All About Athens Train Station

If you’re arriving in Athens by train, you’ll step off at Athens Railway Station, commonly known as Larissis Station. This is Greece’s largest railway hub, handling all domestic train routes, including the Thessaloniki to Athens train. While not as modern as train stations in Paris, Milan, or Berlin, it’s functional, and with the right tips, navigating it is easy.

How to Get from Larissis Station to Central Athens

Larissis Station is about 2.5 km from Syntagma Square, meaning you’re just a 10-15 minute ride from the heart of Athens. Here’s how to get there:

• Metro Line 2 (Red Line) runs directly from Larissis Station to Syntagma, Acropolis, and Omonia, making it the easiest and cheapest option. Trains run every 3-5 minutes from 5:30 AM to midnight, with extended hours on weekends.

• Taxis are available outside the station, but expect higher fares at night. A ride to Monastiraki or Plaka costs around €8-€12, but it’s best to ask for an estimate before getting in.

• If you prefer a stress-free ride, private transfer services like Welcome Pickups offer pre-booked cars with English-speaking drivers who wait for you on the platform.

Facilities & Safety Tips at Larissis Station

Larissis Station is a no-frills train hub, so knowing what to expect helps. Facilities are limited, with just a few shops, basic seating, and no luggage storage. If you need food, there’s a small kiosk, but better dining options can be found a short walk away.

If you’re arriving late at night, it’s best to have a metro plan or taxi booked in advance, as the area around the station isn’t ideal for wandering. While the station itself is safe, watch your bags, especially in crowded areas or near metro escalators, as pickpocketing can be an issue.

What’s Near Larissis Station? Quick Eats & Things to Do

If you have time before your train, a short walk from Larissis Station will lead you to some great spots for a quick meal or a bit of sightseeing.

For food, Stani is a must-visit if you’re in the mood for traditional Greek yogurt and loukoumades (honey-soaked doughnuts). If you prefer something savory, Lefteris Oik is known for its legendary souvlaki, a favorite among locals. For a sit-down meal with classic Greek flavors, Rozalia offers a cozy atmosphere and a solid menu of traditional dishes.

If you’d rather explore, the National Archaeological Museum is just a 10-minute walk from the station. It houses some of Greece’s most important ancient artifacts, making it a great place to soak up history before heading to the Acropolis.

Athens Railway Station or Larissa Station? Clearing Up the Confusion

Athens’ main train station is officially Athens Railway Station, but most people still call it Larissa Station, a name that dates back to when two separate stations existed:

✅ Larissa Station served trains to Northern & Central Greece, including Thessaloniki.
✅ Peloponnese Station handled routes to the Peloponnese Peninsula.

After the merger, Athens Railway Station became Greece’s biggest train hub, but the name Larissa stuck. Even the metro stop is called Stathmos Larissis.

Therefore, when you arrive in Athens by train, don’t be confused: Athens Railway Station = Larissis Station.