Passing through Athen Helenikon Airport? A layover in Athens is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 60 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at HEW:
First, verify that you can enter Greece — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Metro Line 3 takes about 60 minutes into Athens, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — EUR is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Get Into Athens
You have two main options for getting from Athen Helenikon Airport into town:
- Metro Line 3: About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 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.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Athens, we’d suggest Acropolis of Athens and Syntagma Square & Parliament. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside HEW, you can spend time at Aegean Business Lounge or try Sofitel Athens Airport Spa & Fitness. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
- In the city: O Thanasis and Tzitzikas kai o Mermigas are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Athens.
- At the airport: Kir-Yianni Wine Bar & Bistro and Flocafe Espresso Room will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Athens might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$11 USD
- A meal: ~$22 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$43 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Athens.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At HEW, you’ll find bag storage at Care4bag luggage storage is located on the Departures level, opposite Exit 2, near the check-in area..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at HEW, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Athens 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.
Need a Nap? Options at HEW
Long overnight layover? Your options at HEW include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Greece also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Athens doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from HEW, 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.