Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos), commonly known by its IATA code ATH, is the largest and busiest airport in Greece, serving as the primary gateway to the country’s capital, Athens. Opened in 2001, the airport is located approximately 20 km (12 miles) southeast of the city center and is known for its modern facilities, efficient services, and easy accessibility to both domestic and international travelers.
Key Highlights:
- Location: Spata, Athens, Greece
- Distance from city center: 20 km (12 miles)
- IATA Code: ATH
- Official Name: Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport
- Terminals: Single terminal with two levels: departures and arrivals
- Website: Athens International Airport
Athens International Airport is not only a major transportation hub but also a gateway to discovering Greece’s cultural heritage and historical landmarks. Below is a detailed guide to help first-time visitors navigate the airport and its services.
General Information
Airport Layout
Athens International Airport has a straightforward layout, featuring a main terminal that serves both Schengen and non-Schengen flights. The terminal is divided into two halls:
- Hall A: Handles flights to non-Schengen countries and international long-haul flights.
- Hall B: Serves flights to Schengen-area countries and domestic destinations.
This makes navigation easy, with clearly marked signs in English and Greek to help travelers find their gates, baggage claim, customs, and other facilities.
Operating Hours
Athens International Airport operates 24 hours a day, and it offers a range of services such as shops, cafes, restaurants, and lounges that cater to travelers even during late hours.
Public Transportation Options
Getting from Athens International Airport to the city center and beyond is convenient with several modes of public transportation available.
Metro
The Athens Metro is one of the most popular and efficient ways to get to and from the airport. The Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) connects the airport directly to the heart of Athens, including stops at Syntagma Square and Monastiraki. Trains run every 30 minutes and the journey to central Athens takes approximately 40 minutes. Metro tickets from the airport are slightly more expensive than regular tickets, costing around €9 for a one-way trip or €16 for a round trip.
- Operating Hours: 06:30 – 23:30
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes
- Ticket Cost: €9 (one-way), €16 (round trip)
Suburban Railway (Proastiakos)
The Proastiakos suburban railway connects the airport with the city center, as well as other key locations, including Larissis Station (Athens’ central railway station) and Piraeus port. It’s a convenient option if you plan to travel beyond the city center, and the tickets are priced similarly to Metro tickets.
- Frequency: Every 15–30 minutes
- Ticket Cost: €9 (one-way)
Bus Services
There are several express bus lines that operate between the airport and various parts of Athens. The most common bus routes include:
- X95: To Syntagma Square (City Center)
- X96: To Piraeus Port (for ferries to islands)
- X93: To Kifissos and Liosion Bus Stations
- X97: To Elliniko Metro Station
Buses run 24/7, making them an excellent option for late-night arrivals. The trip to the city center by bus typically takes around 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Ticket Cost: €6 (one-way)
Currency Exchange and Banking Services
Currency Exchange
Currency exchange services are readily available at Athens International Airport. There are multiple currency exchange counters and ATMs located throughout the arrivals and departures areas. The exchange rates offered at the airport may not be as favorable as those found in the city, so it’s recommended to exchange a small amount at the airport and seek better rates in Athens itself if needed.
- Locations: Arrivals and Departures levels
- Operating Hours: 24/7
ATMs
ATMs from major Greek and international banks are located throughout the airport. These machines accept most international credit and debit cards and are a good option for withdrawing euros directly.
- Locations: Near baggage claim, departure gates, and public areas.
Local Transportation Cards
If you plan to use public transport extensively during your stay, consider purchasing an Ath.ena Ticket or an Ath.ena Card:
- Ath.ena Ticket: A rechargeable paper ticket that can be used on all modes of transport (metro, bus, tram, etc.). It’s valid for 90 minutes, 24 hours, or even five days.
- Ath.ena Card: A plastic, rechargeable card that offers more flexibility and can be topped up with fares for longer periods, including monthly passes.
Both options can be purchased at the Athens International Airport Metro Station or at ticket machines throughout the city.
Local Tips and Secrets for First-Time Visitors
Airport Wi-Fi
Athens International Airport offers free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. Simply connect to the “ATH Free Wi-Fi” network, and you can enjoy unlimited access during your time at the airport.
Mobile SIM Cards
If you need local mobile connectivity, several mobile network operators like Cosmote, Vodafone, and WIND have kiosks or stores in the arrivals area, where you can purchase prepaid SIM cards. These cards offer a variety of data, call, and text packages to suit short-term visitors.
- SIM card cost: Typically ranges from €10 to €30, depending on the data plan.
- Locations: Arrivals level, near the exit to the public area.
Lounges
The airport features several lounges for travelers looking for extra comfort. These include airline-specific lounges like the Aegean Airlines Lounge, as well as independent lounges such as the Skyserv Lounge. These lounges offer complimentary food and drinks, free Wi-Fi, and quiet spaces to relax or work.
- Access: Some lounges are accessible via business class tickets, airline memberships, or paid entry.
Shopping and Dining
Athens International Airport offers a wide variety of duty-free shopping options, including luxury brands, local Greek products, and international goods. Whether you’re looking for designer goods, local delicacies like olive oil and honey, or last-minute souvenirs, you’ll find plenty of choices.
- Duty-Free: Located in the Departures area.
- Greek Delicacies: Try the local food shops offering traditional Greek products.
There are also numerous restaurants and cafes, ranging from fast-food chains to sit-down dining options where travelers can enjoy Greek and international cuisine.
Taxi and Ride-Sharing Services
Taxi Services
Taxis are available 24/7 at the designated taxi rank outside the arrivals area. The ride from the airport to the city center takes approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs a flat rate of around €40 during the day and €55 at night (between midnight and 5 a.m.).
- Taxi Stand Location: Right outside Exit 3 at the Arrivals level.
- Note: Make sure to use only licensed taxis and confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Ride-Sharing Apps
Uber and Beat are two popular ride-hailing services in Athens. Beat is widely used by locals and allows passengers to choose drivers based on ratings. Both apps can be used to book rides from the airport, and they are typically cheaper than regular taxis.
Car Rentals
Several car rental companies operate at Athens International Airport, including major international brands like Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and local companies. Rental counters are located in the Arrivals hall, and the rental car pick-up area is just a short walk from the terminal.
- Booking in advance is recommended, especially during the high tourist season.
- Driving in Greece: Make sure you have an international driving permit (IDP) if your home country’s driver’s license is not recognized in Greece.
Athens International Airport offers a wide array of services to ensure that travelers have a smooth and enjoyable experience, whether they are passing through or beginning their journey in Greece. With its modern facilities, efficient public transport connections, and various amenities like free Wi-Fi, lounges, and convenient dining and shopping options, the airport caters to the needs of both leisure and business travelers. By taking advantage of public transportation, local SIM cards, and transportation passes like the Ath.ena Card, first-time visitors can navigate both the airport and the city with ease.