GETTING THERE

Ferries, hydrofoils and catamarans bound for a bewildering array of islands depart from nearby Piraeus. For the latest departure information, pick up a weekly ferry schedule from the tourist office in central Athens.

There are two main intercity bus stations: Terminal A, about 7km (4.3mi) northwest of Omonia at Kifissou 100,has departures to the Peloponnese, the Ionian Islands and western Greece; Terminal B, 5km (3mi) north Omonia off Liossion,
has departures to central and northern Greece as well as to Evia. Terminal A isn't the best introduction to the city, particularly if you arrive between midnight and 5am, when there is no public transport. Terminal B does not have service during those hours either,
although every other time, it is more pleasant and convenient than Terminal A.

Trains leave for northern Greece, Evia and Europe from Larisis train station in Deligianni, about 1km (0.6mi) northeast of Plateia Omonias. Express services,which cost double the standard fare, are available to Thessaloniki, Larisa, Xanthi and Volos. Overnight services to Thessaloniki offer couchettes.
Trains for Peloponnese leave from the Peloponnese train station, which is on Sidirodromon.

Brazen drivers or motorcyclists can enter or leave the city via National Road 1, the main route north from Athens. Hitchhiking is difficult around Athens. Your best bet is to ask the truck drivers at the Piraeus cargo wharves for a lift.