Navigating Night Services: Athens' 24-Hour Bus Network

Stay connected when the city sleeps—comprehensive guide to Athens’ night buses.

While most Athenians rest, the night bus network keeps the city pulsating. Whether you’re a late-shift worker, a night owl exploring the Plaka, or catching an early flight, Athens’ nocturnal transport lines have you covered. In this guide, we uncover:

1. Overview of key night routes
2. Schedules and frequencies
3. Safety & amenities
4. Ticketing after hours
5. Tips for a smooth ride

🌙 1. Night Lines Overview

Athens currently features five main night bus lines, collectively known as the “OWL” network. Key routes include:

• 040 Night Owl: Syntagma ↔ Peristeri via Attiki Square
• 041 Coastal Owl: Syntagma ↔ Glyfada (coast)
• 050 Suburb Owl: Syntagma ↔ Ano Liosia
• 060 Hill Owl: Panepistimiou ↔ Lycabettus Base
• 070 University Owl: Zografou ↔ Goudi Loop

These lines operate daily between 00:30 and 05:00, ensuring city-wide coverage when the Metro sleeps.

⏰ 2. Schedules & Frequencies

• Peak Window (00:30–02:00): 30-minute intervals on core routes
• Late Window (02:00–04:00): 45–60 minute intervals
• Final Runs (04:00–05:00): Last calls for early commuters

Although less frequent than daytime buses, the OWL network lets you traverse from Exarchia to Paleo Faliro without a hitch.

🚏 3. Safety & Amenities

• Well-Lit Stops: Enhanced lighting and CCTV at key shelters
• Onboard Comfort: Bright interiors, emergency intercoms, and priority seating
• Trained Staff: Drivers trained in late-night passenger assistance

Safety Tips:

1. Scan QR code for live bus tracking.
2. Share your route with a friend via the app.
3. Stick to well-populated stops when possible.

🎟️ 4. Ticketing & Fares After Hours

Night buses accept the same ATH.ENA cards—no extra fees. Important notes:

• Single 90-minute ticket valid for all night lines.
• 24-hr and multi-day passes work seamlessly.
• Machines at Syntagma Metro active until the last train departs.

Tip: Purchase your ticket before midnight to avoid downtime at smaller stops.

💡 5. Tips for a Smooth Night Ride

• Plan Ahead: Use the app’s “Night Mode” for route maps optimized for dark screens.
• Group Rides: Traveling with friends? Share a 24-hr pass sequentially.
• Service Alerts: Subscribe to night-bus alerts for detours during events.

In Summary

Athens’ night buses keep the city alive after dark. By mastering the OWL network, you’ll never miss a ride—even when the rest of the city sleeps.