Is There Uber In Athens 2024? Yes, But…

So, you want to know: Is there Uber in Athens?

If you are planning a trip to Athens, but you’re not quite sure how transportation will work, then you’ve come to the right place.

While there is Uber in Athens, it is not the same service you may be using in your home town. Uber drivers are basically licenced cab drivers here with ride prices similar to taxi fairs.

In this post, we will take a closer look at the various forms of transport available in Athens and explore their respective strengths and weaknesses so that you can make an informed decision about which mode is best for your visit. Whether it is taking buses or taxis, or even renting a car in Athens, rest assured that getting around won’t be a hassle when visiting Athens!

Is There Uber In Athens: At A Glance

Does Uber work in Athens?

If you’re planning a trip to Athens and wondering if you can rely on Uber for transportation, the answer is yes but with some limitations.

While Uber operates in Athens, the service is only available for licensed taxi drivers due to a court dispute in 2018 in which Uber’s company was challenged by the local taxi unions.

This means that the UberX service, which is based on amateur drivers providing cheap transport services, is not available in Athens, and the drivers who are authorized to use the app are Athens taxi drivers. As a result, when you use Uber in Athens, you can expect similar prices to those of regular taxis.

Overall, while Uber in Athens may not be as affordable as other locations, it still serves as a reliable option for transportation.

Local Taxis vs Uber In Athens

As with any transportation option, there are certainly pros and cons to consider when using Uber in Athens.

One of the biggest advantages is the trip estimate feature, which allows users to see the cost of their ride before ever getting in the car.

Additionally, the ability to see the car’s registration plate and type and colour provides an added sense of security, which can be especially important for solo travellers. You can also see other customers’ reviews, which can be pretty handy and it protects you from dealing with unpleasant people.

Another perk is that payment is made using the app, eliminating the need to carry the right amount of cash on you and often having to negotiate the ride price.

However, it’s important to note that during rush hour it may be easier to hail a traditional taxi than to wait for an available Uber. 

As for the price, since Athens Uber drivers are also taxi drivers, expect similar prices.

How Much Does An Uber Taxi In Athens Cost?

As we mentioned in the paragraph above, Uber Athens taxis have similar prices to ordinary taxis, and whether you’ll find them cheap or expensive depends on your home country’s prices, you’re comparing them to.

Is There Uber In Athens Airport?

If you’re flying into Athens Airport and need a way to get to your hotel or other destination, you might be wondering if Uber is available. The answer is yes! You can use your normal Uber app, to find a ride, but as we mentioned earlier in this article, Uber is serviced by standard yellow taxi drivers, so you can also expect a similar price to an ordinary taxi.

The difference is that you can see the estimated cost for your ride and read reviews of drivers before booking your fair.

However, if you’re arriving at night, it might be a good idea to pre-book a private transport to ensure a smooth and speedy exit from the airport. 

Getting Around Athens Without Uber

✔️ Athens Metro

If you’re planning to explore Athens, then using the metro is an efficient way to get around the city. The Athens Metro system is one of the most modern metro systems in Europe. It is clean, safe, and easy to use, making it an ideal transport option for both locals and tourists.

The network spans across the city making it convenient for travellers to get to popular tourist spots, including the Acropolis, Plaka, Monastiraki and Syntagma Square. You can also use Metro to get to the airport and ferry port of Piraeus.

We use Metro Athens every time we visit Athens. A single ticket costs €1.20 which is an absolute bargain and there are regular services throughout the day to get you where you want to go. Just make sure to keep an eye on your belongings as you would on the metro in any other part of the world.

*Also, please note that the airport line has a separate ticket and it cost €9 for a single ride.

✔️ Hop On Hop Off Athens

If you’re not a fan of public transport, exploring the city with a hop on hop off bus Athens can be an excellent starting point. The bus allows you to see all the major sights and attractions, with the added benefit of being able to hop off and explore at your leisure.

You can choose between two ticket options, either 24 or 72 hours, depending on how much time you have. Additionally, you can choose to purchase a ticket for one route or all the routes, which includes a special route that takes you to the coast and stops at various beaches, which is perfect if you’re looking to spend some time by the water.

The bus also stops at the cruise terminal, making it an ideal option for cruise passengers. As you ride, you will hear commentary that provides interesting facts about Athens.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that during peak season, the tourist buses may get crowded and get stuck in traffic.

Best Places To Stay In Athens 

TIP: If you stay in Plaka, Monastiraki or Psiri you will be based centrally and probably won’t need to be using Uber in Athens Greece or public transport at all. Most Athens points of interest are located within walking distance of each other.

Here are some of the best places to stay in Athens:

Best Athens Tours 

🌟Athens Food Tour

If you’re a lover of Greek cuisine, taking an Athens food tour is an absolute must. Not only will you get to sample delicious local dishes, but you’ll also learn about the history and culture behind them. From the savoury souvlaki to the sweet and flaky baklava, there’s something for every palate.

On this tour, you’ll usually visit local markets, tavernas, and bakeries, where you’ll meet the people behind the food and gain insight into their techniques and recipes. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the food and culture of Athens, and perhaps even pick up a few tips on how to recreate these dishes back home.

Below, we are leaving the link to the food tour we did and loved! We are big foodies and loved all the food we got to taste on this tour!

🌟Dinner In The Sky

If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience, Dinner in the Sky Athens is a must-try! It is a unique experience that combines amazing views of the city with delightful food and drinks. Strapped into seats around a circular dining table, guests are lifted 40 meters into the air by a crane.

The experience offers an exceptional vantage point to witness the stunning landscapes of Greece, including the views of the majestic Acropolis. The menu is curated by award-winning chefs to deliver a culinary adventure that is worth experiencing. From the starters to the desserts, every plate is perfectly executed.

Taking part in this activity was by far the best thing we’ve done in Athens and we can’t recommend it enough! We loved every bite of our fine dining 6-course menu accompanied by the free-flowing wine!

🌟Athens Bike Tour

If you’re bored of walking everywhere and want to try something different, then this may be the perfect tour for you. Not only is it a fun and unique way to see the city, but a bike tour through Athens is also great exercise.

During the tour, you’ll ride through the heart of Athens and see all the major landmarks, all while experiencing the local culture. Your knowledgeable guide will provide you with interesting facts and insights about each stop along the way, giving you a deeper understanding and appreciation for the history and significance of Athens.

We really enjoyed the tour! Cycling on e-bikes felt effortless and pleasant and after the tour, we were well-orientated on where everything is in the city.

Is There Uber In Athens Greece: FAQ

Is There Uber Eats In Athens?

If you’re wondering whether Uber Eats is available in Athens, unfortunately, the answer is no. However, there is still an excellent alternative available for food delivery needs – the E-food app. Similar to Uber Eats Athens E-food is a reliable food delivery platform that connects customers with local restaurants in Athens.

With a quick and easy-to-use app, users can browse menus and order their favourite meals with just a few taps. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a cosy dinner at home, E-food has got you covered.

We stayed in Athens for 2 weeks and used this app on several occasions when we didn’t feel like going out for dinner. The app had a good selection of restaurants and we found it easy to use and reliable.

Can I use my Uber app in Greece?

Yes, you can use your Uber app in Greece. However, as we mentioned earlier in this post, the UberX service is not available in Athens. Instead, drivers who are authorized to use the app are all licensed cab drivers and they will charge similar prices to taxis.

It is also important to note that Greece Uber services may not be available in all cities in Greece, so make sure to check in advance to see if the app works where you are travelling. So far, Uber is available in Santorini, Mykonos, Thessaloniki, Corfu and Athens.

What taxi app is used in Athens?

The taxi app most commonly used in Athens, especially by foreign visitors, is the Uber app. However, Freenow, formerly known as Beat, is most popular amongst the locals.

Both apps allow users to book a licensed cab via an easily navigable and secure user interface. With both apps, users can also access real-time pricing information and reviews of drivers provided by other customers so they can make an informed decision when choosing a ride option.

Are taxis expensive in Athens?

Taxis in Athens are not necessarily expensive, although prices may vary depending on the distance and time spent travelling. Generally speaking, a ride from central Athens to Piraeus Port will cost approximately €20 while a ride from downtown to Athen’s airport costs between €40-45. Prices can be checked beforehand with many local taxi apps such as Uber and Freenow.

Is it easy to get Uber from Athens Airport?

Yes, it is easy to get an Uber from Athens Airport. However, as we mentioned before in this post, the available drivers on the app are all licensed yellow cab drivers and they will charge similar prices to taxis.

When using the app at Athens airport you can expect a slightly higher price due to airport surcharges. Make sure to enter the correct destination and check the estimated price before booking your ride.

Do cabs in Athens take credit cards?

Yes, most cabs in Athens do accept credit cards for payment. However, it’s always best to check with the driver first before getting in the car. Additionally, you can use any of the taxi apps available in Athens such as Uber or Freenow and pay with your card securely through the app.

What is the cheapest way from Athens airport to city?

The cheapest way from Athens airport to the city is by public transportation. Taking the metro is generally considered to be the most affordable option, with a single ticket costing around 9 euros per person. You can get onto the direct metro line and get to Monastiraki Square without any changes in about 50 minutes.

Is There Uber In Athens: Final Thoughts

Despite its limited availability, Uber in Athens is a decent and viable transportation option for tourists and locals alike. Whether you’re looking to get to the airport or the ferry port quickly and comfortably or just want a reliable ride back after a night on the town, Uber Athens Greece is a good option.

For those looking for a more affordable mode of transport, the Athens metro is the best option, providing good links with the airport and the ferry port. And, if you want to avoid having to commute altogether, stay in one of the hotels in Monastiraki, Plaka or Psiri.