Orfana Railway Station, situated in the village of Orfana in the Karditsa regional unit of Thessaly, Greece, offers travelers a unique blend of historical significance and access to the scenic beauty of central Greece. Opened in 1995, the station replaced an older facility of the same name and is located just east of the village.
🚉 Orfana Railway Station Overview
- Location: Orfana, Karditsa, Thessaly, Greece
- Opened: 1995
- Platforms: 2
- Tracks: 2
- Electrification: 25 kV AC, 50 Hz
- Operator: Hellenic Train
- Line: Piraeus–Platy railway
- Facilities: The station is equipped with ticket desks, bathrooms, comfortable waiting rooms, left luggage facilities, on-site parking, and several eateries .
🚆 Train Services Serving Orfana
Orfana Railway Station is served by regional services operated by Hellenic Train, connecting it to various destinations:
- Palaiofarsalos: Approximately 8 trains per day
- Larissa: Approximately 8 trains per day
- Athens and Thessaloniki: Orfana serves as a regional hub with services extending to these major cities .
Travelers can purchase tickets at the station’s ticket desks or online through the Hellenic Train website .
💰 Estimated Travel Costs
Here are some estimated travel times and costs for routes involving Orfana:
- Athens to Orfana:
- Train: Approximately 3 hours and 4 minutes; €25–€35
- Bus: Approximately 5 hours and 7 minutes
- Car: Approximately 3 hours and 28 minutes; €52–€75 .
- Thessaloniki to Orfana:
- Train: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes; €20–€30
- Car: Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes; €40–€60
Please note that prices are approximate and can vary based on the time of booking and travel class.
🏞️ Exploring Orfana and Surroundings
Orfana is nestled in the Thessalian plain, offering picturesque views of the surrounding countryside. The region is known for its agricultural landscapes and proximity to the Pindus mountain range. Nearby attractions include the Meteora monasteries and the city of Larissa.
⚠️ Historical Note: Orfana Rail Disaster
On January 16, 1972, a tragic rail disaster occurred near Orfana due to a breakdown in communication between stationmasters, leading to a head-on collision between an express train and a military relief train. The accident resulted in 21 fatalities and over 40 injuries. This incident prompted significant safety reforms in Greek railway operations, including the introduction of radiotelephones on trains
Orfana Railway Station serves as a gateway to the rich cultural and natural heritage of Thessaly. Whether you’re passing through or exploring the region, the station provides essential services and connections to key destinations in Greece.
