Ellinikon project set to open new Athens tourism attractions in spring 2027
The first phase of Greece’s Ellinikon redevelopment will be completed in spring 2027, delivering new waterfront leisure facilities, luxury accommodation, a marina, a luxury shopping complex and a cultural museum on the former airport site, aimed at expanding Athens’ tourism offering.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- New waterfront, marina, shopping and cultural facilities will open in Athens
- Timing
- First phase completes in spring 2027
- Who is affected
- International and domestic visitors to Athens
The details
- Takes effect
- spring 2027
Project Overview and Timeline
The Ellinikon mega‑project redevelops the former Athens international airport into a mixed‑use coastal district. The first phase, covering the waterfront and the area toward Vouliagmenis Avenue, is scheduled for completion in spring 2027. This marks a major milestone in one of Greece’s largest urban regeneration efforts.
- Construction of the waterfront, residential, commercial and leisure components will finish in spring 2027
- Agios Kosmas Marina construction targets the first half of 2027 with operations expected by summer
- Riviera Galleria construction ends early 2027, public opening planned for September 2027
Key New Attractions
The development will introduce several tourism‑focused facilities. Agios Kosmas Marina will accommodate around 300 vessels, enhancing yachting tourism. Riviera Galleria will provide a luxury shopping destination with coastal design. The former East Terminal will be repurposed as a cultural museum preserving the airport’s history. The Ellinikon Sports Park already offers recreational activities.
- Marina to support Mediterranean yachting visitors
- Luxury retail complex aimed at both locals and international tourists
- Museum to add cultural tourism linked to aviation heritage
Impact on Athens Tourism Strategy
The new facilities are intended to extend visitor stays and lengthen the tourism season by one day and one month respectively. By offering waterfront, cultural and recreational experiences beyond historic sites, the project seeks to diversify Athens’ appeal and encourage repeat visits.
- Goal to increase average visitor stay by one additional day
- Aim to lengthen the tourism season by an extra month
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travelers planning visits after spring 2027 can include the new marina and shopping complex in itineraries
- Visitors arriving before the public opening of Riviera Galleria in September 2027 should check opening dates
Cost and documents
- No new visa fees or documentation requirements are introduced by the project
- Travel costs may be affected by new accommodation options within the development
What you need to do
- Check the operational dates of Agios Kosmas Marina and Riviera Galleria before booking activities
- Monitor announcements for the exact opening day of the cultural museum in the former East Terminal
Who this affects
-
International tourists visiting Athens
New waterfront, marina, shopping and cultural sites will be available to them
-
Domestic visitors to the Athens Riviera
Enhanced leisure and retail facilities will expand local tourism options
-
Yacht owners and maritime tourists
Agios Kosmas Marina will provide upgraded berthing for approximately 300 vessels
Frequently asked questions
When will the first phase of the Ellinikon project be completed?
The first phase is scheduled to reach completion in spring 2027, marking the opening of key waterfront and leisure facilities on the former airport site.
What new attractions will be available in Athens after spring 2027?
Visitors can expect a modern marina, a luxury shopping complex called Riviera Galleria, a cultural museum in the former East Terminal, and expanded recreational spaces such as the Ellinikon Sports Park.
Will the Ellinikon development affect visa requirements for travelers?
No, the project does not introduce any changes to visa fees, documentation or entry requirements for Greece.
When is the public opening of Riviera Galleria planned?
Construction of Riviera Galleria will finish early 2027, with the official public opening targeted for September 2027.
How many vessels will Agios Kosmas Marina be able to accommodate?
The upgraded marina is designed to accommodate approximately 300 vessels, including larger yachts, once operational in summer 2027.
