Getting from Thessaloniki to Katerini

If you are heading to Katerini from Thessaloniki you are making your way from the second largest city in Greece to a city at the foot of Mount Olympus on the Pierian coast, remarkably close in geographic terms given both sit in the northern part of Greece. It has the mountain rising steeply behind it and the beaches of the Pieria coast below.

Getting there by air

Katerini has no airport. The nearest airport is Thessaloniki, around 70 kilometres to the north. Flying is not a practical option for this short connection given the direct road link between the two cities.

Take the train, bus or drive

Thessaloniki is connected to Katerini by road, taking around 1 to 1.5 hours via the E75 motorway. The KTEL bus from Thessaloniki runs frequently to Katerini and takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. The intercity train also stops at Katerini on the Athens to Thessaloniki line. It is one of the most straightforward connections from Thessaloniki given the short distance and direct motorway link.

Take the ferry

There is no ferry from Thessaloniki to Katerini. Both are mainland cities connected only by road and rail.

Your best option

Drive from Thessaloniki to Katerini via the E75 motorway. At around 1 to 1.5 hours it is the most direct and effortless approach. The KTEL bus is a good alternative if you are traveling without a car. Katerini is an excellent base for exploring Mount Olympus and the Pieria coast, both within easy reach by car.