Buses in Greece: Timetables, Tickets & Travel Tips

Buses are a convenient and affordable way to explore Greece. Traveling through Greece by bus allows you to reach major cities, idyllic islands, and picturesque mainland villages with ease.

This guide will cover key details about bus timetables, ticket options, and helpful travel tips for your journey by buses in Greece.

Top Greece Bus Routes

Kavala to Sofia

Thessaloniki to Skopje

Athens to Tirana

Thessaloniki to Belgrade

Thessaloniki to Budapest

Thessaloniki to Nis

Athens to Budapest

Athens to Shkoder

Athens to Durres

Patras to Tirana

Athens to Nis

Larissa to Novi Sad

Athens to Belgrade

Corinth to Tirana

Larissa to Budapest

Piraeus to Tirana

Larissa to Belgrade

Patras to Shkoder

Intercity Bus Travel in Greece

Traveling by bus between cities in Greece is straightforward and efficient. The country’s extensive intercity bus network, primarily operated by KTEL (a collective of regional bus companies), connects cities and villages, making it a great way to explore Greece's cultural and natural wonders.

Most buses are modern, with air conditioning and, in some cases, Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable trip. Whether heading to Thessaloniki, Meteora, or the Peloponnese, frequent schedules and affordable fares make intercity bus travel a practical option.

Domestic Bus Travel

Domestic bus travel in Greece is one of the most popular ways to get around, particularly for reaching smaller towns and villages. KTEL buses run frequently and are known for their reliability. Routes cover the entire mainland and even extend to some islands accessible by bridges, such as Lefkada.

Buses feature comfortable seating, air conditioning, and occasionally USB charging ports, ensuring a pleasant experience even on long journeys.

International Bus Travel

International buses from Greece provide excellent connectivity to neighboring countries. Whether you're heading to Albania, Bulgaria, or Turkey, you’ll find numerous options for cross-border travel. These buses typically offer comfortable seating, onboard amenities, and border crossing assistance.

Overnight Buses in Greece

Overnight buses in Greece are a cost-effective and time-saving option for long-distance travel, such as between Athens and Thessaloniki or Thessaloniki and Istanbul. These buses often feature reclining seats and spacious legroom, allowing passengers to rest during the journey.

Bus Stations in Greece

When traveling by bus in Greece, you’ll find major bus terminals in Athens, Thessaloniki, and other cities serving as hubs for both domestic and international routes.

Athens Kifissos Bus Terminal

The Kifissos Bus Terminal in Athens is the largest in Greece, connecting the capital with all major cities and many regional towns. The station features cafes, ticket counters, waiting areas, and luggage storage.

Thessaloniki Macedonia Intercity Bus Station

Located near Thessaloniki’s city center, this station provides connections to domestic and international destinations. Amenities include restaurants, kiosks, and ticketing services.

Patras Bus Station

Patras Bus Station is a gateway to the Peloponnese and other mainland cities. It offers essential facilities, including cafes and luggage storage.

Airport Shuttle Bus in Greece

Greece’s major airports are well-connected by shuttle buses to nearby cities. For example:

- Athens Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos): Buses link the airport to Athens city center and Kifissos Bus Terminal.

- Thessaloniki Airport (Makedonia): Shuttle buses connect to the city center and Macedonia Bus Station.

- Heraklion Airport: Direct bus services to the city center and key destinations in Crete.

Bus Companies in Greece

The primary provider of intercity bus services in Greece is KTEL, which operates regional networks. Each region has its own KTEL company, offering seamless connections nationwide. Some key providers include:

- KTEL Attikis (Athens region)

- KTEL Thessalonikis (Thessaloniki region)

- KTEL Crete

- KTEL Peloponnese

Buying a Bus Ticket in Greece

Tickets for bus travel in Greece can be purchased at bus stations, online via KTEL’s regional websites, or even directly from the driver for some routes. GetBy mobile app offers ticket booking options for added convenience.

Bus Rental Service in Greece

If you’re planning a group trip, a wedding, or a corporate event, renting a bus in Greece is a great option. Many companies provide modern buses with experienced drivers to suit various needs. Some options include:

- KTEL rental services available regionally.

- Private companies specializing in luxury coaches for group travel.

Public Transportation in Greece

Public transport in Greece is available in larger cities like Athens and Thessaloniki. Local buses connect neighborhoods and suburbs to city centers, with frequent schedules and low fares. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks, vending machines, or through apps.

Tips for Traveling Greece by Bus

Plan Ahead: Check timetables and book tickets in advance, especially for popular routes.

Arrive Early: Be at the station at least 20 minutes before departure.

Pack Essentials: Bring water, snacks, and entertainment for longer journeys.

Dress Comfortably: Buses are air-conditioned, so consider bringing a light jacket.

Enjoy the View: Many routes, especially along the coast or in the mountains, offer stunning scenery.

Stay Informed: Ask station staff or the driver if you're unsure about stops or connections.

Buses in Greece FAQs

How to pay for buses in Greece?

You can pay for bus tickets at ticket counters at bus stations, through online booking platforms, or directly from the bus driver for local routes. For intercity KTEL buses, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance online or at the station.

Are buses cheap in Greece?

Yes, buses in Greece are an affordable mode of transportation. Local bus fares typically cost around €1-2, while intercity buses are reasonably priced depending on the distance, ranging from €10 to €40.

Are buses good in Greece?

Greek buses, especially the KTEL intercity buses, are well-maintained and comfortable. They often feature air conditioning, spacious seats, and sometimes Wi-Fi, making them a reliable option for travelers.

How much does it cost to ride a bus in Greece?

Local city bus tickets cost between €1 and €2. For intercity travel, prices vary based on the route, with trips like Athens to Thessaloniki costing approximately €30-€35.

How do tourists get around Greece?

Tourists often use buses, ferries, and rental cars to explore Greece. Buses are a popular choice for both city transport and intercity travel due to their extensive coverage and affordability.

Are Greek buses reliable?

Yes, Greek buses are generally reliable and operate on scheduled timetables. However, during peak travel times in summer, it’s advisable to book tickets in advance for intercity routes.

Can you eat on Greek buses?

While there is no strict rule against eating on Greek buses, it is polite to avoid strong-smelling or messy foods to ensure a pleasant journey for other passengers.

Is public transport good in Greece?

Public transport in Greece is efficient, especially in cities like Athens and Thessaloniki. Buses, trams, and metro systems connect urban areas, while KTEL buses serve rural and intercity routes.

Does Greece have a hop-on-hop-off bus?

Yes, major tourist cities like Athens, Thessaloniki, and Heraklion offer hop-on-hop-off bus services. These buses are an excellent way for tourists to explore popular attractions conveniently.