Getting from Thessaloniki Airport to the City
Arriving at Thessaloniki Airport leaves you with several ways to reach the city, but the best option depends on where you are staying, when your flight lands and how much luggage you are carrying.
The cheapest choice is the direct airport bus, which links the terminal with central Thessaloniki and important transport connections across the city. Daytime and overnight services mean public transport remains an option even when flights arrive late.
There is no metro station at Thessaloniki Airport. This is important because maps of the new Thessaloniki Metro can make the airport appear closer to the network than it really is. Reaching the metro requires a connecting bus journey from the terminal.
For most visitors staying in central Thessaloniki, the choice will be between remaining on the direct airport bus or taking a taxi straight to the accommodation. The bus costs considerably less, while a taxi avoids waiting for the next service, managing luggage on public transport and walking from the final stop.
A pre-booked private transfer offers another door-to-door option. This is particularly useful for families, groups, late arrivals and travellers who want a driver waiting when the flight lands.
Car hire is widely available at the airport, but renting a car solely to visit Thessaloniki is rarely worthwhile. The city is easy to explore on foot and by public transport, while traffic and parking can quickly turn a hire car into an inconvenience. A vehicle becomes much more useful when the airport is the starting point for a wider journey through Halkidiki, Mount Olympus or northern Greece.
The airport sits southeast of Thessaloniki, so road traffic can have a noticeable effect on transfer times. A journey that moves quickly outside peak periods can take considerably longer when the main roads into the city are busy.
For most budget travellers, the direct airport bus is the best place to start. A taxi or private transfer is the better choice when convenience matters more than cost, while the bus and metro combination is useful when your final destination sits naturally on the metro network.
Thessaloniki Airport Transfers at a Glance
The direct bus offers the simplest balance of price and convenience, but it is not automatically the best choice for every part of Thessaloniki.
| Transfer Option | Typical Journey Time | Best For | Main Drawback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Airport Bus | Around 40 to 50 minutes | Budget travellers and central accommodation | Can be affected by traffic |
| Night Airport Bus | Depends on destination | Late-night and early-morning travel | Slower than a taxi |
| Bus and Metro | Depends on the connection | Accommodation near a metro station | Requires a change |
| Taxi | Around 25 to 35 minutes | Easy door-to-door travel | Costs considerably more than the bus |
| Private Transfer | Around 25 to 35 minutes | Families, groups and planned arrivals | Usually more expensive |
| Car Hire | Around 25 to 35 minutes | Wider trips around northern Greece | Parking and traffic in the city |
The direct airport bus is the best-value option for most visitors. It allows you to leave the terminal and continue towards central Thessaloniki without changing transport.
A taxi is much easier with heavy luggage and can save a substantial amount of effort when several people are travelling together. The difference in cost also becomes less significant when the fare is divided between a group.
The bus and metro combination needs to be considered according to the final destination rather than simply because the metro is faster than road transport. Changing vehicles adds another stage to the journey, so it only makes sense when the metro leaves you significantly closer to your accommodation.
Private transfers offer the greatest certainty. The journey is arranged before arrival, the driver knows which flight you are taking and you travel directly to the address provided during booking.
Car hire sits in a separate category. It is not really an airport transfer solution for a normal Thessaloniki city break. Hire a car because you need one after leaving the city, not simply because the rental desks are conveniently located at the airport.
How Far Is Thessaloniki Airport from the City Centre?
Thessaloniki Airport is around 13 to 15 kilometres southeast of central Thessaloniki, depending on exactly where in the city you are travelling.
That final detail matters. A hotel near the eastern side of the centre is considerably closer to the airport than the New Railway Station or KTEL Makedonia Bus Station on the western side of the city.
In light traffic, a taxi or private transfer can usually reach central Thessaloniki in around 25 to 35 minutes. The direct bus takes longer because it follows a fixed route and stops to collect and drop off passengers along the way.
Traffic is the main source of uncertainty. The airport is connected with Thessaloniki by busy roads, and journey times can increase during weekday commuting periods and other congested parts of the day.
This is why a single advertised transfer time can be misleading. Reaching accommodation near the eastern side of central Thessaloniki is a different journey from crossing the city towards the railway station.
The same principle applies when comparing public transport. A direct airport bus may be ideal for one hotel, while another traveller may save time by connecting with the metro and continuing beneath the city.
Before choosing a transfer, check the exact location of your accommodation and the nearest useful bus or metro stop. Thessaloniki has a compact central area, but arriving at the wrong side of it with heavy luggage can add an unnecessary walk to the end of the journey.
Finding Transport After You Land
After collecting your luggage, the easiest approach is to decide which transfer you are taking before leaving the terminal area. The bus stop, taxi rank and private-transfer meeting arrangements all work differently, and knowing where you are heading avoids unnecessary searching outside.
Public buses leave from the arrivals area outside Exit 4 of Terminal 1. This is the main starting point for travellers using the direct airport services or making a connection with the wider public transport network.
Tickets can be bought using the facilities provided at the airport before boarding. Buying the correct ticket in advance is easier than trying to work out the fare after the bus arrives, particularly when several passengers are waiting to board.
The taxi rank is outside the terminal. Official taxis provide a direct journey to your accommodation, making them the simplest spontaneous option if you decide after landing that you do not want to use public transport.
Passengers who have booked a private transfer should follow the meeting instructions supplied with the reservation. Depending on the provider, the driver may wait in the arrivals area or at a designated meeting point.
Late-night arrivals need a little more planning. Public transport continues overnight, but the service and journey can differ from the daytime airport connection. Check the correct night route before the flight rather than trying to solve the journey after landing.
Travellers hiring a car should follow the collection instructions provided by the rental company. Some vehicles are collected directly at the airport, while other companies may use a nearby location or shuttle arrangement.
The airport is manageable, but the transfer becomes much easier when you already know which exit, stop or meeting point you need. Once you have collected your bags, head directly for the transport option you chose before arrival rather than comparing everything again outside the terminal.
Taking the Direct Airport Bus
For most travellers using public transport, the direct OASTH airport bus is the simplest way to travel from Thessaloniki Airport into the city. It is considerably cheaper than a taxi and allows you to reach central Thessaloniki without changing vehicles.
During the day, OASTH route 01X links the airport with the city centre before continuing west towards the intercity bus terminal. Overnight, route 01N keeps the airport connected with Thessaloniki when the daytime service is not operating. Both routes are part of the city’s urban bus network.
The journey from the airport into central Thessaloniki usually takes around 40 to 50 minutes, although the exact time depends on traffic and where you leave the bus. Passengers continuing further west towards the New Railway Station or KTEL Makedonia should allow longer.
Buses leave from the arrivals area outside Exit 4 of Terminal 1. Once on board, you can remain on the same vehicle until the stop that best suits your accommodation, making the direct bus particularly useful when travelling with luggage.
The service is not non-stop. It calls at stops along the route, allowing passengers to leave in different parts of Thessaloniki. Check the closest stop to your accommodation before travelling rather than automatically staying on the bus until the end of the route.
Traffic is the main disadvantage. The 01X uses the same roads as cars and taxis, so a journey that takes around 40 minutes in lighter traffic can take longer during busy periods. This matters particularly when travelling back to the airport for a flight.
The easiest way to follow the service is with the OSETH Bus app. It shows routes, stops, timetables, estimated arrival times and the live position of buses on the map. You can also plan a journey and buy QR bus tickets in the app, making it useful both for the airport transfer and for travelling around Thessaloniki during your stay.
The older OASTH app is being phased out, so download OSETH Bus rather than relying on the old app.
For most first-time visitors staying in central Thessaloniki, the 01X is the public transport option we would check first. The bus takes around 40 to 50 minutes into town, requires no change and leaves directly from the airport terminal. The bus and metro combination becomes more attractive only when the metro provides a clearly better final connection to your accommodation.
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Using the 01X Daytime Airport Bus
During the day, the 01X airport bus provides the main direct public transport connection between Thessaloniki Airport and the city.
The service leaves from outside Exit 4 of Terminal 1 and travels into Thessaloniki, serving a series of stops along the way. This makes it more useful than a simple express shuttle for travellers staying in different parts of the centre.
A typical journey to central Thessaloniki takes around 40 to 50 minutes, although traffic can add considerably to the travel time. The bus may move quickly outside busy periods and then lose time as it approaches the more congested parts of the city.
The biggest advantage is simplicity. Once you have boarded at the airport, you can remain on the same bus until the stop that best suits your accommodation.
This is particularly helpful with luggage. Changing from a bus to the metro may save time for some destinations, but it also means leaving one vehicle, finding the station entrance and managing your bags through another part of the public transport network.
The 01X works best when your accommodation is close to the route or within a manageable walk of one of its stops. It becomes less attractive when the bus carries you past a useful metro connection and then leaves you with a lengthy walk at the end.
Allow more time when travelling during busy periods. The published journey time should be treated as a guide rather than a promise, particularly when using the service for the return trip to catch a flight.
For most first-time visitors staying in central Thessaloniki, the 01X is the public transport option we would check first. It may not always be the fastest journey, but avoiding a change makes the arrival much easier.
Travelling Overnight on the 01N
Late arrivals do not automatically require an expensive taxi. The 01N night bus keeps Thessaloniki Airport connected with the city when the daytime airport service is not operating.
This is particularly useful for flights arriving after the metro and other daytime transport options have finished. Instead of arranging a private transfer simply because you land late, you may still be able to complete the journey by public transport.
The overnight service should not be treated as an exact replacement for the daytime bus. Night routes can follow different stopping patterns and take different amounts of time, so check the stop that best suits your accommodation before travelling.
Arriving in the city during the night also changes the final part of the journey. A stop that is convenient during the day may be less attractive if it leaves you with a long walk through unfamiliar streets after midnight.
For travellers staying close to a suitable stop, the 01N can offer excellent value. It is particularly appealing to solo travellers who would otherwise pay the full cost of a taxi.
A taxi or private transfer becomes more attractive when several people are sharing the cost, when you have large amounts of luggage or when the final walk from the night bus would be inconvenient.
The same service is relevant for very early flights in the opposite direction. If you need to reach the airport before daytime public transport is running, check whether the 01N provides a practical departure from your part of Thessaloniki.
The night bus means public transport remains a genuine option around the clock, but convenience depends much more heavily on the location of your accommodation than it does during the day.
Buying and Using Airport Bus Tickets
Buying the correct ticket before boarding makes the airport journey much easier. Ticket facilities are available at Thessaloniki Airport, allowing passengers to arrange the fare before the bus arrives.
The airport provides a ticket booth and automated ticket machines near the public transport departure area. Using these facilities is generally the simplest option when beginning the journey at the terminal.
Check that you are buying the correct fare for the airport service rather than assuming every Thessaloniki bus ticket is interchangeable. Airport routes can have different ticket rules from ordinary journeys within the city.
Once on board, follow the current validation instructions for the ticket you have purchased. Buying a ticket and validating it are not always the same step, and an unvalidated ticket may not be considered valid for travel.
Keep the ticket for the full journey. This is especially sensible when travelling through an unfamiliar transport system and continuing towards one of the later stops on the route.
Travellers making a bus and metro journey should also check whether the airport ticket covers the complete transfer or whether a separate metro fare is required. Do not assume that changing between the two systems is automatically included.
Reduced fares may be available to eligible passengers, but carry the required proof of entitlement. The fact that a discounted ticket can be purchased does not remove the need to show evidence if tickets are checked.
Luggage can be brought onto the airport bus, but you remain responsible for managing it throughout the journey. Keep bags clear of doors and aisles and stay close enough to your belongings to collect them easily when your stop approaches.
The airport ticket machines are the best place to sort out the journey before boarding. It is much easier to check the fare and ticket type at the terminal than to make decisions quickly when the bus is waiting.
Connecting with the Thessaloniki Metro
The opening of the Thessaloniki Metro has created another way to travel from the airport, but there is still no metro station at the terminal itself. Every metro journey from Thessaloniki Airport begins with a bus.
This distinction matters because some visitors see the metro network on a map and assume they can walk from arrivals directly to a train. Instead, you need to use an airport bus to reach a suitable metro station before continuing beneath the city.
Changing to the metro can work well when your accommodation is close to a station. Once you have made the connection, the rest of the journey is no longer affected by road traffic, which can be particularly useful during busy periods.
The direct airport bus remains easier when it already takes you close to your accommodation. There is little benefit in changing transport simply for the sake of using the metro if you then need to walk back towards somewhere the direct bus would have served.
Luggage also needs to be considered. A bus and metro journey involves leaving the first vehicle, reaching the station, passing through the ticketing area and boarding again. That extra effort may not be worthwhile after a long flight.
The metro becomes more useful when your destination lies further west or when a station provides a much better final connection than the direct airport bus. It can also offer a more predictable journey once you have reached the rail network.
Tickets need particular attention. Do not assume that the ticket used for the airport bus automatically covers the metro journey. Check the current fare rules before travelling and buy any additional ticket required for the second part of the journey.
For most visitors, the decision is straightforward. Check the location of your hotel against both the airport bus route and the metro network. Stay on the direct bus when it leaves you close to your accommodation, and change to the metro when the rail network clearly improves the final part of the journey.
Reaching Aristotelous Square and the Waterfront
Accommodation around Aristotelous Square and the central waterfront is well placed for exploring Thessaloniki, and public transport from the airport is usually a practical option.
The simplest journey is normally to use the direct airport bus and leave at the most convenient central stop for your accommodation. The final part of the journey can often be completed on foot, although the exact walking distance depends on whether you are staying beside the square, further along the waterfront or on one of the streets behind it.
This is one of the areas where changing to the metro may add unnecessary complexity. A direct bus followed by a manageable walk is often easier than transferring between different forms of transport with luggage.
Check the hotel location before choosing where to leave the bus. Aristotelous Square stretches inland from the waterfront, and accommodation described as being nearby may sit several streets away.
A taxi provides the easiest door-to-door alternative. This can be particularly attractive after a late flight, when travelling with heavy luggage or when several passengers can divide the fare.
The central location also makes the area convenient for the rest of your stay. Much of historic Thessaloniki can be explored on foot, reducing the need to use public transport again after reaching the hotel.
For most travellers staying around Aristotelous Square, we would compare the nearest direct airport bus stop with the final walking distance before considering a bus and metro connection.
Getting to Ladadika and the Ferry Port
The lively Ladadika district and Thessaloniki waterfront sit close to the western side of the historic centre. This area is particularly convenient for restaurants, nightlife and passengers continuing by ferry.
A direct airport bus is usually the simplest public transport choice. Stay on board until the stop that leaves you closest to your accommodation, then complete the final part of the journey on foot.
The exact hotel location matters. Ladadika is compact, but cobbled streets and uneven surfaces can make even a short walk more difficult with a large suitcase. Check the final route from the bus stop rather than judging the journey by distance alone.
Travellers heading directly to the ferry port should check their departure instructions before leaving the airport. Thessaloniki has a large working harbour, and the location of the passenger departure area should not be guessed from a general map pin.
If you have several hours before a ferry, the central position of the port makes it possible to spend time around Ladadika and the waterfront. However, storing luggage and returning to the correct departure area need to be planned in advance.
A taxi or private transfer is the easiest choice when travelling directly from a flight to a ferry with heavy luggage. Avoid a tight connection between a separately booked flight and ferry, as delays at the airport or on the roads could leave you responsible for buying a new ticket.
Our Ferry Routes from Thessaloniki Guide explains the direct sailings from the city, including seasonal ferries to the Sporades and long-distance routes across the Aegean.
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Travelling to Thessaloniki Railway Station
Passengers continuing by train need to reach Thessaloniki New Railway Station, on the western side of the city centre.
The station is further from the airport than many central hotels, so allow more time than you would for a journey to Aristotelous Square or the eastern side of the centre.
Public transport can be used for the complete journey, with the metro now making the final approach to the railway station much easier. New Railway Station has its own metro connection, so an airport bus followed by the metro can be a useful option when the timings work.
The direct airport bus may also suit some journeys, depending on its current route and the stop you intend to use. Compare the complete journey rather than assuming that changing to the metro will automatically be faster.
A taxi provides the simplest connection when you have a train to catch. This removes the need to manage luggage during a transfer and takes you directly to the station entrance.
Leave a generous margin before departure. Road traffic can delay the first part of the journey from the airport, and separately booked flights and trains do not normally provide protection if you miss the connection.
This is particularly important for passengers travelling onwards to Athens. There are only two direct trains from Thessaloniki to Athens each day, so missing a departure can mean a very long wait or switching to a KTEL coach.
Our Thessaloniki to Athens Guide compares the direct train with the coach, flights and driving, including current journey times and departure options.
Travelling to KTEL Makedonia Bus Station
Passengers continuing from Thessaloniki by long-distance coach may need to reach KTEL Makedonia Bus Station, the city’s main terminal for regional and intercity services.
The station sits well west of central Thessaloniki, making it one of the longer airport transfers covered in this guide. Do not use the transfer time for a city-centre hotel when planning a connection at KTEL Makedonia, as you still need to travel beyond the central districts.
Public transport is the cheapest option, but the journey requires more planning than travelling to a central hotel. Depending on the current network and time of day, you may need to combine an airport service with another bus or use the metro for part of the journey before completing the final connection.
Allow plenty of time when travelling between a flight and a separately booked coach. Traffic can delay the journey from the airport, while an unfamiliar interchange can take longer than expected when you are carrying luggage.
A taxi or private transfer is considerably easier when the coach departure time matters. The higher cost can be worthwhile if the alternative involves several stages and leaves little margin for delay.
KTEL Makedonia serves destinations across northern Greece and beyond, so the station can be the beginning of a much longer journey after your flight. Check which Thessaloniki bus station your coach actually uses before leaving the airport, as not every long-distance service departs from the same terminal.
This is particularly important for travellers heading to Athens. KTEL services between Thessaloniki and Athens can use a separate city boarding point before calling at Makedonia, so travelling all the way to the main station may not always be necessary.
Taking a Taxi from Thessaloniki Airport
A taxi is the easiest option when you want to travel directly from the terminal to your accommodation without changing transport or managing luggage on a bus.
The official taxi rank is outside the terminal, allowing arriving passengers to join the queue and take the next available vehicle. There is no need to arrange a standard airport taxi before the flight.
In light traffic, the journey to central Thessaloniki generally takes around 25 to 35 minutes. Travelling to the western side of the city can take longer, particularly during busy periods.
The main advantage is convenience. You leave the airport, load your luggage and travel directly to the address you provide. This can make a considerable difference after a late flight or when your hotel is not close to a useful public transport stop.
A taxi also becomes more competitive when several people travel together. The airport bus is cheaper for a solo traveller, but splitting one taxi fare between three or four passengers can reduce the difference considerably.
Traffic affects taxis just as it affects buses. Paying more does not guarantee a fixed journey time, so allow a generous margin when travelling back to the airport for a departure.
Before setting off, make sure the driver knows the exact destination. A hotel name alone may not be enough if there are similar properties or several branches in the city.
For most visitors, a taxi is the best spontaneous door-to-door option. It costs more than public transport, but there is no need to wait for a transfer provider or work out a connection after landing.
Booking a Private Airport Transfer
A private transfer offers the same basic advantage as a taxi, but the journey is arranged before you arrive in Thessaloniki.
Instead of joining the taxi queue, you book the destination in advance and receive instructions for meeting the driver. This can be particularly reassuring after a late arrival or when visiting the city for the first time.
Private transfers work especially well for families, groups and travellers carrying a large amount of luggage. Larger vehicles can be booked when a standard car would not provide enough passenger or baggage space.
Flight monitoring is another useful advantage. A pre-arranged transfer provider can follow the arrival time and adjust the pickup when the flight is delayed, reducing the need to make new arrangements while travelling.
The price is normally confirmed during booking, allowing you to know the transfer cost before landing. This is useful for travellers who prefer to avoid making decisions about transport immediately after a flight.
We recommend comparing and booking private airport transfers with Welcome Pickups. The service allows you to arrange the journey in advance, enter your accommodation details and have a driver ready for your arrival.
A private transfer will not usually be the cheapest way to reach Thessaloniki. Its value comes from certainty, convenience and having the complete arrival arranged before the journey begins.
For a solo traveller arriving during the day, the direct airport bus will usually offer much better value. For a family arriving late with several suitcases, the calculation can look completely different.
Book Your Airport Transfer in Advance
Arriving in a new destination can be stressful, especially after a long flight. Welcome Pickups lets you pre-book a private airport transfer, so your driver is ready and waiting when you land.
It is ideal for first-time visitors, late-night arrivals, and travellers who want a smooth, reliable start to their trip. Instead of searching for taxis or navigating public transport, you can head straight to your accommodation.
Hiring a Car at Thessaloniki Airport
Thessaloniki Airport is a convenient place to collect a hire car when the city is the beginning of a wider journey through northern Greece.
A vehicle can be useful for reaching Halkidiki, Mount Olympus and destinations that are difficult to explore efficiently by public transport. It also gives you the freedom to stop along the way and travel without building the itinerary around bus or train timetables.
For a normal city break, the situation is very different. Central Thessaloniki is compact, much of it can be explored on foot and the metro and bus network cover the main urban journeys.
Driving into the city also introduces problems that airport bus passengers do not need to consider. Traffic can be heavy, parking may be limited and a car can spend most of the trip unused while you explore the centre on foot.
If Thessaloniki is your first stop before a road trip, consider whether you need to collect the car immediately. Spending several days in the city first and hiring a vehicle only when you are ready to leave can reduce rental and parking costs.
Travellers collecting a car at the airport should check the rental location carefully. Some companies operate directly from the terminal, while others may use a nearby facility or shuttle arrangement.
The booking should also be checked for mileage limits, fuel policy, insurance arrangements and one-way charges if you plan to return the vehicle somewhere else.
Hire a car because it improves the wider trip, not simply because it offers a quick transfer from the airport. For visitors staying only in Thessaloniki, the bus, taxi or private transfer will almost always be easier.
Getting Back to Thessaloniki Airport
The return journey deserves just as much planning as the arrival transfer, particularly when road traffic or an early departure can reduce the margin for error.
During the day, the direct airport bus provides the simplest low-cost journey from central Thessaloniki. Check the stop closest to your accommodation and make sure you are waiting on the correct side of the road for services travelling towards the airport.
Do not rely on the journey time from your arrival transfer when deciding when to leave. Traffic conditions can be completely different, and a bus that reached the city quickly in the evening may take considerably longer during a busy weekday period.
The 01N night service keeps public transport available for some very early departures. Check the timetable and your nearest suitable stop before the day of travel, as walking across the city with luggage in the early hours is unlikely to be a good start to the journey.
A taxi removes the need to reach a bus stop and is often worth considering for early flights. Ask your accommodation to arrange one or use an official booking service, then allow enough time for the drive to the airport.
Private transfers provide the most predictable pickup arrangement. The driver collects you from the address supplied during booking, which can be particularly useful when several passengers or large amounts of luggage are involved.
The correct departure time depends on where you are staying. A hotel on the eastern side of Thessaloniki is closer to the airport than accommodation near the railway station or further west.
Work backwards from the time you need to be inside the terminal, then add the complete transfer time and a margin for delays. Saving half an hour by leaving later is rarely worth the risk of missing a flight.
Early-Morning and Late-Night Flights
Flights outside normal daytime hours change the transfer calculation. Public transport remains possible overnight, but the cheapest option is not always the most sensible one at three or four in the morning.
The 01N night bus provides an important connection between Thessaloniki and the airport. For solo travellers staying close to a suitable stop, it can avoid the cost of a taxi.
The location of your accommodation matters more overnight. A bus stop that seems conveniently close on a daytime map may feel much less practical when reaching it requires a long walk with luggage before dawn.
Very early departures also leave less room for mistakes. Missing a daytime bus may mean waiting for the next service. Missing an infrequent overnight connection can force you to find a taxi at short notice.
A taxi is often the best compromise for early flights, particularly when two or more people can share the fare. The door-to-door journey removes the need to walk to a stop and wait outside with luggage.
Private transfers suit travellers who want the pickup arranged in advance. Families with children, larger groups and passengers with several bags may find the certainty particularly valuable.
Late arrivals create a similar choice in the opposite direction. The night bus keeps public transport available, but a taxi or pre-booked transfer can be worth the extra cost when the final bus stop leaves you far from the accommodation.
Airport Transfers for Families and Groups
Travelling with several people can make the most expensive transfer options far more competitive on a per-person basis.
The airport bus remains the cheapest choice, but managing suitcases, pushchairs and children on public transport can make a simple journey feel much more complicated after a flight.
A standard taxi works well when the group and luggage fit comfortably into one vehicle. Once the fare is divided between several passengers, the difference compared with buying individual public transport tickets becomes less significant.
Luggage capacity needs to be considered before joining the taxi queue. Four passengers with large suitcases may require more space than a normal car can provide, even when the vehicle technically has enough seats.
A pre-booked private transfer allows you to choose a larger vehicle in advance. This is useful for families, groups of friends and anyone travelling with sports equipment or unusually large bags.
Families travelling with young children should also consider child-seat requirements before arrival. A private transfer is often the easiest option when a particular seat needs to be arranged in advance.
For a group heading to the same accommodation, door-to-door transport can also save time. There is no need to move everyone between vehicles or coordinate a final walk from a bus or metro stop.
Compare the total price for the whole group rather than looking only at the cheapest individual ticket. The bus will still win on cost, but a taxi or private transfer may offer much better value once convenience and shared pricing are considered.
Accessible Transport from Thessaloniki Airport
Passengers with reduced mobility should consider the complete journey from the aircraft to the accommodation, rather than looking only at whether a particular bus or station is described as accessible.
Assistance is available at Thessaloniki Airport for passengers who need help moving through the terminal. This should be requested through the airline or travel provider within the required notice period before the flight.
Public transport may be suitable for some travellers, but the final journey needs to be checked carefully. A low-floor bus does not automatically create a completely step-free transfer if the destination stop leaves you with difficult pavements, steep gradients or a long distance to the hotel.
The metro can provide step-free travel between stations using lifts, but there is no metro station at the airport. The initial bus connection and the transfer between vehicles remain part of the journey.
A taxi can remove the need to change transport, although passengers with specific wheelchair requirements should not assume that every vehicle at the airport rank will be suitable.
For guaranteed space or specialist requirements, arrange transport in advance and explain exactly what is needed. This gives the provider time to confirm whether the vehicle can accommodate the passenger, wheelchair and luggage.
Accommodation access matters as well. Before booking a transfer, check whether the driver can stop directly outside the property and whether the entrance itself is step-free.
The easiest accessible journey is usually the one with the fewest uncertain stages. For some passengers, public transport will work well. For others, a pre-arranged door-to-door transfer will provide a much simpler arrival.
Getting Back to Thessaloniki Airport
The return journey deserves just as much planning as the arrival transfer, particularly when road traffic or an early departure can reduce the margin for error.
During the day, the direct airport bus provides the simplest low-cost journey from central Thessaloniki. Check the stop closest to your accommodation and make sure you are waiting on the correct side of the road for services travelling towards the airport.
Do not rely on the journey time from your arrival transfer when deciding when to leave. Traffic conditions can be completely different, and a bus that reached the city quickly in the evening may take considerably longer during a busy weekday period.
The 01N night service keeps public transport available for some very early departures. Check the timetable and your nearest suitable stop before the day of travel, as walking across the city with luggage in the early hours is unlikely to be a good start to the journey.
A taxi removes the need to reach a bus stop and is often worth considering for early flights. Ask your accommodation to arrange one or use an official booking service, then allow enough time for the drive to the airport.
Private transfers provide the most predictable pickup arrangement. The driver collects you from the address supplied during booking, which can be particularly useful when several passengers or large amounts of luggage are involved.
The correct departure time depends on where you are staying. A hotel on the eastern side of Thessaloniki is closer to the airport than accommodation near the railway station or further west.
Work backwards from the time you need to be inside the terminal, then add the complete transfer time and a margin for delays. Saving half an hour by leaving later is rarely worth the risk of missing a flight.
Early-Morning and Late-Night Flights
Flights outside normal daytime hours change the transfer calculation. Public transport remains possible overnight, but the cheapest option is not always the most sensible one at three or four in the morning.
The 01N night bus provides an important connection between Thessaloniki and the airport. For solo travellers staying close to a suitable stop, it can avoid the cost of a taxi.
The location of your accommodation matters more overnight. A bus stop that seems conveniently close on a daytime map may feel much less practical when reaching it requires a long walk with luggage before dawn.
Very early departures also leave less room for mistakes. Missing a daytime bus may mean waiting for the next service. Missing an infrequent overnight connection can force you to find a taxi at short notice.
A taxi is often the best compromise for early flights, particularly when two or more people can share the fare. The door-to-door journey removes the need to walk to a stop and wait outside with luggage.
Private transfers suit travellers who want the pickup arranged in advance. Families with children, larger groups and passengers with several bags may find the certainty particularly valuable.
Late arrivals create a similar choice in the opposite direction. The night bus keeps public transport available, but a taxi or pre-booked transfer can be worth the extra cost when the final bus stop leaves you far from the accommodation.
Airport Transfers for Families and Groups
Travelling with several people can make the most expensive transfer options far more competitive on a per-person basis.
The airport bus remains the cheapest choice, but managing suitcases, pushchairs and children on public transport can make a simple journey feel much more complicated after a flight.
A standard taxi works well when the group and luggage fit comfortably into one vehicle. Once the fare is divided between several passengers, the difference compared with buying individual public transport tickets becomes less significant.
Luggage capacity needs to be considered before joining the taxi queue. Four passengers with large suitcases may require more space than a normal car can provide, even when the vehicle technically has enough seats.
A pre-booked private transfer allows you to choose a larger vehicle in advance. This is useful for families, groups of friends and anyone travelling with sports equipment or unusually large bags.
Families travelling with young children should also consider child-seat requirements before arrival. A private transfer is often the easiest option when a particular seat needs to be arranged in advance.
For a group heading to the same accommodation, door-to-door transport can also save time. There is no need to move everyone between vehicles or coordinate a final walk from a bus or metro stop.
Compare the total price for the whole group rather than looking only at the cheapest individual ticket. The bus will still win on cost, but a taxi or private transfer may offer much better value once convenience and shared pricing are considered.
Accessible Transport from Thessaloniki Airport
Passengers with reduced mobility should consider the complete journey from the aircraft to the accommodation, rather than looking only at whether a particular bus or station is described as accessible.
Assistance is available at Thessaloniki Airport for passengers who need help moving through the terminal. This should be requested through the airline or travel provider within the required notice period before the flight.
Public transport may be suitable for some travellers, but the final journey needs to be checked carefully. A low-floor bus does not automatically create a completely step-free transfer if the destination stop leaves you with difficult pavements, steep gradients or a long distance to the hotel.
The metro can provide step-free travel between stations using lifts, but there is no metro station at the airport. The initial bus connection and the transfer between vehicles remain part of the journey.
A taxi can remove the need to change transport, although passengers with specific wheelchair requirements should not assume that every vehicle at the airport rank will be suitable.
For guaranteed space or specialist requirements, arrange transport in advance and explain exactly what is needed. This gives the provider time to confirm whether the vehicle can accommodate the passenger, wheelchair and luggage.
Accommodation access matters as well. Before booking a transfer, check whether the driver can stop directly outside the property and whether the entrance itself is step-free.
The easiest accessible journey is usually the one with the fewest uncertain stages. For some passengers, public transport will work well. For others, a pre-arranged door-to-door transfer will provide a much simpler arrival.
Rupert’s Handy Travel Tips
Travelling between Thessaloniki Airport and the city? Here are a few useful tips to make your journey smoother:
- Check your hotel location before choosing a transfer: The direct airport bus is ideal for many central stays, but a bus and metro connection may work better when your accommodation is close to a metro station.
- Do not look for a metro station at the airport: Thessaloniki Airport is not directly connected to the metro, so every rail journey begins with a bus from the terminal.
- Use the night bus when the stop suits your accommodation: The 01N keeps public transport available overnight, but a taxi may be worth the extra cost if the final walk is inconvenient.
- Leave extra time for the return journey: Road traffic can change quickly, so do not assume the trip back to the airport will take the same amount of time as your arrival transfer.
- Hire a car for the wider trip, not the city transfer: A vehicle is useful for Halkidiki and northern Greece but can become an unnecessary expense during a central Thessaloniki stay.
Want to meet the reindeer behind our travel tips? Find out more in our page Who is Rupert?.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from Thessaloniki Airport to the city centre?
The simplest options are the direct airport bus, a taxi or a pre-booked private transfer. The bus is the cheapest choice, while taxis and private transfers provide a direct journey to your accommodation.
Is there a metro from Thessaloniki Airport?
No. Thessaloniki Airport does not have a metro station. You need to take a bus from the terminal and connect with the metro if the rail network provides a better route to your destination.
Where do I catch the airport bus in Thessaloniki?
Airport buses leave from the arrivals area outside Exit 4 of Terminal 1.
Does the Thessaloniki Airport bus run at night?
Yes. The 01N night bus provides an overnight connection between the airport and the city when the daytime airport service is not operating.
How long does the bus from Thessaloniki Airport take?
A typical journey to central Thessaloniki takes around 40 to 50 minutes, but road traffic can increase the travel time.
How long does a taxi from Thessaloniki Airport take?
The journey to central Thessaloniki generally takes around 25 to 35 minutes in light traffic. Travelling further west or during a busy period can take longer.
What is the cheapest way to get from Thessaloniki Airport to the city?
The airport bus is normally the cheapest practical transfer option for visitors travelling into Thessaloniki.
What is the fastest way to get from Thessaloniki Airport to the city?
A taxi or private transfer is usually the fastest option because it travels directly to your destination without intermediate stops or a change of transport.
Should I take the bus or metro from Thessaloniki Airport?
There is no metro at the airport itself. For most central accommodation, the direct bus is easier. A bus and metro combination makes more sense when your destination is particularly well placed for the metro network.
Can I get from Thessaloniki Airport to the railway station by public transport?
Yes. Public transport connects the airport with the city, and New Railway Station is served by the metro. Depending on the current routes and timings, a bus and metro journey can be useful.
How do I get from Thessaloniki Airport to the ferry port?
The direct airport bus can take you towards central Thessaloniki, followed by a walk or short onward journey to the passenger port. A taxi or private transfer is easier when travelling with heavy luggage or connecting directly with a ferry.
How do I get from Thessaloniki Airport to KTEL Makedonia Bus Station?
The station lies west of the city centre, so the journey takes longer than a transfer to a central hotel. Public transport is available, but a taxi or private transfer can be more practical when you have a fixed coach departure.
Is it worth hiring a car at Thessaloniki Airport?
A hire car is useful for a wider trip to Halkidiki, Mount Olympus or northern Greece, but it is unnecessary for most visitors spending their time in central Thessaloniki.
Further Reading
New to the city? Our Thessaloniki Public Transport Guide explains how to use the metro and buses after you have reached the centre.
Once you have checked into your accommodation, our Best Things to Do in Thessaloniki Guide covers the city’s historic sites, waterfront, museums and neighbourhoods.
Travelling onwards to the Greek capital? Our Thessaloniki to Athens Guide compares the direct train, KTEL coaches, flights and driving.
Flying with Aegean Airlines? Our complete Aegean Airlines Guide covers fares, baggage allowances, check-in, the Aegean app, Miles+Bonus, Olympic Air, and using flights to travel around Greece and the Greek islands.
If your journey continues by sea, our Ferry Routes from Thessaloniki Guide covers direct summer ferries to the Sporades and long-distance sailings across the Aegean.
Last Updated
This guide was last updated in July 2026. Airport bus routes, timetables, ticket prices and taxi fares can change, so always check the latest transport information before travelling.
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