A layover in Athens is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Athens Ben Epps Airport sits just 45 minutes from the city center by Athens Transit Bus, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of AHN:
- Can you legally enter United States? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 45-minute journey each way by Athens Transit Bus, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Getting to Athens from the Airport
From AHN, the Athens Transit Bus gets you to Athens in around 45 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 65 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Athens Transit Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Things to Do During Your Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Athens, two standouts are:
- University of Georgia Campus (North Campus) — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Athens.
- Downtown Athens Historic District — History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside AHN — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Athens-Clarke County Aviation Museum
- Terminal Area Relaxation
Eating Well on a Athens Layover
- In the city: Mama’s Boy and The Grill are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Athens.
- At the airport: The Flight Line Cafe & Grill and Vending Machines will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Athens layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$9 |
| Meal | ~$18 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$37 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at AHN may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Athens’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at AHN for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Athens or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Need a Nap? Options at AHN
Long overnight layover? Your options at AHN include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in United States also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Athens with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Athens may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.