Become a Pilot for a Day in a Professional Airbus 320 Simulator

Become a Pilot for a Day in a Professional Airbus 320 Simulator: A Hands-On Flight Experience in Athens

If you’re visiting Athens and looking to shake things up beyond the usual sightseeing and historical tours, this flight simulator experience offers a chance to step into the cockpit of a real Airbus A320—without ever leaving the ground. Designed as an interactive adventure for curious minds and adrenaline seekers, this activity promises a mix of fun, education, and a dash of challenge.

What makes this experience stand out are two things we really appreciate: first, the authenticity of the simulators, which are full-sized and operated with professional guidance, and second, the variety of options, from commercial flight to fighter jets and motorsports. However, it’s worth mentioning that, at just around an hour, the experience is quite short for the price, so it’s best suited for those looking for a quick, impactful thrill rather than a full-day adventure.

This experience is especially suited for tech-savvy travelers, aviation buffs, or anyone eager to get a taste of piloting a plane—whether you’re 12 or 112. No prior flying experience is needed, and it’s a fantastic indoor activity that can fit into a busy Athens itinerary, especially on a rainy day or when you want a break from the sun.

• Authentic simulation: Full-sized cockpit experience with professional assistance
• Variety of choices: From Airbus commercial jets to F-16 fighter jets and motorsports simulators
• Suitable for most travelers: No prior experience needed, ages 12 and up
• Fun indoor activity: Great escape from bad weather or a busy sightseeing schedule
• Short but impactful: Around 1 hour of high-energy fun
• Limited group size: Max 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention

What to Expect from This Athens Flight Simulator Experience

This isn’t just a toy; it’s a serious simulation center offering realistic, full-sized cockpits that mimic the actual Airbus 320, F-16 fighter jet, and even motorsport simulators like Formula 1 and MotoGP. The entire setup is designed to give you a tangible sense of what it’s like to be a pilot, guided by certified pilots who help you navigate the controls and understand the aircraft systems.

The Airbus 320 simulator is the star here—it’s a full-sized cockpit, which means you’ll sit in a seat that feels as close to the real thing as possible. With professional assistance, you’ll get a brief safety and instruction overview before taking the pilot’s seat. Whether you’re trying to land the plane, cruise at altitude, or follow a route, you’ll receive guidance, making it accessible even if you’re new to flying.

For those dabbling in more adrenaline-pumping rides, the F-16 fighter jet simulator offers an entirely different perspective. Assisted by certified pilots, you can test your reaction times and see if you can handle the demands of flying this agile jet. The motorsports simulators like Formula 1 and MotoGP add an extra layer of fun, with full motion capabilities that make you feel like you’re racing at breakneck speeds on a track or circuit.

The Experience Itself

The entire activity lasts about an hour, which is plenty of time to get a taste of what real pilots experience. The session begins with a brief introduction, often led by knowledgeable staff, who ensure everyone understands how to operate the controls safely. For many, especially younger participants or those new to aviation, this is the perfect amount of time to get a sense of mastery and excitement without feeling overwhelmed.

We loved the feedback from previous visitors—one reviewer shared that their 11-year-old son piloted the plane and loved every second of it. Another mentioned how watching their brother enjoy the fighter jet simulator was “amazing,” emphasizing that the staff’s helpfulness and professionalism really enhanced the experience.

You can expect a personalized touch in the session—especially in a small group of up to 8 travelers—meaning you’ll often get individual guidance and attention, making it a genuinely tailored experience.

The Meeting Point and Practical Details

The activity kicks off at Leof. Vouliagmenis 387, Ilioupoli. It’s easy to reach via public transportation, and the center operates daily from noon to 9 pm, giving plenty of flexibility for scheduling. The tour is configured as a mobile ticket, so no worries about complicated arrangements—just show up and get ready to fly.

Cost is $118.53 per person, which might seem steep for a one-hour activity, but when you consider the realism of the simulators and the guidance involved, it’s a fair price for an hour of interactive aviation fun. Plus, the reviews suggest that the experience is quite immersive and worth the investment, especially for aviation enthusiasts or curious first-timers.

Booking is flexible—you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, making this a low-risk addition to your Athens plans.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This activity is perfect for teenagers and adults who are interested in flying or aviation. It’s also a good pick if you’re traveling with friends or family members who want a fun, indoor activity that’s different from the usual sightseeing.

Since no previous flying experience is required, it’s accessible to most people, though those with a keen interest in aircraft or motorsports will find it particularly engaging. Keep in mind that it’s a quick, high-energy session—so if you’re looking for an in-depth pilot training or a long flight experience, this isn’t quite that. However, for a memorable, hands-on introduction to flying, it hits the mark.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a fun, interactive activity that offers a taste of what pilots experience, this flight simulator ticks a lot of boxes. The simulators are professional-grade, and the staff’s guidance helps demystify flying, making it accessible even to those who’ve never sat in a cockpit before.

The fact that it’s a small-group experience enhances the feeling of being personally mentored into the role of a pilot. Plus, the variety of simulators—ranging from commercial jets to fighter planes and racing cars—means there’s something for all, from thrill-seekers to tech geeks.

That said, it’s a short experience for the price, so if you’re looking for a full afternoon activity, you might find it a bit light. But for a quick, memorable burst of excitement in Athens, this activity offers genuine value, especially if you appreciate realism and expert guidance.

This is a solid choice for aviation fans or anyone eager to try something totally different during their Athens trip. It’s an indoor activity that can spice up your day, regardless of weather, and leaves you with a story to tell long after you land.

FAQs

Do I need any prior flying experience to participate?
No, you don’t need any prior experience. The activity is designed to be accessible for everyone aged 12 and up, with guidance from certified pilots.

How long does the experience last?
The actual session runs for about an hour, which includes instruction and flying time. It’s a quick but immersive experience.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 12 and older can participate, especially if they’re interested in aviation or motorsports. The reviews mention younger teens having a great time.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before your scheduled time. Cancellations within that window are not refundable.

Where does the activity take place?
It starts at Leof. Vouliagmenis 387, Ilioupoli, Athens. The location is accessible via public transportation.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers a full-sized cockpit experience with professional assistance, the simulator session, and guidance. It’s a single, hour-long activity.

If you’re craving a unique, adrenaline-packed experience that offers a behind-the-scenes view of flying, this pilot-for-a-day simulation in Athens might just be the highlight of your trip. It’s a fantastic choice for those curious about aviation, racing, or just looking to try something genuinely different and fun.