The Ultimate Guide to Athens International Airport (ATH)

Overview of Athens International Airport (ATH)

Athens International Airport (ATH), officially known as Eleftherios Venizelos Airport, is Greece’s largest and busiest airport. Located approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) east of Athens city center, ATH serves as a vital hub for travel in southeastern Europe and the eastern Mediterranean. Known for its modern infrastructure, efficient services, and cultural exhibits, the airport is the main base for Aegean Airlines and a key gateway to popular destinations across Greece and beyond.

• Location: Spata, Athens, Greece

• IATA Code: ATH

• ICAO Code: LGAV

• Opened: 2001

• Annual Passenger Traffic: Over 25 million (pre-pandemic levels)

• Terminals: 1 main terminal with a satellite terminal connected via underground walkway

History of Athens International Airport

Opened in 2001, Athens International Airport replaced the older Hellinikon Airport as the city’s primary aviation gateway. Named after Eleftherios Venizelos, a prominent Greek statesman, the airport was built to accommodate growing passenger demand and support Greece’s role as a key tourist destination. Designed with expansion in mind, ATH has consistently upgraded its facilities to ensure world-class service, including the development of a satellite terminal and sustainability initiatives.

Terminal Layout at Athens International Airport

Athens International Airport features a single main terminal and a satellite terminal for overflow capacity. The terminals are connected via an underground walkway, ensuring easy access for passengers.

1. Main Terminal

• Overview:

  • Handles both Schengen and non-Schengen flights.

• Key Features:

  • Divided into two halls: Hall A (non-Schengen flights) and Hall B (Schengen flights and domestic routes).

  • Extensive dining and shopping options, as well as premium lounges.

2. Satellite Terminal

• Overview:

  • Used during peak periods to handle additional traffic.

• Key Features:

  • Primarily serves low-cost carriers and charter flights.

  • Connected to the main terminal via an underground passageway.

Transportation Options to and from ATH

1. Metro (Line 3 – Blue Line)

• Details:

  • The Metro connects the airport to Athens city center, Syntagma Square, and Monastiraki.

  • The station is located directly outside the main terminal.

• Travel Time: ~40 minutes to Syntagma Square.

• Cost: €9 (one-way adult ticket).

2. Suburban Railway (Proastiakos)

• Details:

  • Regional train service connecting the airport to major railway hubs and cities like Corinth and Kiato.

• Travel Time: ~35 minutes to Athens Central Railway Station (Larissis Station).

• Cost: €9 (one-way adult ticket).

3. Public Buses

• Details:

  • Four express bus routes connect ATH to central Athens, Piraeus Port, and other areas.

  • Popular routes include X95 (to Syntagma Square) and X96 (to Piraeus).

• Travel Time: ~60 minutes to Syntagma Square (traffic-dependent).

• Cost: €5.50 (one-way).

4. Taxi and Rideshare

• Taxi:

  • Travel Time: ~35-50 minutes to Athens city center.

  • Fixed Fare: €40 (daytime) or €55 (nighttime) to/from central Athens.

• Rideshare:

  • Services like Uber and Free Now operate at designated pickup zones.

5. Car Rentals

• Providers:

  • Avis, Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, and others.

• Pickup/Drop-off: Located in designated areas near the main terminal.

Parking at Athens International Airport

1. Short-Term Parking (P1 and P2)

• Details:

  • Located close to the terminal for quick drop-offs and pickups.

• Cost: Starting at €3/hour.

2. Long-Term Parking (P3)

• Details:

  • Connected to the main terminal via a free shuttle bus.

• Cost: Starting at €9/day.

3. Premium Parking

• Details:

  • Reserved spaces closest to the terminal entrance.

  • Includes valet services.

• Cost: Starting at €20/day.

4. Electric Vehicle Parking

• Details:

  • Charging stations available in long-term and premium parking areas.

  • Fees apply in addition to parking rates.

Dining and Shopping Options

Dining at ATH

• Greek Cuisine:

  • Taste & Fly: Offers traditional Greek dishes, including souvlaki and moussaka.

  • Gregory’s: Quick snacks and coffee, with Greek pastries like spanakopita.

• International Options:

  • McDonald’s: Fast food for travelers on the go.

  • KFC: Known for fried chicken meals.

• Bars and Cafés:

  • Illy Café: Premium Italian coffee and light snacks.

Shopping at ATH

• Duty-Free:

  • Wide range of perfumes, cosmetics, alcohol, and tobacco.

• Luxury Brands:

  • Swarovski, Tommy Hilfiger, and Bvlgari.

• Local Specialties:

  • Shops like "Hellenic Duty-Free" offer olive oil, honey, and Greek wines.

• Essentials:

  • WHSmith and Relay for books, magazines, and travel necessities.

Lounges at Athens International Airport

1. Aegean Airlines Business Lounge (Schengen and Non-Schengen)

• Access: Available to Business Class passengers, Miles+Bonus Gold members, and Star Alliance Gold members.

• Features:

  • Buffet dining, premium beverages, and showers.

  • Comfortable seating and workspaces.

2. Skyserv Lounge (Main Terminal)

• Access: Open to all passengers for a fee or Priority Pass holders.

• Features:

  • Snacks, drinks, and panoramic runway views.

3. Goldair Handling Lounge (Main Terminal)

• Access: Available to premium passengers and pay-per-use.

• Features:

  • Complimentary refreshments, business facilities, and relaxation areas.

Nearby Hotels

1. Sofitel Athens Airport

• Distance: Directly opposite the terminal, a 2-minute walk.

• Features:

  • Luxurious rooms, a rooftop pool, and gourmet dining.

2. Holiday Inn Athens Attica Av. Airport West

• Distance: 10 minutes by car with a free shuttle service.

• Features:

  • Comfortable accommodations, meeting rooms, and on-site dining.

3. Dolce by Wyndham Athens Attica Riviera

• Distance: 20 minutes by car.

• Features:

  • Seaside location with a spa, outdoor pool, and fine dining.

Top Tips for Travelers at Athens International Airport

1. Arrive Early: Allow at least 2 hours for European flights and 3 hours for long-haul flights.

2. Explore Greek Cuisine: Try authentic dishes like souvlaki or baklava at airport restaurants.

3. Use the Metro: The Blue Line is the fastest and most affordable way to reach central Athens.

4. Free Wi-Fi: Unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.

5. Shop Local: Pick up Greek olive oil, honey, or wine as souvenirs.

Future Developments at ATH

• Terminal Expansion: Plans to increase passenger capacity with new gates and facilities.

• Sustainability Initiatives: Investments in renewable energy and eco-friendly infrastructure.

• Improved Connectivity: Enhancements to public transport links and road access.

Athens International Airport combines efficiency, cultural charm, and modern amenities, making it a key hub for travel in the Mediterranean. Whether you’re exploring Greece or connecting to another destination, ATH ensures a seamless and enjoyable journey.