ATHENS, Greece — Tens of thousands of passengers used Athens’ metro and tram overnight during the debut of the city’s new 24-hour Saturday service. Many left their cars at home, enjoyed a night out, and returned safely using public transport.
At Syntagma station shortly before 2 a.m., long lines formed at ticket counters, validation machines and stairways as Metro Lines 2 and 3 operated continuously for the first time. The pilot program, tested earlier in July, was met with strong public support and has now been made permanent.
Urban Rail Transport (STASY) CEO said at least 250 staff worked the night shift, including drivers, station managers, and crowd control teams, especially due to large events like concerts.
A total of 55,181 passengers used metro or tram services during the night. Deputy Transport Minister Konstantinos Kyranakis boarded a train and spoke with riders, later stating that the initiative could help save lives by offering a safe alternative to nighttime driving.
The 24-hour Saturday service now includes Metro Lines 2 and 3, Tram Lines T6 and T7, and selected bus routes covering key areas across the Athens metropolitan region.
