Athens is one of the most beautiful and interesting European capitals. The birthplace of democracy is not only famous for its cultural and historical heritage but is also home to beautiful parks, tucked-away tavernas and lively nightlife. Athens is also a stop-over city for those who want to travel to the beautiful Greek islands (either by plane or ferry).

Athens is served by Athens Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, opened in 2001. The new airport was specially built for the Olympics and now is one of the most effective European airports. It is located 27 km / 17 miles from the city center but the public transport offers quick and easy link to the heart of the Greek capital. The airport is a major hub for the domestic carries: Aegean Airlines and Olympic Airlines. Out of the European low-cost carriers, easyJet operates flights on this airport. The airlines offering direct flights from/to the UK into Athens include: easyJet (from London), Aegean Airlines (from London), Olympic Airlines (to London) and British Airways (from London). Indirect flights to/from other British cities are also available. A complete list of airlines (alphabetically ordered) which fly into Athens' airport can be found here.

You probably don't plan to spend too much time at the airport in the first place, but should you need to find the currency exchange or internet services, hereis a list with all services and facilities available at the airport.

To get from the airport to the city center there are several means of public transport available, including the bus and metro. Unless the hotel offers a shuttle to get you to/from the airport, the metro might be the most convenient choice. You can read about all the options here. Should you desire to have your own automobile while visiting Athens, you can find all the car hire agencies operating at the airport here.

Have a lovely time in Athens and for more information about traveling to this charming city, see our WhyGo Greece travel guide.