Picture of Ouranoupoli

Reaching Ouranoupoli: The Gateway to Athos

Ouranoupoli, a picturesque coastal town in northern Greece, serves as the primary gateway to the spiritual realm of Mount Athos. Located near Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city and its closest international airport, Ouranoupoli is the final stop before embarking on a journey to the Holy Mountain.

By Bus: From Thessaloniki to Ouranoupoli

Traveling by bus to Ouranoupoli from Thessaloniki involves reaching the KTEL Chalkidikis Bus Station, situated south of the city center. Here's how you can make this journey comfortably.

Reaching KTEL Chalkidikis Bus Station

KTEL Chalkidikis, serving as the central hub for bus services to the Halkidiki peninsula, particularly Ouranoupoli, is conveniently reachable from various parts of Thessaloniki.

By Taxi

A taxi ride from Thessaloniki's airport or city center to KTEL Chalkidikis costs about €20 and takes approximately 15-20 minutes.

By Public Transportation

From the city center, buses like the number 45 go to KTEL Chalkidikis. From the airport, you can take bus 79.

Bus Schedules to Ouranoupoli

Buses from KTEL Chalkidikis to Ouranoupoli operate at 6:00, 12:45, 14:30, and 17:45. The fare is €12.40 for the approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes journey. Tickets can be purchased online at the official KTEL Chalkidikis Bus Station website or directly at the bus station. The 6:00 AM bus is advisable for those intending to travel to Mount Athos on the same day.

Returning to KTEL Chalkidikis from Ouranoupoli

Buses from Ouranoupoli to KTEL Chalkidikis Bus Station depart at 8:00, 13:00, 15:00, and 18:00.

By Car: Driving Routes to Ouranoupoli

Renting a car offers the flexibility and comfort to reach Ouranoupoli at your own pace. Here's a guide to help you navigate the journey.

Car Rental Options at Thessaloniki Airport

Several car rental companies operate at Thessaloniki Airport, offering convenient options for travelers. Here are the links to their official websites:

Recommended Route to Ouranoupoli

The recommended car route to Ouranoupoli is through Poligiros city, spanning approximately 117 km and taking about 1 hour and 50 minutes. Below is an interactive map outlining the route:

Parking in Ouranoupoli

There are two main paid parking options in Ouranoupoli, both charging around €5 per day. Below are the details of these parking areas:

By Taxi: Direct Route to Ouranoupoli

A convenient taxi ride from Thessaloniki airport to Ouranoupoli typically costs around €180 and takes about 2 hours, covering a distance of 117 km.

Choosing Your Overnight Stay Before Mount Athos

Depending on your arrival time in Thessaloniki, you may choose to stay overnight either in Thessaloniki or Ouranoupoli. Staying in Thessaloniki offers a chance to explore the city, then travel to Ouranoupoli the next morning. Alternatively, staying in Ouranoupoli allows for a shorter journey to collect your diamonitirion and board the ship to Mount Athos.

Frequently Asked Questions: Reaching Ouranoupoli

You can reach Ouranoupoli from Thessaloniki by bus, car, or taxi. Buses to Ouranoupoli depart from the KTEL Chalkidikis Bus Station, while taxis and rental cars offer more direct routes.

Buses to Ouranoupoli from KTEL Chalkidikis operate at 6:00, 12:45, 14:30, and 17:45. The 6:00 AM bus is recommended if planning to reach Mount Athos the same day.

Car rental options at Thessaloniki Airport include Avance Car Rental, Avis Car Rental, Hertz Car Rental, and Sixt Car Rental.

Yes, there are two main paid parking options in Ouranoupoli, both charging around €5 per day.

A taxi ride from Thessaloniki to Ouranoupoli typically costs around €180 and takes about 2 hours for the 117 km journey.

The choice depends on your arrival time in Thessaloniki. Staying in Thessaloniki allows you to explore the city, whereas staying in Ouranoupoli offers a shorter journey to collect your diamonitirion and board the ship to Mount Athos.