Athens has reintroduced its long-standing traffic ring system, known as daktylios, in the city center starting Monday, October 13, 2025. The measure aims to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution, particularly as the capital enters a busier season.
The measure is traditionally suspended mid-July to mid-October, when majority of Athens are on vacation and the traffic is not so heavy.
The restriction applies to a defined zone bordered by major avenues including Alexandras, Michalakopoulou, Syngrou, and Piraeus. Within this inner ring, private cars and light trucks under 2.2 tons are permitted entry on alternate days based on the last digit of their license plate—odd or even numbers.
The traffic ring is in force:
- Monday to Thursday: 07:00 – 20:00
- Friday: 07:00 – 15:00
Restrictions do not apply on weekends, public holidays, or on days of public transport strikes.
Exemptions for residents and green vehicles
Residents living inside the restricted zone are eligible for special permits allowing entry and exit from designated access points.
Certain vehicle categories are also exempt from restrictions, including:
- Fully electric and hybrid cars
- Natural gas and LPG-powered vehicles
- EURO 6 models emitting less than 120g/km CO₂ (NEDC) or 145g/km (WLTP), depending on registration date
Drivers can obtain the necessary electronic permits through gov.gr, Greece’s official digital services portal.
A decades-old measure under review
First introduced over 40 years ago, the daktylios remains one of Athens’s most recognizable traffic-control measures.
However, critics argue that it is outdated and should be adapted to modern urban and environmental needs.
Authorities are reportedly evaluating updates to better align the system with Greece’s green transport goals and the rising use of electric vehicles.
PS one has to note, of course, that they’re hardly any controls on the vehicles within the traffic ring with the effect that one sees both type of licenses on the roads regardless of the day.
