Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, commonly known as Athens International Airport, is Greece’s largest and most significant airport. Situated about 20 kilometers east of Athens, it serves as the primary gateway to the capital and the rest of Greece. Named after the influential Greek statesman Eleftherios Venizelos, the airport seamlessly blends modern infrastructure with Greece’s rich historical heritage. As the busiest airport in the country, ATH is a central hub for both domestic and international flights, connecting travelers to destinations across Europe, Asia, the Americas, and beyond.
Over the years, Athens International Airport has earned a strong reputation for its efficiency, convenience, and quality of service. Serving over 25 million passengers annually, the airport continually expands and upgrades its facilities to meet the growing demands of air travel. Whether you are visiting Athens to explore its ancient landmarks, heading to the picturesque Greek islands, or connecting to another global destination, Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport offers a smooth and enjoyable travel experience from the moment you arrive.
Terminals overview
Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport features two main terminals: the Main Terminal and the Satellite Terminal. Both are designed to handle large volumes of passengers while providing a comfortable and efficient travel experience.
Main Terminal
The Main Terminal is the heart of Athens International Airport, handling the majority of flights, including both Schengen and non-Schengen routes. This terminal is a modern, expansive facility equipped with everything travelers need for a smooth journey. It features extensive check-in areas, numerous boarding gates, and a wide range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and lounges. The Main Terminal is divided into two sections: the Schengen Area, which handles flights within the Schengen Zone, and the Non-Schengen Area, which serves international destinations outside the Schengen Agreement. Clear signage and a logical layout make navigating this terminal straightforward, even for first-time visitors.
Satellite Terminal:
The Satellite Terminal is connected to the Main Terminal by an underground walkway and is primarily used during peak travel periods to manage the overflow of passengers. This terminal is smaller but fully equipped to handle international flights, with several boarding gates, a range of shops and dining options, and comfortable waiting areas. The Satellite Terminal is typically used for additional non-Schengen flights, especially during the busy summer months when the number of travelers passing through Athens increases significantly. Despite its smaller size, the Satellite Terminal provides all the necessary services to ensure a comfortable and efficient travel experience.
Key Features
Efficient Layout:
Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport’s terminals are designed with efficiency in mind, ensuring that passengers can move through the airport smoothly and without unnecessary delays. The spacious check-in areas in both terminals feature multiple counters and self-service kiosks, helping to expedite the check-in process. Security screening is designed to be quick and hassle-free, with numerous lanes available to handle the flow of passengers, particularly during peak travel times. The terminals also include wide corridors and ample seating, allowing passengers to navigate the airport comfortably.
Both terminals are equipped with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, charging stations for electronic devices, and a variety of dining and shopping options. The terminals’ design emphasizes passenger comfort, with clear signage, digital flight information displays, and helpful staff available to assist with any questions or concerns. Whether you are in the Main Terminal or the Satellite Terminal, the airport’s layout ensures that your travel experience is as seamless as possible.
Duty-Free Shopping
The duty-free shopping experience at Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport is second to none. Located in the departure areas of both the Main and Satellite Terminals, the duty-free shops offer a wide range of products, including luxury goods, cosmetics, fragrances, and local Greek specialties. Whether you’re looking for premium spirits, designer jewelry, or authentic Greek olive oil and honey, the duty-free shops have something for every traveler.
The selection of local products is particularly noteworthy, with many shops offering traditional Greek items such as handmade ceramics, textiles, and sweets like baklava and loukoumi. These unique products make excellent souvenirs or gifts, allowing you to take a piece of Greece home with you. The shopping experience is further enhanced by the friendly and knowledgeable staff, who are always ready to assist with recommendations and help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Dining Options
Dining at Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport is a culinary journey in itself, with a variety of options available to suit all tastes and preferences. The airport’s restaurants and cafes offer everything from traditional Greek cuisine to international dishes, ensuring that every traveler can find something delicious to enjoy.
For those who want to savor authentic Greek flavors, the airport’s eateries serve a range of local dishes, including souvlaki, moussaka, and fresh seafood. These restaurants provide a warm and inviting atmosphere where you can relax and enjoy a meal before your flight. In addition to Greek cuisine, the airport also offers several international dining options, including fast-food outlets, cafes, and sit-down restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a more substantial meal, the dining options at ATH cater to all needs, making your time at the airport both pleasant and satisfying.
Navigating
Public Transportation
Athens International Airport is well-connected to the city and surrounding regions by various public transportation options. The Athens Metro Line 3 (the Blue Line) offers a direct connection from the airport to key locations in the city, including Syntagma Square and Monastiraki, making it a convenient and affordable way to reach the city center. The metro station is easily accessible from the Main Terminal, with clear signage guiding passengers to the platforms. Trains run frequently, ensuring that you can get to your destination quickly.
In addition to the metro, regular bus services operate between the airport and various parts of Athens and beyond. Several express bus lines, including X95 (to Syntagma Square), X93 (to Kifisos Bus Terminal), X96 (to Piraeus Port), and X97 (to Elliniko Metro Station), provide reliable and affordable connections to key locations in the city.
The bus stops are located just outside the Main Terminal, making it easy to access public transportation as soon as you exit the airport.
Taxis
For those who prefer a more direct and comfortable mode of transportation, taxis are readily available outside the arrivals area of the Main Terminal. Taxis offer a convenient and quick way to reach your destination, especially if you are traveling with heavy luggage or in a group. The taxi queue is well-organized, and there are always plenty of taxis on hand to accommodate the flow of passengers. The journey from the airport to the city center typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis in Athens operate on a metered fare system, with additional charges for airport pick-up and nighttime rides.
GetTransfer Service:
For travelers seeking a more personalized and hassle-free transportation option, GetTransfer offers a premium service that ensures a smooth and comfortable journey to and from Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport. GetTransfer allows you to book your transfer in advance, selecting from a variety of vehicles that best suit your needs. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group, GetTransfer provides a reliable and convenient alternative to public transportation or taxis. The service is available 24/7, and professional drivers with local knowledge ensure that you arrive at your destination safely and on time. This service is particularly useful for those who value convenience, comfort, and peace of mind when traveling.
Where to eat
Where to Eat at Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport
Dining at Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport is a delightful experience, with a wide range of options available to suit every taste. The airport’s dining establishments offer everything from traditional Greek cuisine to international favorites, ensuring that every traveler can find something to enjoy.
Greek Cuisine: For those who want to indulge in authentic Greek flavors, the airport’s restaurants serve a variety of traditional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Passengers can enjoy classics such as tzatziki, grilled meats, and baklava, all prepared to highlight the best of Greek culinary traditions. These eateries provide a warm and inviting atmosphere, allowing you to savor a final taste of Greece before your journey continues.
International Dining Options: In addition to Greek specialties, Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport also offers a variety of international dining options. Fast-food outlets provide quick and convenient meals for those on the go, while cafes and coffee shops offer light snacks, pastries, and a variety of beverages. For travelers with more time, sit-down restaurants provide a more leisurely dining experience, with menus that include both local and international dishes. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or just a quick bite, the dining options at ATH ensure that every traveler can find something satisfying.
FAQ
Is there free Wi-Fi available at ATH?
Yes, Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport offers complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the terminals. Passengers can easily connect to the “ATH Free Wi-Fi” network by following the simple on-screen instructions. The service is reliable and fast, allowing travelers to browse the internet, check emails, or stream content without interruption. For those who require more robust internet access, premium Wi-Fi options are available for purchase, offering higher speeds and extended usage times.
How can I get to Athens from the airport?
Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport is conveniently located about 20 kilometers from the city center, making it easily accessible by a variety of transportation options. The Athens Metro Line 3 connects the airport directly to key locations in the city, providing a fast and efficient way to travel. In addition to the metro, regular bus services link the airport to different parts of Athens and surrounding areas. Taxis are readily available outside the terminal, offering a direct and comfortable ride to your destination.
For those who prefer the flexibility of driving, several car rental agencies operate at the airport, providing a wide range of vehicles to suit different needs. Additionally, travelers can book a transfer with GetTransfer, a premium service that allows you to arrange your transfer in advance. GetTransfer offers a selection of vehicles and professional drivers who ensure a smooth and timely journey to your destination, providing a hassle-free alternative to public transportation.
Are there car rental services at the airport?
Yes, Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport offers a variety of car rental services, with several well-known agencies operating within the terminals. Whether you need a compact car for exploring the city or a larger vehicle for traveling around Greece, you’ll find a suitable option at one of the airport’s car rental counters. The process is quick and easy, allowing you to pick up and drop off your vehicle with minimal hassle. In addition to standard rentals, many agencies offer additional services such as GPS navigation, child safety seats, and comprehensive insurance packages, ensuring that you have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable driving experience in Greece.
