Terminals at Athens Airport: Complete Guide for Tourists

Understanding the terminals at Athens Airport is one of the easiest ways to reduce stress when traveling to Greece. Whether you’re arriving for a vacation or departing after exploring the islands, knowing the layout of Athens Airport helps you move faster, avoid confusion, and reach your gate on time.

Athens International Airport is modern, compact, and easy to navigate. However, many tourists are surprised to learn that there are two terminal areas connected together. This guide explains how they work, where your flight may depart, and how to move between them efficiently.

Overview of terminals at Athens airport

Athens Airport operates with: 

• One main terminal building
• One satellite terminal connected underground
• Separate areas for Schengen and non-Schengen flights
• All arrivals handled inside the main terminal

Unlike larger European hubs, the terminals at Athens Airport are not separate buildings requiring transport. Everything is connected by indoor walking corridors, making transfers straightforward.

For tourists, this means: 

• No need to change buildings  
• No external transport between terminals  
• Simple wayfinding with clear signage  
• Short walking distances compared to major airports 

How many terminals are at athens airport?

Athens International Airport has two terminal sections that operate as one unified airport. 

Main terminal building

The main terminal is where most travelers will spend their time. It includes: 

• Check-in counters  
• Security screening  
• Passport control  
• Main departure gates  
• Arrivals hall  
• Baggage claim  
• Shops and services  

The main terminal is divided into: 

• Hall A – non-Schengen flights
• Hall B – Schengen flights

Most European flights depart from Hall B, while international long-haul departures typically use Hall A. 

Satellite terminal

The satellite terminal is connected to the main terminal via an underground walkway. It is not a separate airport building. 

This terminal is used: 

• During busy travel periods
• For selected Schengen flights
• When additional gates are required
• For operational flexibility

Important details for tourists: 

• Walking time: about 10–15 minutes  
• No shuttle required  
• Fully indoor connection  
• Clearly signposted from departures  

If your gate is in the satellite terminal, simply follow signs after security. 

Layout of athens airport terminals explained

Understanding the layout of Athens Airport makes navigation much easier. 

Departures level

The departures area includes: 

• Airline check-in desks  
• Self check-in kiosks  
• Bag drop counters  
• Security screening  
• Passport control (when required)  

After security, travelers enter the airside zone where gates split into: 

• Schengen gates (B area)  
• Non-Schengen gates (A area)  
• Satellite terminal gates  

Everything is well organized, and walking distances remain manageable. 

Gates and concourses

Athens Airport uses a clear gate system: 

• A gates – non-Schengen departures
• B gates – Schengen departures
• Satellite gates – additional Schengen gates
• Your boarding pass will indicate the gate area. 

Moving between terminals at athens airport

The terminals at Athens Airport are connected by an underground pedestrian corridor.

Key facts: 

• Walking time: 10–15 minutes  
• Moving walkways available  
• Fully accessible for luggage  
• No passport control between terminals  
• Clear signage throughout  

When traveling from the main terminal to the satellite terminal: 

• Pass security  
• Follow “Satellite Terminal” signs  
• Use underground walkway  
• Arrive directly at gate area  

Tourists should allow extra time if their flight departs from the satellite terminal, especially during peak summer season. 

Door-to-door transfers from Athens airport terminals

After navigating the terminals at Athens Airport, many tourists prefer a pre-booked door-to-door transfer to avoid confusion. 

Services like Terravision provide: 

• Pickup inside arrivals hall  
• Professional driver meeting point  
• Direct hotel transfer  
• No navigation stress  
• Fixed pricing  

This option is especially helpful if: 

• Arriving late at night  
• Traveling with luggage  
• Visiting Athens for the first time  
• Traveling with family  

The pickup point is typically inside the main terminal arrivals area, making the transition from flight to accommodation seamless. 

FAQ

Does Athens Airport have multiple terminals?

Yes. Athens Airport has a main terminal and a satellite terminal connected by an underground walkway. 

How long does it take to reach the satellite terminal?

Walking time is usually 10 to 15 minutes from the main departures area.