How to get to the congress center

There is a metro station next to the Megaron (called Megaro Moussikis) leading you right into the city centre in one direction (6 minutes) and to the El. Venizelos International Airport in the other direction (35 minutes). 

Maps, timetables, fares and route planning are available in English on the Athens Public Transport website: https://www.athenstransport.com/english/

Next to Megaron there is a big car park available and many taxis, trams and buses just outside the centre.

Parking

Parking is available in Megaron with a total of 750 parking spaces

About Athens

Athens, one of the world’s oldest cities, boasts a history as rich and dynamic as any major European capital. Its dates back over 3,000 years, with its golden age occurring during the 5th century BC—the Classical period—when the city flourished as the cradle of democracy, philosophy, and the arts. During this era, Athens witnessed the construction of iconic landmarks such as the Parthenon, the Acropolis, and the Agora, which remain symbols of ancient Greek civilization to this day.

Over the centuries, Athens experienced numerous changes in rule, including Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and finally modern Greek sovereignty. After gaining independence from Ottoman rule in the 19th century, Athens was designated the capital of the newly established Greek state in 1834, setting it on a path of rapid urban and cultural development.
The city underwent significant modernization throughout the 20th century, evolving into a vibrant metropolis and a major economic, political, and cultural hub of Southeast Europe. Despite challenges such as wars and economic crises, Athens has retained its unique blend of ancient heritage and contemporary dynamism.

Today, Athens stands as a cosmopolitan city renowned for its archaeological treasures, Mediterranean lifestyle, and growing role as a center for business, education, and tourism. It attracts millions of visitors annually, eager to explore its historical sites and vibrant neighborhoods.

“When the Athenians were told that the city was to be destroyed, they replied: ‘Then we shall rebuild it more beautifully.’”
— Pericles

Facts and Figures

• Population: Approximately 3.1 million inhabitants (and around 5 million tourists annually)
• Area: 412 square kilometers
• GPS Coordinates: 37°58′N, 23°43′E
• Language: Greek
• Time Zone: Eastern European Time (EET) = GMT/UTC +2 (UTC +3 during daylight saving)
• Currency and Banking
  The official currency is the Euro (€). Banknotes range from €5 to €500, and coins from 1 cent to €2. Most establishments accept credit cards and electronic payments, with Euros widely used throughout the city.
• Climate: Athens enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
• Average March temperature: 13ºC (55ºF)
• Average March high: 17ºC (63ºF)
• Average March low: 8ºC (46ºF)
• Electricity
  Electricity in Greece operates at 230 volts, 50 Hz AC. Power outlets use the standard European two-round-pin plugs. Visitors from the UK, Ireland, or the US should bring appropriate plug adapters.

Insurance

The registration fees do not include the insurance of participants against personal accidents, sickness, cancellations by any party, theft, loss or damage to personal possessions. Participants are recommended to take out adequate personal insurance to cover travel, accommodation, cancellation but also theft and loss of personal belongings.

Safety

Athens is generally a safe city for both visitors and residents. According to the latest Global Peace Index (GPI), Greece ranks among the safer countries in the region. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas, busy public transport, and popular landmarks. Visitors are advised to stay vigilant, keep personal belongings secure, and exercise usual caution.

Taxi drivers in Athens are required by law to always use a taximeter and issue a receipt at the end of the journey. Taxi scams have been reported occasionally, so it is recommended to use official taxi services or call reputable radio-operated taxi companies. Always confirm the fare before starting your journey.

Public Transportation

Athens boasts an extensive and efficient public transportation network, including metro, buses, trams, and suburban rail. Tickets are valid across all these modes and can be purchased at metro stations, kiosks, or via mobile apps. Be sure to validate your ticket upon boarding, as inspections are frequent and fines for unvalidated tickets apply.

Getting to Athens

By Air

Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos” is a major gateway to Greece and Southeastern Europe. It serves over 50 airlines, connecting the city to more than 120 destinations worldwide. Located about 20 kilometers east of the city center, the airport is well connected by metro, bus, and taxi services. Flight times from major European cities rarely exceed 3 hours.

By Train

Athens is served by the Larissa Train Station (Stathmos Larissis), which handles domestic and some international routes. The station is linked to the metro network (Line 2) providing easy access to the city center and other parts of Athens.

By Car

Athens is accessible by highway from all directions:

• From the North – via Motorway A1 (E75)
• From the South – via Motorway A8 (E94)
• From the West – via Motorway A8 (E94)
• From the East – via coastal roads and Motorway A6 (Attiki Odos)

Getting from the Airport to the Congress Venue

The Megaron Athens International Conference Centre (MAICC) is conveniently located in the heart of Athens, near the city’s historic center and easily accessible by public transportation.

From the Airport

Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos” is approximately 33 kilometers from the MAICC. A taxi ride from the airport to the conference center typically takes 35–45 minutes. Official taxis are available outside the arrivals area.

For public transport, take the Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) from the airport towards the city center. Disembark at the “Syntagma” station, which is about a 10-minute walk from the Megaron. Tickets can be purchased at automatic machines in the metro station or at the airport and are valid for 90 minutes across metro, bus, and tram networks. Remember to validate your ticket upon entering.

Alternatively, you can take the X95 express bus service from the airport directly to Syntagma Square, near the Megaron. The bus operates 24/7 with a journey time of about 45–60 minutes. Tickets cost €6 and can be purchased on the bus or at the airport.

From the City Centre

The MAICC is easily reachable by foot or public transport from central Athens. From Syntagma metro station (Lines 2 and 3), it is approximately a 10-minute walk. Alternatively, several bus lines serve stops close to the venue.

Useful Links:

• Athens Public Transport: https://www.athenstransport.com
• Athens International Airport: https://www.aia.gr

Getting around Athens for free

Thanks to a generous support of the City of Athens all the registered participants will be able to use the public transportation for free.
Please collect your travel card at the Registration desk.