✈️ Flight Guide: New York (Any) → Athens (ATH)

For international departures from New York (All Airports) (NYCA) to Athens International Airport (ATH) in November, arrive at least 3 hours before scheduled departure. November is a shoulder-season month with variable airport crowds and occasional holiday travel spikes (e.g., Thanksgiving week), so extra time for check-in, security lines, and possible rebookings is advised. Use online check-in and monitor airport alerts to shorten on-site wait times.

As of November, most COVID-19 travel restrictions have eased, but entry requirements can change; check both U.S. and Greek government websites and your airline for up-to-date documentation such as vaccination or testing rules. Airlines and airports at NYCA may still recommend masks in crowded indoor spaces and require health attestations for certain ticket types, so verify 48–72 hours before travel. For the latest, consult official sources and add travel insurance if you need flexibility.

Options include long-distance buses, Amtrak and regional rail connections (e.g., to Penn Station for shuttle/airtrain links), rideshare services, and private airport shuttles that serve Newark, JFK and LaGuardia terminals. If flying from JFK, the AirTrain and LIRR offer reliable links; for Newark, NJ Transit and AirTrain Newark are efficient. Plan for extra travel time in November due to holiday traffic and occasional weather delays.

Most airline and independent lounges at NYCA airports operate year-round, though hours can be reduced in low-traffic periods. In November you’ll find full lounge service at major carriers (including food, showers, and business facilities) especially at JFK and Newark; verify access policies and book lounge passes ahead if needed. Lounges offer a good way to relax before long-haul flights to Athens in cooler weather.

Baggage allowances vary by airline and fare class; transatlantic carriers often include at least one checked bag in economy on many NYCA–ATH flights but low-cost or basic economy fares may charge separately. In November, beware of seasonal sales that advertise low fares but exclude checked luggage—read fare rules before purchase. Compare total price including baggage to find the best value.

Travelers often connect to NYCA from Boston, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Hartford, and Portland before flying to Athens. These connecting hubs offer convenient domestic legs into NYCA airports (JFK, Newark, LaGuardia) for international departures. If you’re booking multi-city or positioning flights in November, allow extra connection time during holiday travel periods.

On arrival at Athens International Airport (ATH), expect passport control, baggage claim, and customs. In November, lines are usually moderate outside peak summer months, but allow 30–60 minutes for immigration on busy days or during events. Use the official airport maps and signage, and consider mobile passport or e-gates where available to speed entry.

Athens International Airport (ATH) offers metro (Line 3), suburban rail, express buses (X95 to Syntagma), taxis, and app-based rideshares to the city center and ports. In November, public transit runs on regular schedules with fewer tourists, making trains and buses viable and cost-effective. For nearby destinations like Piraeus, Mykonos (via ferry connection), and Nafplio, plan combined rail or bus plus ferry links and check seasonal ferry timetables.

November in Athens is mild and wetter than summer, with average highs around 17°C (63°F) and occasional rainstorms. Expect cooler evenings and pack a light rain jacket; heavy winter gear is usually unnecessary. Rain can cause delays to ferries and some local transfers, so build flexibility into onward travel plans after landing from NYCA.

Most major attractions in Athens—such as the Acropolis, Acropolis Museum, Plaka, and Syntagma Square—remain open in November with shorter lines than summer. Some island services and smaller tourist businesses may reduce hours, but museums and archaeological sites keep regular schedules, making November a good month for sightseeing without crowds. Check attraction websites for exact opening times and any maintenance closures.

From Athens International Airport (ATH), travelers commonly continue to Piraeus (for island ferries), Mykonos and Santorini (via ferry or short flights), Nafplio, Delphi, and even Thessaloniki for northern Greece. These destinations are popular onward stops for visitors arriving from New York (NYCA). When traveling in November, verify ferry schedules and seasonal service changes before booking.