Taxis in Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki has plenty of taxis offering fast, comfortable transfers across the city. They are dark blue with a rooftop "TAXI" sign, lit when the cab is free and off when it is taken. As the city is compact, most rides are affordable, though times and fares rise during rush-hour traffic.
Thessaloniki Taxi Fares
Fares are metered, set by the regional tariff and based on distance and time. A higher night tariff applies between 00:00 and 05:00, and there are small standard surcharges, for example for airport or port pick-ups and for larger luggage. Make sure the meter is on at the start of the trip. If you want a guaranteed price, agree it in advance or pre-book.
Not every taxi accepts cards, so carry some cash and confirm card payment with the driver before you set off.
How to Catch a Taxi in Thessaloniki
- Hailing from the street: raise your hand when a free taxi approaches.
- Taxi ranks: found across the city; take the first cab in line.
- Radio taxi: many companies take phone or SMS bookings.
- Taxi apps: a reliable and increasingly popular option.
Taxis to Thessaloniki Airport
Public transport to SKG is by bus (including Line 2X, which connects to the metro at Nea Elvetia), so a taxi is often the easiest choice. The ride from the centre to the airport takes about 30 minutes, on the meter, with the higher tariff at night.
Useful Tips for Using Taxis
- Write your destination down clearly to avoid any mix-up.
- Use your phone to follow the route on a map.
- Make sure the meter is reset and running at the start.
- Ask for a receipt at the end of the ride.
- Check the licence number displayed inside the cab.
- Use only official taxis from ranks or by hailing; avoid unlicensed touts.
- Tipping is optional, but rounding up is common.
- Carry some small cash in case cards are not accepted.
- You can pre-book online for added security and a record of the trip.
