About Athens train station
Athens train station is sometimes known as Larissa station, an older name that lives on in the attached Metro station. As the main station of the Greek capital, it's the largest station in the country. Close to Athens' center, it's also a common place for visitors to arrive and get their first glimpse of the city.
Athens train station connects the city with the port of Piraeus, where ships leave to many of the Greek islands. It also connects Athens to cities further north. The station has undergone several renovations and updates since it was opened in 1904.
During the first half of the 20th century, Athens was a stop on the Orient Express, connecting the city to London, Paris, Vienna, Budapest, and other major capitals. However, a decline in rail travel toward the end of the century saw the demise of the Orient Express, and Athens lost its international routes in favor of national ones. As a result, Athens train station can't compete in size with the huge international stations in cities like London or Paris. However, it is a convenient station for travelers from other parts of Greece, especially Thessaloniki to the north.
Things to do near Athens train station
Athens train station lies slightly to the north of the city's ancient heart. However, it's easy to reach most of Athens attractions on foot or via Metro. The Metro station linked to the train station means that you can head into the heart of Europe's oldest capital city in no time at all.
- Explore ancient history at the National Archaeological Museum. This world-renowned museum hosts a simply stunning collection of Greek art and artifacts from the Bronze Age up until the Hellenistic period and beyond. A visit here will help you to understand the magnificent monuments that Athens is known for.
- See more contemporary art on the streets of Athens. The Greek capital celebrates the work of truly impressive graffiti artists. You can see some of it for yourself at simpleG's "Too many books, too little time," just south of the train station. This impressive mural occupies the entire wall of a building and is characteristic of Athen's anarchic spirit.
- Admire some of the world's most beautiful cars of the Hellenic Motor Museum. While Athens is best known for its ancient temples and theaters, this quirky Museum offers insight into more modern history. Occupying the upper floors of a shopping mall, the museum has a Formula One racing simulator and a collection of over 100 classic cars.
- Stretch your legs on Finopoulou Hill. Although close to the center of the city, the shaded hiking trails at this small park feel a world away. Escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy views over the city at this urban oasis.
- Dive into the chaos of Athens at Monastiraki Square. This bustling public space is home to a variety of cafés and restaurants, and also houses the Monastiraki Flea Market. The eclectic mix of stalls here are sure to provide you with some great souvenirs, and the energetic vibe of this part of the city can't be beaten.
Transit options at Athens train station
- Athens train station provides rail services throughout the country, including to the port of Piraeus. This makes it convenient for boat trips to other destinations throughout the Greek archipelago.
- Athens train station is connected to Larissa Metro station. It is served by line 2, which stops at Syntagma and Akropoli stations, among others.
- Trolley bus line 1 stops just outside the station.
Luggage storage at Athens train station
With vibrant street life and great weather, Athens is one of Europe’s best cities to explore on foot. However, you’ll have a much easier time if you don’t try to carry too much stuff with you.
Bounce makes it easy to travel light by providing you with convenient luggage storage near Athens train station. Drop off your bags and explore freely, knowing your belongings will be waiting for you safely until you return.
Attractions and activities near Athens train station
- Acropolis: Wherever you go in Athens, you can't miss the Acropolis. This complex of ancient temples dominates the city skyline, rising on a plateau above the Greek capital. The 2500-year-old temple of the Parthenon is Athens' most visited attraction and a famous symbol of the city and Greece. You'll do a lot of walking as you explore the Parthenon and the other buildings of the Acropolis, so make sure you drop off any unneeded bags at an Athens luggage storage location to make the trip easier on yourself.
- Plaka: The Plaka neighborhood sits at the foot of the hill below the Acropolis. The quaint whitewashed buildings and narrow streets are quintessentially Greek, and are worth taking some time to explore. Old-fashioned restaurants and charming shops make this one of Athens' most popular and beguiling neighborhoods.
- Agora: The Agora was the heart of Athens in the time of Socrates and his contemporaries. The economic, political, and commercial heart of ancient Athens now lies mostly in ruins. However, it's an atmospheric place to wander and imagine how the city used to be. Plus, you may find some tortoises munching contentedly on the weeds that grow among the rubble.
