About Gallikos Railway Station
Greece’s largest and busiest railway station, Galikos Sidirodromikos, is one of the most significant works of modern architecture in the country. It opened in 1961 and has remained largely unchanged since then, although minor additions have been made.
In recent years, a number of new services have been introduced at the station to cater for growing demand. These include long-distance trains operated by TrainOSE to Athens, Alexandroupoli, Larissa and Florina; as well as regional commuter trains run by Proastiakos Thessaloniki to Thessaloniki, Patras, Chalkida and Skopje.
The main terminal features large waiting areas, a central hall with cafes and restaurants and a small chapel, all housed within a 1960s era building. There are staffed ticket offices and luggage lockers. The platforms are also sheltered by original 1960s modernist canopies.
Despite being a very busy and modern facility, the building was designed with a sense of ambiance. This is partly thanks to the use of glass and wood.
In the future, it is possible that the station will undergo major refurbishment and expansion. Talks are underway to create a metro station at the site and there is also a proposal to add an intercity bus terminal to the complex.
Renting a car is the easiest way to get around Thessaloniki, though be aware that many Greek ferries don’t allow cars and buses can have very limited schedules, especially outside of summer. For more extensive travel, an overnight trip to the mystical realm of Meteora from Athens is a great option.
