Planning a trip to Athens, Greece? Whether you’re heading to the Acropolis, strolling through Plaka, or catching the tram to the beach, you’ll need to get around the city efficiently. The good news is, as of 2025, you can easily pay for public transport in Athens using your credit or debit card – no need for paper tickets or confusing machines.

In this travel article, we’ll show you how to use your contactless card to ride the Athens metro, tram, buses, and suburban railway like a local!

✅ Can I Use My Credit Card to Pay for Public Transport in Athens?

Yes! Most public transport stations in Athens now accept contactless credit and debit cards. This includes:

• Athens Metro (Lines 1, 2, 3)

• Tram

• Suburban Railway (Proastiakos)

You can simply tap your card at the gate – just like in London, Paris, or New York.

💳 What Cards Are Accepted?

You can use:

• Visa, Mastercard, or American Express – debit or credit

• Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay on your smartphone or smartwatch

📌 Tip for travelers: Make sure your card is contactless and authorized for international payments before you travel to Greece.

🚆 How to Use a Card at Metro & Train Gates

1. Tap your card on the card reader when entering the station.

2. When exiting, tap the same card again. This ensures the system calculates your fare correctly.

3. You’re charged automatically, usually within a few hours or days.

No paper ticket. No stress. Just tap and go!

💰 How Much Does It Cost?

• A single 90-minute ride across metro, tram, or buses costs €1.20

• If you change lines or modes of transport within 90 minutes, you won’t be charged extra

• The system will not overcharge if you enter and exit correctly

🚨 Each passenger must use their own card – multiple taps on one card won’t work.

🚌 Can I Use My Card on Buses in Athens?

Not yet. Buses and trolleys still require you to use:

• A paper Ath.ena Ticket (available at metro stations)

• A rechargeable Ath.ena Card

But there are plans to expand card payments to buses in the near future.

✈️ What About Airport Transport?

If you’re taking the metro to or from Athens International Airport, note that the standard contactless payment does not cover the airport fare. You must:

• Purchase a special airport ticket from a ticket machine or office

• Or load it onto an Ath.ena Card

🧳 Why This Is Perfect for Tourists in Athens

For visitors, using your credit card for Athens public transport is:

• Easy and fast

• No need to understand Greek machines

• No lines at ticket counters

• No need to carry coins or cash

It’s ideal if you’re only in town for a few days and want to maximize your time exploring ancient ruins, lively neighborhoods, and seaside spots.

🧾 How Do I Know I Was Charged?

You won’t receive a paper ticket, but the fare will appear on your bank or card statement shortly after your trip.

💡 Keep an eye on your mobile banking app to track charges.

🔚 Final Travel Tips for Getting Around Athens

• Use the metro to reach popular spots like the Acropolis, Monastiraki, Syntagma Square, and the National Archaeological Museum.

• Take the tram to reach the Athens Riviera and beaches like Glyfada.

• Plan your trip using Google Maps or the official OASA Telematics app for real-time transit updates.

By using your credit or debit card to travel around Athens, you save time, avoid confusion, and enjoy a smoother travel experience. So get ready to explore ancient and modern Greece — starting with a simple tap at the metro gate!

Need help with Greek transport apps or airport transfers? Drop your questions in the comments!