Athens Airport (ATH)

The Athens Metro Blue Line (Line 3) runs directly to and from the airport, connecting you to Syntagma Square and Monastiraki in central Athens. Trains run every 30 minutes and the journey takes around 40 minutes. 

Four express bus routes run from outside the arrivals area: X95 to Syntagma Square, X96 to Piraeus port, X93 to Kifissos bus station, and X97 to Elliniko. They’re a proper budget-friendly way to get around. 

Athens Airport offers short-term and long-term parking lots. A free shuttle bus runs between the long-term lot and the terminal. 

Athens Airport has a single main terminal building, so there’s no need for terminal transfers. All gates are accessible on foot once you’ve cleared security. 

The Proastiakos suburban railway also serves the airport station, with connections to Piraeus port and the northern suburbs. 

Taxis queue at Arrivals Exit 3, with flat fares to central Athens of €40 during the day and €55 at night. Uber pick-up is available at Exit 4. 

Six major car rental companies have desks on the arrivals level. Talk to your Travel Expert about organising car hire for your trip or book it yourself online before you leave. 

A large number of airlines fly into and out of Athens Airport, including Aegean Airlines, British Airways, Lufthansa, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air and many more. With around 68 airlines serving over 150 destinations, ATH is one of the best-connected airports in Southern Europe. 

As a general rule, you should aim to arrive at Athens Airport at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights. During peak summer season, the airport can get seriously busy, so building in extra time is a smart call. Check with the airport, airline or your Travel Expert directly for more information on recommended arrival times. 

There are plenty of transport options available from Athens Airport, including the Metro Blue Line to Syntagma Square, the Proastiakos suburban railway, four express bus routes, taxis with flat fares, Uber, and car rental. The Metro is one of the quickest and most popular options, reaching central Athens in around 40 minutes. 

Yes, Athens Airport has several lounges in both the Schengen and Non-Schengen departure areas, including Goldair Handling Lounges, Aegean Business Lounges, the Swissport Lounge and the Lufthansa Business Lounge. Amenities typically include food, drinks, Wi-Fi and comfortable seating. Access may be possible depending on your ticket class, frequent flyer membership, lounge membership or by purchasing a day pass. Check with the airline directly or talk to your Travel Expert for more information. 

While there are no hotels within the terminal itself, several of the airport lounges – particularly the Goldair Handling Lounges which are open 24 hours – provide comfortable rest areas. There are also hotels located close to the airport. If you’ve got a longer layover, the Metro into Athens makes it easy to explore the city – the Acropolis isn’t going anywhere, but you might as well tick it off the list. 

You may be able to earn loyalty points or rewards on eligible flights to or from Athens Airport booked with us. When booking online, you’ll see a place to add your loyalty program or frequent flyer membership details if this is available, or you can ask your Travel Expert for help when booking in-store. If the booking meets your program’s requirements, you’ll earn points! For more information, check with your specific loyalty program and see our Booking Terms and Conditions. Keen for even more travel perks? Subscribe to our email list for birthday surprises, competition entries, exclusive deals and VIP pre-sale access to the hottest holiday savings around. 

Check-in times and baggage rules for flights departing from Athens Airport will vary depending on your ticket, so make sure you confirm with your airline in advance. Remember, it’s often possible to check in online or via your airline’s app, which can help save time at the airport. For more information or help finding your check-in times and baggage limits, talk to your Travel Expert. 

Athens Airport has a single main terminal building, so you won’t need to worry about choosing the right one. The departures area is divided into Schengen and Non-Schengen zones depending on your destination – just follow the signage after check-in and security. 

Yes, Athens Airport offers both short-term and long-term parking. A free shuttle bus runs between the long-term lot and the terminal. Rates vary by duration – check the airport’s website for the latest pricing. 

Athens Airport offers baby and parent rooms equipped for feeding and changing in both the departures and arrivals areas. Family restrooms are also available throughout the terminal. A climate-controlled animal care pet relief area is located post-security near Gate A15. 

Keen to pick up some Greek olive oil, ouzo or a last-minute souvenir? You’ll find a wide range of duty-free shops, retail stores and dining options across both the Schengen and Non-Schengen departure areas at Athens Airport. Check the airport’s website for an up-to-date directory of stores and their opening information. 

While last-minute sale fares to and from Athens Airport may become available, you’ll generally find it pays to plan ahead, especially if you’re booking international flights. As a rough guide, we recommend booking domestic flights three to six months in advance and international flights six to nine months before you plan to fly. When it comes to balancing flexible travel dates with the biggest savings, this should give you the best of both worlds!