Quick Travel Guide to Volos

The City of Volos is a coastal port city located in the region of Thessaly in mainland Greece. With a population of around 85,000 people, it is considered the capital of the Magnesia regional unit and the seat of the municipality of Volos.

Volos is situated at the foot of Mount Pelion, on the Pagasetic Gulf in the Aegean Sea. It is located about 326 km (203 miles) north of Athens and 215 km (134 miles) south of Thessaloniki. Due to its proximity to the sea and its location between Greece's two largest cities, Volos has long served as an important trading centre and port.

The city spans across the plains that are formed by the rivers Anavros and Xirias. Volos features a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The area has been inhabited since the Neolithic period, with modern Volos being founded in the mid-19th century after Greece gained independence from the Ottoman Empire.

How to Get to Volos

Volos can be reached by various modes of transportation:

By Plane

The closest airport to Volos is Nea Anchialos National Airport, located about 25 km (16 miles) south of the city. The airport operates domestic flights to and from Athens and several other major Greek cities. The drive from the airport to Volos takes around 30 minutes.

By Train

Volos is served by the national railway system of Greece. There are regular trains travelling to Volos from Athens, Thessaloniki, and other cities. The journey time from Athens is around 5 hours, while Thessaloniki to Volos takes just under 2 hours. The Volos train station is located in the eastern part of the city centre.

By Bus

Frequent bus connections exist between Volos and most major Greek cities. The Volos KTEL bus station is situated next to the train station, providing easy access to buses arriving from destinations like Athens, Thessaloniki, Larissa, Trikala, and more. Bus journeys are often quicker than trains.

By Car

Volos can be reached by car via the Greek national highway system. The main route is by taking the A1/E75 highway from Athens, which takes around 4 hours of driving. Drivers coming from Thessaloniki can reach Volos in under 2 hours via the A25.

Getting Around Volos

Volos is a very walkable city, especially in the scenic old town area. But there are also several transportation options for getting around:

By Bus

Volos operates a good public bus system that connects the central parts of town to the suburbs and outskirts. Local buses run frequently and are affordable. Major lines include bus line 1 that goes to the train station and bus line 8 to the university.

By Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Volos, stationed at stands across the city or by hailing one on the street. They provide quick transport around town for a reasonable fare. Many taxis can also be booked in advance by phone.

By Bicycle

Volos has a public bike share programme with numerous stations around the city centre. Cycling is a great way to explore Volos, with scenic coastal roads and paths leading from the main port to the beaches. Bike rentals are also available from shops.

By Boat

Small cruises and ferries connect Volos to the nearby Sporades Islands, especially Skiathos, Skopelos, and Alonissos. There are daily departures during high season. Boat tours around the Pagasetic Gulf are also popular.

Best Beaches in Volos

Volos has a spectacular coastline, offering some great beaches to enjoy the sun and swimming:

Anavros Beach

Located just southwest of central Volos, this Blue Flag beach stretches for over 2km along the coastline. It is well-organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, snack bars, showers, and water sport rentals available.

Agria Beach

Found north of Volos in the seaside town of Agria. This long sandy beach has full amenities like sun loungers, cafes, beach volleyball, and pedal boats for rent.

Pefkakia Beach

Situated further north of Volos near Pefkakia village. A more secluded pebble and stone beach, with few organized facilities but scenic seaside tavernas nearby.

Milina Beach

Nestled within the fishing village of Milina, about 10km north of Volos. This small sandy beach is surrounded by the picturesque port and mountains.

Platanias Beach

Located just 3km south of Volos next to the village of Platanias. A popular partly organized beach with water sports, beach bars, sunbeds, and a youthful lively atmosphere.

Chourdakis Beach

Found at the base of Mount Pelion, a 15 minute drive southwest of Volos. This hidden sandy cove is only accessible via a pathway through the cliffs.

Kala Nera Beach

Situated about 18km south of Volos in the coastal village Kala Nera. Family-friendly organized beach lined with palm trees and beach facilities.

Best Bars and Restaurants in Volos

Volos has a buzzing food and drink scene, with options to suit all tastes and budgets:

Grada Nuevo - Chic beachfront lounge bar serving inventive cocktails and modern Greek fusion dishes.

Agiottis - Traditional tavern acclaimed for its fresh seafood like crawfish, mussels, and octopus. Lively atmosphere.

Aeriko - Elegant fine dining restaurant with an ever-changing gourmet menu created with local ingredients.

Rakadiko tou Psara - Authentic Greek mezedes like saganaki, meatballs, and stuffed peppers served in a cosy setting.

Palia Plaka - Waterfront restaurant in an old stone mansion with fresh fish and amazing sunset views.

Ouzo Melathron - Unique bar specialising in different regional ouzo varieties, with buzzing late-night ambiance.

Rihardos - Trendy coffee shop with specialty espresso drinks and desserts made in-house. Relaxed urban vibe.

To Liotrivi - Charming old-town taverna cooking up delicious traditional dishes from the region.

Best Accommodation in Volos

Volos has a good variety of places to stay, from budget hostels to upscale waterfront hotels:

Hotel Jason - Stylish boutique hotel in a restored 1906 building, with plush rooms and great views.

Domotel Xenia Volou - Ultra-modern hotel near the beach, featuring minimalist decor, an outdoor pool, and excellent amenities.

Thea Palace Hotel - Elegant hotel set in a neoclassical mansion, with luxurious rooms, fine dining, and pretty gardens.

Hotel Sofoklis - Family-run hotel renowned for its warm hospitality and homecooked Greek breakfast. Great value.

Nefeli Hotel - Charming mid-range hotel set amidst lush greenery, with bright, spacious rooms. Close to beaches.

Philippos Hotel - Simple but comfortable budget hotel that’s central, clean, and has a roof garden terrace.

Volos Palace Hotel & Spa - Upscale contemporary hotel with full-service spa, indoor pool, and superb waterfront location.

Best Things to Do in Volos

• Volos offers plenty of great activities and attractions to enjoy during your time here:
• Wander the cobblestone alleys and traditional houses of the old town area called Palea (Old) Volos.
• Hike Mount Pelion to see scenic villages, waterfalls, stone bridges, and charming monasteries.
• Visit the Archaeological Museum of Volos to view artefacts from ancient cities around the area.
• Take a day trip to the stunning Sporades islands like Skiathos and Skopelos.
• Relax at one of the many lively beach bars along the city's coastline.
• See a concert or performance at the beautiful Dimitrios Vikelas Municipal Conservatory hall.
• Tour the old tsipouro distilleries and breweries around Volos and taste their products.
• Go sailing, kayaking or take a sunset boat cruise in the Pagasetic Gulf waters.
• Shop for fresh produce, cheese, olives, and local goods at Anavros open-air market.
• Go birdwatching and hiking in the wetlands and forests of the Velestino Nature Reserve.