How to get from Athens to Istanbul?
 

Does anyone know what the best way is to get from Athens to Istanbul?

Flights one way on Turkish air or Olympics airline are about $200-300 but the better times are twice more expensive.

Can someone comment on the ferry? How much, how long and times? I have heard there are ferries that take 23 hours. I don't know how much. Are they over night. Any info would be great. Thanks much.

Take the train

Here's a link for train information:

http://www.seat61.com/Turkey2.htm#Turkey%20-%20Greece

Everything I've read about the bus option makes it sound like a miserable trip.

Hello , Thanks for the reply. I checked the train schedule. I found te cost from Athens to Istanbul but could not figure out how long it takes and the schedule. I need to get from Athens to Istanbul on Friday October 20th. Has anyone taken this train.

It takes about 22.5 hours, departs Athens at 11:00 PM, arrives Thessaloniki at 5:35 AM, departs Thessaloniki at 7:20 AM, arrives at Istanbul at 9:30 PM.