Athens to Thessaloniki Train

Traveling from Athens to Thessaloniki by train offers one of Greece’s most scenic long-distance rail experiences, weaving together the country’s ancient history, coastal beauty, and mountainous landscapes. Departing from Athens’ Larissa Station, the journey begins with views of the capital’s lively urban fabric—neoclassical buildings, modern districts, and the surrounding hills that frame the Attica basin. As the train heads north, the dense cityscape gradually gives way to open plains, olive groves, and low-lying hills that mark the transition from urban to rural Greece.
The route enters the fertile plains of Boeotia, passing fields of grain, orchards, and traditional villages tucked among rolling hills. Views of Mount Parnassus and the surrounding limestone ranges appear in the distance, adding a dramatic backdrop to the early segment of the journey. Continuing northward, the train approaches the historic pass of Thermopylae—a landscape steeped in classical legend—before following the coastline of the Malian Gulf. This section offers beautiful glimpses of shimmering water, coastal wetlands, and mountains rising sharply from the shoreline, creating a striking contrast between sea and peaks.
As the journey progresses into central Greece, the train moves through the wide Thessalian Plain, one of the country’s most important agricultural regions. Here, endless expanses of farmland stretch toward the horizon, interspersed with charming rural settlements and framed by the imposing silhouettes of Mount Olympus and Mount Ossa. Depending on the timetable, the train may stop at major hubs such as Larisa or Paleofarsalos, both key junctions connecting northern and southern Greece.
North of Larisa, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic as the route enters the Vale of Tempi—a narrow gorge carved by the Pineios River between Mount Olympus and Mount Ossa. This iconic passage is one of the most scenic stretches on the Greek railway network, where steep cliffs, dense vegetation, and river views create an immersive natural corridor. Emerging from the gorge, the landscape opens once again into the broad Macedonian plains, dotted with vineyards, sunflower fields, and the occasional Byzantine church or hillside village.

Approaching Thessaloniki, the environment shifts to suburban districts and industrial zones, gradually giving way to views of the Thermaic Gulf and the city’s historic skyline. Soon, the train arrives at Thessaloniki Railway Station, conveniently located for exploring the city’s UNESCO-listed early Christian architecture, waterfront promenade, and lively café culture. Most Athens–Thessaloniki journeys are served by modern Hellenic Train InterCity (IC) and high-speed (ICE) services. Travel times typically range from 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on the service type. Onboard amenities usually include comfortable seating, air-conditioning, power outlets, restrooms, luggage storage, and on some services, Wi-Fi and a snack or café bar.
Whether you’re traveling for culture, history, coastal scenery, or a smooth connection between Greece’s two largest cities, the Athens–Thessaloniki train route offers a rewarding and memorable journey through the heart of the country.