Trains from Athens

Overview

Athens is served by two rail services: the Proastiakos suburban rail network and Hellenic Train (formerly TrainOSE) intercity services. Both depart from Athens' main rail station, Larissa Station, and from suburban stations along the network.

Larissa Station (Athens Central)

Larissa Station is the main intercity rail station in Athens, located in the Metaxourgeio neighborhood northwest of the city center.

Accessibility

• The station has undergone renovations and has elevator access to platforms
• The main entrance area is at street level and accessible
• Accessible restrooms are available
• Wheelchair boarding requires staff assistance with a portable ramp at the platform edge
• Metro connection: Larissa Station has its own Metro station on Line 2 (Red Line), which has an elevator

Getting There

• Metro: Larissa Station (Line 2). Fully accessible with elevator.
• Taxi: About 10 minutes from Syntagma Square depending on traffic.

Proastiakos (Suburban Rail)

The Proastiakos connects Athens Airport to the western suburbs and Peloponnese (Kiato line). Key stops include the airport, Doukissis Plakentias (interchange with Metro Line 3), Neratziotissa, and Larissa Station.

Accessibility

• The airport station is shared with Metro Line 3 and fully accessible
• Major stations (Doukissis Plakentias, Neratziotissa, Larissa) have elevator access
• Trains have designated wheelchair spaces
• Smaller suburban stations may have limited accessibility. Check specific stations before traveling.
• Boarding assistance with a portable ramp is available at major stations. Request in advance.

Hellenic Train (Intercity)

Hellenic Train operates intercity services, including the Athens-Thessaloniki route (the most popular intercity route in Greece).

Wheelchair Travel

• Intercity trains have designated wheelchair spaces in specific carriages
• Book wheelchair spaces in advance by contacting Hellenic Train customer service
• Platform boarding requires staff assistance with a portable ramp
• Contact Hellenic Train at least 24 hours before departure to arrange platform help

Key Routes from Athens

• Athens to Thessaloniki: Approximately 4 to 5 hours. The main intercity route.
• Athens to Kalambaka (Meteora): For the spectacular cliff-top monasteries
• Athens to Kiato/Patras: Via Proastiakos and connecting services

Booking Tips

• Book wheelchair spaces when purchasing your ticket. Online booking at hellenictrain.gr may not always show wheelchair options. Call customer service for assistance.
• Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure to allow time for staff to set up the portable ramp.
• If traveling to the airport by Proastiakos, allow extra time for potential delays and platform changes.
• Intercity train tickets can be significantly cheaper when booked in advance online.

Accessibility Limitations

• Not all platforms at Larissa Station are at the same height as the train floor. The portable ramp bridges this gap, but it requires staff to be present.
• Some smaller stations along intercity routes may not have accessible platforms. Confirm accessibility at both your departure and arrival stations.
• The portable ramp deployment depends on staff availability. Late-night or early-morning trains may have fewer staff.