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Soaking Up the Sun: A Comprehensive Guide to Airlines Flying to Greece

Dreaming of turquoise waters, ancient ruins, and mouthwatering gyros? Your Greek escape starts with finding the right airline. The good news is, Greece, a perennial favorite for travelers, is well-connected to the world. The answer to “Which airlines fly to Greece?” is a resounding many! From budget-friendly carriers to luxurious international giants, you’ll find a wealth of options to suit your travel style and budget. The specific airlines serving Greece fluctuate seasonally, but here’s a breakdown of some of the most prominent players you can typically expect to see gracing Greek skies:

Direct Flights & Major Carriers:

Aegean Airlines: Greece’s flag carrier, Aegean, boasts an extensive network connecting Athens and other Greek cities to destinations across Europe and beyond. They offer a solid reputation for service and frequently feature competitive fares.
Olympic Air: A subsidiary of Aegean Airlines, Olympic Air focuses primarily on domestic routes within Greece, making island hopping a breeze.
Delta Air Lines: Connecting the United States directly to Athens, Delta provides a convenient option for North American travelers looking to skip European layovers.
United Airlines: Similar to Delta, United also offers direct flights from various US hubs to Athens, offering more choices for American travelers.
American Airlines: Rounding out the major US carriers, American Airlines also operates direct flights to Greece, particularly during peak season.
Emirates: For those looking for a touch of luxury and potentially connecting onward to Asia or Australia, Emirates offers flights to Athens with connections through Dubai.
Qatar Airways: Similar to Emirates, Qatar Airways provides flights to Athens via Doha, offering another option for luxury and global connectivity.
British Airways: A classic choice for UK travelers, British Airways offers frequent flights from London to Athens and other Greek destinations.
Air France: Connecting Paris to various Greek cities, Air France provides convenient access for travelers throughout Europe and beyond.
KLM: Flying from Amsterdam, KLM offers another excellent option for European connectivity to Greece.
Lufthansa: Germany’s Lufthansa provides numerous flights to Greece from various German cities, catering to a wide range of travelers.

Budget-Friendly Options:

Ryanair: This Irish low-cost carrier is a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers, offering numerous routes to various Greek airports, often at incredibly competitive prices. Be mindful of extra fees for luggage and seat selection.
easyJet: Another major player in the low-cost airline market, easyJet connects numerous European cities to Greece, providing affordable options for those looking to explore on a budget.
Wizz Air: Offering a growing network of routes, Wizz Air provides budget-friendly flights to Greece from various destinations in Europe, particularly Eastern Europe.
Volotea: This Spanish airline focuses on connecting smaller European cities to Greece, offering a less common but potentially convenient option.
Transavia: A low-cost airline owned by Air France-KLM, Transavia flies to several Greek islands and mainland destinations.

Regional Airlines & Seasonal Operators:

Many regional airlines and charter companies also operate flights to Greece, particularly during the peak summer season. These may include airlines like:

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS)
Norwegian Air Shuttle
Eurowings
Swiss International Air Lines
Austrian Airlines

It’s crucial to check directly with these airlines or use flight comparison websites to determine their current routes and availability. Availability can change drastically depending on the time of year.

Finding the Best Flights: A Strategy

Finding the best flight to Greece isn’t just about knowing who flies there, but also how to find the best deals.

Utilize Flight Comparison Websites

Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, Kayak, and Momondo are your best friends. These tools aggregate flight information from numerous airlines, allowing you to compare prices, routes, and travel times easily.

Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates

If your travel dates are flexible, you can often find significantly cheaper flights. Experiment with different dates and consider traveling during the shoulder season (spring or fall) for better deals and fewer crowds.

Consider Alternative Airports

Sometimes, flying into a smaller or less popular airport can save you money. For example, instead of flying directly into Athens, consider flying into Thessaloniki and taking a domestic flight or ferry to your final destination.

Book in Advance (But Not Too Early)

The sweet spot for booking international flights is generally considered to be 2-3 months in advance. Booking too early might not guarantee the best prices, while waiting until the last minute often results in significantly higher fares.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip to Greece:

1. Which Greek airports are served by international flights?

Greece has several international airports, the most prominent being Athens International Airport (ATH) and Thessaloniki Airport (SKG). Other popular international airports include Heraklion International Airport (HER) in Crete, Rhodes International Airport (RHO), Corfu International Airport (CFU), and Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH). Many smaller islands also have airports that receive seasonal international flights.

2. What is the cheapest time of year to fly to Greece?

The shoulder season (April-May and September-October) generally offers the best combination of good weather and lower prices. Avoid peak summer months (June-August) and major holidays for the most affordable flights.

3. Are there any direct flights from Asia to Greece?

Yes, Emirates and Qatar Airways offer flights to Athens with connections through Dubai and Doha, respectively, providing convenient access from various Asian destinations. Some other airlines may offer seasonal direct flights.

4. What are the baggage allowances for flights to Greece?

Baggage allowances vary widely depending on the airline and your ticket class. Budget airlines typically have stricter baggage policies and charge extra for checked luggage. Always check the airline’s website for the most up-to-date information.

5. Do I need a visa to travel to Greece?

Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union, do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. However, it’s always best to check the specific visa requirements for your nationality before traveling.

6. What currency is used in Greece?

Greece uses the Euro (€).

7. What language is spoken in Greece?

The official language of Greece is Greek. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

8. How far in advance should I book flights to Greece?

As mentioned earlier, 2-3 months in advance is generally a good rule of thumb for international flights. However, if you’re traveling during peak season, booking even earlier is recommended.

9. Are there any domestic flights within Greece for island hopping?

Yes, Aegean Airlines and Olympic Air operate numerous domestic flights connecting Athens, Thessaloniki, and other major cities to various Greek islands. Ferry services are also a popular option for island hopping.

10. What are some popular destinations to visit in Greece?

Popular destinations include Athens (for its historical sites), Santorini (for its stunning sunsets), Mykonos (for its vibrant nightlife), Crete (for its diverse landscapes and beaches), and Rhodes (for its medieval history).

11. What documents do I need to enter Greece?

You’ll need a valid passport (with at least six months of validity remaining) and, if applicable, a visa. It’s also a good idea to have copies of your flight itinerary, hotel reservations, and travel insurance information.

12. What are the best ways to get around in Greece?

Within cities, public transportation (buses, metro, trams) and taxis are readily available. For traveling between islands, ferries are a popular and scenic option. Renting a car is a good choice for exploring the mainland at your own pace.

With a plethora of airlines flying to Greece, planning your dream vacation has never been easier. By understanding your options, utilizing flight comparison tools, and being flexible with your travel dates, you can find the perfect flight to kickstart your unforgettable Greek adventure!