Conversion of ethanol to hydrocarbons was investigated over H-ZSM-5 zeolite and its modification by addition of phosphorus, iron and nickel. Reaction is realized in a tubular flow reactor at atmospheric pressure. Catalyst characterization was performed by UV-vis, TG-DTA, XRD,NH3-TPD, and IR spectroscopy of the surface OH groups and of adsorbed pyridine. High P content enhances the selectivity to lower olefins, in particular ethylene, as also occurs in the case of Fe addition. Over Ni-modified zeolites, C-4 and aromatic production is promoted. The role of acidity on the conversion path is briefly discussed. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.