Are you planning a trip from London to Greece and wondering if it’s possible to take a train? While the idea of a scenic train journey across Europe may sound appealing, there are several factors to consider.
In this article, we will explore the reasons why it’s not possible to take a train from London to Greece and some alternative travel options.
Contents
Is It Possible To Take A Direct Train From London To Greece?
No, the primary reason why you cannot take a train from London to Greece is the lack of direct train routes.
The European rail network is extensive, but it does not currently offer any direct train routes between London and Greece.
The furthest you can travel by train from London is to Thessaloniki in northern Greece, but this involves multiple changes and transfers across various European countries, which can be a time-consuming and costly experience.
What Are The Alternative Travel Options?
There are several alternative travel options available to you. Some of the most popular ones include:
- Fly:
Flying is the most popular and convenient option for traveling to Greece from London. There are several airlines that offer direct flights from London to Athens, the capital city of Greece, as well as other cities such as Thessaloniki and Heraklion.
- Drive:
If you enjoy road trips, driving from London to Greece is a possibility. However, it’s important to note that this is a long and challenging journey that involves crossing several European countries, including France, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Serbia, and Bulgaria, before reaching Greece.
- Take a bus:
If you don’t mind a longer journey, taking a bus from London to Greece is another alternative. You can travel with companies such as Eurolines, which offer bus services that connect London with several European cities, including Athens and Thessaloniki.
- Use a combination of transport:
Another option is to use a combination of transport methods, such as taking a train or bus to a nearby country, then flying or taking a ferry to Greece. This can be a cost-effective way of traveling, but it requires careful planning and research to ensure that you can make all the necessary connections.
What Is The Best Time Of Year To Travel In Train?
The best time of year to travel by train from London to Greece is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) months. The weather during these seasons is mild, making it pleasant to travel.
Additionally, the crowds are smaller during these months, which means that the trains are less likely to be crowded, and there may be more availability of seats.
However, it’s important to check the train schedules and availability during these seasons, as some routes may have limited service during the offseason.
How Much Does It Cost To Travel From London To Greece By Train?
The cost of traveling from London to Greece by train can vary depending on several factors, including the route you take, the time of year you travel, and the type of ticket you purchase. However, it’s worth noting that train travel can be more expensive than other forms of transportation, such as flying or taking a bus.
To give you an idea of the cost, let’s consider a few examples:
- London to Athens:
Taking a train from London to Athens is not possible, but you can travel via Paris or Brussels and then connect to another train or bus to Athens.
The cost of a one-way ticket from London to Paris or Brussels can range from £39 to £69, depending on the time of travel and the type of ticket you purchase. From there, the cost of the train or bus ticket to Athens can range from £50 to £150, depending on the carrier and the level of comfort.
- London to Thessaloniki:
To travel by train from London to Thessaloniki, you would need to take a combination of trains and buses with multiple transfers and changes.
The cost of a one-way ticket from London to Thessaloniki can range from £200 to £400, depending on the route and the type of ticket you purchase.
Overall, traveling from London to Greece by train can be expensive, and it may not be the most cost-effective option. However, it can be a more comfortable and scenic way to travel if you have the time and budget. It’s always a good idea to research your options and compare prices before booking your trip.
How Long Does It Take To Travel From London To Greece?
The travel time from London to Greece depends on the mode of transport and the route you choose. Flying is the fastest option, with direct flights from London to Athens taking around three and a half hours.
Driving can take up to three days, depending on the route and the number of stops you make. Taking a bus can take several days, and using a combination of transport methods can take even longer.
The travel time by train can vary depending on the route, the number of stops, and the time of year. However, the journey can take up to two to three days, including transfers and layovers.