13 hr(s), 20 mins
Travel from Kuala Lumpur to Athens: Comprehensive Flight Route Guide
Kuala Lumpur and Athens: two vibrant capitals connecting Southeast Asia with the enchanting land of Greece. Whether your journey is for business, leisure, or a grand adventure, understanding the best ways to fly between these two cities ensures a smooth, memorable trip. This guide explores your options for traveling from Kuala Lumpur to Athens, with a focus on the best layover flight routes, detailed airport information, travel tips, and highlights for your visit to Athens.
There are currently no direct flights available from Kuala Lumpur to Athens. All routes require at least one layover, often in major Middle Eastern, Southeast Asian, or European hub airports.
For your journey from Kuala Lumpur to Athens, a variety of layover routes are available. Each offers unique advantages, whether you prioritize the shortest total travel time, prefer a specific airline, or wish to experience different airports. Here are the main routes currently available:
Airlines: Scoot
Total Flight Duration: 14h 10m
Aircraft: Boeing 787
Layover: Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), 1h 0m (overnight)
Scoot is known for its modern Dreamliner fleet, providing a smooth and comfortable journey with wider seats, enhanced humidity, and large cabin windows for a more pleasant long-haul experience.
Airlines: Qatar Airways
Total Flight Duration: 14h 0m
Aircraft: Boeing 777, Boeing 787
Layover: Hamad International Airport (DOH), 2h 5m
Qatar Airways offers a seamless connection through Doha, one of the world's most efficient and traveler-friendly airports, with minimal layover time.
Airlines: Emirates
Total Flight Duration: 15h 10m
Aircraft: Boeing 777
Layover: Dubai International Airport (DXB), 3h 10m
Emirates provides top-notch service and amenities, connecting through their state-of-the-art Dubai hub.
Airlines: Etihad
Total Flight Duration: 13h 20m
Aircraft: Boeing 787-10, Airbus A321neo
Layover: Zayed International Airport (AUH), 1h 25m (overnight)
Etihad’s flights combine efficient connections and excellent inflight comfort.
Airlines: EVA Air, Aegean
Total Flight Duration: 30h 45m
Aircraft: Boeing 777, Boeing 787, Airbus A321
Layovers:
Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), 6h 5m
Vienna International Airport (VIE), 4h 35m (overnight)
A scenic multi-stop journey, offering the chance to experience airports in both Asia and Europe.
Airlines: Emirates
Total Flight Duration: 30h 15m
Aircraft: Boeing 777
Layover: Dubai International Airport (DXB), 18h 10m (overnight)
For those seeking a longer stop in Dubai, perhaps to explore the city, this route offers an extensive layover.
Airlines: Ethiopian
Total Flight Duration: 34h 45m
Aircraft: Boeing 787, Boeing 737MAX 8 Passenger
Layovers:
Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), 1h 25m
Bole Addis Ababa International Airport (ADD), 17h 30m (overnight)
Ethiopian Airlines connects through two continents for an adventurous journey.
Airlines: Emirates
Total Flight Duration: 17h 45m
Aircraft: Airbus A380, Boeing 777
Layover: Dubai International Airport (DXB), 5h 45m
Enjoy the luxury of the Emirates A380 for part of your journey.
Airlines: Emirates
Total Flight Duration: 24h 50m
Aircraft: Boeing 777
Layover: Dubai International Airport (DXB), 12h 40m (overnight)
A longer Dubai layover provides time for relaxation or a brief city tour.
Airlines: Malaysia Airlines, Qatar Airways
Total Flight Duration: 15h 0m
Aircraft: Airbus A350, Airbus A320
Layover: Hamad International Airport (DOH), 3h 0m (overnight)
A combined service from Malaysia’s and Qatar’s flag carriers for a smooth transition in Doha.
Airlines: Emirates, Aegean
Total Flight Duration: 14h 0m
Aircraft: Boeing 777, Airbus A320neo
Layover: Dubai International Airport (DXB), 1h 45m
A swift transfer in Dubai, connecting directly to Aegean’s Athens-bound flight.
Information about schedule and airline subject to change based on airline policy. Please check regularly at Traveloka App.
Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is located approximately 45 kilometers south of Kuala Lumpur city center, in Sepang, Selangor. The airport serves as the primary international gateway for Malaysia and is renowned for its efficiency and modern infrastructure.
Learn more about Kuala Lumpur International AirportKLIA comprises two terminals: KLIA Main Terminal and KLIA2. The Main Terminal handles most full-service airlines, while KLIA2 is dedicated to low-cost carriers. Both terminals are connected by a high-speed Express Rail Link (ERL) and a free shuttle bus service, ensuring easy transit between flights.
Express Rail Link (ERL): The KLIA Ekspres train offers the fastest transfer from KL Sentral (city center) to the airport in about 28 minutes.
Airport Buses: Various bus operators provide affordable connections between the airport and Kuala Lumpur, as well as other nearby cities.
Taxi and Rideshare: Taxi services and ridesharing apps like Grab are widely available for 24/7 transfers to and from KLIA.
Private Car: Secure, long-term parking is available at both terminals for travelers preferring to drive.
Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminals
An extensive range of dining options, from Malaysian cuisine to international fast food
Duty-free shopping and luxury retail boutiques
Prayer rooms, baby care facilities, and medical clinics
Premium lounges for business and first-class travelers
Luggage storage services
Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (ATH) is the largest and busiest airport in Greece, situated approximately 20 kilometers east of central Athens in the suburb of Spata.
Discover more about Eleftherios Venizelos International AirportAthens International Airport has a Main Terminal and a Satellite Terminal connected via an underground walkway. The terminals cater to both domestic and international flights and are well-equipped to handle high passenger volumes with efficiency.
Metro: The Athens Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) connects the airport directly to Syntagma Square in the city center in about 40 minutes.
Suburban Railway: The Proastiakos suburban railway offers frequent connections to Athens, Piraeus, and other major cities.
Airport Buses: Several express bus lines operate 24/7 between the airport and key destinations throughout Athens.
Taxi: Taxi ranks are available outside the arrivals level, providing a direct transfer to any part of Athens.
Car Rentals: International and local rental companies operate from the airport, with desks in the arrivals area.
Free high-speed Wi-Fi for all passengers
A wide selection of restaurants and cafes serving Greek and international cuisine
Shopping outlets, including duty-free and local Greek specialties
Business lounges and VIP services
Luggage storage and banking facilities
Medical services and pharmacies
1. What is the average total travel time from Kuala Lumpur to Athens?
Most layover flights from Kuala Lumpur to Athens range from 13 to 35 hours, depending on the route, number of layovers, and their durations.
2. Are there any direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Athens?
No, there are currently no direct flights. All routes require at least one layover.
3. Which airlines operate flights on this route?
Key airlines include Scoot, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad, EVA Air, Aegean, Ethiopian Airlines, and Malaysia Airlines in various combinations.
4. What are the most popular layover cities?
The most common layover hubs are Singapore, Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Taoyuan (Taipei), Vienna, and Addis Ababa.
5. How early should I arrive at Kuala Lumpur International Airport for international flights?
It is advisable to arrive at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure to allow ample time for check-in, security, and immigration.
6. What is the baggage allowance for these flights?
Baggage allowances vary by airline and ticket class. It is best to check your specific airline’s policy when booking.
7. Are overnight layovers common on this route?
Yes, several routes feature overnight layovers, especially when connecting through major hubs. Consider reviewing airport lounges and nearby hotels if an overnight stay is required.
8. Do I need a transit visa for layovers in certain countries?
Check the visa policies of the countries where your layovers occur. In most cases, if you remain in the airport transit area, a visa is not required, but it is essential to verify before travel.
Aside from air travel, overland and sea routes between Kuala Lumpur and Athens are extremely time-consuming and complex, involving multiple transfers across countries and continents. If you choose to travel by land and ferry:
Overland Route: Train or bus from Kuala Lumpur north through Thailand, onward to China or Central Asia, and eventually across Europe to Greece. This journey can take several weeks and requires multiple visas and border crossings.
Combined Sea and Land: An overland journey to a major Asian port, followed by a cargo or passenger ship to Europe, then train or bus to Athens. This route is rarely used by tourists due to the logistical complexity and duration.
Flights remain vastly superior in terms of convenience, safety, and time.
The Acropolis & Parthenon: The iconic hilltop citadel and temple complex, a symbol of ancient Greek civilization.
Plaka District: The city’s oldest neighborhood, famed for its winding streets, neoclassical architecture, and vibrant atmosphere.
National Archaeological Museum: One of the world’s premier museums, housing masterpieces from Greek history and myth.
Monastiraki Flea Market: A bustling market filled with antiques, souvenirs, and delicious street food.
Mount Lycabettus: A hill offering panoramic views over Athens, accessible by a funicular railway or a scenic hike.
Souvlaki: Grilled meat skewers served with pita, fries, salad, and traditional tzatziki sauce.
Moussaka: Layers of eggplant, potatoes, ground meat, and béchamel sauce, baked to golden perfection.
Spanakopita: Savory spinach and feta pie wrapped in crispy filo pastry.
Gyros: Rotisserie-cooked meat served in pita bread with vegetables and sauces.
Loukoumades: Greek-style fried dough balls drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon or nuts.
Whether you are navigating busy airports or savoring Greek culinary delights, your trip from Kuala Lumpur to Athens promises adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories. Ready to book your flight? Explore your options and secure your ticket with Traveloka today.
Flight Duration | 13 hr(s) 20 mins |
Airport in Kuala Lumpur | |
Airport in Athens |