list of airports in Greece

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:## Exploring the Skies: A Comprehensive Guide to Airports in Greece

Greece, a land of ancient history, stunning islands, and vibrant culture, welcomes millions of visitors each year. Getting around this diverse country is made easier by its extensive network of airports, serving both domestic and international destinations. Whether you’re planning a mainland adventure or island hopping, understanding the Greek airport system is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable trip. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the airports in Greece, helping you navigate your travel plans with confidence.

#ff6900 Major International Airports

Greece boasts several international airports capable of handling large volumes of traffic and offering connections to destinations worldwide. These are typically the first points of entry for most travelers.

  • Athens International Airport (ATH) "Eleftherios Venizelos": By far the busiest airport in Greece, Athens International serves as the primary hub for Aegean Airlines and Sky Express. It offers a vast array of international flights, excellent facilities, and convenient transport links to Athens city center and the wider region.

  • Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) "Makedonia": The second busiest airport, Thessaloniki, is a key gateway to Northern Greece. It connects to numerous European cities and serves as a base for exploring the historical sites and vibrant culture of Macedonia.

  • Heraklion International Airport (HER) "Nikos Kazantzakis": Located on the island of Crete, Heraklion Airport is a major hub for tourism, particularly during the summer months. It handles a significant number of international charter flights and provides access to the eastern part of Crete.

  • Chania International Airport (CHQ) "Daskalogiannis": Also on Crete, Chania Airport primarily serves the western part of the island. It’s known for its scenic location and is a popular choice for visitors seeking a more relaxed arrival experience.

  • Rhodes International Airport (RHO) "Diagoras": Serving the Dodecanese island of Rhodes, this airport is a popular entry point for tourists visiting the island’s historical sites, beaches, and resorts.

  • Kos International Airport (KGS) "Hippocrates": Located on the island of Kos, this airport is a key destination for package holidays and independent travelers alike, offering access to the island’s beautiful coastline and ancient ruins.

#ff6900 Regional Airports: Your Island Hopping Hubs

Beyond the major international airports, Greece has a network of regional airports that are essential for exploring the numerous islands. These airports generally handle smaller aircraft and primarily operate domestic and seasonal international flights.

Here’s a table listing many of the airports in Greece, categorized by region:

Region Airport Code Airport Name Island/City Served
Cyclades JTR Santorini (Thira) Santorini
MYK Mykonos Mykonos
NXS Naxos Naxos
SYROS Syros Syros
MLOS Milos Milos
PAR Paros Paros
AST Astypalaia Astypalaia
Dodecanese KAL Kalymnos Kalymnos
LER Leros Leros
KSY Kastellorizo (Megisti) Kastellorizo
RVN Samos Samos
Ionian Islands CFU Corfu Corfu
PVK Preveza/Lefkada Preveza/Lefkada
ZTH Zakynthos Zakynthos
EFL Kefalonia Kefalonia
Sporades VOL Volos Volos
SKY Skiathos Skiathos
Crete JCH Ioannina Ioannina
Other Mainland KVA Kavala Kavala
PDH Nea Anchialos Volos
Smaller Islands IKIA Ikaria Ikaria
TNL Tinos Tinos
GYR Syros Syros
LSI Limnos Limnos
PYR Syros Syros
KTE Karpathos Karpathos

Note: This is not an exhaustive list, but includes the most commonly used airports.

#ff6900 Getting To and From the Airports

Transportation options vary depending on the airport. Here’s a general overview:

  • Athens & Thessaloniki: Both airports have well-connected metro lines, express buses, taxis, and car rental services.

  • Crete (Heraklion & Chania): Buses, taxis, and car rentals are readily available.

  • Rhodes & Kos: Buses and taxis are the most common options.

  • Smaller Island Airports: Taxis and pre-booked transfers are usually the primary means of transport. Buses may operate on a limited schedule.

It’s advisable to pre-book transfers, especially during peak season, to ensure a hassle-free journey.

#ff6900 Tips for Traveling Through Greek Airports

  • Peak Season: Expect larger crowds and longer queues during the summer months (June-August). Arrive at the airport with ample time.

  • Domestic Flights: Even for domestic flights, it’s recommended to arrive at least 90 minutes before departure.

  • Baggage Allowance: Check your airline’s baggage allowance policies before traveling.

  • Currency: The currency in Greece is the Euro (€).

  • Language: Greek is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and at airports.

#ff6900 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Which is the largest airport in Greece?
A1: Athens International Airport (ATH) is the largest and busiest airport in Greece.

Q2: Is it easy to find connecting flights from Greek airports?
A2: Yes, especially from Athens and Thessaloniki, which offer numerous connections to international destinations.

Q3: What’s the best way to get from Heraklion Airport to Heraklion city center?
A3: A local bus is the most affordable option, while taxis are readily available and offer a faster, more direct route.

Q4: Do I need my passport for domestic flights within Greece?
A4: While not always strictly enforced, it’s highly recommended to carry your passport or national ID card for all flights within Greece.

Q5: Are there many car rental options at Greek airports?
A5: Yes, all major international car rental companies have a presence at the larger Greek airports.

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