Getting to Athens

We are excited to host the 34th Meeting of the European Society of Thoracic Surgeons (ESTS) in this historic and vibrant city.

To ensure your journey is as smooth as possible, this page provides essential information on reaching Athens from around the globe and navigating its efficient public transport network.

Athens is a major European capital, exceptionally well-connected by air to destinations worldwide, particularly across Europe.

Flying to Athens

Athens International Airport (ATH) serves as Greece’s primary airport and your gateway to the city. It is a modern hub with excellent facilities.

Global Connections
Numerous international airlines operate direct and connecting flights to Athens from major cities across Europe, North America, Asia, and beyond.

European Hubs
For those traveling from within Europe, direct flights are plentiful from almost every major European capital and regional airport.

Public Transportation

Getting to the City

Upon arrival at the AThens International Airport, you have several efficient options to reach the city centre or your accommodation.

Athens Metro

The Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) directly connects the airport to Syntagma Square in the city centre. Services run frequently, offering a fast and convenient transfer.

Suburban Rail (Proastiakos)

This service also connects the airport to Athens Central Railway Station (Larissis Station) and other key suburban areas, with connections to the Metro system.

Express Bus Service

Four express bus routes (X93, X95, X96, X97) operate around the clock from the airport, connecting to various parts of the city, including Syntagma Square and the Port of Piraeus.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals hall. A flat rate applies for transfers between the airport and the city centre (usually 05:00-24:00 daily).

How to Move Around Athens

Athens boasts a comprehensive and user-friendly public transportation system, making it easy to explore the city and reach the conference venue.

Athens Metro

The Athens Metro is a modern, clean, and efficient underground network, widely considered the fastest way to navigate the city.

Routes & Frequency
Metro trains run daily from approximately 5:30 AM to midnight, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays (until around 2:00 AM on Lines 2 and 3).

Keep an eye out for ancient artifacts displayed in some of the central stations!

Buses & Trolleybuses

Athens has an extensive network of public buses and electric trolleybuses, providing comprehensive coverage of the city and its surrounding areas, reaching many destinations not covered by the Metro.

Routes & Frequency
Numerous lines operate, connecting major hubs, residential areas, and points of interest. Most run from around 5:00 AM until midnight. Some express bus routes, particularly those serving the airport, operate 24 hours a day.

Tram

The modern Athens Tram system offers a comfortable and scenic way to travel, primarily connecting the city center (Syntagma Square) with the beautiful coastal areas and beaches of the Athenian Riviera.

It’s a pleasant option for a more relaxed journey and offers connections with Metro lines at key interchange stations.

Tram services generally operate from early morning until midnight, with extended hours on weekends.

Taxis

Yellow taxis are readily available throughout Athens.

You can hail them on the street, find them at designated taxi stands (e.g., at Syntagma Square, major hotels), or book them via popular ride-hailing applications.

Fares are generally reasonable, and meters are legally required. Be aware of the fixed rates for airport transfers.

Public Transportation

Tickets & Passes

Athens public transport operates on a convenient electronic ticketing system known as “Ath.ena Ticket” and rechargeable “Ath.ena Card”.
This integrated system means one ticket is valid across the Metro, buses, trolleybuses, and trams within the urban zone.

Where to Buy

Vending Machines

Found at all Metro and Tram stations, these machines offer all ticket types and accept both cash and card payments.

Staffed Ticket Counters

Available at major Metro and Tram stations during operating hours.

Kiosks & Newsstands

Some local kiosks and newsstands throughout the city also sell basic tickets and can top-up Ath.ena Tickets.

Ticket Types

Standard 90-Minute Ticket – €1.20 – price for reference, subject to change
Valid for 90 minutes across all urban transport modes (excluding airport routes). Ideal for single journeys or short transfers.

24-Hour Pass – €4.10 – price for reference, subject to change
Offers unlimited travel for 24 hours from the first validation (excluding airport routes). Great value for a day of exploring.

5-Day Pass – €8.20 – price for reference, subject to change
Provides unlimited travel for 5 days (excluding airport routes and specific express bus lines).

3-Day Tourist Ticket –  €20.00 – price for reference, subject to change
Includes unlimited travel on all public transport for 3 days and one round trip to/from Athens International Airport by Metro or Express Bus.