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Athens to Thessaloniki from $9: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Athens, Greece
to
Thessaloniki, Greece

How to Get from Athens to Thessaloniki: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$9 by trainBest price
190 milesDistance
3h 30m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Athens to Thessaloniki with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Hellenic Train
Train
Average Duration
4h  53m
Estimated price
$9-30
Recommended
Company
Hellenic Train
Train
Average Duration
4h  53m
Estimated price
$9-30
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 190 miles
Duration: 3h 30m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
KTEL Thessalonikis
Bus
Average Duration
5h  45m
Estimated price
$46-46
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  30m
Estimated price
$55-150
Company
Blue Star Ferries
Drive
Average Duration
27h  20m
Estimated price
$90-180
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  58m
Estimated price
$100-160

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Fly $58 $51 $62 $58 $70 $58 $62
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Traveling From Athens to Thessaloniki

The journey from Athens to Thessaloniki offers a vibrant shift from Greece's bustling capital, filled with ancient landmarks, to a dynamic city rich in cultural diversity and culinary delights.

Best Neighbourhoods in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki boasts vibrant neighborhoods each with distinct character and charm.

Ladadika
• Known for its lively nightlife and dining scene.
• Offers beautifully restored 19th-century architecture.
Ano Poli
• Features stunning views of the city and sea.
• Home to traditional tavernas and rich history.
White Tower Area
• Iconic landmark surrounded by parks and cafes.
• Great starting point for waterfront explorations.

Best Times To Visit Thessaloniki's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Thessaloniki by timing your visits smartly.

White Tower
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy quieter views.
Rotunda
Afternoons during weekdays are ideal for avoiding large groups.
Aristotle Square
Stroll in the early evening to soak in the lively atmosphere.

Thessaloniki Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Thessaloniki enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it a pleasant destination throughout the year. Late spring and early fall are particularly enjoyable times to visit, as you'll experience comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining in Thessaloniki: A Culinary Delight

Try the city’s famous ‘Bougatsa,’ a flaky pastry filled with custard, cheese, or minced meat, at one of Thessaloniki's local bakeries like Bougatsa Rodos. The culinary journey here reveals a distinct emphasis on regional flavors and local ingredients, providing a cozy atmosphere that feels more intimate and authentic than many establishments in Athens.

Athens - Thessaloniki operators

Explore transport companies operating between Athens and Thessaloniki, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
14511
Website
https://www.hellenictrain.gr/en

Train from Athens to Thessaloniki

Average Duration
4h 53m
Estimated price
$9-30
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+30 2310 510835
Website
http://ktelthes.gr

Bus from Athens to Thessaloniki Monastiriou

Average Duration
5h 45m
Estimated price
$46-46
Plane Show flights
Website
https://en.aegeanair.com

Plane from Athens (ATH) to Thessaloniki (SKG)

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$55-170
Website
https://skyexpress.gr

Plane from Athens (ATH) to Thessaloniki (SKG)

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$50-160
Ferry
Contact phone
+302108919800
Website
https://www.bluestarferries.com/en-gb/

Ferry from Piraeus to Thessaloniki

Average Duration
27h 20m
Estimated price
$90-180

Athens to Thessaloniki: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Athens and Thessaloniki offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque journey from Athens to Thessaloniki, spanning a driving distance of 500.5 km. 💰 Explore the budget-friendly options available for traveling from Athens to Thessaloniki by car, with prices ranging from €92 to €148. ⏱️ Delight in a road trip adventure that takes approximately 4 hours and 58 minutes from Athens to Thessaloniki. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Greece as you navigate through this charming route.
Average price
€92 - €148
🛤️ The train journey between Athens and Thessaloniki takes approximately 4 hours and 53 minutes, covering a distance of 499 km. 💰 Ticket prices for the Athens to Thessaloniki train route range from €8 to €28, offering budget-friendly options for travelers.
Departure Point
Athens station
Arrival Point
Thessaloniki station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services vary slightly between operators, but generally, both TrainOSE and Hellenic Train offer catering services, including snacks and beverages. You can find a selection of light meals, sandwiches, and drinks available for purchase on the train. Be sure to check the train's catering service menu when you board, as specific offerings may change.
• The seating options on the trains from Athens to Thessaloniki include Economy, Business, and First Class. Economy seats are more affordable and suitable for budget travelers, while Business Class provides a more comfortable and spacious option with additional amenities. First-Class seats offer the highest comfort level with greater legroom and premium services. Depending on your budget and desire for comfort, choose accordingly.
• The main operators for the Athens to Thessaloniki route are TrainOSE (now known as Hellenic Train) and the recently introduced Intercity trains. You can visit their websites for more information and ticket bookings: Hellenic Train. Additionally, consider checking the local transport schedules on OSY for public transit in Thessaloniki.
🛫 Experience a swift and convenient journey from Athens to Thessaloniki by opting for a direct flight that only takes 50 minutes with airlines such as Sky Express and Aegean Airlines. ✈️ Travelers can enjoy a relatively short flight duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes from Athens to Thessaloniki, allowing for a quick and efficient trip between these vibrant Greek cities. 💸 The cost of flights between Thessaloniki and Athens typically ranges from €53 to €131, providing travelers with a range of options to suit their budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Athens Airport
Arrival Point
Thessaloniki Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book your flight in advance with Aegean Airlines or Sky Express, as prices range from €51 to €127, and early reservations often yield better rates, especially for peak travel times.
• Upon arrival at Thessaloniki Airport (SKG), expect a small but efficient terminal; follow the signage to the baggage claim area, and consider downloading the airport map from Thessaloniki Airport's official site to help navigate easily.
• Taxi fares from Thessaloniki Airport to the city center typically cost around €20-€30, and it’s advisable to take a licensed taxi queue outside the arrivals hall to ensure fair prices and safety.
🚌 Traveling from Athens to Thessaloniki by bus offers a convenient and scenic way to explore Greece. The direct bus service operates daily, departing every three hours. The journey typically lasts around 5 hours and 45 minutes. 🛣️ The bus route from Athens to Thessaloniki covers a distance of approximately 504 km, taking travelers through the beautiful landscapes of Greece. 💰 With ticket prices typically around €42 for the bus journey between Thessaloniki and Athens, travelers can enjoy an affordable and hassle-free trip. The reliable services provided by KTEL Thessalonikis ensure a smooth travel experience, allowing visitors to make the most of their time in both cities.
Departure Point
Athens station
Arrival Point
Thessaloniki Monastiriou station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Arrive early at the Kifisou bus station in Athens to secure your preferred seating on the KTEL Thessalonikis bus, as it can get crowded during peak travel times; you can find further details about schedules and bookings at ktelthes.gr
• During your approximately 5h 45m journey, enjoy the scenic views of the Greek countryside and stay hydrated; consider packing snacks or purchasing some at kiosks available at the bus station before departure.
• Upon arriving at Thessaloniki Monastiriou station, make use of public transportation options right outside the station, such as buses or taxis, to reach your final destination; you can review local bus routes and schedules here: oasth.gr

Trips from Athens