The nearest airport to Athens is Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos” (ATH), located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) northeast of the city center in the suburb of Spata. It is the only commercial airport serving the Greek capital and the main international gateway to the country.
Why Athens Has Only One Major Airport
Unlike some major cities that have two or three airports, Athens is served by a single commercial airport. The old Ellinikon Airport, which was closer to the city, closed in 2001 after the new airport opened. Ellinikon’s location, surrounded by urban development, made expansion impossible. The new airport was built on a large plot of land near the coast at Spata, chosen for its capacity to grow and its proximity to the new Attiki Odos motorway. Today, ATH handles over 25 million passengers a year, making it the busiest airport in Greece. It is the hub for Aegean Airlines and Olympic Air, and it connects Athens to most European capitals, Middle Eastern hubs, and major North American cities.
Getting From ATH to Central Athens
The distance from ATH to Syntagma Square, the central point of Athens, is about 30 kilometers (19 miles) by road. The travel time varies greatly depending on the mode of transport:
- Metro (Line 3): The fastest and most reliable option. Trains run from the airport to Syntagma and Monastiraki stations in about 40 minutes. The fare is around 9 euros one way (as of 2024).
- Suburban Railway (Proastiakos): Connects the airport to Larissa Station (main railway station) and the port of Piraeus. It is slower than the metro for central Athens but useful for reaching those areas.
- Express Bus (X95): Departs from outside the arrivals hall and goes directly to Syntagma Square. The journey takes about 60-90 minutes depending on traffic. The fare is 5.50 euros.
- Taxi: A taxi from the airport to central Athens costs between 40 and 55 euros, depending on traffic and time of day. The journey takes about 40 minutes without traffic, but can take over an hour during rush hour.
- Ride-hailing apps: Uber and Beat operate in Athens, but they typically pick up from the designated area. Fares are similar to taxis, but sometimes surge pricing applies.
What About the Old Airport?
Many travelers hear about “Athens’ old airport” and wonder if it still operates. Ellinikon Airport, located about 8 kilometers (5 miles) south of the city center, closed in 2001. It was the city’s main airport for over 60 years. Today, the site is being redeveloped into a large coastal park and residential area, but it is not operational for flights. Some small general aviation operations and a helicopter service use a small part of the old infrastructure, but no commercial airlines fly from there. If you are looking for a closer airport, there is none; ATH is the only choice.
How Early Should You Arrive at ATH?
Athens Airport is generally efficient, but during peak summer months and holiday periods, security lines can be long. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at least 3 hours before departure. For domestic flights, 2 hours is usually sufficient. The airport advises passengers to check in online and use self-service bag drop kiosks if available. If you are traveling during a strike (which happen occasionally in Greece), allow extra time. The airport has a dedicated metro station, so you can plan your arrival time precisely.
Comparing ATH to Other Greek Airports
If you are heading to the Greek islands, you might wonder if it is better to fly from Athens or from a regional airport. For example, if you are going to Santorini, you can fly directly from ATH in about 45 minutes. However, some travelers prefer to take a ferry from the port of Piraeus, which is accessible from the airport via the suburban railway. For islands like Crete, flying from ATH is common, but you could also fly from Thessaloniki (SKG) if you are already in northern Greece. For most international visitors, ATH is the entry point, and then they connect to domestic flights. The airport has a dedicated domestic terminal (the main terminal building has two levels: arrivals and departures, with domestic gates on the left side).
Common Misconceptions and Tips
One common misconception is that the airport is far from the city. While it is not in the city center, the metro makes it very accessible. Another misconception is that taxis are expensive; they are actually cheaper than in many European cities, but you should always ensure the meter is running. A useful tip: if you have a long layover, the airport has a small museum with ancient Greek artifacts on display in the main terminal. Also, the airport is a great place to get a SIM card or pick up a rental car. If you are flying out, note that the airport has a duty-free area, but prices are not always better than in the city. For a quick snack, there are many options, but they are pricier than in the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a closer airport to Athens than ATH?
No. Athens International Airport (ATH) is the only commercial airport serving the city. The old Ellinikon Airport is closed and cannot be used for commercial flights. Some private jets use smaller airfields, but for scheduled flights, ATH is the sole option.
How much is a taxi from Athens Airport to the city center?
A taxi from ATH to central Athens (Syntagma Square) costs between 40 and 55 euros, depending on traffic and time of day. The fare is regulated, but you should confirm the driver uses the meter. There is also a flat rate for some destinations, but always ask before starting the journey.
Is the Athens Metro from the airport safe at night?
Yes, the metro is safe at night. The trains run until around midnight, and the stations are well-lit and monitored. However, if you arrive after midnight, you will need to take a taxi or bus. The X95 bus runs 24 hours, so it is a reliable option for late-night arrivals.
Can I walk from the airport to a hotel?
There are a few hotels within walking distance of the airport, such as the Sofitel Athens Airport, which is directly connected to the terminal. Other hotels are further away and require a shuttle or taxi. If you have a late flight, staying at the Sofitel is convenient but expensive. There are also budget hotels in the nearby town of Spata, but they require a short taxi ride.
Do I need a visa to transit through Athens Airport?
If you are a non-EU citizen, you may need a visa to enter Greece, even for a layover. Greece is part of the Schengen Area, so if you leave the transit area, you will need to pass through passport control. If you stay in the international transit area and do not go through security, you may not need a visa for a short connection, but this depends on your nationality. Always check with the Greek embassy or consulate before traveling.
What is the best way to get from Athens Airport to Piraeus port?
The best way is to take the suburban railway (Proastiakos) directly from the airport to Piraeus station. The journey takes about 1 hour and costs around 10 euros. Alternatively, you can take the metro to Monastiraki and then transfer to Line 1 to Piraeus, but this takes longer. A taxi will cost around 50 euros and take about 45 minutes.
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