Content Updated 12/15/2024
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Thessaloniki’s international airport, officially named Thessaloniki Airport “Makedonia” (SKG), is a crucial hub for both international and domestic travel in Greece. It connects the city to major European destinations, as well as several domestic airports across the country, making it an essential gateway for tourists visiting Thessaloniki, Chalkidiki, and Northern Greece.
Currently managed by Fraport Greece, Thessaloniki Airport has seen significant development and modernization under its stewardship. Recent upgrades include a new terminal building, enhanced passenger facilities, and improved infrastructure to accommodate growing air traffic. These improvements have been pivotal in handling the steady rise in passenger numbers, especially during the peak tourist season.
In 2019, the airport achieved a milestone by breaking its previous passenger record, with approximately 6.9 million travelers passing through its gates. This growth reflects Thessaloniki’s increasing popularity as a tourist destination and its strategic importance as a transit point for visitors exploring the nearby beaches of Chalkidiki, Mount Olympus, and other attractions in Northern Greece.
Whether arriving for business or leisure, travelers benefit from the airport’s wide range of amenities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, car rental services, and efficient transport connections to the city center and beyond. The airport’s continuous expansion and commitment to quality make it a vital part of the region’s tourism infrastructure.
Where is Macedonia Airport located?
Macedonia Airport, officially known as Thessaloniki Airport “Makedonia” (SKG), is located in Central Macedonia, Greece, approximately 15 kilometers southeast of Thessaloniki’s city center, in the Municipality of Thermi. Its strategic location near the Aegean coastline makes it a vital transportation hub not only for Thessaloniki but also for the wider region of Northern Greece.
Positioned near key highways and well-connected to major urban and tourist destinations, the airport serves as a primary gateway for visitors heading to the cosmopolitan city of Thessaloniki and the pristine beaches of Chalkidiki. During the summer months, when the region sees a surge in tourism, the airport becomes particularly busy, accommodating travelers drawn to the area’s vibrant nightlife, historical landmarks, and natural beauty.
Its proximity to Thessaloniki ensures quick and convenient access to the city, with several transportation options available, including taxis, private shuttles, and bus services like the OASTH public bus lines, which connect the airport to the city center. Furthermore, its central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Chalkidiki’s famous beaches, luxury resorts, and traditional villages, as well as other popular destinations like Mount Olympus, Vergina, and Pella.
This combination of accessibility and connectivity solidifies Macedonia Airport’s role as a key facilitator for both business and leisure travel in Northern Greece.
How can I get to Macedonia airport?
Thessaloniki’s Airport (SKG) is well-connected to a wide range of domestic and international destinations, making it highly accessible for travelers worldwide.
Direct flights from nearly all major European capitals arrive at the airport, including popular hubs like London, Paris, Berlin, Rome, and Vienna. In addition, many flights operate from other significant European cities, such as Cologne, Munich, Frankfurt, Bergamo-Milan, Naples, Barcelona, and Manchester, among others. Budget and full-service airlines alike ensure a diverse selection of options for European travelers.
For passengers coming from the United States, Canada, Australia, or China, direct flights to Thessaloniki are not yet available. However, transatlantic and intercontinental routes are easily facilitated through connections in major European airports like Frankfurt, Munich, Istanbul, or Athens, which offer frequent onward flights to Thessaloniki.
If you’re already in Greece, reaching Macedonia Airport is straightforward, thanks to its network of domestic flights. The airport connects with nearly every major island and city in the country, including Athens, Heraklion, Chania, Rhodes, Santorini, and Mykonos, among others. During the summer months, the frequency of domestic flights increases significantly to accommodate the influx of tourists heading to Thessaloniki, Chalkidiki, and nearby regions.
Travelers can also reach the airport via ground transportation. Thessaloniki’s excellent highway system ensures convenient access by car or taxi, while the OASTH public bus service offers a reliable and cost-effective alternative. Express bus routes connect the airport directly to the city center, providing frequent and affordable service for both locals and visitors.
Whether you’re arriving from abroad or traveling within Greece, Macedonia Airport’s accessibility ensures a seamless travel experience for your journey to Thessaloniki, Chalkidiki, or other Northern Greek destinations.
Which airlines serve at Macedonia Airport?
A wide range of airlines operates at Thessaloniki’s Macedonia Airport (SKG), offering travelers diverse options for both domestic and international routes.
One of the main carriers is Aegean Airlines, Greece’s largest airline, which provides extensive connectivity. Aegean operates frequent domestic flights to popular destinations like Athens, Heraklion, and Mykonos. On the international front, the airline offers routes to Larnaca, Munich, Moscow-Domodedovo, Düsseldorf, Stuttgart, Tel Aviv, and Frankfurt, ensuring strong connectivity to Europe and beyond.
Ellinair, another Greek airline, also plays a crucial role, especially during the summer months when its operations expand to accommodate increased tourist demand. Its domestic routes include Athens and Heraklion, while its international destinations cover cities like Mineralnye Vody, Moscow-Vnukovo, St. Petersburg, Warsaw, Kazan, Baku, Rome, and Odessa.
Low-cost airlines such as Ryanair are also prominent at Macedonia Airport, primarily focusing on international travel. Ryanair connects Thessaloniki to major European cities, including Berlin, Budapest, Bologna, London, Manchester, Copenhagen, Paris, and Stockholm. These routes make it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
Overall, around 50 airlines from approximately 30 countries operate flights to and from Thessaloniki Airport. Notable international carriers include Lufthansa, Condor, Eurowings, Cyprus Airways, Aeroflot, Air France, Wizz Air, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines. This variety ensures comprehensive access to destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.
For long-haul travelers, connections via major international hubs like Istanbul (Turkish Airlines), Doha (Qatar Airways), and Frankfurt (Lufthansa) offer seamless transit to Thessaloniki. Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, Macedonia Airport provides an extensive network of airlines to meet the needs of every traveler.
What will I encounter at Thessaloniki airport?
Thessaloniki’s Macedonia Airport (SKG) has undergone significant upgrades and expansions in recent years, ensuring a more modern and efficient experience for travelers. With a 40% expansion of its facilities and a complete renovation of its runways, terminals, and infrastructure, the airport now boasts enhanced capacity and convenience. The terminal space has increased by 30,988 square meters, offering a spacious and comfortable environment for passengers.
Key improvements include:
A 47% increase in check-in stations, minimizing wait times.
A 75% larger baggage claim area, ensuring smoother luggage handling.
A 50% increase in the total number of gates, making boarding and arrivals more efficient.
An expanded aircraft parking area, accommodating the growing number of flights.
Beyond functionality, Macedonia Airport offers a range of amenities to make your journey enjoyable. You can savor a meal or coffee at one of the restaurants or cafes located within the terminal. For shoppers, the airport features a variety of stores, including those selling traditional Greek products like local delicacies, souvenirs, and artisanal items. Additionally, there are boutiques offering clothing and accessories, as well as convenience stores for last-minute purchases.
Travelers will also find practical services such as a post office, ATMs for cash withdrawal, and dedicated spaces for relaxation before their flight.
For those with an interest in aviation or adventure, the airport’s surroundings have unique offerings. The Thessaloniki Aero Club, located nearby, provides opportunities for guided tours, educational events, and thrilling experiences like skydiving and scenic flights over Thessaloniki and the surrounding areas. These activities offer a unique way to explore the region from a bird’s-eye view.
Additionally, the airport is home to the National Meteorological Service Station, reflecting its importance as a hub not only for travel but also for scientific and meteorological operations.
Whether you’re stopping by for a brief layover or beginning your adventure in Thessaloniki, Macedonia Airport combines modern facilities with unique experiences, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit for every traveler.
Can I travel to Macedonia Airport from Thessaloniki and Halkidiki?
While Thessaloniki and Halkidiki are well-connected to Macedonia Airport (SKG), there are some transportation limitations to consider, particularly in terms of direct public transit options.
Currently, no train or metro line links Thessaloniki city center to the airport. However, travelers can rely on city buses or taxis to reach their destination. The OASTH bus service operates routes such as the 01X (day) and 01N (night) express lines, which connect the airport to Thessaloniki’s city center. While these buses are affordable and convenient for many travelers, they can be less reliable during peak hours due to congestion and crowded conditions, increasing the risk of missing your stop or even your flight.
For greater convenience and comfort, taxis are a popular option for traveling from Thessaloniki to the airport. A taxi ride typically takes about 25-30 minutes from the city center, depending on traffic, and offers a hassle-free way to transport your luggage without worrying about delays.
For travelers coming from Halkidiki, the lack of a direct bus route to the airport presents a challenge. The only public transit option involves traveling first to the KTEL Halkidiki bus station in Thessaloniki and then transferring to an airport-bound bus or taxi. This can be time-consuming and stressful, especially if you’re managing tight schedules or heavy luggage.
Given these limitations, the most practical and efficient option for travelers from Halkidiki is to hire a private taxi or shuttle service. Many local operators offer door-to-door services, ensuring a smooth and timely transfer to the airport. These services are particularly advantageous for groups or families, as they eliminate the inconvenience of navigating multiple transit options.
For those prioritizing comfort and reliability, a private transfer or taxi remains the best way to ensure you arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare, avoiding the unpredictability of public transport. Whether you’re coming from Thessaloniki or Halkidiki, planning your route carefully can save you both time and stress, making your journey to Macedonia Airport as smooth as possible.
How do I travel to Macedonia Airport?
For a seamless and stress-free journey to Macedonia Airport, XLNS Transfer Services offers reliable and professional transportation options. Whether you’re traveling from Thessaloniki, Halkidiki, or another location in Northern Greece, XLNS ensures a comfortable and punctual experience tailored to your needs.
If you’re visiting Macedonia Airport for the first time, XLNS drivers are well-prepared to make your trip worry-free. They provide:
Flight Monitoring: Your assigned driver will track your flight status in real time, accounting for any delays or schedule changes. This ensures that you’ll be met promptly, regardless of when your flight arrives.
Personalized Meet-and-Greet Service: Upon arrival, your driver will be waiting for you in the designated airport waiting area, holding a tablet with your name clearly displayed. This eliminates the stress of locating your transportation, especially in an unfamiliar setting.
Bilingual Assistance: XLNS drivers are fluent in English, making communication easy and ensuring a smooth experience for international travelers.
Luggage Support: Your driver will assist with your luggage, ensuring a hassle-free transition from the terminal to your vehicle.
XLNS Transfer Services is not limited to trips to and from Thessaloniki. Their network covers Halkidiki and other key destinations in the region, making them an excellent choice for those traveling to or from popular tourist areas. Whether you’re heading to the airport for a flight or arriving in Greece for a holiday, their professional drivers are equipped to handle the journey with efficiency and care.
With a focus on punctuality, professionalism, and customer satisfaction, XLNS is an excellent option for travelers seeking peace of mind and convenience during their trip to Macedonia Airport. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group, their reliable services ensure that your journey begins or ends on a positive note.
You can find out more through the booking instructions (https://www.xlnstransfer.com/booking-instructions/ ) or by calling +30 2311 822 644 and 0030 6931 822 644.
