We just got back from Greece for the second time. We have always used public transportation, but were a little leery of crowded Metro after getting robbed the first day-see Forum post on pickpockets in Athens-beware. We took the train from Athens to Kalambaka to go to Meteora-1st class. We purchased our tickets online before we left home-easy. 1st class on this train means 2 kind of comfortable bench seats across from each other with 3 people on each bench in a glass enclosed area. No wireless. So when you leave the area to go to the restroom, all of your stuff is vulnerable. It was not like the Rome to Florence train where there was a large table between you. Nothing but floor space. They do recline, but reclining 2 opposite each other is not practical. There is a food café with very limited choices, but that was crammed with young people on their phones, etc. and very difficult to get through them to the service bar. Bring your own food and snacks and drinks. I did not see the other cars, so I cannot compare.
Next time we will definitely do all of our trips with Spiros Taxi. He was our transportation for airport, and took us on a great day trip to the Peloponnese. He speaks perfect English which made it easy to hear all of the information he shared with us in his spotless Mercedes taxi. His prices are no more than most of the services, you can email him directly and he worked with us on every detail. I am taking my sisters to Greece and we will go to Meteora with Spiros this time. He will watch over us and keep us safe.