Things to Do During a Layover at Athens Airport

Layovers don’t always have to be boring or wasted time. Athens International Airport (ATH) offers travelers a surprising range of ways to relax, explore, or even discover a little piece of Greece before the next flight. Whether your stopover is short or long, you can make it both pleasant and productive.

Do You Have a Short Layover at ATH Airport?

Short layovers are ideal for exploring the airport itself. Modern, efficient, and full of amenities, Athens Airport can easily keep you entertained. Here are some great ideas:

  1. Do Your Homework about the Airport: Get familiar with ATH’s facilities, shops, and lounges ahead of time so you can plan your time efficiently. Always check your gate first before exploring.
  2. Eat, Drink, and Shop: The airport offers an impressive variety of restaurants, cafés, and fast-food outlets, along with numerous shops and Duty-Free stores. Take the chance to sample Greek delicacies or buy local souvenirs.
  3. Tie Up Loose Ends: Use the free Wi-Fi (60-minute sessions, easily renewable) to catch up on work, emails, or online meetings.
  4. Read a Book: Find a quiet spot, grab a coffee, and finally start that book you’ve been meaning to read.
  5. Plan the Next Part of Your Trip: Make a checklist, organize itineraries, or research attractions before reaching your next destination.
  6. Treat Yourself: Pamper yourself with a manicure, massage, or haircut at one of the airport’s wellness services.
  7. Enjoy Culture: Explore the Acropolis Exhibition featuring authentic artifacts discovered near the airport during construction, or visit the El. Venizelos exhibition and other rotating art displays.
  8. Enjoy Family Time: If traveling with children, visit the airport playground near the El. Venizelos Exhibition, suitable for kids aged 2.5–9 years old.
  9. Relax in a Lounge: Check which airport lounges accept pay-per-use entry and enjoy quiet comfort, snacks, drinks, and Wi-Fi.
  10. Visit the Sofitel Hotel: Located just 50m from the terminal, Sofitel Athens Airport Hotel offers excellent dining, a rooftop bar with runway views, and a spa.
  11. Catch Some Sleep: If you’re on a budget, look for seating areas without armrests or quiet corners in the terminal for a quick nap.

Long Layovers are Ideal to Meet Athens

If your layover lasts 7–9 hours or more, you can easily explore parts of Athens. The city center is about 40 minutes by metro or taxi from the airport. Here’s how to make the most of it:

The Sightseeing Tour

Start from Syntagma Square, the heart of Athens and home to the Greek Parliament. Walk to Ermou Street for shopping, visit the Athens Cathedral, and continue to Monastiraki and Plaka — the city’s oldest neighborhoods, filled with cafés, tavernas, and markets. Along the way, don’t miss the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

The Majestic Acropolis

The Acropolis and its crown jewel, the Parthenon, are Athens’ most famous landmarks. Climbing to the top requires time and stamina, but the experience is unforgettable. On your way, you’ll see other ancient sites such as the Erechtheion and the Theater of Dionysus. End your visit at the Acropolis Museum, home to priceless sculptures and artifacts.

Tip: Short on time? Visit Filopappou Hill nearby for stunning panoramic views of the Acropolis.

The Museum Options

If you prefer museums, Athens won’t disappoint. Visit the National Archaeological Museum for world-class antiquities, the Museum of Cycladic Art for elegant marble figurines, or the Benaki Museum for Greek art and history.

Choose a Tour

Guided private or group tours are perfect for layovers, letting you see major landmarks efficiently. Some tours even include a visit to Cape Sounion (about 50km away), home to the majestic Temple of Poseidon overlooking the Aegean Sea.

Visit the Attica Zoological Park

Just 10 minutes from the airport, the Attica Zoological Park houses over 2,000 animals and is an excellent family-friendly choice.

Shopping at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet

Located 15 minutes from ATH, McArthurGlen Athens features designer brands at outlet prices, dining areas, and a children’s playground — perfect for a quick shopping break before your flight.

Wine Tasting Near the Airport

If you’re a wine lover, explore nearby wineries such as Georga’s Family Estate, Gikas Winery, or Papagiannakos Domain — all within 20 minutes’ drive. Just remember to enjoy responsibly and keep track of the time!

Go for a Swim!

When the weather is warm, nothing beats a quick swim. Several beaches are close to the airport — Porto Rafti (18 minutes away), Kokkino Limanaki in Rafina (23 minutes), Kakia Thalassa (24 minutes), Vouliagmeni (35 minutes), and Kape Beach (42 minutes). Even if you skip the swim, enjoy the sea view and fresh seafood at a local seaside taverna.