Infrastructure

Sporting infrastructure is 80% ready

Previous sporting events have not only helped us gain a significant amount of experience in sports organization, but have also left the cities of Volos and Larissa with a legacy of modern infrastructure that is already in place for the Mediterranean Games. In fact, 80% of sports installations are ready and only minor modifications are required in order to cover the total needs (this means that no State economic aid will be required and no new installations that do not justify their existence after the Games will be constructed).

Among those venues that are already in place is the main Stadium of Volos (Panthessaliko), which will host all events of Athletics, Opening and Closing Ceremonies. All events will be hosted in complexes of venues that are close to the two city centres, thus making transport easy and relaxing and enhancing the festive mood of the Games. For more information about venues location please consult the master plan.

Airport infrastructure

In Athens

Athens, the capital of Greece, is located at a distance of 325km from the city of Volos and 350 km from the city of Larissa. The Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos” has been the main point of entry to Greece since its opening date of March 28, 2001. A €2.2 billion investment, Athens International Airport serves daily millions of passengers and handles vast amounts of merchandise and luggage, while it accommodates over fifty airlines that provide secure links to countless destinations in all continents. In 2008 alone Athens International Airport served a total number of 16.5 million passengers. Today, it ranks among the top airports in the world and has earned international distinctions of the highest merit.

In Volos

A smaller airport already exists in the city of Volos, currently serving domestic and international private and charter flights. The Nea Aghialos airport started its operation in 1991. It is located 26 km away from the city of Volos and is easily accessible through the highway. All necessary works are underway, so that the airport will be able cover the needs of  the local population as well as transportation needs of tourists and passengers from abroad. This project will enhance the accessibility of Volos for a big number of athletes, spectators and tourists throughout the duration of the Games and will be part of the legacy that the Games will leave to the citizens of Volos and the greater area.