Athens is home to some of Europe’s most historic sporting venues, ranging from the stadium that hosted the first modern Olympic Games to state-of-the-art football arenas used by some of Greece’s biggest clubs. Whether you’re attending a football match, basketball game, concert, athletics event or simply visiting on a stadium tour, planning your journey in advance will make your day far easier.

The good news is that most of Athens’ major stadiums are well connected by public transport. The city’s Metro, tram and bus network provides quick and affordable access to almost every venue, meaning you rarely need to drive. On major matchdays, public transport is usually the fastest option, as roads around the stadiums can become heavily congested before kick-off and immediately after the final whistle.

Each stadium has its own character. You’ll find the imposing OPAP Arena, home of AEK Athens, in Nea Filadelfeia, while Karaiskakis Stadium, home to Olympiacos, sits beside the coast near Piraeus. The vast Olympic Athletic Center of Athens (OAKA) regularly hosts international sporting events and concerts, while the beautiful Panathenaic Stadium remains one of the world’s most important historic sporting landmarks.

This guide explains the easiest ways to reach every major stadium in Athens, including metro stations, bus routes, walking distances, taxi advice, and practical tips to help you avoid unnecessary delays. Whether you’re travelling from Athens Airport, Piraeus Port or the city centre, you’ll find everything you need to plan your journey with confidence.

Stadium	Home Team / Purpose	Nearest Public Transport	Best For
Panathenaic Stadium	Historic Olympic Stadium	Syntagma or Evangelismos Metro (15–20 min walk)	Olympic history, sightseeing
OPAP Arena	AEK Athens	Metro Line 1 + local bus or walk from Perissos	Football matches, stadium architecture
Karaiskakis Stadium	Olympiacos FC	Faliro Metro Station (Line 1)	Football, easy access from Piraeus
Olympic Stadium (OAKA)	Major sporting events & concerts	Eirini Metro Station (Line 1)	Concerts, athletics, international events
Apostolos Nikolaidis Stadium	Panathinaikos FC	Ampelokipi Metro Station (Line 3)	Historic football atmosphere
Peace and Friendship Stadium (SEF)	Olympiacos Basketball	Faliro Metro Station (Line 1)	Basketball, concerts and indoor events

Athens Public Transport at a Glance

Athens has one of the easiest public transport systems to use in southern Europe, making it straightforward to travel between the city’s stadiums without hiring a car. The network consists of three Metro lines, an extensive bus system, the Athens Tram, suburban railway services and licensed taxis, all working together under a single ticketing system.

For most visitors, the Athens Metro will be your first choice. Trains are modern, air-conditioned, frequent and operate from early morning until around midnight, with extended operating hours on Friday and Saturday nights. Stations are clearly signposted in both Greek and English, while route maps are easy to follow even if it’s your first visit to the city.

The Athens Tram is particularly useful for venues along the Athens Riviera, including areas close to Karaiskakis Stadium and the coastline. Although slower than the Metro, it offers a scenic journey and is an excellent way to travel if you’re combining sightseeing with a visit to a sporting event.

Public transport tickets can be purchased from ticket machines at Metro and tram stations, with instructions available in multiple languages. Visitors can also use contactless bank cards or mobile payment methods on supported services, making it easy to travel without carrying cash. If you’re planning several journeys in one day, an Athens integrated transport ticket usually offers the best value.

Taxis are widely available throughout Athens and can be booked using licensed taxi ranks, hailed on the street or reserved through apps such as FREE NOW. They are particularly useful for late evening events after Metro services have finished or when travelling with luggage or a group.

Reaching OPAP Arena (AEK Athens)

The spectacular OPAP Arena, officially known as the Agia Sofia Stadium, is the modern home of AEK Athens and one of the most impressive football stadiums in Greece. Opened in 2022, it replaced the club’s historic Nikos Goumas Stadium and has quickly become one of the country’s premier sporting venues, regularly hosting domestic league matches, European fixtures and major events.

Located in Nea Filadelfeia, around 8 kilometres north-west of Syntagma Square, the stadium is easiest to reach using public transport. Most visitors travel by Athens Metro Line 1 (Green Line) to Perissos Station before completing the final section by bus or on foot. Several local bus routes also serve the surrounding area, particularly on matchdays when additional services may operate.

If you’re travelling from Athens Airport, the simplest option is to take Metro Line 3 towards the city centre before changing onto Line 1 or a suitable bus connection. Journey times are generally around 60 to 75 minutes, depending on connections.

Visitors arriving by taxi should allow approximately 25 to 40 minutes from central Athens, although traffic can increase significantly before major matches. If you choose to drive, arrive early, as parking around the stadium becomes extremely limited on event days.

It’s worth allowing plenty of time before kick-off to enjoy the atmosphere around the stadium. The surrounding neighbourhood is filled with AEK supporters, cafés and restaurants, while the impressive architecture of the stadium itself makes it well worth arriving early to admire and photograph before entering.

Karaiskakis Stadium (Olympiacos): Best Transport Options

Standing beside the port of Piraeus, Karaiskakis Stadium is the home of Olympiacos FC and one of the easiest major stadiums in Athens to reach by public transport. Its excellent location beside Metro Line 1, the Athens Tram and numerous bus services means visitors can travel here quickly from almost anywhere in the city.

The nearest station is Faliro, located on Metro Line 1 (Green Line). From the station, it’s only a two to three-minute walk to the stadium entrance, making this one of the simplest matchday journeys in Athens. If you’re arriving by ferry into Piraeus Port, the journey is even easier, with Metro Line 1 connecting the port directly to Faliro in just a couple of minutes.

Travellers staying in central Athens can normally reach the stadium from Monastiraki or Omonia in around 15 to 20 minutes, while those travelling from Athens Airport should take Metro Line 3 into the city before changing onto Line 1 for Faliro. The complete journey usually takes around 70 to 80 minutes.

One of the advantages of Karaiskakis Stadium is its location close to the coast. Before or after your visit, you can easily explore the nearby Peace and Friendship Stadium (SEF), stroll along the waterfront or enjoy a meal in Mikrolimano, one of Athens’ most attractive marina districts.

On major matchdays, expect very large crowds around Faliro Station, particularly after full-time. If you’re not in a rush, it can be worth waiting nearby for twenty or thirty minutes before joining the queues, allowing the busiest period to pass while enjoying the lively atmosphere created by Olympiacos supporters.

Visiting the Olympic Stadium (OAKA)

The Olympic Athletic Center of Athens, more commonly known as OAKA, is the largest sporting complex in Greece and one of the country’s most recognisable landmarks. Originally developed for the 2004 Olympic Games, the complex has hosted everything from Olympic athletics, football finals and European championships to world-famous concerts and cultural events.

Today, the main stadium is used for major sporting fixtures and concerts, while the wider complex includes indoor arenas, tennis facilities, swimming pools and training venues. Its striking arched roof, designed by the renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, has become one of modern Athens’ most distinctive architectural features.

Fortunately, OAKA is also one of the easiest venues to reach. The nearest station is Eirini on Metro Line 1 (Green Line). From the station it’s approximately a five to ten-minute walk along clearly signposted pedestrian routes to the stadium entrance. If you’re travelling from Monastiraki, Omonia or Piraeus, simply remain on Line 1 until Eirini without needing to change trains.

Visitors arriving from Athens Airport should take Metro Line 3 towards the city before changing to Line 1 at Monastiraki, giving a total journey time of approximately 55 to 70 minutes depending on connections.

Because the Olympic complex covers a very large area, it’s worth checking which entrance or gate your ticket specifies before travelling. Allowing an additional 15 to 20 minutes to walk from the station to your seat is recommended, particularly for major concerts or international sporting events when security queues can be longer than usual.

Apostolos Nikolaidis Stadium: Travel Guide

Hidden among the residential streets of central Athens, Apostolos Nikolaidis Stadium has been the traditional home of Panathinaikos FC for more than a century. Affectionately known by supporters as Leoforos, it is one of the most historic football grounds in Greece and has hosted countless memorable domestic and European matches since opening in 1922.

Unlike many modern stadiums built on the outskirts of cities, Apostolos Nikolaidis sits in the heart of Athens, creating an atmosphere unlike almost anywhere else in European football. Matchdays see narrow residential streets transformed into a sea of green as supporters make their way towards the ground.

The easiest way to reach the stadium is via Ampelokipi Station on Metro Line 3 (Blue Line). From the station it’s around a 10-minute walk along wide, well-signposted streets to the stadium entrances. If you’re travelling from Athens Airport, you can remain on Metro Line 3 all the way to Ampelokipi without changing trains, making this one of the simplest stadium journeys for international visitors.

From Syntagma Square, the Metro journey takes only a few minutes, while taxis from the city centre usually require around 10 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Although Panathinaikos plans to relocate to a new stadium in Votanikos in the future, Apostolos Nikolaidis remains an iconic venue and an important part of Greek football history. If you have the opportunity to attend a match here while it is still the club’s home, you’ll experience one of the country’s most passionate football atmospheres.

Exploring the Panathenaic Stadium

Unlike the other venues in this guide, the Panathenaic Stadium is not the home of a modern sports club. Instead, it is one of the most important historic sporting venues in the world and an essential stop for anyone interested in the history of the Olympic Games.

Built entirely from white Pentelic marble, the stadium stands on the site of an ancient arena dating back over 2,000 years. It was extensively restored during the nineteenth century to host the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, becoming the only major stadium in the world constructed completely from marble.

Today, visitors can explore the stadium, walk onto the athletics track, climb into the spectator stands and even stand on the winners’ podium. A small museum beneath the seating displays Olympic torches, memorabilia and information about the history of the Games, making this far more than simply a quick photo stop.

Reaching the stadium is straightforward. It lies around a 15 to 20-minute walk from Syntagma Square, while the nearest Metro stations are Syntagma and Evangelismos. Numerous bus routes also stop nearby, and taxis from most parts of central Athens are inexpensive due to the short distance.

Even if you’re not a sports fan, the Panathenaic Stadium is well worth visiting. Its remarkable history, elegant architecture and connection to the Olympic movement make it one of Athens’ most unique attractions and an easy addition to any sightseeing itinerary.

Peace and Friendship Stadium (SEF)

Located beside the waterfront in Faliro, the Peace and Friendship Stadium, commonly known as SEF, is Greece’s premier indoor sporting arena. It serves as the home of Olympiacos Basketball Club and regularly hosts EuroLeague games, international basketball tournaments, volleyball, concerts, exhibitions and other major events throughout the year.

The arena is situated just a short distance from Karaiskakis Stadium, making it easy to combine both venues during the same visit if you’re interested in Greek sport. The surrounding area also provides access to the Athens Riviera, the Flisvos Marina and several waterfront restaurants.

Getting to SEF couldn’t be easier. The nearest station is Faliro on Metro Line 1 (Green Line), from where it’s approximately a five to ten-minute walk to the arena. The Athens Tram also serves nearby stops, providing another convenient option for visitors travelling from the southern suburbs or the Athens Riviera.

If you’re arriving from Piraeus Port, the Metro journey takes only a couple of minutes, while travellers coming from Athens Airport can use Metro Line 3 before changing onto Line 1, with a total journey time of approximately 70 to 80 minutes.

As with other major venues in Athens, it’s advisable to arrive early for high-profile basketball games or concerts. Security checks are thorough, and the area around the arena becomes particularly busy before major events. Allowing extra time also gives you the opportunity to enjoy the waterfront setting before heading inside.

Which Stadium Is Easiest to Reach?

One of the advantages of Athens is that every major stadium is accessible by public transport, but some are certainly easier to reach than others depending on where you’re travelling from.

For most visitors staying in the city centre, Karaiskakis Stadium is arguably the simplest. Located directly beside Faliro Metro Station on Metro Line 1, the walk from the platform to the stadium entrance takes only a couple of minutes. It is also the most convenient venue for passengers arriving by ferry at Piraeus Port, making it an excellent choice if you’re combining island hopping with a football match or concert.

The Panathenaic Stadium is another easy venue to visit because it sits within walking distance of many of Athens’ major attractions. If you’ve already been exploring Syntagma Square, the National Garden or the Temple of Olympian Zeus, you can simply continue on foot without needing to use public transport at all.

Apostolos Nikolaidis Stadium also scores highly thanks to its location on Metro Line 3, which provides a direct connection from Athens International Airport. Meanwhile, OAKA is extremely straightforward to reach once you’re on Metro Line 1, although visitors should remember that the Olympic complex is enormous, so allow extra time to walk from the station to your specific entrance.

The only venue that requires a little more planning is OPAP Arena. Although public transport connections are excellent, the final approach usually involves a short walk or bus connection depending on the route you choose. On matchdays, however, additional transport services and large numbers of supporters make navigation relatively straightforward.

Ultimately, whichever stadium you’re visiting, public transport is almost always the quickest, cheapest and least stressful option, particularly during major sporting events when traffic congestion and parking become significant issues.

From Athens Airport to Every Stadium

If you’re travelling directly from Athens International Airport (ATH) to a match or event, you’ll be pleased to know that every major stadium can be reached using public transport without needing to hire a car.

The easiest journey is to Apostolos Nikolaidis Stadium, as Metro Line 3 runs directly from the airport to Ampelokipi Station without requiring a change. This makes it one of the most convenient venues for international visitors arriving on the day of a match.

For Karaiskakis Stadium, OAKA and the Peace and Friendship Stadium, you’ll normally take Metro Line 3 into central Athens before changing to Metro Line 1. Although this involves one change of train, the stations are well signposted and the journey is straightforward even for first-time visitors.

Travelling to OPAP Arena usually requires Metro Line 3, followed by a change to another Metro line or a local bus, depending on the route you choose. Journey times are generally between 60 and 75 minutes, so it’s wise to allow additional time if you’re travelling on a matchday.

The Panathenaic Stadium can be reached by travelling to Syntagma Station on Metro Line 3, before completing the final 15 to 20-minute walk through central Athens. Many visitors take this opportunity to enjoy some sightseeing along the way, passing several of the city’s most famous landmarks.

If you’re travelling with luggage or arriving late at night, a licensed taxi may be the more convenient option. Although more expensive than the Metro, taxis provide direct door-to-door transport and can save valuable time when travelling as a family or group.

From Piraeus Port to Every Stadium

For many visitors, Piraeus Port is the gateway to Athens after arriving by ferry from the Greek islands. Fortunately, it is also one of the best-connected transport hubs in the country, making it easy to continue your journey to any of the city’s major stadiums.

The closest venue by far is Karaiskakis Stadium, which is only one stop away on Metro Line 1. In fact, many visitors choose to walk if time allows, although taking the Metro is usually the quickest and easiest option.

The nearby Peace and Friendship Stadium (SEF) is equally convenient, lying just a short walk from Faliro Station. If you’re attending a basketball game or concert shortly after arriving by ferry, this is one of the simplest transfers you’ll make anywhere in Athens.

Travelling to OAKA is also straightforward. Simply remain on Metro Line 1 until Eirini Station, where you’ll find clearly signposted walking routes leading into the Olympic complex.

For Apostolos Nikolaidis Stadium, change from Metro Line 1 to Metro Line 3 in the city centre before continuing to Ampelokipi. Visitors heading to the Panathenaic Stadium can travel to Monastiraki or Syntagma before completing the journey on foot.

If you’re planning to travel directly from your ferry to a match, try to avoid the busiest afternoon sailing arrivals whenever possible. Metro trains can become extremely busy immediately after several ferries dock at the same time, so allowing an extra thirty minutes in your schedule is always a sensible precaution.

Matchday and Event Travel Tips

A little preparation can make the difference between a relaxed journey and a stressful one. Athens’ major stadiums regularly attract tens of thousands of spectators, and transport services naturally become much busier in the hours before and after large events.

Whenever possible, aim to arrive at your stadium at least 60 to 90 minutes before kick-off. This allows plenty of time to pass through security, locate your entrance, buy refreshments and enjoy the pre-match atmosphere without feeling rushed. For concerts or major international fixtures, arriving even earlier is often worthwhile.

Before leaving your hotel, double-check which gate or entrance is printed on your ticket. Large venues such as OAKA and OPAP Arena have multiple entrances, and walking between them can take considerably longer than many visitors expect.

Travel light wherever possible. Security checks are standard at every major stadium, and large bags may not be permitted inside. Bringing only the essentials will help you move through the entrance queues more quickly.

Finally, don’t rush straight back to the Metro after the event. Thousands of supporters often leave at exactly the same time, creating long queues outside stations. If you have time, consider stopping for a coffee, drink or meal nearby and letting the crowds disperse. You’ll usually enjoy a much more comfortable journey home while also experiencing the lively post-match atmosphere that makes attending sporting events in Athens so memorable.

Rupert’s Handy Travel Tips

Heading to a sporting event in Athens? Here are a few tips to make your journey easier.

Use the Metro whenever possible. Athens’ Metro is usually the quickest and easiest way to reach the city’s major stadiums, especially on busy matchdays when road traffic can become extremely congested.
Arrive early. Try to get to the stadium at least 60 to 90 minutes before kick-off or the start of a concert. This gives you time for security checks, finding your entrance and enjoying the atmosphere.
Check your gate before you travel. Large venues such as OAKA and OPAP Arena have multiple entrances, and walking between gates can take longer than you expect.
Don’t rush home immediately. Metro stations become extremely busy after major events. If you’re not in a hurry, stop for a drink or meal nearby and let the biggest crowds disperse before travelling.
Keep an Athens transport ticket handy. The same ticket can be used across the Metro, buses and trams, making it easy to combine different forms of public transport during your visit.

Want to meet the reindeer behind our travel tips? Find out more in our page Who is Rupert?.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the easiest stadium to reach in Athens? Karaiskakis Stadium is generally the easiest to reach thanks to its location immediately beside Faliro Metro Station on Metro Line 1. The stadium is only a short walk from the station and is also conveniently located for visitors arriving from Piraeus Port.

Can I reach every Athens stadium by Metro? Yes. Every major stadium in this guide can be reached using the Athens Metro, although some venues require a short walk or a connecting bus after leaving the station.

Which stadium is closest to Athens Airport? Apostolos Nikolaidis Stadium is one of the most convenient because Metro Line 3 runs directly from Athens International Airport to Ampelokipi Station, which is within walking distance of the stadium.

Is it better to drive or use public transport on matchdays? For most visitors, public transport is by far the better option. Roads around the stadiums become extremely busy before and after events, while parking is often difficult to find. The Metro is usually quicker, cheaper and far less stressful.

Can I visit Athens’ stadiums without attending a match? Absolutely. The Panathenaic Stadium welcomes visitors throughout the year and is one of Athens’ most important historic attractions. Depending on the venue and event schedule, stadium tours may also be available at locations such as OPAP Arena, Karaiskakis Stadium and OAKA.

Last Updated

August 2026

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Tagged:Athens Europe - Southeastern Greece Sporting Venues

Rupert

Globetrotter (60+ countries) & Bow-Tie enthusiast. Hotel pillow connoisseur, breakfast buffet enthusiast, and firm believer in the window seat. Loves exploring off the beaten track followed by a decent slice of cake.