Athens Metro 3

M3 connects Dimotiko Theatro and central Piraeus with Monastiraki, Syntagma, the northeastern suburbs, and Athens International Airport. It is the blue east-west line across central Athens, but only selected trains continue beyond Doukissis Plakentias to the airport.

The first M3 section opened in 2000 between Syntagma and Ethniki Amyna. Airport service began in 2004 over the suburban railway tracks. Western extensions reached Nikaia in 2020 and Dimotiko Theatro in 2022, replacing the old Agia Marina terminus shown in stale route data.

Urban rides cost €1.20 and airport rides cost €9. Visa and Mastercard bank cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay can be tapped directly at the gates for either fare. Use the same card or device at entry and exit, and check the train display for Airport before boarding.

M3 uses a mixed fleet of six-car trains. Airport services require dual-voltage trains equipped for the mainline railway. Some first-generation urban trains still lack air-conditioning, while later stock has climate control, so summer comfort varies by departure.

M3 stations have elevators and step-free routes, but a lift outage can force a different entrance or station. The airport platforms and central interchanges can be crowded with luggage. Keep bags secured around Syntagma and Monastiraki, and allow extra time for the separate walk from Piraeus station to a ferry gate.