Getting Around Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is Greece's second-largest city and a major transportation hub for the wider region. As a visitor, you have several practical options for moving around the city, from public transport networks to taxis and walking.
Walking and Exploring on Foot
Much of central Thessaloniki is walkable, making it possible to explore many areas on foot. The city centre is compact enough for casual exploration, and walking is often the most direct way to reach nearby attractions.
Public Transport Overview
Thessaloniki has an integrated public transport network combining metro, tram, and bus services. A single ticket system covers these modes, making it straightforward to plan multi-modal journeys across the city.
Metro and Tram
The city operates a metro system with connections to the city centre. Bus line 02X from the airport connects to Nea Elvetia metro station, where you can access metro services toward the city centre. The tram network also operates within the city, providing another option for moving between districts.
Buses
An extensive bus network serves Thessaloniki's neighbourhoods and connects to surrounding areas. Buses are a reliable way to reach different parts of the city. Tickets can be purchased at vending booths or ticket machines on board (cards accepted). The standard ticket price for a single trip is €2.
Several bus lines serve specific routes:
- Bus line 01X runs 24/7 between the airport, the New Railway Station, and the Macedonia InterCity Bus Terminal, with frequency between 15 and 30 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes at night. A single ticket costs €2.
- Bus line 02X connects the airport to Nea Elvetia metro station, running every 20 minutes for most of the day and hourly in late evening.
- Bus line 79 connects the airport to the IKEA bus terminal on the city's east side, where you can transfer to other routes; a ticket is €0.60.
- Bus line 45 links the Halkidiki Bus Station with the Makedonia Bus Station.
- Bus line 36 connects the Halkidiki Bus Station with other parts of the city.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Taxis are available throughout the city and can be hailed on the street or pre-arranged through travel platforms and rideshare services. From the airport to the city centre, expect to pay approximately €15–20. During peak hours (7:00–8:00 AM, 2:00–4:00 PM, and 7:00–9:00 PM), taxis can be difficult to find, so planning ahead is advisable.
Getting from the Airport to the City
Thessaloniki International Airport "Macedonia" is located 15 km south of the city centre. Several transport options connect the airport to the city:
- By bus and metro: Take bus 02X to Nea Elvetia metro station and connect to metro services toward the city centre. Buses run every 20 minutes during most of the day and hourly in late evening.
- By bus (budget option): Bus line 79 goes to the IKEA bus terminal for €0.60, where you can transfer to other city buses. This saves money compared to direct routes but involves an extra transfer.
- By bus (direct): Bus line 01X provides the most direct service between the airport, the New Railway Station, and the Macedonia InterCity Bus Terminal. Tickets cost €2 and can be purchased at the airport bus stop or on board. The journey to the city centre takes around 40 minutes. Daytime frequency is 15–30 minutes; at night, bus 01N runs every 30 minutes. Note that buses can become crowded during busy times.
- By taxi: Pre-arrange through travel platforms or rideshare services to guarantee availability, especially during peak hours.
- On foot with alternatives nearby: A walking trail runs from the airport area toward the sea and nearby shopping centres including IKEA and Hondos Centre, both offering food, refreshments, and free Wi-Fi. From these centres, you can access bus lines to the city.
Buying Tickets and Passes
Single bus tickets cost €2 and can be purchased at vending booths at major stops or directly on buses via ticket machines. Cards are accepted for payment. Multiple operators run different services, so ticket types and passes may vary by route. It is advisable to ask at ticket counters or check information boards for current fares and any available passes for longer stays.
Train Connections
Thessaloniki is an important rail hub with connections to other cities across Greece and the wider region. The New Thessaloniki railway station is located at Monastiriou Street 28. Train services are operated by Hellenic Train and include intercity trains to Athens and regional trains to cities in Northern Greece and beyond. The station has staff available to assist with accessibility. For recorded information about domestic train departures, call 1440.
Accessibility
Staff are normally available at all major stations to facilitate transportation for disabled persons. Inquire at stations or ticket counters about assistance options when planning your journey.