El Al flights to Athens: weekly frequency, flight time and alternatives
Tel Aviv–Athens is one of the busiest routes from Ben Gurion. El Al flies it directly almost every day, but many other airlines do too. Here is the comparison.
- According to Kupi data, El Al runs about 12 direct flights a week from Tel Aviv to Athens, with a flight time of about 2 hours 10 minutes.
- Aegean, Arkia, Israir, Wizz Air and Sky Express also fly the route, adding up to dozens of flights a week.
- The number of flights changes by season, so always check the current schedule on the airline's site.
If you want an Israeli airline, you have three choices on this route: El Al, Arkia and Israir. For a lower fare, also compare Greek airlines and Wizz Air.
How many El Al flights are there to Athens?
According to Kupi's data for the Tel Aviv–Athens route, El Al runs about 12 direct flights a week, usually at least one a day and two on some days. Flight time is about 2 hours 10 minutes from Ben Gurion to Athens Eleftherios Venizelos airport. The number of flights changes with the season and airline decisions, so always check the current schedule on El Al's site.
Who else flies Tel Aviv to Athens?
Athens is one of the busiest destinations from Ben Gurion. According to the same data, these airlines fly the route direct:
| Airline | Direct flights per week (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Aegean | 14 |
| Arkia | 13 |
| El Al | 12 |
| Israir | 10 |
| Wizz Air (Wizz Air Malta) | 5 |
| Sky Express | 5 |
| Bluebird | 1 |
The figures are estimates for a typical week and can change from month to month.
El Al or another airline?
- Israeli airline: El Al, Arkia and Israir. Service in Hebrew, and on El Al kosher food on board. Note that El Al does not fly on Shabbat.
- Greek airline: Aegean and Sky Express. Useful if you are connecting in Athens to the islands, since you can sometimes book one ticket to your final destination.
- Low-cost: Wizz Air. The base fare is often lower, but bags and seats cost extra.
Compare the total price, including luggage, not just the ticket.
Connecting flights from Athens
Most Israelis don't stay only in Athens. Athens airport has domestic flights to Crete, Santorini, Corfu, Skiathos and many more. If you plan a connection, leave enough time between flights, especially if you have to collect a bag.
More on flights to Greece
- Flight time from Tel Aviv to Athens
- Direct flights from Israel to the Greek islands
- Entry requirements for Israelis
- Yavanet flights page and the Athens destination page
Tips for booking a flight to Athens
- Compare airlines: with about seven airlines on the route, price differences can be large, especially at holidays and in summer.
- Check the times: some flights leave at night or early morning. Make sure you have transport from Athens airport when you land.
- Luggage: check how many kilos are included and the price of an extra bag before comparing fares.
- Holidays: around Israeli holidays, flights to Athens fill up fast. Book early.
FAQ
How long is the El Al flight to Athens? About 2 hours 10 minutes on a direct flight from Ben Gurion.
How many El Al flights to Athens are there each week? According to Kupi data, about 12 direct flights a week. The number changes by season, so check El Al's site.
Which airline flies to Athens most often? According to the same data, Aegean with about 14 flights a week, followed by Arkia and El Al.
Does El Al fly to Athens on Shabbat? No. El Al does not operate flights on Shabbat, so if you need to fly on Saturday you will need another airline.
