General Airport Information
Thessaloniki International Airport (SKG) – "Makedonia" is the main aviation hub of northern Greece and the gateway to Thessaloniki, the country's second-largest city. Located in Thermi, about 13 km (8 mi) from the city centre, SKG handles domestic, European and seasonal longer-haul flights. The airport is compact, modern and fully renovated under Fraport Greece, and now handles around 8 million passengers a year (a record reached in 2025).
Terminals
Thessaloniki Airport has two terminals, the Main Terminal and the New Terminal (T2), connected internally by a footbridge. Together they handle all domestic and international flights.
- Main Terminal: arrivals (ground floor), departures (upper floor), shops, cafés and lounges.
- Terminal 2 (T2): 28 check-in counters, 12 gates, duty-free and more dining and retail.
Both terminals are within walking distance, and signage is clear in Greek and English.
Tip: check the departure screens carefully, as some flights board from T2 even if check-in is in the Main Terminal.
Hotels
There is no hotel directly inside the airport. However, several hotels are a 5 to 10 minute drive away, especially around Thermi and Perea. For a wider choice of boutique, chain and luxury hotels, central Thessaloniki is only about 20 to 30 minutes away by taxi, bus or private transfer.
Parking
SKG has five car parks, affordable by European standards:
- P4: short-term, closest to the terminals.
- P3, P6, P7: long-term, with economical daily rates.
- P5: coaches and pre-booked taxis.
The first 20 minutes are free in every public car park, and no booking is needed.
Layover at the Airport
Despite its modest size, SKG has enough for a comfortable layover: cafés, restaurants, duty-free shops, business lounges, free Wi-Fi and seating areas. Note that there are no dedicated sleeping or quiet rest zones, so for a nap you will use the general seating or a lounge.
Ground Transportation
You can travel between SKG and Thessaloniki in several ways:
- Bus (OSETH): Line 1X by day and 1N overnight connect the airport with the city centre, railway station and KTEL; Line 2X links to the city metro at Nea Elvetia. A ticket is €2.00.
- Taxis: from the rank between Terminals 1 and 2; the ride downtown takes about 25 to 30 minutes, on the meter.
- Private transfers: pre-bookable door-to-door services.
- Car rental: several local and international desks in the Arrivals area.
Accessibility & Special Assistance
Thessaloniki Airport is fully accessible, with lift access, ramps, adapted restrooms, priority seating and meeting points for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM). For a smooth experience, request assistance through your airline in advance.
Useful Services & Amenities
- Duty-free and retail shops
- Cafés, restaurants and bars
- ATMs and currency exchange
- Free Wi-Fi
- Business lounges
- Medical / first aid
- Car rental
- Lost & Found
- Facilities for passengers with reduced mobility
Contacts
Official Name: Thessaloniki International Airport "Makedonia"
Address: Airport – Thessaloniki National Road, 55103 Thessaloniki, Greece
Phone: (+30) 2310 985000
Website: https://www.skg-airport.gr/en/
Quick Tips
- SKG is busiest in summer, so arrive early and expect queues at security and check-in.
- The OSETH bus (Line 1X/1N) is the cheapest way to reach downtown, but taxis are quicker.
- Parking is affordable, and the first 20 minutes are free.
- For Halkidiki resorts, pre-book a private transfer for the fastest connection.
- Shops and cafés stay open late but not 24/7, so plan ahead for night flights.
