Tourists who have used the Thessaloniki bypass to reach their summer resorts will need to change their route and prepare for heavier traffic and longer travel times. *The reason for this is a large project called “Flyover”, which will render the Thessaloniki bypass partially out of service for the next 4 years, at least.*

What is Flyover project in Thessaloniki?

The “Flyover” project, launched as an ambitious initiative to alleviate the chronic problem of traffic congestion in this city, includes the construction of a 13-kilometer overhead road, encompassing 9 different levels of intersections, 4 kilometers of continuous bridge, 8 new bridges, and 3 tunnels. The goal is to enable faster and safer vehicle passage, improve access to the airport, southern Thessaloniki, and Chalkidiki, and reduce the number of traffic accidents that are common on existing roads.

The total value of the project amounts to 478 million euros. It is expected that the “Flyover” will be able to accommodate 10,000 vehicles per hour in each direction, significantly reducing traffic congestion in the city.

To mitigate potential consequences on traffic during the construction phase, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport has initiated a series of measures. Among these measures are the launch of three new express bus lines with a total of 122 new routes, replacing old buses with newer articulated buses, adding 150 new drivers, and a plan to introduce 110 completely electric buses in the first half of 2024 to protect the environment.

Although the construction of the “Flyover” project brings many long-term benefits, including reducing traffic congestion and improving safety, it currently causes significant traffic disruptions in Thessaloniki. Parking bans on main streets and sudden congestion due to construction sites are among the current issues facing residents and visitors.

The Ministry of Infrastructure emphasizes that the inconveniences are temporary, and the benefits of the project will be permanent, expecting that the traffic situation will gradually normalize.

As an alternative to the Thessaloniki bypass, it is recommended to use the roads through the industrial zone and the city center, through Egnatia or Avenija Nikis (the street along the coast). This route, which is already popular among tourists heading to Chalkidiki and Thessaloniki enthusiasts, can be more pleasant. You can take the opportunity to take a break in Thessaloniki.

The good news is that the works on Egnatia Street have been completed, and now all traffic lanes are accessible. The police have increased their presence and are enforcing parking bans on Egnatia, Tsimiski, and Nikis streets for better traffic flow.

The construction of the “Flyover” project in Thessaloniki is planned to last for four years, however, it should be noted that unexpected challenges may arise during the implementation of large infrastructure projects, potentially prolonging the duration of the works. Therefore, it is important to monitor official sources for updated information on the progress of the project.

How to avoid the crowds due to roadworks on the Thessaloniki bypass?

Tourists coming from Serbia use the Thessaloniki bypass not only when traveling to Chalkidiki, but also when heading to other popular destinations such as Thassos, Stavros, and Asprovalta. The bypass provides easier and faster access to these places, avoiding congestion in the center of Thessaloniki.

To avoid crowds on the way to Chalkidiki, especially during the summer season when the influx of tourists is highest, consider the following recommendations:

1. Choose alternative routes: While the main road to Chalkidiki is the fastest and most direct route, consider alternative routes that may have less traffic.
If you are traveling to Thassos, it is best to travel through Bulgaria. We believe that the route to Thassos through Bulgaria is a better option not only due to roadworks in Thessaloniki but in general. The roadworks on the bypass are just another reason to opt for traveling through Bulgaria. You will reach Thassos faster through Bulgaria. For more information on traveling to Thassos through Bulgaria, click on the link: Driving to Thassos through Bulgaria
Instead of taking the bypass, drive through the industrial zone and the center of Thessaloniki. This route can be quite interesting.
You can always use the border crossing at Dojran to bypass Thessaloniki completely.

2. Travel off-peak: If possible, avoid traveling during weekends or holidays when congestion is at its peak. Traveling on weekdays, especially early in the morning (before 7 AM Greek time) or late in the afternoon after 7 PM, can significantly reduce the time spent in traffic.

3. Follow traffic reports: The Ministry of Infrastructure has created the Flyover Real Time platform where traffic on the Thessaloniki bypass can be monitored live. It also provides information on how long it takes to travel from the western part of the city to the eastern part via the bypass, Egnatia, and Megalou Alexandrou Boulevard, along the sea. And vice versa, from the east to the west part of the city, via the bypass, Egnatia, and V. Olgas and Tsimiski. The platform is currently only available in Greek, but we hope it will be translated into English by the beginning of summer. Access the platform by clicking here: Flyover Real Time
The platform is user-friendly, so all you need to know is:

  • Red table represents the names of the roads: Periferiaki, Egnatia, Paraliaki (Avenue Nikis, street along the sea)
  • Blue table displays passage time in minutes
  • Green table: speed at which vehicles are currently passing (km/h)

4. Plan your travel in advance: Make sure not to book accommodation starting on Fridays and Saturdays and ending on Sundays, as well as during holidays. We advise you to avoid vacationing in the second half of July and until August 18th if possible. This way, you will avoid congestion at the border and on the way to the resorts.

5. Use technology: Utilize navigation apps that offer alternative route options and can provide real-time updates on traffic congestion. Apps such as Google Maps, Waze, or similar ones, can give you real-time information on traffic jams and suggest the fastest routes to your destination.

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