Mass Exodus from Athens for the 3-Day Weekend: 36,000 Cars Leave Through City Gates

A significant exodus of Athenians is underway as thousands leave the city to enjoy a short break over the March 25th weekend in 2025. From 6:00 AM on Saturday (March 22, 2025) until 6:00 PM, at least 36,000 vehicles passed through the Eleusis gates alone, with residents heading out to enjoy nature during this long holiday. According to ERT, from Friday morning through Saturday noon, a total of 113,819 cars departed via Lamia and Corinth highways. Despite a 10% decrease compared to last year due to fewer people extending their weekends, authorities have set up roadblocks to ensure smooth traffic flow. Popular destinations include Aegina and other Saronic islands, while international cities like Rome, Barcelona, and Paris are also favored by some travelers.