- Must visit
Acropolis Museum
World-class museum for Acropolis finds, with superb archaic sculptures and Parthenon marbles displayed in a striking modern building.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Thessaloniki to Athens
Showing times and prices for Aug 26
Cheapest price
€20
Average price
€20
Fastest journey
5 h 8 m
Average duration
5 h 8 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
303 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Thessaloniki to Athens is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Thessaloniki to Athens will cost around €20 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €20.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Thessaloniki for Athens on Wed, Aug 26, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 26 the direct trains cover the 303 km distance in an average of 5 h 8 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 8 m .
On Wed, Aug 26 the slowest trains will take 5 h 8 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.
5:55 AM5h08Thessaloniki11:03 AMAthens€201One-way0 transfers- 4:49 PM5h08Thessaloniki9:57 PMAthens€201One-way0 transfers
- 5:55 AM5h08Thessaloniki11:03 AMAthens€201One-way0 transfers
- 4:49 PM5h08Thessaloniki9:57 PMAthens€201One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, ferry, and flight for Thessaloniki to Athens
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Thessaloniki to Athens among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €20. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 2m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €20, and a ferry costs an average of €76.
Distance: 188 miles (303 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Ferry | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
€20 Average price Cheapest | €73 Average price | €96 Average price | €40 Average price | €128 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 38m Average total duration 5h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 2m Average total duration Fastest 2h 2m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 17h 12m Average total duration 16h 12m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 6h 15m Average total duration 5h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 21m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Thessaloniki to Athens is a train with an average price of €20.
This is compared to other travel options from Thessaloniki to Athens:
A train is €20 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Thessaloniki to Athens costing on average €40.
A train is €53 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Thessaloniki to Athens costing on average €73.
A train is €76 less than a ferry for this route with tickets for a ferry from Thessaloniki to Athens costing on average €96.
The fastest way to travel from Thessaloniki to Athens is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 2m.
Other travel options to Athens take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 8m.
Bus takes on average 5h 45m.
Ferry takes on average 16h 12m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 4 ways to travel between Thessaloniki and Athens including taking a train, bus, ferry, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Thessaloniki to Athens among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 13m faster (5h 8m by train vs 5h 21m by car) and roughly €108 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (€20 vs €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
Thessaloniki to Athens train times
The table below shows live departures for Thessaloniki to Athens trains for today, Tuesday, August 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:55 AM Thessaloniki | 5h08 | 11:03 AM Athens | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:49 PM Thessaloniki | 5h08 | 9:57 PM Athens | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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Thessaloniki to Athens by trainThessaloniki to Athens by Train: An InterCity Journey Back South
By Estefanía Ojea
Estefanía OjeaContent Editor and Travel Writer
Estefanía Ojea is a content editor and travel writer who has been working in digital writing since 2011 and focusing on travel content since 2020. Based in Galicia, Spain, she enjoys exploring cities slowly and seeking out unusual places such as historic cemeteries, curious churches, and the occasional slightly macabre landmark. She is particularly fond of train travel as a way to discover new destinations across Europe.
I took the train from Thessaloniki to Athens after spending some days in the city. I could have taken a flight, but I wanted to travel again by train across the country and enjoy the landscape from the window of the train. I booked my ticket online from Omio and opted for an InterCity train, which are some of the trains that run directly between these two cities. It is a long trip, but it is also one of the main routes in Greece by train, and it is quite relaxed.
Cats on doorway in Athens
Route overview
The railway stretches over about 300 kilometers and connects the two cities, i.e., Thessaloniki and Athens, through InterCity trains. The duration required to complete the train journey varies from 4.5 to 5 hours, depending on the train and the number of halts it makes. Starting from Thessaloniki, the train travels south through the plain of Thessaly and then proceeds towards central Greece and the outskirts of Athens.
Transportation experience
Before going to the station, I spent a bit of time near the port. I went to a small Greek tavern and ordered a few pieces of meat tapas. I then went to a pastry shop and ordered a trigona filled with custard as I was going towards the station. It cost me less than €15 in total, and I thought it was a good meal before leaving the city. I then went to the train at Thessaloniki Railway Station. Shortly after leaving the city, the buildings disappeared and the view changed to agricultural plains and small villages. Further south, near the city of Larissa, the view changes and becomes more dramatic. The old sections of the railway went up a steep escarpment overlooking the Thessalian plain. Some sections were replaced when the railway was upgraded, but the views over the plains and the mountains are quite nice from the train.
Departure station
Thessaloniki Railway Station is a main railway station in northern Greece. The station is fairly simple in design, with departure boards in the main waiting room and access directly onto the platforms. I arrived a little early at the station, checked the departure board, and waited near the platform until boarding began. In comparison with other main railway stations in Europe, this one has a quieter atmosphere.
Arrival station
The train arrives at Athens Central Railway Station, commonly known as Larissa Station. From there it’s easy to continue into the city using the Athens metro system. Metro line 2 stops directly at the station, which makes it one of the easiest ways to reach other parts of Athens after arriving. After several hours on the train, stepping back into Athens feels noticeably different from Thessaloniki. The streets around the station are busy again almost immediately, and the pace of the city picks up quickly.
Schedule & frequency
InterCity trains run daily between Thessaloniki and Athens. There are several departures spread throughout the day, though the route is less frequent than many shorter regional services. Most trains travel directly between the two cities and the journey typically takes between four and five hours.
Onboard experience & services
The InterCity trains used on this route are designed for longer trips and have comfortable seating with reasonable legroom. There is also room for luggage near the doors and above the seats. One thing I didn’t anticipate that day was the heat. Thessaloniki can be very hot during the summer, and when I was taking the train, the heat was already intense before I even got on the train. If you’re planning the same trip during the summer months, it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast and bring some water for the trip. Most people seemed to be settling in for the long trip by either reading a book, using their phone, or gazing out the window as the train headed south.
Ticketing advice & budget breakdown
Ticket prices depend on the train and when the ticket is purchased, but the route remains relatively affordable for a journey that crosses much of the country. I booked my ticket through Omio so I could compare departure times and choose the InterCity service that suited my schedule. Here’s roughly what my travel costs looked like:
| Item | Cost (eur) |
|---|---|
| Ticket price | €45 |
| Food & drinks | €15 |
| Travel to departure station | €2 |
| Travel from arrival station | €1.20 |
| Total | € 63.2 |
Top tips & recommendations
- It is worth checking the weather forecast in Thessaloniki if you are making the trip in the summer, as it can be quite hot.
- Arrive at Thessaloniki railway station a bit early to check the platform number.
- Take some reading and some water with you on the train.
- A window seat is recommended if you want to enjoy the view as you pass through central Greece.
- If you have some time to spare before leaving Thessaloniki, the area by the port is worth going to for some food.
Conclusion
Taking the train from Thessaloniki to Athens takes a long time, but it’s also a very relaxed way to cross mainland Greece and see some of the countryside that you would miss entirely if you flew. For me, it began with a meal in a restaurant near the port and ended hours later in the bustling streets around Larissa Station again. The details of the route are part of the memory of the trip itself.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Thessaloniki to Athens
GreeceGreece
Trains from Thessaloniki to Athens run on average 1 times per day, taking around 5h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €20 if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:55, the last at 16:49. The fastest train covers the 188 miles (303 km) distance in 5h 8m.
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 8m |
Cheapest ticket price €20 |
Trains per day 1 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 5h 8m |
First train 5:55 AM |
Last train 4:49 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 Thessaloniki to Athens trainsHellenic Train S.A. trains will get you between Thessaloniki and Athens from €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 8m
Cheapest Price
€20
Hellenic Train S.A. frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Athens
Things to do in Athens
Discover the best of Athens — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Athens trip today.
- Must visit
National Archaeological Museum
Greece’s premier archaeology museum, spanning prehistory to late antiquity. Essential for masterpieces from across the country.
- Recommended
Museum of Cycladic Art
Outstanding museum of Cycladic art and ancient Greek culture. Known for elegant figurines and thoughtful contemporary presentation.
- Must visit
Plaka
Athens’ oldest neighborhood charms with neoclassical houses, lanes, and easy access to major ancient sites and traditional atmosphere.
- Must visit
Monastiraki Square
Busy square and market district known for street life, shopping, and strong transport links. Ideal for feeling the city’s energy.
- Must visit
Syntagma Square
Central ceremonial square before Parliament. A practical hub for visitors and a prime place to watch the guard-changing ritual.
Moussaka
Moussaka is a baked casserole of eggplant, minced meat, potato, and béchamel, iconic in Greek home cooking and tavern menus.
Souvlaki
Souvlaki is grilled skewered pork or chicken, a classic Athens street food, usually served with pita, onions, and tzatziki.
- Vegetarian
Spanakopita
Spanakopita is a flaky pie filled with spinach, herbs, and feta, a beloved everyday snack found in bakeries across Athens.
Spondi
Michelin-starred restaurant offering refined modern Greek cuisine and Acropolis views in an elegant setting.
Klimataria
Long-standing Psiri taverna serving classic Greek dishes, live music, and a warm traditional atmosphere.
Varvakios
Historic central market taverna known for grilled meats and traditional meze in a lively, old Athens setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Europe; hotels in peak season rise, but dining and transit stay fairly reasonable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or modest. Round up or leave 5-10% at restaurants, round taxi fares up, and leave small change at cafes.
FAQs: Trains from Thessaloniki to Athens
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Thessaloniki to Athens 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 Athens, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Thessaloniki to Athens can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €20, while the average price is around €20.
The train from Thessaloniki to Athens runs once a day and takes approximately 5h 8m.
The first train from Thessaloniki to Athens leaves at 5:55 AM.
The distance by train from Thessaloniki to Athens is 188 miles (303 km).
The last train from Thessaloniki to Athens leaves at 4:49 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Thessaloniki to Athens.
Yes, there is a direct train from Thessaloniki to Athens. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Hellenic Train S.A..
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Thessaloniki to Athens.
The cheapest way to get from Thessaloniki to Athens is by train, with a cost of around €20.
The train journey from Thessaloniki to Athens is considered scenic, as it passes through diverse landscapes including the lush green valleys, the picturesque Tempi Valley, and offers views of Mount Olympus and coastal areas, providing a varied and visually appealing travel experience.
A day trip from Thessaloniki to Athens is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 8m. Trains run 4 times per day over a distance of 188 miles (303 km).
In Athens, you can enjoy panoramic views from Mount Lycabettus, explore the vibrant Monastiraki Flea Market for antiques and souvenirs, and visit the Panathenaic Stadium, the only marble stadium in the world. Take a peaceful stroll through the National Garden of Athens or experience a traditional Greek performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Don't miss the Acropolis of Athens with its iconic Parthenon, the insightful Acropolis Museum, the historic Ancient Agora, and the extensive collections at the National Archaeological Museum. Wander through Plaka's narrow streets filled with neoclassical architecture and vibrant local shops and cafes.
Three to four days are ideal to explore Athens, allowing time to visit major attractions like the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Ancient Agora, while also enjoying local cuisine and culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Thessaloniki to Athens.
Since both Thessaloniki and Athens 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 Thessaloniki to Athens 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 Athens, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, popular tourist sites, and markets. Common scams include unofficial taxi drivers overcharging or taking longer routes, and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to use official taxis or ride-hailing apps, keep valuables secure, and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals.
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.
More options for your journey from Thessaloniki to Athens
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Athens and Thessaloniki
Most popular train connections to Athens
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