Picture yourself strolling through the sun-drenched streets of Athens, the cradle of Western civilization. The Acropolis looms above, a testament to human ingenuity and artistic brilliance that has endured for millennia. As you sip a frothy Greek coffee in a charming Plaka café, the realization hits you: you’re walking in the footsteps of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.
But before you can immerse yourself in this captivating blend of ancient history and vibrant modern culture, you face a daunting journey. The flight from the United States to Athens is no short hop across the pond. It’s a transcontinental odyssey that can leave even the most seasoned traveler feeling drained and disheveled upon arrival.
That’s where the magic of business class comes in. As someone who’s traversed this route more times than I can count, I can attest that upgrading to business class can transform your journey from a tedious ordeal into the first exhilarating chapter of your Grecian adventure.
This isn’t just a flight; it’s a seamless transition between continents, allowing you to hit the ground running in Athens, ready to explore from the moment you step off the plane. The importance of comfort on these long-haul flights cannot be overstated, especially when you’re crossing multiple time zones and facing the challenge of jet lag.
In this article, we’ll be your personal guide through the crème de la crème of business class offerings to Athens. We’ve scoured the skies to bring you the absolute best options, focusing on five airlines that go above and beyond to ensure your journey is as memorable as your destination:
TOP 5 Business Class Airlines from USA to Athens
Emirates
Emirates, the flag carrier of the United Arab Emirates, has built a formidable reputation as one of the world’s leading luxury airlines. Founded in 1985, Emirates has quickly risen to become synonymous with opulence and excellence in air travel. The airline’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the skies has earned it numerous accolades, including being named the World’s Best Airline at the 2023 Skytrax World Airline Awards.
US departure cities and routes to Athens:
Emirates offers flights to Athens from several major US cities, including:
- New York (JFK)
- Newark (EWR)
- Boston (BOS)
- Chicago (ORD)
- Washington D.C. (IAD)
- Los Angeles (LAX)
- San Francisco (SFO)
- Seattle (SEA)
- Dallas (DFW)
- Houston (IAH)
- Miami (MIA)
All flights to Athens involve a layover in Dubai, Emirates’ hub, which can be an excellent opportunity to break up your journey or even add a short stopover to your trip.
Specific business class offerings for flights to Athens:
Seat features and cabin layout:
Emirates’ Business Class on flights to Athens typically features their renowned lie-flat seats. The cabin is arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring direct aisle access for all passengers. Each seat transforms into a fully flat bed up to 79 inches long, complete with a mattress topper for added comfort. The seats also come with a personal mini-bar, ample storage space, and a privacy panel that can be raised or lowered according to your preference.
In-flight entertainment and connectivity:
Emirates’ ICE (Information, Communication, Entertainment) system is widely regarded as one of the best in the skies. Business Class passengers enjoy a 23-inch HD touchscreen with over 5,000 channels of on-demand entertainment. Noise-canceling headphones are provided, and most flights offer Wi-Fi connectivity, with complimentary allowances for Business Class passengers.
Dining experience and menu options:
Emirates takes pride in its gourmet dining experience. Business Class passengers can enjoy multi-course meals prepared by world-class chefs, with menus that often feature both international cuisine and local specialties. Meals are served on Royal Doulton fine bone china with exclusive Robert Welch cutlery. A wide selection of premium wines, champagnes, and spirits is available, and you can dine on-demand at any time during the flight.
Lounge access at US airports and Athens International Airport:
Emirates operates its own lounges at JFK, LAX, and SFO, offering a luxurious pre-flight experience with gourmet dining, full-service bars, shower facilities, and comfortable seating areas. At other US departure points, Business Class passengers have access to partner lounges. Upon arrival at Athens International Airport, passengers can enjoy the Goldair Handling CIP Lounge or the Skyserv Aristotle Onassis Lounge, depending on availability.
Pros:
- Exceptional comfort with lie-flat beds and premium bedding
- World-class dining and extensive wine list
- Industry-leading in-flight entertainment system
- Luxurious lounges at many departure points
- Chauffeur service in select cities (including Athens)
Cons:
- All flights require a layover in Dubai, which may increase total travel time
- Higher price point compared to some competitors
- Limited US departure cities compared to some American carriers
Customer testimonials and reviews:
“Flying Emirates Business Class to Athens was like being in a five-star hotel in the sky. The service was impeccable, the food was restaurant-quality, and I arrived feeling refreshed and ready to explore. The layover in Dubai was actually a highlight – their business class lounge there is out of this world!” – Sarah T., New York
“I was blown away by the attention to detail on my Emirates flight. From the Bvlgari amenity kits to the dine-on-demand service, every aspect of the journey felt luxurious. The lie-flat bed meant I actually got a good night’s sleep, which made a huge difference when we landed in Athens.” – Michael R., Los Angeles
Why we recommend it for flights to Athens:
Emirates offers a truly premium experience that can make the long journey to Athens feel like a pleasure rather than a chore. The combination of spacious, comfortable seating, exceptional dining, and world-class service sets Emirates apart. While the layover in Dubai might add some time to your journey, it can also be an opportunity to break up your trip and experience Emirates’ flagship lounge. For travelers who value luxury and are willing to pay for it, Emirates provides an unparalleled flying experience to Athens.
Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways, the state-owned flag carrier of Qatar, has rapidly ascended to become one of the world’s most highly-regarded airlines since its relaunch in 1997. Known for its commitment to service excellence and innovation, Qatar Airways has consistently ranked among the top airlines globally. The airline has been crowned “Airline of the Year” by Skytrax an unprecedented seven times, most recently in 2023, cementing its status as a leader in the aviation industry.
US departure cities and routes to Athens:
Qatar Airways offers flights to Athens from several major US cities, including:
- New York (JFK)
- Boston (BOS)
- Chicago (ORD)
- Washington D.C. (IAD)
- Los Angeles (LAX)
- San Francisco (SFO)
- Dallas (DFW)
- Houston (IAH)
- Miami (MIA)
- Philadelphia (PHL)
- Seattle (SEA)
All flights to Athens include a layover at Hamad International Airport in Doha, Qatar’s ultramodern hub.
Specific business class offerings for flights to Athens:
Seat features and cabin layout:
Qatar Airways’ flagship Business Class product, Qsuite, is available on many routes to Athens. The Qsuite features a revolutionary 1-2-1 configuration with seats that can be converted into fully flat beds and private suites with closing doors. The middle seats can even be configured into a quad arrangement, perfect for families or colleagues traveling together. On routes where Qsuite isn’t available, you’ll still enjoy lie-flat seats with direct aisle access.
In-flight entertainment and connectivity:
Qatar Airways’ Oryx One in-flight entertainment system offers a vast selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games on a large personal touchscreen (typically 17-22 inches, depending on the aircraft). Noise-canceling headphones are provided, and Super Wi-Fi is available on many flights, with the first hour free for all passengers.
Dining experience and menu options:
Qatar Airways takes pride in its ‘dine-on-demand’ service, allowing Business Class passengers to order from an extensive à la carte menu at any time during the flight. The airline collaborates with world-renowned chefs to create diverse menus featuring both international cuisine and Middle Eastern specialties. Meals are presented on fine china and accompanied by a selection of premium wines and champagnes.
Lounge access at US airports and Athens International Airport:
While Qatar Airways doesn’t operate its own lounges in the US, Business Class passengers have access to partner lounges at all departure points. These typically include amenities such as comfortable seating areas, complimentary food and beverages, and business facilities. At Hamad International Airport in Doha, passengers can enjoy the spectacular Al Mourjan Business Lounge, often considered one of the best airline lounges in the world. Upon arrival at Athens International Airport, access is provided to the Skyserv Aristotle Onassis Lounge.
Pros:
- Industry-leading Qsuite on many routes
- Flexible dine-on-demand service
- Exceptional service with a high crew-to-passenger ratio
- Access to the world-class Al Mourjan lounge in Doha
- Comfortable and well-appointed seats even on non-Qsuite flights
Cons:
- All flights require a layover in Doha
- Qsuite may not be available on all routes or aircraft
- Higher price point compared to some competitors
Customer testimonials and reviews:
“The Qsuite is a game-changer. I had complete privacy when I wanted it, but could also easily chat with my travel companion. The ability to have a double bed in the sky is incredible. The food was restaurant-quality, and the service was attentive without being intrusive.” – David L., Chicago
“Even though my flight didn’t have Qsuites, the experience was still fantastic. The lie-flat bed was very comfortable, and the dine-on-demand concept meant I could eat on my own schedule. The lounge in Doha was like a destination in itself – I almost didn’t want to leave for my connecting flight to Athens!” – Emily S., San Francisco
Why we recommend it for flights to Athens:
Qatar Airways offers a truly premium experience that combines cutting-edge technology with warm, personalized service. The Qsuite, where available, provides a level of privacy and comfort that’s hard to match. Even on routes without Qsuites, the high standard of service, excellent dining options, and comfortable lie-flat seats make for a very pleasurable journey. The layover in Doha, while adding to the total travel time, provides access to one of the world’s best business class lounges. For travelers seeking a luxurious and refined flying experience to Athens, Qatar Airways is an excellent choice.
Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines, the flag carrier of Singapore, has long been synonymous with luxury and excellence in air travel. Founded in 1947, the airline has consistently set industry standards for service, comfort, and innovation. Known for its iconic Singapore Girl cabin crew and commitment to culinary excellence, Singapore Airlines has won numerous awards, including World’s Best Airline by Skytrax multiple times. The airline’s attention to detail and focus on customer experience have earned it a loyal following among discerning travelers worldwide.
US departure cities and routes to Athens:
Singapore Airlines offers flights to Athens from the following US cities:
- New York (JFK)
- Los Angeles (LAX)
- San Francisco (SFO)
All flights to Athens involve a layover in Singapore Changi Airport, consistently rated as one of the world’s best airports.
Specific business class offerings for flights to Athens:
Seat features and cabin layout:
Singapore Airlines’ Business Class features a 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring direct aisle access for all passengers. The seats, designed in collaboration with JPA Design, transform into fully-flat beds up to 78 inches long. The innovative design allows for multiple sitting and lounging positions. Some aircraft feature the airline’s latest Business Class product, which offers even more space and privacy.
In-flight entertainment and connectivity:
The KrisWorld entertainment system offers an extensive selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games on a large 18-inch HD touchscreen monitor. Noise-canceling headphones are provided, and Wi-Fi is available on most flights, with complimentary data allowances for Business Class passengers.
Dining experience and menu options:
Singapore Airlines is renowned for its “Book the Cook” service, allowing Business Class passengers to pre-order their main course from an extensive menu of gourmet dishes up to 24 hours before the flight. The airline collaborates with world-renowned chefs to create its menus, which feature both international cuisine and Singaporean specialties. Meals are served on fine bone china, and a curated selection of wines and champagnes complements the dining experience.
Lounge access at US airports and Athens International Airport:
Singapore Airlines operates its own SilverKris Lounges at JFK and SFO, offering a tranquil pre-flight experience with gourmet dining options, full-service bars, and comfortable seating areas. At LAX, Business Class passengers have access to partner lounges. Upon arrival at Athens International Airport, access is provided to the Goldair Handling CIP Lounge.
Pros:
- Exceptional service from the renowned Singapore Girl cabin crew
- “Book the Cook” pre-order meal service
- Spacious and comfortable lie-flat seats
- Access to the world-class facilities at Singapore Changi Airport during layover
- Consistently high standards across all aspects of the flight experience
Cons:
- Limited US departure cities
- All flights require a long layover in Singapore, significantly increasing total travel time
- Higher price point compared to some competitors
Customer testimonials and reviews:
“The service on Singapore Airlines is simply unmatched. From the moment I stepped on board, I felt like royalty. The ‘Book the Cook’ option meant I got exactly the meal I wanted, and it was genuinely restaurant-quality. The long layover in Singapore was actually a highlight – Changi Airport is an attraction in itself!” – Robert M., New York
“I was initially hesitant about the long flight time, but the comfort of the Business Class seat and the attentiveness of the crew made it fly by. I arrived in Athens feeling refreshed and ready to start my vacation. The Singapore Airlines experience is worth every penny.” – Lisa T., San Francisco
Why we recommend it for flights to Athens:
While the journey with Singapore Airlines may be longer due to the layover in Singapore, the exceptional quality of service and comfort make it a top choice for those who view the journey as part of the destination. The combination of spacious seating, gourmet dining, and world-class service creates an unparalleled flying experience. For travelers who prioritize luxury and don’t mind a longer travel time, Singapore Airlines offers one of the finest ways to reach Athens.
Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines, the national flag carrier of Turkey, has rapidly grown to become one of the world’s largest airlines by destinations served. Founded in 1933, the airline has gained a reputation for its extensive network, competitive prices, and high-quality service, particularly in Business Class. Turkish Airlines has won multiple awards, including “Europe’s Best Airline” by Skytrax for six consecutive years. The airline is known for its unique east-meets-west approach, blending Turkish hospitality with modern aviation standards.
US departure cities and routes to Athens:
Turkish Airlines offers flights to Athens from numerous US cities, including:
- New York (JFK)
- Boston (BOS)
- Washington D.C. (IAD)
- Chicago (ORD)
- Houston (IAH)
- Miami (MIA)
- Los Angeles (LAX)
- San Francisco (SFO)
- Atlanta (ATL)
- Seattle (SEA)
All flights to Athens include a layover in Istanbul, offering a unique opportunity to experience two cultures on one trip.
Specific business class offerings for flights to Athens:
Seat features and cabin layout:
Turkish Airlines’ Business Class features a variety of seating configurations depending on the aircraft type. On many long-haul routes, you’ll find a 1-2-1 or 2-2-2 layout with seats that convert into fully-flat beds. The newest Business Class product, available on some routes, offers enhanced privacy and direct aisle access for all passengers.
In-flight entertainment and connectivity:
The airline’s entertainment system offers a wide selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games on personal screens (sizes vary by aircraft type). Noise-canceling headphones are provided, and Wi-Fi is available on many flights, with complimentary options for Business Class passengers.
Dining experience and menu options:
Turkish Airlines is particularly renowned for its onboard catering, provided by Turkish Do&Co. Business Class passengers enjoy a fine dining experience with meals prepared by “Flying Chefs” on board. The menu features both international cuisine and Turkish specialties. The airline’s signature candlelit dinner service adds a touch of romance to night flights. A wide selection of wines, including Turkish varieties, complements the meals.
Lounge access at US airports and Athens International Airport:
While Turkish Airlines doesn’t operate its own lounges in the US, Business Class passengers have access to partner lounges at all departure points. At Istanbul Airport, passengers can enjoy the spectacular Turkish Airlines Business Lounge, one of the largest airline lounges in the world, featuring live cooking stations, a tea garden, and even a golf simulator. Upon arrival at Athens International Airport, access is provided to the Goldair Handling CIP Lounge.
Pros:
- Excellent onboard dining experience with “Flying Chefs”
- Competitive pricing compared to some other international carriers
- Access to the impressive Turkish Airlines lounge in Istanbul
- Opportunity to experience Turkish culture during the layover
- Extensive US departure options
Cons:
- Seat configurations vary by aircraft, with some older planes offering less privacy
- All flights require a layover in Istanbul
- In-flight entertainment system may not be as extensive as some competitors
Customer testimonials and reviews:
“The food on Turkish Airlines is out of this world. Having a chef on board really makes a difference. The lounge in Istanbul was like a small city – I almost didn’t want to leave for my connecting flight to Athens!” – James K., Chicago
“I was pleasantly surprised by the value for money with Turkish Airlines Business Class. The service was attentive, the seat comfortable, and the overall experience was comparable to airlines charging much more.” – Sophia R., New York
Why we recommend it for flights to Athens:
Turkish Airlines offers a unique blend of value, comfort, and cultural experience for travelers heading to Athens. The airline’s strength lies in its exceptional catering, extensive route network, and the opportunity to break your journey in fascinating Istanbul. While the Business Class hard product may not be as consistent as some competitors, the warm hospitality, excellent food, and competitive pricing make Turkish Airlines a compelling choice for the journey to Athens.
Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways, the second-largest airline of the United Arab Emirates, has made a name for itself as a trendsetter in luxury air travel since its launch in 2003. Known for its innovative approach to passenger comfort and service, Etihad has introduced several industry-first concepts, particularly in its premium cabins. The airline has won numerous awards for its service quality and in-flight products, cementing its position as one of the world’s leading airlines.
US departure cities and routes to Athens
Etihad Airways offers flights to Athens from the following US cities:
- New York (JFK)
- Washington D.C. (IAD)
- Chicago (ORD)
All flights to Athens include a layover in Abu Dhabi, Etihad’s ultra-modern hub.
Specific business class offerings for flights to Athens:
Seat features and cabin layout:
Etihad’s Business Class, known as Business Studio on many aircraft, features a 1-2-1 configuration ensuring direct aisle access for all passengers. The seats convert into fully-flat beds up to 80 inches long. The innovative forward and rear-facing layout maximizes space and privacy. Each suite includes ample storage, a large side table, and a personal wardrobe.
In-flight entertainment and connectivity:
Etihad’s E-BOX entertainment system offers a vast selection of movies, TV shows, live TV channels, music, and games on a large 18-inch touch screen. Noise-canceling headphones are provided, and Wi-Fi is available on most flights, with complimentary options for Business Class passengers.
Dining experience and menu options:
Etihad offers a unique “Dine Anytime” concept in Business Class, allowing passengers to order from an à la carte menu at any time during the flight. The airline collaborates with world-class chefs to create its menus, which feature both international cuisine and Middle Eastern specialties. Meals are served on designer tableware, and a “Food and Beverage Manager” is on hand to provide expert advice on menu and wine pairings.
Lounge access at US airports and Athens International Airport:
While Etihad doesn’t operate its own lounges in the US, Business Class passengers have access to partner lounges at all departure points. At Abu Dhabi International Airport, passengers can enjoy Etihad’s luxurious Business Class Lounge, featuring a la carte dining, a bar, shower facilities, and a spa. Upon arrival at Athens International Airport, access is provided to the Goldair Handling CIP Lounge.
Pros:
- Innovative and spacious Business Studio seating
- Flexible “Dine Anytime” concept
- Dedicated Food and Beverage Manager on board
- Access to the luxurious Etihad lounge in Abu Dhabi
- High level of personalized service
Cons:
- Limited US departure cities
- All flights require a layover in Abu Dhabi
- Higher price point compared to some competitors
Customer testimonials and reviews:
“The Business Studio on Etihad is a cut above the rest. The amount of personal space is incredible, and the ability to dine whenever I wanted made the flight feel much more like a high-end restaurant experience than typical airplane food.” – Thomas L., New York
“I was impressed by the attention to detail on my Etihad flight. From the moment I boarded, the crew anticipated my needs before I even asked. The lounge in Abu Dhabi was a peaceful oasis during my layover. I arrived in Athens feeling pampered and refreshed.” – Amanda G., Washington D.C.
Why we recommend it for flights to Athens:
Etihad Airways offers a truly premium experience that can make the long journey to Athens feel like a luxurious adventure. The combination of spacious and innovative seating, exceptional dining with flexibility, and world-class service sets Etihad apart. While the layover in Abu Dhabi might add some time to your journey, it provides an opportunity to experience Etihad’s flagship lounge and perhaps even explore a bit of the UAE. For travelers who value luxury and are willing to pay for a top-tier experience, Etihad provides an excellent option for reaching Athens in style and comfort.
Comparison Table of the Described Business Classes
To help you make an informed decision, here’s a side-by-side comparison of key features for each airline’s business class offering on flights to Athens:
Feature | Emirates | Qatar Airways | Singapore Airlines | Turkish Airlines | Etihad Airways |
Seat Configuration | 1-2-1 | 1-2-1 (Qsuite) | 1-2-1 | 1-2-1 or 2-2-2 | 1-2-1 |
Fully Flat Bed | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Direct Aisle Access | Yes | Yes | Yes | Varies | Yes |
Privacy | High | Very High | High | Moderate to High | High |
Dining On-Demand | Yes | Yes | No (Book the Cook) | No | Yes |
Wi-Fi Available | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Lounge Access | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Layover Location | Dubai | Doha | Singapore | Istanbul | Abu Dhabi |
Ratings for different aspects (1-5 scale, 5 being the best):
Aspect | Emirates | Qatar Airways | Singapore Airlines | Turkish Airlines | Etihad Airways |
Seat Comfort | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 5 |
Privacy | 4 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 4 |
Service | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 5 |
Food Quality | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Entertainment | 5 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 4 |
Lounge Quality | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Overall Value | 4 | 5 | 4 | 5 | 4 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much does a business class ticket to Athens typically cost?
Prices can vary widely depending on the airline, departure city, and time of booking. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000 for a round-trip business class ticket from the US to Athens.
Is it worth flying business class to Athens?
For many travelers, the comfort, service, and amenities provided in business class make the long journey much more enjoyable and help reduce jet lag. Whether it’s “worth it” depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the importance you place on comfort during travel.
How early should I arrive at the airport for a business class flight?
While business class often comes with expedited check-in and security processes, it’s still recommended to arrive at least 2-3 hours before an international flight.
Can I bring more luggage when flying business class?
Yes, business class tickets typically come with a more generous baggage allowance. However, exact allowances vary by airline, so always check with your specific carrier.
Are meals and drinks included in business class?
Yes, all the airlines mentioned provide complimentary meals and a wide selection of beverages, including alcohol, in business class.
Can I access the business class lounge if I’m flying economy but have elite status?
This depends on the airline and your level of status. Some airlines do offer lounge access to their high-tier frequent flyers, even when flying economy.
Is it possible to upgrade to business class at the airport?
While sometimes possible, it’s generally more expensive to upgrade at the airport. It’s usually better to book business class in advance or use miles/points for an upgrade.
Do all business class seats lie flat?
On long-haul flights to Athens, most business class seats will be fully lie-flat. However, it’s always best to check the specific aircraft for your flight as configurations can vary.
How can I find the best deals on business class flights to Athens?
Keep an eye out for sales, consider flying during off-peak seasons, be flexible with your travel dates, and sign up for airline newsletters to be notified of special offers. Using credit card points or airline miles can also provide great value.
Is it better to fly direct or have a layover when traveling business class to Athens?
There are no direct flights from the US to Athens, so you will have a layover regardless. The choice of layover location depends on your preferences for total travel time, quality of business class product, and interest in the stopover city.
Conclusion
Embarking on a journey to Athens in business class elevates your travel experience from the moment you step into the airport. Each of the airlines we’ve explored – Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and Etihad Airways – offers a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and service that can make your long-haul flight to Greece’s historic capital a pleasure rather than a chore.
Whether you prioritize cutting-edge seat design, gourmet dining, exceptional service, or overall value, there’s a business class option that will suit your preferences. Remember to consider factors such as departure cities, layover experiences, and your personal travel style when making your choice.
Ultimately, flying business class to Athens is an investment in comfort and well-being that can help you arrive refreshed and ready to explore the wonders of this ancient city. By choosing the right airline for your needs, you’re not just booking a flight – you’re setting the stage for an unforgettable Grecian adventure.