Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Alexandroupolis gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from AXD to the city takes roughly 60 minutes by Local Bus, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Before You Step Outside AXD
Three things to verify before you walk out of AXD:
- Can you legally enter Greece? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-minute journey each way by Local Bus, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Alexandroupolis, here are two things worth checking out:
Alexandroupolis Lighthouse (Faro) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Alexandroupolis Coastal Promenade is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at AXD, check out Hellenic Duty-Free Shops or Dimokritos Airport Cafe & Bar to keep yourself occupied.
Getting to Alexandroupolis from the Airport
From AXD, the Local Bus gets you to Alexandroupolis in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Local Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Loukoulos and Gialos Seafood Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Alexandroupolis.
- At the airport: Dimokritos Airport Cafe – Coffee & Bakery and Dimokritos Airport Cafe – Snacks & Drinks will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
What to Budget for Your Alexandroupolis Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Alexandroupolis:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at AXD, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Alexandroupolis itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Greece that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Bag Storage Near AXD
Luggage storage options at AXD can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Alexandroupolis for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Sleep & Lounge Options at AXD
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at AXD.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Alexandroupolis doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from AXD, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.