Athens Airport: Your Gateway to Meet Greece
Athens International Airport, officially named “El. Venizelos” and shortly known as AIA, is the biggest and most widely known airport in Greece. Moreover, it is the most occupied aviation hub in the Balkans and is listed among the busiest European airports. Located 33km/20.5 miles away from Athens city center, in the Spata area, Athens Airport is the “home” of Aegean Airlines and a focus airport for some smaller, mostly budget air carriers.
El. Venizelos opened its doors in 2001, replacing the old Ellinikon International Airport. It was named after the great Greek politician and prime minister, who had a huge impact on the modern history of Greece. Its construction was put into place occasioned by the upcoming 2004 Olympic Games. Verily, the new airport utterly served the rising passenger needs during that period of time. Still, the passenger traffic continued increasing from that moment on. Hence, nowadays, millions of travelers fly from or to ATH Airport, mainly during the high tourist season (the summer months). As a matter of fact, in 2024, Athens Airport welcomed more than 31,8 million tourists, springing back and even exceeding its pre-COVID levels.
The airport of the Greek capital offers its passengers a wide range of amenities as well as quick and effective services. Apart from the anticipated services, El. Venizelos has many cultural attractions. Thus, it hosts the Acropolis Exhibition, a small but fascinating museum with exhibits found in the nearby area during the airport’s construction, and an exhibition dedicated to El. Venizelos, while various art collections and events are displayed and organized on its premises from time to time. Overall, Athens Airport is a modern, multi-awarded, and passenger-friendly aviation hub.
Airport Name: Athens International Airport
IATA Code: ATH
ICAO: LGAV
Location: Spata, Athens, Greece
Time Zone: Eastern European Summer Time (UTC+3)
Airport Map: Athens Airport at Google Maps
Athens Airport’s History
Athens Airport opened its doors in 2001. It is named after Eleftherios Venizelos, the prominent Greek statesman who, among other achievements, invested in the aviation industry during the 1930s. The airport is operated by Athens International Airport S.A. (AIA S.A.). Its ownership is divided between the Greek state and private investors, with the state holding a 55% stake.
El. Venizelos Airport was planned to replace the old Ellinikon International Airport, which could no longer handle the passenger traffic and could not be expanded. Plans for the new airport began to take shape back in 1970. Several locations were then considered, with Spata being the final and most suitable choice. In fact, Athens Airport S.A. was established in 1978 with the purpose of overseeing the new airport’s construction. However, due to several delays and setbacks, the project resumed only in 1991, with AIA S.A. being established in 1996. It is undeniable that ATH Airport was ultimately constructed with the 2004 Summer Olympic Games in Athens in mind.
The airport was ready to operate five months before its scheduled date. However, Attiki Odos, the highway linking the airport to the city of Athens, wasn’t completed. As a result, El. Venizelos Airport began operating on March 28, 2001.
Nowadays, Athens International Airport is a busy hub. In fact, it is the main airport in Greece and the 16th busiest air hub in Europe. It has two runways and two terminal buildings (the main terminal and the satellite building) and can accommodate Airbus A380.
Athens Airport’s Layout
Athens International Airport has two terminals known as the “main terminal” and the “Satellite” terminal. The two terminals are connected through an underground link.
The main terminal is spread over 3 levels. One hosts the dining area, and the other two serve the arrivals and the departures, respectively. What’s more, the main terminal has two Halls. Hall A handles flights from non-Schengen and non-European countries, while Hall B accommodates domestic services and flights from Schengen Area countries. On the other hand, the Satellite terminal has two levels, one for arrivals and one for departures.
Flights to and from Athens Airport
Athens International Airport handles numerous flights and serves a wide range of destinations. Indeed, flights depart and arrive daily at ATH Airport, connecting the Greek capital not only with domestic destinations but also with several European cities. Intercontinental flights are also available. The primary airlines operating at Athens Airport are Aegean Airlines and Olympic Air, both of which have a hub at El. Venizelos. Additionally, the airport is an operating base for Sky Express and Ryanair.
Our Tip: Gates A and B are located at the main terminal, while Gates C can be found at the satellite building.
Domestic Departures from ATH Airport
Several flights connect Athens International Airport with destinations on the Greek mainland as well as various Greek islands. Passengers can find daily connections to Thessaloniki and Alexandroupolis, as well as to Milos, Santorini, Paros, Naxos, Crete, Rhodes, and other destinations.
Travelers to domestic destinations are advised to arrive at the airport about 1-2 hours before the scheduled departure of the flight. The pre-flight procedures for domestic flights are uncomplicated. Passengers need to reach their airline’s check-in counter to receive their boarding pass and drop off any checked luggage. That being said, if they don’t travel with hold luggage and have checked in online, they can proceed directly to the security control. After passing security screening, passengers proceed to their gate, where they have to show their boarding pass and passport before boarding their plane. It’s important to remember that the departure gate may change unexpectedly. Therefore, you should always keep an eye on the flight information screens for updates.
Our Tip: Not all airlines allow web check-in. Conversely, online check-in is mandatory for some air carriers, while others charge extra fees for printing boarding passes.
International Departures from ATH Airport
Athens Airport is also connected to international destinations. Indeed, flights depart from the major Greek airport heading to numerous European cities, but also to the Middle East, Africa, and North America.
Overall, the airport procedures for non-Schengen flights are more time-consuming. Hence, passengers traveling to an international destination should arrive at the airport around 3 hours before their flight. However, the procedure is simple enough. The first step is to check in at the airline’s check-in counter and drop off your luggage. Have you checked in online and have no luggage to drop off? You should go straight to the security screening to be screened and have your hand luggage screened as well. If you’re eligible for a VAT refund, you must have your Tax-Free Form stamped by customs before checking in your luggage. You’ll claim your refund right after the security control point. Afterward, you’ll pass through passport control to enter the international area of the airport. Proceed to your gate, keeping in mind that the departure gate may change at any time. You’ll be asked to show your boarding pass and passport again just before boarding the plane.
Our Tip: Not all airlines offer web check-in services, while for some carriers, online check-in is the only option. Additionally, some airlines charge printing fees for passengers who don’t check in online. Finally, ATH Airport is equipped with self-service check-in kiosks (CUSS kiosks). Passengers can print their boarding passes and, depending on the airline’s policy, even drop off their luggage there.
Domestic Arrivals to ATH Airport
Passengers landing at Athens International Airport from a domestic destination arrive at Level 0 of the main terminal building. They need to proceed to the baggage claim area to retrieve their luggage. If they don’t travel with hold luggage, they simply exit the Arrivals area to Area B (between Exits 4 and 5).
International Arrivals to ATH Airport
International passengers also arrive at Level 0 of the main terminal. Passengers arriving from non-Schengen countries must go through passport control, while those coming from Schengen countries proceed directly to the baggage claim area. Some passengers are required to go through customs inspection and declare cash afterward. Passengers from a non-Schengen destination proceed to Area A (between Gates 1 and 2). Conversely, travelers from Schengen countries proceed to Area B (between Exits 4 and 5).
Connecting Passengers at ATH Airport
Passengers with connecting flights don’t exit Athens Airport but need to board the upcoming flight to their final destination. So, what should they do once they land at El. Venizelos?
- Passengers with boarding passes can proceed directly to the gate for their next flight.
- Passengers who don’t have their boarding passes for their connecting flight need to check in at one of the transfer desks, check-in counters, or the self-service CUSS Kiosks. Web check-in is also possible, depending on the airline’s policy.
- Passengers who have checked their luggage through to their final destination don’t need to retrieve it. However, if the luggage isn’t checked through to their journey’s end, they must claim it at the baggage reclaim area (Ground Floor) and drop it off at the check-in counters (Level 1).
Our Tip: The main terminal building houses Gates A and B, while Gates C are located at the satellite terminal. Please remember to check the flight monitors regularly, as departure gates may change without prior notice.
Luggage at Athens Airport
Luggage rules and restrictions apply based on the type of baggage:
- Hold Luggage: Hold luggage is subject to weight restrictions. They vary depending on the airline and fare class. Additionally, each airline has its own policy regarding bulky luggage and prohibited items.
- Hand Baggage: There are special restrictions concerning the weight and size of hand baggage (carry-ons) to ensure they fit in the aircraft’s overhead compartments. Moreover, strict rules and limitations apply to prohibited and controlled items.
Airlines Operating at Athens Airport
Athens International Airport is listed among the busiest airports in Europe. Therefore, Arrivals and Departures from Athens Airport are numerous on a daily basis, especially during peak travel seasons. Moreover, all the major airlines, as well as subsidiary and low-cost air carriers, are present at El. Venizelos Airport. Unsurprisingly, ATH Airport is a home base for Aegean Airlines, the Greek flag carrier, and for Olympic Air. Moreover, it is a key hub for other, smaller airlines.
The Necessary Documents
What documents do you need to fly from Athens International Airport? Overall, the following documents are required for air travel:
- boarding pass
- ID/Passport (depending on the departure country and the destination)
- Visa (for some countries)
- proof of vaccination (for specific destinations)
- extra documentation may be required (e.g., when traveling with a minor, ESTA (US), etc.)
An Overview of Athens Airport Services and Amenities
The modern and efficient Athens Airport offers its passengers a pleasant and smooth travel experience. Its various services and amenities ensure seamless airport procedures, catering to all passengers’ needs. Thus, there are special services for families, travelers with disabilities, elderly passengers, and unaccompanied minors. The airport’s staff is highly skilled, multilingual, and always happy to offer help and assist travelers. Therefore, whatever you might need during your journey to and from ATH Airport, you can rest assured that you’ll get it.
The ATH Airport Shops
Whether you shop at every opportunity, enjoy window shopping, are looking for some gifts, or opt for a last-minute purchase of travel essentials, you’ll find everything you need at Athens International Airport. Housing numerous stores, the ATH Airport promises a fascinating shopping experience. The Airport Agora, as the ATH’s shopping scene is called, offers the following options:
- AB Vassilopoulos
- All Greek to Me
- A Piece of Greece
- Ancient Greek Sandals
- Antetokounbros
- Apivita
- Artpoint
- Attica
- Agrecofarms
- Bag Stories
- Boss
- Candyfair
- Cozykids
- Callista
- Emporio Armani
- Ergon Originals
- Fairynails
- Ferragamo
- Gofas
- Greek Jewellery
- Greek Angels
- Kostarelos
- Korres
- Li-LA-LO
- Mastihashop
- MCM
- Michael Kors
- Montblanc
- Mythogea
- Melira
- Olive Era
- Panaidis Eyewear Boutique
- Pharmacy
- Pinko
- Polo Ralph Lauren
- Public Books
- Public Connect
- Sim Local
- Sugarfree
- Sun of a Beach
- Sunglasses Boutique
- Swatch
- Swarovski
- The Power of a Flower
- The Greek Designers Store
- The Naxos Apothecary
- Timebox
- Terkenlis
- Victoria’s Secret
- Vilebrequin
- Weekend Max Mara
- WHSmith
- Zeus + Dione
The ATH Dining Options
Numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes are located inside the ATH airport terminals. Therefore, regardless of your personal preferences or budget, you can always enjoy a small bite, a refreshing beverage, a rejuvenating drink, or even a fancy dinner. The following dining facilities can be found at Athens Airport:
- Amore
- Ancho
- Artisan-Taf
- Barbadimos
- Bistrot Attica Athens
- Bufala Gelato
- Burger King
- Camden Food CO
- Cinnabon
- Coffee Berry
- Cultivos
- Easy
- Eat Greek
- Ergon
- Everest
- Flocafe
- Green Veneti 1948
- Gregory’s
- Holy Burger
- Kayak
- Koi Sushi Bar
- Koulourades
- La Pasteria
- Levito
- Mailo’s The Pasta Project
- Mon Kooloor
- Pret a Manger
- Starbucks
- To Go
- The Beer House
- Veneti
The Duty-Free Outlets
Athens Airport features several duty-free facilities. Therefore, passengers can buy a wide variety of products, saving on taxes. In detail, the following duty-free outlets are present at El. Venizelos:
- Arrival Shop
- Cigars
- Confectionery
- Electronics
- Hellenic Gourmet
- Last Minute Shopping
- Perfumes & Cosmetics
- Spirits
- Tobacco
The ATH Lounges and Hotels
Can you think of a more hassle-free way to spend the time until your flight’s departure than using a lounge facility? Athens Airport houses many lounges. Some are dedicated to airlines’ business or VIP travelers, while others can be accessed by any passenger for a fee. On the other hand, the airport doesn’t house hotels within its terminals. However, a hotel is located a few steps from its exit doors. Here are all the lounge and hotel options at El. Venizelos Airport:
- Aegean Business Lounge (Area A)
- Skyserv Handling Services
- Goldair Handling (Area A)
- Aegean Business Lounge (Area B)
- Goldair Handling (Area B)
- Lufthansa – Business Lounge
- Skyserv Handling Services – Melina Mercouri (Area B)
- Goldair Handling (Satellite Building)
- Sofitel Athens Airport
Family Services at Athens Airport
Families typically find the airport experience enjoyable, as special services guarantee a hassle-free experience. While the airport’s personnel provide dedicated assistance to young passengers and their parents, ATH Airport also features kids’ toilets and restrooms equipped with baby-changing facilities. Moreover, there are baby care rooms where babies can be fed and changed. Numerous stores catering to children can be found at the Airport Agora, and several restaurants and snack bars offer kids’ menus. Plus, a playground is located near the El. Venizelos Exhibition, where kids between 2.5 and 9 years of age make the most of their spare time at the airport.
The Accessible Services at ATH Airport
Complying with all regulations that cater to the travel needs of passengers with disabilities (chronic or temporary disabilities), Athens Airport is a modern and fully accessible air hub. In fact, passengers can even pre-book the services required for a pleasant travel experience. All facilities (parking, restrooms, check-in, security and passport control areas, internet zones, etc.) are accessible, while ramps and elevators can also be found inside and outside the terminals. Designated waiting zones and pick-up and drop-off areas are also available. Finally, travelers with hearing problems benefit from the Skymakers’ EVENLY platform.
Services and Amenities
The provided services and amenities are various and top-rated. All in all, layovers at Athens Airport are typically described as pleasant and smooth. Some of the available services are:
- Baggage carts / Luggage wrapping / Luggage Storage
- Meet & Greet services
- Pharmacies /Medical center
- Postal services
- Banks / ATMs / Currency exchange areas
- Lost & Found
- Chapel
- Smoking areas
- Business Center
- Spa facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Charging stations
- Information kiosks
- Various cultural exhibitions
Pet Facilities at ATH Airport
Athens International Airport is a pet-friendly aviation hub. That being said, all pets (even guide dogs) must have a pet passport, a vaccination certification, and potentially other documentation as well, depending on the airline and the destination of the flight. Moreover, pets must be with their owners at all times and be kept in a crate or wear a muzzle if needed. All dogs must wear a leash. A pet zone can be found at the non-Schengen departure area in the post-security zone. It is located near Gate A15.
Contact Info
- Official Name: Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos”
- Address: 19019 Spata, Athens
- Phone Number: (+30) 2103530000
- E-mail: airport_info@aia.gr
- Official Website: https://www.aia.gr/en
Transit Options
Athens International Airport is adequately connected to downtown, as well as to various city districts. Hence, travelers can conveniently reach their journey’s end, no matter their needs or budget. In fact, passengers traveling from Athens Airport to city center can catch an airport taxi or book a private airport transfer for their journey. Alternatively, they can take the bus, metro, or suburban train to get to Athens, or even rent a car from Athens Airport.
Athens Airport Taxis
Athens airport taxis provide safe and efficient services from Athens International Airport. Taxi rides from El. Venizelos to Athens downtown are fixed-priced. Conversely, all other journeys are metered. Taxis are always available at the taxi rank, just outside the Arrivals of the main terminal building.
Bus Lines from ATH Airport
Four bus lines depart from Athens Airport, connecting it to several parts of Athens. Indeed, buses X93, X95, X96, and X97 serve El. Venizelos Airport. Are you planning to travel by bus? A one-way ticket costs 5.50€/6.38$. Moreover, KTEL Buses also run from ATH Airport.
Athens Airport Metro
The Athens airport metro line 3 (Blue Line) travels from the metro station, linked to the second level of the main terminal (Departures area) via a passageway. The metro line runs from the airport to the city center (Syntagma Square) and Piraeus. It operates from 06:10 am to 11:34 pm at a 36-minute frequency. The ticket for a metro ride is priced at 9€/10$.
Athens Airport Train
The Athens airport train (Proastiakos or Suburban Train) travels from El. Venizelos Airport to Athens Central Train Station. It also offers connections to Piraeus. It costs 9€/10$ and runs from 06:07 am to 11:07 pm. The train station is linked to the main terminal via an overpass. Travelers need to proceed to the Departures area (Level 2) to reach the railway station.
Athens Airport Car Rentals
Numerous car rental companies are present at El. Venizelos. Athens airport car rentals are widely favored by ATH passengers, especially those planning to travel beyond the city and explore nearby or more distant destinations. Thus, early reservations are always recommended to ensure availability and save time at the airport.
Athens Private Airport Transfers
The most luxurious way to travel from Athens International Airport is via a private airport transfer. Private airport transfers provide door-to-door rides, along with welcome services at the airport and many side amenities, which allow passengers to customize their rides. They are slightly more expensive than ordinary taxis but offer added convenience and premium features.
Transfer Between Terminals
Athens Airport has two terminal buildings. It consists of the Main Terminal, which handles the majority of flights, and the Satellite Terminal, which serves as a supplementary terminal during the peak tourist season. The two terminals lie close to each other and are within walking distance. Thus, passengers can travel from one terminal to the other on foot, using the underground passageway, which is equipped with moving walkways.
Parking Facilities
El. Venizelos parking facilities meet the needs and requirements of its passengers. Verily, Athens Airport houses two short-term parking lots (P1 and P2) and a long-stay car park. Additionally, a designated zone for motorcycles is also to be found close to the P1 Parking, within a short distance from the terminal’s doors, while Valet services are provided as well. Last but not least, ATH Airport is an accessible airport. Hence, it houses parking areas for travelers with disabilities.
The City of Athens
Athens is the Capital of Greece and is one of the top world destinations thanks to its historical significance. The birthplace of democracy is full of monuments and sites, with the Parthenon and Acropolis being undoubtedly the major city attractions. Its museums and archaeological sites are numerous, scattered around the city center, the outskirts, and the nearby regions. Nevertheless, apart from its cultural alternatives, Athens is a vivid Mediterranean city, full of street markets, cozy restaurants, traditional “tavernas”, and bars. Its nightlife is well-known, attracting many visitors who appreciate Athens’ history as well as its entertainment options.
FAQs
Does Athens have only one airport?
Yes, Athens International Airport, El. Venizelos, is the only airport in Athens. It serves both domestic and international flights and is the largest airport in Greece, welcoming millions of passengers annually.
How many terminals does Athens Airport have?
Athens Airport has two terminals, the main terminal and the Satellite terminal, which are connected via an underground link. In the long term, the airport is planned to be expanded to cope with the rising passenger traffic.
How early should I arrive at Athens Airport?
A two-hour arrival before the flight is recommended, especially during the peak season, which is during the summer.
Is Athens Airport open 24 hours?
Athens Airport is open around the clock. Therefore, you can travel stress-free even if you are landing in the early hours of the morning or you have to spend the night at the airport.
What are the transportation options from Athens Airport?
Are you looking for a stress-free ride from Athens Airport to city? You can choose between Athens airport taxis and private airport transfers. Do you value independence above all? Then, opt for an airport car rental! On the other hand, if a low-cost transfer is your top priority, you can use the public buses, the metro, or the suburban train, frequently departing from ATH Airport.