If you have a layover at Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) or some time to spare before your flight, but not enough time to reach Athens city center, there are plenty of great restaurants and activities nearby. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, a relaxing seaside meal, or something fun to do, the area around the airport offers some excellent options.

Best Restaurants Near Athens Airport

Although the airport itself has several dining choices, venturing a bit further allows you to experience authentic Greek cuisine. Here are some great restaurants near Athens Airport:

1. Mesoghaia Restaurant, Athens Sofitel Airport

Before or after your flight or simply for a special meal, Mesoghaia Restaurant welcomes you at any time of day. Discover quintessential Greek cuisine in a striking rose gold and Oxford blue décor against a classic white marble backdrop. Sample authentic shrimp kritharoto or venture further afield for a Greek twist on other Mediterranean dishes, such as coq au vin with skioufixta pasta. Want something sweet? Indulge an assortment of local pastries or try the fruit salad with lemongrass syrup. Official website.

2. Avra Hotel & Reastaurant Rafina (20 min from the airport)

Get ready for a culinary journey that will blow you away with amazing tasty dishes from the chef and his team. Local, fresh products in exquisite combinations that bring up scents and enhance tastes that will enthrall you! High quality food, in dishes inspired by the Cretan cuisine and the Mediterranean diet, cooked with love and attention to detail! Starting early in the morning, have your morning coffee and energizing breakfast in the buffet, charging you with energy and continue with lunch and dinner made from traditional Cretan recipes. Food in Avra hotel is not just a plain activity, but a significant part adding up to an exceptional hospitality experience! Official website.

3. Taverna Xipolitos, Artemida (15 min from the airport)

This tavern in Artemida (Loutsa), which was loved by Sotiria Bellou and Vasilis Tsitsanis (famous Greek musicians) has been around for over half a century and continues to serve good fish. It owes its name to the father of its current owners, Christos and Fotis, who was a fisherman so he didn’t need shoes; he even went barefoot (xipolitos) to his wedding. The whole environment is reminiscent of an old Greek film with its blue table chairs lined up under huge tamarixes and fish grilled on charcoal. Try classic marinated anchovies, vinegared octopus and fried mullet, for which they are famous and will only serve it if they have fresh from the local trawlers, but also their famous fish soup. Facebook page.

4. Fyki Fyki Restaurant, Porto Rafti (15 min from the airport)

Located near Porto Rafti, this restaurant offers a mix of seafood, pasta, and Mediterranean dishes with a relaxing atmosphere. Facebook page.

Things to Do Near Athens Airport

If you have a few hours to explore, here are some top activities near Athens Airport:

1. Visit the Vravrona Archaeological Site & Museum (15 min from the airport)

Explore the ancient sanctuary of Artemis, one of the most important religious sites in ancient Greece. The nearby museum houses fascinating artifacts from the area. You can combine your visit with the important wetland of  the area to observe the birds that live there, as well to swim at the closest beaches, Vravrona  or Chamolia beach.

2. Relax at Artemida Beach (15 min from the airport)

If you want to unwind before your flight, head to Artemida Beach. You can enjoy a seaside walk, grab a coffee at a beach café, or even take a quick swim if the weather is warm. It’s  one of the most popular beaches near Athens, and probably during summer weekends will be busy, but as  it’s one of the longest too, you will find for sure a place to relax. It’s also one of the beaches you can practice water sports  like surfing.

3. Shopping at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet (15 min from the airport)

For shopping lovers, this outlet mall in Spata offers discounts on major fashion brands. It’s a great place to pick up last-minute gifts or enjoy a coffee before your flight.

4. Attica Zoological Park (10 min from the airport)

One of the largest zoos in Greece, Attica Park is home to a variety of animals, including lions, giraffes, and dolphins. A great stop if you’re traveling with kids.

5. Wine Tasting in Markopoulo (15 min from the airport)

The region around Athens Airport is known for its vineyards and wineries. You can visit a local winery like Ktima Papagiannakos to sample famous Greek wines such as Savvatiano and Malagouzia.

Plan Your Time Near Athens Airport

Whether you’re looking for a delicious meal, a quick sightseeing trip, or some relaxation by the sea, there are plenty of things to do near Athens Airport. Make the most of your time before your flight and experience a little more of Greece’s culture and flavors!