Athens Airport Guide

Whether you have a layover, overnight sleepover or are just quickly passing through, our Athens Airport Guide is a great place to start planning your visit. Here, you’ll find information on services and facilities available inside the airport – including details about airport lounges, WiFi, mobile charging points, lockers, 24-hour food options, nearby hotels, and everything in between.

Security announcements are a bit loud and frequent. At 4 they turn on music, really too loud even through ear plugs.” – a traveller

ATH Airport Overview

To help you plan your layover or overnight sleepover, here is a quick run-down about what to expect during your time at Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos.

What to Expect

Relative to other airports in Greece, Athens Airport (code: ATH) is Greece’s largest and most modern airport. It has a main terminal with two halls (Hall A for non-Schengen flights, Hall B for Schengen flights) and a satellite terminal. The terminals are connected by an underground walkway with a moving sidewalk and an above-ground walkway.

Amenities at Athens Airport are simple and to the point. Several restaurants are open 24 hours a day, and there are art installations and a museum to briefly keep you entertained. WiFi is available to pass the time. For those looking for a little added comfort, there are first-class lounges that economy-class passengers can pay to access.

Sleeping in Athens Airport

Sleeping at Athens Airport is generally easier after security, where travellers report recliners, cushioned benches and more armrest-free seating; before security, options are rougher and some travellers have been told not to lie down. Noise, bright lighting and cold temperatures are the main overnight complaints, although conditions vary by area and how busy the airport is. One of Athens’ more sleep-friendly features is the concentration of proper reclining chairs and stretch-out seating airside. For detailed sleeping locations, conditions, photos and traveller tips, see our Guide to Sleeping in Athens Airport.

For those seeking more privacy and comfort, an on-site airport hotel option is available. See Airport Hotels in the guide below.

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Airport Hours

The airport is open 24 hours, with landside and airside access available overnight. Security checkpoints operate 24/7, though some Schengen areas (Hall B) may close between approximately 1:00 AM – 4:00 AM, depending on flight schedules. A valid boarding pass is required to remain airside overnight.

Rest & Relaxation Zones

There are no official rest or quiet zones. Travellers have reported quieter seating areas in the following locations:

Airside, near Gate B22 (Schengen)
Airside, near Gate A15 (non-Schengen)
Landside, near the pharmacy (Level 0)

Availability and suitability may vary depending on time of day and operational changes. If this information has changed, click here to update this guide.

Airport Hotels & Day Rooms

Quick Facts

Nearest Hotel: Within a two-minute walk from the airport
Sleep Cabins & Pods: No
Day Rooms: Yes
Nearby Hotels with Free Shuttles: Yes

For travellers who prefer not to sleep in public seating areas, there are nearby hotel and B&B options. While there are no transit hotels or in-terminal sleep cabins, several hotels are either walkable or reachable by shuttle.

Sofitel Athens Airport
Located 50 metres opposite the terminal. Two-minute walk from the airport’s main terminal.

More hotels and accommodations near the airport:

Zed Smart Property by Airstay
(2.0 mi / 3.2 km) Serviced apartments.

Varaba Country House
(2.1 mi / 3.4 km) Boutique guesthouse.

Boutique Studios & Apartments by Avelink
(2.5 mi / 4.0 km) Serviced apartments.

Peri’s Hotel
(3.2 mi / 5.1 km) Budget hotel with airport shuttle.

Holiday Inn Athens Attica Av. Airport West by IHG
(4.4 mi / 7.1 km) Upscale hotel with airport shuttle.

Looking for more options? Browse the complete list of hotels near Athens Airport on Expedia.

Airport Shuttles: A few nearby airport hotels offer airport shuttle service. Check with the hotel for pick-up instructions, schedules and any reservation requirements.

Airport Lounges

Pay-per-use, Single Visit Passes & Lounge Memberships

Regardless of what class of service you are flying, there are lounges that you can enter by purchasing a lounge pass or through a lounge membership program.

Non-Schengen

Aegean Business Lounge – Location: Terminal 1, Airside, Non-Schengen Area, near Gate A15. Hours: 04:00 AM – 09:00 PM (subject to flight schedules). Showers: Yes (€10). Dedicated Rest Zone: Yes (Quiet area). Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Star Alliance Gold members • Star Alliance Business/First Class passengers on member airlines (Lufthansa, United) • Aegean Pass holders.

Goldair Handling Lounge – Location: Terminal 1, Airside, Non-Schengen Area, Level 2, opposite Gate A11. Hours: 06:00 AM – 08:00 PM. Showers: Yes. Dedicated Rest Zone: No. Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Pay at the door (€38-€49) • Lounge membership programs • Credit card programs (Diners Club, Mastercard Airport Experiences, American Express Platinum, Capital One Venture X) • Business/First Class passengers on select airlines.

Skyserv Melina Merkouri Lounge – Location: Terminal 1, Airside, Non-Schengen Area, near Gate A15. Hours: 06:00 AM – 10:00 PM. Showers: Yes. Dedicated Rest Zone: No. Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Pay at the door (€30) • Lounge membership programs • Credit card programs (Diners Club, Mastercard Airport Experiences, American Express Platinum) • oneworld Sapphire/Emerald members flying Iberia or Royal Air Maroc • Business/First Class passengers on oneworld airlines.

Skyserv Aristotle Onassis Lounge – Location: Terminal 1, Airside, Non-Schengen Area, near Gate A10. Hours: 06:00 AM – 10:00 PM. Showers: Yes. Dedicated Rest Zone: No. Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Pay at the door (€30) • Lounge membership programs • Credit card programs (Diners Club, Mastercard Airport Experiences, American Express Platinum) • SkyTeam Elite Plus Frequent Flyers • Business/First Class passengers on SkyTeam airlines.

Schengen

Aegean Business Lounge – Location: Terminal 1, Airside, Schengen Area, near Gate B13. Hours: 04:00 AM – 09:00 PM daily (subject to flight schedules; confirm via Aegean Airlines website). Showers: Yes (€10). Dedicated Rest Zone: No. Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Pay at the door (€35) • Aegean Business Class passengers • Star Alliance Gold members • Star Alliance Business/First Class passengers on member airlines.

Goldair Handling CIP Lounge – Location: Terminal 1, Airside, Schengen Area, Level 1, opposite Gate B13. Hours: 06:00 AM – 08:00 PM daily. Showers: No. Dedicated Rest Zone: No. Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Pay at the door (€38-€49) • Lounge membership programs • Credit card programs (Diners Club, Mastercard Airport Experiences, American Express Platinum, Capital One Venture X) • Business/First Class passengers on select airlines.

Extra-Schengen

Goldair Handling Lounge – Location: Level 2, Airside, Extra Schengen Area, after duty-free shops. Hours: 04:30 AM – 08:00 PM. Showers: Yes. Dedicated Rest Zone: Yes (Quiet Area). Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Pay at the door (€38-€49) • Lounge membership programs • Credit card programs (Diners Club, Mastercard Airport Experiences) • American Express Platinum, Capital One Venture X • Business/First Class passengers on select airlines (AirFrance, ITA Airways, KLM).

Swissport Executive Lounge – Location: Level 2, Airside, Extra Schengen Area, after duty-free shops. Hours: 04:30 AM – 08:00 PM. Showers: No. Dedicated Rest Zone: No. Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Pay at the door (€38-€49) • Lounge membership programs • Credit card programs (Diners Club, Mastercard Airport Experiences, American Express Platinum, Capital One Venture X) • SkyTeam Elite Plus Frequent Flyers • Business/First Class passengers on SkyTeam airlines.

Satellite Terminal

Goldair Handling x AIA Lounge – Location: Satellite Terminal Building, Level 2, Airside. Hours: 06:00 AM – 10:00 PM. Showers: Yes. Dedicated Rest Zone: No. Sleep Facilities: No. Pay at the door (€38-€49) • Lounge membership programs • Credit card programs (Diners Club, Mastercard Airport Experiences, American Express Platinum, Capital One Venture X) • Business/First Class passengers on select airlines.

Airline Lounges

You may have access to the lounge listed below if you are a First or Business Class traveller. For more information, check the airline’s website.

Schengen

Lufthansa Business Lounge – Location: Terminal 1, Airside, Schengen Area, opposite Gate B12. Hours: 04:30 AM – 08:00 PM. Showers: No. Dedicated Rest Zone: No. Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Star Alliance Gold members • Business/First Class passengers on Star Alliance airlines.

Food & Drinks

The following outlets open 24-hours: Artisan-Taf • Bistrot Attica Athens • Cultivos • Camden Food Co. • Eat Greek • Ergon Greek Cuisine • Everest • Levito • Mon Kooloor • Veneti Go!

For groceries and basic supplies, AB Vassilopoulos mini market is located on the Arrivals Level, landside, offering packaged foods, baked goods, and general essentials.

Drinking Water
Free water refill points have been reported in several airside locations, including Schengen, non-Schengen, and Satellite areas, though availability and exact placement may change.

Landside, drinking water is limited to restroom taps (Level 0) or bottled water purchases from cafés and shops. Tap water is potable, though some travellers prefer bottled water. If this is incorrect, click here to update the guide.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

Care4Bag offers luggage storage. Location: T1, Arrivals Level, Landside. Rates: €5-10 per item/day. Hours: 24 hours.

Mobile Charging

Charging stations are available in several airside areas, including Schengen, non-Schengen, and Satellite gates, as well as landside near the arrivals level. Power outlets can be limited, especially overnight. Travellers are advised to carry adapters and power banks.

Showers

Some lounges also offer shower facilities, either included with entry or available to eligible passengers, depending on lounge access rules.

WiFi / Internet

Free unlimited WiFi is available. Connect to the “ATH Free Wi-Fi” network. Internet kiosks are also available throughout the terminal, offering a short free session, after which usage becomes coin-operated.

More Airport Information

More Airport Services and Facilities

ATMs / Cash Machines – Need cash? ATMs are available landside and airside. Fees may apply, so check your bank’s withdrawal limits and international fees before travelling.
Baby Care Facilities – Facilities for feeding and changing babies are available in designated baby care rooms and some restrooms throughout the terminals, both landside and airside.
Banking Services – Alpha Bank operates a full-service branch on the Arrivals Level, landside, with limited hours.
Currency Exchange – ONExchange provides foreign currency exchange services in multiple landside and airside locations and is reported to operate 24 hours.
Duty-Free & Shopping – Duty-free shops are located airside in both Schengen and non-Schengen departures. Additional retail shops are available throughout the terminal, with many open late or overnight.
Luggage Wrapping – Protective luggage wrapping is available through Care4Bag on the Arrivals Level, landside.
Medical Services – First aid services are available 24 hours. Contact an Information Desk for assistance if needed.
Pharmacy – A pharmacy is located on the Arrivals Level, landside, and operates extended daily hours.
Post Office – The airport’s post office, operated by ELTA Hellenic Post, is located on the Arrivals Level, landside, with limited daily hours.
Salon Services – Fairy Nails offers basic nail and beauty services on the Departures Level, landside.
SIM Cards – A reader let us know, “there was a stand selling SIM cards at the baggage reclaim area (in the main terminal, I think). Working hours or rates are not known to me.” (October 2023)

Things To Do On A Layover

Art in the Airport – Rotating art displays can be found throughout the terminals. The airport also hosts cultural events, including painting and photography exhibitions, book presentations and several cultural collaborations.

Museum – History is on display through permanent exhibitions from the Acropolis Museum (Main Terminal), the Eleftherios Venizelos Permanent Exhibition featuring Greek aviation history (Main Terminal – Departures Level) and Exhibition of Archaeological Findings (Main Terminal – Departures Level, Entrance 3 and front entrances. 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily).

Layover Sightseeing

Do you want to make the most of your stopover or long layover by leaving the airport to do some sightseeing? Check out our Athens Airport Layover Sightseeing guide.

Airlines

Athens International Airport is served by the following airlines: Aegean Airlines • Aer Lingus • Air Baltic • Air Canada • Air China • Air France • Air Mediterranean • Air Serbia • Air Transat • American Airlines • Arkia Israeli Airlines • Austrian Airlines • Bluebird Airways • British Airways • Brussels Airlines • Bulgaria Air • Condor • Croatia Airlines • Cyprus Airways • Delta • EasyJet • Egyptair • El Al Israel Airlines • Emirates • Ethiopian Airlines • Etihad Airways • Eurowings • Gulf Air • Iberia • Israir • Ita Airways • Jet2 • KLM • Lufthansa • MEA • Norwegian Air Shuttle • Olympic • Pegasus Airlines • Qatar Airways • Royal Jordanian • Ryanair • Saudi Arabian Airlines • Scandinavian Airlines • Scoot • Sky Express • Swiss • TAROM • Transavia • Turkish Airlines • Tus Airways • United Airlines • Volotea • Vueling • Wizz Air.

Airport Transportation: Getting To/From The Airport

Bus

ATH Airport is very well connected with four city bus lines connecting the airport with Athens and Piraeus. For schedules, fares and bus stops, go to the OASA website. Buses depart from the Arrivals level, between exits 4 and 5. Five regional buses also stop at the airport for passengers looking to travel to surrounding cities. To find out more information, visit the KTEL website. Buses depart at the Arrivals level, between exits 2 and 3.

Car Rentals

Car hire is available from several providers within the airport. Companies include Avance • Avis • Enterprise • Europcar • Hertz • Sixt. Location: Arrivals Level.

Compare car rental prices on Expedia

Hotel Shuttles

See Airport Hotels above.

Port Access

If your travels include taking a ferry, you can connect from the airport via Metro Line 3 (then at Monastiraki transfer to Metro Line 1) with a total journey time of 60 minutes. Alternatively, the bus Route X96 Piraeus will also provide access to the port of Piraeus.

Ride Sharing

Uber Taxi is available throughout Greece. A ride to the city centre will cost you from €40 to €45.

Taxi

Metered taxis are readily available at the taxi stand located on the Arrivals Level, exit 3. At the time of this update, one-way flat fares between the airport and Athens city centre inner ring, in either direction, cost € 40 (from 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM) or € 55 (from 12:00 AM – 5:00 AM).

Train

ATH Airport is connected to the metro system via Metro Line 3 (Blue), and for longer-distance trains, the airport is served via the Athens Suburban Railways. For fares, routes and schedules, visit either the Urban Rail Transport website (for metro connections) or the trainOSE website for longer-distance options.

Last updated: 2026-01-13

This guide is for informational purposes only to assist with your planning. All information, including rates and hours, is subject to change at any time without notice. The information in this airport guide is based on information collected and/or received from the airports, lounges, hotels, transportation providers, and their websites. We are not representatives of any of the above-mentioned service providers. To report errors or to add/update any items mentioned in the guide: update the airport guide or write a review.