The cradle of modern civilisation, the birthplace of democracy – Athens has to be one of the most influential and iconic destinations in the world. Book a flight to Athens with Qatar Airways and you’ll quickly discover why this extraordinary city is so important not just to the history of Europe, but to its future as well.

Fly to Athens and immerse yourself in 7,000 years of history and unwrap the cradle of Western civilisation. Founded by the Greeks and occupied by a succession of invaders, this culturally diverse city is home to one of the Wonders of the Ancient World.

Book a flight ticket to Athens with Qatar Airways and walk in the footsteps of Socrates, Plato and Pericles, as you explore some of the finest archaeological sites in Europe

Serving the industrial heartland of China, Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport is one of mainland China’s busiest air transport hubs, and one of the world’s top 30 airports. The airport sees over 42 million passengers every year, and serves the key area of Sichuan Province, one of China’s most important industrial epicentres. The modern and well-run airport is approximately 16 kilometres southwest of downtown Chengdu, and passengers flying from Chengdu with Qatar Airways will find this bright, efficient airport a well-managed and friendly starting point for any journey.

Transportation and parking

Transportation to and from the airport into the centre of Chengdu is excellent, with several shuttle buses running to the downtown area of the city, calling in at the major hotels. The Chengdu-Leshan-Emeishan Intercity high-speed trains have a dedicated station at the airport, connecting travellers from outlying areas of Sichuan Province. The train from South Railway Station takes approximately 10 minutes, with journeys from the East Railway Station around 16 minutes. Taxis are plentiful and as the authorised taxis are state-run, fares are very reasonable and fixed. Parking is very good, with three large parking areas available close to Terminal 1.

Arriving at the airport

Passengers flying from Chengdu with Qatar Airways depart from the Departure area at Terminal 1. With 207 check-in counters and 64 security channels, check-in and processing before boarding your flight is fast and efficient, but make sure all of your paperwork is correct and in order before you arrive. VIP lounges are available for Business and First Class passengers, with a large open lounge area for all other passengers.

Facilities and amenities

Facilities are very good, with dining, shopping, and banking amenities. A business centre is in the Departure building, offering a range of photocopying and fax services. The Duty Free shop is located in a separate area of Corridor A in Terminal 1, while various retail outlets provide magazines, some luxury goods, leather bags, perfume and jewellery. Snacks and drinks are on offer from vendor carts, while several restaurants provide a mix of authentic Chinese food, fast food, and international cuisine. Wi-Fi is available throughout most of the Terminal.

The cradle of modern civilisation, the birthplace of democracy – Athens has to be one of the most influential and iconic destinations in the world. Book a flight to Athens with Qatar Airways and you’ll quickly discover why this extraordinary city is so important not just to the history of Europe, but to its future as well.

Filled with incredible historical sites, Athens is also a modern, working city that is home to nearly four million people.

But it’s the history that most visitors come to experience, and immersing yourself in the relics of the past is a great way to understand so much more about our own modern civilisation, as well as Greece’s incredible past.

Tourist Attractions

Athens packs in the attractions, and at the top of most visitors’ lists has to be the Acropolis, a World Heritage site and standing proud above the city itself. For the best overall view of Athens, especially at sunset, head to Lykavittos Hill.

It’s a hot, dusty climb, but on a clear day you can see beyond the port of Piraeus and out to the islands of Aegina and the Peloponnese.

Back in the city, the Ancient Agora is home to some of the best-preserved temples and monuments from the Bronze Age, and the magnificent Temple of Zeus with its towering columns.

Modern Athens has plenty to offer as well, with dozens of museums and galleries to explore. The best way to see Athens is to take an open-top tour of the city by bus.


Travel Considerations

Flights to Athens with Qatar Airways land at Athens Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport. Visa restrictions for entry into the country will depend on your country of origin, length of stay and whether your trip is for business or pleasure. Before you fly to Athens please check the visa and passport requirements.