Every journey to a new city usually begins at the airport — our first point of contact with the destination. For those visiting Thessaloniki, a vibrant and historical city in northern Greece, getting from the airport to the city center smoothly is the very first step in starting a wonderful trip. This city, known for its Byzantine heritage, lively port, youthful energy, and rich food culture, welcomes travelers from all over the world. But before diving into the charm of Thessaloniki, it’s crucial to first figure out: How do you get from the airport to the city center?
Based on my personal experience, I will describe all the options for transport from Thessaloniki Airport (Macedonia International Airport) to the city center, including journey times, costs, booking steps, pros and cons, and advice for different types of travelers. My goal is to provide you with the most comprehensive and useful information for your first visit to Thessaloniki.
1. About Thessaloniki Airport (Makedonia Airport)
Thessaloniki’s Makedonia International Airport (in Greek: Κρατικός Αερολιμένας Θεσσαλονίκης Μακεδονία), is known by the IATA code SKG. Located approximately 13 kilometers southeast of the city center, it serves as the main air travel hub for Northern Greece. A drive to the city center usually takes between 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and transportation mode. Though it’s not a massive airport, it’s well-organized and modern, offering a range of amenities such as car rentals, currency exchange, cafes, and free Wi-Fi. It serves numerous domestic flights from Athens and other Greek cities, as well as international routes connecting major European destinations. For travelers visiting the cultural, historical, and coastal gems of Northern Greece, this airport is a key entry point.
2. Overview: How to Get from Airport to City Center
Traveling from Thessaloniki Airport to the city center is straightforward, with a variety of options to suit different travel styles and budgets. Whether you prefer a no-fuss taxi ride or an economical bus trip, the choices are convenient and traveler-friendly. There are five primary ways to make the journey:
- Public Bus (Route 78 / Night Bus N78)
- Taxi
- Airport Transfer Service (Private transfer)
- Car Rental / Self-drive
- Ride-hailing apps (e.g. Bolt or Uber)
I’ll break down each option in detail to help you choose what suits your needs best.
3. Public Bus: The Budget-Friendly Option
1. Bus Line Info
The most economical way to reach the city is by taking the public bus. Route 78 connects Thessaloniki Airport with the New Railway Station, passing major downtown points like Aristotelous Square, Egnatia Street, and the Intercity Bus Terminal (KTEL). During late-night and early-morning hours (roughly 11:00 PM to 5:00 AM), the service operates as Route N78.
- Day route: 78
- Night route: N78 (approx. 23:00–05:00)
- Frequency: Every 20–60 minutes during the day
- Travel time: Around 45 minutes (can be longer during peak hours)
2. Ticket Info
Bus tickets can be purchased from a small kiosk in the arrivals area or at machines near the bus stop. The standard single fare is just €0.90, making this one of the cheapest airport transfers in Europe. No extra ticket is required for luggage, which is a bonus for travelers. It’s wise to carry small change, especially if you plan to buy your ticket on the bus, since drivers do not provide change. Many vending machines accept both cash and cards, but having coins on hand speeds things up.
3. Where to Board
The bus stop is located just outside Terminal 1, to the left as you exit the building. There are clear signs labeled “Bus to City Center” and often a schedule displayed. Even late at night, the stop is easy to find, and there is usually a small crowd waiting — a comforting sight for solo travelers.
4. Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Extremely cheap
- No need to book in advance
Cons:
- Slower journey, especially during rush hours
- Can be crowded with luggage
- Announcements are only in Greek and English — stay alert for stop names
Best for: Solo travelers, backpackers, budget-conscious visitors, those with flexible time
4. Taxi: Most Convenient but Pricier
1. Journey & Cost
A taxi from the airport to the city center (e.g. Aristotelous Square) typically takes 20–30 minutes.
- Daytime fare: €25–€30
- Night fare (00:00–05:00): €35 or more
2. Taxi Stand
Follow the “TAXI” signs outside the arrivals hall. The taxi rank is a short walk (~100 meters).
No booking needed — taxis are readily available.
3. Tips
- Make sure the meter is running
- You can ask for a receipt
- You can pre-book by phone to avoid queues
4. Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Fast, door-to-door service
- Great for late arrivals or heavy luggage
Cons:
- Higher cost
- Occasional wait time during peak hours
Best for: Families, business travelers, those arriving late or with lots of luggage
5. Airport Transfer Services: Comfortable & Reliable
1. Booking Platforms
Airport transfer services are ideal if you prefer a smooth, stress-free transition from the airport to your hotel. These services can be booked in advance through several reliable platforms such as:
- Welcome Pickups
- GetTransfer
- Kiwitaxi
2. What You Get
When you book an airport transfer, your driver will be waiting at the arrivals gate, usually holding a sign with your name on it. Vehicles tend to be modern and comfortable — often mid-sized vans, SUVs, or premium sedans — and provide ample space for luggage and passengers. Many services offer optional extras such as child seats, Chinese- or English-speaking drivers, or even help with SIM cards and city tips. This level of convenience is perfect for first-time visitors or travelers with special needs.
3. My Experience
On my second visit to Thessaloniki, I arrived in the evening after a long-haul flight. I pre-booked a transfer through Welcome Pickups, and the experience was excellent. The driver was already waiting when I cleared customs, helped me load my luggage into a clean, well-maintained vehicle, and offered a quick rundown of local tips en route. The entire journey to my city-center hotel was smooth and relaxing, with no need to queue or haggle. If you value convenience, especially after a tiring flight, this option is worth every euro.
4. Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Guaranteed ride regardless of arrival time, even during late hours or strikes.
- Professional and courteous drivers often speak multiple languages.
- Vehicles are spacious, clean, and usually air-conditioned.
- Ideal for families, groups, or those with mobility issues or multiple bags.
Cons:
- Cost is slightly higher than regular taxis, especially for solo travelers.
- Some platforms have strict change or cancellation policies — always check before booking.
- Advance planning required — not suitable for spontaneous travel.
Best for: First-time visitors, business travelers, families with kids or elderly members, and anyone seeking comfort and predictability right from the moment they land.
6. Car Rental / Self-Drive: Maximum Flexibility
If you’re planning to explore northern Greece or visit places like Chalkidiki, renting a car is a fantastic option. The airport has offices for major international rental companies like Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise.
1. How to Rent
Head to the rental desk in the arrivals hall to sign paperwork. Then proceed to the parking lot to collect your car. The process takes ~30 minutes.
Required:
- Passport
- Driver’s license + International Driving Permit (or official translation)
- Credit card for deposit hold
2. Driving Tips
Greece drives on the right. Thessaloniki traffic is relatively calm. The route from airport to city center is straightforward — just make sure your GPS is accurate to avoid small side streets.
3. Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Great for multi-day or countryside trips
- Freedom to stop and explore en route
Cons:
- Higher costs (rental, fuel, insurance)
- Can be stressful for first-time foreign drivers
Best for: Experienced drivers, long trips, regional exploration
7. Ride-Hailing Platforms (Bolt/Uber)
Uber is limited in Greece. In Thessaloniki, Uber operates in partnership with local taxis, so your ride will still be a licensed cab. Bolt has limited availability.
User Experience
- App interface is the same as elsewhere
- Transparent pricing, no negotiation needed
- Downside: Driver availability can vary, especially during busy airport hours
8. My Personal Recommendations
- First-time travelers on a budget: Go for Bus 78
- Late arrival, tired, with luggage: Take a taxi or pre-booked transfer
- Want peace of mind: Choose a private transfer
- Group or family: Taxi or transfer will be more cost-effective and convenient
- Planning a road trip: Rent a car at the airport
My first time arriving in Thessaloniki was around 6 a.m. — I took the bus to save money. It was a bit bumpy, but watching the sunrise made it worthwhile. The second time, I landed at 9 p.m. and chose a transfer service — my driver got me to the hotel in minutes, saving time and energy.
That first step into a new city always brings a mix of excitement and nervousness. Navigating your way from the airport to the city isn’t just logistics — it’s your real first contact with the destination. Thessaloniki may not be as internationally known as Athens, but its transport system is simple and functional. As long as you understand your options, you’ll be exploring this dynamic city with ease.
