The system, briefly
The Athens tram dates from the 2004 Olympic period and is now operated by STASY. It serves the centre, Faliro, Piraeus and the southern coastal front depending on the line and the current operating pattern. For Glyfada or Voula you may need to change at a tram junction, so always check the boards and the direction before you board.
When the tram is worth it
- For a coastal ride without rushing. On many sections it runs close to the sea and gives you a good look at southern Athens.
- For beaches and cafes on the southern front. Edem, Alimos, Glyfada and Voula are easier by tram than they first look on the map. See the Athens Riviera day-trip guide when published.
- For a route with views. It is slower than the metro, but that is part of the point: you sit, look out and get off where it suits you.
- For using the normal city ticket. The tram is covered by the standard city tickets and passes, unless the fare table changes. See the tickets and passes guide.
The main stops
Syntagma (T1)
A central access point when the city-centre connection is running. Always check whether your tram starts there on the day you travel or whether another tram stop is more practical.
SEF / Faliro
A useful point for Faliro, SEF and links toward Piraeus or the coastal direction. For the SNFCC, check which tram stop leaves you closer before you set out. See the SNFCC guide when published.
Edem
One of the easiest first stops for a quick contact with the sea. There are cafes and food nearby, although the atmosphere changes by season.
Glyfada (Plateia Esperidon)
A good stop for shopping, cafes, food and access toward southern-coast beaches. Allow time if you are coming all the way from the centre.
Voula (terminus)
The southern end of the coastal route, with access toward Voula beaches. It is often a quieter option than Glyfada, depending on the day and the season.
Note: no direct tram to Vouliagmeni
Vouliagmeni and Sounio are not served directly by the tram. From Voula or Glyfada you continue by bus, taxi or an organised day trip. See the Sounion guide.
Operating hours and frequency
Mon–Thu, Sun
Trams start early and finish late, but the exact timetable can vary by line.
Fri–Sat
Some lines may run later. Check before you rely on a late-night return.
Frequency peak
More frequent at peak times, though still not as frequent as the metro.
Frequency off-peak
More spread out outside peak hours and later in the evening. Check the board at the stop.
A classic day out by tram
A relaxed tram day out
- Start late in the morning. Avoid peak time and check the tram direction before you board.
- Pause at Faliro or near the SNFCC. If you want a cultural stop, check which tram stop is most useful first.
- Continue toward Edem, Alimos or Glyfada. Choose between a short beach stop, a cafe or lunch.
- If you still have time, continue to Voula. The route is slower, but it gives you a fuller picture of coastal Athens.
- Head back before you are tired. The return by tram takes time, especially if there is a wait or a change.
For transport, a normal city ticket or pass is enough, depending on the current fare table. For coffee and lunch on the coast, expect prices closer to the suburbs than to the cheapest parts of the centre.
Beaches accessible by tram
- Edem — an easy first stop for sea, coffee and a short walk.
- Alimos — several options along the coast, with different levels of organisation depending on the spot.
- Glyfada — more lively, with many cafes, food options and shopping.
- Voula — a quieter choice if you want to go further south.
- Not by tram: Vouliagmeni Lake, Astir Vouliagmeni and Sounio need another form of transport.
Eating along the line
South of Faliro you will find cafes, tavernas and more suburban-style restaurants near the sea. The most visible places right on the seafront are not always the most interesting. Often it is worth walking one block inland, especially in Glyfada or Alimos, for a better balance of price and quality.
Tickets and validation
The tram uses the same ticketing system as the other city modes. Buy a ticket or load your card before boarding and validate immediately inside the tram. Inspections do happen, and an unvalidated ticket is treated as if you did not pay.
Accessibility
The tram is one of the easier options for passengers avoiding stairs, because the stops are at street level and the vehicles are low-floor. Even so, check the stop and the surrounding pavements, because ramps, crossings and pavement quality are not identical everywhere.
How to get to the tram from Angel Athens (Ioulianou 50)
From Ioulianou 50, the nearest metro station is Victoria on Line 1. For Syntagma, you can go on Line 1 to Omonia and then change to Line 2 for Syntagma, or take a taxi or bus if you want a simpler transfer. If the tram is not starting from Syntagma on the day you travel, follow the app directions for the nearest active tram stop.
FAQ
Is the tram safe at night?
Generally yes, especially at central and coastal stops where there are other people around. Late at night, check the last tram and wait in a well-lit area.
Can I take a bicycle?
They are allowed under certain conditions, depending on the time, the crowding and the bicycle type. Folding bikes are the easier case. Check the current rules before you travel with a standard bicycle.
Does the tram connect to the airport?
No. For airport, use Metro Line 3 or X95 bus or Suburban Rail. (See airport metro guide.)
Are there toilets at tram stops?
At most stops, no. It is better to plan around a cafe, shopping point or beachside venue at your destination.
Is the tram busier in summer?
Yes. Summer weekends are busier on the southern route, especially toward the beaches. Start earlier if you want a more comfortable ride.
— Kathy
