Because Athens (ATH)–Los Angeles (LAX) is such a long route, direct flights aren’t offered, so all trips require at least one stop. One-stop flights are most common, typically taking 15–20 hours depending on layover length. Two-stop itineraries can exceed 20 hours, sometimes offering lower fares or more schedule flexibility. Airline and routing choices heavily influence total travel time.
🗺️ Factors Affecting Travel Time
Several key elements can influence the total duration of your flight from Athens to Los Angeles:
- Number of Stops: As mentioned, direct flights are rare. A one-stop flight will almost always be faster than a two-stop flight.
- Layover Duration: This is often the most significant variable. Layovers can range from a quick 1-2 hours to an extended 10+ hours. Shorter layovers contribute to a faster overall journey, but require efficient transfers.
- Connecting Airport: The efficiency of the connecting airport can impact transfer times. Major European hubs like London Heathrow (LHR), Frankfurt (FRA), Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS), and Istanbul (IST) are common for this route.
- Airline and Routing: Different airlines have different hub airports and preferred routes. Some may offer more direct routing or more efficient connections than others.
- Aircraft Type: While less impactful than layovers, the specific aircraft type and its cruising speed can slightly influence the actual flight time between segments.
- Air Traffic and Weather: Unforeseen delays due to air traffic control, adverse weather conditions, or operational issues can occasionally extend travel times.
✅ Ready to Book Your Flight?
Now that you have a clear understanding of the average flight duration and factors influencing your journey from Athens to Los Angeles, it's time to find the best flight for your travel plans.
Visit Trip.com to compare flight options, airlines, layover times, and prices to secure your ideal itinerary. With a wide selection of flights, you can easily find the most convenient and efficient route to take you from the ancient wonders of Greece to the sunny shores of California.
Data was updated on December 7, 2025; please refer to real-time search for specific details.


