Getting Around Mainland Greece

Road Network, Traffic

Car, Camper Van

Having your own vehicle is an excellent way to explore this part of the country. It’s even the best option thanks to the freedom and time saved compared to public transport.

Rental

Bus

Unlike trains, buses are highly developed and widely used in Greece. The network covers the entire country, especially the mainland. You can generally get almost anywhere by bus, though it’s best not to be in too much of a hurry outside major city routes. That said, buses are an excellent mode of transport for those without a vehicle.

The company KTEL handles most public transport. It’s actually a grouping of around sixty local or regional companies that together cover over 80% of the country’s coach traffic. As for fares, they remain affordable—expect roughly 0.7 € to 0.9 € per 10 km.

Two Wheels

Motorcycle

Bicycle

Hitchhiking

Train

With just 1,500 km of tracks, all on the mainland, Greece’s rail network is quite limited. The national company, Trainose, manages the entire system. In broad terms, there’s now only one major line in the country (with a few small branches here and there), covering the route (Patras by bus)-Corinth-Athens-Thessaloniki, with the option to continue to neighboring countries (except Albania) from the latter. In short, train travel is restricted. Also worth noting are two small tourist-only lines: Diakofto-Kalavryta in the Peloponnese and Volos-Mileai in the Pelion.

Fares remain relatively affordable, with various discounts available (Greece is also part of the InterRail pass). For Athens-Thessaloniki—the only stretch really used by tourists (500 km; 5 hours)—expect to pay between 20 € and 40 € one-way, depending on the train, schedule, etc.

Domestic Flights

In Town

Taxis

Other Means

Metro:

Tram:

Urban Bus:

What to Choose for Getting Around?

Mainland Greece is vast, with many points of interest spread across different areas, so it’s best to be self-sufficient when it comes to transport. Renting a car will save time and offer freedom. Otherwise, buses are always a good option for those looking to save money and have some time to spare.

Distances Between Cities

Distances (km) between the main mainland cities in the country: