Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Athens gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from ATO to the city takes roughly 30 minutes by Taxi/Ride-share, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Before You Step Outside ATO
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at ATO:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi/Ride-share takes about 30 minutes into Athens, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — USD is the currency here. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
What’s Worth Seeing in Athens
If you head into Athens, here are two things worth checking out:
Ohio University Campus Exploration is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Athens.
Uptown Athens / Court Street Stroll is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside ATO, you can spend time at General Aviation Observation Area or try Pilot’s Waiting Area / Lounge. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in Athens, local travelers recommend Casa Nueva Restaurant & Cantina. If you have time for a second stop, Bagel Street Deli is another popular pick.
Back at ATO, Vending Machine Corner is the go-to. Self-Serve Snack & Coffee Station rounds out your in-terminal options.
Getting to Athens from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from Ohio University Snyder Field into town:
- Taxi/Ride-share: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How Much Money You’ll Need
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Athens:
Transport to the city and back runs about $8 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $15 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $33 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Athens, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at ATO aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Athens itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and ATO is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Athens and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, ATO has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Athens count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave ATO. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.