Starting December 1 the new transit map developed by the Transport Authority of Thessaloniki (TheTA) will come into effect. The updated plan includes modifications to 11 bus routes, the addition of a new line from Macedonia Airport and adjustments to certain terminal stops, aimed at decongesting the city center and enhancing passenger service.
An event on Friday presented the new transit map. Infrastructure and Transport Minister Christos Staikouras noted that the transit map will undergo review after the launch of the metro and bus systems and again six months post-implementation. He highlighted that this period will gauge its effectiveness, particularly with the metro extension to Kalamaria expected by late 2025. Staikouras added that fare policies for combined transport will be announced in the coming days.
"Our efforts intensify for even better outcomes," Staikouras emphasized. "Beyond the final metro trials and the upgrade of the Thessaloniki Urban Transport Organization with new buses, we must work methodically to reshape Thessaloniki's transit map, introducing modern modes of transportation like the metro, electric buses, and the Fly Over, set for completion in less than three years."
Staikouras also discussed fleet upgrades, including 110 electric buses, TheTA’s leasing contracts, the replacement of 18 outdated vehicles and the hiring of 190 drivers and 60 private fare inspectors.
Deputy Transport Minister Vassilis Oikonomou emphasized that the transit map will be fully realized by May 2025. "With the Thessaloniki metro's launch, we are entering a new era for the city's transit system, creating quality terminal stations for citizens. The current state of the train station is unacceptable; the terminal should be a showcase and we will make it so," he affirmed, reiterating that the Thessaloniki metro will open to the public on November 30 as an impressive and safe project.
(Photo: Infrastructure and Transport Minister Christos Staikouras inspected 18 new buses on Friday during his visit to the Thessaloniki Urban Transport Organization’s depot. The buses will be deployed immediately to replace older vehicles in the city’s fleet.)
