Athens Taxis & Transfers

Standard Athens Taxis

Athens taxis are yellow sedans, typically Toyota Prius or similar compact vehicles. They are ubiquitous in the city center and relatively affordable.

For Wheelchair Users

Standard Athens taxis require the ability to transfer from your wheelchair to the car seat. Key points:

• The wheelchair folds and goes in the trunk
• Power wheelchairs and larger mobility scooters may not fit in a standard taxi trunk
• No wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV) fleet exists in the standard Athens taxi service
• Drivers are generally willing to help with transfers and loading wheelchairs, but this varies

Fares

Athens taxis use meters. Key rates:

• Flag fall: EUR 1.29 (daytime), EUR 1.69 (nighttime, midnight to 5:00am)
• Per kilometer: EUR 0.74 (daytime), EUR 1.29 (nighttime)
• Minimum fare: EUR 3.50
• Airport fixed rate: Approximately EUR 40 (daytime) or EUR 55 (nighttime) to/from the city center within the ring road

Ride-Hailing Apps

FREE NOW (formerly Beat)

FREE NOW has operated in Athens as the successor to the popular Beat ride-hailing app. The app allows you to book standard taxis and see estimated fares before booking. Note that app availability and branding may change. Check current availability in the App Store or Google Play before your trip.

Uber

Uber operates in Athens but functions differently than in many other cities. In Greece, Uber connects you with licensed taxi drivers rather than private vehicles. The interface is familiar for international travelers.

Tips for App Booking

• You can add notes about wheelchair/accessibility needs when booking
• Neither app guarantees wheelchair-accessible vehicles through standard booking
• For WAV needs, contact specialized services (see below)

Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicles (WAV)

Athens does not have a dedicated fleet of wheelchair-accessible taxis comparable to London's black cabs. For non-transferable wheelchair users who need a vehicle with a ramp or lift, options include:

• Specialized disability transport services: Contact Greek disability organizations or search for "metaforá AmeA Athína" (disability transport Athens). These services use modified vans with ramps or lifts.
• Hotel concierge: Larger hotels can arrange accessible transfers through their contacts. Request this well in advance.
• Airport accessible transfers: Book through your hotel or a specialized provider before arrival. Standard airport taxis do not have WAV capability.

Practical Tips

• Athens taxis are generally safe and affordable, but confirm the meter is running for non-fixed-rate trips
• Taxi ranks are located at major squares, Metro stations, and tourist areas
• Hailing a taxi on the street is common and accepted in Athens
• Keep small bills and coins for payment. Not all taxis accept cards, though this is improving
• Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up the fare is appreciated (1 to 2 euros)
• If a driver refuses to take you because of your wheelchair, note the taxi number (displayed on the side) and report to the tourist police (171)