How to make the most of your layover in Athens

Athens is a captivating city with a mix of ancient history and modern energy. Just a short metro ride from the airport, you’ll find landmarks like the Acropolis and Parthenon, icons of ancient Greece with awe-inspiring views. With the first modern Olympic Games under its belt and much history and character, the city is a cultural powerhouse.

Athens is also known for its neighborhoods full of energy and life, such as Plaka and Monastiraki. You can stroll through cute streets, discover artisan shops, and taste authentic Greek cuisine there. It's an ideal city for soaking up an unusual mix of the old and the new.

No matter what you’re into history, food, or busy squares filled with music and cafes, Athens has something for every traveler, even in just a few hours. A solo adventure-seeker, a family vacationer, an entrepreneur, or a digital nomad; you can find tourist attractions right for you!

Things to keep in mind before leaving the airport

We're here to help you keep it together while you try to figure out your Athens airport layover. Things can get confusing when they're not structured and simplified, so you can count on our help. Keep reading to find out key things to keep in mind before you decide to leave the airport.

Visa requirements in Athens

If you're from the Schengen area, you don't need a visa to exit Athens airport. If you're not, you'll have to apply for a visa. It gets you 90 days inside the country. This is only within a 180-day period starting from the approval date of your visa. You can go to the IATA Travel Centre website for more info.

Minimum layover times in Athens

1. In-airport short layover:
2. Domestic flights: 45 minutes
   Waiting for connecting flights at Athens International Airport doesn't take too long if you're from the Schengen area and not leaving it. Gates A1-A23 & B1-B31 are in the Main Terminal Building, while gates C15-C40 are in the Satelite Terminal Building.
3. International flights: 1.5 hrs
   Customs allows tobacco or alcohol products ONLY for personal use in reasonable amounts, not for resale. Plus, you should always leave time for security checks and customs declarations. Passport control is a must if you aren't from a Schengen area country. There are two separate lanes for EU and non-EU passport holders. You can use the automatic checkpoints if you have an e-passport with biometric data. Also, you can use the Fast Lane if you have a privilege card from airlines that offer access.
4. In-airport long layover: 4 hrs
   ATH Airport has a lot of things to see if you're waiting for your next flight. It offers a guided 2.5-hour tour to students. You can learn about airport operations, visit the airport's museum and cultural exhibitions, and see the Panther fire trucks. There are lounges near departure areas, shops for clothes, gifts, and tech, but also restaurants and cafes. The restaurants have everything from vegetarian to traditional Greek dishes. There's also the Exhibition Centre where they rotate exhibitions and conferences. Baby care rooms are also available for privacy.
5. Out-of-airport layover: 6 hrs
   Want a break from the airport? Athens is a fantastic city that's worth at least a quick visit. The M3 metro will take you to and from the city center in less than an hour. It’s ideal when you want to explore Athens and get some fresh air. Athens Spotlighted offers its users a free card when they register, which unlocks automatic benefits and discounts for attractions around the city.

What to do in Athens during a layover

Going on a business trip? A solo adventure? A family vacation? Doesn't matter, Bounce is here to help you no matter what! Dump your extra stuff with a Bounce partner and explore all that Athens has to offer. Find us near the airport and experience Athens without the baggage! You probably have stuff meant for days or weeks weighing you down and holding you back.

Glance at our list of things you can do in Athens hands-free and weightless!

Morning layover in Athens

Just have the morning to explore Athens? No problem! Here are some places to visit and eat during the morning hours of your layover:

1. Start with an early visit to the Acropolis where you can see the Parthenon, Erechteion, and sweeping views of Athens.
2. The Acropolis Museum is just a short hike away,  and you can see a mix of ancient and modern architecture, artifacts, and exhibits there.
3. Visit the Plaka, the oldest Athens neighborhood with its cute narrow streets, local shops, and historical architecture.
4. Stop by Yiasemi, one of the best low-key Greek restaurants serving Greek pastries and yogurt with honey.

Afternoon layover in Athens

If you're staying during those hot afternoon hours, hide inside some of these cool spots:

1. The National Archaeological Museum, a treasure trove of Greek history, has artifacts from ancient Greece like sculptures, pottery, and jewelry.
2. Monastiraki Flea Market is the right spot to stroll through and browse for souvenirs, antiques, and local crafts.
3. The Oineas Restaurant near Monastiraki is a spot where you can grab some grub, including traditional Greek dishes like moussaka and stuffed peppers.
4. Also, don’t forget to try some delicious souvlaki wraps at Kostas.

Evening layover in Athens

Got some more time? The evenings in Athens are just as good as the afternoons. Take a look at more must-visit places if you have more than eight hours for your layover:

1. If a stunning sunset is what you're after, Lycabettus Hill is the place to be. Take a traditional walking tour of the hill or take a cable car to the top.
2. You should definitely visit Syntagma Square and see the Change of the Guard, which happens every hour.
3. Stop by Kafeneio in the Kolonaki area, with traditional Greek mezes, grilled meats, and fresh salads.
4. Check out Ta Karamanlidika tou Fani for local cheese and cured meat.

Overnight layover in Athens

If you're staying the night in Athens, here are some late-night activities for you to enjoy and hotels you can stay at:

1. For an exciting nightlife vibe, you should check out Psiri Neighbourhood. It has bars, live music venues, and clubs.
2. The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC) houses the Greek National Opera and National Library. It has illuminated paths and fountains, which can be an ideal op for a romantic walk.
3. Book a room at the Electra Metropolis Athens Hotel for a luxurious vibe and rooftop views.
4. Sleep in at The Athens Gate Hotel which is close to the city center, and has views of historic sites.

Tips to make the most out of your time in Athens

We've got you covered with some tips about Athens and Greece so you're not in the dark about any key info:

• The weekend in Athens is on Saturday and Sunday.
• Greek is the official language, but English is also widely spoken.
• Euros are used in Greece and can be exchanged anywhere in and around the airport.
• Pickpocketing is a common thing in areas where tourists tend to gather in Athens.
• You can expect to spend €10-€20 on restaurants and attractions. Plus, transport is cheap at just over a euro for a metro ticket.

The most valuable tip: go baggage-free! Find a Bounce partner near the airport before you leave, and explore the city without your laptop, diapers, or snowsuit. Whatever the occasion and with whoever you're traveling with, you can always count on Bounce to take care of your baggage while you enjoy your stay in Athens!