Athens Buses & Trolleybuses

Overview

Athens' bus and trolleybus network is operated by OASA (Athens Urban Transport Organization). The fleet has been gradually modernized with low-floor vehicles equipped with deployable ramps. Buses serve areas not covered by the Metro, including many neighborhoods and suburban routes.

Bus Accessibility

Low-Floor Buses

A significant portion of the OASA bus fleet consists of low-floor vehicles with deployable ramps for wheelchair users. However, not every bus on every route is guaranteed to be a low-floor model. Older, non-accessible vehicles remain in service on some routes.

Ramp Deployment

On accessible buses:

• The ramp is located at the middle door (the second door from the front)
• The driver deploys the ramp using a button or switch
• You may need to actively signal the driver before the bus arrives. Wave, call out, or position yourself visibly near the middle door area at the bus stop
• Some wheelchair users report needing to be assertive to get the driver's attention for ramp deployment

Priority Wheelchair Space

Low-floor buses have a designated wheelchair space near the middle door with:

• Fold-down seats to create space
• Grab rails
• A bell or button to signal the driver before your stop

Trolleybuses

Athens has an extensive trolleybus network running on overhead electric wires. The fleet is being modernized:

• Newer trolleybuses are low-floor with ramp access
• Older trolleybuses may not be accessible
• Coverage is mainly in central Athens and inner suburbs

Bus Stop Accessibility

Key Routes

Airport Buses

• X95: Airport to Syntagma Square. Wheelchair accessible. Runs 24 hours.
• X96: Airport to Piraeus Port. Accessible. For ferry connections.
• X93: Airport to Kifisos Bus Station. For intercity bus connections.
• X97: Airport to Elliniko Metro station.

Central Athens Routes

Most central routes pass through major transit hubs (Syntagma, Omonia, Monastiraki). Check OASA's website (oasa.gr) or Google Maps for specific route planning.

Trolleybus Routes

Trolleybus routes cover central Athens corridors. Key routes for tourists include those running along Panepistimiou Street and Vasilissis Sofias avenue.

Fares

Buses, trolleybuses, the tram, and the Metro all use the same ticket system:

• Single ticket: EUR 1.20 (valid for 90 minutes on all public transport)
• 24-hour ticket: EUR 4.10
• Purchase tickets from ticket machines at Metro stations or some kiosks before boarding

Tips

• If the first bus that arrives is not accessible, wait for the next one. Most routes run frequently (every 10 to 20 minutes on major routes).
• Carry your validated ticket with you. Inspectors do check, and fines for riding without a valid ticket are steep.
• Athens traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hours. Budget extra time for bus journeys compared to the Metro.
• The OASA Telematics app shows real-time bus arrivals, though it does not specifically indicate which vehicles are low-floor.
• Night bus routes (prefixed with "X") run after midnight when the Metro closes. Not all night buses are accessible.