Getting around · Transport
To Thessaloniki
Greece’s second city
About To Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki, Greece’s second city, is an easy trip north from Athens. The quickest way is a nonstop flight from Athens International Airport, about 50–55 minutes in the air. Direct Intercity trains run from Athens Central Station (Larissis) in about four to five hours, passing Mount Olympus; engineering works have changed timetables in 2026, so check Hellenic Train before you travel. By car it is about 500 km on the A1 motorway, roughly five to six hours with tolls, and KTEL coaches take around six hours. Thessaloniki is also the overland gateway to Skopje and the Balkans.
Why it's on our list
- Flights of about 50–55 minutes
- Direct Intercity trains, about 4–5 hours
- About 500 km by road on the A1
Timetables, fares and services change, so please check with To Thessaloniki before you travel.