Thessaloniki Macedonia International Airport
Thessaloniki, GR · 13 km (8 mi) southeast of Thessaloniki city centre
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Beat Rideshare app-based taxi | 5 min | — |
| Bus 1 Bus | 30-40 min | 2 |
| Car Rental Shuttle Car hire minibus | 5-10 min transfer (plus wait) | — |
| Hotel Shuttle Buses Hotel-operated minibus | 30-40 min | — |
Insider notes
For a truly Greek coffee before boarding, bypass the chains and try the independent coffee kiosk in the departures area after security.
Pre-book a shared or private transfer to Halkidiki, often cheaper than the taxis at the rank, especially after midnight.
Avoid the overcrowded Bus 01X with luggage during peak times; sit near the driver to catch the stop if you must take it.
Welcome
Thessaloniki Macedonia International Airport (SKG) might lack the polish of major hubs, but it offers an authentic glimpse into regional Greek travel. It's where you’ll find locals mingling with tourists as they head to Halkidiki, the islands, or catch one of the many charter flights. Despite its modest amenities, its compact size makes for a navigable experience with a few commendable Greek food and coffee stops. Positioned just 13 km southeast of Thessaloniki city centre, it's also a gateway to the serene seaside suburbs, particularly useful for those on long layovers.
At a glance
With 6.9 million passengers passing through annually, Thessaloniki Airport manages to maintain a small, regional feel. It functions with two runways and two main terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, housing major airlines such as Aegean Airlines, Ryanair, and Olympic Air. Though void of a true hub airline, its role as a connector to Halkidiki and the islands is significant.
Terminals & layout
Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 stand as the airport's primary buildings. Terminal 2 is where you’ll find a larger selection of shops and dining options, including a variety of eateries and four lounges. Despite the compact nature of the terminals, be aware of potential bottlenecks during peak charter hours, particularly in summer months. Security and passport control might require more time than anticipated, so plan accordingly. Terminal 2 offers some quieter corners, especially around the remote Schengen gates, which can be a respite from the hustle.
Getting to and from the city
Transportation options from the airport to Thessaloniki city include the OASTH Bus 01X, which will take about 40-45 minutes but can get crowded at peak times. A taxi offers a faster ride at around 20-25 minutes, typically costing €24-25. Rideshare services like Beat and Uber are also available. For those heading to Halkidiki, pre-booking a shuttle or transfer could provide a smoother and often cheaper alternative to negotiating late-night taxi prices.
Traveller essentials
The airport offers several parking options, with prices ranging from €10.00 per day for long-stay parking to €30.00 for valet services. EV charging stations and accessible parking are readily available. For currency matters, it's wise to keep small euro notes and coins handy as some local buses and kiosks might have spotty card payment reliability. Inside, seating can be limited at peak times, so grab a spot early if you have time to wait for your flight.
Dining & shopping highlights
While the airport’s food can be pricey compared to Thessaloniki's vibrant dining scene, Terminal 2 provides a variety of options from Goody's Burger House to local favorites like Terkenlis and Hellenic Bakery. Coffee aficionados should head to the independent kiosk after security for a superior espresso experience over the larger chains. Duty-free options include Hellenic Duty Free Shops, Relay, and Akron for those last-minute purchases.
Lounges
Thessaloniki Airport hosts several lounges, mostly located in Terminal 2, such as the Prima Vista Lounge and "The Lounge" Thessaloniki, both available for €30. Frequent flyers suggest seeking out the less crowded independent lounges, where you might find better amenities like functioning showers which can be refreshing after a long journey.