Your Ultimate Guide to Ryanair Flights at Thessaloniki Airport (SKG)

Thessaloniki Airport "Makedonia" (SKG) is one of Greece’s busiest and most strategic travel hubs, especially for travelers heading to or from Northern Greece. Among the key low-cost carriers operating here is Ryanair, known for its affordable fares and extensive European network. Whether you're flying for business, leisure, or just a quick weekend getaway, understanding the Ryanair SKG Terminal can greatly improve your airport experience.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about Ryanair operations at Thessaloniki Airport — including terminal details, check-in procedures, arrival information, available services, nearby amenities, and travel tips to ensure a smooth journey.

Overview of Thessaloniki Airport (SKG)

Located about 13 km southeast of Thessaloniki city center, SKG Airport serves as a major gateway to Northern Greece. It handles millions of passengers annually and operates both domestic and international flights. The airport consists of one main terminal building, recently expanded and upgraded to accommodate increasing traffic and provide a modern travel experience.

Despite having a single terminal, the airport is efficiently designed with dedicated areas for Schengen and non-Schengen flights, along with clear signage in both Greek and English.

Ryanair SKG Terminal: Where to Go

Which Terminal Does Ryanair Use at Thessaloniki Airport?

Ryanair operates out of the Main Terminal Building at SKG, using the Departures Hall for check-in and the Gates 10–18 area for most of its boarding operations. These gates primarily handle Schengen-area flights, which includes most destinations in Europe Ryanair flies to from Thessaloniki.

All Ryanair check-in counters, self-service kiosks, baggage drop points, and customer service desks are clearly labeled within this terminal section. Look for Zone C or D, as Ryanair frequently uses those zones for both domestic and international European check-ins.

Ryanair Check-In at SKG

Passengers flying Ryanair from Thessaloniki have two main options for check-in:

Online Check-In

• Available via the Ryanair website or mobile app.

• Recommended for saving time and avoiding airport queues.

• Online check-in opens 24 to 48 hours before departure.

• You must download or print your boarding pass in advance.

  
  

Airport Check-In

• Ryanair charges for airport check-in if not pre-purchased or included in a Flexi Plus fare.

• Check-in counters usually open 2 hours before departure and close 40 minutes prior.

• Airport check-in counters are located in the Departures Area – Check-In Zones C and D.

Tip: Always arrive at least 2–2.5 hours early to account for seasonal crowds and potential security delays.

Baggage Policies and Drop-Off

Ryanair has strict baggage policies. Here's what you need to know:

Cabin Baggage

• Standard fare includes one small personal item (e.g., a backpack or handbag).

• Priority boarding allows one additional 10kg cabin bag.

  
  

Checked Baggage

• 10kg and 20kg options are available for purchase.

• Luggage drop-off is located near the Ryanair check-in area.

  
  

Baggage Drop-Off Tip: Be ready with your printed boarding pass and baggage tag (if applicable). Staff are usually strict about size and weight limits at SKG.

Security Screening at SKG Terminal

Once check-in and baggage drop are complete, passengers proceed to the security screening area, located centrally in the terminal. The process is typically efficient, especially outside peak summer months.

To speed things up:

• Prepare liquids in a clear, resealable plastic bag.

• Remove laptops and electronics for separate screening.

• Wear easy-to-remove footwear if required.

Priority security lanes are available for business and Flexi Plus ticket holders.

Ryanair Boarding Gates and Procedures

Ryanair flights from SKG generally board from Gates 10 to 18, depending on the destination and time slot.

Boarding Process:

• Starts approximately 30 minutes before departure.

• Closes 15 minutes before take-off.

• You’ll need your boarding pass and passport/ID ready at the gate.

Note: Ryanair enforces strict boarding deadlines, and late passengers may be denied boarding without refund.

Arrivals: What to Expect After Landing at SKG

If you're arriving in Thessaloniki on a Ryanair flight:

• You’ll disembark at the main terminal, either through a jet bridge or via shuttle bus, depending on the parking position.

• Proceed through passport control if arriving from a non-Schengen country.

• Baggage claim is located on the lower level of the terminal.

• Exit into the Arrivals Hall, where ground transportation options are available.

Dining, Shopping, and Lounges at SKG Terminal

While Ryanair doesn’t offer in-flight meals for free, Thessaloniki Airport has a decent selection of food and beverage options to fuel your trip.

Dining:

• Fast food: McDonald’s, Goody’s Burger House

• Greek cafes: Everest, Gregory’s

• Snacks & drinks: Coffee Berry, espresso bars, bakeries

  
  

Shopping:

• Duty-Free shops (cosmetics, perfumes, spirits)

• Local souvenirs

• Travel essentials and newsstands

  
  

Lounges:

• Ryanair does not have a dedicated lounge.

• The Skyserv Lounge is available for purchase or through certain credit card programs.

Ground Transportation Options from SKG

Once you exit the terminal, you have several ways to reach Thessaloniki city center or other destinations:

Taxi

• Readily available outside the Arrivals exit.

• Fare to the city center is around €20–25.

• Trip time: 25–30 minutes.

  
  

Bus

• OASTH Bus 01X/01N connects the airport to the city center and main bus station.

• Runs every 30 minutes during the day and hourly at night.

• Ticket: Around €2.

  
  

Car Rentals

• Available inside the Arrivals Hall.

• Major brands include Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and local companies.

Ryanair Flight Destinations from SKG

Ryanair operates various seasonal and year-round routes from Thessaloniki to key European cities. Common destinations include:

• Italy: Milan, Bologna, Rome

• Germany: Berlin, Frankfurt, Dusseldorf

• UK: London Stansted, Manchester

• Austria: Vienna

• Poland: Warsaw, Kraków

• Cyprus: Paphos

Check your ticket to confirm the exact Ryanair SKG Terminal and gate used for your route.

Tips for a Smooth Ryanair Experience at SKG

To make your journey with Ryanair from Thessaloniki Airport even smoother, keep these tips in mind:

• Download the Ryanair app: Get real-time updates on gate changes, delays, or check-in issues.

• Double-check travel documents: Especially when flying to/from non-Schengen countries.

• Pre-book luggage: It’s cheaper online than at the airport.

• Bring snacks: Airport food is costlier, and Ryanair meals are not included.

• Use a digital boarding pass: Avoid printing by using your smartphone.

Accessibility and Assistance Services

Thessaloniki Airport offers facilities for passengers with reduced mobility:

• Wheelchair assistance available upon request.

• Accessible toilets and ramps.

• Priority services for special needs travelers.

Be sure to inform Ryanair during booking if assistance is required.

Lost & Found and Customer Service

Lost Items

• Located within the terminal’s Lost & Found office.

• Operated by the airport authority, not Ryanair directly.

  
  

Ryanair Customer Desk

• Located in the departures area near the check-in zones.

• Use for queries, complaints, missed flights, or ticket issues.

Final Thoughts

Flying with Ryanair from Thessaloniki Airport can be efficient, affordable, and hassle-free — especially when you’re well-informed. With only one main terminal to navigate, the Ryanair SKG Terminal experience is streamlined and easy, whether you're a frequent flyer or a first-timer.

By knowing where to go, what to bring, and how the airport functions, you’ll eliminate stress and enjoy the beginning of your trip from this gateway to Northern Greece.