If you’re planning a trip to Greece, you may be wondering whether you can rely on familiar ride-hailing apps like Bolt, Uber, or FreeNow. After years of strict regulations, these services are now available in Athens - but they operate differently than in many other destinations. Here’s a clear overview to help you navigate transportation during your stay.

Bolt is currently available only in Athens. You can use it throughout the historic center, major tourist districts, the port of Piraeus, surrounding neighborhoods, and for rides to and from Athens International Airport (ATH). Outside the capital, including popular islands like Crete, Santorini, Mykonos, and Rhodes, Bolt is not available.

Uber and FreeNow, however, have a wider presence. Unlike Bolt, both services operate not only in Athens but also in other major tourist destinations. Uber is available in cities like Thessaloniki and in selected holiday regions during the tourist season. FreeNow, which evolved from the former Greek app Taxibeat, also serves Thessaloniki and operates in several additional towns and island areas where licensed taxis partner with the platform.

How Bolt, Uber, and FreeNow Actually Operate in Greece

One important detail that often surprises travelers:

When you order a ride through Bolt, Uber, or FreeNow in Greece, you will not get a private driver. You will always be picked up by a licensed taxi.

This setup is required by Greek law. The apps act as digital booking platforms for taxis rather than as services connecting riders with private drivers.

This means:

• All drivers hold official taxi licenses

• Cars follow Greek taxi regulations

• The app manages booking, routing, and payment

• You get the structure of a regulated taxi with the convenience of a familiar app

For visitors, this model ensures transparent pricing and reduces the chance of misunderstandings.

How to Order a Ride

Using the apps works the same as anywhere else. Choose your pickup location, enter your destination, review the estimated fare, and pay by card or digital wallet. The estimated price displayed in the app helps you avoid surprises, even though fares still follow local taxi tariffs.

Bolt, Uber, and FreeNow all support rides to and from Athens International Airport. This is a convenient option if you prefer to know your route and approximate cost before you get in the car.

Availability and Things to Keep in Mind

In summary, Bolt, Uber and FreeNow offer a convenient and reliable way to get around Athens, providing clarity, short waiting times and the option of digital payments. However, keep in mind that wait times may increase during rush hour, and in narrow streets your driver may ask you to meet them on a nearby main road.