Greece by Train
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Your Eurail journey through Greece will likely be unforgettable. Greece is a mystical blend of ancient history and modern-day hedonism. Take in the sights that take you back to a world before time, and then leap back into the present for sand, sea, and sun relaxation. Whether on the mainland or one of the countless islands, Greece is a true paradise.
Please note that train travel in Greece requires some preparation. Read our travel update about Greece for more information.
Places to visit in Greece
Ancient wonders in Olympia
As the site of the first Olympic Games, held in honor of Zeus beginning in 776 B.C., this was a natural shrine of the Greeks. It’s located in Litochoro, in western Peloponnisos, and features the Temple of Zeus, the Stadium and the Prytaneion.
Athens, city of contradictions
When you first arrive in Athens, you may be surprised by the busy, fast-paced, high-traffic flow. But take the time to explore, and you’ll find plenty of interesting attractions. From the Acropolis and Parthenon to the hip and trendy clubs, you’re sure to find plenty of interesting contradictions in this ancient city. It received a pretty good makeover for the 2004 Olympics, so traveling in Athens should be a breeze.
Delphi and Meteora
With breathtaking mountain scenery as its backdrop, it’s no wonder the amazing ruins of Delphi are one of the most popular sites in all of Greece. In ancient times, this was the center of the world, where people would go to consult the Oracle. It was also place of worship for the God Apollo. The day trip from Athens is well worth it, especially if you include a trip to the ancient mountaintop monasteries of Meteora.
Island hopping
Greece has beautiful islands and beaches. Combine your rail trip with a boat trip to enjoy the beaches and islands at their best. Rhodos is extremely popular with western European travelers. It has the largest inhabited medieval town in Europe, complete with fortified walls nearly 40 feet (12 meters) thick. Long and lush, unique and friendly, Kos is another island you won’t soon forget. From the active, Vegas-like nightlife to the ancient ruins it's all worth a trip.
Mycenae: an archeologist's heaven
This fortress, which was built around 2000 B.C., is southwest of Athens in the northeastern Peloponnese and boasts impressive walls, amazing tomb shafts and a host of other archeological must-sees. The Mask of Agamemnon and many other treasures have been unearthed here.
Royal Crete
Crete, Greece’s largest and southernmost island is an excellent ferry destination. Don’t forget to visit Knossos Palace. It’s believed to be the center of the Minoan civilization and culture and was home to King Minos, whose wife gave birth to the mythological Minotaur (half man, half bull). You can experience, firsthand, the royal quarters, throne room and queen’s quarters.
Benefits in Greece
Ferry crossings between Greece and Italy
If your Eurail pass is valid in both Greece and Italy, you can travel for FREE with a number of ferry providers. Those with Eurail passes for only one of these countries can receive a discount of up to 30% on full fares for selected routes.
Domestic boat trips
You can get special fares on domestic boat travel with the following ferry companies:
Blue Star Ferries
Superfast Ferries
Minoan Lines
More about Greece
Rail passes for Greece
Combining iconic ancient history, impressive mountain scenery, and beaches straight out of a magazine, Greece is an ideal country to explore with a Eurail Pass. Step back in time in the ancient capital of Athens and visit popular islands such as Rhodes, Kos, and Crete by ferry with our Greek Island Pass.
