Taxi travel in some cities around the world can be a luxury, according to Deutsche Bank’s annual report “Mapping the World’s Prices 2025”, which recorded the average cost of a five-kilometer journey, comparing traditional taxis and services through applications in dozens of metropolises.
Based on the research, Zurich, Switzerland, tops the list, where a 5-kilometer journey costs $27.30 (about 25.50 euros). Paris and Luxembourg follow with $26.50 and $26 respectively, while Geneva ($25.10), London ($23.10), Milan, Brussels, Amsterdam, Munich and Copenhagen are at the same level, all with costs ranging from $20 to $22.
On the other hand, the most affordable cities to hail a taxi are Cairo, Egypt, with just $1.90, and the major Indian metropolises of Delhi ($2), Mumbai ($2.10), and Bangalore ($2.90). Taxis in Manila, Philippines ($2.30), and Jakarta, Indonesia ($2.40) are also considered cheap.
Prague stands out as the cheapest European capital with $10.50 for a short trip, while in Canada prices remain in the middle range, with Toronto and Vancouver costing around $11. In contrast, in New York, the same distance costs $15.80, placing the city in 20th place on the list of the most expensive.
That said, the survey confirms what every traveler suspects: Taxis may be the most convenient way to get around, but depending on the city’s courier, they can cost as much as a nice dinner.
Top 5 – The most expensive cities for taxis (5 km)
Zurich – $27.30
Paris – $26.50
Luxembourg – $26
Geneva – $25.10
London – $23.10
And the most economical
Cairo – $1.90
Delhi – $2
Mumbai – $2.10
Manila – $2.30
Jakarta – $2.40
At this point, it should be emphasized that the data concern average local fares and have been calculated in US dollars, at October 2025 exchange rates.
In the meantime, it is interesting to see what is true in our country, always with the reservation that we are conveying our personal experience with this mode of transportation.
What applies in urban areas
In Athens – and in large urban centers in general – the basic elements are as follows:
- The charge has two main parts: the fixed opening of the taximeter (the “start”) and the charge per kilometer.
- For example, according to an informative guide for taxis in Greece: day: approximately €0.90/km within the city, night time: €1.25/km within the city.
- There is a minimum charge – that is, even if the distance is short, you will pay a minimum amount.
- From Athens airport to the center there are “fixed” charges: during the day €40, night time €55 (all charges included).
Where are there any particularities – and what to look out for
- On the islands – especially where the taxi supply is limited – prices may be predetermined or negotiable and often higher due to demand, especially during peak periods.
- Charges may increase for luggage, larger vehicles or trips outside the city.
- For taxis within the city – short distances – prices are relatively predictable, e.g. €5-8 for a short trip within Athens (as reported by a guide).
In any case, Greece seems to be moving towards the middle or even “cheaper” category for taxis compared to very expensive European cities (such as Paris, Zurich). However, the fact that the price from Athens airport to the city center is €40 shows that there are “fixed high” charges for specific routes, but at the same time, charges within the city do not seem to have “shot up” like in some other metropolises.
