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The Complete Guide to Greece Travel: From Train and Ferry Bookings to Tips

Greek Transportation: A Complete Guide to the Complexities of Transportation
If you're planning to travel beyond Athens to the countryside or islands of Greece, it's a good idea to learn about trains and boats. This is essential information for those who find rental cars burdensome due to Greece's poor road conditions.

Taking the Greek train

Greece has a total of 2,500 km of railway lines.
It's convenient for traveling from Athens to cities like Thessaloniki and Meteora in northern Greece, and the Peloponnese Peninsula in the southwest. Taking the train also offers the added benefit of leisurely enjoying the beautiful Greek scenery unfolding before your eyes.
Personally, I recommend the train over the intercity bus.
In Greece, over 80% of the country is mountainous and rugged, so taking a bus often means navigating winding roads. Expecting smooth, tunnel-free roads like in Korea can lead to severe motion sickness, so if you're traveling by train, it's much more convenient.

How to book a train

The easiest way to book train tickets in Greece is to buy them directly at the train station ticket office.
However, if you are planning a trip in advance, I recommend purchasing tickets beforehand through the official Greek Railways website ( https://www.hellenictrain.gr/en ) or mobile app.
Please note that purchasing mobile tickets may result in a 10% discount for a limited time. On-site purchases can be difficult, especially during peak season, so booking in advance will allow you to begin your trip with peace of mind.

Using a Greek ship

If you're planning a trip to the Greek islands, you'll need to take a boat. Greece has several major ports, including Piraeus, Patras, and Igoumenitsa, providing access to various islands.
Among them, the port of Piraeus, located on the coast of Athens, is the most commonly used when going to the suburbs of Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete.
Depending on the distance between the islands, various types of boats operate, ranging from small vessels to ferries capable of carrying vehicles, to luxury cruise ships. Of these, the most common and readily available is the ferry.

How to book a ferry

I recommend ' Let's Ferry' as a site where you can check Greek ferry schedules and make reservations at a glance . By visiting this site and entering your desired departure and destination, dates, and number of passengers, you can easily check the types of ferry companies operating, travel times, and prices.
Especially during peak seasons like summer, on-site reservations can be difficult to obtain, so it's best to book your ferry tickets online in advance. Even if you're purchasing at the on-site ticket booth, checking this website for general schedules and prices can be very helpful.

Looking for information on Greek travel and romantic islands?

For a more romantic and free trip, visit Mykonos with its splendid nightlife and Santorini with its romantic scenery.
More information about the various islands of Greece and how to enjoy each island
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