Travelling from Italy to Lefkada, Zante and Santorini

The Question:

hello I will be travelling from italy to greece and would like to visit santorini as well as lefkada and possibly zante and am having troubles connecting the pathways,
can you please assist me,
thanks Stavros!!


The Answer:

Hello!
This sounds like a nice trip!
So, if you start from Italy then you will probably stop at either Igoumenitsa or Patras. From Patras you need to either rent a car or catch a bus to reach Zante or Lefkada. There is no direct ferry connection from Lefkada to Zante. To reach Zante you can take the bus from Patras which will take you to Killini and from there you will take the ferry to Zante. To reach Lefkada, you can take the bus from Patras and it will take you straight there, without having to take a ferry since the island is connected to the mainland by a bridge. Another interesting way to travel from Lefkada to Zante is to take the ferry from Vassiliki in Lefkada and go to Kefallonia and from the Kefallonia (southern part) take the ferry to Zante.
Santorini is on the other side of Greece and belongs to the Aegean Sea islands. To reach Santorini you need to take the ferry from the port of Athens (Piraeus) or take a plane from the Athens International Airport.
Hope I have helped!

-Stavros

Taxi charge from Piraeus to Ledra Marriot Hotel

The Question:

How much would you charge for a taxi from the cruise ship terminal to the Ledra Marriott?

The Answer:

Hello!
Depending where exactly the cruise ship terminal is the prices for a taxi transfer can vary. If the terminal is at the Piraeus port, then the taxi, considering light traffic, should not take you more than 8-10 euros (luggage included).

-Stavros

Timetables from Mytilene to Thermi

The Question:

We will be coming to Lesbos on 4th SEptember. Is there an online timetable for the buses. I have the timetables for the local buses in the North but I would like to go to Thermi when we visit. If we travel by intercity bus to Mytilene is it possible to get a bus to Thermi and how often do they go.
I think this is an excellent site and I look forward to your reply.
Many thanks
Gillian

The Answer:

Hello Gillian,

Thank you for your kind words!
Unfortunately there are no online timetables of buses mainly because they change quite often and can not be updated ontime, so even if you find something it is always advisable to double-check it by calling the call center of the Bus station.
As far as the route from Mytilene to Thermi is concerned, there are buses departing every 30 minutes, starting from 06.10 until 22.00.
Hope I have helped!

-Stavros

From Volos airport to Volos

The Question:

Hi Stavros again,
After sending my question I read your blog archive and see that several other people had asked similar questions about tavelling between Volos and Pelion.
So my revised question is can you get from Volos airport to Volos without prebooking a taxi?If not, why do they build an airport without transport links?!!
My compliments on your clear answers.
Many Thanks
David Worth


The Answer:

Hello David!
The Volos airport is actually used for commercial purposes and only serves passengers through the summer time and more specifically with charter flights. For example the national carrier of Greece does not fly to Volos with scheduled flights.
As a result the airport of Volos is only served by taxis which are informed whenver a plane is arriving and will be waiting outside the airport.
Unfortunately there is no other option of transportation...

-Stavros

From Agios Constantinos to Athens

The Question:

How do I get from the port of Ag Constantinos (arriving from Skiatos) to Athens International Airport on Friday morning 29/8 10:15. I have a flight from Athens 14:30 that I must catch. The alternative is to catch an evening boat arriving 19:30 to AC but that is very bad for my planning.
Thanks for response in advance
Åke


The Answer:

Hey Ake!
So as soon as you arrive at Agios Constantinos, you need to catch the suburban bus KTEL to Athens and then you will arrive at the Liosion bus station. From there you can take the bus to the Athens International airport.
You need to keep in mind though that the bus from Agios Konstantinos will take tou approximately 2 hours and the bus from Liosion Bus Station to the airport aroun 45 minutes so you will be short in time...

-Stavros

Where exactly is the Piraeus Subway station and how long is it from the Acropolis to Filopappou hill?

The Question:

1. Exactly where is the subway station in Piraeus? How close to where a cruise ship would berth? You wrote to someone that the station is right outside of the port. Does that mean just a few minutes away?
2. How long would it take to walk from the Acropolis to the top of Filopappou Hill? We are medium speed walkers, definitely not slow. What is the best route to take?
Thank you, Stavros
Visitors from USA

The Answer:

Hello from Greece!
Concerning your first question, the subway station in Piraeus is exactly opposite gates E6 and E7 from where the majority of ships depart. This means that as soon as you get of the station, you only have to cross the air bridge to other side of the street and you will have entered the port. From there, depending on your departure gate, you will either see the ships in front of you (gates E5, E6, E7 and E8) or you will have to take the internal bus to reach gates E1, E2, E3, E4 and E10.

The Filopappou hill is across the gates of the Acropolis, so I would say that it is approximately a 15 minute walk up to the hill. You will find it quite easily and the view is astonishing!

Hope you will have a nice stay in Greece and that I have helped!

-Stavros

Timetables of Seaplanes to Corfu and Lefkas

The Question:

Stavros,
another question, I know there is a seaplane flying between corfu and lefkas. Their site www.airsealines.com is out of order. Do you have a time table form me and a telephone number?greetings
Raijmond Pijnenburg

The Answer:

Hello Raijmond!
Actually this is a seaplane company that mainly sells its tickets through the website and through the phone. I can see that there is no access in the information regarding timetables, so here are some useful numbers where you can call and ask all relevant information:
In Corfu it is +30 26610 99316 and in Lefkas it is +30 26450 22360.
Hope this will help!

-Stavros

Bus Timetables from Igoumenitsa to Thessaloniki through Kalampaka and Volos

The Question:

can you advise bus timetables please
Igoumenitsa to Kalambaka (stay for two nights) then Kalambaka to Volos.
Then Volos to Thessaloniki.
Many thanks for your help.
Cristina

The Answer:

Hello Cristina!
There is no direct bus connection from Igoumenitsa to Kalampaka, so you need to take the bus to Ioannina first. Timetables change quite frequently, so it is better to call the central bus stations to confirm scheduled itineraries. The phone number of the bus station in Igoumenitsa is +30 26650 99300, the one in Ioannina is +30 26510 31070, the one in Volos is +30 24210 33254.
Hope this will be useful to you!

-Stavros

Where is the suburban bus station of Igoumenitsa?

The Question:

Hi,
I want to travel by bus from igoumenitsa to Lefkas. Can you tell me where to find the busstation in igoumenitsa?
Thanks, Raijmond

The Answer:

Hey Raijmond!
So the suburban bus station KTEL of Igoumenitsa is located at 29 Kyprou street in Igoumenitsa. I am not so sure though, that they have a direct bus connection with Lefkada, so it would be better if you could call them first and confirm bus schedules. The phone number is +30 26650 99300.

Regards,
-Stavros

Bus Schedules from Mytilene to Eressos

The Question:

what time to the buses go on the island of Lesvos from Myteliene KTEL square bus station to erresos in the mornings?

The Answer:

Hello!
According to the timetables of the suburban buses KTEL of Mytilene, these are the departure times to Eressos:
09.00 - 11.00 - 13.15 daily, and 09.00 - 12.00 on Sundays.
Hope I have helped!

-Stavros

Holy Cross festivities in Lefkada

The Question:

Geia sou Stravre,
You helped me so well in the question of Melissa gorge that I would ask the following.I have been trying to find out if there are any festivities concerning the day of the Holy Cross, Sept 14. As we arrive 13 Sept. on Lefkada it would be nice to know weather there are special things to see. May be only in churches dedicated to Agios Stavros if there is any on Lefkas?
Thanks in advance for your reply,
have a good Sunday,
me enkardious xairetismous,
Johan

The Answer:

Hey Johan!
As far as I know there is no listed festivity for the date mentioned...But churches of the same name will definitely be celebrating and it is quite possible that some small feast may take place. This depends on the mayor though and on the people of the village, as a result so far I do not have any information on a scheduled feast!
Have a nice day,

-Stavros

Km Distance from Thessaloniki to Igoumenitsa

The Question:

How many km by car from Thessaloniki to Igoumenitsa?

The Answer:

The distance between the two cities is 415km from which 221km are on motorways.

-Stavros

Transport times from Athens to Volos and Accommodation Tips in Athens

The Question:

Hi Stavros
I arrive at Athens airport at 20.50 on 10th September. I spend the following day in Athens seeing the sights. I travel to Volos on the 12th. I need decent, basic accomodation on the 10th and the 11th. The hotel near the airport is far too expensive. Could you help with transport times and accomodation?
kind regards
Vincent

The Answer:

Hi Vincent!
As far as the accommodation in Athens is concerned, then you can check out www.athenshotels.gr to find the most suitable place for you. as far as trasport times are concerned, due to the fact that bus or even train itineraries change frequently and according to demand, it is advisable to call the central stations first to confirm them. The central bus station for buses departing to Volos is the Liosion Bus station and the phone number is +30 210 8317153 and the train station to Volos is called Stathmos Larissis and the phone number is +30 210 5297777.

-Stavros

Driving from Thessaloniki to Igoumenitsa

The Question:

Hello Stavros,we will be driving from Thessaloniki to Igoumenitsa and were wondering what is the best route.


The Answer:

Hello!
The recommended tour from Thessaloniki to Igoumenitsa is to follow at first the road to Katerini, then to Leptokarya and Tempi. Then you pass by Larisa, Trikala and Ioannina and then you arrive to Igoumenitsa!

-Stavros

Accommodation in Athens-Ampelokipoi

The Question:

Yassis Stavros!!
Thanks for the answer to my last 2 questions; now here is my next......can you recommend a hotel in the Ambilokopi area of Athens? Not expensive but decent and central.
Thanks so much
Jayne in Canada

The Answer:

Hey Jayne!
Ampelokipoi has a variety of hotels to stay in. Since I do not know the exact dates you are interested in, I can not recommend you anything in particular because I do not know the availability of the hotels and the season (prices change). If you want, you can also visit www.athenshotels.gr and check availability and prices for hotels in Athens!

-Stavros

Online Ferry Booking to Skiathos

The Question:

Hello Stavros,
My name iz Ivana. In september I am going to Skiathos, I planed to stay from 8-18.09.2008. Question is there avaliable ferry to Skiathos on Monday 8.09.2008 or Saturday 7.09.2008 We are going by car Toyota corolla 1.4 - caravan Two passengers/Age - 28 and 29 I wrote e-mail beacause I see avalible ferry but I can t book the tickets. Can you help me?
Best regards,
Ivana

The Answer:

Hey Ivana!
I can also see that there is an available ferry to Skiathos on the days you are referring. Since I do not know the website that you are trying to book the ferry tickets from, please try to book them from www.fantasticgreece.com/boats. If any other problems occur you can try and call them, they will happily help you!

-Stavros

From Athens to Igoumenitsa

The Question:

Hi Stavros!
We want to go from Athens to Igoumenitsa so we can go to Bari, Italy.
I heard that you can get a bus there, but at what times and how often do they depart? Is there other/faster ways to get there (by train)?
Thank you!
Cass

The Answer:

Hey Cass!
You can reach Igoumenitsa by taking a bus from the Kifisos suburban bus station KTEL. Due to the fact that itineraries change frequently it is better to call at the bus station first to confirm the bus schedules. The phone number is +30 210 5125954.

-Stavros

Taxi price from Thessaloniki Airport to Kozani

The Question:

What is the price for a taxi from Thessaloniki Airport to Prosillion ( Kozani).
Thanks
Ric de Wit

The Answer:

Hello Ric!
The price of the taxi should not be more than 85 euros for this specific itinerary! But you need to have decided on the final price that you will pay in advance so as to avoid changes when you arrive at the final destination!

-Stavros

Tips for spending a day in Thessaloniki before travelling by ferry

The Question:

Χερετε,
I am arriving in Thessaloniki from London at 3.50am. on my way to Skopelos. Can I book a berth on the ferry when I get there? Can I leave my luggage at the ferry office?What would be a good way to spend my day in Thessaloniki? I am an active grandmother, so what should I not miss out on seeing?
Jessica

The Answer:

Hello Jessica!
Berths for the ferries can be booked at the time of your arrival or even inside the ferry as long as there are available ones. Most of the times ferry offices do not accept luggage to be left unattended but you will be able to find lockers at the port of Thessaloniki to leave your stuff.
If you want to check on sightseeing of Thessaloniki, then you can visit http://www.fantasticgreece.com/destination-guides/thessaloniki-sightseeing-guide.asp and find out the hot spots that you must not omit!
Have a nice stay in Greece!

-Stavros

Withdrawing money from ATM's using Mastercard

The Question:

Hi Stavros,
I am going to Lemnos in a couple of weeks, and am planning to use banks in Myrina to get cash out, do they accept "mastercard" at their ATM's.
Many thanks
Peter

The Answer:

Hey Peter!
All ATM's in Greece accept Mastercard in order to withdraw money as long as they have the sign of the Mastercard on them. The majority of them offers this service so you do not need to worry!

-Stavros

Travelling by ferry from Thessaloniki to Athens

The Question:

Where can I find information on ferries departing Thessaloniki? I like to travel to a Greek island and then on to Pireas via ferry. Departure from Thessaloniki on or about 15 September. I need to be in Athens on 19 September. Can you recommend an itinerary?
Thank you. Vicky

The Answer:

Hey Vicky!
All available ferry schedules can be found with just a simple search at www.fantasticgreece.com/boats. As a result you will be able to find there the ferry schedule that suits you the most. As far as I know the only ferry company connecting Thessaloniki with Piraeus (Athens port) is Anek lines, unles you travel to some island first and then take another ferry.

-Stavros

To Alonissos via Athens International Airport or Volos Airport

The Question:

Hello Stavros;Lovely site. CongratulationsI want to travel from Spain to Alonyssos. Apparently I have 2 flight options: A) Via Athens or B)via Volos.
My questions (searching a cost effective solution)are:1) Can you give me the best way to connect straight from Venizelos airport to AG CONSTANTINOS and take the flying dolphin2) If option B is adviseable, what are the airlines flying in to try to connect via Aghialos (Volos) airport.
Thanks very very much for the help
Miguel

The Answer:

Hello Miguel and thanks for the compliment!
Unfortunately there is no direct way from the Athens International Airport to Agios Constantinos unless you take a taxi or rent a car. The Volos airport is only used by charter airlines and this happens mainly during the summer period. Maybe you should check some big online booking websites to find available itineraries, because these flights are few and change frequently...

-Stavros

Pick up from Alonissos Port in the night

The Question:

Dear Stavros:On September 3rd we are arriving in Athens at 10.30We want to go to Alonissos. What I find is a ferry at 19.45 from Agios Constantini to Alonissos, arriving at 23, quite late to find a taxi there.Do you know any other ferry or Flying Dolphin departing earlier?
Thanks a lot
Naldo

The Answer:

Dear Naldo,
There are no more ferry itineraries available than the ones you see at the ferry websites. But keep in mind that despite the time of the day (23.00) there are always taxis waiting at the port to pick up passengers and take them to places they wish. So you won't have a problem finding a taxi on the island.

-Stavros

How to reach the port of Volos from the airport of Volos

The Question:

Hi Stavros,I am arriving Volos airport on 3 September at 11.50 and want to travel on to Allonisos by boat. I see there is a ferry/Flying cat at 13.00.How do we get to the Volos Port from the airport and how much time do we need to plan?
thanks
Paul

The Answer:

Hey Paul!
The only way to reach the Volos port from the airport of Volos is to take a taxi from there. It shouldn't take you long to reach the port since it is very close to the city of Volos, so you should estimate no more than 30 minutes.
Hope I helped!

-Stavros

Volos-Alonissos Ferry Schedules in September

The Question:

Hi Stavros, i am worried about my journey to Alonissos.How i could get there from Thessaloniki airport? i will be at Thessaloniki airport on 11/09/2008 at 9:00am.it seems, according to what i have found on internet, that the only ferry is departing from Volos at 9:00...and the departure day from Alonissos should be on 20/09/2008, because my flight from thessaloniki is 21/09/2008 at 10:30..
thank you for you help,have a nice day!
Edo

The Answer:

Hey Edo!
Unfortunately ferry companies have not yet announced their ferry schedules for September and I can not really help you regarding timetables. I know it must be difficult for you not to know timetables so as to organise your trip in the best possible way, but I can not learn anything more until the ferry companies announce their final schedule. So patience is the only option for the time being...
From Thessaloniki you can reach Volos either by bus or train but as you can see in previous entries.

Regards,
-Stavros

Cheap Accommodation near Cape Sounio

The Question:

Hi Stavros,
Is there an inexpensive Hotel or Guesthouse near Cape Sounion? Perhaps in Legrena or Lavrio? Everything I can find on the web is so expensive.
Thanks a lot.
Graham

The Answer:

Hello Graham!
Unfortunately the area has not many hotels that are listed on the web and only the expensive ones can be booked online. You will be able to find cheap accommodation when you arrive there and look at the spot especially in Lavrio and not exactly in Sounio which is a rather expensive area.

-Stavros

From Volos to Trikeri by bus

The Question:

How to go by bus from Volos to Trikeri ?
Many thanks for your answer, dear Mr. Stavros.

The Answer:

Hello!
There is a bus from the central bus station KTEL in Volos that will take you to Trikeri. If you are interested in learning timetables and prices, then you can call at +30 24210 33254.
Hope this has helped!

-Stavros

From Athens International Airport to Piraeus Port by taxi

The Question:

Hi Stavros,
Thanks for speaking to the uninformed like the Oracle of Delphi!
1. Is the airport - port traffic heavy around 6h30 -7h30 on a Thursday morning? I have just one hour to collect the ticket and catch the ferry... or rebook and wait 10 hours.
2. Do you have the phone numbers of two regular taxi companies in Pireus that I can contact, please? (Any idea of what a reasonable fare would be?)
Thanks!
Celia Mendelsohn

The Answer:
Hello Celia and thank you for your kind words!
Regarding your first question, the traffic on Thursday morning is not heavy so you won't stuck anywhere for a long time and the journey should be easy by car or taxi. On the other hand, if you take the metro, then you won't stop anywhere so this won't be a problem too. By saying that you need to collect your tickets, where exactly do you mean? Because if you have to collect your tickets from the Piraeus port, then this should not be a problem, whereas if you need to pick them up from somewhere in the city center, then you may need more time!
As far as the price from the Athens International Airport to the port of Piraeus is concerned, then a reasonable price would be 58 euros and you can also check this online at www.taxireservations.gr!
Hope I have helped you!

-Stavros

Ferry connection between Alonissos and Limnos or Lesvos

The Question:

Hi,my name is Lorenzo, I want to reach Alonissos from Limnos or Lesvos.Is there any connection?I read on Lonely Planet that here was a weekly connection between Skiatos and Limnos,but this year probably not available.Can you help me?
thanks

The Answer:

Hey Lorenzo!There is no ferry connection between Alonissos and Limnos or Lesvos this year. You will have to reach Piraeus port and then reach Alonissos from either the port of Agios Constantinos or the port of Volos.

-Stavros

Ferry connection between Alonissos and Limnos or Lesvos

The Question:

Hi,my name is Lorenzo, I want to reach Alonissos from Limnos or Lesvos.Is there any connection?I read on Lonely Planet that here was a weekly connection between Skiatos and Limnos,but this year probably not available.Can you help me?
thanks

The Answer:

Hey Lorenzo!
There is no ferry connection between Alonissos and Limnos or Lesvos this year. You will have to reach Piraeus port and then reach Alonissos from either the port of Agios Constantinos or the port of Volos.

-Stavros

Buses from Nafplion to Kalamata and Gytheion

The Question:

Hi Stavros
Is there a timetable or route map showing buses from Nafplion to Kalmata as well as Nafplion to Gythion down the coast?
Thanks!
Lee

The Answer:

Hey Lee!
Since timetables of buses change frequently in Greece, I can not tell you for sure times of departure. You can call though at the suburban buses stations though to find out exactly. The phone number of the bus station in Nafplion is +30 27520 27323.
Hope I have helped!

-Stavros

To Athens from Lefkada by train or bus?

The Question:

Hi Stavros!
My friends and I (8 in total)are going on a sailing holiday leaving from Lefkada. We have all managed to rent a car to get from Athens to Lefkada but not to return to Athens on Sunday the 31st of August. If we can\'t find a hire car (there are some available but too expensive) what is the best and fastest way to get from Lefkada to Athens? Would you recommend a bus or maybe a train journey?
Thank you very much for your help!
Kind regards,
Alex

The Answer:

Hello Alex!
I would definetely recommed the bus journey since it is going to be much faster and it will last approximately 5-6 hours. There is no train near Lefkada so things can be quite complicated. You can call +30 210 5250108 to learn about the scheduled bus itineraries!

-Stavros

Bus Itineraries from Athens to Lefkada

The Question:

What's the timeschedule for the bus Athens - lefkada ?

The Answer:

Hello!
Since bus schedules change frequently it is advisable to call the suburban bus station KTEL of either Athens or Lefkada to confirm them. The phone number of the Athens station is +30 210 5150108, and the phone number of the bus station in Lefkada is +30 26540 22364.
The bus itineraries that were available so far, had as follows:
From Athens at 07.00, 13.00, 16.30, 20.45.

-Stavros

Reaching Zante from Corfu

The Question:

Hello Stavros,
what is easiest way to go from Corfu(Dassia) to Zakynthos(Tsilivi).Our relatives will travel to Corfu, and my family to Zakynthos and we would like to spend one or two day together on either island.
regards from Munich
Sinisa

The Answer:

Hello Sinisa!
Since there is no ferry connection between Corfu and Zante, then the only options for you are either flying to Zante or taking the bus. Of course flying from Corfu to Zante will save you a lot of time compared to taking the bus or the car, because in the second case you will have to go to Igoumenitsa first and then deive until Killini which is situated in the Peloponesse and then take a ferry to the island of Zante. If you want to check flight, just visit www.fantasticgreece.com!
Hope this has been useful to you!

-Stavros

From Parga to Athens and Piraeus

The Question:

My sister is travelling from Parga to Athens on Monday September 8th 2008.I arrive from UK at the airport at 16.10 - we want to meet either at the airport or at Pireaus.I am getting no luck emailing parga info, or anywhere else as to bus services - we need to know:1. Are there direct buses Parga-Athens, or does she have to go to Igoumenitsia or Ioannina and change? And where can I find out bus times please?2. Is there a bus from Kifissou bus terminal to Pireaus - she may not be early enough to meet me at the airport(we want to get the evening crossing to Poros, so may not have time!)
Thanks
Joanna

The Answer:

Hello Joanna!
First of all, there are buses going from the Kifisos Suburban Bus Station to Parga and if you are interested in time schedules then you can call +30 210 5124910. To reach the Piraeus port from the Kifisos station, there is no direct bus. You need to either use the 051 bus to the city center and then tha subway to Piraeus or take a bus from the Kifisos avenue which will take you up until one point in Piraeus. Otherwise you can catch a taxi, especially if your time is limited.
Hope I have helped!

-Stavros

From Andros to the Cyclades

The Question:

we would like to visit some of cyclades on the way too or from andros where we stay with friends.where would be the best place to start and finish for flights home.

The Answer:

Hello there!
From Andros you can take the ferry to Mykonos and from there visit many other islands that belong to the Cyclades. You can check all available ferry itineraries and schedules at www.fantasticgreece.com and choose the ones you are interested in!
The islands that have airports so that you can catch a flight back home are Mykonos, Santorini, Milos, otherwise you need to return to Athens!

-Stavros

Renting an automatic car in Greece

The Question:

Stavros you are amazing!!!! Your information has helped me alot!! Thank you so much Efkaristo para para poli!!!!!! Jayne p.s. my next question is : can I ever get a cheap AUTOMATIC rent a car??????? why is it so so so expensive????? I am from canada and can not drive a standard......I lived in greece for 8 years and never found a solution to this BIG problem I want to drive but I am not rich.....what do you think???? I would like to rent a car in the Magnesia area ... from Volos..... to the Platania area....Thank you so much Efkaristo para para poli........

The Answer:

Hey Jayne!
I'm glad I helped! Unfortunately automatic cars are not that common to drive in Greece and this is why they are quite expensive to rent. Check the website www.fantasticgreece.com/cars to see availability and prices for automatic cars in the area you're interested in and I hope you will find something worth considering!

-Stavros

From Kifisos Suburban Bus Station to Piraeus Port

The Question:

Hello!
In a few days I'll be coming from Patra to Athens by bus.They told me I will arrive to Kifisos Bus Station. From there I have to get to Piraeus port within 1 hour.Do you know how I can get from the bus station to Piraeus?
Thank you very much for your attention
Alessio

The Answer:

Hello Alessio!
To reach the Piraeus port, you need to take the bus 051 from the suburban bus station KTEL, take off at the end of the its route and then take the subway (green line) from Omonoia to Piraeus (final station). Since you have limited time, maybe it would be a better idea if you could catch a taxi from the suburban bus station. Keep in mind that depending on the time you arrive and the day the traffic maybe heavier and as a result take you longer than 30 minutes to arrive at the port!

-Stavros

How to reach Milina from Volos and then Thessaloniki

The Question:

Hello,
we are arriving on the 12 th of September in Volos airport and want to go on to Milina to go sailing for two weeks.
Do you know how much Taxi are aprrox.? Maybe we would like to make a stopp at a supermarket to get some food for our trip- any recommondations for a big supermarket somewhere on the way to Milina?What about bus connection at this time of the year? Can you buy the ticket on the bus?
At the end of our trip we want to go to Thessaloniki- do you how to get there from Milina by public transport?
Thanks for your help!
Birgit

The Answer:

Hello Birgit!

There is no big taxi company in Volos that I can contact and ask about the prices from the Volos airport to Milina. Keep in mind that the cot of the taxi transfer will depend on the people in the taxi, the pieces of luggage that you will have and the distance to the destination, which in your case is 45km and should not take you over 50 minutes to reach it. Either way it is better to have negotiated the final cost of the taxi transfer before getting into the taxi, so as to avoid later on problems with the taxi driver.
You can also take the suburban bus KTEL from Volos. Buses depart quite often to Milina and tickets can be bought either at the main bus station where you will take the bus from or inside the bus. Tickets cost no more than 10 euros per person. As far as the super-market is concerned, you will find many big ones in the town of Volos.
From Volos to Thessaloniki, you can either take the suburban bus KTEL or the train. Both are quite convenient but the buses depart more often. They take approximately the same time to reach Thessaloniki, which is almost 2.5 hours.
Hope I have helped you!

-Stavros

Is pre-booking necessary in September for the greek islands?

The Question:

Thank you Stavros that was most helpful.
Also, in September is it safe to just show up at Naxos, Santorini and Corfuwithout pre booking accommodation, and choosing good places once we get offthe ferry?
Athas

The Answer:

September is not a peak period for Greece, so the majority of hotels have available rooms even in places such as Santorini and Corfu. As a result, a pre-booking is not necessay, unless you want to something very specific or have something special in mind!

-Stavros

From Athens to Ptolemaida and Igoumenitsa

The Question:

Hi Stavros,
I have to take the family from Athens to Ptolemaida, and after 3 nights go to Igoumenitsa to get the ferry for Corfu. How long does the bus take from athens to ptolemaida and is the train a good alternative? Also, how long does the bus take from ptolemaida to igoumenitsa?
Thank you
Athas

The Answer:

Hello Athas!
The bus from Athens to Ptolemaida will take you approximately 7 hours, even something more, if you take the bus stops under consideration. The journey by train from Athens might take you something more because it is a slow one and stops quite often...The journey from Ptolemaida to Igoumenitsa will take you almost 4.5 hours.
Always glad to help!

-Stavros

From Kastelorrizo to Kas and Platanias to Skiathos

The Question:

Yassis Stavros!!
This site is awesome...you are awesome!! I have a question for you. Can I get a boat from Kastellorizo to Cas?? And another question, can I get a boat from Platania to Skiathos? I realize that these would be private boats not ferries....any idea of the cost??
Efkaristo para poli,
Jayne Pnevmatikos

P.s. keep up the good work!!

The Answer:

Hey Jayne and thank you for all your kind words!
There is a ferry connection between Kastellorizo and Kas in Turkey and more specifically caiques are travelling to and from Kas daily. Since it is a local business, prices change and there is online booking option or a fixed pricelist. There is also a ferry connection between Platanias and Skiathos, but once again the ferry company is local.
Hope I have helped!

-Stavros

From Athens to Volos by Train

The Question:

Hi Stavros!
I have to get to Volos from Athens. I see from previous mails that it would entail a number of metro and bus changes from Athens airport to Liosion bus Terminal. Is there no train going to Volos?Also, if we need to stay overnight in an area nearby Liosion station (after arriving early evening into Athens, so that we can depart nice and early the next morning) what area would you recomend? Somewhere nice, good restaurants and nightlife but easy metro to Liosion?
Thanks for your help!

The Answer:

Hey there!
There is a train connection from Athens to Volos, but the trains departing to Volos are not very frequent. Trains de part from the "Stathmos Larissis" central train station which you can reach by using the metro and taking off at the station "Larissis" on the red line.
As far as the areas to stay near Liosion street are concerned, I would not recommend any near the bus station. They are quite dangerous and not that lovely to stay even just for one night. The next possible areas where you could stay are some metro stations away, so you would have to make a little journey again the nexti morning.
Hope this has helped!

-Stavros

Truck Ferry from Greece to Cyprus

The Question:

GOOD AFTERNOON
COULD YOU TELL ME IF THERE IS A TRUCK FERRY FROM GREECE TO CYPRUS PLEASE
REGARDS
ALLAN THORNTON

The Answer:

Good Afternoon Allan!
Travel Agencies do not sell tickets from Greece to Cyprus. As a result, I don't think that you will find a ferry for this route, unless you want to travel by cargo ships but unfortunately I can not help you in this field.

-Stavros

Are the monasteries in Meteora reached by car?

The Question:

Stavros

Really great advice and a fantastic service to travellers to Greece - many thanks.

Do you know if it is possible to reach any of the monasteries by car - 300 steps in the heat sounds a bit daunting!

Cheers

Ray

The Answer:

Thank you Ray for your kind words! Always a pleasure to help visitors of Greece!
Actually all monasteries can be reached by car, but this is up to one point. Unfortunately, the 300 steps for the specific monastery are unavoidable, since the location of the building of the monastery is on either the top of these huge and steep cliffs or at their side but carved into the cliff. An extraordinary sight!

-Stavros

Scheduled Ferry Itineraries for September 2008

The Question:

We are will be spending our holidays on Skopelos from the 29th of August - 12th of September and would like to purchase roundtrip ferry tickets Volos - Skopelos. Apparently there are no return trips in September. How can we solve this problem and are there any ferry trips in September?
Please be so kind to reply soon
Sincerely,
Ivana

The Answer:

Hello Ivana,
The greek ferry companies usually announce their scheduled ferry itineraries up to some date in September. In this case scheduled ferry itineraries come up available for booking until the 8th of September. This doesn'e necessarily mean that the timetables will change from September 8th to the 12th but no one can be 100% certain. As a result, since neither the travel agencies know something more about this subject, I would recommend you to wait some more days in case the system is updated with the new timetables.
You will not face any availability problems during this time of the year, so you will be able to buy tickets even when arriving at the port!

-Stavros

-Stavros

From Piraeus Port to the City Center and the Athens International Airport

The Question:

Hello Stavros
We will be arriving at the Piraeus port Oct 1, 2008 and would like to get into Athens (Cecil Hotel).. What is the best way you would recommend.
We would also like to transfer from the Cecil Hotel to the international airport by express bus for our 6:40 am flight back to canada. How would you recommend we proceed????
Many thanks....Marc....friends from Canada

The Answer:

Hello Marc!
To reach the Cecil hotel in Athens from the Piraeus port, you can take the green line of the subway (station Piraeus right outside the port of Piraeus) and take of at Monastiraki station. From there it is a 4 minute walk up to your hotel walking on Athinas street.
Since you have a transatlantic flight, you need to ne at the airport at least 3 hours prior the departure of your flight, so you should be there until 03.30 am. The express bus from the city center to the Athens International Airport will make the journey in approximately 50 minutes. The Express bus line X95 which departs from Syntagma sqaure runs quite often 24 hours a day, but the most suitable itinerary for you would be the one at 02.25. To reach Syntagma square from your hotel you can take a taxi because there is no public transport at the time of the night and it is quite close, so the taxi driver should not charge you more than 8 euros (with your luggage). To check timetables and stops of the X95 express bus line to the airport, visit
http://www.oasa.gr/index.asp?asp=routes/bus_stop.asp&route_id=+%D795&rvariant_id=1&medium=0&s_t=16.
Hope I have helped!

-Stavros

From Skiathos to Agios Ioannis in Pelion

The Question:

Hi Stavros,
Please advise - how can we get from Skiathos to Agios Ioannis Pelion on 10 September 2008
Jay

The Answer:

Hey Jay!
There is a flying dolphin service from Skiathos to Agios Ioannis in Pelion, but there is no fixed timetable on departures. This means that depending on the traffic and day of the week the itineraries are subject to change. As a result the ideal solution would be to ask the port authorities of Skiathos islands about the scheduled departures. The phone number of the port authorities of Skiathos is 0030 24270 22017.
Hope the people there will be able to give you the right information!

-Stavros

Best of and how to reach Meteora

The Question:

What is the best way to get to Meteora from Volos and see the best sights?We will be arriving by ferry from Skopelos around 10.00 and can return as late as 19.30.What are the best bits to see?

The Answer:

The best way to reach Meteora is to rent a car and drive to Kalampaka and then up to the area of Meteora, so that you can move around and explore as much as you can. On the other hand, you can also take the suburban bus KTEL from Volos to Kalampaka and then arrange either a guided visit with a travel agency of Kalampaka or a visit by yourself.
Meteora has 24 amazing monasteries, from which only the 6 are inhabited today. The most famous one, is the one called "Megalo Meteoro" where the Holy Church of "Metamorfosi tou Sotiros" is located. It is the highest monastery of all (613m high) and you need to walk 300 steps up in order to visit it. The monastery offers a very rich library in ecclesiastical texts, some of them dated in the Byzantine period and considered as treasures of the Orthodox religion. Moreover, you can admire may christian hand-made by the monks artefacts, such as Crosses made by carved wood and many more. The astonishing view from the monastery of Agios Stefanos, which is a female monastery, maked it worth-visiting as well as the fact that the sacred body of Saint Charalampos which is also considered as a source of wonders, is kept there. The best view ever though, can be admired from the monastery of Roussanou and more specifically from the position "Psaropetra", where the valley of Thessalia is presented in all of its splendour.
Meteora are considered as a part of the worlwide cultural inheritage of UNESCO since major orthodox treasures are kept there since the early centuries of Christianity.
Hope I have helped!

-Stavros

What is a Dago?

The Question:

what is a dago?

The Answer:

Hey!
If by "Dago" you mean the food "Dako", then it is a traditional type of salad from the island of Crete made by fresh tomatoes, a white type of cheese "myzithra" or sometimes "feta", olives, olive oil, salt, pepper and oregano, all placed on slightly wet rusk.

-Stavros

Buses from Thessaloniki to Chalkidiki

The Question:

Hi Stavros,
I'll arrive on 16th sturday august at Salonicco airport. I need to know if there's a bus for Sarti "Halkidiki", and how far is the bus station to the airport.Could you please give me the bus timetable and prices?
Thaks a lot for your help
Marco Italy

The Answer:

Hi Marco!
All buses from Thessaloniki to Chalkidiki start from the main bus station KTEL in Thessaloniki town. To reach this station you just have to pick up the bus from the airport no 78, which will take you in approximately 45 minutes there. Due to the fact that the bus schedules constantly change it is better to call them to fnd out regarding timetables and prices at 0030 2310 500111.
I hope I have helped!

-Stavros

Hotels in the Athens International Airport Area

The Question:

Hi Stavros,
Thanks for the info on the Thessaloniki airport bus. Here's another question. Are there any hotels near to Athens airport, apart from the expensive Sofitel and Holiday Inn?
Thanks again
Graham

The Answer:

Hello Graham!
Besides those two hotels that you have mentioned, there are no other hotels in the airport area. The closest regions to the airport, where you will find hotels to stay in, are Nea Makri and Rafina. These are approximately 20 minutes away from the airport by car. If you wish to check available hotels, take a look at www.fantasticgreece.com!

-Stavros

Closest International Airport to Milina

The Question:

closest airport International to Milina

The Answer:

Hello,
The closest International airport to Milina is the Thessaloniki International Airport "Macedonia".

-Stavros

From Igoumenitsa to Thessaloniki by Bus

The Question:

is there a regular bus from igoumenitsa to thessaloniki- how many per day, how long, and how much?!!!!
Thanks for your help.
ruth

The Answer:

Hello Ruth!
There is bus connection between Thessaloniki and Igoumenitsa, but since these schedules are subject to change there is no official timetable. The distance to Igoumenitsa is 428km and by bus it will take you almost 6 hours depending the stops that the bus will make during the drive. Ticket cost for one-way won't exceed the amount of 30 euros. In case you want to learn more about the timetables, it is advisable to call the central suburban bus station in Thessaloniki at 0030 2310 500111.

-Stavros

Ferry connection between Thessaloniki and Volos

The Question:

Hi there,
is there a ferry from Thessaloniki to Volos and if is, can you please send me a link with timetable and prices?
thanks

The Answer:

Hey!
Unfortunately, there is no ferry connection between Thessaloniki and Volos!

-Stavros

From Crete to Athens through the Cyclades

The Question:

What's the best way to get from Crete to Athens through the Cyclades?
Thanks ... Thea

The Answer:

Hello Thea!
I think the best way is to catch the ferry from Heraklion on Crete and travel to Santorini and from there catch the next ferry or plane to Athens!
It is the shortest route, with flying dolphin vessels and you will also get to see Santorini which is an amazing island!

-Stavros

Timetable and Route Map of Bus Line no.78 from Thessaloniki Airport

The Question:

Hi Stavros,
Is there a timetable or schedule showing bus stops along the number 78 route from Thessaloniki Airport to the station?
Thanks Graham

The Answer:

Hey Graham!
To check the map with the stops of the bus no 78 from the airport of Thessaloniki click on the following url:
http://www.oasth.gr/routes/route_bl.php?routeb=78bs.jpg

The check the timetables click on:
http://www.oasth.gr/routes/route_eng.php?route_num=78&ml=12&sdc=-2

I hope this will help you out!

-Stavros

The Melissa Gorge in Lefkada island

The Question:

Geia sas kurie Stavro
Also this year I will visit Lefkada. What I would like to know is the following:Where is the entrance to the Melissa gorge situated, how long is the gorge and where is the exit? I cannot trace the info on the net or on a map. As we walk distances and locations are important to avoid taking wrong roads.
Your reply will highly be appreciated,
me hairetismous,
ellinas

The Answer:

Geia sas!
What a nice question!
So the Melissa gorge in Lefkada is a beautiful gorge 2km long and it will take you almost 1 hour to cross it. Its exit is in the area of "Kako Lagkadi". To find the entrance of the gorge follow the instructions:
As soon as you have left the city of Lefkada, follow the regional road to the "Sfakioton Municipality". After a 6km drive you will come across a memorial the municipality has built. There you turn right into an asphalt built road and drive another 3km. There you turn right again and follow a non-asphalt road. 2km later you will see the entrance to the gorge as well as the cave Spilia and a fountain to drink some water!
Hope you will have a nice time at Lefkada!

-Stavros

How long do I need from Thessaloniki airport to Volos?

The Question:

Hi Stavros,
My partner and I are arriving at Thessaloniki airport at 13.45 on Sunday 31st August. We want to try and get to Skopelos that night. I think we need to take a bus or train to Volos and then catch a boat. Is this right and will it be possible to do it that day? Could you advise on timings and connections?
Otherwise, I guess we will need to stay in Volos. Could you suggest anywhere?
Thanks,Jamie

The Answer:

Hey Jamie!
First of all, the distance between Thessaloniki and Volos is 213km and by bus it is approximately 3hours. The last ferry from Volos to Skopelos is at 19.30 and you need to be there at least half an hour in advance. As a result the last bus from Thessaloniki you can catch is at 16.00, but you will be in a tight schedule. Keep in mind that you need to calculate more time if the flight is delayed, or you spend much time waiting for your luggage plus the bus from the airport to the city center and the main suburban bus station. So it is better to decide at the time of your arrival if you will be able to make it or not, since many things are not in your hands. If you want to find out about the exact timetables of the buses, please call at 0030 2310 500111.
You can check for hotels at www.fantasticgreece.com, although during these days you will be able to find a hotel to stay without having booked it in advance. You can also in Thessaloniki, where there are more available hotels and from different categories.
Hope this is useful for you!

-Stavros

Bus Schedule from Athens to Agios Constantinos in September

The Question:

I would like to know the bus schedule for travel on the morning of 4 September 2008 from Athens (Kaningos Square) to Agios Constantinos. I would like to arrive at Agios Constantinos in time to board the Flying Dolphins ferry that leaves Agios Constantinos at 1030 and arrives in Alonissos about 1430.
Thank you.

The Answer:

Hello!
Since the bus schedules for September 2008 have not been announced yet, I can not provide you with the relevant information. But there is a chance that at the information desk from the suburban buses station KTEL in Liosion, they will be able to answer your question. To reach them, dial 0030 210 8317109.
Hope I have helped!

-Stavros

Distance from Igoumenitsa to Lefkada

The Question:

What is the distance from Igoumenitsa to Lefkada?Also is there a way to go from Corfu directly to Lefkada?

The Answer:

Hello!
The distance between Igoumenitsa and Lefkada is approximately 238km and the duration of the drive almost 3h. Unfortunately there is no ferry connection between Lefkada and Corfu, so the only option is to go from the mainland!

-Stavros

From Bodrum to Santorini

The Question:

Round trip bodrom to santorini.

The Answer:

Hello,
There are no ferries departing from Bodrum to Santorini island. There are only ferry connections to the greek islands of Rhodes and Kos. From these two islands you can take another ferry to take you to Santorini. Ferry departures are not daily though.
To check greek ferry itineraries visit www.fantasticgreece.com/boats. For the ferry connection between Turkey and Greece, there is no official website, so you need to contact the local port authorities to find out regarding the ferry schedules.

-Stavros

Ticket cost and Journey time from Piraeus port to Mytilene

The Question:

Thank you for your quick reply.
Can you tell me how much it would cost to go from athens to mytileni and how long it takes.
Regards

The Answer:

Hello!
There are two types of ferries departing to Mytilene. These are the highspeed ferries that arrive at Mytilene in 8.5 hours and the conventional ferries that arrive in 12 hours. Tickets for the highspeed ferries start from 50euros per person and for the conventional ferry from 29 euros per person. If you want to check availability, different fare types and even book your ferry tickets you can visit www.fantasticgreece.com/boats!

-Stavros

Taxi or Car from Volos airport to Agios Ioannis?

The Question:

Dear Stavros
If we arrive by air at Volos airport on a Friday evening, how much would a taxi to Agios Ioannis cost, do you think?Or should we just hire a little car for thejourney?
Thank you!
John Mullaly

The Answer:

Hello John!
Since you arrive at a small, local airport, such as the airport of Volos, there is no official information on the taxi transfer cost to Agios Ioannis. The majority of taxis waiting at the airport will be owned by individuals who will charge differently. It would be a good idea if you could make a little research on the web to check prices if renting a car and by arriving at the Volos airport comparing those prices with the prices that you will be told by the taxi drivers.
You can check prices for car rentals in Greece at www.fantasticgreece.com/cars.

-Stavros

From Istanbul to Thessaloniki by train

The Question:

Thanks very much, Stavros. I think I will take the ferry from Volos.
If you have time to answer another question, I'd really appreciate it: Do you know about the trains from Istanbul to Thessaloniki? I know there is a night sleeper train, but I'm travelling alone, and apparently the price for a sleeping compartment is around 85 euros for one person. I've read on the internet that there is a day train as well, but I can't find any official information on it. Do you know if it actually exists?
Thanks alot. Every country should have a blogger like you to make things easier for travellers. It's a great service.
Joe

The Answer:

Hey Joe and thank you for all your kind words!
Regarding the day train from Istanbul to Thessaloniki, as far as I know it departs at 08.30 a.m. and arrives in Thessaloniki at 23.50. It makes several stops and the first class tickets cost 50euros. This train line used to be IC91. But since the train schedules change constantly, ti would be better to call the greek central train station to confirm this itinerary. The phone number is 0030 210 5240601.
Hope this has helped...

-Stavros

Ferry connection between Skiathos and Mytilene (Lesvos)

The Question:

Hi Stavros,
I want to go by ferry from Skiathos to Mytilene (lesvos)Can it be done? What ferries and connections will I need?
Thank you

The Answer:

Hey!
There is no ferry connection between Skiathos and Mytilene (Lesvos). You need to depart from the port of Piraeus in Athens in order to reach Mytilene (Lesvos). To reach the port of Athens you can take a suburban bus KTEL from either Volos or Agios Konstantinos (ports where the ferry from Skiathos arrives).

-Stavros

How long is it from Athens International Airport to Agios Konstantinos port

The Question:

Hi Stavros:
How long is the bus trip from Athens to Agios Konstantinos (Sept 4)? Our flight arrives in Athens at 14:00 and the ferry to Skiathos is at 19:00. Do we need to be there an hour ahead of departure?Which would be faster, the bus or taxi shuttle from Athens to Agios K?
Regards,
M. Tom

The Answer:

Hello Tom!
You don't need to be an hour prior departure for the ferry. Even 15 minutes is enough. The bus from Athens Liosion station (city center) to Agios Konstantinos will take you approximately 2 to 2,5 hours but you need to also consider the time from the airport to the Liosion bus station which is 1 hour and 15 minutes if you take public means of transportation. It is certainly much faster if you take a taxi to Agios Konstantinos but it also more expensive.

-Stavros

From Istanbul to Alonissos island

The Question:

Hi Stavros,
What a great website you have! Nice picture, too. In a week or so I will need to get from Istanbul to Alonissos by bus/train and ferry. What\'s the best way to get from Istanbul into Greece (Kavala or Thessaloniki), and also, do you think it\'s better/cheaper to take ferries all the way from Thessaloniki to Alonissos, or would a bus to Volos and then a ferry be better? Hope you can answer my question.
Thanks,
Joe Lennon

The Answer:

Hey Joe!
Thank you for all your kind words!
A bus or train from Istanbul to Thessaloniki or Kavala will take you almost the same time. So it is more a matter of how you prefer to be travelling. From Kavala there are no ferry connections to Alonissos, so it is better to get to Thessaloniki from the start. From Thessaloniki port there is a ferry by the ferry company GA ferries which leaves to Alonissos but it doesn't depart daily. Tickets cost approximately 33 euros. On the other hand, flying dolphins as well as conventional ferries depart from Volos' port daily. Tickets cost almost 40 euros. So I would recommend leaving from Volos to Alonissos especially if your times and dates are not flexible and because the ferries departing from there are much newer and comfortable. To get to Volos all you need is to continue by train or take a suburban bus KTEL to the city!

-Stavros

Travelling to Eretria in Evia

The Question:

Dear Stavros,
What is the easiest and best way to get from Athens Airport to Eretria on Evvia? I arrive in the late afternoon, until how late do the ferries go? On which website do i find information on buses and ferries in Greece (not only for Evvia).
Thanx a lot, Stavros!
Greetz from Brussels!
A.

The Answer:

Hello there!
To reach Eretria in Evia it is better to either rent a car from the Athens International Airport or take the suburban bus KTEL from the Liosion station. There are no ferries going to Eretria from Athens and since it is very close to Chalkida (the capital of Evia) it is much quicker to reach it like mentioned above. A website where you can find all scheduled ferry itineraries is www.fantasticgreece.com.

-Stavros

From Rhodes to Mykonos and Santorini by ferry

The Question:

Hello,
We are arriving Rhodes on the 17th of August 2008 late evening and we are heading for Santorini or Mykonos. What ferries departure from Rhodes late night or the next day?Thanx! Best Regards!

The Answer:

Hello!
From Rhodes to Santorini or Mykonos there are mainly local ferries departing almost daily. So it is better as soon as you arrive in Rhodes to look at the port for their offices and ask specifically about times and prices. Nevertheless, the main ferry company departing to Santorini or Mykonos is Sky Express and also Lane Lines.

-Stavros

Travelling from Bari to Igoumenitsa, Lefkada and Athens

The Question:

Hello
Could you please tell me how I would get from Bari, Italy to Igoumenitsa then to Lefkada and finally onto Athens?
thank you

The Answer:

Ferries depart daily from Bari in Italy that arrive in Igoumenitsa. Some of the ferry companies are Blue Star ferries, Agoudimos lines and Ventouris lines. From there you need to rent a car and drive approximately 3 hours to the island of Lefkada. Lefkada is connected to the mainland of Greece by a bridge so you don't need to take another ferry. From Lefkada to Athens you can either drive or take a suburban bus (KTEL).

-Stavros

Buses from Athens to Agios Constantinos

The Question:

Sometimes traveling in Greece really is a puzzle. Since the ktel.org site is down there isn´t a chance to get any information about busses leaving from Terminal B (Kifissou) to Agios Constantinos. Is there? Is it possible to get these informations from somewhere else? I am looking for the bus schedule for august/september 2008.
Thanks
Eddi

The Answer:

Hello Eddi!
This is unfortunately true... But I will try to help as much as I can!
First of all, buses departing to Agios Constantinos leave from the suburban bus station KTEL Liosion which is at 260 Liosion str. in the area of Kato Patissia. Besides that, unfortunately bus schedules are not published anywhere officialy since they change quite often. To find out the scheduled bus itineraries though, you can call at the information desk of Liosion Suburban Bus Station (0030 210 8317109) and ask specifically about the times and prices.

-Stavros

Late night buses from Thessaloniki to Volos

The Question:

how late do the bus companies run at night?i arrive in thessanoliki at ten pm and would like to try to get to volos that night, possible?
cheerz!

The Answer:

Hello!
This depends on the specific bus itinerary and the day of your trip. Usually there are scheduled bus itineraries until late at night and in the very early morning e.g. at 01.00a.m. To be sure regarding the bus schedules to Volos, and since these are subject to change anytime, it is better to call the bus company KTEL of Thessaloniki and ask them. The phone number is 0030 2310 500111.

-Stavros

From Athens to Halkidiki and Skiathos by car

The Question:

Hi there,
Firstly we fly into Athens from South Africa and would like to get to Halkidiki. Is it cheaper to hire a car and if so, how long to drive? 4 of us. Otherwise what is the bus like?Secondly after Halkidiki we would like to go to Skiathos, which port is closestto travel on the Dolphin, if possible and what is the price?
Thanks so much!
Julie

The Answer:

Renting a car in Greece is not that expensive depending on the length of your stay and the persons travelling with it. Since you are 4 people and plan to travel a lot around as I can realise, then I would recommend you to rent a car. Buses and trains will take you a lot of time...
The drive from Athens to Chalkidiki is approximately 6 hours depending on the exact place in Chalkidiki you are aiming at. From there, travelling to Skiathos is possible from either Thessaloniki port of from the port of Volos. From the Thessaloniki port the ferry company that has scheduled ferry itineraries to Skiathos is GA ferries but there is no daily connection to the island. From the port of Volos (which is a 2 hour drive) there are dolphins departing to the island of Skiathos which do not though accept cars. There are conventional ferries of course which will allow you to take the car with you. The tickets from Thessaloniki cost 20euros whereas the tickets with a dolphin from Volos cost 33 euros. You can check prices, availability and schedules at www.fantasticgreece.com!
Hope this is useful!

-Stavros

Staying in Thessaloniki and travelling to Igoumenitsa

The Question:

Hello Hello!
We 3 girls travelling in greece and we will arrive in thessaloniki the 15th of august..we are looking for a nice relaxing place to stay near the beach - hopefully not too crowdy. We have a car and we can move around do you have any suggestions?
Sorry another question..I need to go back in Italy and I was think to take the bus/train to Igoumeniza and then the ferry to bari..do you think it\'s feasable? I have time and it\'s mine no flight trip
:)thanks, Giovanna

The Answer:

Hello to you too!
Thessaloniki is a beautiful city situated by the seaside where plenty of hotels are available to stay in. If you do not wish to stay in the city, then the area of Chalkidiki would be a fine idea with numerous beaches to choose from. To check for hotels consult the greek website www.fantasticgreece.com.
Regarding your second question, if you take the bus from Thessaloniki to Igoumenitsa it is approximately 5,5 hours and it is better than taking the train which stops too many times and will make your trip longer.
Hope I have helped!

-Stavros