Arriving at Santorini’s ferry port can be an overwhelming experience, especially for first-time visitors. We’ve been there twice, and while it was chaos the first time around, we learned from our mistakes and had a much smoother (and cheaper) second visit. In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know to navigate Santorini’s ferry port like a pro, whether you’re arriving after a relaxing week in Milos or just starting your vacation.
With two main expense categories – ferry tickets and transportation from the port – it’s essential to be prepared to avoid stress. Ferry tickets vary depending on the route and season, while there are different means of transportation available for all budgets.
It’s also important to note that not all ferry routes to Santorini are open year-round, so be sure to book your tickets online through FerryScanner at least a month in advance to ensure availability and schedule your travel dates accordingly. With some planning and preparation, even the chaotic summer months can be turned into a positive experience.
Santorini ferry port vs Santorini cruise port
Santorini ferry port
Santorini’s ferry port is situated on the western coast of the island, serving as the primary gateway for arrivals and departures. The Athinios ferry port, identified by its code ATI, is the sole facility that handles both ferries and cargo vessels. When planning your journey to or from Santorini, it’s essential to keep Athinios in mind, as it’s the only terminal you’ll need to concern yourself with.
A single, open-air terminal at Athinios port caters to all ferry routes connecting Santorini to other Greek Islands.
Santorini old port, Fira Skala
Santorini’s Old Port has a rich history dating back to 1650 BC when a volcano eruption created the caldera that now houses this ancient harbor. Located at the bottom of the Caldera Cliffs in Fira, the port serves as the departure point for tours exploring the volcano and Thirassia island, while also accommodating cruise ships that are too large for Athinios ferry port.
Despite not having a dedicated cruise terminal, Santorini’s Old Port is where these vessels disembark their passengers, who then board tender boats to reach land. During peak summer months, multiple cruise ships arriving at the same time can create a bustling atmosphere. While situated in Fira, the port is actually 220 meters below the town, making it necessary for visitors to find ways to ascend.
There are three options: take the cable car that runs every few minutes and offers a scenic ride up to Fira; ride a mule up the 587 steps, an option that raises ethical concerns about animal welfare; or embark on the same journey on foot, which can be arduous but rewarding if done at a leisurely pace. Whichever method is chosen, it’s essential to note that Santorini’s Old Port does not serve as a departure point for ferries – instead, head to Athinios port when departing the island.
Where is Santorini ferry port
Santorini’s ferry port, situated on the west coast of the island, is nestled within the Caldera cliffs’ majestic curves. The road leading to the port from the main thoroughfare is a steep and winding one, with sharp turns that require caution. As buses and shuttles arrive, dropping off tourists at their destinations, the road becomes increasingly congested during peak season. If you’re planning to drive during this time, be prepared for slow-going and regular stops.
In fact, it can take around 30 minutes to reach the top due to heavy traffic. In contrast, when traffic is light, the ferry port is roughly 9km from Fira, a 20-minute journey by car. Oia lies some 20km away, requiring a 40-minute ride. Similarly, Santorini airport and Kamari are approximately 10km apart, with a travel time of about 25 minutes, not accounting for peak season’s increased congestion.
However, as our experience below will attest, those times can be doubled during the busiest periods.
Your budget for Santorini ferry port
When traveling to or from Santorini ferry port, several expense categories come into play. One of the most significant is the cost of your ferry ticket, which depends on the distance traveled and the type of route. Direct routes and express ferries tend to be pricier, with our experience suggesting a range of €19-€35. Another crucial consideration is transportation to and from the port, as it’s located away from Santorini town.
You’ll need to opt for driving, public transport, or private transfers, which can cost anywhere from €3 to €20 per person, depending on your choice. Lastly, don’t forget about food expenses, including any meals you might enjoy at the port’s tavernas or ferries’ onboard dining options. A maximum of €15 per person should cover most needs, but be prepared for some indulgence.
Where to book ferry tickets for Santorini Ferry Port
Prior to sharing our tale of navigating the chaos at Santorini ferry port, it’s essential to cover the basics. Specifically, where and how to purchase your ferry tickets. This crucial step can make a significant impact on your overall experience, not to mention your wallet. In this section, we’ll walk you through the process of securing your ticket, so you’re prepared for a smooth departure from the port.
Santorini ferry routes during peak season
During summer, Santorini is in its peak season, with June to early September being the busiest period. This is when numerous ferries operate between Santorini and other Greek Islands, making it an ideal time for island-hopping. Ferries run from Ios, Tinos, and even Athens, but most are not direct and stop at multiple islands before reaching Santorini. To ensure a smooth journey, book your ferry tickets online well in advance, especially if you’re traveling with a car.
If you’re on foot, aim to book at least a month prior to secure the best departure and arrival times. Waiting until the last minute might leave you stuck with no preferred ferries. If you’ve already arrived in Greece, don’t worry – ferry tickets can still be purchased at the port. On larger islands, you’ll find port shops selling tickets, while smaller islands may require a sign hunt or asking locals for assistance.
As an insider tip, when booking online, your tickets will typically arrive via email, which you can then upload to the Visit Greece app on your phone for convenient storage. In rare cases, confirmation emails might request that you collect your tickets at the port the day before, the day of, or even an hour prior to departure.
Another insider tip is that if you’re only traveling by foot and not with a vehicle, you may still find last-minute ferry tickets available – but waiting too long will likely result in more expensive fares. Booking in advance can help save you money on your Santorini ferry tickets.
Santorini ferry routes during low season
During the low season, the ferry network in Greece undergoes a significant transformation. While some routes remain operational throughout the year, others are scaled back or suspended altogether due to the reduced demand. For instance, the Mykonos to Santorini route typically offers daily ferries from March to October, making it impractical for travel outside of this period.
If you’re looking for an alternative experience, consider a 5-day private tour that includes transportation between both islands. The Crete to Santorini route also follows a similar pattern, with daily departures during the peak season but reduced frequencies or even closures during the low season. On the other hand, the Naxos, Paros, and Ios routes to Santorini remain open year-round, albeit with less frequent sailings during the low season.
When traveling to the Greek Islands from Athens, you can expect at least one ferry per island per day throughout the year. However, this may mean that during the low season, you’ll need to take a ferry to Athens before continuing on to another island, including Santorini. This option is more costly and time-consuming. To ensure a smooth journey, it’s essential to check which routes are open before your trip.
As these schedules can change from year to year, verify the information on official websites like FerryScanner or directly with the ferry operators. Additionally, book your tickets online to guarantee that your chosen route is available.
Santorini ferry port conditions
Our horrific first experience at Santorini ferry port
Our first experience with Santorini’s ferry port was overwhelming to say the least. We had arrived on the island after a week-long stay in Ios Island, looking forward to exploring its famous beaches. But what awaited us was chaos. A sea of people filled the port, both arriving and waiting to board the ferry. It was like nothing we’d ever seen before. When we finally made it through the crowds, we were approached by several individuals selling shuttle tickets.
They would touch our arms, try to grab our attention, and demand that we follow them. Some even grabbed our suitcase and started walking off without answering our questions about prices or schedules. It was as if they had a hidden agenda, forcing us to buy their services under the threat of losing our belongings. We eventually ended up at a counter with a kind lady who sold us two shuttle tickets for €20 each.
We paid a total of €40 and hopped on the bus, only to realize that it stopped at every hotel along the way. The entire journey took an hour, making us grateful when we finally arrived at the airport. It was an experience we wouldn’t soon forget. In fact, we learned our lesson so well that the next time we visited Santorini, we did things differently.
What we recommend for your travel budget
When it comes to negotiating tickets, especially during peak season, every little bit counts. While you might not be able to secure significant discounts, even a €5 per person reduction can add up to €10 in savings – a notable sum! However, during the shoulder season, there’s often more room for negotiation. One strategy we found effective was exuding confidence and showing that we were indifferent to which shuttle service we chose.
This nonchalant attitude seemed to put us at an advantage when negotiating, ultimately resulting in better deals.
What we recommend for your time
Typically, navigating through chaotic traffic can take around an hour, making it essential to plan your flight or rental car pickup time with precision, particularly during peak travel seasons when roads are congested. Allow for extra time to ensure a smooth departure, taking into account the unpredictable nature of heavy traffic and potential delays.
Transportation to and from Santorini ferry port
Santorini’s Athinios port is located at some distance from the main towns like Fira, Oia, Kamari and Pyrgos, making it an isolated area accessible only through one road. As a result, walking to or from the port is not feasible. Visitors to Santorini will need to rely on transportation options to move around, regardless of their destination. The island offers various means of transportation to and from the ferry port, which can be overwhelming if left until the last minute.
However, by planning ahead, travelers can choose an option that fits their budget and preferences, whether they’re looking for a budget-friendly or luxurious experience.
Buses, the cheapest option to leave or go to Santorini ferry port
The bus is a convenient option for traveling between Athinios, where ferries arrive and depart, and Fira, the capital town of Santorini. The ticket costs approximately €2.30, which can be paid to the driver when you board. However, note that only cash is accepted, so make sure to have some on hand, preferably in small bills to avoid any issues. All buses are parked on the left side of the port at the bus station, making them easy to spot.
The buses operate according to ferry schedules, which ensures a steady stream of vehicles departing from and arriving at the port. This means you shouldn’t encounter any difficulties finding a bus when you need one. Furthermore, all buses from Athinios head directly to Fira, so if that’s your destination, taking the bus is a budget-friendly option. On the other hand, if your ultimate destination lies elsewhere, you’ll need to take another bus from Fira.
The bus stop in Fira can appear chaotic at first, but with some patience and attention to signs, you should be able to navigate it without issue. If you’re unsure or don’t speak Greek, don’t hesitate to ask fellow travelers or the drivers for assistance – they tend to be friendly and helpful. In addition to traveling from Athinios to Fira, there are also buses available in the opposite direction, departing from Fira and heading back to the port.
As with the initial route, these buses follow ferry schedules, which may vary depending on the day. Be sure to check that a bus is available at your preferred departure time. It’s worth noting that while all buses from Athinios head to Fira, there is one dedicated airport route during the summer months. However, this service is not strictly timed, so you might encounter brief delays or waits of up to an hour before boarding the bus.
On the other hand, if your destination lies in Oia, another popular town on Santorini, be aware that there is no direct bus from Athinios and instead need to take a bus to Fira, then transfer to another bus heading to Oia (the second leg of which costs approximately €1.80).
Hotel transfer to and from Santorini port
When arriving at Santorini ferry port, or departing from it, arranging a hotel pick up or drop off is a convenient option to consider. Many hotels in the area are well-versed in the challenges posed by the port and its surroundings, so they anticipate that you may require assistance getting to or from your accommodation. While some hotels might offer complimentary transfers as a perk, others will charge a small fee for this service, typically ranging between €10 and €20.
Athinios Port transfer by taxi
When arriving on Santorini’s island, travelers should be aware that there is a limited supply of taxis available. In fact, we wouldn’t rely too heavily on them to get around, especially if you’re trying to catch a ferry on time. The waiting list for a taxi can be quite long, and missing your ferry due to transportation issues is not ideal. Once you disembark at the port, there might be a few taxis stationed nearby, primarily located near the bus stop.
To avoid disappointment, we recommend disembarking first to increase your chances of securing one. Keep in mind that these taxis are not budget-friendly options. However, if you do manage to snag one, it can provide a relatively quicker escape from the chaos. Before embarking on your journey, make sure to ask your driver about the fare and negotiate the price accordingly. During peak season, prices may be higher, so it’s essential to agree on a fair rate upfront.
If language becomes an issue, don’t hesitate to request that the driver writes down the agreed-upon price to avoid any misunderstandings. The ride from Athinios to Fira typically costs around €35 and to Oia around €40. Cash is the only accepted form of payment. It’s worth noting that taxi fares are generally higher at night. Due to their limited capacity, taxis can only accommodate four passengers at a time.
For larger groups, we recommend utilizing public transportation or shuttle services instead.
Car rental from Santorini port
Renting a car in Santorini can be a breeze if you follow our advice. We recommend picking up your vehicle from the airport or downtown Fira. The airport option is often more straightforward and less stressful, as we discovered during our recent trip. The small and easily navigable airport makes it simple to grab your rental car on the left side of the departures area. Alternatively, you can arrange for your car to be picked up at the Santorini ferry port.
However, we would caution against this option due to three main reasons. Firstly, the port is chaotic with pedestrians, luggage, and kids, making it an unpleasant experience. Secondly, picking up your car at the port tends to be more expensive in our experience. Lastly, be aware that the road to the top of the cliffs is steep and treacherous, with sharp turns and congested traffic. While we’re confident drivers, we didn’t regret avoiding this route!
In contrast, the airport shuttle provides a hassle-free and cost-effective way to get your rental car.
Private car and shuttle from Santorini ferry port
Getting out of Athinios port in Santorini couldn’t be easier. On our two visits to the island, we’ve developed a reliable strategy for departing the port without breaking the bank. After an initial, pricey experience that didn’t quite live up to expectations, we discovered a more affordable solution on our second trip – a mere €15 total! It’s essential to take note of your options and plan ahead, ensuring a smooth arrival in Santorini.
When hailing a shuttle, don’t forget to negotiate the price upfront to get the best deal. These shared rides can drop you off at various locations, including the airport, your hotel, or the town centre. Just be aware that you might not be the first to disembark, as you’ll likely share the ride with other travelers.
How early should you arrive at Santorini ferry port before departure?
When departing Santorini by ferry, plan to arrive at the port at least one hour prior to departure. The small port can get crowded quickly, making it essential to arrive early and avoid last-minute rushes. Don’t forget to bring a hat, water, and other essentials to make your wait more comfortable, especially during the summer months. To streamline the process, have your tickets readily available on your phone. Ensure they feature a barcode or QR code, as this indicates an actual ticket.
If not, you’ll need to pick up physical copies at the port. Be sure to schedule sufficient time for this. At the port, you’ll find two travel agencies: Nomikos and Dakoutros. Both sell tickets, but if you’ve already booked online and need to collect your tickets, head to Nomikos. Double-check your confirmation email for any specific instructions or updates on ticket collection.
For instance, it may state that you can pick up your tickets in Fira the day before, so always check your email for the most accurate information.
Practical information on Santorini ferry port
As you approach the ferry terminal, you’ll begin by navigating the car deck before securing your luggage and making your way upstairs to the pedestrian levels. It’s essential to keep valuable items with you and avoid leaving them unattended on the lower level where cars are parked. Once you’ve settled in, take some time to familiarize yourself with the onboard amenities, including snack food options and refreshments.
When it comes to ferry schedules, be aware that companies may not linger for extended periods, so be prepared to disembark when requested. Some ferries feature outdoor decks, while others offer a more indoor experience. It’s also worth noting that May 1st has historically been the site of an annual strike, which may impact your travel plans if you’re island-hopping on this day.
Island hopping, as it turns out, requires booking separate tickets for each route, with no passes available for hop-to-hop travel. Onboard amenities include well-maintained washrooms and the possibility of rescheduling due to inclement weather or maintenance issues. In such cases, you’ll be notified by email, leaving ample time to adjust your itinerary. Ferry cancellations are also a possibility, but refunds will be issued in these instances.
It’s ultimately up to you to make alternative arrangements. If your ferry is cancelled, consider checking other ferries for availability, as they tend to sell out quickly. For longer routes, larger ferries may offer sleeping cabins, which can be a great perk. However, if your journey is relatively short, you might not need the extra comfort. When departing from or arriving at Santorini’s ferry port, take advantage of the mini markets and coffee shops on site.
If arriving in Santorini, you won’t find many essential goods here, as there are plenty of shops around the island to explore. On your way out of Santorini, be sure to pack sunscreen and water for comfort during the wait.
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