Intro

Expecting another generic airport lounge with stale sandwiches?

Aegean completely gutted and rebuilt their Athens Airport lounge, creating a proper Greek wine bar with Assyrtiko from Santorini and authentic baklava that’s actually crispy.

They didn’t just spruce things up – they built something genuinely special.

A group of people are standing in front of a sign that says Aegean, showcasing an authentic European business class experience.
Aegean Airlines Non Schengen Lounge Athens

Getting In

The lounge is open daily from 3:00 AM to 11:00 PM in the intra-Schengen area near the B gates, covering most European flights and Greek domestic routes.

You can access it with Aegean Business class tickets, Miles & Bonus Gold status, or any Star Alliance Gold membership.

A group of people enjoying an European business class experience at tables in a restaurant.

One thing to note: if you’re bringing a guest, they’ll likely redirect you to the GoldAir Lounge next door due to space constraints.

Having used both, I suggest trying the Lufthansa lounge instead if you have Star Alliance Gold status and need guest access.

First Impressions

Walking in, you immediately notice the quality of materials they’ve used.

There’s marble throughout, detailed mosaic work, and warm wood finishes that feel genuinely upscale rather than trying to fake luxury.

A group of tables and chairs in an Austrian restaurant.
Austrian Airlines business class experience counter in an airport.
A large marble table in an Austrian restaurant.

The Food

The food selection changes throughout the day, but I was pleasantly surprised by the quality during my visit in the afternoon.

They had prepared quinoa tabbouleh well, with fresh herbs and a light lemon dressing.

Austrian Airlines European business class experience featuring a tray of appetizers on the table.
Austrian Airlines offers a European business class experience showcasing a buffet with a variety of sandwiches and salads.
A buffet offering a diverse selection of salads and other foods, inspired by the European business class experience of Austrian Airlines.
Austrian Airlines' European business class experience showcases an exquisite counter with an array of delectable food options.

The hot options included moussaka that maintained decent texture despite being kept warm, and Greek-style chicken with lemon and herbs that delivered authentic flavours.

The sandwich selection went beyond basic offerings – grilled vegetables and local cheeses on bread that hadn’t been sitting around too long.

A counter with fruit and jars on it, featuring an Austrian Airlines European business class experience.

The Wine

Instead of the usual international wine selection, they’ve created a Greek wine bar featuring bottles from established local producers.

A bar offering an extensive selection of liquor bottles and cans.

tried an Assyrtiko from Santorini, which has the crisp, mineral character this variety is known for, and a smooth Aghiorghitiko red that paired nicely with the cheese selection.

This focus on Greek wines feels genuine rather than gimmicky, and it’s refreshing to see an airline showcase what Greek winemakers can do.

Coffee & WiFi

The Nespresso machine works well and delivers consistent coffee, while the usual soft drinks and juices are available.

A coffee machine is sitting on a counter in the Austrian Airlines European business class experience.

Charging stations are plentiful and actually functional, WiFi performs reliably, and current newspapers are kept near the entrance.

Seating options include dining tables and comfortable lounge chairs.

Austrian Airlines business class experience with a blue wall adorned with magazines.

Conclusion

This renovated lounge creates something genuinely special. The Greek wine focus, quality food preparation, and thoughtful design create an experience that feels connected to the destination.

If you have access through Star Alliance Gold or Aegean status, it’s worth experiencing.

They’ve created one of the better lounge environments in European airports, showing that local culture and quality beat generic size and amenities.

What used to be a standard airport lounge has become something that genuinely enhances your travel experience.

About Aegean Airlines

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