Hellenic Train Passenger Rail

Hellenic Train’s current passenger map is smaller than Greece’s physical railway map. Trains run on the Athens to Thessaloniki main line, the Athens and Thessaloniki regional networks, the modern Athens suburban lines, the Kiato to Aigio extension, Patras suburban rail, and a few short tourist routes. Other corridors may be sold as Hellenic Train journeys but operated partly or entirely by bus.

Tickets and payment

Intercity and most regional journeys need a Hellenic Train ticket. Buy through the website or app, at an open station office, or on board where the rules allow it. Reserved Intercity trains can sell out, and boarding without a valid ticket can add a €10 charge when a sales point was available.

The Athens urban zone uses different rules. Supported bank cards and mobile wallets can be tapped at suburban railway gates under the same €1.20 urban fare used by metro, tram, and bus. Trips beyond the OASA zone require the correct Hellenic Train product. Patras has a separate onboard contactless purchase system.

Trains and accessibility

Rolling stock varies sharply. Athens to Thessaloniki Intercity trains use reserved long-distance equipment with air-conditioning and onboard toilets. Suburban corridors mostly use electric multiple units, while regional and heritage routes may use diesel railcars, locomotive-hauled coaches, or open heritage vehicles. The first of 23 new Coradia Stream trains is scheduled for 2027, so it should not be described as current fleet.

Wheelchair spaces are available on specified Athens to Thessaloniki trains, and portable ramps are used on the Athens suburban, Kiato to Aigio, Patras, and Katakolo to Olympia lines. Station platforms and staffing remain uneven. Arrange assistance at least 24 hours ahead for a journey where boarding support is essential.

Check Hellenic Train’s live notices before departure. Infrastructure work, weather damage, and single-line operation continue to produce delays and short-notice platform changes.