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d_kakavouli

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Of course, there are many reputable taxi drivers in Greece, and these days it's hard to get ripped off… but you always have to remain cautious. Some of the best advice that I can give you about taking taxis in Athens is knowing a bit about what is the normal price for your area and distance. I recommend that you ask waiters, Greek friends, or your hotel concierge about what should be expected for your trip. Before you start your ride, make sure that you ask about how much the trip will cost. And make sure that they turn the meter on at the start of your trip. In addition, I always check Google maps to make sure that the taxi driver is taking the fastest route.
 
Of course, there are many reputable taxi drivers in Greece, and these days it's hard to get ripped off… but you always have to remain cautious. Some of the best advice that I can give you about taking taxis in Athens is knowing a bit about what is the normal price for your area and distance. I recommend that you ask waiters, Greek friends, or your hotel concierge about what should be expected for your trip. Before you start your ride, make sure that you ask about how much the trip will cost. And make sure that they turn the meter on at the start of your trip. In addition, I always check Google maps to make sure that the taxi driver is taking the fastest route.
You can use this, it will give you approximate cost for day and night trip. It takes into account the traffic as well.

 
You can use this, it will give you approximate cost for day and night trip. It takes into account the traffic as well.

Amazing resource!! Thank you so much
 
Of course, there are many reputable taxi drivers in Greece, and these days it's hard to get ripped off… but you always have to remain cautious. Some of the best advice that I can give you about taking taxis in Athens is knowing a bit about what is the normal price for your area and distance. I recommend that you ask waiters, Greek friends, or your hotel concierge about what should be expected for your trip. Before you start your ride, make sure that you ask about how much the trip will cost. And make sure that they turn the meter on at the start of your trip. In addition, I always check Google maps to make sure that the taxi driver is taking the fastest route.
We have both Uber and TaxiBeat downloaded to our phones. Per our discussions with some cab drivers, Uber is a better deal for them. But use them both, because you have better bet on securing a taxi. DO NOT get a cab from the port, as the meter is always "broken" and they will rip you off more often than not. Walk inland a bit and use your apps. Good news is that the Metra now runs into Piraeus port.
 
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We have both Uber and TaxiBeat downloaded to our phones. Per our discussions with some cab drivers, Uber is a better deal for them. But use them both, because you have better bet on securing a taxi. DO NOT get a cab from the port, as the meter is always "broken" and they will rip you off more often than not. Walk inland a bit and use your apps. Good news is that the Metra now runs into Piraeus port.
I've had the same experience, it's a bit tricky to get a good driver from the airport.
 
I've had the same experience, it's a bit tricky to get a good driver from the airport.
Depending on where you are going and the number of bags you have, there is both the Tram and a bus that you can use from the airport. We are in Alimos near the water and the express bus works great, and its only 6 euro. There is a ticket station at the airport on the far end of the B side.
 
Hey, this is all really good information for living and traveling in Athens. I checked the taxi-calculator against the Uber estimate and they were pretty close (11.40 vs 12.25). You can use Uber's global estimator here: Uber Estimate
 
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Hey, this is all really good information for living and traveling in Athens. I checked the taxi-calculator against the Uber estimate and they were pretty close (11.40 vs 12.25). You can use Uber's global estimator here: Uber Estimate
Excellent resource, I've never seen this before but it seems pretty accurate. I used it for my own neighborhood.
 
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I have had good luck taking taxis from the airport or the port in Athens or wherever else in Greece but before I get in, I ask them the fare, and if I don't like it or think it sounds like a rip off I move on and ask another driver. Eventually I find one who quotes me a reasonable rate. Many don't run the meter in those situations and prefer to quote a standard rate. I wait to agree with them about the rate before I get in. Sometimes, when I find a driver I like, I take their card and call them directly throughout the trip.
 
I've had some tricky experiences in taxis in Greece until I found a driver I can rely on. I call him whenever I am in Greece and I trust that his rates are fair and he won't overcharge.
 
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Many taxis won't accept a card if you walk up to them and ask for a ride. The way you find a taxi that will accept a card is by downloading the app Beat. Uber is not a thing in Greece, so don't bother with it. The taxis forced uber out of the country by, literally, beating anyone who tried to uber in the country.
 
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I've had some tricky experiences in taxis in Greece until I found a driver I can rely on. I call him whenever I am in Greece and I trust that his rates are fair and he won't overcharge.
This is really great advice. Everything becomes easier in Greece when you develop a relationship with someone and then are able to depend on them. I highly recommend doing the same.
 
This is really great advice. Everything becomes easier in Greece when you develop a relationship with someone and then are able to depend on them. I highly recommend doing the same.
It's excellent advice. I hope more people take advantage of this!
 
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It's excellent advice. I hope more people take advantage of this!
I wish I did this more, it's a bit difficult for me because I don't go to Greece often and can't make connections
 

Any must-try dessert spots in Athens?

I might be heading to Athens this summer, and I’ve already started making a mental list of all the food I want to try—but I feel like desserts deserve their own plan.

I know about some of the classics like loukoumades and baklava, but I’d love to hear about specific spots that are really worth going out of the way for. Whether it’s a traditional pastry shop, a place known for one standout dessert, or even something more modern, I’m open to all of it.

Also curious if there are any places that are especially good in the summer, something refreshing, lighter, or just perfect after a long day walking around the city.
Would love any recommendations or favorites you’ve found!

Best Athens Restaurants with Acropolis Views?

I’ve been to Athens many times over the years, but one thing I never get tired of is a great meal paired with an Acropolis view. I’ve already been to a few of the classic spots, but for my next trip I’d love to branch out and try something new, maybe somewhere a little unexpected, or a place locals actually enjoy as much as visitors.

I’m open to anything: modern Greek, traditional tavernas, rooftop bars with small plates, or even hotels with great terraces that allow non-guests. What are your favorite restaurants in Athens with Acropolis views?

Favorite day trips from Athens?

I was talking to someone recently about Athens and realized that a lot of people use it mostly as a base before heading to the islands, but there seem to be so many good day trips nearby that don’t get discussed as much.

The obvious ones like Delphi, Hydra, Nafplio, Cape Sounion, and Aegina always come up, but I’m curious which places people actually enjoyed the most once they went. Sometimes the smaller or less hyped trips end up being the most memorable.

I’m especially interested in places that are realistically doable in a single day without feeling rushed. Could be history-focused, food-focused, beach towns, mountain villages, or even somewhere mostly known for the scenery and atmosphere.

Would love to hear everyone’s favorite day trips from Athens, especially places that surprised you once you got there.

Is it worth spending time in Athens in August?

I’m starting to plan a trip to Greece, but the only month I’m really able to travel this year is August. I know that’s peak season for a lot of the islands, but I’ve heard mixed things about Athens in August.

Some people have told me the city can feel pretty quiet because many Athenians leave for their villages or the islands during that time. Others say it’s still lively because of tourism. I’m trying to figure out whether it’s worth spending a few days there before heading to another part of Greece for a Panagia festival we want to attend.

Athens is such an important city historically and culturally that I don’t want to skip it if it’s still enjoyable. On the other hand, if a lot of places are closed or the city feels half-empty, maybe it makes more sense to focus our time elsewhere?

Is the Athens Riviera worth visiting if you're staying downtown?

I'm curious whether the Athens Riviera is worth exploring if you're staying in central Athens. I've heard wonderful things about the coastal areas, especially Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, and the beaches along the way, but I'm wondering whether it's worth taking time away from sightseeing downtown.

I love the idea of experiencing a different side of Athens, especially somewhere with seaside cafés, beautiful views, and perhaps a relaxing lunch overlooking the water. However, I'm not sure how much time I should set aside for it.

Is it realistic to visit the Riviera for just an afternoon, or would you recommend spending an entire day there? Also, is public transportation convenient, or is renting a car a better option?

I'd love to hear which areas are your favorites and whether you think the experience is worthwhile for visitors with limited time in Athens.
Share and discuss your Athens photos, questions and experiences!

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