On Saturday, July 5th, the pilot 24-hour transportation service for metro lines, trams, and selected bus routes officially commenced in Athens. The Greek government announced this trial initiative via X (formerly Twitter), aiming to enhance safe nighttime mobility in the capital city.
For the first time ever, metro lines 2 and 3, tram lines T6 and T7, and nine additional bus routes will operate around the clock on a trial basis. This initiative is implemented by the Athens Urban Transport Organization (OASA) as part of an effort to expand permanent 24-hour and night services.
The government’s announcement emphasized that the new measure ensures citizens can return home safely after enjoying Saturday nightlife in the city center. The post read: “Tomorrow is Saturday, July 5th. You know it. On Saturdays, you want to go out. And now, you can return home safely using public transport.”
**Detailed Operational Schedule:** From Saturday, July 5 (10:00 PM) to Sunday, July 6 (10:00 AM):
– **Metro Line 2 (Anthoupoli – Elliniko):** Frequency varies from 10 minutes 50 seconds during peak times to 15 minutes overnight.
– **Metro Line 3 (Plakentia ↔ Dimotiko Theatro Piraeus & towards Airport):** Frequencies range between 9 and 36 minutes depending on direction and time.
– **Tram Lines T6 and T7:** Regular intervals between 15 and 25 minutes throughout the night and early morning.
– **Pilot Bus Routes:** 164, 221, 608, 703, 842, 049, A15, B11, B12 will run 24 hours exclusively for this test period.
In addition, existing permanent 24-hour lines (040, 11, X93, X95, X96, X97) and night routes (400, 500, 790, X14) remain operational to ensure seamless connectivity across the city.
This pilot program marks a significant step toward improving urban mobility and safety in Athens, offering residents and visitors extended access to reliable public transportation.