Thessaloniki International Airport SKG: Departures and guide

Flying from/to Thessaloniki International Airport

Find out the best way to get from Thessaloniki International Airport to the city centre by doing some research in advance. Should you take a train, bus or a tram from the airport to and from the city centre? Our guide to Thessaloniki International Airport and the facilities mean you can find your way around the terminal upon arriving and plan the rest of your trip—whether its for a short weekend or a little longer.

Arriving at Thessaloniki International Airport (SKG)

Thessaloniki International Airport is situated 8.1 miles (13 kilometers) southeast of Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city. Known locally as Thessaloniki Airport Makedonia, it sits just beside the Thermaic Gulf, which opens out into the Aegean Sea. One of Greek's busiest airports, it has one terminal with three levels. The construction of an additional terminal is currently underway. The airport is open 24 hours a day and is a Ryanair, Olympic Air, Ellinair, and Aegean Airlines hub, operating hundreds of flights daily across Europe and beyond. The city has a great public transportation network in place, making it easy to reach central Thessaloniki from the airport via public bus connections. 

What's the best way to get from Thessaloniki International Airport to the city center?

The best way to reach central Thessaloniki from the airport is by bus. There are plans to connect the airport to the city's metro network, but currently, the public bus is the most effective way to reach the city center. Two main bus routes service the city center: the X1 and N1 (KTEL - Airport). N1 refers to the night bus alternative for passengers arriving at night. The X1 journey to central Thessaloniki takes 40 to 50 minutes, and buses are as frequent as every 30 minutes. Buses stop at the central railway station, right in the city center. The next best way to travel to Thessaloniki city center is by taxi. Taxis are a very convenient option, especially on warmer days. However, it should be noted that Thessaloniki public transport is cheaper than cabs and quite accessible for those with limited mobility. 

How far is the city center from Thessaloniki International Airport?

Thessaloniki city center sits 8.1 miles (13 kilometers) northwest of Thessaloniki Airport. It's recommended that travelers leave themselves one to one-and-a-half hours to reach central Thessaloniki using public buses, and 30 minutes when taking a taxi or car in light traffic. As buses take a separate route from cars, they are less affected when traffic is congested. For this reason, they serve as a great alternative during travel seasons and peak hours in the mornings and evenings. Even with the accessibility of public transportation, taxis may be the best alternative for those carrying heavy luggage.

What services are there at Thessaloniki International Airport?

Thessaloniki International Airport has a range of services for arriving passengers, including a handful of duty-free shops and dining amenities. There are a few family restaurants, bars, cafés, and bakeries for arriving passengers seeking anything from a light snack to a full meal. There's free WiFi for all passengers, as well as children's facilities so that families can unwind before getting on another mode of transportation. Those traveling for business will enjoy the two lounges at the airport, where they can refresh before heading to their meeting or accommodations.

How accessible is the route for those with limited mobility?

Like many airports in the European Union, Thessaloniki Airport offers great services to those with limited mobility. To ensure they receive the best possible assistance, passengers with limited mobility or disabilities should inform their respective airlines or travel agencies of any requirements 48 hours before flying. Assistance comes in the form of helping arriving passengers with luggage, getting through security, moving around the airport, and getting onto further transportation into the city. The local public bus X1 and N1 routes into the city center are operated by the Organisation of Urban Transportation of Thessaloniki, and there's fairly extensive information on its website regarding accessibility. Many buses are wheelchair accessible. 

Local tips: what to know before flying to Thessaloniki International Airport

As Thessaloniki International Airport services a densely populated and busy vacation city, it can get very crowded during peak travel times. Travelers arriving at the airport during summer, particularly in July or August, can expect long queues and crowds. It's best for passengers to arrive with a patient mindset, full water bottle, and book to read. Like in many popular vacation destinations, it's always best for vacationers to be aware of scams or safety concerns within a city. In an island like Thessaloniki, where taxi travel is a popular means of getting around, it's advisable to opt for the metered taxis vetted by the airport to ensure a fair charge at the end of the ride.