Turkey and Greece inaugurated the new Kastanies-Pazarkule border crossing on June 20. The modern facility includes 12 vehicle lanes and separate pedestrian processing. It operates continuously and replaces the older, congested Ipsala crossing for many routes.
The agreement followed six months of negotiations to ease commercial traffic. Turkish truck drivers previously waited up to eight hours at Ipsala during peak summer months.
Both countries upgraded road connections leading to the new post. Electronic gates allow pre-registered frequent travellers to use automated lanes.
What this means for you
Use the Kastanies crossing when driving between Istanbul and Thessaloniki to avoid summer queues at Ipsala. Register for the automated lane online if you cross frequently for business. Carry both Turkish and Schengen insurance documents as random checks continue.
Expect initial congestion during the first two weeks while systems stabilise.