Athens traffic ring restrictions to return this autumn

The Athens traffic ring system is set to return following its summer hiatus. The exact start date for the 2026-2027 period will be finalized shortly via a joint ministerial decision.

The Small Ring is defined by a specific perimeter of central avenues and streets. Within this zone, vehicles that do not meet certain environmental requirements are prohibited from entering during active hours. Exceptions are granted to electric, hybrid, and specific natural gas/LPG vehicles, as well as permanent residents of the city center who can obtain digital permits through the gov.gr platform using TAXISnet credentials.

A Large Ring also exists, which covers a broader portion of the Athens urban area. This larger zone is activated less frequently, typically only when pollution levels exceed specific thresholds as determined by the Minister of Environment, Energy, and Climate Change. When the Large Ring is active, traffic restrictions for private passenger and freight vehicles are applied based on the final digit of the vehicle's license plate number.