Athens Airport Taxi Services: Availability And Convenience

Athens International Airport offers a range of transportation options for travellers, including taxis, buses, and private transfer services. In this article, we will specifically focus on the availability of taxis at the airport and provide essential information for passengers considering this option.

Taxi fares and pricing

Athens airport taxis offer a set fare for the journey from Athens Airport to the centre of Athens. During the daytime (5:00 a.m.–12:00 a.m.), the taxi ride will cost you €40, or €42 according to some sources. During the nighttime (12:00 a.m.–5:00 a.m.), the price rises to €55, or €58 according to some sources. The price includes all applicable surcharges, such as luggage fees, toll costs, VAT, and airport charges.

If your final destination is beyond the city centre, the base taxi fee is €1.80 and the price per kilometre is €0.90 during the day. During the night shift, the base fee remains the same, but the charge per kilometre increases to €1.25.

Athens airport taxi drivers are obligated to accept cashless payments, but some may claim that their card machine is broken to get paid in cash. Therefore, if you want to pay by credit card, you should first check with the driver.

You can also book a taxi in advance to secure the best prices and avoid waiting in line during peak hours. Pre-booking a taxi can also help you avoid being overcharged.

How to book a taxi in advance

Athens Airport's official taxi rank is located just outside Exit 3 on the arrivals level. However, it is always recommended to book your taxi in advance to secure the best prices and avoid waiting in line during peak hours.

Choose a Reputable Company:

Select a well-known and trusted taxi company, such as Welcome Pickups, Free Now, or Athens Airport Taxi. You can book with these companies online or through their mobile apps.

Compare Prices:

Different companies may offer varying rates, so it is worth comparing prices before booking. Some companies may charge a higher fee for advance bookings, while others may offer discounts or fixed rates. Be sure to also clarify whether there are any additional fees, such as toll charges or luggage fees.

Book in Advance:

It is advisable to book your taxi at least 16 hours before your landing time. This will ensure that your driver is ready and waiting for you at the arrivals gate, holding a sign with your name. Booking in advance can also help you avoid the longer waiting times typically experienced during the peak season.

Provide Flight Details:

When booking, be sure to provide your flight number and arrival time. Many reputable taxi companies offer flight monitoring services and will keep an eye on your flight status. This means that even if your flight is delayed, your driver will be there when you land.

Specify Your Requirements:

If you require a wheelchair-accessible taxi or a vehicle that accommodates a larger group, be sure to specify this when booking. This will ensure that the company can provide the appropriate vehicle for your needs.

Payment Options:

Clarify the payment options available with your chosen taxi company. While some companies may accept card payments, others may require cash. If you intend to pay by card, it is always a good idea to have some local currency with you as a backup.

By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free booking process for your taxi from Athens Airport.

How to identify a licensed taxi

Athens International Airport offers a wide range of transportation options, including taxis, for travellers arriving in the Greek capital. The airport taxis provide a comfortable and air-conditioned ride to your destination within the city.

• Licensed Athens taxis are easily recognisable as they are yellow and have a "TAXI" sign on their rooftop.
• All licensed taxis in Athens are equipped with meters. Make sure that the meter is switched on as soon as you get into the taxi.
• You can also identify a licensed taxi by its visible identification marks.
• Licensed taxis will usually be waiting at designated taxi ranks or stands at the airport. At Athens Airport, the official taxi rank is located outside Exit 3 of the Arrivals level.
• If you want to pre-book your taxi, you can use reputable apps such as Free Now (formerly Beat) or Uber, which only work with licensed taxi drivers.
• When taking a taxi, always ask for a receipt at the end of your ride. This will be helpful if you have any complaints or issues during your trip.

Pros and cons of taking a taxi

Athens International Airport offers a range of transportation options, including taxis, buses, and limousines. If you're considering taking a taxi, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision. Here's a detailed breakdown:

Pros of Taking a Taxi:

• Comfort and Convenience: Athens airport taxis provide a comfortable and air-conditioned ride to your destination. You can avoid the hassle of overcrowded public transportation and ensure a smooth journey to your hotel or accommodation.
• Fixed Fares for Airport Transfers: Taxi fares from Athens Airport to the city centre are predetermined. During the day (5:00 am – 12:00 am), the flat rate is €40, and from midnight to 5:00 am, it increases to €54-€55. This transparency in pricing helps you budget your transportation costs effectively.
• Availability and Accessibility: Taxis are available 24/7 at Athens Airport, making it convenient for travellers arriving at any time. The official taxi rank is located outside Exit 3 of the Arrivals level, with taxis queuing up for passengers.
• Safety and Security: If you have concerns about the safety of your belongings, taxis offer a more secure option than public transportation. Additionally, licensed Athens taxis are easily identifiable by their bright yellow colour and the "TAXI" sign on their rooftop.
• Efficiency: Taxis offer a direct ride to your destination without the need for connections or transfers. Depending on traffic levels, a taxi ride from the airport to the heart of Athens can take approximately 35-40 minutes, saving you time and providing a faster alternative to buses.

Cons of Taking a Taxi:

• Potential for Scams: While licensed taxis are available, there is a risk of encountering drivers who may try to overcharge or scam you. Some common issues include claiming that their credit card machine is broken or attempting to charge extra for tolls or baggage.
• Higher Cost: Taxis are generally more expensive than public transportation options like buses. While the fixed fares for airport transfers are convenient, they are still higher than what you would pay for a bus ride.
• Traffic Delays: Athens is known for heavy traffic during peak hours, which can significantly increase the duration and cost of your taxi ride. This can be a significant drawback if you're on a tight schedule or trying to reach your destination promptly.
• Limited Availability During Rush Hour: Finding a taxi during rush hour or peak travel times can be challenging, even with ride-hailing apps like Uber. This may result in longer wait times or the need to pre-book your taxi in advance.

In conclusion, taking a taxi from Athens Airport has its advantages, including comfort, convenience, and fixed fares for airport transfers. However, it's essential to be cautious of potential scams and be prepared for possible traffic delays. Weighing these pros and cons will help you make a well-informed decision about your transportation choice.

How to pay for a taxi ride

Athens Airport taxi drivers are obligated to accept cashless payments, but some may claim that their POS is out of order to get paid in cash. Therefore, if you want to use a credit card, it is best to check with the driver before getting into the taxi. It is also recommended to have two or three credit cards as a backup.

If you want to be sure of the price you will pay and avoid potential scams, it is a good idea to pre-book your taxi transfer. When pre-booking, you can also take advantage of flight monitoring benefits.

If you are taking a taxi from the airport ranks, you will need to join the queue and meet your driver upon entering the next available vehicle.

Athens Airport taxi services allow advance bookings, but you must book at least 16 hours before your landing time.

• Licensed Athens taxis are yellow and have a "TAXI" sign on their rooftop.
• You should always check that the taximeter is zeroed and turned on once you enter the cab.
• You are entitled to a receipt at the end of the ride, which will be useful in case of forgotten items inside the cab or if you want to make a complaint about your driver.
• The time of arrival at your destination determines whether the day or night tariff will be applied.
• Tipping is not obligatory, but it is customary to round up the final fare if you are happy with the service.

Frequently asked questions