Thessaloniki’s metro system takes a major leap forward today, Thursday, 27 August 2026, with the official inauguration of its long-awaited extension toward Kalamaria. At 9:30 a.m., Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis will attend the ceremony marking the launch of the new branch — a milestone for urban mobility in Greece’s second-largest city.
New Stations Open to the Public at 3 p.m.
From 3:00 p.m. onward, residents and visitors can begin using the five newly completed stations: Nomarchia, Kalamaria, Aretsou, Nea Krini, and Mikra. These stations extend the metro line from the existing terminus at the New Railway Station (Neos Sidirodromikos Stathmos) eastward into key residential and commercial areas of Thessaloniki’s southern suburbs.
Operational Details and Travel Times
Test runs have been successfully completed, and trains are now ready for full passenger service. The full journey from Mikra to the New Railway Station will take approximately 24 to 26 minutes, depending on train routing between the two branches of the line. Crucially, travel time from central Kalamaria to downtown Thessaloniki will be under 20 minutes — significantly cutting commute times across the metropolitan area.
During peak hours on the shared section between the New Railway Station and 25th March Station, trains will run every three minutes. On the new Kalamaria branch, headways will average around 4.5 minutes — ensuring frequent, reliable service.
Expanded Operating Hours
With the integration of the Kalamaria branch, the Thessaloniki Metro reverts to its full operating schedule:
- Monday–Thursday: 5:15 a.m. – 12:30 a.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 5:15 a.m. – 2:00 a.m.
- Sunday: 5:15 a.m. – 12:30 a.m.
These hours reflect the first and last departures from the line’s three terminal stations: New Railway Station, Nea Elvetia, and Mikra.
Notably, in support of the International Fair of Thessaloniki, the network will operate 24 hours on Friday 4 September, Saturday 5 September, Friday 11 September, and Saturday 12 September.
Strengthening Urban Mobility
The opening of this extension marks a significant upgrade to Thessaloniki’s public transport infrastructure. By connecting densely populated neighborhoods with the city center and rail hub, the metro enhances accessibility, reduces road congestion, and supports sustainable, efficient mobility across the metropolitan region.