Thessaloniki Macedonia International Airport

Thessaloniki Airport "Makedonia" (SKG) is Greece's third-busiest airport, serving Thessaloniki, the country's second-largest city and the capital of Greek Macedonia. Located 13 km (8 miles) southeast of the city center in Thermi, the airport is the primary gateway to Northern Greece, the Halkidiki peninsula beaches, and Mount Olympus.

The airport has two connected terminal buildings:

• Terminal 1 (Old Terminal): Handles some domestic flights and serves as the arrivals hall
• Terminal 2 (New Terminal): The main departures terminal with 28 check-in counters, 12 gates, duty-free shopping, and the majority of airline operations

The terminals are connected via a footbridge, making navigation straightforward. Departures are on the upper level and arrivals on the lower floor. The airport separates Schengen and non-Schengen flights into different areas within the terminal.

SKG is a hub for Aegean Airlines and Olympic Air, with significant operations from low-cost carriers including Ryanair, Wizz Air, and easyJet. Major European carriers like Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines also serve the airport with connections to their respective hubs.

SKG is located 13 km (8 miles) southeast of Thessaloniki city center. Travel times depend on traffic but are generally manageable:

Method	Time to City Center	Cost
Taxi	25-30 min	EUR 24 (USD 26) daytime
Bus 01X	40-45 min	EUR 2 (USD 2.20)
Bus 01N (night)	40-45 min	EUR 2 (USD 2.20)
Private transfer	25-30 min	From EUR 24 (USD 26)

Traffic is lighter than Athens, making road transport more predictable. Rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM) can add 10-15 minutes.

Important: Uber does not operate in Greece due to regulatory restrictions. The primary rideshare alternative is BEAT, which works similarly to Uber.

Taxis

Official taxis use flat-rate pricing from the airport:

Destination	Daytime Fare	Night Fare (00:00-05:00)
City center	EUR 24 (USD 26)	EUR 32 (USD 35)
KTEL bus station	EUR 24 (USD 26)	EUR 32 (USD 35)
Railway station	EUR 24 (USD 26)	EUR 32 (USD 35)
Halkidiki (Kassandra)	EUR 80-100 (USD 87-109)	EUR 110-140 (USD 120-152)
Halkidiki (Sithonia)	EUR 100-130 (USD 109-141)	EUR 140-170 (USD 152-185)

Important taxi tips:

• Use official taxis from the designated rank outside arrivals
• Flat rates are per taxi, not per person (up to 4 passengers)
• Confirm the flat rate before departure
• Night rates apply from midnight to 5:00 AM
• Additional charges: luggage (EUR 0.43), airport pickup fee (EUR 3.47)
• Payment in cash or card (confirm card acceptance beforehand)

BEAT (Recommended Rideshare)

BEAT is the dominant rideshare app in Greece.

• Fare to city center: EUR 20-28 (USD 22-30) depending on traffic
• Pickup: Standard pickup at arrivals level
• Payment: Through app (card) or cash
• Availability: Reliable 24/7

Tip: Download BEAT before arrival and add a payment method. It often undercuts taxi fares.

Private Transfers

• Welcome Pickups: Pre-booked transfers with meet-and-greet service
• Blacklane: Premium sedan service for business travelers
• Hotel shuttles: Many hotels offer airport transfer services

Bus 01X (Daytime - Recommended)

The 01X Express Bus connects SKG to Thessaloniki city center.

Fare: EUR 2 (USD 2.20) one-way

Journey time: 40-45 minutes to city center

Frequency: Every 20-25 minutes (every 15-20 minutes in July/August)

Operating hours: 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Route: Airport to KTEL Macedonia Bus Station via city center

How to take the 01X:

1. Exit arrivals and turn right
2. Bus stop is directly outside Terminal 1 arrivals
3. Purchase ticket at the kiosk (EUR 2)
4. Board the 01X bus
5. Exit at Aristotelous Square or KTEL station

Bus 01N (Night Service)

The 01N Night Bus provides 24-hour coverage.

Fare: EUR 2 (USD 2.20) one-way

Journey time: 40-45 minutes

Frequency: Every 30 minutes

Operating hours: 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM

Bus 02X (Metro Connection)

Note: The Thessaloniki Metro opened in 2024 but does not yet reach the airport. The 02X bus connects SKG to Nea Elvetia metro station.

• Fare: EUR 2 (USD 2.20) per leg (EUR 4 total with metro)
• Journey time: 35 minutes to metro, then 15-20 minutes to city center
• When to use: If your destination is near a metro station on Line 1

Future development: A metro extension to the airport is planned but not expected for several years.

Night Transport

After 11:00 PM:

• 01N Night Bus: Runs every 30 minutes (EUR 2)
• Taxi: EUR 32 flat rate to city center (night rate)
• BEAT: Available 24/7

SKG offers multiple parking options with varying price points.

Airport Parking

Lot	Type	Daily Rate	Notes
P4	Short-term	EUR 24/day (USD 26)	First hour EUR 4, then EUR 2/hour
P6	Long-term	EUR 12/first day (USD 13)	EUR 5/day for weekly stays
P7	Long-term	EUR 12/first day (USD 13)	Short walk to terminal
P8	Economy	EUR 8/day (USD 8.70)	Best value, EUR 3-4/day for weekly stays

Tips

• First 20 minutes free in all lots (ideal for pickups/drop-offs)
• P8 Economy offers the best value for trips over 2 days
• P4 is most convenient for short stays and quick pickups
• All lots are unsheltered (open-air) and within walking distance
• 24-hour security and monitoring
• Off-site alternatives: Alpha Park and Ikaros Aeropark offer lower rates with free shuttle service

SKG offers a reasonable selection of dining options, concentrated primarily in Terminal 2.

Terminal 2 (Main Departures)

Airside (After Security):

• Burger King: Fast food, opened 2025
• Coffee shops: Various options including Greek and international chains
• Snack bars: Quick bites and sandwiches

Landside (Before Security):

• Cafes: Coffee and light meals near check-in
• Kiosks: Snacks, drinks, and basics

Best Bets

• For a quick meal: Burger King or snack bars airside
• For coffee: Greek-style coffee chains offer excellent freddo espresso
• For last-minute snacks: Kiosks near gates

Tips:

• Prices are elevated compared to city prices (expect 40-60% more)
• Limited 24-hour options - eat in the city if arriving late
• Grab a spanakopita (spinach pie) or tyropita (cheese pie) for an authentic Greek snack

Free WiFi is available throughout SKG.

Network name: "SKG Free WiFi" (provided by Skytelecom)

How to connect:

1. Select the free WiFi network
2. Accept terms and conditions
3. Browse

Details:

• Free duration: Unlimited
• Speed: Adequate for browsing and email; streaming may buffer
• Coverage: Both terminals

Tips:

• Connection can be unstable during peak periods
• Consider purchasing a local SIM for reliable connectivity
• Lounge WiFi offers faster, more reliable speeds

SIM cards are available at the airport from Connect Phone in the arrivals area.

Airport Locations

Arrivals Hall (Terminal 1):

• Connect Phone: SIM cards with data and calling for Greece, Europe, and international

Major Greek Carriers

• Cosmote: Best coverage nationwide, especially recommended for island travel
• Vodafone: Strong network, good tourist plans
• Wind (Nova): Budget-friendly, decent coverage

Pricing

Prepaid tourist SIMs typically cost EUR 12-25 (USD 13-27):

• EUR 12-15 (USD 13-16): 5-10GB data, valid 30 days
• EUR 20-25 (USD 22-27): 15-30GB data, unlimited Greek calls

Required for purchase: Passport or ID (photo copy required for registration)

Tips:

• Cosmote generally has the best coverage - important for Halkidiki and island visits
• Airport prices may be slightly higher than city shops
• Consider eSIM options (Airalo, Holafly) for immediate connectivity
• EU roaming is included for travel within Europe

ATMs are located throughout the terminal, both landside and airside.

Major banks with ATMs at SKG:

• Eurobank
• National Bank of Greece
• Alpha Bank
• Piraeus Bank

Locations: Near arrivals exits, in the departures hall, and throughout airside areas

Currency: Euro (EUR)

Currency exchange: Bureaux de change are available but offer poor rates. Use ATMs for better rates.

Tips:

• Greek ATMs may offer "dynamic currency conversion" - always decline and choose to be charged in euros
• Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in Thessaloniki
• Halkidiki beach towns and smaller businesses often prefer cash
• Carry EUR 50-100 in cash for smaller purchases and tips
• Notify your bank before traveling to avoid card blocks

SKG offers duty-free shopping concentrated in Terminal 2.

Duty-Free

Hellenic Duty Free Shops operates the main duty-free stores:

• Located airside in Terminal 2 (departures area)
• Open 24 hours, 7 days a week
• Greek wines, spirits (ouzo, tsipouro, Metaxa)
• Greek olive oil and food products
• International perfumes and cosmetics
• Tobacco products
• Fashion accessories

Notable Products

• Greek wines: Assyrtiko, Xinomavro
• Greek spirits: Ouzo, tsipouro, Metaxa brandy
• Local food: Olive oil, olives, honey, halva
• Cosmetics: Korres (Greek natural cosmetics)

Tips:

• Non-EU residents can claim VAT refunds on purchases over EUR 50
• Food products must comply with your destination's import rules
• Pre-order online at thessaloniki.shopdutyfree.com for pickup

Priority Pass Lounges

The Lounge Thessaloniki (Terminal 2, Mezzanine Level)

• Part of Global Lounge Network
• Access: Priority Pass, LoungeKey, day pass purchase
• Location: After security, turn right past duty-free, take stairs/lift to mezzanine
• Amenities: Freshly prepared meals, local wines, alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, coffee/tea, children's playroom, quiet "Zen" room, fast WiFi, AC/USB charging
• Quality: Modern design, opened 2025, generally uncrowded

Airline Lounges

Aegean Business Lounge (Terminal 2, Airside)

• Access: Aegean/Olympic Business Class, Star Alliance Gold members
• Amenities: Coffee area, dining section with hot/cold buffet, Greek pastries, local desserts, free WiFi, USB charging
• Special feature: Dedicated gate for direct boarding without queuing
• Quality: Modern, spacious (500+ sq meters), one of the better regional lounges in Greece

Skyserv Manolis Andronikos Lounge

• Location: Terminal 2, Airside, next to Gate 12
• Access: Prepaid lounge passes, some credit cards

Pay-Per-Use

Day passes available at lounges (EUR 35-45 / USD 38-49), bookable through LoungeBuddy or at the door.

Hotels near SKG are limited compared to Athens, with most options in the city center or along the coast.

Near the Airport

• Hyatt Regency Thessaloniki: 5-star hotel 5 km from airport, full-service with restaurants, pool, and conference facilities. Most convenient for early departures (EUR 150-250/night).

Thessaloniki City Center

Most travelers stay in the city center, which offers better value and access to restaurants and attractions. The 01X bus makes the airport easily accessible.

• Electra Palace Thessaloniki: 5-star on Aristotelous Square with rooftop pool
• The Excelsior: Boutique hotel near White Tower
• Budget options: Numerous 3-star hotels around Egnatia Street

Tips:

• City center hotels offer better value and dining options than airport area
• With the 25-minute taxi ride, staying near the airport is only worthwhile for very early flights
• For Halkidiki trips, consider staying at the beach rather than near the airport

Thessaloniki is Greece's second city, a vibrant cultural hub with 2,300 years of history, excellent food, and access to stunning beaches. From SKG:

Getting to Key Attractions

Attraction	Travel Time from Airport	Route
White Tower	30-40 min	Taxi or 01X bus to waterfront
Aristotelous Square	35-45 min	01X bus direct
Rotunda & Arch of Galerius	35-45 min	01X bus to Kamara
Ano Poli (Upper Town)	45-55 min	Taxi recommended
Halkidiki beaches	1-2 hours	Taxi, rental car, or KTEL bus
Mount Olympus	1.5 hours	Rental car or organized tour

Must-See Attractions

Roman & Byzantine Sites (UNESCO World Heritage):

• White Tower: Thessaloniki's iconic landmark on the waterfront, with museum inside
• Rotunda: Impressive 4th-century Roman structure with Byzantine mosaics
• Arch of Galerius (Kamara): Roman triumphal arch with battle reliefs
• Church of Agios Dimitrios: Patron saint's church with remarkable mosaics and crypt
• Roman Forum (Agora): Ancient marketplace with small theater
• Ano Poli (Upper Town): Byzantine walls, traditional houses, stunning views

Museums:

• Archaeological Museum: Macedonian artifacts, including finds from Alexander the Great's era
• Museum of Byzantine Culture: Excellent collection of Byzantine art
• Jewish Museum: Commemorates Thessaloniki's significant Jewish heritage

Halkidiki Beaches

Halkidiki, with its three "fingers" (Kassandra, Sithonia, and Mount Athos), offers some of Greece's best beaches:

Kassandra Peninsula (closest, 1-1.5 hours):

• Kallithea, Sani, Possidi
• Most developed, best nightlife
• Good for families and beach clubs

Sithonia Peninsula (1.5-2 hours):

• Kavourotripes (Orange Beach), Vourvourou, Porto Koufo
• More natural, less developed
• Best for peace and crystal-clear water

Getting to Halkidiki:

• Rental car: Most flexible option (1-2 hours depending on destination)
• KTEL bus: From KTEL Halkidiki station (take bus 45 from city), EUR 8-15 one-way
• Private transfer: EUR 80-150 depending on destination
• Organized tour: Day trips available from EUR 50

Day Trips from Thessaloniki

• Mount Olympus: Greece's highest peak, mythological home of the gods (1.5 hours)
• Vergina: Royal tombs of ancient Macedonian kings, UNESCO site (1 hour)
• Pella: Birthplace of Alexander the Great (45 minutes)
• Meteora: Dramatic monasteries on rock pillars (3 hours, overnight recommended)
• Kavala: Picturesque port city with Ottoman old town (1.5 hours)

Food Essentials

Thessaloniki is considered Greece's culinary capital:

• Bougatsa: Cream or cheese-filled phyllo pastry - the city's signature breakfast
• Gyros and souvlaki: Some of Greece's best at neighborhood shops
• Seafood: Fresh fish at waterfront tavernas in Kalamaria
• Meze: Small plates with ouzo or tsipouro
• Trigona Panoramatos: Triangle-shaped cream pastries from Panorama neighborhood

Dining tips:

• Greeks eat late: lunch 2-4 PM, dinner 9-11 PM
• Ladadika district has the best concentration of restaurants and bars
• Bit Bazaar and Kapani Market are excellent for street food
• Try freddo espresso or freddo cappuccino - Greece's iced coffee obsession

Neighborhoods to Explore

• Aristotelous Square: Grand waterfront square, cafes, starting point for walks
• Ladadika: Historic warehouse district, now packed with restaurants and bars
• Ano Poli (Upper Town): Ottoman-era houses, Byzantine walls, panoramic views
• Navarinou Square: Student hangout, cafes, alternative vibe
• Kalamaria: Seaside suburb with excellent seafood restaurants

Practical Tips

• Best time to visit: Spring (April-June) and fall (September-October) for mild weather
• Summer warning: July-August can exceed 40C (104F) - visit beaches instead
• Language: English widely spoken in tourist areas
• Walking: City center is walkable along the 5 km waterfront promenade
• Safety: Thessaloniki is very safe, including at night