Athens International Airport Walk | October 2023

Athens International Airport, officially named “El. Venizelos” and shortly known as AIA, is the biggest and most widely-known airport in Greece. Moreover, it is the most occupied aviation hub in the Balkans and is listed among the busiest European airports. Located 33km/20.5 miles away from Athens city center, in the Spata area, Athens Airport is the “home” of Aegean Airlines and a focus airport for some smaller, mostly budget air carriers.
El. Venizelos opened its doors in 2001, replacing the old Ellinikon International Airport. It was named after the great Greek politician and prime minister, who had a huge impact on the modern history of Greece. Its construction was put into place occasioned by the upcoming 2004 Olympic Games. Verily, the new airport utterly served the risen passenger needs during that period of time. Still, the passenger traffic continued increasing from that moment on. Hence, nowadays, millions of travelers fly from or to ATH Airport, mainly during the high tourist season (the summer months). As a matter of fact, in 2022, Athens Airport welcomed more than 22.7 million tourists, almost springing back to its pro-covid levels.
The airport of the Greek capital offers its passengers a wide range of amenities as well as quick and effective services. Apart from the anticipated services, El. Venizelos houses many cultural attractions. Thus, it hosts the Acropolis Exhibition, a small but fascinating museum with exhibits found in the nearby area during the airport’s construction, and an exhibition dedicated to El. Venizelos, while various art collections and events are displayed and organized on its premises from time to time. Overall, Athens Airport is a modern, multi-awarded, and passenger-friendly aviation hub.