Greek police have arrested a taxi driver accused of grossly overcharging passengers for a trip from Athens International Airport to central Athens.

The 21-year-old driver allegedly collected 175 euros for the journey, a sum that exceeded the legal fare by more than four times, according to the Hellenic Police. Officers from the Attica Traffic Police division’s road accident prevention unit made the arrest.

The incident took place in the morning hours of Friday, July 3. A case file was opened against the driver by the Athens Traffic Police sub-directorate for charging a fare higher than permitted, and he was taken before the relevant prosecutor for further action.

Greek law requires taxi drivers to issue a receipt for any transport fare collected.

What travelers should know

Official taxis wait around the clock at the designated taxi area outside Exit 3 on the Arrivals level of Athens International Airport. Fixed fares apply between the airport and the Athens city center inner ring: 40 euros during the day (05:00 to 24:00) and 55 euros overnight (00:00 to 05:00), in both directions. The charge is set by the time you reach your destination and covers all applicable surcharges.

Always ask for a receipt. To report a problem, travelers can contact the airport traffic police at +30 210 3536899 or the Tourist Police at 1571.