In Jun–Sep, arrive 2.5–3 hours before intra-Schengen flights; security and check-in queues routinely exceed 60–90 minutes.

Worst crush is mid-morning and late afternoon when multiple low-cost and charter banks overlap — off-season 90 minutes is usually enough.

Everything is in one building — landside is tiny; airside gets packed fast, so clear security then claim a seat immediately.

Departures upstairs/flow is linear; do not count on finding quiet space near gates once three flights board at once.

Airside food is basic café/snack fare with long lines at peak — grab a real meal in town or landside if you have time.

If you need a proper sit-down or dietary-specific food, do it in Chora; do not plan a leisurely airside lunch in August.

Check flight status and taxi ETA the same morning — Meltemi winds and apron congestion cause cascading delays after ~15:00.

Build buffer before ferries or club reservations; a 40-minute airborne hop can still mean a 2-hour gate slip.