Thessaloniki-Istanbul by train

The Question:

What is the cost of train travel from thessaloniki to istanbul and do we need a visa


The Answer:

Hello!

I have found for you that there is a OSE train departing every day at 19:38 from Thessaloniki main train station. The trip lasts about 12 hours and you can book a seat/bed by calling at 1110. Prices begin from 60 E and go up to 94 E depending whether you share the same space with other persons or not. For the VISA I am not sure, I suggest you asking directly on the phone.

Regards,

-Stavros

Igoumenitsa-Thessaloniki by Bus

The Question:

I should go from Igoumenitsa to Thessaloniki, how do I get there, is there any bus or train?
could you give me the timetable?
thank you


The Answer:

Hello,

The best solution is the Ktel bus Igoumenitsa-Thessaloniki at 10.30 am. The trip lasts 6 hours and the total cost is 37 E.

Hope this was helpful!

-Stavros

Bus from Thessaloniki going to Bulgary

The Question:

Dear Sir,
Bus timetable please from Thessaloniki Bus station to Bansko ( near Razlog ) in Bulgaria on Friday 13th Feb at 2pm please.
Yours faithfully,
Tim


The Answer:

Hello Tim,

for the time being due to farmers' protest against government's regulations Promahonas area is blocked. So, this affects the scheduled route Thessaloniki-Sofia at 17.00 pm every day and cannot be realized. From KTEL bus station in Thessaloniki there are no other routes towards Bansko or Razlog. For more details call 0030 2310 595446. This is a question concerning destination outside Greece so I am not that expert.

Sorry not to be able to help you more.

-Stavros

Bus connection from Thessaloniki to Pogradec in Albania

The Question:

Hello,
is there a bus connection from Thessaloniki to Pogradec in Albania on 1st or 2nd August and back on 9th August?Or a bus connection to a town near Pogradec?
Thank you.
Best Regards,
Iveta


The Answer:

Hi Iveta!

Well there is a regular bus line everyday at 20.30 from Thessaloniki to Korce City. From there you can continue to Pogradec, as it is the next stop. The whole travel plan is Korce, Pogradec, Prrenjas, Librazhd, Elbasan, Tirana, Lac, Lezhe, Shkodra. The departure point is at 194 Giannitson str., station "Makedonia". Ask more at the respective bus station at Thessaloniki (tel. number 2310-536.260).

I hope this has been helpful.

-Stavros

Thessaloniki Volos by train

The Question:

Hello again Stavros..... How much does it cost by train to Volos from Thessaloniki and how close to airport is the station and how easy is the trip.

Best regards
Chris

The Answer:

Hi Chris!
By train it is cheaper, but you change trains. The first part Thessaloniki-Larissa is being operated by Proastiakos type of new trains and the second Larissa-Volos by the OSE traditional old line. The total cost is 12,10 one way and 19,40 round trip. You can call 1110, the automated call centre of OSE trains, to find out the timetable. There are many routes for example at 09:45, 12:42, 14:10, 16.00. You will arrive in Larissa 90 minutes later and you will leave again in about 30-40 minutes. The second part of your trip lasts 50 minutes.
The train station is located in the centre of Thessaloniki, not close to the airport. But there are always busses and taxis.

Regards,

-Stavros

Thessaloniki-Volos-Thessaloniki Ktel route

The Question:

Hi Stavros........
What is the cost of an adult return ticket from Thessaloniki airport to Volos and would we have to book in advance or buy the tickets on the day.
Regards
Chris Norman


The Answer:

Hello there,

I assume you mean KTEL bus ticket. Well, the price Thessaloniki-Volos-Thessaloniki is 29,50 E and there are routes from Thessaloniki on 09.00 - 11.00 - 13.00 - 15.15 - 17.00 - 19.15 - 21.15 - 23.00. You don't have to book in advance your ticket, just call 0030 2310 595408 to check availability and plan to arrive there at least 30 minues before the departure to get a ticket.
From the airport of Thessaloniki to the KTEL bus station the taxi will cost you about 40 E or you can get the public transportation.

I hope this has been useful to you!

-Stavros

Igoumenitsa-Ioannina-Thessaloniki

The Question:

Dear Stavros
Thank you for answering my question, but it leads to another. If the only bus from Igoumentisa to Thessaloniki leaves at 10:30am, I will not be able to connect with it from the ferry from Corfu that arrives at 12:25pm. Is it possible to make a connection by going from Igoumentisa to Ioannina by bus? I understand Ioannina had (old schedule) buses for Thessaloniki that left at 15:00 and 1900 and 2230 hrs. -- the last would arrive too late for me to use a hotel for that night.
Thank you for helping me with information I cannot get elsewhere.
Robert Brand


The Answer:

Hello again Robert,

Thanks for the support!

Well you can take the bus from Igoumenitsa towards Ioannina for the first part of your trip and then to continue with a second bus to reach Thessaloniki finally. Igoumenitsa-Ioannina lasts only 90 minutes and there are these routes at 14.30 and 16.45 that are convenient for your arrival from Corfu. From Ioannina station there is another route at 18.30 heading to Thessaloniki so you will just have to change busses! Ioannina's station tel. number is 0030 26510-26286 if you want to call and double check it.

Always glad to help! Cheers!

-Stavros

Ktel connection Igoumenitsa-Thessaloniki

The Question:

I plsn to take the ferry from Corfu to Igoumenitsa on Thursday March 26 arriving at 12:15pm (1215 hrs). I understand I can make a bus connection through Ioannina to Thessaloniki. What sort of time schedule am I likely to encounter? Can I book a hotel in Thessaloniki for the night? And where will the bus stop in relation to hotels??
Thank you.


The Answer:

Hello,

The distance between Igoumentisa and Thessaloniki is 360 km. The KTEL bus route is only one per day at 10.30 am and it costs 36 euros. It will take you 6 hours and the telephone number of the station is 0030 26650-22309.
About the hotels, of course you can book a hotel for one night. You will find some choices if you search online. I provide you a hotels' search result here from a website I trust. By reading the descriptions of the hotels you will be able to spot the ones near bus stations.

Regards,

-Stavros

Distance between Istanbul to Igoumenitsa

The Question:

I would like to learn the poad Distance between Istanbul to Igoumenitsa??


The Aswer:

Hello,

The completion of the Egnatia Odos highway, linking Igoumenitsa with İstanbul, will allow you to travel from the one point to another in 15 hours (if you plan 2-3 short stops). At viamichelin.com you can find the exact route with all the points of interest you have to pay attention to. The total distance Istanbul-Igoumenitsa is 1029 km.
If you don't have your own car, you can take the bus from Istanbul towards Thessaloniki that leaves once a day from Büyük Otogar. Then you simply change bus to Igoumenitsa. It is being realized one route per day departing at 13.00, so you should plan arriving from Istanbul ontime. The total ticket cost for this schedule is about 80 euros.

Enjoy your tip!

-Stavros

Istanbul to Igoumenitsa via Thessaloniki and then ferry to Brindisi

The Question:

Hi Stavros,I am planning to travel from Istanbul to Igoumenitsa via Thessaloniki by bus in late March 2009 and then catch a ferry to Brindisi (Italy).Please would you give me an idea of travel times, cost and if I can get a ferry from Igoumenitsa to Brindisi in late March 2009.
Thank You.
Regards Bob.

The Answer:

Hey Bob!

Well from Istanbul you can catch the bus heading to Thessaloniki. The cost one way is about 45 E and the trip lasts 12 hours with one stop at Alexandroupolis. The bus from Istanbul towards Thessaloniki leaves once a day from Büyük Otogar (Main Bus Terminal) and you can contact this terminal to find information on timetables.
Then from Thessaloniki you change buses to Igoumenitsa. It is being realized one route per day departing at 13.00 so you should plan arriving from Istanbul ontime. The cost with KTEL bus between Thessaloniki and Igoumenitsa is 37 E and you will arrive at Igoumenitsa 5 hours later.
To get to Brindisi there is ferry connection from Igoumenitsa and the trip lasts 7 hours. For timetable you should contant the ferry companies directly as they haven't announced online schedule for spring 2009 yet. The cost is between 40 and 140 euros depending on the seat you will choose (deck, external cambine, etc).

Hope I helped you!

-Stavros

Igoumenitsa to Halkidiki-Kassandra

The Question:

Stavros please help?Am coming to greece on Honeymoon via Venice... am planning to take my new bride to The Sani Beach Resort Near Thessaloniki. so my question is this.. we care thinking getting a ferry from Venice to IGOUMENITSA? and then overland to the hotel??Is this the best option or can we do a better option? Ideally ferry all the way..? Hiring a car is not wat we want to do,and i would be one way?thank u please A

The Answer:

Hello!
Unfortunatelly there is not a ferry connection Igoumenitsa-Thessaloniki.
If you don't prefer rending a car the only solution I can see is getting the bus.
There is a bus everyday 10.30 in the morning from Igoumenitsa heading to Thessaloniki. The trip lasts about 5 hours and then you will have to change bus (leaving on 18.00 and 20.00). This extra 1.5 hour trip with the second bus from Thessaloniki to Halkidiki-Kassandra (where The Sani Beach Resort is located) is the best part so don't worry. You will enjoy the scenic!

Hope I helped!

-Stavros

Coach from Volos to Thessaloniki

The Question:

I need to book a coach from volto Thessaloniki but i can only find details in greek on the KTEL site. Help!


The Answer:

Hello!
I just found the KTEL coach timetable for you:
VOLOS - THESSALONIKI Weekdays & Saturday 04:30, 06:00, 08:00, 10:00, 12:15, 14:00, 16:15, 18:15, 20:30. Sunday 06:00, 08:00, 10:00, 12:15, 14:00, 16:15, 18:15, 20:30.
You can call on (0030) 2421033254 or the general KTEL line 14505 for info and booking.
Enjoy your trip!

-Stavros

Is there a Direct Bus line Thessaloniki-Patras?

The Question:

is there direct bus thessaloniki-patra and what time???



The Answer:

Hello!
Unfortunatelly there is not a direct line but the connection is really simple.
From Thessaloniki you will have to travel to Athens and from there to change bus to Patras. Busses are really frequent (every 1 - 1,5 hour) starting from 7 am and ending on 24 pm. You can find the timetable for the first part Thessaloniki - Athens at Ktel Thessalonikis official website Price is 35 E per person one way and the trip lasts 6 hours.
As soon as you get to Athens you will have to change bus to Kifissos Bus Station. Busses to Patras depart every 30-60 minutes from the gate under the region name Ahaia (N. Αχαιας). You will be in Patras 3 hours later. For more information about Athens-Patras you can call the station at +302105136185.
Hope I have helped!

-Stavros

From Thessaloniki to Igoumenitsa

The Question:

How can I get by train or bus from Thessaloniki to Igoumenitsa?


The Answer:

Hello!
There is no train connection between Thessaloniki and Igoumenitsa, but you can take the suburban bus KTEL. To find out more regarding departure times you can contact their call center at +30 2310 500111.

-Stavros

From Piraeus port to Thessaloniki by Train

The Question:

Hi Stavros,
are there trains going from Pireaus Port to Thessaloniki or do I have to go to Athens to catch the bus to Thessaloniki?


The Answer:

Hello!
There are trains leaving from Athens to Thessaloniki. From the port of Piraeus you can either take the metro or the suburban railway in order to reach the main train station Larissis from where you will switch trains and take the one to Thessaloniki. If you choose to go by metro to the Larissis trains station, then you need to take the green line from Piraeus and then by changing to the red line stop at "Larissis station". If you prefer to take the suburban railway, then you will only need to take one train until the "Stathmos Athinon" station which is actually a second name for the Larissis main train station. Be aware that the metro departs from a different station than the suburban railway! Both station though are very close to the port of Piraeus and within walking distance!
Hope this helps!

-Stavros

Train connection between Thessaloniki and Igoumenitsa

The Question:

hi Stavros,
do you have infomation about, train connection between thessaloniki & igoumenitsa? also Schedules and Prices?
thank you very much..


The Answer:

Hello!
There is no train connection between Thessaloniki and Igoumenitsa. The only way to reach both cities respectively is by using the suburban buses of KTEL or by car!

-Stavros

How far is Thessaloniki from Igoumenitsa?

The Question:

How far is from Thessaloniki to Gumenica? if you know please answer right away!!!i need that a lot!!! thanks!!! bye


The Answer:

Hey!
Thessaloniki is 415km from Igoumenitsa away. By car it will take you approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes to reach it.
Hope I this helps!

-Stavros

From Afissos to Volos and Thessaloniki by Bus

The Question:

We need to get from Afissos to Volos and then on to Thessaloniki airport on Friday 3rd October for a flight at aproximately 2pm. Can you advise if we can get a bus from Afissos to Volos and then on to Thessaloniki airport and if so, any idea of times and cost?
Thank you


The Answer:

Hello!
In order to reach Volos from Afissos, you can use the suburban bus KTEL. The first departure of the date that also suits your case is at 07.00 and the route to Volos is about 50 minutes. From Volos you can catch the 08.00 bus to Thessaloniki, and within 3 hours you will have arrived at your destination. From there you can either pick a taxi or take the city bus to the airport (distnace of 45 minutes) and you will have arrived in time for your flight at the Thessaloniki International airport.
Information regarding costs is actually not available online, and since it is subject to change at any time, it is better to contact the bus company KTEL so as to get informed.
Suburabn Bus KTEL in Volos: +30 24210 33254.
Hope I have helped you!

-Stavros

How to get from the train station of Thessaloniki to the suburban bus station KTEL

The Question:

Hi Stavros,
I will be traveling from Sofia to Thessaloniki by train and then to Asprovalta by bus. How do I get from the railway station to the bus terminal and can you give me a link to the Asprovalta buses timetable?
Thanks a lot!
Elena


The Answer:

Hello Elena!
To reach the suburban bus station KTEL which is located at 69 Monastiriou str. you can either take a taxi or the city bus. You can also ask at the train station in order to find out the exact bus line that will take you to the bus central station. There is no reliable information on bus schedules, because they change very often and without prior notice! The phone number of the suburban bus station KTEL is +30 2310 500111.

-Stavros

How do I transport my car from Igoumenitsa to Thessaloniki and Istanbul

The Question:

Hi,
I am landing in Igoumenitsa, would travel to Thesalloniki and then head to Istanbul. would rather send my vehicle by cargo (train, land, air) and travel myself across Greece than driving. Do you know any cargo company that would ship my vehicle from Igoumenitsa (or nearby cities)to either Thesalloniki or , better, to Istanbul Turkey? How long and how much it would take? Thanks in advance. Any details would be handy.
cheers


The Answer:

Hello!
I believe that there is no train connection between Igoumenitsa and Thessaloniki, and since there is no airport in Igoumenitsa, your only option is to transfer your car by using special trucks (transportation companies). One of them, which you can contact and learn more details regarding the trasportation is Karelias Group, which also has a website http://www.karelias-trans.gr/en/.
Hope I have helped!

-Stavros

Is Thessaloniki's tap water safe?

The Question:

Should I drink water from Thessaloniki aquaduct?


The Answer:

Hello!
Usually the people in Thessaloniki drink water from the tap, and it is considered safe. But it depends on your preferences to decide if you're going to drink bottled water or not.

-Stavros

Taxi Cost from Thessaloniki to Volos

The Question:

we are flying into Thessaloniki, landing 11.20am and need to get to Volos before 14.30 to get the last ferry to Alonissos.
The bus apparently takes 3 hours between Thessaloniki and Volos, so we\'re looking at taxis.
How much would it cost to get from the airport to the ferry port - we\'ve been quoted about 200euro?
Many thanks
M


The Answer:

Hello!
As far as I have checked the taxi tranfer from Thessaloniki to Volos will actually cost you around 200 euros, but once more this depends on the taxi company that you will choose or if you do not use a taxi company, the deal with the taxi driver that you will make.
Hope I have helped!

-Stavros

From Igoumenitsa to Thessaloniki by Car

The Question:

Could you please advice me how long it might take me to drive from igoumenitsa to thesalloniki? am landing in ogoumenitsa from italy with my vehicle. wonder how lon it migt take my time to drive to thesalloniki or to take a train cargo to there.
thanks!!!


The Answer:

Hello!
The drive from Igoumenitsa to Thessaloniki will take you approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes. It is a 428km drive from which 241km are on motorways.
Hope this will help you!

-Stavros

Last Bus from Thessaloniki to Asprovalta

The Question:

Hi, Stavros,
Can you tell me where in Thessaloniki I can catch a bus to Asprovalta? Do you know when is the last bus to Asprovalta (on Saturday)?
Many thanks!
Rali

The Answer:

Hello Rali!
The main suburban bus station KTEL is located at 69 Monastiriou str. in the Ampelokipi area in Thessaloniki. The last bus to Asprovalta departs at 22.15, according to the most recent timetable but it is always better to confirm bus schedules with the call center +30 2310 500111.
Hope I have helped!

-Stavros

From Thessaloniki to Igoumenitsa by Bus

The Question:

Kali mera Stavro,
please can you tell me a bus connection from Thessaloniki to Igoumenitsa? Where are the buses starting in Thessaloniki and what is the price? How long is the ride?
Echaristo para poli
Peter


The Answer:

Kali mera Peter!
In order to reach Igoumenitsa by bus, you will first have to reach Ioannina and then change bus with direction to Igoumenitsa. Buses depart from Thessaloniki to Igoumenitsa at 07.30, 11.00, 13.30, 15.00, 18.00 and 21.30, but since bus timetables are subject to change very easily, it is always better to confirm the timetable with the call center of the main bus station in Thessaloniki (+30 2310 500111).
The exact location of the suburban bus station KTEL in Thessaloniki can be seen in a map at http://www.ktel-thes.gr/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=26&Itemid=93&lang=el. Prices change and depend on the time of the year. The route from Thessaloniki to Igoumenitsa is approximately 5.5 hours.
Hope I helped!

-Stavros

From Evzoni to Igoumenitsa by Car

The Question:

Which way to chose from Evzoni to Igoumenitsa:
1. Evzoni (E75) (FYROM border) - Katerini - Larisa (E92) - Trikala - Kalampaka - Metsovo - Ioannina - Anatoli - Paramythia (E90) - Igoumenitsa
or
2. Evzoni (E75) - Chalastra (E90) - Ellisporitos - Kozani (E90) - Siatista - road to Kalampaka - Malakasio (E92) - Ioannina - then same to Igoumenitsa.
Whic one is better? Which one is shorter and how many km?
What is your suggestion?
thanks a lot!


The Answer:

Hello there!
I would recommend the second route, although the ideal option would be for you to start from Evzoni continue through E75 heading to Thessaloniki, then exit to Katerini, enter the E90 motorway, Egnatia Odos, pass by Grevena and Votonosi and finally take the exit to Igoumenitsa.
The distance is 395km from which 223km are on motorways and it will take you approximately 5 hours to reach your destination.
Hope I helped!

-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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Taking the train from Thessaloniki to Volos

The Question:

we arrive at thessaloniki airport at 01.45am and want to catch a train to volos what times do they run and what are the prices......
thanks janet

The Answer:

Hello there!
The train departures depend on your arrival date. But the last train to Volos is 01.51 and the next one departs at 07.24 in the morning. It is better though to call and confirm the times of departure because it is quite common for the train company to change scheduled itineraries. The phone number (since the information on the trains' website is not that reliable) is 0030 2310 517517.

-Stavros

Stavros in Thessaloniki Attractions

The Question:

We are going to Stavros which is east of Thessaloniki in September. Can anyone give any information on tavernas and the town of Stavros as we don't know what to expect.
Thanks

The Answer:

Hello!
The small town of Stavros is a beautiful tourist resort completely equipped with all modern facilities. It has grown quite popular to visitors from all over the world and has plenty to offer in terms of summer holidays.
All of the beaches in the area are marked with the blue flag, which means that they are officialy recognised by the state, as being beaches with clear water and properly equipped with sunbeds, ombrellas and showers. Besides that, the majority of beaches in the area offer sea sport facilities. One of the most attractive sites in the area is the 60 hectars plane forest by the beach where you can pic-nic, walk around etc. The town is also filled with plenty of beach bars under palm trees, tavernas and restaurants with different types of cuisine but the majority of them have specialty in fish and seafood. Since I haven't visited it myself, I can not recommed any specific ones but asking the locals as soon as you arrive, would be a fine idea!
Hope this has enlightened you!

-Stavros

How to reach Skopelos from Thessaloniki

The Question:

I\'m landing at Thessaloniki airport on 31 AUGUST and wish to go to Skopelos via volos.What are my options?

The Answer:

Hello!
In order to reach Skopelos you need to take either the bus or the train to Volos and from there the ferry to the island. By train it is approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes, whereas by bus it is almost 2.5 hours. Both means of transport are quite easy to reach from the airport of Thessaloniki, since there are regional buses connecting the airport with city center. In case you wish to rent a car, the route is 213km and in almost 2 hours you will have reached Volos.

-Stavros

From Thessaloniki to Alonissos by train or bus

The Question:

I need to know what is the best way to Alonissos from Thessaloniki. In particular I\'ll arrive on 3rd August (sunday) at Thessaloniki airport and I dont\' know where is and how far is the bus station to Volos. May be it is better to take train to Volos, what do you think about? Could you give me telephone number to ask for timetable (bus and train) and prices?
Thank you very much for helping me!
Paola from Italy

The Answer:

Hello!
So I hope I can help you...As soon as you arrive at the airport of Thessaloniki, you can take the regional bus number 78 which will take you straight to the suburban bus station KTEL of Thessaloniki. From the KTEL station of Thessaloniki, buses depart every 2 hours to Volos and the route is approximately 2.5 hours. In case you want to learn more, the phone number is 0030 2310 500111. Otherwise, you can take the train from Thessaloniki (OSE is the name of the train company) and in 2h and 40 minutes you will have reached Volos. The train station is in the city center of Thessaloniki and the phone number is 0030 2310 517517.

Greetings from Greece,
-Stavros

Thessaloniki to Skopelos by GA ferries

The Question:

Hello,my fiance and i are travelling from Thessaloniki to Skopelos on G.A. Ferries on 8/22/08. It appears that the ferry goes to Skopelos before Skiathos, is that true? Which of the two ports in skopelos does the ferry stop at? i was hoping it stops at Glossa port because that is where our hotel will be, Akrotiri hotel. We were planning on getting deck seating, do you think we will be ok for 8 hours? Also, is there a phone number to contact G.A. Ferries?

The Answer:

Hello there!
The GA Ferry Ntaliana stops firstly at Skiathos and then moves on to Skopelos. Unless the weather conditions do not allow it, the port at Skopelos that the ferry will stop is Agnontas. 8 hours on deck is not that horrible but it depends on your needs and how willing you are to bear this. You can always book air type seats. In case you want to book your ferry tickets and get further assistance you can check this website www.fantasticgreece.com or call them. You can reach GA ferries at 0030 210 4582640.

-Stavros

Bus Tickets from Volos to Thessaloniki

The Question:

Hi Stavros
I need to book 4 bus tickets from Volos to Thessaloniki to complete the return leg of our family trip to the Sporades.
I can\'t read greek and was hoping you could give me their booking office telephone number or the details of a website with an english version where I can buy tickets online?
Thanks
James

The Answer:

Hello James!
Thank you for sending me your question!
Unfortunately, it is not possible to book bus tickets online and there is no similar website. You will be able to find tickets since there are quite frequent itineraries from Volos to Thessaloniki. You can call at the KTEL Volos station (suburban bus central station in Volos) and ask them regarding the scheduled bus itineraries and prices. The phone number is 0030 24210 33254.
Hope I have helped!

-Stavros

How to reach Igoumenitsa from Thessaloniki by car

The Question:

Hello,I\'ll be driving from Thessaloniki to Igoumenitsa. (Actually, we start from Sofia in Bulgaria and our final destination is Corfu/Kerkyra).
1. Which way is best, north or south of mount Olympus?2. How much time should I calculate for the trip Saloniki-Igoumenitsa. (I\'m a careful driver.)
Thanks in advance,Tobi

The Answer:

Hello there!

The route from Thessaloniki to Igoumenitsa is approximately 452km.
To reach Igoumenitsa, follow the National Road to Larisa heading south (you will pass through the valley of Tempi and between the mountains Olympus and Kissavos). From Larisa, follow the road heading west to Ioannina and keep the course to the north until you reach Igoumenitsa.
Hope I have helped you!

-Stavros

Hydrofoils from Thessaloniki to Skopelos

The Question:

hello stavros,
are there any hydrofoils running between Thessaloniki and Skopelos this summer?

The Answer:

Hello to you too!
There are no hydrofoils running from Thessaloniki to Skopelos. The only ferry is the one of the ferry company GA ferries, named Ntaliana, which is a conventional ferry and takes approximately 9 hours to reach the island of Skopelos. To check ferry schedules and book ferry tickets, also visit www.fantasticgreece.com!
Thank you for contacting me!

-Stavros

Taxi Cost from Thessaloniki to Milina/ Volos

The Question:

Could you please tell me the approximate cost and journey time of a taxi from Thessaloniki Airport to Milina. I\'d also be grateful for information about other travel options, eg buses to Volos and Milina, and the timing and costs of these. (Previously I have flown to Volos but the flights from London have now become very expensive in August.)
Many thanks

The Answer:

Hello!
Taking a taxi from a city to reach another one in Greece can be quite expensive. Nevertheless it is worth asking a greek taxi company first, because sometimes it can be more convinient. Each taxi company has different prices for different routes. I asked the taxi company (www.thetaxi.gr) and they informed me that the cost from Thessaloniki to Milina is 250€ and lasts almost 3 hours. If you take the taxi until Volos, then the cost is 220€ and the journey time 2,5 hours.
Another travel option are the suburban buses KTEL. This kind of buses usually take longer to reach a destination, due to the frequent stops in other villages, but tickets are cheaper. More specifically, a bus ticket from Thessaloniki to Volos will not cost you more than 25 euros.
I hope I managed to help you!

-Stavros

Stavros Chalkidiki Lodging

The Question:

I would like to ask whwer i could find an apartman in Stavros near the beach, aproximative 50meters from the apartman?

The Answer:

That is a tricky question!
There are numerous regions under this name in Greece. For example there is Stavros near the island of Ithaca, Stavros in Chalkidiki near Thessaloniki and Stavros in Larissa.
If you are referring to Stavros in Chalkidiki, then there are not many lodgings listed through the internet for this specific region of Greece and the information you give to me is very limited. Nevertheless, you could check out the website http://www.fantasticgreece.com/ to see if there are any hotels or apartments available in this area. If you can't find anything on that area, then Thessaloniki and many smaller villages in Chalkidiki are also very beautiful and offer many kinds of accommodation!

-Stavros