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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
 

Best Places in Athens to Photograph Ancient Sites?

I’ve been to Athens a handful of times now, but oddly enough, I’ve never really brought a proper camera. Just the occasional phone snap. Next time, I want to change that — I’m going all in with my gear and planning my trip around photography, especially ancient sites.

Obviously, the Acropolis is top of the list, but I’m wondering: what are the best vantage points to capture it — especially for sunset or night shots?

Are there quieter ruins that offer amazing shots without the crowds? I’m also looking for angles that give context, like city + ruins together.

Nighttime view of the Parthenon?

I’ll be in Athens soon and I’m especially excited to see the Parthenon lit up at night — I’ve heard it’s magical when it’s glowing above the city.

I’d love your tips on the best places to view it after dark. I’m open to rooftop bars, scenic streets, or quiet local spots where you can just sit and take it in. I’ve seen some photos from Lycabettus Hill and Filopappou, but I’m wondering what else people recommend — maybe somewhere less crowded?

Bonus if there’s a view with dinner or drinks involved, but I’m just as happy with a peaceful nighttime stroll and a clear view. I have been to Athens plenty of times - I just never really thought about where to go at night to have a great view.

Spending a month in Athens in summer?

I’ve visited Athens many times, but always for short trips, a week here, a few days there. Next year, I’m thinking of doing something different: spending an entire month in Athens during the summer.

I’d love to hear from anyone who’s stayed long-term in the city. How different does Athens feel when you settle in instead of just visiting? Do you end up finding a rhythm, favorite markets, cafés, or neighborhoods to hang out in?

I’m considering renting an apartment in Pangrati or Koukaki to live like a local. My only concern is the heat, does it get overwhelming in July or August if you’re not escaping to the islands?

Any insights on pacing daily life, day trips, or how locals spend their summer in the city would be really appreciated.

Information About Hadrian's Library

I’ve been to Athens before and have seen the main highlights like the Acropolis, the Agora, and the big museums. On my next trip, I want to dive deeper into the history and explore some of the sites I skipped the first time. One that caught my attention is Hadrian’s Library, near Monastiraki.

From what little I know, it was built by the Roman emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD, and at one point it wasn’t just a library but also included lecture halls and courtyards. I love the idea that Athens was still such a vibrant center of learning during the Roman period, and I’d like to understand more about what’s actually left today.

For anyone who has visited: what should I look out for when walking through Hadrian’s Library? Are there details or stories that make the ruins come alive? Any historical context to know beforehand?

How much time do you really need at the Acropolis?

It’s been several years since I last visited the Acropolis, and I’m trying to help some friends plan their first trip to Athens. I honestly can’t remember how long I spent there, I just remember being completely absorbed in everything and losing track of time!

They’re wondering how much time to set aside, and I don’t want to underestimate it. I know there’s the main climb, the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and all those sweeping views, plus time for photos and just soaking it all in.

Would you say two hours is enough for a relaxed visit, or does it really take closer to half a day if you include the museum or nearby sites? I’d love to hear what others recommend, especially those who’ve been recently, how long did it take you to see everything without feeling rushed?
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