greece train tours

All aboard: Greece’s scenic train journeys

Apr 12, 2019 • 5 min read

The heritage tourist train crossing a bridge in the mountains of Pelion © fritz16 / Shutterstock

When it comes to train travel, Greece rarely springs to mind. The country’s relatively limited rail network means it doesn’t appear on any ‘epic train journeys’ lists, and because of this a number of its amazing – if short – stretches of railway remain unknown to the wider train-loving community of travellers.

With only a few international connections and just one main line running from Athens to Greece’s northern border, the Greek Railways have suffered underinvestment and neglect for decades. However, things have been changing recently, as the country comes to recognise the train as an environmentally friendly, efficient and exciting means of travel. The electrification of the main line, the construction of double track all along and the upgrade of the rolling stock have made journeys faster as well as more reliable and comfortable. For the true train aficionado, however, there are still a few short routes off the country’s main network where speed and efficiency remain less important than the sheer pleasure of the journey.

The Pelion line

The Pelion trenaki (little train) was constructed by Giorgio de Chirico’s father, who was an important engineer at the turn of the 19th-century. It connected Volos (where the artist was born in 1888) with Milies, a picturesque village on Pelion mountain , which was the mythical habitat of the  kentavri (centaurs).

The train was brought back to life as a tourist attraction in the 1990s, though the steam engine that pulled the four carriages uphill was replaced by a diesel engine in 2010. These days the service only operates on the 15km section between Ano Lehonia and Milies, but the magic of the journey remains intact. The 60cm-gauge line is one of the narrowest in the world and the train’s speed of just 20km/h allows for a leisurely and absorbing expedition in the heart of one of Greece’s most beautiful mountains. Unspoiled nature with thick plane, oak and pine forests, stone and steel bridges from another era and stunning views of the Pagasitikos Gulf make the 90-minute journey an absolute delight for train and nature lovers.

The train runs every Saturday and Sunday year-round and daily during August (departing Ano Lehonia at 10am, returning from Milies at 3pm); there are extra services during public holidays and busy periods. Return tickets cost 18/12 euros for adults/children.

Diakofto–Kalavryta

A technological marvel at the time of its inauguration in 1896, the rack railway – or Odontotos, as it’s widely known – connects the small seaside town of Diakofto in the northern Peloponnese, with Kalavryta , a mountain village with rich history that is one of the most popular ski resorts in Greece.

The small modern train climbs from sea level to a height of 750m through Vouraikos Gorge. The ascent is so steep at some points that it must be assisted by the rack and pinions of the engine and the track, one of the few railways in the world to feature this system. The 22km journey through stunning nature, leafy forests, waterfalls and tunnels takes an hour and 10 minutes. Drop-off stops are possible on demand at a few spots along the route. Weather permitting, many passengers opt to walk down to Diakofto along the track – an invigorating hike that takes four to five hours.

The service runs three times daily during weekdays and five times on weekends and public holidays. Return tickets cost 19/9.60 euros for adults/children.

Olympia–Pyrgos–Katakolo

Sadly, apart from Odontotos, the only remaining operational section of the stunning Peloponnesian rail network is the line connecting the charming little port of Katakolo in the western Peloponnese with Ancient Olympia via Pyrgos town. Dating back to 1882, the line was the first to be built outside of Athens, intended to boost the commercial activity and exports of local products (mainly raisins).

These days, it’s arguably the prettiest route to one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites and the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Sacred ruins scattered under prolific greenery and an atmosphere steeped in history and myth make for a not-to-be-missed, inspiring expedition. Thankfully, tourism has given the line new life and popularity, and after decades of neglect the local authorities and the Greek Railways now have plans to improve the track and upgrade the services.

There’s one return trip between Katakolo and Olympia every morning and three between Pyrgos and Olympia, except for Sundays and public holidays. However, there are extra services when cruise ships moor at Katakolo for the passengers who wish to visit the ancient site for the day. Return tickets for the entire 45-minute journey cost 10 euros.

Stavroupoli–Toxotes

Unlike all of the previous routes, this short but absolutely gorgeous stretch of railway is part of the country’s main network on the line connecting Thessaloniki with Alexandroupoli , but also a worthwhile destination in its own right.

Between the villages of Stavroupoli and Toxotes the rails part with the motorway and follow their own majestic route through the mountains and the straits of the Nestos river. The whole area is a national park protected by international environmental conventions and a valuable wetland ecosystem, home to eagles, waterfowl, otters, wild horses and other rare fauna. Unfortunately, the crossing of the straits along the meandering stream and through old stone tunnels takes only a few breathless minutes, but the drivers of local trains are happy to stop on demand and drop you off at the lovely little station of the abandoned Livera village, right in the heart of the green valley.

Accommodation, trekking, horse riding and kayaking can be arranged at the village of Toxotes, and the delightful old town of Xanthi with its atmospheric alleys and Ottoman feel is only a few minutes away on the same train.

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Discover the wonders of Ancient Greece with this inspiring itinerary. Make your way through lush green olive groves and enjoy the great natural beauty that Greece has to offer. Train travel in Greece can be challenging at times, but the magnificent scenery makes it worth your while. Travel Greece with InterCitys and regional trains run by Greek Railways OSE. For this Greece travel itinerary, we recommend a Eurail Greece Pass . Or make this trip part of a larger European adventure and travel with a Eurail Global Pass . With Eurail, your trip can be whatever you want it to be!

Itinerary in short

Cities visited on this trip:.

Click here or on the map to view this route in our Trip Planner 

Patras, Greece

The city of Patras is known as Greece’s Gate to the West and is the perfect place to start your rail adventure. With a history spanning four millennia, Patras is rich in monuments from Ancient Greek, Roman, and Byzantine times. Most notable are Patras Castle towering over the city, and the ancient Roman Odeon which now hosts concerts in summer. More recently built highlights include the Saint Andrew of Patras Basilica , located on the city’s seafront. While overlooking the Gulf of Patras, look to your right to see the 1.8 mile (3 kilometers) long Rio-Antirrio bridge that connects the Peloponnese peninsula with the Greek mainland.

From Patras to Corinth

Travel time:

Sidirodromikos Stathmos Patras

Kíaton, Greece

Sidirodromikos Stathmos Kiatou

Corinth, Greece

Sidirodromikos Stathmos Korinthou

Take a train to the city of Corinth, at the very edge of the Peloponnessus region. The narrow Corinth Canal cuts through the land here, creating a gateway to nearby Athens. Before traveling on to Greece's capital, make sure to visit the Acrocorinth citadel. It overlooks the ruins of Ancient Corinth and is one of the most impressive sights in all of Greece. From Corinth, you can take a day trip to the city of Argos. An overwhelming number of historical monuments await you in the ancient town, and the rare collection in the Archeaological Museum is definitely worth a visit. Close to Argos you’ll find the ruins of Mycenae , a city shrouded in Greek mythology and the staging area for the legendary war on Troy.

From Corinth to Athens

Athens, greece.

Sidirodromikós Stathmós Athinón

Athens is known as the cradle of Western civilization. It’s a lively and mesmerizing city, with remnants of a glorious past around every corner. Standing high and mighty in the center of the city is the Parthenon temple , built on top of the Athenian Acropolis in 447 BC. Take a full day to explore the temple and the Acropolis museum on the southeastern slope. Other important monuments for your Athens itinerary include the well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus and the ruins of the colossal Temple of Olympian Zeus . Walk across the Kerameikos to see ancient graves and sculptures, then watch the sunset over Athens from Areopagus hill.

From Athens to Kalambaka

Kalambaka, greece.

Kalambaka Railway Station

Travel from Athens to Kalambaka and swap the big city for a peaceful mountain area. Here you’ll find the immensely impressive Meteora : six monasteries, built centuries ago on top of sandstone rock pillars. Climb the staircases to any one of these monasteries for an amazing view of the area.

From Kalambaka to Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, greece.

Neos Sidirodromikos Stathmos Thessalonikis

Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece, and considered to be its cultural capital. Two of the city’s most important sights are the enormous Church of Saint Demetrius and the White Tower , a former Ottoman prison turned into a museum. Go to the Museum of Byzantine Culture to learn about the Byzantine Empire, and afterwards relax on Thessaloniki’s pleasant seafront. For a special addition to your Greece itinerary, take a daytrip to Mount Olympus - the mythical home of the Olympian gods.

Experience all of Greece with the Eurail Greece Pass!

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How To Book A Train Ticket In Greece In 2024

Visitors are sometimes puzzled when booking a train ticket in Greece. Here is how to book a train ticket on the Hellenic Train website, and a few tips that will get you the best price possible.

Trains in Greece

The train network in Greece connects several cities. Some of the most important ones are Athens, Thessaloniki , Kalambaka near the Meteora monasteries , Corinth, Larissa, Volos and Trikala.

The train is a great way to travel around Greece. It is efficient, convenient and punctual. Don’t let its outside appearance put you off – the trains are clean and comfortable, and have everything you need.  

There are three ways to book your train ticket in Greece: on your laptop, through the HELLENIC TRAIN mobile phone app, and in person. Let’s check each of them in detail.

By the way, if, like many visitors, you are looking to visit Meteora, you can book an organized tour from Athens to Meteora . Your tour provider will arrange all transportation for you, not only from Athens to Kalambaka, but also around the majestic monasteries.

Another option is to hire a car and drive in Greece ! Check out this great platform, DiscoverCars , where you can easily book a vehicle for the duration of your stay. 

Note: As of January 2024, the train service in certain areas of Greece, for example Kalambaka – Meteora, is partially replaced by buses. Check out the official website for more information.

Book your Greek train ticket online

If you’ve been to Greece before, you may remember that the train company used to be called TRAINOSE . In summer 2022, the name was changed to HELLENIC TRAIN.

You can easily book your Hellenic Train tickets online. It will only take you a few minutes to book your ticket.

Go to the official HELLENIC TRAIN website , and you will immediately see the booking options. You will need to select your departure and arrival stations, whether you want a one-way or a return ticket, and your travel dates.  

At the next step, you will be able to see all available itineraries for your chosen dates. You will need to select which one you want, for each leg of your trip.

Depending on your itinerary, you may see two types of services: ICE and IC. The services marked as ICE are slightly faster, as they only stop at Larissa and Thessaloniki. They are more expensive than those marked as IC, but they are a lot more modern, and, in my experience, can be less busy. Here’s a guide on using the train from Athens to Thessaloniki . 

After you’ve chosen your preferred service, you will need to select your class and seats. Class A offers a little more legroom, but is more expensive. Most people will be happy with Class B, which looks like this on the IC services.  

Note that the default option that comes up is Class A – so if you prefer to travel in Class B, make sure you select the right wagon.

Once you’ve selected your seat(s), you will be asked to fill in the names of passenger(s) and will proceed to payment. You can pay by debit / credit card or PayPal.

Your tickets will be emailed to you in a PDF document. You can either print them out, or save them on your phone / tablet / other electronic device.

Note that various discounts are available – more on that later on. 

Book your train ticket in Greece on your mobile

I usually book my Greece railways tickets on the HELLENIC TRAIN app. You can download it for both Android (Google Play) and iOS (App Store). There used to be an extra discount for people booking their tickets on the app, but not anymore 🙁

Once you have downloaded the app, you will need to choose a PIN and password. Make sure you take a note of them as they won’t autosave.

You can then check the timetables and buy your ticket through the “issue ticket” menu. Select the departure and arrival stations, choose the time when you want to travel and select your class and seats. You can then proceed to payment.

The tickets will be instantly available on the app, and will also be emailed to you as a PDF document.

If you are using the HELLENIC TRAIN app, here is what you need to pay attention to

Note that the app doesn’t work when there is no internet coverage or if you have no data. Also, make sure you have the PIN or password handy before you travel, as you won’t be able to retrieve your tickets otherwise.

To be on the safe side, you can always print your tickets from the PDF document and show them to the ticket inspector. Make sure the QR code has been printed properly. Or you can just save the PDF document on any electronic device.

Related article: How to buy a SIM card in Greece

Book your train ticket in person at the train station

If you are a spontaneous traveller, you can always book your ticket directly at the train station. Just make sure you allow for enough time before the train departs, as there may be queues.

You will receive a paper ticket, that you can show to the inspector on the train. If you buy a return ticket, make sure you hold on to the ticket for the second leg of your trip, as you won’t be able to reissue it if it’s lost.

Note that Friday and Sunday evenings are popular times to travel, so don’t expect to find a last-minute seat. Generally speaking, it’s best to buy your Hellenic Train tickets in advance.

Ticket prices and discounts on the trains in Greece

While many travellers will pay a full price ticket, there are several ways to get discounts for the trains in Greece.

Children, students, young people under 24 years old and people over 65 years old are entitled to various discounts. Children under 4 years old travel for free.

Disabled travellers are also entitled to a discount. You can travel on the train as a wheelchair user, but you will need to inform the train company in advance.

If you book a return trip on any IC services you get a 20% discount, and if you book early you get an additional discount. The policy for ICE services tends to change now and then, so check before you travel.

You can have a look at all available discounts and offers here .

FAQs about trains in Greece

Visitors who want to travel by train in Greece often ask the following questions:

How do I book train tickets in Greece?

You can book train tickets either online, or in person at the train station.

How do I buy train tickets in Greece online?

You can buy train tickets in Greece online either through the official HELLENIC TRAIN website, or through the HELLENIC TRAIN app, available for Android and iOS.

How do I book train tickets from my mobile?

You will need to download the HELLENIC TRAIN app, make an account, choose the dates and times you want to travel, and issue your tickets. Make sure that you remember your password and PIN, as you will need them to retrieve your tickets.

What documents are required for train reservation?

No documents are required. If you are booking your ticket online, you will need to type in your name and surname. It is possible to pay by debit / credit card or PayPal.

How do I get a train ticket from Athens to Meteora?

There is only one direct train per day from Athens to a town called Kalambaka, near the Meteora Monasteries. There are more routes, but you’d have have to connect at a town called Paleofarsalos. You can get your train ticket from Athens to Meteora either online, or in person.  

What are the trains in Greece called?

As of summer 2022, the company running the trains in Greece was rebranded and is now called HELLENIC TRAIN. If you’ve been to Greece before, you may remember the old name, TRAINOSE.

Taking the train in Greece

So there you go, now you are an expert in booking your train tickets in Greece!! Here are a few more informative guides:

• How to take the Athens airport metro
• How to take the Athens airport bus
• Strikes in Greece
• How to use the Athens metro in the city
• Useful words in Greek

26 thoughts on “How To Book A Train Ticket In Greece In 2024”

How far in advance can I book a train ticket on TrainOSE?

I’m trying to book tickets from Athens to Kalambaka for the 16th May 2022, and as of the 26th of April there still aren’t any tickets available on the website yet.

Do tickets usually become available only 2 weeks in advance? Thank you

Hi! Yes, try again in a few days and you should be fine! Enjoy your time – Have a look at this article about Meteora !

There still aren’t any tickets from Athens to Kalambaka on 16th May; and thats 9 days away.

I am searching correctly?

Yes, at the moment the system only shows up to a week ahead for some reason… It happens sometimes! So you can try again in a couple of days!

thanks for the reassurance! was getting worried that I was making a mistake in my search!

Hello, I tried to book tickets from Athens to Kalambaka through the TrainOSE app but the price is the same as in the website. The app 10% discount is no longer valid? Thank you!

I get the discount on my app, I think you have to register a new account to get it. Btw, there was a website issue in the past few days, so I hope you’ve made it!

Hi . Can You Please Tell Me How Can i Sign Up In Trainose Because There Is No Sign Up Option In Website Or The App . I Was Wondering If I Can Buy Train Ticket Without The Sign Up.

Yes you can buy the tickets without the signup. If you sign up and get them through the app, you get a 10% discount.

Thank You Very Much. And There’s Another Thing How Can i Use The Ticket. Should I Print It Or Keep It In My Phone. Do They Verify The Ticket Before Boarding The Train At The Station Or In The Train. My Question Is Should I Go Direct To The Station Master And Show The Ticket Or Should I Board The Train And When Someone Come Asking For Ticket Then I Can show it In The Train..? Waiting For Your Answer.

I keep it on my phone and use the app. However, if you have no data, it will not show up… so it’s best to either print it or download a pdf version on your phone. Depending on the station you are departing from, you might need to show it before you board the train (this is what happens in Athens), or while on the train.

Okay Thank You Very Much You’re Very Helpful. One Last Question. Can You Please Tell Me İs There Any Daily Train From Soufli To port of alexandroupoli And port of alexandroupoli To Thessaloniki. Can You Please Tell me Timing. On Google And On Trainose Timing Are Different.

As far as I know, some of these rail services have been replaced by buses. Trainose.gr is always your best source, as this is also where you can get the tickets… However, for those itineraries, you can always get your ticket last minute at the station. Hope this helps!

How to sign up?

Thank You For Your Help . Is There A Train That Goes To Thessaloniki From Alexandroupolis. Or Not . I’ve Been Trying On The App And The Website But I Found Nothing?

I believe this service has been discontinued. You can take a KTEL bus instead though!

I have gone to the Trainose website and I clearly see “member registration.” Everytime I click on it I get sent to the purchasing site and they want me to login. And, of course, that doesn’t work because I am not registered. Any idea what I’m missing? Thank you.

Sorry you are having this experience. I know they were updating the website with new train timetables, so I’m hoping it’s working again. However, as far as I know, you don’t need to be registered to buy a ticket. Hope this works out for you!

Hi. Does euro rail passes work in evros Greece. Like Alexandroupolis to Thessaloniki train.

Hi. Again And Can You Tell Me How Does This Euro Rail Passes Work İf I Buy Online. Do I Have To Show It On The Train And Sit On Any Seat I Like Or İs There Another Way. Thanks?

Hi. You should be able to find all the info you need on the Euro Rail website, as this does not depend on the Greek trains. The Eurail website gives you an option to reserve your seat, so once you have your Eurail pass you should be able to? In any case, this route shouldn’t be too busy so you could ask at the Alexandroupolis station on the day before you travel.

I’m wanting to travel from Athens to Korinthos. If I buy a return ticket, can I use it on any convenient train, or am I restricted to the train time I specified when I booked?

You cannot pre-book a seat in those trains, so you can use your return portion for whichever service you want. As always, it’s best to confirm that at the time you buy your tickets.

I’m trying to purchase 2 tickets Athens – Kalambaka for July but there are no tickets available in the website yet. Is this normal? Is it too soon? How far in advance can tickets be purchased? Thank you!

Hi! Train tickets for July will go on sale much later in the month – at the moment, you can only find tickets for June – and yes, this is normal! Please keep checking every now and then. 

Thank you!! I feel better now!

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3 Days Tour from Athens to Meteora by Train

Book Early, Save More!

Apply code earlybird24 at checkout.

Explore Meteora's wonders stress-free - book your trip by train from Athens now!

Embark on a captivating 3-day train tour from Athens to Meteora, where you’ll discover the beauty and history of this remarkable geological phenomenon and the Byzantine Monasteries, designated as UNESCO World Heritage Monuments.

Relax and unwind as we take care of all transportation arrangements, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Enjoy accommodation at the finest 3 or 4-star hotels in Meteora, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding natural wonders.

Participate in top-tier tours and activities, uncovering the hidden treasures of this exceptional destination. From exploring the renowned monasteries to traversing picturesque hiking trails, you’ll witness the essence of Meteora on this unforgettable journey.

With seamless train transportation and knowledgeable local guides, our Meteora from Athens by train tour ensures a hassle-free exploration of this incredible site. Seize the opportunity for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure! Reserve your spot today and let us handle the rest.

FREE AUDIO GUIDE. Use our free audio guide inside the monasteries and 19 points of interest! Available in English, French, Spanish and German.

Price p.p from 270€ now:

Adult: 350€ Couple / 2 Adults: 540€ Groups over 3: 270€ Children: 200€ Infant: 0€

Book now and save 10% *Apply code EarlyBird24 at checkout

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Important information.

Recent flooding in Greece has temporarily disrupted train services. Replacement buses are in place to ensure uninterrupted travel until train services are restored. The itineraries and destinations of this tour remain unaffected.

Key Details

• Transport:  In light of the situation, we have arranged for a modern, air-conditioned bus to transport you from Athens to Meteora.
• Journey Details: The trip will take 5 hours each way, inclusive of a 20-minute stop for refreshments and restroom use.
• Bus Identification: Please look out for buses with the logo Visit Meteora at the front door.
• Departure:  The bus will depart from Larissis train station in Athens at 08:00 am. We request you to be present at the exit of the Larissa metro/subway station on Deligianni str, directly opposite the Athens train station, by 07:45 am. Here is the exact location for your reference: https://goo.gl/maps/16AcMUsyJNSoFF698
• Return:  The bus will be back in Athens at 11:00 pm.

Tour Highlights

• Admire the world famous Meteora
• Excellent views between Athens and Meteora
• Accommodation at top-rated hotels
• Join the Meteora Sunset Tour
• Choose between Meteora Hiking Tour and Meteora Half-day Tour as the second day's tour
• See all monasteries
• Starting Time: 8:00am
• Duration: 3 days
• Max People: 16
• Availability: Daily Departures
• Dresscode applied

Why to book the 3 Days Rail Tour from Athens to Meteora with us

• Small size groups
• By booking a train tour through Visit Meteora you are free to travel at your own pace
• Save time and effort! Organizing your own holiday can be a stressful task. Let us do the work for you!

ATTRACTIONS

Just a few of the beautiful sights you’ll see during your tour

Meteora Monasteries

Virgin Mary Byzantine church

Badova Hermitages

Doupiani Old Chapel

Kastraki Old habitation

What is included.

• Free audio guide inside the monasteries and points of interest
• 2 nights accommodation at a 3-star or 4-star hotel with breakfast
• Round trip train tickets from/to Athens
• First class train tickets upon request
• Pick-up and drop off from Kalampaka train station to your hotel
• Free wifi on board
• Free Map and Bottle of water provided on the tours
• Choose between the Meteora Hiking Tour and the Meteora Half-day Tour for the second day's tour

Not inclusions

• Accommodation Tax
• Entrance fees to the monasteries, 3 euro per person, per monastery
• Gratuities (optional)
• Personal travel insurance

Optional Extras

• Transfer to/from the Athens railway station (Book it on request)

Book with confidence

• 100% refund if you cancel your reservation up to 48 hours prior to the start time of the tour
• Rearrange your dates once with no change fee
• Local expertise and 24/7 help and assistance during your trip.

Let our delighted customers do the talking – we prefer to let their reviews speak for themselves.

Depart promptly at 8:00 am from Athens' Larissis train station.

You'll be transported through the picturesque Greek countryside.

Arriving at your destination, Kalambaka, at approximately 12:45 pm. Check-in at your hotel.

Accompanied by our knowledgeable local guide, you'll be whisked away in a VIP minibus to witness the best viewpoints that showcase the majestic rock formations of Meteora. 

Choose between the Meteora Hiking Tour and the Meteora Half-day Tour for the second day's tour.

You'll have a half-day free to explore on your own or to join one of our optional tours before heading back to Athens.

You'll be transported back to Kalambaka train station in time to catch the 6.00 pm bus back to Athens.

The bus will be back in Athens at 11:00 pm.

*For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

ACCOMMODATION

COMFORT PLUS

Standard rooms in good quality and comfortable three-star hotels. Accommodation options in this category are top boutique hotels or guesthouses, typically with a restaurant or bar on-site. Rooms with private facilities and breakfast included.

Standard rooms in four-star hotels or in Superior rooms in premium three-star boutique hotels. Accommodation options in this category are premium hotels, with a restaurant and bar on-site. Rooms with private facilities and breakfast included.

GET INSPIRED

The package includes the following tours.

Meteora Sunset Tour 5 of 5 bubbles 510 reviews

Day 2 options.

Meteora Half-day Sightseeing Tour 5 of 5 bubbles 213 reviews

Meteora Hiking Tour 5 of 5 bubbles 393 reviews

Cancellation policy.

• 100% refund if you cancel your reservation up to 48 hours prior to the start time of the tour​
• Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Tour

Will i meet anyone at the train station in athens or thessaloniki.

No. On our train tours, you will board the train from Athens or Thessaloniki on your own, using the tickets we will send you via email. Our guide will meet you at Kalabaka train station after your train arrives at Meteora. He will be holding a signboard with your name written on it in the parking lot of Kalabaka train station.

When and how will I receive my train tickets?

We will send you the train tickets via email approximately one month before your trip date.

Why should I print the train tickets?

There is an off-chance that a train inspector might give you a hard time if you present them with an electronic version of your tickets. This is why we recommend you to print them.

What time should I be at the station?

Please be at the station at least 30 minutes before the departure in order to have plenty of time to find your coach and seats. The stewards there will assist you.

Is there food provided on the train?

Yes, there is a cafeteria-coach inside every train, where you can buy snacks and refreshments.

Is it worth it booking a first class seat?

Yes, first class seats are more comfortable and quieter. They are almost always arranged in a 6-seat-rooms, offering a higher amount of privacy and the first class coach is located next to the cafeteria, offering fast access there.

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Visit the historical center of Athens with Athens Happy Train

Sightseeing Athens with Athens Happy Train. If you want to enjoy an amazing sightseeing tour in the historical center of Athens and the capital's most famous ancient sights and monuments, your first choice is… Athens Happy Train.

The Athens Happy Train is a toy-like street train that starts its sightseeing tour from the Constitution Square (also known as "Syntagma")  and follows an amazing route through the historical center of the city, the old neighborhoods and the hill of Acropolis.

The tour has a 40-minute duration and takes in Athens's most famous sights and monuments including the Hellenic Parliament, the Museum of Cycladic Art, the War Museum, the Panathenaic Stadium, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Lantern of Diogenes, etc.

Enjoy the fantastic views from the open-style train carriages

Hop-on hop-off as you please and see Athens as you please, at your own pace, safely and with comfort. You can hop-off the Athens Happy Train in the Constitution Square, in order to explore the streets of the oldest neighborhood of Athens. You can also hop-off near the New Acropolis Museum to visit the Hill of Acropolis, the Parthenon or the Museum. If you like to spend your time there, you can use the same ticket and hop-on any of the next trains for the next 10 hours.

Athens Sightseeing Tour with Athens Happy Train, operates all year round. Our trains start their tours at 9.00 a.m. until 10.30 p.m. (the last tour departs at 10:00p.m.), with transit frequency every 30 - 40 minutes, operating every single day of the week. Athens Happy Train tours, are hosted by guides along with a multi-lingual commentary in English and Greek.

History Synopsis

Athens Day Trip

Even though the duration of the tour is about 40 minutes, you can easily transform it into a ‘’day trip’’ in Athens, just by hopping off at the stops you like, explore the monuments of Athens and its Ancient culture, or simply take a break to eat or drink. You can hop on in one of the next trains passing by each stop. All you have to do is ask our driver!

Are you a group of ten persons or more?

Complete the form now to make a reservation..

To avoid standby because our Happy Train can be full and you may have to wait for the next round, you can complete the reservation form and stay on track of your schedule.

Where to catch the Happy Train

You can join our train for an amazing tour with the Athens Happy Train in the historical center of Athens, at:

• Ermou Street, in Constitution Square (Syntagma  Square )

The Athens Happy Trains start from 1 Ermou Street every 30 - 40 minutes.

Virtual Tour

Site 1: the hellenic parliament and the constitution square, site 2: the monument of unknown soldier, site 3: the benaki museum, site 4: the museum of cycladic art, groups: 4€ / person.

Reservation

5€ for adults

*No reservation needed for less than 10 persons

3€ for children

*No reservation needed for less than 10 persons. Free for kids under 3 years old.

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

‘Slow travel’ is surging — but there’s a secret to it

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Holidays can often feel rushed, dashing to cram in as much as possible while wanting to feel adequately rested during that crucial time away.

In fact, it takes the average person three days to switch off , and the average trip length is just eight days. So, how does that match up? And is it possible to accommodate all our rest and relaxation needs?

Enter the ‘slowcation’ (AKA, ‘ slow travel ’), a trend encouraging tourists to take a slower, more meaningful approach to travel and incorporate more time to unwind and de-stress.

According to new research, 81% of Brits are using travel this summer to slow down and de-stress more than anything else. But in the same vein, 57% don’t think they could go away without their phone , while 50% couldn’t hack 24 hours without checking their social media.

That’s where ‘slow travel’ comes in, embracing switching off and detaching from everyday life, with Google searches for ‘slow travel trips’ having increased by 61% in the last three months alone. Likewise, the trend has been tagged almost 20,000 times on TikTok.

But ‘slow travel’ isn’t just about slowing your itinerary down – there’s a secret to mastering it.

What is a ‘slowcation’ or ‘slow travel’?

A ‘slowcation’ or ‘slow travel’ isn’t just about slowing down the journey: it also necessitates taking a different mindset.

‘Slow travel is more about a mindset as opposed to a pace of movement, it’s exploring somewhere on a deeper level, making space mentally and physically for things to happen spontaneously. For example, taking time to walk in nature, cycle through countryside, engage with the locals or taking a long-distance rail journey,’ Simon Lynch, Global Product Director at Scott Dunn Travel , explains.

What does ‘slow travel’ look like in 2024?

Train travel.

Not only is taking the train eco-friendly: it’s also the most obvious way to slow down a trip and embrace the ‘slow travel’ vibe.

‘Leisurely train travel is one of the best ways to experience ‘slow travel,’ allowing you to sit back and savour every moment with each stop of the route,’ Simon advises, noting that the company has seen triple the amount of bookings for train journeys between January and April this year compared to the same period in 2023.

‘A new wave of luxury rail itineraries has driven a thirst for cultural immersion, exploring the less-visited backroads of popular destinations.’

Likewise, the new figures reveal some of the most popular train journeys right now, which include the Belmond Andean Explorer in Peru, the first luxury sleeper train to travel across South America, alongside the Eastern and Oriental Express, connecting Singapore with Malaysia.

Adopting a ‘go with the flow’ approach

As Simon explains, ‘slow travel’ isn’t just about the time it takes to reach a destination: it’s also a mindset.

The research from Scott Dunn Travel also finds that Brits aren’t exploring as much as they used to, instead taking a fast-paced, pre-arranged approach to holidaying.

However, 30% reported that going on an excursion helps them to unwind on a trip and 31% said that mother nature also helps them to relax, proving the point that perhaps taking a ‘go with the flow’ approach might wield some benefit.

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Daily horoscope today: June 25, 2024 astrological predictions for your star sign

So, why not channel your spontaneous side the next time you go away? It could change the way you holiday forever.

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing [email protected] .

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Victim of Metro shooting identified by authorities; suspects remain outstanding

A man who died after being shot on a Metro train in Los Angeles on Friday has been identified. 

The shooting, which took place around 7:22 p.m. on the E line near the La Cienega/Jefferson station in L.A.’s West Adams neighborhood, claimed the life of 38-year-old Juan Garcia, the Los Angeles Police Department confirmed. 

Responding officers found Garcia with a gunshot wound to the head; he was not conscious or breathing at the time, police said Friday evening. He was pronounced dead at the scene. 

The preliminary investigation revealed that there was “some kind of argument” between a group of men on the street level before they all ran up the stairs and boarded the train, LAPD Captain Jamie Bennett said. 

Witnesses to the shooting recalled seeing three men chasing the victim on the platform followed by the victim getting onto the train as the doors were closing. 

“I saw three guys banging on the door screaming ‘Snitch, snitch!” the witness, who did not wish to be identified, told KTLA. “The train car ends up taking off [but] the next thing you know, it stops because the trains normally stop and let the late people on the train.” 

“But in this case, those people ended up pulling out a gun and shooting a guy point blank,” the witness said. 

All three suspects were described as Hispanic men who fled the area on skateboards. As of early Saturday afternoon, they remained on the loose. 

Friday’s fatal shooting comes amid a string of violent incidents at Metro properties across the Los Angeles area; in March, a transient armed with an airsoft gun hijacked a Metro bus and crashed into the Ritz-Carlton in downtown L.A.  

On May 5, the driver of a DASH bus – which is operated by the city of Los Angeles – was brutally attacked by a homeless woman in an assault that was caught on camera. 

Eight days later, a woman was attacked at the Vermont/Athens Metro station and two juveniles were taken into custody after a fight broke out on a Metro bus in Glendale within hours of each other .

Three days after that, a Metro bus passenger was shot dead hours after the MTA held a news conference on transit safety. 

In an attempt to curb the violence, Metro officials announced t he authorization of an “immediate surge” of law enforcement to patrol buses, trains and stations to address drivers’ and riders’ concerns in May. 

To view the latest Metro public safety data, click here . 

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.

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