Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
If you fancy a bit more convenience and speed than that offered by buses and
cars, it's easily done. Overland enthusiasts can reach Greece on a fascinating rail
route through the Balkan peninsula, passing through Croatia, Serbia and the
Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. Or head to the western coast of Italy
(there are connections throughout most of Europe) and then take a ferry to
Greece. Not only will you be doing your bit for the Earth, but you'll see some gor-
geous scenery from your window as well.
A sample itinerary from London would see you catching the Eurostar to Paris
and then an overnight sleeper train to Bologna in Italy. From there, a coastal train
takes you to Bari where there's an overnight boat to Patra on the Peloponnese.
From Patra, it's a 4½-hour train journey to Athens. The journey will land you in
Athens within two days of leaving London. See
www.raileurope.com
for more
routes and tickets.
Greece is part of the Eurail network (
www.eurail.com
)
. Eurail passes can only be
bought by residents of non-European countries and are supposed to be purchased
before arriving in Europe but can be bought in Europe if your passport proves that
you've been here for less than six months. Greece is also part of the Inter-Rail Pass
system (
www.interrailnet.com
)
, available to those who have resided in Europe for
six months or more. See the websites for full details of passes and prices.
Border Crossings
ALBANIA
The main crossing at Kakavia can have intensely slow queues.
Kakavia
60km northwest of Ioannina
Krystallopigi
14km west of Kotas on the Florina-Kastoria road
Mertziani
17km west of Konitsa
Sagiada
28km north of Igoumenitsa
BULGARIA
As Bulgaria is part of the EU, crossings are usually quick and hassle-free.
Exohi
a new 448m tunnel border crossing 50km north of Drama
Ormenio
41km from Serres in northeastern Thrace
Promahonas
109km northeast of Thessaloniki
FORMER YUGOSLAV REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA (FYROM)
Doïrani
31km north of Kilkis
