The ban on entry into the center of Athens returns

From October 16, the ban on free entry into the city center, which was lifted on July 20 for the summer period, returns in Athens. As in previous years, a system of limited vehicle entry will be introduced within the center of Athens.

The restrictions, which go into effect each fall and are lifted in mid-July, are intended to reduce traffic downtown. The territory in which the restriction applies is indicated by a blue rectangular sign, in the center of which, on a yellow background with a red border, there is the Greek letter “D” (δακτύλιος – dactylos). The restriction is valid from Monday to Thursday from 8 am to 6 pm hours, on Friday from 8 am to 15:00 And not valid on weekends and holidays.

This limitation does not apply to tourists who use rented cars. The restriction was introduced in order to reduce the environmental and transport load on the center of the metropolis. Local residents of the areas covered by the ring can obtain a special card from the Athens municipality or from citizen service centers (KEP), which will allow them to travel by personal vehicle in the city center.

The ring of the center of Athens runs along the roads of Alexandras, Zacharov, Mesogion, Filippidou, Michalokopoulou, Sptrou Merkouri, Vriaxidos, Imittou, Ilia Iliou, Frantzi, Singru, Chamosternas, Piraeos, Iera Odos, Konstantinoupoleos, Achilleos, Karaiskaki, Karolou, Marni and Patision. For failure to comply with this restriction, the driver faces a fine of 200 euros.

Restrictions does not apply to low emission vehicles. At the same time, owners of electric, gas, autogas and hybrid cars, as well as diesel cars of Euro 6 standard, emitting no more than 120 g/km of carbon dioxide, must apply for a special permit on the website daktylios.gov.gr.

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