โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
120
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Mytilene International Airport (MJT), also known as Odysseas Elytis Airport, is the primary aviation hub for the island of Lesvos, Greece. The terminal is a modern, multi-level facility following a major 2020 expansion, designed to handle a significant volume of domestic traffic from Athens and Thessaloniki, as well as a large seasonal influx of international charters from across Europe. Its contemporary architecture features a spacious departure hall with efficient check-in areas and a centralized security checkpoint that provide a welcoming entry point for travelers visiting this major Aegean cultural and tourism destination.
The terminal experience at Mytilene is professional and highly efficient, featuring climate-controlled waiting areas that provide comfort in the warm Mediterranean climate. Inside, passengers have access to comfortable waiting lounges, digital flight information systems, and clear signage in both Greek and English. The facility is managed with a focus on high-quality service, ensuring that both international holidaymakers and local residents can transition smoothly through the airport. The layout is optimized for efficiency, with dedicated areas for customs and immigration to manage the arrival of major international flights from hubs like London, Berlin, and Amsterdam.
Amenities within the Odysseas Elytis terminal are excellent, featuring a variety of duty-free shops offering local Lesvos products such as ouzo, olive oil, and traditional handicrafts, along with diverse dining options ranging from quick-service cafes to sit-down restaurants. The facility provides essential modern services such as free high-speed Wi-Fi, mobile charging stations, and dedicated family-friendly areas. Outside the main arrivals hall, a well-organized ground transport network is available, including dedicated taxi stands, public buses, and several car rental agencies providing reliable connections to the center of Mytilene and the various coastal resorts across the island of Lesvos.
๐ Connection Tips
Mytilene International Airport 'Odysseas Elytis' (MJT) is the primary and highly efficient aviation hub serving Lesvos Island, Greece. The journey takes about 25 minutes and costs approximately โฌ2. 00. Several major international and Greek car rental agencies, including Hertz, Sixt, and Budget, maintain well-staffed desks within the terminal's baggage claim area. Be aware that during the peak summer months (July and August), the airport handles a high volume of traffic from across Europe, and security queues can lengthen significantly.
Located approximately 8 kilometers south of the Mytilene city center, getting to and from the terminal is well-organized, especially following the major 2020 terminal expansion. Taxis are also readily available 24/7 at the designated stand directly in front of the terminal; a typical 15-minute ride to the city center costs roughly โฌ15 to โฌ20. The terminal itself is modern and spacious, featuring high-quality facilities such as several cafes serving traditional Greek snacks and a variety of retail shops offering local Lesvos products like olive oil and handicrafts. Always carry some Euro (EUR) in cash for bus and taxi fares, though the retail and car rental services readily accept major international credit cards.
For most travelers, the local bus service (KTEL) provides the most economical connection; the bus stop is situated just steps outside the arrivals exit, with frequent links to the central bus station in Mytilene. For those wishing to explore the island's world-class ouzo distilleries, traditional mountain villages, and the scenic resorts of Molyvos and Petra in the north, renting a car is highly recommended. Arriving at least 2 hours before an international charter departure and 90 minutes before a domestic flight to Athens (ATH) or Thessaloniki (SKG) is recommended.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
35
minutes
Domestic โ International
60
minutes
International โ Domestic
60
minutes
International โ International
75
minutes
Interline Connections
90
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Karpathos Island National Airport (AOK) operates with a single, modern terminal building that was inaugurated in 2009 after a significant expansion. Covering an area of 12,500 square meters, the terminal is designed to handle the airport's mix of domestic and international flights, the latter of which are predominantly seasonal, peaking during the busy summer tourist months. The single-story building is relatively easy to navigate, which is a boon for travelers during peak times.
Inside the terminal, passengers have access to a range of essential amenities. For last-minute shopping or souvenirs, a duty-free shop is available, offering a selection of perfumes, cosmetics, tobacco, spirits, and local Greek products. For refreshments, there is a cafe/snack bar providing light meals, sandwiches, and beverages. Several car rental agencies, including both local and international brands, have desks within the arrivals area, allowing for convenient vehicle pick-up upon arrival.
Transportation to and from the airport is facilitated by several options. Public buses connect the airport with Pigadia, the island's capital, and other key locations, offering an economical way to travel. Taxis are readily available from a rank located just outside the terminal building, providing a more direct and private transfer option. For those who have rented a car, a parking area is situated conveniently close to the terminal entrance.
Despite its international status, AOK is a relatively small airport and does not have dedicated airline lounges. Other passenger services include an information desk, an ATM for cash withdrawals, and currency exchange services. A notable characteristic of the airport is its exposure to the strong 'meltemi' winds, particularly during the summer. Passengers are often advised to be cautious on the apron when boarding or deplaning via stairs, as the winds can be quite powerful.
๐ Connection Tips
Karpathos Airport (LGKP/AOK) serves as the primary gateway to this remote Dodecanese island, located approximately 13 kilometers from Pigadia, the island's capital and main ferry port. Transportation options from the airport include taxi services, which provide the quickest and most reliable connection to Pigadia, typically taking 15 minutes and costing between โฌ20-30 depending on destination and time of day. Taxis are readily available outside the terminal building with generally fixed fare structures, though it's advisable to confirm the price before departure, especially during peak tourist season. Public bus service availability from the airport varies depending on seasonal schedules and current operations. While some services may connect the airport directly with Pigadia, travelers should verify current bus schedules at the airport information desk or with their accommodation, as service can be irregular during off-season periods.
If available, buses provide an economical alternative for reaching the capital, where connections to other island villages including Olympos, Arkassa, and Mesochori can be made. For travelers planning to explore multiple Dodecanese islands, Pigadia serves as the ferry terminal with connections to Rhodes (3-4. 5 hour journey), Athens Piraeus (13-20 hours depending on route), Crete (Heraklion and Sitia), Santorini, Anafi, and Kasos. Ferry schedules are seasonal, with more frequent services during summer months. Transportation from AOK to Pigadia ferry terminal takes approximately 15 minutes by taxi, allowing adequate time for onward connections with proper planning.
For air connections, most domestic flights route through Athens (ATH) with Aegean Airlines, Olympic Air, and Sky Express providing regular services. International travelers connecting through Athens should allow minimum 90 minutes for domestic connections, though 2-3 hours is recommended during peak periods to account for potential delays and security procedures. Summer months bring direct charter flights from various European cities, reducing connection requirements. Car rental services are available at the airport for independent exploration, with several agencies maintaining desks in the arrivals area.
โ Back to Mytilene International Airport