Located on the coast of the Pagasetic Gulf in Central Greece, Volos Railway Station (Σιδηροδρομικός Σταθμός Βόλου) is a charming terminus that serves both as a functional transport hub and a historic symbol of Greece’s rail history. Volos is a vibrant port city steeped in mythology, culture, and food—and a perfect base for exploring Mount Pelion and the Thessalian plain.
🚉 About Volos Railway Station
Opened in 1884, Volos Railway Station is one of Greece’s oldest continuously operating stations. Its neoclassical architecture, designed by Italian engineer Evaristo de Chirico (father of surrealist painter Giorgio de Chirico), remains largely preserved. Inside, travelers can find a small rail museum with vintage photographs and model trains, adding historic charm to a functional space.
Facilities:
- Staffed ticket counters and waiting room
- Clean restrooms and basic seating
- Taxis and buses available outside
- Central location—just a 5-minute walk from the waterfront
🚆 Train Services to Volos
As of 2025, Volos is served by Hellenic Train via a branch line from Larissa, which connects to the main Athens–Thessaloniki rail corridor.
| Route | Duration | Approx. Fare (€) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Larissa → Volos | ~1 hr | €5–6 | 6–8 daily |
| Athens → Volos (via Larissa) | ~4.5 hrs | €20–25 total (IC + regional) | 3–4 daily |
| Thessaloniki → Volos (via Larissa) | ~3 hrs | €18–22 total | 3–4 daily |
Tickets can be booked online at www.hellenictrain.gr, at Larissa station, or directly at the Volos ticket counter.
🚨 Tip: Direct trains from Athens to Volos were suspended years ago. All passengers must change trains at Larissa, but connections are generally well-timed.
🏙️ Why Visit Volos?
Volos is more than a port city—it’s a starting point of the Argonauts’ myth, a foodie paradise, and a jumping-off spot for visiting Pelion villages, hiking trails, and beaches.
🌟 Things to Do in Volos
- Argonauts Waterfront Promenade
- Walk along the seafront past cafés, sailboats, and a replica of the mythical ship Argo.
- Perfect for evening strolls and tsipouro tasting.
- Archaeological Museum of Volos
- Showcases Neolithic, Mycenaean, and Classical artefacts from the surrounding region.
- Entry: ~€5
- The Rooftop Railway Museum (inside the station)
- A small but interesting collection of historical rail photos, station clocks, and equipment.
- Tsipouradika Experience
- Volos is famous for its tsipouradika—traditional taverns serving small plates (mezedes) with tsipouro, a local spirit.
- Try octopus, pickled vegetables, and bougiourdi (spicy feta dip).
- Day Trips to Pelion
- Explore Makrinitsa, Portaria, Milies, and Tsagarada, each offering stone mansions, mountain trails, and stunning sea views.
- Accessible by car, bus, or even by historic Pelion steam train (from Ano Lechonia to Milies – seasonal).
🚂 The Pelion Train (Historic Narrow Gauge)
Though not departing directly from Volos station anymore, the “Moutzouris” steam train runs from Ano Lechonia (12 km east of Volos) to Milies, through lush forest, stone bridges, and traditional Pelion villages.
- Operates: April–October, weekends and holidays
- Duration: 90 minutes (one-way)
- Fare: €10–18 (round trip)
🧳 Travel Itinerary Example – From Athens
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 07:30 | IC train from Athens to Larissa |
| 10:30 | Connect to regional train to Volos |
| 11:30 | Arrive in Volos, explore the waterfront |
| 13:00 | Lunch at a tsipouradiko |
| 15:00 | Visit the museum or relax at the beach |
| 18:00 | Optional overnight or return to Larissa |
Cost Summary:
- Train fare: ~€22–25 (Athens → Volos one way)
- Meals: €10–15
- Museum entry: €5
➡️ Day budget: ~€40–45 (more if staying overnight)
🚍 Local Transportation
- KTEL Magnesia Buses connect Volos to nearby villages, including Pelion and ski areas.
- Taxis are affordable and easy to find around the station and harbor.
- Rental cars or scooters are ideal for those heading deeper into the mountain region.
🧭 Final Thoughts
Volos Railway Station may be the terminus of a small branch line, but it marks the start of big adventures. Whether you’re tracing the myth of Jason and the Argonauts, sipping tsipouro with seafront meze, or boarding the heritage train to Pelion, Volos delivers a rich travel experience that’s easily accessible by rail from anywhere in mainland Greece.
Volos isn’t just a connection—it’s a destination.
