TOP 8 Airlines to Fly to Greece in 2025 (From the US)

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Greece is calling. Whether it’s the sun-drenched islands, ancient ruins, or the vibrant culture, there’s no place quite like it. Having traveled to 65 countries and analyzed over 100 flight routes from the US, I’ve figured out what makes the journey to Greece comfortable, enjoyable, and even budget-friendly. When it comes to flying to Greece in 2025, not all airlines are created equal—some bring you a seamless experience from takeoff to touchdown, while others shine with exceptional service or unbeatable perks.

This ultimate list of the top 8 airlines for Greece-bound travelers is here to help you start your Greek adventure right. From the best for non-stop routes to those with the top-notch inflight meals and spacious seats, these airlines offer a range of options to fit every travel style. So whether you’re island-hopping or diving into Athens’ history, start your Greek getaway with one of these top picks for an unforgettable journey.

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Best Airlines to Fly to Greece in 2025: Carriers with the Best Flights to Greece

From the Acropolis of Athens to the gorgeous beaches of Crete, and the mesmerizing sunsets of Santorini, Greece is a Mediterranean gem. Its unique blend of historic glory, modern attractions, and natural majesty is irresistible. Home to some of the most beautiful cities in Europe as well as some of the most beautiful islands in the world, it’s no wonder that the country sees more than 30 million visitors every year.

Are you looking to explore the historic monuments of ancient Athens? Maybe catch a tan on the island of Kos? Sample the Mediterranean delicacies of modern-day Crete, there’s no end to the fun to be had in Greece. With these top airlines to Greece, though, the good times begin before you even land.

1. 🇬🇷 Aegean Airlines

• 🏛️ Hub: Athens International Airport (ATH)
• ✈️ Cabin Options: Economy, Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles+Bonus – part of Star Alliance
• 🥂 Perks: Authentic Greek cuisine, generous baggage allowance, excellent regional connectivity
• 💡 Pro Tip: Book their “Flex” fare option which allows unlimited changes and cancellations, perfect for flexible Greek island-hopping plans.

Aegean Airlines is not just the flag carrier of Greece, it’s also one of the most respected airlines in Southern Europe. With their fleet of Airbus A320neo and A321neo, Aegean offers convenient connections to Athens from major European hubs where you can connect from New York (JFK), Chicago (ORD), Washington (IAD) via their Star Alliance partners. 

Flying Business Class? You’re in for a real Mediterranean treat: spacious seats with enhanced legroom, priority services, and premium dining that’ll make the journey fly by. Even their Economy Class brings its A-game with redesigned ergonomic seats and complimentary meals featuring Greek specialties that’ll have you feeling like you’re already at a taverna in Santorini.

What really sets Aegean Airlines apart is how they infuse that authentic Greek touch into everything they do. Sip on complimentary Greek wines, savor traditional Greek cuisine, and experience that famous Greek hospitality before you even land. Plus, economy passengers can check one free bag on all flights, so you’ll have room for all those souvenirs.

The airline’s Miles+Bonus loyalty program is your secret weapon if you know how to work it. Tap into those sweet Star Alliance benefits to score reward flights, upgrades, and even partner flights on airlines like United, Lufthansa, and Turkish Airlines. Booking during their “Miles Bonus Offers” promos can unlock major savings (especially during shoulder season).

2. 🇦🇪 Emirates

• 🌆 Hub: Dubai International Airport (DXB)
• ✈️ Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Emirates Skywards
• 🥂 Perks: Complimentary chauffeur service, onboard lounge, shower spa (First)
• 💡 Pro Tip: Look for fifth freedom routes via Athens (ATH) for great deals to Greece

Emirates stands out as a luxury gateway to Greece with their sleek Athens connection. Though not based in Europe, their daily flights from Newark (EWR) to Athens (ATH) offer one of the most opulent ways to reach Greek shores. They operate the impressive Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 on their long-haul routes, bringing a touch of Arabian luxury to your Greek adventure.

Want to feel like Greek royalty before you even land? Their First Class offers private suites with sliding doors, personal minibars, and even an onboard shower spa—talk about arriving fresh. Business Class passengers enjoy lie-flat beds and access to an onboard lounge where you can mingle with fellow travelers. Meanwhile, the newly introduced Premium Economy gives you extra legroom and wider seats without the business class price tag.

When flying Emirates to Greece, prepare for entertainment overload. Their award-winning ICE system features over 4,500 channels of movies, TV shows, and games that’ll make your flight time disappear faster than a plate of loukoumades at a Greek festival. Their catering is equally impressive, with multi-course meals and a wine selection that would make Dionysus proud.

The Emirates Skywards program lets you earn miles that never expire, a huge plus for occasional travelers. Use those miles for upgrades or reward flights across their global network. Pro travelers book during their “Special Offers” periods, when you can snag seats to Athens with serious discounts or bonus miles. 

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3. 🇬🇧 British Airways

• 🏙️ Hub: London Heathrow (LHR)
• ✈️ Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy (World Traveller Plus), Business (Club Europe/World), First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Executive Club (Avios) and Oneworld alliance
• 🍰 Perks: British afternoon tea service, Galleries lounges, fast connections to Greek islands
• 💡 Pro Tip: Use Avios for short-haul flights from London to Greek destinations for amazing value

British Airways brings a touch of British sophistication to your Greek getaway. With frequent flights from major US cities, they offer smooth connections to Athens (ATH) and numerous Greek islands including Santorini (JTR), Mykonos (JMK), and Corfu (CFU) through their fleet, which includes the modern Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

Looking for that sweet spot between luxury and affordability? Their World Traveller Plus (Premium Economy) delivers with wider seats, additional legroom, and enhanced dining options. Step up to Club World (Business Class) for fully flat beds on long-haul flights and dedicated lounge access. The real game changer is their convenient network of flights from London to Greek destinations, making island hopping a breeze.

True British charm defines their onboard experience, from proper afternoon tea with scones to refreshing G&Ts before landing. Their updated food menus feature fresh, seasonal ingredients across all cabins. Plus, economy passengers get one free checked bag, so you can pack extra sandals for those beach hopping.

The Executive Club loyalty program uses Avios points, which are perfect for short European flights. Collect them through credit card partners like Chase or American Express and book flights to Greek islands from London for as little as 4,500 to 11,000 points one-way. Their “Reward Flight Saver” promotions reduce fees significantly, making British Airways an ideal option for Greek island-hopping adventures.

4. 🇹🇷 Turkish Airlines

• 🌉 Hub: Istanbul Airport (IST)
• ✈️ Cabin Options: Economy, Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles&Smiles and Star Alliance
• 🍽️ Perks: Award-winning catering, free Istanbul stopover program, extensive Greek destination network
• 💡 Pro Tip: Use their free TourIstanbul program for layovers over 6 hours to see top sights with free guided tours

Turkish Airlines gives you Greece with a bonus Istanbul adventure thrown in. Their massive hub connects 11 US cities to 15+ Greek destinations, making them a solid choice for reaching lesser-known Greek spots. The real win? You can stop in Istanbul for up to a week at no extra airfare cost and even score a free hotel for longer layovers.

Their Business Class is legendary for having actual chefs on board preparing restaurant-quality meals. Even in Economy, you’ll get hot meals, personal entertainment screens, and amenity kits other airlines reserve for premium cabins. Roundtrip fares typically range from $700-$1,200 in Economy and $2,800-$3,500 in Business, often beating direct flight prices.

What sets Turkish apart is their consistent quality across all aspects of the journey. Their new Istanbul airport features stunning architecture, efficient connections, and decent lounges accessible with Priority Pass. Their planes are mostly new, with modern interiors and good legroom even in the back of the bus.

The Miles&Smiles program flies under the radar but offers serious value. You can book awards from the US to Greece for just 30,000 miles in Economy or 45,000 in Business one-way. Keep an eye out for their transfer bonuses with credit card programs and their “Stopover Special Offers” with discounted hotel packages in both Istanbul and Greek cities.

5. 🇩🇪 Lufthansa

• 🏢 Hubs: Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC)
• ✈️ Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More and Star Alliance
• 🛋️ Perks: Precise German efficiency, extensive lounge network, reliable connections
• 💡 Pro Tip: Munich connections often offer shorter layovers and less walking than Frankfurt

Lufthansa brings legendary German reliability to your Greek vacation plans. With departures from 20 US gateways including Charlotte (CLT), Denver (DEN), and Detroit (DTW), they connect through their Frankfurt and Munich hubs to Athens and seasonal service to Greek islands. Their fleet includes the Airbus A340 and Boeing 747-8 aircraft, with newer A350s operating on select routes.

Going all out? Their First Class offers an exclusive terminal in Frankfurt with private car transfers to your aircraft. Business Class features direct aisle access seats and extensive wine selections curated by Master Sommeliers. The Premium Economy cabin provides 50% more space than regular Economy at prices typically just 30% higher, making it one of the best values in premium travel to Greece.

Lufthansa’s punctuality and efficiency extend to their inflight service. Expect precisely delivered meals with German and Mediterranean influences, attentive but never intrusive service, and clean, well-maintained cabins. Their extensive Star Alliance network means smooth connections and often just one quick stop between most US cities and your Greek destination. 

The Miles & More program offers good redemption rates to Greece, though fuel surcharges can be steep. Watch for their quarterly “Mileage Bargains” promotions, which discount award tickets by up to 50%. 

• Read next: Best Airlines for First Class Travelers

6. 🇶🇦 Qatar Airways

• 🏙️ Hub: Hamad International Airport (DOH)
• ✈️ Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business (Qsuite), First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Privilege Club and Oneworld
• 🌟 Perks: World’s best business class, generous baggage allowance, Doha stopover packages
• 💡 Pro Tip: Book their evening departures from Doha to Athens that arrive in the morning, maximizing your first day in Greece.

Qatar Airways provides a luxurious path to Greece that savvy travelers swear by. Operating from 12 US cities including Philadelphia (PHL), Dallas (DFW), and Seattle (SEA) through their ultramodern Doha hub, they offer daily connections to Athens and seasonal service to Mykonos (JMK) and Santorini (JTR). Their fleet stars the Airbus A350and Boeing 777 equipped with their game-changing Qsuites.

Their Qsuite Business Class has revolutionized premium travel with private suites featuring closing doors and seats that convert into double beds for couples. The “quad” center section can even transform into a four-person family or meeting space. In Economy, passengers enjoy wider seats with generous pitch and thoughtful touches like phone holders and laptop power at every seat.

The Qatar experience shines brightest in their meticulous attention to detail. From welcome drinks served in real glassware in Economy to Business Class dine-on-demand service where you can order anything from the menu anytime during the flight. Their signature Arabic hospitality creates a warm atmosphere without feeling forced. 

Their revamped Privilege Club program now offers better value with Avios points and regular promotions like their “Travel Festival” sales with companion tickets and bonus miles. Their complimentary Doha stopover program includes hotel stays for as little as $14 per night, allowing you to experience two distinct cultures on your way to Greece.

7. 🇺🇸 Delta Air Lines

• 🌃 Hubs: New York (JFK), Atlanta (ATL), Detroit (DTW), Minneapolis (MSP)
• ✈️ Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Comfort+, Premium Select, Delta One
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles and SkyTeam
• 🍹 Perks: Direct seasonal flights to Athens, reliable operations, free messaging wifi
• 💡 Pro Tip: Book Delta-operated flights for better service than their European partners

Delta Air Lines offers that all-American way to reach the Greek isles. Their seasonal nonstop from JFK to Athens gets you from bagel to gyro in just under 10 hours, skipping the headache of European connections. 

Comfort seekers will appreciate their Premium Select cabin, which provides wider seats, extended recline, leg rests, and enhanced dining at a price point between Economy and Business. Delta One business class features fully flat beds and personalized service, while Comfort+ gives budget travelers extra legroom and priority boarding for a modest upgrade fee over standard Main Cabin.

The Delta difference lies in their consistently solid service and reliability. Their Athens flights boast industry-leading on-time performance and among the lowest cancellation rates of transatlantic routes. Their refreshed catering now includes Greek-inspired dishes on Athens routes and free wine in all cabins. Their inflight entertainment offers thousands of hours of content on seatback screens, plus free messaging wifi. 

The SkyMiles program, while often criticized for dynamic pricing, shines with frequent flash sales to Europe. Watch for deals to Athens for as low as 32,000 miles roundtrip in Economy. Their “Delta Vacations” packages can also provide substantial savings when bundling flights with hotels in popular Greek destinations like Santorini or Mykonos.

8. 🇮🇪 Ryanair

• 🏛️ Hubs: Multiple European bases including London Stansted (STN), Milan (MXP), Rome (FCO)
• ✈️ Cabin Options: Standard, Plus
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: None traditional, but offers Ryanair Credit Card
• 💰 Perks: Ultra-low fares, extensive Greek destination network, frequent flights
• 💡 Pro Tip: Book separate tickets to a major European hub, then connect to Ryanair for massive savings

Ryanair is the budget traveler’s secret weapon for exploring Greece. While they don’t fly from the US, combining a transatlantic flight to cities like London, Rome, or Frankfurt with a Ryanair connection creates an affordable path to over 20 Greek destinations including lesser-known gems like Chania (CHQ), Kefalonia (EFL), and Preveza (PVK).

Their stripped-down service model keeps fares incredibly low, with flights within Europe often priced at $30-$100 one-way. The Standard fare includes only a small personal item, while Ryanair Plus bundles priority boarding, two bags, and seat selection. The seats don’t recline and legroom is tight, but for short European hops to the Greek islands, the savings can be well worth the compromise.

Ryanair serves more Greek airports than any other airline, with multiple daily flights during summer season. This creates flexibility that traditional carriers can’t match for island hopping. Their rigid on-time focus means punctual departures, getting you to those stunning Greek beaches without delays. The full cost for a combined trip from the US typically ranges from $600-$1,100 roundtrip.

While Ryanair lacks a traditional loyalty program, their Ryanair Credit Card offers flight credits toward future travel. Their “Fare Finder” tool also displays the cheapest dates to fly, and their “Price Alerts” feature notifies you when fares drop to your desired Greek destination. 

Frequently asked questions about the best airlines to Greece

Now that you know my picks for the top airlines that fly to Greece, you’re almost ready for the vacation of your dreams. There are a just few more things to know. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about the best airlines to Greece, along with my answer. Hope it helps!

What is the best airline to fly to Greece?

When it comes to flying to Greece, Aegean Airlines is one of the best option due to its excellent service and extensive network. For a luxurious experience, Qatar Airways and Emirates are highly regarded. Budget travelers can consider Ryanair and easyJet for affordable options. Other major international carriers like Lufthansa and British Airways also serve Greece. Choose the airline that suits your preferences for a seamless journey to the land of gods and legends.

How can I save money on the best airlines to fly to Greece?

There are a number of ways to save money, even when booking a flight with one of the best airlines to fly to Greece. You can even make first-class airfare affordable if you know what you’re doing. Here are some helpful tips for saving money on airline tickets:

• Be Flexible with Travel Dates: Being flexible with your travel dates can help you find better deals. Consider flying on weekdays or during off-peak seasons when prices tend to be lower.
• Book in Advance: Booking your flight well in advance, preferably two to three months ahead, can often lead to lower fares. Last-minute bookings are generally more expensive.
• Consider Alternate Airports: Check if there are alternative airports near your destination that offer cheaper flights. Sometimes, flying to a nearby airport and then taking ground transportation can save you money.
• Avoid Peak Travel Seasons: Avoiding peak travel seasons and holidays can help you secure better prices. Traveling during off-peak periods can often result in significant savings.
• Be Open to Layovers: Opting for flights with layovers instead of direct flights can often be cheaper. However, consider the duration and location of layovers to ensure they are manageable and convenient.
• Sign Up for Fare Alerts: The best travel hack I can recommend is subscribing to Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) to have mistake fares and other travel discounts sent directly to your email for free. If you’re serious about saving money, you can sign up for a Premium Membership or an Elite Membership for access to more features and better deals. Use my coupon code JON20 to save 20% when you subscribe!

What are the most popular Greek islands to visit?

Popular Greek islands to visit include Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Rhodes, and Zakynthos. You can reach these islands either by domestic flights from Athens or by ferries from various ports in mainland Greece.

Which international airlines offer direct flights to Greece?

Many airlines offer direct flights to Greece. The following is a list of some of the best airlines to Greece with non-stop flight routes. It’s important to note that this list is not exhaustive. Also, many of the best and cheapest international airlines sometimes change what routes they offer.

With that in mind, here are some of the biggest and best airlines with direct flights to Greece:

• Aegean Airlines
• Olympic Air
• British Airways
• Lufthansa
• Turkish Airlines
• Emirates
• Air France
• Qatar Airways
• Etihad Airways
• Swiss International Air Lines
• Austrian Airlines
• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
• Air Serbia
• EgyptAir
• Alitalia
• Air Malta
• LOT Polish Airlines
• Czech Airlines
• TAROM
• Ukraine International Airlines

Which airlines fly direct to Greek Islands?

Dreaming of pristine beaches and charming Greek islands? Let me reveal the airlines that offer direct flights to these heavenly destinations, whisking you away to island bliss.

First and foremost, Aegean Airlines takes the spotlight as the primary carrier providing direct flights to various Greek islands. With an extensive network and a focus on domestic routes, Aegean Airlines offers a convenient way to reach popular island destinations like Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, and Crete. Experience the warm Greek hospitality as you embark on a seamless island-hopping adventure.

TUI Airways, a leisure airline, also offers direct flights to Greek islands from select European cities. With a focus on vacation destinations, TUI Airways caters to travelers seeking a direct and hassle-free journey to the sun-kissed shores of Greek paradise.

Additionally, several low-cost carriers connect European cities to Greek islands. Ryanair, easyJet, and Volotea are among the airlines that offer affordable direct flights to islands such as Corfu, Zakynthos, Kos, and more. These budget-friendly options are ideal for travelers seeking a cost-effective way to explore the Greek archipelago.

While direct flights are available, it’s worth noting that not all Greek islands have airports capable of accommodating large aircraft. Some smaller and more remote islands may require connecting flights or ferry transfers from major hubs like Athens or Thessaloniki.

To ensure you’re well-prepared for your island getaway, it’s essential to research the specific airlines and routes that serve your desired island destination. Flight schedules and availability may vary depending on the season, so plan accordingly and book in advance to secure the best options.

When is the best time to fly with the best airlines to Greece?

One of the best things to do before flying anywhere is picking the right time of year. This depends heavily on your preferences and the experiences you seek. Generally, the most popular periods for flying to Greece are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these seasons, Greece offers pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable prices compared to the peak summer months.

Springtime in Greece brings mild temperatures and vibrant flora. It is an ideal time for exploring ancient sites, hiking through picturesque landscapes, and enjoying outdoor activities without the scorching heat. Autumn offers a similar advantage with comfortable temperatures, cultural events, and the added bonus of harvest season, where you can indulge in fresh produce and traditional celebrations.

However, if your main focus is beach activities and vibrant nightlife, the summer months of July and August are the busiest and most vibrant in Greece. During this time, you can enjoy hot temperatures, endless sunshine, and bustling coastal towns. Keep in mind that popular tourist spots will be crowded, and prices for hotels and flights may be higher.

If you plan to visit the Greek islands, summer is the best time to take advantage of their crystal-clear waters and island-hopping opportunities. Ultimately, choosing the best time to fly to Greece depends on your personal preferences, desired activities, and tolerance for crowds and higher prices.

Which airports fly direct to Greece?

One of the primary gateways for direct flights to Greece from the US is John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York City. As a major international hub, JFK provides connections to Athens, Greece’s capital city, with multiple airlines offering nonstop flights. Whether you’re yearning to explore Athens’ ancient landmarks or venture further into the Greek mainland, JFK is a popular choice for US travelers heading to Greece.

Another prominent airport with direct flights to Greece is Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey, conveniently located near New York City. EWR serves as a gateway for travelers seeking nonstop flights to Athens, opening up a world of possibilities to delve into Greece’s rich history, breathtaking islands, and vibrant culture.

Additionally, Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) in Pennsylvania offers direct flights to Athens, making it a convenient option for travelers in the Mid-Atlantic region. With easy connections from various US cities, PHL provides a hassle-free route to immerse yourself in the wonders of Greece.

If you’re located on the West Coast, San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) are your go-to airports for direct flights to Greece. These major gateways offer nonstop connections to Athens, allowing travelers from the western United States to embark on their Greek odyssey with ease.

Now that you know the US airports offering direct flights to Greece, it’s time to plan your adventure. Explore ancient ruins, bask on sun-kissed beaches, and savor delectable Greek cuisine as you journey through this captivating Mediterranean destination. Get ready to create lifelong memories against the backdrop of Greece’s rich history and stunning landscapes.

What documentation do you need to fly to Greece?

When flying to Greece, you will need certain travel documents to enter the country. Here are the essential travel documents you will generally require:

• Passport: You must have a valid passport to enter Greece. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
• Visa: Depending on your nationality, you may or may not need a visa to enter Greece. Citizens of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and several other countries can typically enter Greece for stays up to 90 days without a visa. However, it is advisable to check the visa requirements based on your nationality before traveling.
• Return Ticket: It is recommended to have a return ticket or proof of onward travel to demonstrate your intention to leave Greece within the allowed duration of stay.
• Travel Insurance: Although not mandatory, having travel insurance is highly recommended to cover any unexpected emergencies, medical expenses, or trip cancellations.

It is essential to check the specific travel document requirements for your country of residence and nationality before your trip to Greece. Contact the Greek embassy or consulate in your home country or visit their official websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding travel documents and entry requirements.