Greece by Train
Your Eurail journey through Greece will likely be unforgettable. Greece is a mystical blend of ancient history and modern-day hedonism. Take in the sights that take you back to a world before time, and then leap back into the present for sand, sea, and sun relaxation. Whether on the mainland or one of the countless islands, Greece is a true paradise.
Greece is currently not connected by rail from other countries because of operational issues. It is, however, possible to take a ferry from Italy to Greece. Also check out the Greek Island pass for more possibilities.
Train types in Greece
The Greek railway company Hellenic Train operates services between some of the country's main cities including Athens and Thessaloniki. Find train times on the Hellenic Train website.
- Route map
- Domestic trains
- International trains
Domestic trains in Greece
Eurail Pass holders can travel on all Hellenic trains. Eurailers only have to pay the InterCity (IC) train supplements and any additional fees. Check out our timetable or the Hellenic train website for more information.
- InterCity
- Athens – Larissa – Thessaloniki
- Larissa – Thessaloniki
- Larissa – Volos
- Athens – Kalambaka
- Reservations required (but free of charge).
- Suburban railway
- Connects major urban centres to the suburbs.
- Available in Athens, Thessaloniki and Patras.
- Reservations not required.
Bicycles are allowed as check-in luggage on certain trains. Please check at the train stations if any fees apply.
International trains
Currently, there is no international train traffic from Thessaloniki to North Macedonia, Bulgaria or Turkey. At the moment, it is not known yet when services will start running again.
Popular connections
- Domestic routes
- Scenic routes
- Ferry routes
Route | InterCity travel times |
---|---|
Athens to Thessaloniki | 4h 40m |
Athens to Larissa | 3h |
Larissa to Thessaloniki | 1h 35m |
Athens to Patras (Partially by bus) | 2h 55m |
Athens to Kalambaka | 4h 21m |
Scenic train routes in Greece
The Pelion train
A steam train travels from Ano Lehonia to Milies, up the spectacular Mount Pelion.
The journey lasts 1.5 hours, including a 15-minute break.
The Rack Railway
A rack railroad from Diakopto to Kalavryta takes you through the gorgeous Vouraikos Gorge.
The journey lasts approximately 1 hour.
International ferry routes from Greece to Italy
Eurail Pass holders with a Pass valid in both Greece and Italy get FREE and discounted ferry travel to Italy on the following routes:
Patras/Igoumenitsa to Ancona/Bari/Venice
Corfu - Bari (summer only)
Reservations
Get your Pass for Greece
Greece Pass
Spend your whole vacation traveling throughout Greece by rail.
Standard prices from $ 100
Global Pass
Be free to explore Greece and up to 30 other countries by train.
Standard prices from $ 233
Greek Islands Pass
Go island hopping in Greece and travel by ferry between Greece and Italy.
Standard prices from $ 85
Tips and tricks for Greece
Quick facts
Capital: Athens
Population: 10.8 million
Language: Greek
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Dialing code: +30
Spelling of city names
On Greek train timetables and at train stations in Greece, you'll usually find the local spelling of Greek cities and stations. Here is the local spelling of some popular Greek cities:
Athens = Athina
Corfu = Kérkyra
Corinth = Kórinthos
Heraklion = Iráklio
Patras = Pátra
Piraeus= Pireás
Ferry crossings between Greece and Italy
If your Eurail pass is valid in both Greece and Italy, you can travel for FREE with a number of ferry providers. Those with Eurail passes for only one of these countries can receive a discount of up to 30% on full fares for selected routes.
Domestic boat trips
You can get special fares on domestic boat travel with the following ferry companies:
Blue Star Ferries
Superfast Ferries
Minoan Lines
Eurail aid offices in Greece
For questions about Eurail, you can go to the Hellenic Railways travel agency in Athens, the railway station of Patras or the Central railway station of Thessaloniki.
Detailed information about Eurail aid offices in Greece and the rest of Europe.
Airport links
From Athens E.Venizelos airport there is a train every hour to Athens Central railway station and to Kiato new railway station (change at Ano Liossia station).
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Found yourself at the end of the line, but not at your destination? When public transportation ends, it's time to take matters into your own hands: rent a car for the last miles!
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