A 40-year-old taxi driver was arrested in Athens for demanding over double the usual fare from tourists for a trip from the Acropolis area to Piraeus. According to Greek authorities, the driver was detained by traffic police after requesting 45 euros for a route that typically costs around 20 euros. Further checks revealed that the taxi meter was not engaged during the journey, violating public transport rules.

The case has reignited discussions in Greece about unfair practices against tourists, especially at the onset of the busy summer season when millions of visitors arrive. In Athens, taxi services operate under officially set state tariffs: an initial charge of about 1.80 euros, a daytime rate of approximately 0.90 euros per kilometer, and a nighttime rate of around 1.25 euros per kilometer. Additional charges apply for airport, port, luggage, and phone call fees.

For a route like from Monastiraki or the Acropolis area to Piraeus, the standard price usually varies between 18 and 25 euros, depending on traffic and the exact destination. This makes the 45-euro charge a significant overcharge. Greek authorities reminded tourists to always request the meter be engaged and to ask for a receipt, and to report any suspected fraud to the police or tourist services.