Greece – Rail Travel

What is the standard of rail travel in Greece?

Greece operates a centralised national rail system in which the state-owned Hellenic Railways Organisation (OSE) manages the underlying infrastructure, while passenger services are delivered by Hellenic Train — a privately held company belonging to Italy’s national rail group, Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane. Originally a subsidiary of OSE, the operator became an independent state-owned entity in 2008, was privatised and acquired by Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane in 2017, and adopted the Hellenic Train name in 2022. This arrangement bears a loose resemblance to the UK’s franchise model, in which private companies run train services on publicly owned track — though the Greek network is vastly smaller by comparison.

The network spans approximately 2,552 km of track, with around 210 stations, and approximately 62% of lines are electrified (as of 2021). Rail coverage is concentrated on the Greek mainland; the islands receive no rail services at all, and many rural and regional areas are either poorly connected or have lost services completely. All passenger operations on the metre-gauge lines of the Peloponnese — aside from the picturesque Diakofto–Kalavryta railway — were discontinued in 2011.

The condition of the rail network has faced intense public and political scrutiny following a catastrophic incident. On 28 February 2023, Greece endured its deadliest rail disaster when 57 people lost their lives in the Tempi collision, caused when a Hellenic Train service from Athens met a freight train heading from Thessaloniki head-on, reportedly because a stationmaster failed to redirect one of the trains to a separate track. The tragedy laid bare deep-seated structural and safety failings, and triggered a sweeping reform agenda.

For those planning a move to Greece, the encouraging development is that the rail sector is now experiencing its most intensive period of investment in a generation. A revised public service contract has been concluded with Hellenic Train, securing €420 million in private investment, the purchase of 23 new electric trains to be delivered by 2027, tighter performance obligations, and improved passenger protections aligned with European rail safety standards. In 2025, a separate agreement was reached with Deutsche Bahn to support the modernisation of Greece’s railway operations.

By summer 2026, the Athens–Thessaloniki corridor is expected to be equipped with full double-track signalling and ETCS automatic braking technology. Once these upgrades are complete and the new trains are in service, journey times between Athens and Thessaloniki are projected to drop below 3.5 hours. In the meantime, punctuality remains variable, and delays — particularly on older trains and regional lines — should be anticipated.

Are there different classes of rail travel in Greece, and what are the differences?

Hellenic Train offers three categories of long-distance passenger service: “Regular” trains, which stop most frequently and are the slowest option; Express trains, which make fewer intermediate calls; and Intercity (IC) trains, which are the fastest and carry a higher fare. These represent distinct service tiers rather than classes within the same train, though Intercity trains themselves are further divided into seating classes.

On board individual trains, passengers choose between first and second class. The principal practical distinction is that first class provides marginally greater legroom and space. On older rolling stock, first class tends to feature enclosed compartments seating either four or six passengers, while second class uses open-plan carriages. First-class compartment layouts can differ — some accommodate six passengers with three seats on each side, while others seat just two per side with a table in between.

The premium ETR tilting train service linking Athens and Thessaloniki offers a higher standard throughout both classes. These nine-car ETR formations are wheelchair-accessible and include first-class cabins, a restaurant and bar carriage, luggage storage facilities, and Wi-Fi. On certain longer Intercity services, refreshment trolleys also make their way through the carriages.

Is first class worth the additional fare? For shorter trips, the benefit is fairly modest. Passengers who have travelled both classes on the Athens–Kalambaka route have noted that the difference in personal space is not dramatic, and that compartment-style first-class seating can actually feel rather confined, with sightlines to the window depending heavily on which seat you occupy. On longer journeys, the quieter surroundings and somewhat more spacious seating may justify the premium. Consult the Hellenic Train website for up-to-date fare comparisons between the two classes before making a reservation.

The forthcoming Alstom Coradia Stream trains — scheduled for delivery by 2027 — will raise standards across the entire fleet. Capable of reaching 160 km/h, they will feature generously sized luggage racks, power sockets for charging personal devices, and dedicated spaces for bicycles and pushchairs in each carriage.

Where can I find rail timetables and ticket prices for Greece?

The definitive source for timetable and fare information is the official Hellenic Train website: hellenictrain.gr. Train schedules are accessible directly at hellenictrain.gr/en/train-schedules. The site operates in both Greek and English and allows users to search routes, view departure times, check fares, and purchase tickets in one place.

For details on infrastructure works, engineering closures, and network planning, the Hellenic Railways Organisation (OSE) publishes annual Network Statements at ose.gr. The Hellenic Train announcements page also provides updates on engineering works and prolonged line closures — useful reading for anyone who commutes regularly and wants to anticipate upcoming disruptions.

Third-party platforms such as Railcc (rail.cc), Rail Europe, and Eurail also publish timetable and pricing data for Greek rail services and can be helpful for comparison purposes. That said, for the most reliable and current fares, always cross-check directly on the official Hellenic Train site, as prices and schedules are subject to revision.

To speak with someone directly, Hellenic Train’s customer service line can be reached at +30 2130 121 121. Given that timetables and fares shift frequently — especially during infrastructure upgrade phases — it is always advisable to consult official sources before finalising travel plans.

How and where can I buy rail tickets in Greece?

Purchasing rail tickets in Greece is generally straightforward, with multiple options available. The most practical approach for the majority of travellers is booking directly through the Hellenic Train website or its ticketing portal. Long-distance services, suburban trains, and the narrow-gauge scenic route such as Diakofto–Kalavryta can all be booked without creating an account — simply use the journey search tool, pick your service, select a seat, and pay.

Tickets are also available at station ticket counters (found at major hubs such as Athens Larissa Station and Thessaloniki Station) or, on certain services, from staff on board. Most trains allow passengers to purchase tickets on the day at the station, while a handful of services require advance seat reservations, which can be made either online or at any staffed station across the country.

Mobile and electronic tickets are fully accepted on Hellenic Train services. After booking online, you receive a confirmation that can be displayed on a smartphone or printed out. When buying a ticket, passengers can choose their seat, though reservation is not always compulsory — the Athens suburban service, for instance, does not require a seat reservation when an electronic ticket is purchased.

Booking ahead is strongly advisable — especially for Intercity and ETR services — both to secure your preferred seat and to take advantage of lower fares. Trains on popular routes can become very busy, so reserving in advance is worthwhile. During peak travel periods, trains can sell out entirely. For suburban and regional routes, walk-up tickets are generally obtainable at the station, but booking online in advance guarantees your place and may result in a lower price.

1. Visit hellenictrain.gr and use the trip finder to search your route and date.
2. Select your preferred service type (Regular, Express, or Intercity/ETR) and available departure time.
3. Choose your class (first or second) and select your preferred seat from the seat map.
4. Enter passenger details and apply any eligible discount category (student, senior, disabled, etc.).
5. Complete payment online. You will receive an e-ticket by email.
6. Present your e-ticket on your phone or as a printout when boarding. No need to exchange at the station for most services.

What types of rail tickets are available in Greece, and are discounts available?

Hellenic Train sells single (one-way) and return tickets on all routes. Tickets are normally tied to a specific date, time, and train. Fully open or flexible tickets — allowing travel on any service on a chosen day without a fixed departure time — are less widely available than in some other European countries. For commuters who use the same route frequently, multi-journey cards exist on certain suburban and regional services.

Travel cards offered by Hellenic Train give passengers fare reductions and more convenient travel arrangements on selected routes or within defined time periods. These cards permit multiple trips within a particular area or window of time, and multi-trip cards on specific routes provide meaningful savings for regular users. Monthly multi-journey cards are available on routes such as Lianokladi–Stylida, with a reduced rate for university students (as of 2025 — confirm current prices at hellenictrain.gr).

Buying tickets well in advance can make a noticeable difference to what you pay. Hellenic Train rewards early purchase with discounts of between 5% and 15%: 15% off for tickets bought 60 days ahead, 10% off for 30 days in advance, and 5% off for 15 days in advance (as of 2025 — check hellenictrain.gr for current terms).

A broad range of passenger discount categories is available, covering children’s fares, pupils, students (25% reduction), large families, passengers aged 65 and over, young travellers, people with disabilities, and carers accompanying disabled passengers (as of 2025). The over-65 discount ranges from 20% to 50% depending on the service (as of 2025 — verify current rates at hellenictrain.gr).

Student discounts apply to particular routes. Reduced fares are offered on regional lines including Athens–Chalkida, Thessaloniki–Larissa, Thessaloniki–Florina, the suburban Patras service, and the Lianokladi–Stylida line; eligibility requires presentation of a valid academic ID from a Greek university or public IEK (as of 2025). Students enrolled at international institutions should check with Hellenic Train directly, as non-Greek academic ID cards may not automatically qualify for the reduction.

For occasional long-distance travel, the Eurail Greece Pass covers Hellenic Train services and also offers reductions on certain international ferry crossings. However, for people living in Greece on a long-term basis, the Eurail pass is rarely the most economical option when weighed against advance-purchase tickets or multi-journey cards. Compare all available options on the Hellenic Train discounts page and at eurail.com before deciding.

How suitable is the rail network in Greece for disabled passengers?

Accessibility across the Greek rail network is improving, but the picture remains uneven. Newer and recently upgraded rolling stock — such as the ETR trains on the Athens–Thessaloniki corridor — is considerably more accessible than the older carriages found on regional routes. The Alstom Coradia Stream trains arriving by 2027 will bring the fleet into much closer alignment with modern European accessibility benchmarks.

Hellenic Train trains include specially equipped carriages for passengers with disabilities, though restrictions apply to the dimensions of wheelchairs that can be accommodated on long-distance services. Assistance with boarding and alighting must be arranged in advance: passengers requiring this support need to confirm their journey at least 48 hours before departure, either by calling Hellenic Train on 2130 121 121 or by submitting the relevant form on their website.

Discounted fares for passengers with disabilities are available upon presentation of a Special Pass for Persons with Disabilities bearing current validation (as of 2025 — confirm eligibility and terms at hellenictrain.gr). Accompanying carers may also qualify for a reduced fare.

Station accessibility varies widely. Major hubs such as Athens Larissa Station and Thessaloniki Station have received upgrades including ramps, lifts, and improved platform access, but many smaller regional stations — particularly on older sections of the network — still lack step-free access and related provisions. This stands in contrast to the near-universal step-free access that has become standard in countries such as Germany or the Netherlands. Greece is working towards compliance with EU accessibility requirements, but a number of stations have yet to meet those standards.

For the most accurate and current details on accessibility provisions, contact Hellenic Train via their customer service line (+30 2130 121 121) or visit the accessibility section of hellenictrain.gr. For Athens Metro accessibility information, visit stasy.gr.

Are there metros, underground trains, or urban rail systems in Greece?

Athens is home to a well-regarded metro system and the most developed urban rapid transit network in the country. Residents of the capital will find themselves relying on it regularly — it is modern, largely underground, air-conditioned, and easy to navigate, with three main lines each identified by a distinct colour. The metro operates from 5:30 am until midnight on weekdays, and from 5:30 am until 2:30 am on weekends, and is equipped with air conditioning and Wi-Fi throughout.

Line 1 — affectionately known as the “Ilektrikos” — is the oldest of the three and runs mostly above ground, linking Piraeus (the main port) with Kifisia in the northern suburbs. Lines 2 and 3 are the newer underground lines, extending across central Athens and beyond, with Line 3 providing a direct connection to the airport. Athens Metro ticketing is integrated with buses, trolleybuses, and the city tram network under the OASA transport authority, enabling a single ticket to cover multiple modes of travel.

A standard single ticket within the Athens urban zone costs €1.20 and remains valid for 90 minutes across all OASA transport modes (as of 2025 — check oasa.gr for current fares). Contactless payment using bank cards or virtual wallets including Apple Pay and Google Pay is now accepted for full-fare products, covering both the 90-minute €1.20 ticket and the 24-hour €4.10 ticket (as of 2025). Longer-term passes — available for 30, 90, 180 days, or a full year — are loaded onto a personalised ATH.ENA card, making them the practical choice for residents.

Athens is also served by the Proastiakos suburban railway, operated by Hellenic Train. The Proastiakos extends from central Athens out to surrounding suburbs and to nearby cities such as Kiato, Chalkida, and Corinth, making it a good option for residents living outside the metro catchment area or near the airport. Standard OASA tickets cover portions of the Proastiakos within the urban zone; journeys into the outer suburban area require separate Proastiakos tickets.

Thessaloniki now has its own metro. The driverless 10 km Line 1 of the Thessaloniki Metro, running from the New Railway Station to Nea Helvetia, opened on 30 November 2024 after an extended construction period — a major milestone for residents of Greece’s second city. For Athens Metro information, visit stasy.gr; for the Thessaloniki Metro, see ametro.gr. For OASA ticketing across all Athens transport modes, visit oasa.gr.

What practical tips should expats know about using the rail network in Greece?

Anyone accustomed to rail networks with rigorous timetable adherence — Japan’s Shinkansen or the Swiss Federal Railways, for example — will need to recalibrate their expectations when using Greek trains. Delays are a genuine possibility, particularly on regional routes and older rolling stock. The main Intercity and ETR services between Athens and Thessaloniki tend to perform more consistently, but it is wise to build extra time into any journey that involves a connection to another train, bus, or flight.

Plan to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure, particularly if you intend to buy your ticket there. Queues at ticket windows in major stations can be lengthy, so booking online in advance is a far more efficient approach.

Luggage handling differs from what passengers may encounter in other European countries. There are no strict baggage limits on most services, but it is sensible to keep bags to a manageable size, as trains have designated storage areas. At large stations such as Thessaloniki and Athens, oversized bags can be checked in at a dedicated office and retrieved upon arrival — a convenient feature for longer journeys involving bulky luggage.

While some trains feature dining cars or trolley refreshment services, it is sensible to bring your own snacks and water for longer trips, especially on regional or express trains that may have no onboard catering. The ETR high-speed service does include a bar and restaurant car.

Be aware that any journey in the Hellenic Train planner showing a train number beginning with “C” and accompanied by a bus symbol is actually operated by a coach rather than a train — rail replacement buses serve a number of routes where track repairs are still underway following storm damage sustained in 2023.

There is no formal quiet carriage policy on Greek trains (unlike, for instance, the quiet coach convention widely observed in the UK), so noise levels in second class can be unpredictable. Opting for a first-class compartment may help, though a peaceful journey is not guaranteed. It is not customary or expected to tip railway staff in Greece.

Industrial action in Greece’s public sector occurs from time to time, and while rail strikes are less frequent than in some other sectors, they do happen. Before any long-distance journey, check the Hellenic Train website and local news sources — particularly during periods of wider industrial unrest. In the event of a cancellation, the revised public service contract provides for doubled compensation in cases of serious service disruption (as of 2025).

Finally, bear in mind that station names in Greece are displayed in Greek script, and there is no single standardised system for rendering them in Roman letters. Some stations may also feature names based on older Greek orthographic conventions. Familiarising yourself with a few key station names in Greek characters is a practical step for anyone who will be using the rail network on a regular basis.

Frequently asked questions about rail travel in Greece

Is a Eurail Greece Pass worth buying as a long-term resident?

For most people living in Greece long-term, a Eurail pass is unlikely to represent good value. The Greek rail network covers a relatively compact area, and for anyone making regular journeys on the same route, multi-journey cards or advance-purchase fares will almost always prove cheaper. The Eurail pass is far better suited to tourists who plan several different long-distance trips in a short period. Visit the Hellenic Train journey cards page for options better suited to residents.

How do I get a refund if my train is cancelled or significantly delayed?

Under the revised 2025 public service contract, compensation entitlements for passengers have been strengthened, with payouts doubled in the event of serious service disruptions. For outright cancellations, Hellenic Train’s standard policy permits ticket amendments at any ticket office up to 10 minutes before departure, and refunds or exchanges may be available subject to the fare type purchased. To initiate a claim, contact Hellenic Train at +30 2130 121 121 or through the customer service section of hellenictrain.gr.

Are trains in Greece safe to travel on at night?

Travelling by train in Greece at night is generally considered safe. There are currently no domestic overnight sleeper services in operation. For late-evening intercity travel, the ETR and Intercity services offer the most dependable option. The Athens Metro runs until midnight on weekdays and until 2:30 am on weekends, and is widely regarded as safe. As with any public transport environment, it is sensible to stay alert to your belongings, especially at busy city-centre stations.

Can I take my bicycle on Greek trains?

Bicycles are permitted on certain Hellenic Train services, but the rules differ by route and train type. The new Alstom Coradia Stream trains due by 2027 will include a dedicated bicycle space in every carriage. For the current rules applicable to specific routes, check the Hellenic Train website or get in touch with their customer service team, as carriage may need to be arranged in advance or may be restricted at peak times.

Do trains in Greece run on public holidays?

Public holidays in Greece do affect train schedules — services typically operate on a reduced Sunday or holiday timetable. It is advisable to check the Hellenic Train journey planner directly before travelling on any public holiday, as the schedule may differ substantially from a normal weekday. Advance booking is particularly important around major holidays such as Easter, when passenger demand is high and trains often sell out.

How do I travel from Athens airport by rail?

Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) is connected directly to the city centre by Metro Line 3. The airport metro ticket costs €9.00 (as of 2025 — verify at oasa.gr), and the journey to central Athens (Syntagma) takes around 40 minutes. The Proastiakos suburban railway also calls at the airport, linking it to Athens Larissa Station and destinations beyond. Contactless payment is accepted at metro fare gates, or you can use an ATH.ENA Card.

What happens to my journey if there is a strike (απεργία) on the railways?

Strikes affecting Greece’s transport sector do occur, though rail-specific action tends to be less common than strikes in other public services. Under Greek legislation, a minimum level of service must be maintained on essential public services during strike action, which means some trains will continue to run. Keep an eye on local news and the Hellenic Train website, as strike announcements are typically made in advance. Building flexibility into your travel plans and reviewing the situation the evening before your journey is good practice for anyone who depends on the rail network regularly.

Is the Greek rail network connected to neighbouring countries?

International rail connections from Greece have been largely out of service in recent years. As of 2025, no regular international passenger train services are operating from Greece. However, longer-term plans exist to enhance the cross-border link through North Macedonia and Serbia, and in 2024 it was announced that upgrades would eventually create a rail corridor connecting Budapest to Athens via Belgrade, Skopje, and Thessaloniki — integrating Greece into the wider European high-speed rail network. Check the Hellenic Train website for the latest news on international services.