The Realities of Greek Train Travel

Train travel in Greece isn’t like hopping on a TGV in France or an ICE train in Germany, it’s a different experience altogether. While Greek trains are modern, they’re not high-speed, and delays are common. If you’re considering taking the train in Greece, here’s an honest review of what to expect, plus a few pro tips to make your journey smoother.

Comfort & Facilities on Greek Trains

Greek trains are comfortable but basic. If you’re expecting the luxury of Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa or the speed of Eurostar, you might be disappointed. But if you go in with the right expectations, train travel in Greece can be a relaxed and scenic experience.

• Seating. The second class is functional with reclining seats, while the first class offers slightly more space and a quieter environment. Pack a travel pillow to be more comfortable.

• WiFi. Rare on Greek trains, so download entertainment in advance.

• Outlets. Some Intercity trains have power sockets, but don’t rely on them and bring a fully charged power bank.

• Food & Drinks. A small café cart is available on Intercity trains, but options are limited. Pack snacks and water if you want something better than a packaged sandwich.

• Toilets. Available but can be hit or miss in cleanliness. Bring hand sanitizer and tissues just in case.

👉 First class isn’t a huge upgrade, but if you want a quieter ride with more legroom, it might be worth the extra cost.

Delays & Cancellations: How Late Are Greek Trains?

Greek trains aren’t famous for their punctuality. Unlike Germany’s ICE or Switzerland’s precise train schedules, Greek trains often run late, especially on the Thessaloniki to Athens route.

Typical Delays

• Thessaloniki to Athens Intercity train is usually 20–40 minutes late.

• Local train delays vary, but 10–30 minutes is common.

• Cancellations are less frequent, but when they happen, alternatives can be limited.

What to Do If Your Train Is Delayed

• If you have a tight connection in Athens (ferry, flight, or bus), give yourself a buffer of at least 2–3 hours.

• Check real-time updates on Hellenic Train’s website or at the station.

• Consider an alternative route if you’re on a strict schedule—buses between Thessaloniki and Athens are often more reliable.

👉 Greek trains might be late, but ferries won’t wait. If you’re catching a ferry from Piraeus to the islands, plan for extra time.

Luggage Storage on Greek Trains

Unlike European high-speed trains with spacious luggage compartments, Greek trains have limited storage space, so it’s best to plan accordingly. Overhead racks are designed for small carry-ons, making them unsuitable for larger suitcases. If you’re traveling with a bigger bag, you’ll need to use the designated luggage areas, but these can fill up quickly, especially on busy routes. When storage runs out, you might have to keep your suitcase near your seat or at the carriage entrance, which can be inconvenient, especially if the train is crowded. To avoid hassle, arrive early to secure a good spot, or consider packing light for easier handling.

Pro Tips for Managing Luggage on Greek Trains

• Travel light. If possible, bring a cabin-size suitcase instead of a large one.

• Sit near the luggage rack if you have a big suitcase. This makes it easier to keep an eye on it.

• Avoid the first and last carriages. They fill up the fastest with people and luggage.

Border Crossings (for International Train Travelers)

If you’re coming from Italy, France, Germany, or Eastern Europe, you’ll need to cross multiple borders before reaching Greece. Here’s what to expect:

Italy to Greece (Train + Ferry)

Traveling from Italy to Greece by train and ferry is a scenic and practical option. The best route is to take a train to Bari, Brindisi, or Ancona, then board a ferry to Patras, and finally hop on a train to Athens. This combination allows for a comfortable journey, but keep in mind that passport checks are conducted on the ferry, so have your documents ready.

Balkans to Greece (Train + Bus Hybrid Routes)

If you’re coming from the Balkans, train connections into Greece are limited, making a train + bus combination the best option. You can take a train to Sofia, Skopje, or Belgrade, then continue by bus into Greece. Expect passport checks at border crossings for both trains and buses, so keep your documents accessible for inspection.

👉 If you’re arriving in Greece via Italy or the Balkans, ferry and bus connections are faster than taking a train all the way.

Thessaloniki to Athens (Domestic Travel)

For domestic train travel between Thessaloniki and Athens, no passport checks are required. However, train conductors will check tickets, so make sure to have yours on hand. This is the most straightforward and direct rail route within Greece, making it the best option for travelers heading to the capital from the north.