London to Athens flights

Northern France and the Alps pass below on the direct flight to Athens, which takes about 3 hours and 55 minutes from London. British Airways and Aegean offer full service, while Ryanair and Wizzair cover the low-cost end. Cheap flights from London to Athens start at £34. Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton and Stansted all serve it.

Flights to Athens depart from four London airports:

• London Heathrow (LHR): 25km from the city centre, reached by the Heathrow Express in 15 minutes, the Piccadilly line in 50 minutes or the Elizabeth line
• London Gatwick (LGW): 47km from the city centre, reached by the Gatwick Express in 30 minutes
• London Stansted (STN): mostly with low-cost airlines, reached by the Stansted Express or Terravision
• London Luton (LTN): mostly with low-cost airlines

At Heathrow, Aegean Airlines flies from Terminal 2 and British Airways from Terminal 5.

Flights land at Athens International Airport (ATH), where you can reach the city centre via Underground Line 3 in approximately 50 minutes. Alternatively, the X95 bus runs to Syntagma Square, taking around 1 hour and 15 minutes. For a faster transfer, a taxi or private hire vehicle can reach central districts in about 30 minutes from the designated pick-up points.

To simplify your travel, consider using the Ath.ena card for all public transport services. The airport terminal features 24-hour restaurants, banking services, and dedicated smoking rooms in the departures area. Free Wi-Fi is available for all passengers throughout the facility.

Ancient history is everywhere in Athens. Visit the Acropolis and the old streets of Plaka, or head up Likavitos Hill for a view across the city. For a local feel, browse the Monastiraki Flea Market for traditional goods.

April and May are great months to visit Athens for mild weather. July and August are hot but host the Epidaurus Festival, and November brings some late autumn sunshine.