Roberta Aguirre
Athens International Airport is located about 15 minutes northwest of the town of Spata. If you're looking for things to do near the airport, you have a variety of options, depending on the length of your layover. Within the airport, you can find unique shops, boutiques, services, artwork, dining options, and an exhibit showcasing archaeological artifacts. For longer layovers, you can take a 15-minute taxi ride to the Attica Zoological Park, which houses a diverse range of local and international animals. The nearby town of Spata offers spacious accommodations, such as the Deus Apartments, and dining options like Dina's House, known for its tavernas and proximity to the main shopping street. For a change of scenery, the Sofitel Athens Airport Hotel, located directly across the street, provides 5-star amenities, including restaurants, bars, and a luxurious hotel spa. If you have a longer layover, you can take the metro into downtown Athens, which takes about 40 minutes to reach Monastiraki station, and explore the Plaka area, known for its shopping and dining options. For a beach getaway, popular Athenian Riviera beach towns like Artemis Beach and Rafina are within a 15 to 25-minute distance.
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What You'll Learn
Visit Attica Zoological Park, home to a wide range of animals
If you're looking for things to do near Athens Airport, one option is to visit the Attica Zoological Park, which is home to a wide range of animals. The zoo is located in the suburb of Spata, about 15 minutes north-west of the airport, and is open 365 days a year. It offers a delightful and engaging experience for visitors of all ages with its diverse array of animals, numbering over 2000 from 350 species, according to some sources. This includes big cats such as lions, Sumatran tigers, Persian leopards, and pumas, as well as elephants, dolphins, and reptiles. The enclosures are well-designed to reproduce the animals' natural habitats, making the visit both enjoyable and educational. The park also features walk-through exhibits, including a Lemur Forest, Birds of Africa, Asia and America, and the Bat Forest.
Attica Zoological Park is not just a zoo but also a centre for conservation and welfare. It actively participates in major global programs, such as the breeding of endangered species like the Persian leopard, in collaboration with organisations like WWF Russia and the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA). The zoo has successfully rehabilitated and released several animals, including monk seals, a golden jackal, a great white pelican, and griffon vultures.
The park is easily accessible by public transport, although it is located about 25 kilometres from the centre of Athens. Visitors can take advantage of organised tours to learn more about the zoo's programs and activities, including the Chimpanzee and African Penguin pens. There is also a 'Meet the Animals' activity suitable for children over 5 years old, which must be booked in advance. The zoo's facilities, including restrooms, are well-maintained and clean, and the staff is reported to be friendly and attentive.
Overall, the Attica Zoological Park provides a fantastic opportunity for travellers to experience a wide range of animals, learn about conservation efforts, and enjoy a well-organised and educational outing. It is a great option for those with a few hours to spare near Athens Airport, offering an engaging and delightful experience for both children and adults alike.
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Explore the shops and restaurants at the Mall Athens
If you're looking for a place to shop and dine near Athens Airport, The Mall Athens is a great option. It is the largest mall in Athens and is located just a short distance from the airport. With over 200 stores featuring thousands of beloved brands, you're sure to find something to suit your taste. The mall also offers a wide variety of dining options, making it a perfect place to spend a few hours.
For those looking for a bite to eat, The Mall Athens has a diverse selection of restaurants to choose from. Hachi & Co Sushi and Wok offers a delightful array of Asian street food, while the Urban Roof Garden on Level 3 provides a relaxing atmosphere and elegant aesthetics for a more upscale dining experience. If you're craving something more familiar, there's always Wagamama, serving up pan-Asian curries, Thai salads, ramen, and sushi. Or, if you're in the mood for a juicy burger, head to Gourmet Burger Kitchen, where you'll also find healthy options like their pear and cranberry salad.
The Mall Athens is also a shopper's paradise. From high-end fashion brands like Nike, Brooks Brothers, and Tommy Hilfiger to chi-chi boutiques offering designer clothing for kids, this mall has it all. AlterShops Designer Outlet is a modern and attractive complex featuring a wide range of fashion brands at discounted prices. And if you're travelling with children, there's plenty to keep them entertained, including a Lego Play Factory, a Ben & Jerry's ice cream shop, and I-Play on the second floor, where kids can paint and play while you shop.
Getting to The Mall Athens is easy. Simply take a taxi or hop on one of the buses (Α7, Ε14, Χ14, 550) and get off at the ''Olympic Stadium' stop. With so much to offer, The Mall Athens is a great way to spend a few hours if you're looking for things to do near Athens Airport.
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Head to the beach at Artemis, Rafina, or Vouliagmeni
If you're looking for a beach day during your layover, there are a few options near Athens Airport. Head to Artemis Beach, a quick trip from the airport, for a swim in the turquoise waters and a stroll along the sandy 2.2-kilometre shoreline. The beach is supervised by lifeguards and offers essential amenities like deck chairs, umbrellas, changing cabins, and bars. You'll also find plenty of dining options within walking distance, making it a great choice for a quick bite and a swim.
For a full beach experience, consider visiting Vouliagmeni Beach, where you can rent a car and explore at your own pace. This beach offers clear waters and a variety of facilities, including luxury hotels with swimming pools, restaurants, and spa centres. You can also book tours, such as an extended afternoon trip to Cape Sounion, to explore the Athenian Riviera and enjoy marvellous views.
Alternatively, Rafina beach is another great option, offering a beautiful coastline and a variety of water sports activities. It is easily accessible by public transport, and you can also find many restaurants, bars, and hotels nearby.
These beach options provide excellent opportunities for relaxation, leisure, and exploration during your time near Athens Airport. Whether you're looking for a quick dip, a scenic tour, or a luxurious beach vacation, these destinations are sure to deliver a memorable experience.
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Take a taxi to the Markopoulo Horse race track
If you're looking for something to do near Athens Airport, you could take a taxi to the Markopoulo Horse Race Track. The racetrack was built for the 2004 Olympic Summer Games in Athens and is now one of the top racetracks in the world. You can watch and place bets on the several races that take place there each week. The Markopoulo racetrack is also a great place to observe the growing popularity of horseback riding in Greece, with over 35 horse riding clubs in the region of Attica alone.
Taking a taxi is a convenient option for getting to the racetrack, and you can also use the same taxi to visit other nearby attractions. One option is to take the taxi to the seaside area of Porto Rafti or Avlaki and enjoy a meal at one of the local tavernas. Another option is to visit the area of Kalyvia and eat at Trigono, a taverna that is popular among Athenians.
If you're looking for other things to do near the airport, there are a few options. The town of Spata, located about 15 minutes northwest of the airport, offers spacious suites at Deus Apartments and accommodation right on the main shopping street at Dina's House. The Athens Zoo and Aquaopolis Aqua Park are also located near the airport, providing entertainment for all ages.
Additionally, you can take the metro into downtown Athens, which takes about 40 minutes to reach Monastiraki station in the heart of the Plaka area. There, you can explore the shopping district, grab a coffee, or enjoy a meal at O Thanasis or Kuzina.
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Wander the streets of Plaka for shopping and coffee
If you're looking for things to do near Athens Airport, the town of Plaka is a great option. Plaka is known for its cobblestone streets, lush bougainvillea, and neoclassical buildings, making it one of the prettiest places in Athens. It's also a popular shopping and dining destination.
When it comes to shopping in Plaka, you'll find a variety of options, especially if you're looking for souvenirs. The streets of Plaka are lined with charming shops and boutiques, offering everything from handmade crafts and jewellery to local food products. If you're looking for unique items created by local artisans, be sure to check out Pagani, a shop that sells quirky items such as ceramic crockery, clocks, and lamps. For those interested in purchasing olive tree-based products, Plaka is the place to go, with shops like Elaias Gi and Evonon offering a wide range of Greek olive oils, soaps, and kitchenware made from olive tree wood.
In addition to shopping, Plaka is also known for its vibrant dining scene. You'll find a variety of restaurants, cafes, and traditional Greek tavernas to suit any taste or budget. For a charming bistro-cafe experience, Yiasemi on Mnisikleous is a popular choice, with outdoor seating on the stairsteps and a gorgeous view of Plaka. Another option is Café Melina on Lysiou, dedicated to the Greek actress and politician Melina Merkouri. If you're interested in sampling some homemade liquor, Brettos Bar on Kydathinaion is a famous Instagram-worthy spot, known for its colourful liquors and historic atmosphere as the oldest distillery in Athens.
Plaka is easily accessible from Athens Airport, with a 40-minute metro ride to Monastiraki Station, which is located in the heart of Plaka. So, whether you're looking for shopping, dining, or just a leisurely stroll, wandering the streets of Plaka is a great way to spend your time near Athens Airport.
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Frequently asked questions
There is plenty to do near Athens Airport, including:
- Shopping at the Smart Park/Designer Outlet Mall
- Visiting Attica Zoological Park
- Visiting the town of Spata
- Wine tasting at local Greek wineries
- Visiting the beach at Artemis, Rafina, Vouliagmeni or Voula
Yes, there are several good restaurants near Athens Airport, including:
- La Pasteria
- O Thanasis
- Kuzina
- Eat Greek
Yes, the Sofitel Athens Airport Hotel is located directly across the street from the airport.
Athens Airport has several lounges, unique shops, boutiques, services, artwork, and dining options. There is also an interesting exhibit highlighting archaeological artifacts from the area.
It takes approximately 40 minutes to get from Athens Airport to Monastiraki station in the heart of downtown Athens.
