Public transportation in Thessaloniki in 2026 is one of the most convenient ways to explore the city - a modern metro system, integrated tickets, and cashless payments make getting around easy and stress-free. Planning a city break in Thessaloniki in 2026 and wondering how to move around efficiently? This is a perfect time to visit. Public transport in Thessaloniki has undergone a major transformation - it’s fast, affordable, and far easier to use than just a few years ago. After years of delays, the Thessaloniki metro is now fully operational and seamlessly integrated with the city bus network.

What once symbolized endless construction delays has become one of the city’s biggest advantages. If you want to explore Thessaloniki without overpaying for taxis, avoid traffic jams, and save time on route planning, this guide is exactly what you need.

Public transportation in Thessaloniki - metro, buses, and tickets (2026)

The public transport system is managed by the Thessaloniki Urban Transport Organization (OSETH), which oversees both the city buses (OASTH) and the metro. The launch of the second metro line was a key milestone. The new section connects the city center with the Kalamaria district in the southeast. The route is 4.78 km long and includes five modern stations: Nomarchia, Kalamaria, Aretsou, Nea Krini, and Mikra. Thanks to this expansion, the Thessaloniki metro has become one of the fastest and most convenient ways to get around — for both residents and visitors. Another major benefit is the integrated ticket system covering both metro and buses.

Ticket prices in Thessaloniki (updated for 2026)

In 2026, Thessaloniki operates under a single ticket system — the same ticket is valid on both the metro and city buses. Importantly, fares have been reduced to encourage greater use of public transportation. Below are the current public transport ticket prices in Thessaloniki for 2026.

Thanks to these low fares, public transportation in Thessaloniki is among the most affordable in Greece. The €2.50 day pass is ideal for intensive sightseeing, but keep in mind it does not apply to special lines, such as airport buses or the popular Cultural Route Line 50.

Good news for families: children under 6 ride for free when accompanied by a ticket-holding adult. Teens aged 7 - 18 and seniors over 65 qualify for discounted fares, making public transport one of the cheapest ways to get around the city.

What tourists should know

In 2026, public transportation in Thessaloniki is almost entirely cashless. The city has introduced modern payment methods, so there’s no need to carry cash or search for ticket kiosks.

Ticket machines

Ticket vending machines are available at all metro stations and in many locations across the city. They accept cash and cards, and offer multilingual menus for tourists.

Contactless payments on buses

You can pay by card or smartphone directly when boarding. Cash is not accepted on buses.

Tap2Ride system

The Tap2Ride system automatically caps your daily fare - just tap your card, phone, or smartwatch, and you’ll never pay more than the cost of a day pass.

OSETH app

The official OSETH app lets you buy QR-code tickets and check real-time arrivals for buses and metro lines.

How to get from SKG Airport to Thessaloniki city center

Thessaloniki Macedonia Airport (SKG) is well connected to the city center. In 2026, express buses remain the cheapest and most convenient option, operating 24/7.

The most popular route is Line 01X (01N at night). The fare is €2.00, with departures every 20–30 minutes, serving areas near the White Tower and Aristotle Square. The metro does not yet reach the airport — the closest station is Mikra.

Tourist bus Line 50

Line 50, known as the Cultural Route, is a favorite among visitors. Starting at the White Tower, it completes a loop of the city’s top landmarks in about 50 minutes.

For €2.00, you get a mini sightseeing tour with English audio commentary — perfect for your first day in Thessaloniki. Just remember to validate your ticket, as inspections are frequent.

Hop-On Hop-Off buses are available, but for price and authenticity, Line 50 is the better choice.

• 1-day ticket – €10
• 2-day ticket – €18
• Unlimited hop-on hop-off at 8 designated stops

In 2026, getting around Thessaloniki requires no special preparation or local knowledge. A well-functioning public transport system lets you focus on what really matters — walking the city, discovering its history, and enjoying the seaside atmosphere.