Unlock cheap flights to Greece with points — from just 45,000 miles round-trip

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Greece is easily accessible with nonstop and 1-stop flights
• You can fly to Athens from 45,000 miles round-trip
• Best airline alliances: Oneworld, Star Alliance, SkyTeam
• Top value programs: American Airlines, Iberia, ANA
• Booking early = better availability + lower mileage costs

⏱️ Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

🇬🇷 Why Visit Greece?

4

Greece is a destination that combines ancient civilisation with stunning natural beauty. From the legendary Acropolis of Athens to the iconic islands of Santorini and Mykonos, it offers unforgettable experiences.

Most international travellers arrive via Athens International Airport (ATH), making Athens the perfect gateway.

✈️ Best Airline Programs to Book Flights

🟦 Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan

4

Best for: Flexibility + stopovers

• Economy: 55,000–70,000 miles
• Business: 110,000–140,000 miles
• Taxes: ~$100

✅ You can add a free stopover on one-way tickets
👉 Best partner: American Airlines

🟥 American Airlines AAdvantage

5

Best for: Cheap economy deals

• Economy (off-peak): from 45,000 miles
• Business: ~115,000 miles

✅ Best routes via Iberia (Madrid connection)
⚠️ Avoid British Airways due to high fees

🟨 ANA Mileage Club (Star Alliance)

5

Best for: Business class value

• Economy: 55,000 miles
• Business: 100,000 miles

Works with:

• United Airlines
• TAP Air Portugal

⚠️ Round-trip booking required

🟩 Avianca LifeMiles

6

Best for: No fuel surcharges

• Economy: ~78,000 miles
• Business: ~138,000 miles

✅ Ideal for premium cabins on Lufthansa

🟪 Iberia Avios

6

Best for: Best overall value

• Economy: 42,500–51,000 miles
• Business: 85,000–102,000 miles

✅ Strong routes via Madrid
💡 One of the cheapest business class options

🟫 Etihad Guest

5

Best for: Hidden deals

• Economy: from 40,000 miles
• Business: from 100,000 miles

Partners include:

• American Airlines
• Brussels Airlines

⚠️ Booking requires phone call

🟧 United MileagePlus

5

Best for: Simplicity

• Economy: ~60,000 miles
• Business: 160,000+ miles

✅ Easy online booking
⚠️ Often higher mileage cost

🧠 Smart Booking Tips

• 📅 Book 6–10 months in advance
• 🔍 Search multiple alliances
• 💺 Premium seats often released last-minute
• ✈️ Compare routes via Madrid, Frankfurt, Lisbon

Use search tools from:

• United Airlines
• British Airways

💳 How to Earn Points Faster

Focus on flexible programs:

• American Express Membership Rewards
• Chase Ultimate Rewards
• Capital One Miles
• Citi ThankYou Points

These allow transfers to multiple airlines.

🌍 Best overall strategies:

• Use American Airlines for economy
• Use Iberia or ANA for business class
• Stay flexible with dates and routes

With the right planning, Greece becomes not just a dream—but a smart, affordable reality.