✈️ Flight Guide: Durham (RDU) → Athens (ATH)

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) is about 15 miles from downtown Raleigh and is accessible by rideshare, taxi, airport shuttle, or rental car. In May, expect slightly heavier traffic during morning and evening commutes; allow at least 45–60 minutes from downtown Raleigh for rush-hour departures and 30–45 minutes off-peak. For cheaper transfers, consider the GoRaleigh bus plus rideshare combo or pre-booked airport shuttles.

For international departures from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) to Athens (ATH), arrive at least 3 hours before scheduled departure to allow for check-in, security screening, and any additional passport or COVID-19 verification policies. May is a busy month as summer travel begins; using airline online check-in, TSA PreCheck, and printing boarding passes ahead will speed your airport experience.

There are typically no nonstop flights between Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) and Athens International Airport (ATH); routes commonly require one or two connections and are served by major carriers such as Delta, American Airlines, Lufthansa, and occasionally seasonal schedules with European partners. In May, expect increased frequencies on transatlantic legs; check airline schedules and look for one-stop itineraries via hubs like Atlanta (ATL), New York (JFK/EWR), or European gateways such as Frankfurt (FRA) or London (LHR).

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) offers several lounges, restaurants, duty-free shops, and business services across Terminals 1 and 2. In May, lounges may operate extended hours to meet rising international demand; passengers with eligible memberships (Priority Pass, airline-specific clubs) should verify lounge access and hours in advance. Free Wi‑Fi, charging stations, and family restrooms make RDU convenient for travelers headed to Athens or other European destinations.

Yes, Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) provides direct ground transport options to nearby cities including Durham and Chapel Hill via shuttle services, rideshares, taxis, and rental cars. In May, university events in Chapel Hill and Durham can increase demand—book transfers early or reserve a rental car in advance to avoid higher prices and limited availability.

To secure the best airfare from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) to Athens International Airport (ATH) in May, compare fares across search engines, set price alerts, and be flexible with travel dates—midweek departures often yield lower prices. Book 6–10 weeks in advance for May travel, consider one-stop itineraries through major U.S. or European hubs, and subscribe to airline newsletters for flash sales and mileage promotions.

Athens International Airport (ATH) is modern and typically efficient, with clear signage in English and Greek, currency exchange desks, and multiple SIM/rental car counters. In May, expect pleasant spring weather and increasing tourist volumes, so allow time for passport control and baggage claim, especially during afternoons when European and transatlantic flights converge.

From Athens International Airport (ATH), travelers can take the suburban rail (Proastiakos) or Metro Line 3 to central Athens, express bus services, taxis, or pre-booked transfers to Piraeus port and nearby destinations. In May, metro and train services run at regular intervals but expect higher demand on weekends—reserve port transfers in advance if heading to Piraeus for ferry connections to the islands.

Entry requirements can change, but as of May many countries have relaxed routine COVID-19 testing for vaccinated travelers; however, some airlines or connecting countries may require documentation. Always check Greek government and airline advisories before travel, carry proof of vaccination or negative tests if needed, and complete any passenger locator forms required by Greek authorities.

To reach Nafplio, drive or take a bus from central Athens to the Peloponnese; for Mykonos and other islands, transfer to Piraeus port or Rafina port using public transport or taxi, then catch ferries. For Thessaloniki, domestic flights from ATH or long-distance buses/trains are options. In May, ferry schedules begin to ramp up—book island ferries early and coordinate airport-to-port transfers to avoid missed connections.

Athens International Airport (ATH) has multiple currency exchange kiosks, ATMs, tourist information desks, and SIM card vendors in arrivals and the main terminal. In May, staffed tourist desks can help with local transport maps, hotel reservations, and ferry schedules; compare exchange rates and prefer ATMs tied to your bank to avoid high counter fees.

May is a shoulder-to-peak travel month for Athens as warm weather and fewer summer crowds attract travelers, making mornings and late afternoons busiest for arrivals. To avoid long lines, use e-gates if eligible, have documents ready for passport control, use baggage tracking apps, and schedule accommodations or transfers with flexible pick-up windows.