Athens Traffic Ring Returns: What You Need to Know

The Athens Traffic Ring, known as the "Daktylios," resumes today, Monday, October 13, after a suspension since July 18. This measure aims to ease traffic congestion and reduce air pollution in the city center, especially as the new season brings increased traffic.

Traffic Ring Boundaries

The Traffic Ring covers the following streets and avenues:

• Alexandras Ave. – Zacharof – Mesogeion Ave. – Feidippidou – Michalakopoulou – Spyrou Merkouri – Vryaxidos – Ymittou – Iliou Iliou – Amvr. Frantzi – Andreas Syggrou Ave. – Chamosternas – Piraeus – Iera Odos – Konstantinoupoleos Ave. – Achilleos – Karaiskaki Sq. – Karolou – Marni – 28th October (Patission) – Alexandras Ave.

Within these boundaries, only alternating circulation is allowed for private passenger cars and private-use trucks with a maximum laden weight of up to 2.2 tons, based on the last digit of their license plate (odd or even).

Exemptions from the Traffic Ring

Certain vehicles are exempt from these restrictions and can circulate freely within the Traffic Ring. These include vehicles in specific categories and those with special permits issued by the Attica Traffic Police Directorate, as outlined in the Joint Ministerial Decision (FEK 5627, Issue B, 07/10.10.2024).

Eligible vehicle owners can obtain a special permit for unrestricted circulation in the city center, either in paper or digital form via the gov.gr platform. Exempt vehicles include:

• Fully electric vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles, as well as those powered by natural gas or LPG.
• EURO 6 vehicles (excluding the above technologies) emitting less than 120g/km of CO2 (combined cycle, per the New European Driving Cycle/NEDC), first registered in an EU member state by December 31, 2020.
• EURO 6 vehicles (excluding the above technologies) emitting less than 145g/km of CO2 (combined cycle, per the Worldwide Light Test Procedure/WLTP), first registered in an EU member state from January 1, 2021, onward.

Provisions for Permanent Residents

Permanent residents within the Traffic Ring area are granted special entry-exit zones and can obtain a dedicated card from the relevant Athens Municipality services.

Operating Days and Hours

The Traffic Ring restrictions apply as follows:

• Monday to Thursday: 07:00 to 20:00
• Friday: 07:00 to 15:00

The measures do not apply on Saturdays, Sundays, official holidays, or days when public transport workers are on strike.

Is the Traffic Ring Still Relevant?

After 40 years of implementation, the Traffic Ring remains a contentious measure. While it aims to alleviate congestion and pollution, debates continue over whether it is an outdated solution or a necessary tool for managing Athens’ busy streets. Authorities are urged to reassess its effectiveness and explore modern alternatives to improve urban mobility.

For more details on permits and exemptions, visit gov.gr or contact the Attica Traffic Police Directorate.