Transportation
One of the great aspects of Athens is that it is maybe one of the most handicap-accessible major European cities. The city features a number of public transportation options that are all accessible to people with physical impairments.
Arriving and Departing
Arriving and departing in Athens is an easy effort with just a little planning. The city offers 3 major entry/jump points. The first is Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH). The airport sits 23 miles southeast of the city center. For those looking to be more budget-friendly, the Athens metro line 3 is connected to the airport and there are also Bus options available. Some of the major hotels do offer their own transportation. If your hotel does not offer its own transportation, your hotel staff with gladly help book your private transportation. Generally, private transportation will range from 35-50 euros from the airport to the city center.
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Athens's other two major arrival and departure spots are the ports of Piraeus and Rafina. Piraeus is the largest port offering the most destinations to the Greek Islands. The port is accessible from the city center by metro (2-3 euros), bus line (4 euros), or taxi/private transfers (about 25 euros). The Port itself offers a free internal bus shuttle between terminals. There are also air-conditioned facilities with restrooms at the terminals.
The port of Rafina is the second largest port in the Athens Metro area. The port offers fewer destination options than Piraeus. However, that does not mean your interested destination may not be accessible here. What is attractive about Rafina is the port is much smaller, making it more manageable for first-time travelers to the area. Another benefit is it is located closer to Athens International Airport which can save some time for those looking to go directly to the port from the airport. Athens public bus network (KTEL) runs to Rafina from the city center and airport. Your second option will be to use a taxi. Unforetunelty, Athen's metro line does not go to Rafina.
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MS Recommendations
If you are looking to be budget friendly and are in good physical condition, the Metro Lines and Bus Lines are good options to consider. For those whose physical capabilities may be affected by more activity, arranging a private transfer is your best option. Thinking about how your body will respond to a long flight or ferry ride is important. A private transfer will provide the convenience of saving you time and energy. It will eliminate both walking with luggage, and waiting times under a relentless Agean sun. If you are looking to be budget-friendly, but do fall into the category of physical restraint, my recommendation is to pay the extra money for the private transfers. Saving time and more importantly, your energy can go a long way to having peace of mind during your vacation.
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Athens International Airport is a modern airport offering services to people with reduced mobilities. Handicap ramps, walkways and elevators can be accessed throughout the airport. The airport can provide you assistance through their special needs services at no extra charge. Their "Special Needs" services link is down below in my resource section.
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Another important thing to consider is Athens Public transportation is handicap accessible. Metro stations should feature elevators and all public buses feature ramps that can be used for wheel chair passengers. A good resource is the OASA Information for Disabled Persons. The organization features vehicles that can be booked for the most physically restricted people. They also feature a helpline and information to help you with Athens Public transport systems!
City Transportation and Seeing the Sites
Walking combined with the use of metro lines or taxis will be the easiest way to move about the city to see the major sites. Americans can be surprised about the amount of walking that is needed when visiting a European city. European nations' infrastructure is built in cities that are much older than ours. Walking will be a major aspect no matter where you are in Greece so you need to be prepared. Another thing that must be considered is the city of Athens features hilly neighborhoods with cobblestone streets. How will your body respond to a lot of walking up and down hills while under the Agean Sun?
MS Recommendations
Good quality walking shoes are a must when visiting Greece. If you plan of using sandals, I recommend sandals that can wrap around your ankles. Flip-flops are not recommended for Athens. Don't bother packing high heels or platforms. Trust me!
For me, the hardest aspect of Athens was walking around the city during midday. The sun is relentless this time of day. Combined with a lot of walking up and down hills, I could feel my symptoms coming on fast. Moving around early morning and later afternoon to the sites will help eliminate peak temperature hours. I strongly recommend having a partner with you along the way. Having someone to help walk will go a long way if your symptoms start to increase. Being well-hydrated is critical. For those whose needs may fall under more restroom breaks, there are some public restrooms. However, they are very limited. Using a catheter is recommended prior to leaving your hotel. Generally, shops will allow you to use their restrooms, but some do insist on you being a paying customer.