Travelling from Velana International Airport (MLE) to Athens International Airport (ATH): what you need to know
The timezone in Athens is UTC+2, which is three hours behind Malé.
Give yourself enough time to make your MLE to ATH flight. Generally, it's best to arrive at least two hours before international departures and an hour ahead for domestic flights.
You'll likely experience bigger queues during popular months such as December. Arriving up to four hours in advance for international flights and two hours for a domestic departure is a wise move.
Consider adding a stopover when booking your ticket from Velana International Airport to Athens International Airport. Simply uncheck 'Direct flights only' to break up your trip, or enjoy a detour to a new and interesting place. Here are some options between MLE and ATH:
Dubai Airport
Hamad International Airport
Zayed International Airport
Handy information about Velana International Airport (MLE)
77% of flights that leave from Velana International Airport make it to their destination on schedule.
Central Malé to Velana International Airport is around 2 kilometres. Depending on traffic, it'll take about 15 minutes to get there if you're driving, ride-sharing or catching a taxi.
Expect a journey time of around 20 minutes on public transport.
Need a convenient hotel close to MLE? If you're boarding an early flight from Velana International Airport to Athens International Airport, these stays will put you moments from your departure gate:
Arriving at Athens International Airport (ATH)
Consider booking a hotel near ATH if you're taking a late Velana International Airport to Athens International Airport flight. Check in to one of these accommodation options and avoid the hassle of a long transfer:
Get your adventure underway by picking up a Athens International Airport rental car. Grab your wheels from Centauro, Green Motion or Surprice and explore beyond Athens's usual tourist stops.
Secure the lowest price by reserving your vehicle from Athens International Airport around three weeks ahead of your trip.
Getting from Athens International Airport (ATH) to central Athens
Athens International Airport to central Athens has a drive time of around 35 minutes. It's approximately 32 kilometres away.
If you're taking public transport, expect a journey time of roughly 40 minutes.
When to fly to Athens International Airport (ATH)
The quietest month for a flight from Velana International Airport to Athens International Airport is March, while August is the most popular. Choose the ideal time to visit Athens based on whether you prefer a more fast-paced or easygoing experience.
The warmest month in Athens is July, with the temperature ranging between 22ºC and 37ºC. Lock in your flights from Velana International Airport to Athens International Airport in this month if this is the type of weather you like.
Search for cheap tickets from MLE to ATH in January if you like cooler conditions. Temperatures are at their lowest around then, ranging between 4ºC and 14ºC on average.
Explore more of Greece
Thessaloniki is just one of the many places in Greece waiting to be discovered after you've seen Athens. Around 306 kilometres away to the north, popular attractions include Church of Agia Sofia, Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki and Alexander the Great Statue.
If there's time to check out another major stop in Greece, consider Larisa, about 209 kilometres north-west of Athens. Larissa Ancient Ruins, Municipal Art Gallery of Larissa and The Church Of St. George are among the biggest draws.