Athens Metro 1

M1 connects Piraeus with Monastiraki, Omonia, and Kifisia in northern Athens. It runs from the port through the historic center and then follows a mostly open-air railway corridor through the northern suburbs.

The line opened as a steam railway between Athens and Piraeus in 1869, was electrified in 1904, and reached Kifisia in 1957. That history explains why M1 feels more like an urban railway than the deep-level M2 and M3.

A normal ride costs €1.20. Visa and Mastercard bank cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay can be tapped at the gates, or an Ath.ena Ticket can be used. Tap the same card or device when entering and leaving so the fare and daily cap are calculated correctly.

M1 uses older six-car electric trains and has more wheel noise, open-air heat, and inconsistent climate control than the newer lines. Trains can be crowded between Piraeus, Monastiraki, and Omonia, especially around commuter periods and ferry departures.

STASY lists elevator access at every M1 station, but lift outages can break a step-free route. Check the live accessibility status when wheelchair access is essential. At Piraeus, leave time for the walk or port shuttle to the correct ferry gate, and keep bags closed in crowded central trains.