How to Find Train Times for Greek Railways

The Greek Railways are collected under the umbrella of the Hellenic Railways Organization ("Organismos Sidirodromon Ellados," or OSE), which operates both freight and passenger trains. OSE offers a relaxing way to view the Greek countryside and travel between areas of the mainland and some of the islands. Follow these steps to start planning your trip.

Things You'll Need

• A computer with Internet access and a printer

Instructions

Find Time Tables for Greek Railways

1. Visit the OSE Web site (see Resources below). Call OSE for additional information at 011 ([phone] 9609.

2. Enter the origination location in the "From" box on the Web site, using the search icon to the right for a full listing of options.

3. Enter the destination location in the "To" box, also using the search icon.

4. Select either the "One way" trip or "with Return" button.

5. Click the "Search" button.

6. Click the train line link you want to see.

7. Review the train times listed.

8. Print the information you need.

Find Complete Time Tables for Greek Railways Listed by Station

1. Go to the OSE Web site (see Resources below).

2. Use the alphabetical navigation at the top to select the first letter of the station you want to retrieve.

3. Click the "EN" orange button in the upper-right-hand corner of the Web page if the language switches to Greek.

4. Review the train number, departure time and arrival times for that particular station.

5. Print any information you need to keep.

Tips & Warnings

• The Web site for train information is in Greek. However, there is a button in the upper-right-hand corner marked "EN" that will translate some of the pages to English.

• All phone numbers include the U.S. international prefix "011." When calling internationally outside the United States, substitute that "011" with "00."

• All country codes are within parentheses and begin with a "+" sign.

• Information on domestic departures from Athens and Thessaloniki are available by phone by dialing 011 ([phone] 9609.

• Greece's biggest industry is tourism and they treat tourists well.

• If you enjoy jewelry, visit some local artisan/jewelry shops in Greece for 22K gold works of art that are both beautiful and affordable.

• Many Greeks enjoy intense political discussions with Americans about US policies.

• Despite the low major crime rate for a city of this size, beware of pickpocket and small-time hustlers. Some cab drivers also charge tourists too much for fares.

• Keep your train ticket close. Anyone found to be traveling without a valid ticket will be forced to pay the ticket price plus a fine.

• Avoid Easter and August travel dates. These are the busiest and most expensive times to visit Greece.