Getting from Thessaloniki to Athens

If you are heading to Athens from Thessaloniki you are making your way from the second largest city in Greece to the capital, the most well connected city in the country and one of the most travelled routes in Greece.

Getting there by air

Thessaloniki has an international airport with multiple daily flights to Athens taking around 55 minutes. It is the fastest option and useful when time is short, though the combined journey time including airport transfers makes it less compelling than the train for many travelers.

Take the train, bus or drive

Thessaloniki is connected to Athens by intercity train, taking around 4 to 5 hours and running several times daily. The KTEL bus from Thessaloniki Monastiriou terminal to Athens runs frequently throughout the day and takes around 5 to 6 hours. The drive from Thessaloniki to Athens takes around 5 to 6 hours via the E75 motorway. All three are practical options and the train in particular offers a comfortable and scenic journey down the eastern spine of mainland Greece.

Take the ferry

There is an overnight ferry from Thessaloniki to Piraeus running occasionally, though it is not a regular scheduled service and is rarely the most practical option given the frequency and speed of the road and rail connections.

Your best option

Take the intercity train from Thessaloniki to Athens. At around 4 to 5 hours it is comfortable, direct and avoids the airport entirely. The KTEL bus is a good alternative at a lower price point. If you are traveling with a car, drive via the E75 motorway which is a straightforward journey of around 5 to 6 hours. Flying is best reserved for when time is genuinely tight.