Thessaloniki Taxis

Taxis in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki has plenty of taxi vehicles circulating throughout the city, offering fast, reliable, and comfortable transfers. Thessaloniki taxis are dark blue with a rooftop “TAXI” sign. When the sign is lit, the taxi is available; when it’s off, the taxi is occupied. Because Thessaloniki is relatively compact, rides are generally affordable — though travel times (and thus costs) increase significantly during rush-hour congestion.

Thessaloniki Taxi Fares

Taxi fares in Thessaloniki are metered. The price is calculated based on distance and duration:

Initial fee: 1.80€ / 1.80$
Cost per km (daytime): 0.90€ / 0.90$
Cost per km (nighttime 00:00–05:00): 1.25€ / 1.25$
20 minutes waiting time: 15€ / 15$
Luggage over 10kg: 0.40€ / 0.40$ each

Exception: Rides from Thessaloniki Airport to the city center have fixed fares:

Daytime (05:00–00:00): 24€ / 24$
Nighttime (00:00–05:00): 32€ / 32$

Payments can be made in cash or card — however, POS terminals are not mandatory for taxi drivers in Greece. Always confirm card payment availability before the ride.

How to Catch a Taxi in Thessaloniki

You can easily find a taxi anywhere in the city:

Hailing from the street: Stand at the roadside and raise your hand when a free taxi approaches.
Using taxi ranks: Located throughout the city; always take the first taxi in line.
Calling a radio taxi: Numerous companies accept phone or SMS bookings.
Booking via taxi apps: A reliable and increasingly popular option.

Thessaloniki Taxis to Thessaloniki Airport

Since public transportation to SKG Airport is limited to buses, taxis are often the most convenient choice. Rides from downtown Thessaloniki to the airport take about 30 minutes and cost:

24€ / 24$ (daytime)
32€ / 32$ (nighttime)

Useful Tips for Using Taxis in Thessaloniki

Write down your destination clearly to avoid communication issues.
Know the approximate fare beforehand and let the driver know you’re informed.
Use your phone to track the suggested route on maps.
Ensure the taximeter is reset and turned on at the start of the trip.
Ask for a receipt at the end of the ride.
Check the official license number displayed inside the cab.
Only use official taxis from stands or by hailing — avoid unlicensed individuals.
Tipping is optional, but rounding up is common.
Carry small cash in case the taxi doesn’t accept cards.
You can pre-book taxis online for added security and documentation.

FAQ

How do you hail a taxi in Thessaloniki?

You can easily catch a taxi in the street, simply by raising your hand. However, you should take your cab from the official taxi ranks or book it online to be sure that it is licensed and avoid getting scammed.

Are taxis in Thessaloniki safe?

Thessaloniki taxis are considered a rather safe option for your transfer throughout the city. In any case, the cabs queuing up at the official taxi stands are undoubtedly licensed and legal. Hence, you should always catch your cab from the taxi ranks. Another safe alternative is to book your taxi ride online.

How expensive are taxis in Athens?

Athens taxis are definitely not the most affordable transportation method. They may even be the costlier ones. Nevertheless, they are considered relatively cheap, at least in comparison to many other European countries.