetables, real-time bus tracking apps, and the best tools to help tourists use Athens public transport like a local - without stress, guesswork, or wasted time.
The "Big Three": Official Sources for Athens Bus Timetables
To avoid outdated info or "ghost" buses, you need to use the official sources managed by OASA (Athens Urban Transport Organisation). Bookmark these now:
1. The Command Center: OASA.gr
This is the official portal for all city transit, including buses, trolleys, metro, and trams. It's the best place for high-level planning.
- Best for: Route planning, official maps, and checking for strike alerts.
- Check it here: OASA Official Site
2. The Game Changer: OASA Telematics (Live Tracking)
In Athens, traffic happens. That’s why the "scheduled" time is often just a suggestion. The OASA Telematics site uses real-time GPS data to show you exactly where your bus is located.
- Best for: Seeing the real-time arrival (down to the minute) at your specific stop.
- Real-time Link: Athens Live Bus Tracking
3. The Must-Have App: OASA Telematics Mobile
Don't fumble with browser tabs while walking. The official app (iOS/Android) detects your location and shows every bus moving around you in real-time. It’s an absolute lifesaver for tourists.
Athens Bus Tickets & Fares: 2026 Price Guide
Athens uses a unified ticketing system. One ticket works for everything: buses, metro, and trams. Note that drivers do not sell tickets -you must buy them at metro stations or street kiosks (Periptero).
|
Ticket Type |
Price |
Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|
|
90-Minute Flat Fare |
1.20 € |
Perfect for quick cross-town trips |
|
24-Hour Daily Pass |
4.10 € |
Best value for a full day of sightseeing |
|
3-Day Tourist Ticket |
20.00 € |
Includes Round-trip Airport transfer |
Tickets must be validated at the blue electronic scanners when entering the metro or boarding buses and trams. A ticket becomes valid from the moment of first validation, not purchase. Inspections are frequent, especially in central areas and on airport routes, and fines are high if you’re caught without a valid ticket. If you plan to use public transport multiple times in one day, a daily or multi-day pass is usually the most cost-effective option.
Insider Tips for a Smooth Athens Bus Experience
- The "Hand Signal" Rule: Athens buses don't stop by default. When you see your bus approaching, wave your hand clearly to signal the driver to stop.
- The Stop Button: Don't wait until the bus stops to get up. Press the "Stop" button as soon as you pass the station before yours.
- Airport Express (X93-X97): These lines run 24/7. They are the most reliable way to get to the airport in the middle of the night (Ticket: ~5.50 €).
- Validation: Always "tap" your ticket on the blue electronic scanners. Greek transit police are strict, and fines are heavy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Athens Public Transport
Does Google Maps work in Athens?
Yes! Google Maps is well integrated with live data from the Athens transport authority. It’s one of the easiest tools for planning routes, but keeping the official Telematics app as a backup is recommended.
Is public transport in Athens safe for tourists?
Yes. Metro, buses, and trams are generally very safe. Just watch your belongings during peak hours and on crowded lines.What types of public transport are available in Athens?
Athens has a metro system, city buses, trolleybuses, trams, and suburban trains. All of them are connected under the same ticketing system.
Can I use one ticket for buses, metro, and trams?
Yes. A standard ticket is valid across buses, metro, trams, and trolleybuses within the time limit printed on the ticket.
Where can I buy public transport tickets?
Tickets can be purchased at metro stations, ticket machines, kiosks (periptera), and at the airport. Most machines offer an English interface.
Do buses in Athens accept cash payments?
No. You must buy a ticket before boarding. Tickets are not sold by the driver.How do I validate my ticket?
Tickets must be validated at the machines located at metro entrances or inside buses and trams. Failure to validate may result in a fine.Are there day passes or tourist tickets?
Yes. There are 24-hour and multi-day passes available, which are often convenient for tourists planning to travel frequently.
Is public transport reliable in Athens?
Generally yes, especially the metro. Buses can be affected by traffic, so allow extra time during busy hours.
What are the operating hours of public transport?
Metro lines usually run from early morning until around midnight. On weekends, some lines operate later at night.
How do I get from Athens Airport to the city center?
You can use the metro, express airport buses, suburban train, or a taxi. Public transport options are reliable and clearly signposted at the airport.
Is public transport accessible for people with luggage?
Yes. Metro stations usually have elevators, and buses serving the airport are designed to handle luggage.
What happens if there is a transport strike?
Strikes do occur occasionally. Always check official transport apps or local news, especially before airport travel.
