One of the top questions visitors ask after their arrival in Athens is, “Can I use Uber here?” It’s a valid concern.
Uber operates in over 10,000 cities globally, providing affordable transportation.
I often use Uber during my travels; it’s a fantastic way to chat with local drivers and learn more about the city.
However, Uber’s services vary by country due to different legal frameworks.
Greece is no different. In 2018, following numerous protests from taxi companies and legal battles, Uber suspended its UberX service.
UberX used non-professional drivers and had employed about 1,300 in Athens.
The situation was tense, with professional taxi drivers accusing Uber drivers of “stealing their jobs” illegally, leading to violent clashes.
Does Athens Have Uber?
After a court ruling, Uber adjusted its operations in Greece.
Leaving wasn’t an option, so they switched to Uber Taxi, which connects users to licensed taxi drivers.
Initially, Uber focused on Athens, a city too important to abandon, with its 4 million residents and huge tourist appeal.
By 2021, Uber expanded to other popular Greek spots like Santorini, Corfu, and Mykonos.
In Athens, Uber now exclusively offers rides in traditional yellow taxis with licensed drivers. You’ll get the car’s registration number, model, and driver rating before confirming a ride. Payment can be made via card or PayPal, even if the driver lacks a POS machine.
Uber Alternatives in Athens
Competition for Uber in Athens is fierce.
FREE NOW (mytaxi): This app is widely used by locals and most taxi drivers. It adds a €1.20 fee, but it’s very popular.
Taxiplon: Another rising app, also for calling taxis.
Keep in mind, during rush hours, finding a taxi via an app can be tough. Drivers often prefer street pickups to avoid app fees.
- Street Hail: If you’re not in a hurry, hailing a taxi on the street is an option. For important trips like catching a flight, pre-booking is safer. I recommend Welcome Pickups for airport and port transfers. Their service is top-notch, with punctual drivers and great reviews on TripAdvisor and Trustpilot. They might be slightly more expensive, but they are worth it.
How Much Will I Pay for a Uber?
Taxi fares in Athens, including Uber Taxi, are regulated by the state.
Prices are based on time, distance, and surcharges, with higher rates at night.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Minimum fare: €4.00
- Base fare: €1.80
- Cost per km: €0.90 (05:00-23:59), €1.25 (00:00-04:59)
- Cost per minute: €0.19 (when the taxi stops)
Minimum fare | €4 |
Base fare | €1.80 |
Cost per kilometer | €0.90 (5:00- 23:59) or €1.25 (0:00- 04:59) |
Cost per minute | €0.19 (the period when the taxi was completely stationary.) |
Surcharges include:
- Airport surcharge: €4.00
- Luggage over 10kg: €0.39 each
- Harbor/bus stops: €1.07
How Much Is Uber From Athens Airport to the City Center?
For trips from the airport to the city center, there’s a flat rate: €40 (05:00-23:59) and €55 (00:00-05:00), including all surcharges and tolls.
Do I Need Uber in Athens?
Uber Taxi is available in Athens, Thessaloniki, Santorini, Corfu, and Mykonos, with plans to expand further.
However, you might not need a taxi if you’re staying within central Athens. The metro is reliable, and walking is a great way to see sights like the Acropolis and the Ancient Agora.
For longer distances, consider renting a car. You can find good deals on Rentalcars.com. For detailed info on getting around Athens, check out comprehensive guides online.
If you do need a taxi, stick to the services mentioned above. They’re more reliable than hailing one off the street.