- Must visit
Museum of Byzantine Culture
Major state museum with outstanding Byzantine art, mosaics, icons, and everyday objects from early Christian to late Byzantine periods.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Athens to Thessaloniki
Showing times and prices for Jun 06
Cheapest price
$25
Average price
$25
Fastest journey
5 h 12 m
Average duration
5 h 12 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
303 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Athens to Thessaloniki is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Athens to Thessaloniki will cost around $25 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $25.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Athens for Thessaloniki on Sat, Jun 06, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 06 the direct trains cover the 303 km distance in an average of 5 h 12 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 12 m .
On Sat, Jun 06 the slowest trains will take 5 h 12 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
6:58 AM5h12Athens12:10 PMThessaloniki$251One-way0 transfers- 5:58 PM5h12Athens11:10 PMThessaloniki$251One-way0 transfers
- 6:58 AM5h12Athens12:10 PMThessaloniki$251One-way0 transfers
- 5:58 PM5h12Athens11:10 PMThessaloniki$251One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, ferry, and flight for Athens to Thessaloniki
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Athens to Thessaloniki among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 32m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $25, and a flight costs an average of $69.
Distance: 188 miles (303 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Ferry | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$25 Average price Cheapest | $129 Average price | $125 Average price | $49 Average price | $158 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 42m Average total duration 5h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 32m Average total duration Fastest 1h 32m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 18h 17m Average total duration 17h 17m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 6h 45m Average total duration 6h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 23m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Athens to Thessaloniki is a train with an average price of $25 (€20).
This is compared to other travel options from Athens to Thessaloniki:
A train is $25 (€20) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Athens to Thessaloniki costing on average $49 (€40).
A train is $100 (€81) less than a ferry for this route with tickets for a ferry from Athens to Thessaloniki costing on average $125 (€101).
A train is $104 (€84) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Athens to Thessaloniki costing on average $129 (€104).
The fastest way to travel from Athens to Thessaloniki is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 32m.
Other travel options to Thessaloniki take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 12m.
Bus takes on average 6h 15m.
Ferry takes on average 17h 17m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 4 ways to travel between Athens and Thessaloniki including taking a train, bus, ferry, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Athens to Thessaloniki among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 11m faster (5h 12m by train vs 5h 23m by car) and roughly $134 (€108) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($25 (€20) vs $158 (€128)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Hellenic Train S.A..
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Athens to Thessaloniki train times
The table below shows live departures for Athens to Thessaloniki trains for today, Friday, June 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:58 AM Athens | 5h12 | 12:10 PM Thessaloniki | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:58 PM Athens | 5h12 | 11:10 PM Thessaloniki | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Athens to Thessaloniki by train, bus, ferry, or flight
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Athens to Thessaloniki
GreeceGreece
Trains from Athens to Thessaloniki run on average 1 times per day, taking around 5h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 (€20) if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:58, the last at 17:58. The fastest train covers the 188 miles (303 km) distance in 5h 12m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 188 miles (303 km) |
Average train duration 5h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price $25 (€20) |
Trains per day 1 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 5h 12m |
First train 6:58 AM |
Last train 5:58 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Train companies: Hellenic Train S.A. from Athens to Thessaloniki trainsHellenic Train S.A. trains will get you between Athens and Thessaloniki from $25 (€20). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Hellenic Train S.A.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 12m
Cheapest Price
$25 (€20)
Hellenic Train S.A. frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Thessaloniki
Things to do in Thessaloniki
Discover the best of Thessaloniki — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Thessaloniki trip today.
- Must visit
Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
Essential museum covering ancient Macedonia, including gold grave goods, sculpture, and finds from prehistoric to Roman times.
- Recommended
MOMus-Museum of Contemporary Art
Leading contemporary art museum in the Thessaloniki International Fair grounds, known for Greek and international modern works.
- Must visit
Aristotelous Square
Thessaloniki’s grand central square facing the sea, lined with arcaded buildings and constantly active day and night.
- Must visit
Thessaloniki Waterfront
Iconic promenade stretching along the Thermaic Gulf, ideal for walking, cycling, sunsets, and classic city views.
- Must visit
Ano Poli
The old upper town with traditional houses, narrow lanes, viewpoints, and a more local, historic atmosphere.
- Vegetarian
Bougatsa
A signature Thessaloniki pastry made with flaky phyllo, most famously filled with semolina custard, though cheese or minced meat versions are also common. It is one of the city’s most iconic breakfast
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Koulouri Thessalonikis
The city’s famous sesame bread ring, sold by street vendors and bakeries since Ottoman times. It is a simple, everyday snack strongly associated with Thessaloniki.
- Vegetarian
Trigona Panoramatos
A local dessert from the Panorama area: crisp triangular phyllo pastries filled with rich cream. It is one of Thessaloniki’s best-known sweets and a classic local treat.
Clochard
A long-running fine dining restaurant serving Greek and Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant setting, suitable for a more upscale meal.
Mourga
A respected contemporary taverna known for expertly cooked seafood and seasonal Greek dishes. It has a simple, modern feel and a strong local reputation.
Full tou Meze
A well-known meze restaurant in Ladadika, popular for classic Greek small plates, seafood, and lively atmosphere in a historic setting.
Euro
Generally cheaper than Athens and many Western European cities. Dining and local transport are good value, while summer hotels in central areas cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-12 for gyros, bakery food, or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-30 per person for a casual restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- EUR 50-90 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 2.50-4 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
A tip is appreciated but not mandatory. Leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service, round up taxis, and small change is enough in cafes.
OASTH Telematics
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 0.90
- Day pass
- EUR 2.50
To the city center
Thessaloniki Airport Makedonia, Thessaloniki -> Aristotelous Square, Thessaloniki
- Distance
- 15 km
- Travel time
- 35 min
- Validate your paper ticket when boarding and keep it until the end of the trip.
- You can usually buy bus tickets from airport ticket machines and OASTH sales points; card payment availability on board is limited.
Discover Greece’s train route to from Athens to Thessaloniki
Board the InterCity from Athens Central Station in the morning or afternoon and enjoy modern coaches with spacious seats, power outlets and onboard Wi-Fi. Find your seat, stow your luggage, and settle in as the train glides out of the city, friendly staff are on hand to help with any questions. This is classic Greek relaxation and hospitality, on the move. As you travel north, the route follows the Thermaic Gulf shoreline before crossing the plains of Central Macedonia and winding into the foothills of Mount Olympus. Panoramic windows frame ever-changing landscapes, from seaside villages and sparkling waters to rolling olive groves and rugged hills, culminating in your arrival at Thessaloniki’s vibrant central station in just over 4 hours. It’s time to stretch your legs as you wander the streets of Greece’s second largest city.
When to Book Your Thessaloniki to Athens Ticket
[Hellenic Train (OSE)](NEEDS PROVIDER PAGE) typically releases tickets 60 days before departure. For the best availability on InterCity and Regional services, book 1–2 months in advance, particularly during summer and holiday periods. Use Omio’s price alerts on the Omio app to catch any promotional offers.
How to Buy Cheap Thessaloniki to Athens Train Tickets
- Travel off-peak. Midweek journeys and non-holiday times offer lower fares.
- Book early. Advance fares start around €20 for standard seats.
- Compare service classes. Economy tickets are cheaper than flexible fares.
- Use rail passes. A Eurail Greece Rail Pass can cover multiple journeys for one price.
- Set price alerts. Enable Omio’s notifications on the Omio app to always find the best deal.
Top Train Routes
| Connection | Duration | From € |
|---|---|---|
| Athens → Larissa | 3 h 22 m | €33 |
| Larissa → Thessaloniki | 1 h 30 m | €8 |
| Athens → Lamia | ~2 h 2 m | €9 |
| Lamia → Thessaloniki | 2 h 50 m | €12 |
Standard Hellenic Train tickets include one carry-on and one checked bag up to 23 kg free of charge. Oversized items may incur additional fees, see our Travel Company Policies for details.
Flexible fares allow free changes up to 24 hours before departure. Advance (non-flex) fares may be changed for a fee (€5–€10) or are non-refundable. Always review fare conditions when booking or see How to change or cancel a ticket.
FAQs: Trains from Athens to Thessaloniki
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Athens to Thessaloniki by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Thessaloniki, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Athens to Thessaloniki can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $25 (€20), while the average price is around $25 (€20).
The train from Athens to Thessaloniki runs once a day and takes approximately 5h 12m.
The distance by train from Athens to Thessaloniki is 188 miles (303 km).
The first train from Athens to Thessaloniki leaves at 6:58 AM.
The last train from Athens to Thessaloniki leaves at 5:58 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Athens to Thessaloniki.
Yes, there is a direct train from Athens to Thessaloniki. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Hellenic Train S.A..
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Athens to Thessaloniki.
The cheapest way to get from Athens to Thessaloniki is by train, with a cost of around $25 (€20).
The train journey from Athens to Thessaloniki is considered scenic, offering views of the Greek countryside, including rolling hills, traditional villages, and the stunning landscape near Mount Olympus.
A day trip from Athens to Thessaloniki is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 12m. Trains run 3 times per day over a distance of 188 miles (303 km).
In Thessaloniki, you can explore the Museum of Byzantine Culture to see Byzantine art and artifacts, visit the Thessaloniki Concert Hall for music and performances, and enjoy the vibrant local markets. For sightseeing, the White Tower offers panoramic views, while the Rotunda of Galerius and the Church of Agios Dimitrios provide historical insights. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, discover the nightlife in the lively Ladadika district, and explore the old town area of Ano Poli for stunning views and traditional architecture. Don't miss Aristotelous Square for its impressive architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
Three days in Thessaloniki is ideal to explore its rich history, vibrant culture, and enjoy local cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Athens to Thessaloniki.
Since both Athens and Thessaloniki are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Athens to Thessaloniki among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Greece uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cash is often preferred in smaller shops, local markets, and remote areas, while cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments.
In Thessaloniki, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transportation, and popular tourist sites. Scams involving overpriced taxis or unlicensed drivers are common, so using official taxi services or pre-booked transportation is advised. Travelers should also be alert to distraction techniques used by scammers in busy spots. Overall, maintaining awareness of belongings and using reputable transportation options helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
Most popular train connections from Athens
More options for your journey from Athens to Thessaloniki
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Most popular trains to and from Thessaloniki and Athens
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