Athens 'Daktylios' traffic zone: Until when it will be in effect - Which vehicles circulate freely

The "Daktylios" traffic restriction zone in central Athens will remain in effect until July 24, 2026, according to official information from gov.gr. This measure limits vehicle access to the city center during specific hours on weekdays.

The current period of restrictions began on October 20, 2025, and will conclude on the aforementioned date. Unless a new ministerial decision is issued, the restrictions will be suspended afterward. The measure is not in place throughout the entire day, with specific operating hours: Monday to Thursday from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and Friday from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. The "Daktylios" does not apply on Saturdays and Sundays.

Exemptions are granted to vehicles that meet certain criteria and are issued a special circulation permit. These include electric vehicles, those running on natural gas or LPG by design, hybrid vehicles, and Euro 6 vehicles. However, for Euro 6 vehicles, simply meeting the emissions standard is not enough; they must also emit below specified CO2 limits, which vary based on their registration date.

This initiative aims to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality in the heart of Athens. The specific exemptions encourage the use of more environmentally friendly vehicles, aligning with broader efforts to promote sustainable transportation in urban areas.