Getting around a new city with kids can sometimes feel like a full-day activity in itself — there’s the stroller to fold, the little feet that tire fast, and of course, the classic question: “Are we there yet?” Fortunately, Athens makes family mobility easier than you might think. With a mix of walkable streets, an easy-to-use metro system, scenic trams, and accessible taxis, getting from one legendary site to the next becomes part of the adventure.
This guide offers practical insights for family travel in Athens, with everything you need to know about local transportation — including how to navigate the city efficiently, what modes of transit suit which age group, and how to turn even a simple metro ride into a mythological moment your kids won’t forget.
👣 Exploring on Foot: Athens Is Surprisingly Walkable
The central area of Athens, where most historic landmarks are located, is wonderfully compact. The Acropolis, Ancient Agora, Plaka, Monastiraki, and Syntagma Square are all within walking distance. Pedestrian-only streets around Plaka and the Acropolis Museum make strolling with children pleasant and safe.
Tips:
Some areas are paved with marble or ancient stones — wear proper shoes.
Lightweight strollers with sturdy wheels are best for cobblestone and uneven terrain.
🚇 Mastering the Metro: Fast, Clean, and Family-Friendly
Athens’ metro is a modern, air-conditioned, and safe system — with signs in both Greek and English.
Key points:
3 lines: Red (Line 2), Blue (Line 3), Green (Line 1)
Serves most tourist attractions and the airport
Kids under 6 ride free; ages 6–18 get discounts with ID
A 72-hour tourist pass covers unlimited rides and 2 airport trips
Family tip: Syntagma Station has archaeological displays — like a mini museum underground!
🚦 Choosing the Right Metro Line
Line 2 (Red): Acropolis, Syntagma, Omonia
Line 3 (Blue): Monastiraki to the airport
Line 1 (Green): Access to Piraeus port for island trips
Make it fun: Let your kids track stops or follow the map to get them involved in the journey.
🚊 The Tram: Scenic Travel Toward the Sea
Take a break from ruins and ride the tram to the Athenian Riviera — stops include Glyfada and Voula.
Why families love it:
Smooth, stroller-friendly ride
Relaxing coastal views
Great for beach days or quiet sightseeing
🚌 Buses and Trolleybuses: Best for the Brave
Athens has a broad bus network, including yellow trolleybuses. However, they can be harder to navigate.
Notes:
Unpredictable schedules
Not ideal for strollers or non-Greek speakers
Validate tickets on board
Avoid during rush hour for a better experience.
🚕 Taxis & Ride Apps: When You Need a Break
Taxis are plentiful and affordable.
Use the BEAT app (formerly Taxibeat):
English-friendly
Track arrival and pay by card
Can request child-friendly vehicles
Great for:
Bad weather
Tired toddlers
Long museum days
👶 Strollers, Carriers & City Terrain
Stroller-friendly areas:
Syntagma
Plaka
Museum District
Baby carrier recommended for:
Acropolis
Anafiotika (narrow steps, uneven paths)
Most metro stations have elevators and central areas have ramps.
🏘️ Neighborhoods That Make Moving Easy
Plaka: Flat, charming, walkable
Monastiraki: Energetic, metro-connected
Kolonaki: Upscale, museum access, wide sidewalks
Glyfada: Coastal, tram-accessible, playgrounds and cafés
☔ What to Do When It Rains
Go underground: metro stations connect many attractions
Taxis are handy in wet weather
Buy umbrellas at corner kiosks
Visit indoor gems like:
Acropolis Museum
Hellenic Children’s Museum
Benaki Museum
📱 Athens Travel Apps That Help
BEAT: Call and pay for taxis
Moovit / Google Maps: Public transport planning
ATH.ENA Card: Tap & go pass for metro, tram, and bus — includes airport access
🎲 Myth Match Metro: A Game for Kids
Assign gods or heroes to metro stations:
Acropolis Station: Athena
Monastiraki: Hermes
Syntagma: Zeus
Omonia: Hades
Reward: Stickers, pastries, or the right to pick the next gelato flavor!
🌟 Final Thoughts: Transportation as a Family Adventure
In Athens, getting around can be just as fun as the destination. Whether zooming through the metro like modern heroes or gliding along the coast by tram, every ride becomes a memory.
So grab your ATH.ENA card, hold hands tight, and explore a city where even transportation feels like a story unfolding.