Athens International Airport "Eleftherios Venizelos" (ATH) handles over 30 million passengers a year. Whether it's your first time or your tenth, these tips will make your arrival smooth and stress-free.
1 Customs & Immigration Are Fast
If you're arriving from within the EU/Schengen zone, there are no border checks. Non-EU passengers typically clear immigration in 15-30 minutes. Have your passport ready — that's all you need.
2 Currency Is Euro (€)
Greece uses the Euro. ATMs are everywhere in the arrivals hall, but avoid the currency exchange desks — their rates are terrible. Your bank card will work at any ATM with better rates.
3 Get a SIM Card in Arrivals
Vodafone and Cosmote have shops right in the arrivals area. A tourist SIM with 10GB of data costs about €10-15. Worth it for maps, translation, and staying connected.
4 Transport Options (And What to Choose)
- Metro: €9, runs every 30 min, takes 45 min to Syntagma. Stops at midnight.
- Bus X95: €6, runs 24/7 to Syntagma Square. Takes 60-90 min depending on traffic.
- Taxi: Flat rate €40 (day) / €55 (night 00:00-05:00) to city center. Find them outside arrivals.
- Private transfer: From €59, Mercedes V-Class, meet & greet at arrivals, fixed price to any destination. Book here.
5 The Airport Is 33km from the City
Athens Airport is located in Spata, about 33km east of the city center. In good traffic, the drive takes 35-40 minutes. During rush hour (7-9am, 5-8pm), it can take 60-90 minutes. Plan accordingly.
6 Tipping Is Appreciated but Not Mandatory
Greeks don't expect American-style tips. Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is generous. For taxi drivers, rounding up to the nearest euro is normal.
7 Free WiFi Is Available
The airport offers free WiFi (ATH Free WiFi). It's decent for checking emails and maps, but don't count on it for video calls.
8 Luggage Carts Are Free
Unlike many European airports, luggage carts at Athens Airport are free. Grab one before you exit the baggage claim area.
9 Book Your Return Transfer in Advance
Don't wait until your last day to figure out how to get back to the airport. Book your return transfer when you book your arrival — you'll get a better price and zero stress on departure day.
10 Your Hotel Is Probably Closer Than You Think
Most tourist hotels in Athens are in Plaka, Syntagma, Monastiraki, or Kolonaki — all within 30-40 minutes of the airport by car. A private transfer drops you right at the door, luggage and all.