Traveling to Greece offers endless attractions, from historic landmarks to stunning Greek Islands. But before you can relax on a beach in Mykonos or tour the Acropolis, you’ll need to find the best flight deals. Here’s how to book reliable and affordable flights to Greece with confidence.
Major Airlines Flying to Greece
When looking for flights to Greece, you’ll find many airline options from Europe, the U.S., and beyond. Some of the most popular airlines include:
- Aegean Airlines – Greece’s largest airline with direct flights to Athens, Thessaloniki, and several islands.
- Lufthansa – Offers flights to Greece with convenient layovers in Frankfurt and Munich.
- British Airways – Direct flights from London to Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini.
- Ryanair and EasyJet – Budget options for travelers from across Europe.
- Delta and American Airlines – Direct flights from the U.S. during peak seasons.
Booking directly with major airlines can provide a smoother experience with straightforward change policies and better customer support. However, budget carriers offer significant savings, especially for European travelers willing to pack light and accept more restrictive policies.
When to Book for Cheaper Fares
Booking the right flight at the right time can save you hundreds. Here are some guidelines:
- Book Early for Summer – Greece is a popular summer destination. For flights between June and August, book 6-9 months in advance to secure lower fares.
- Avoid Peak Periods – Flights are most expensive around Greek Easter (April), summer (June-August), and the Christmas/New Year period.
- Consider Off-Peak Travel – Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer lower prices, milder weather, and fewer crowds. Winter months (November-March) are the cheapest, especially if you’re focusing on mainland destinations.
According to airfare studies, Tuesday afternoons are often the best times to find discounts as airlines release weekly sales. Setting up alerts on your preferred travel app also helps you spot unexpected fare drops.
Best Online Tools and Apps for Price Alerts
Leveraging online tools can make your search easier:
- Google Flights – User-friendly with price alerts and a “flexible dates” view to compare fares on different days.
- Skyscanner – Aggregates flights across major airlines and budget carriers, showing a calendar view of the cheapest days to fly.
- Hopper – Predicts future prices and notifies you when it’s the best time to book.
- Kayak – Offers a price forecast tool and alert options for flexible travelers.
Setting up notifications on these apps ensures you’ll be among the first to know when prices drop or if an airline has a flash sale.
Identifying Reputable Third-Party Booking Sites
Third-party booking sites often promise discounts but can sometimes lead to complications. Stick to well-reviewed platforms such as Expedia, Priceline, or Booking.com to avoid unreliable services. Read user reviews on Trustpilot or Google to check a site’s reputation before purchasing.
Remember that while third-party sites may offer attractive discounts, changes and cancellations can be more challenging, with policies that often differ from airlines’. Review refund and exchange policies carefully.
Benefits of Booking Directly with Airlines
Booking directly with airlines has several advantages:
- Better Customer Support – Direct bookings simplify communication, especially if you need to reschedule or adjust your flight.
- Flexible Change Policies – Airlines often provide more flexibility for direct bookings, with fewer fees for changes.
- Earn Miles – Booking directly lets you accumulate frequent flyer miles, which can be redeemed for discounts or upgrades on future flights.
- Promotional Offers – Many airlines provide members-only offers, so joining a frequent flyer program can unlock additional savings.
Booking directly also helps you avoid hidden fees, as you’re less likely to encounter surprise add-ons at checkout.
Final Thoughts
Finding affordable flights to Greece takes some planning, but with the right approach, you can save significantly. Compare airline options, use price alert tools, and book in advance for peak seasons. For a hassle-free experience, consider booking directly with the airline, particularly if you need the flexibility to make changes.
Armed with these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the sights, sounds, and tastes of Greece at a price that fits your budget.