
How to Get From Athens to Santorini: 5 Fast and Scenic Routes for Island-Bound Travelers
Planning a trip from Athens to Santorini? You’ve got options!
This popular Greek island route can be traveled by either plane or ferry, and both offer very different vibes for your journey.
The fastest way to reach Santorini from Athens is by plane, with flights taking only about 45 minutes. If you prefer scenic views and a more relaxed pace, ferries are a great alternative.
Ferry journeys vary from 4-10 hours depending on whether you choose a high-speed or conventional vessel. The Eurochampion Jet is the fastest ferry option, completing the trip in around 5 hours.
Many travelers like to leave Athens early in the morning from Piraeus port, which connects to the airport by bus. During peak season, you really need to book ahead—flights and ferries fill up fast with folks eager for Santorini’s white-washed buildings and those famous sunsets.
Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Main Routes from Athens to Santorini
- Traveling by Ferry
- Taking a Direct Flight
- Alternative Connections via Islands
- Ferry Options and Companies
- Blue Star Ferries
- SeaJets and High-Speed Ferries
- Golden Star Ferries
- Minoan Lines and Other Operators
- Choosing the Right Port in Athens
- Piraeus Ferry Port
- Rafina Port
- Booking Ferry Tickets and Schedules
- Timetables and Ferry Schedules
- Where to Buy Tickets
- Ticket Prices and Costs
- Onboard Ferry Experience
- Cabins and Private Seating Options
- Business, VIP, and Lounge Classes
- Dining, Bars, and Entertainment
- Tips for Seasickness and Comfort
- Understanding Flight Options to Santorini
- Major Airlines and Carriers
- Flight Times and Schedules
- Booking Flights and Finding Deals
- Getting to and from the Airports
- Transport from Athens City Centre to Athens Airport
- Connections from Santorini Airport to Your Hotel
- High Season vs Low Season Travel
- Best Time for Affordable Tickets
- How High Season Affects Schedules
- Comparing Ferry and Flight: Costs, Duration, and Experience
- Travel Duration and Distance
- Overall Costs and Value
- Most Scenic or Comfortable Way
- Alternative Transport Options and Special Cases
- Bus and Train Connections
- Transit via Paros, Naxos, Mykonos, and Ios
- Cruise Ships to Santorini
- Arriving in Santorini: Ports and Accessibility
- Athinios Port: Main Arrival Point
- Transfers to Fira, Oia, and Other Destinations
- Expert Travel Tips and Unique Insights
- Booking in Advance vs Last Minute
- Handling Strong Winds and Delays
- Choosing Between Slow and Fast Ferries
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the available modes of transportation for traveling between Athens and Santorini?
- Can you provide tips for booking a ferry from Athens to Santorini?
- Is there a direct flight option from Athens to Santorini, and if so, what is the typical duration?
- Are car rental services an option for the trip between Athens and Santorini, and what should one consider?
- From a local’s perspective, what would be the recommended travel method to Santorini from Athens for a first-time visitor?
- What travel tips should one be aware of when journeying from Athens to Santorini during peak tourist season?
- More Travel Guides
Key Takeaways
- Flights get you there in 45 minutes, while ferries offer a scenic 4-10 hour ride depending on the vessel.
- Book ahead in high season—things sell out quickly.
- Think about your arrival port in Santorini and your onward travel plans.
Main Routes from Athens to Santorini
Travelers have a few options to reach the stunning island of Santorini from Athens. Each route has its perks depending on your budget, schedule, and what kind of experience you want.
Traveling by Ferry

Ferries are a classic way to get from Athens to Santorini. You can catch one from either Piraeus (the main port) or the smaller Rafina port, which sits closer to Athens International Airport.
Blue Star Ferries runs conventional ferries that take about 7-8 hours to reach Santorini. These bigger ships feel steadier when the sea gets rough and have amenities like restaurants and outdoor decks.
High-speed ferries cut the trip to about 5 hours but usually cost more. Tickets for these start at around €82.
The earliest ferries usually leave around 7:15 AM. You can reach Piraeus from central Athens by:
- Metro: Line 1 (Green Line)
- Bus: Several routes head to the port
- Taxi: Most direct, but expect to pay more
In summer, booking ferry tickets in advance is just smart—this route gets packed with tourists.
Taking a Direct Flight
Flying is the quickest way to Santorini, with the journey itself lasting only 45-50 minutes. Several airlines run direct flights from Athens International Airport (ATH) to Santorini Airport (JTR).
Flights ramp up during peak season (May through October). You’ll find multiple daily departures, so there’s flexibility.
Ticket prices swing a lot depending on:
- The season (summer’s priciest)
- How early you book
- Time of day
- The airline
Flying saves a lot of time, but let’s be honest, you won’t get those sea views or glimpses of other Greek islands.
For weddings or big events in Santorini, snag your flight tickets as early as possible. Even mid-September can be busy, so don’t wait too long.
Alternative Connections via Islands
If you’re not in a rush, why not island-hop your way from Athens to Santorini? You’ll get to see more of Greece along the way.
Popular stops include:
- Mykonos: Beaches and nightlife galore
- Paros: Charming villages and seriously good food
- Naxos: Gorgeous landscapes and ancient ruins
Greece’s ferry network makes these connections easy in summer. In winter, things slow down.
Island hopping takes a bit of planning—you’ll need to juggle ferry schedules. Each stop adds at least a day, but honestly, it’s worth it if you have the time.
This route works best if you’ve got at least a week to play with. Spend a night or two on each island before heading to Santorini.
Ferry Options and Companies
Several ferry companies cover the Athens-Santorini route, each with their own vibe, speeds, and price points. Your pick really depends on your budget, timing, and whether you want comfort or speed.
Blue Star Ferries
Blue Star is the go-to for many heading to Santorini. Their big conventional ferries are stable, comfy, and reliable.
The trip takes about 8 hours—slower than the high-speed ones, but they handle rough seas better.
Blue Star ferries leave daily from Piraeus (usually early, around 7:30 AM). Deck class tickets start near €40, while cabins cost more but give you privacy and a bed.
These ships have indoor lounges, cafes, and outdoor decks for sea views. A lot of travelers love Blue Star for the stops at Paros and Naxos.
If you’re on a budget and not in a hurry, Blue Star’s value and reliability are tough to beat.
SeaJets and High-Speed Ferries
When time matters, SeaJets runs some of the fastest boats between Athens and Santorini. Their high-speed catamarans and hydrofoils make the trip in 4-5 hours—almost half the time of regular ferries!
SeaJets tickets usually start at €60-80 one-way. They run more often in summer (May-October) and scale back in winter.
These smaller boats can get bumpy in rough seas, though. Seasickness is more common on high-speed ferries when the water’s choppy.
Most SeaJets depart from Piraeus, but some leave from Rafina (closer to the airport). They skip a lot of stops, so you’ll get to Santorini faster.
If you’re short on time and don’t mind paying more, high-speed is the way to go.
Golden Star Ferries
Golden Star Ferries is a newer name on the Athens-Santorini route but has gained fans quickly. They run both conventional and high-speed ships, so you can pick whatever suits you.
Their SuperFerry offers a comfy ride for prices similar to Blue Star, and their high-speed Superrunner competes with SeaJets on time.
Tickets usually run €40-70 depending on the vessel and season. Golden Star Ferries gets good marks for clean ships and solid customer service.
In summer, they add more sailings. Most boats leave from Piraeus and may stop at Paros, Naxos, or Ios.
If Blue Star or SeaJets are sold out, Golden Star’s a solid backup.
Minoan Lines and Other Operators
Minoan Lines sometimes runs routes to Santorini, but not as often as the bigger names. Their large ships have nice amenities and decent service when they’re available.
A few smaller companies—like Zante Ferries and Fast Ferries—also serve this route during certain seasons. They don’t always run year-round and offer fewer sailings.
In the summer rush, these smaller operators can be a lifesaver if the main ferries are booked up. Prices and times vary a lot, so it’s worth comparing.
Ferry schedules change with the seasons: more options in summer (June-September), fewer in winter. Always double-check current timetables before you book.
Sometimes, these smaller ferries still have seats when the big ones are full.
Choosing the Right Port in Athens
Athens has a couple of ports for ferries to Santorini, and your choice can save you time or stress. It mostly depends on where you’re staying and your schedule.
Piraeus Ferry Port
Piraeus is Athens’ main port and usually the best bet for Santorini. It’s just 30 minutes from the city center by metro—super convenient if you’re staying downtown.
The blue metro line takes you right to the port, so you won’t have to wrestle with taxis or buses in a strange city.
This port is busy and has the most frequent Santorini ferries all year. In summer, there are several departures daily; in the off-season, at least a few a week.
Piraeus is huge, and it can be confusing. Ferry gates are numbered—your ticket tells you which one. Arrive at least 45 minutes early so you don’t have to rush.
Rafina Port
Rafina is Athens’ second port, offering another way to get to Santorini. It’s on the eastern side of Attica, closer to the airport (about 30 minutes by taxi or bus).
If you’re flying in and want to head straight to Santorini, Rafina might save you the hassle of crossing Athens traffic.
The trade-off? Rafina has fewer ferries to Santorini, especially outside summer. The ships are smaller and can be more affected by rough seas.
Buses connect Athens city center to Rafina, but they’re not as frequent as the metro to Piraeus. Expect the ride to take around an hour, depending on traffic.
Booking Ferry Tickets and Schedules
Planning your ferry journey from Athens to Santorini takes a bit of prep. Most travelers find the ferry both scenic and affordable, especially with multiple daily departures in peak season.
Timetables and Ferry Schedules
During high season (May-September), ferries from Athens to Santorini run about 8 times a day. The trip takes anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, depending on which ferry you pick.
High-speed ferries wrap things up in about 4-5 hours, but you’ll pay more. Conventional ferries are slower (7-8 hours) but cost less.
Most ferries leave Piraeus early—think 7:00 AM. Afternoon departures exist, but they’re rarer.
In winter (November-March), service drops to 1-2 ferries a day. Always check the latest schedule for your dates—things change with the seasons.
Bad weather, especially in winter, can delay or cancel ferries. Build in some wiggle room just in case.
Where to Buy Tickets
You’ve got a few ways to buy ferry tickets from Athens to Santorini. The easiest? Book online through sites like Ferryhopper, which let you compare prices and times.
Booking online is a must in peak season (June-August)—ferries can and do sell out. Try to book 2-3 months ahead for summer.
Travel agencies in Athens also sell tickets, which can be handy if you want advice or have a complex itinerary.
You can buy tickets at the Piraeus port, but honestly, during high season, that’s risky. Popular routes sell out fast.
Most booking platforms offer e-tickets, so you can just show your phone at boarding—no need to print.
Ticket Prices and Costs
Ferry tickets from Athens to Santorini start at about €35-44 for economy seats on the slower ferries. High-speed tickets usually cost €55-80 per person.
Prices depend on:
- The ferry type (conventional or high-speed)
- Seat class (deck, airline-style, business)
- Season (peak or off-peak)
- How early you book
Conventional ferries are the cheapest way to get to Santorini if you’re on a budget. They’re basic but comfortable enough.
Bringing a car? That’s an extra €70-100, depending on size. Motorcycles cost less, about €30-40.
Some companies discount tickets for kids, students, or seniors—worth checking when you book.
Online booking usually adds a small fee, maybe €1-2 per ticket, but it’s not a dealbreaker.
Onboard Ferry Experience
The ferry ride from Athens to Santorini can be surprisingly comfy if you pick the right company and vessel. Each ferry offers its own mix of service classes and amenities, so you can tailor the trip to your comfort level and budget.
Cabins and Private Seating Options
Most larger ferries running between Athens and Santorini offer cabins for travelers seeking privacy or a place to rest on the longer crossings, which can last anywhere from five to eight hours.
You’ll find everything from basic interior rooms to more spacious exterior cabins with windows or portholes.
Interior cabins are the most affordable private option. Usually, they have two to four berths and simple bedding.
They’re windowless, but honestly, it’s a quiet spot to nap or stash your luggage safely.
Exterior cabins cost more but let in natural light and show off sea views. Some premium options even have private bathrooms with showers—a real treat on a long voyage.
If a full cabin feels like overkill, you can reserve airplane-style seats in different sections of most ferries. These assigned seats guarantee you a spot without the price tag of a cabin.
Business, VIP, and Lounge Classes
If you want a comfier ride but don’t need a private cabin, premium class options step things up a notch.
Business class usually means wider, cushier seats in quieter parts of the ship.
VIP lounges show up on most larger ferries, offering plush seating, better views, and a peaceful vibe.
You’ll often get complimentary snacks and drinks, plus dedicated attendants.
Some premium vessels take it further with exclusive club lounges featuring panoramic windows and high-end furnishings.
These spaces usually have controlled access, so they’re rarely crowded.
During the busy summer, the extra cost for business or VIP class can really pay off. You get priority boarding and disembarkation, which feels like a lifesaver in the chaos of Santorini port.
Dining, Bars, and Entertainment
On the bigger ferries, you’ll find several food options—casual cafes, snack bars, and sometimes sit-down restaurants.
Quality varies, but you’ll usually see Greek classics like souvlaki, Greek salad, and pastries, plus some international basics.
Ship bars serve Greek coffee, local beers, and wines. Prices run a bit higher than on land, but that’s kind of expected when you’re out at sea.
Entertainment on modern ferries might include:
- Free Wi-Fi (though it can drop out mid-journey)
- Charging stations for your phone or laptop
- Movie screens in some lounges
- Small shops selling snacks, travel gear, and souvenirs
A few premium ferries even have outdoor decks with seating, so you can soak up the Aegean breeze and those island views as you cruise toward Santorini.
Tips for Seasickness and Comfort
The Athens-Santorini route crosses open water, and it gets choppy, especially when the Aegean winds pick up.
If you get seasick, definitely book a spot on a bigger ferry—they handle rough seas better.
Take motion sickness meds about an hour before you set sail. Some people swear by those wristbands that press on your wrists to ease nausea.
Pick a seat in the middle of the ship for the smoothest ride. Staring at the horizon helps, too.
Layer up—indoor air conditioning can be freezing, but outside it might be hot and windy. Bring a light jacket, a hat, and sunscreen if you’re planning to hang out on deck.
Pack something to keep you entertained, like a book, podcasts, or downloaded shows. Even the fastest ferries take a while to reach Santorini.
Understanding Flight Options to Santorini
Flying from Athens to Santorini is the fastest way to get to this gorgeous Greek island.
Several airlines fly the route, with different schedules and prices throughout the year.
Major Airlines and Carriers
Aegean Airlines, Greece’s flagship carrier, runs the most frequent service between Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) and Santorini Airport (JTR).
They often offer multiple flights a day, especially in peak season.
Olympic Air, now part of Aegean, also flies the route with smaller planes.
If you’re on a budget, Ryanair has cheaper fares, but their schedule can be limited depending on the season.
Other options worth a look:
- Sky Express, a Greek airline with solid prices
- Volotea, which connects Santorini with Athens and some European cities
Each airline has its own baggage rules and in-flight services. Aegean offers a bit more comfort, while Ryanair keeps things basic and charges for extras.
Flight Times and Schedules
The flight from Athens to Santorini is quick—just about 45 minutes in the air.
That beats the ferry by a long shot, since those crossings can take five to eight hours.
In summer (May-September), flights run often—sometimes 15 to 20 departures a day across all airlines.
You can fly out as early as 5:30 AM or as late as 10:30 PM.
In winter, schedules shrink to maybe three to five flights daily. Some budget airlines cut back or stop altogether in the off-season.
Weather can mess with flights, especially in winter. Strong winds sometimes delay or cancel departures. Been there, had to spend an extra night in Athens once because of it!
Booking Flights and Finding Deals
To snag the best fares, book your Athens-Santorini flight two to three months in advance, especially for June through August.
Prices can double or even triple if you wait until the last minute.
Sites like Skyscanner or Google Flights make it easy to compare airlines. Sometimes, booking directly with the airline gets you a special deal, so it’s worth checking.
Typical one-way fares:
- €40-80 with budget airlines (Ryanair, Volotea)
- €70-150 with Aegean or Sky Express
If your schedule is flexible, flying midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday) can save you money.
If you’ll be flying around Greece more than once, join a frequent flyer program. Aegean’s Miles+Bonus can get you a free flight after just a few trips.
Getting to and from the Airports
Athens and Santorini airports are your entry points, and getting to and from them isn’t usually a hassle.
You’ve got multiple transportation options to fit your budget and style.
Transport from Athens City Centre to Athens Airport
Athens International Airport sits about 30 kilometers from downtown.
The Athens Metro Line 3 (blue line) is probably the easiest way to get there. Trains run every 30 minutes from 6:30 am to 11:30 pm and take about 40 minutes. One-way tickets are roughly €10.
Buses are cheaper. The X95 express bus links Syntagma Square to the airport, and the X96 goes from Piraeus port. These run 24/7 and take 45-60 minutes depending on traffic. Tickets cost about €6.
If you’re pressed for time or have a ton of luggage, taxis are handy. Expect to pay around €38 during the day, or €54 at night. In high season, pre-book your taxi to avoid long waits.
Connections from Santorini Airport to Your Hotel
Santorini’s airport is tiny and doesn’t have a ton of public transportation.
The main bus connects the airport to Fira (the island’s capital) and costs about €2. The schedule usually lines up with flights, but sometimes it’s a bit hit or miss.
Most visitors go for pre-arranged hotel transfers. Lots of hotels offer free airport pickups—definitely ask when you book.
Taxis wait outside the airport, but they can be hard to find in peak season. You’ll pay €20-35, depending on where you’re headed. Oia is usually the priciest.
Renting a car is another option if you want to explore. Several agencies have desks at the airport, but book ahead, especially during the summer rush.
High Season vs Low Season Travel
When you’re planning your Athens to Santorini trip, timing matters—a lot.
The time of year changes everything from prices to schedules and even how crowded your ferry or flight will be.
Best Time for Affordable Tickets
If you’re trying to save, the low season (November through March) is your friend.
Ferry tickets can be up to 30% cheaper, and flights drop in price too. I’ve seen one-way flights as low as €40 in January, compared to €120 or more in August.
The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) are a sweet spot—good weather, better prices, and not as many crowds.
You’ll still find discounts, maybe 10-20% off high season rates, without the downsides of winter.
Winter travel has its quirks, though. Many ferries stop running after November 11th, so you might have to fly. On the plus side, you get empty beaches and no sunset crowds!
How High Season Affects Schedules
Summer (June through August) brings the most transportation options, but also the highest prices.
Ferries run often between Athens and Santorini, with both slow and high-speed choices. You can pick from early morning to evening departures.
Flights ramp up, too—sometimes 15 or more a day! It’s great for flexibility, but you’ll pay for it, and so will everyone else.
One thing to watch for: the meltemi winds in July and August. These strong gusts can delay or even cancel ferries. If you’re on a tight schedule, flying might be the safer bet.
Book way ahead in high season. Ferries and flights sometimes sell out weeks before departure.
Comparing Ferry and Flight: Costs, Duration, and Experience
Traveling from Athens to Santorini, you’ll face the classic question: ferry or flight?
Each has its perks, depending on your budget, time, and the kind of travel experience you’re after.
Travel Duration and Distance
Athens and Santorini sit about 240 kilometers (150 miles) apart, separated by the Aegean.
Flying is the fastest route, no contest.
A flight only takes 30-50 minutes in the air. But don’t forget to factor in airport transfers, check-in, security, and waiting around—realistically, the whole process takes two to three hours.
Ferries are slower. High-speed ferries do the trip in about 4.5 to 5 hours, while regular ferries might take 7 to 9 hours. Some overnight ferries can stretch to 10 hours.
If you’re in a rush, flying wins. But if you’ve got time, the ferry has its own charm.
Overall Costs and Value
Prices swing wildly depending on the season and how early you book.
Flight costs:
- Economy: €50-€200 one-way
- Peak summer can hit €300+
- Baggage fees likely
- Add €20-40 each way for airport transfers
Ferry costs:
- Economy seats: €30-€80
- Business: €50-€120
- Cabins: €80-€180
- Bringing a vehicle: add €70+
Off-season, ferries are usually cheaper. In peak summer, last-minute flight prices can be sky-high, while early ferry bookings stay reasonable.
Ferries also let you haul more luggage for free, which is handy for longer trips.
Most Scenic or Comfortable Way
Ferries win for scenery. Approaching Santorini by sea, you’ll see the caldera and those whitewashed cliffside villages—it’s something else.
High-speed ferries have comfy airline-style seats, cafes, and open decks. Regular ferries give you more room to wander, but take longer.
Flights are comfortable because they’re quick. You spend less time traveling and more time on the island. The aerial views are cool, but they’re brief.
If you get seasick, be careful—Aegean waters can get rough, especially in winter. In that case, flying might be the better call, even if you miss the classic sea arrival.
Alternative Transport Options and Special Cases
Ferries and flights are the usual ways to reach Santorini from Athens, but you do have other options.
Depending on your travel style, budget, or the urge to explore more islands, you can turn the journey into an adventure all its own.
Bus and Train Connections
There’s no direct bus or train from Athens to Santorini—makes sense, since the Aegean Sea sits between them. Still, buses play a big part in the trip.
KTEL buses run from Athens city center to Piraeus Port. The ride takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on how the traffic looks that day.
If you’re coming from Athens Airport, hop on the X96 bus. It runs 24/7 to Piraeus Port and usually takes around 90 minutes. Expect to pay about €6 per person.
Staying near a metro station? The train’s often quicker than the bus for getting to Piraeus. The green line (Line 1) heads straight to the port, with frequent service from early morning until midnight.
Once you get to Santorini, local buses meet most ferries and connect the port with main towns like Fira and Oia.
Transit via Paros, Naxos, Mykonos, and Ios
Turning your Athens-Santorini trip into an island-hopping adventure? Not a bad idea. Paros and Naxos are solid stops, with lots of ferries running between Athens, the islands, and Santorini.
Here’s a sample route:
- Athens to Paros (3-4 hours)
- Hang out in Paros for a couple days
- Paros to Naxos (1 hour)
- Explore Naxos for 2-3 days
- Naxos to Santorini (1-2 hours)
Mykonos sits a bit off the direct line but has legendary nightlife and gorgeous beaches. Ios, between Naxos and Santorini, is famous for wild summers and peaceful off-season beaches.
Ferry tickets between islands usually run €20-40. During the summer, book early—inter-island routes can fill up fast.
Cruise Ships to Santorini
Cruises offer a plush, all-in-one way to see Santorini and a bunch of other Greek islands. Most Eastern Mediterranean cruises leaving Athens (Piraeus) include Santorini as a major stop.
Typically, cruises give you 6-10 hours in Santorini—just enough time to check out Oia, Fira, and maybe the caldera. If you want to stay longer, you could:
- Book a one-way cruise to Santorini
- Hop off with your bags
- Head back to Athens by ferry or plane later on
Some of the big names sailing this route:
- Celestyal Cruises (Greek-owned)
- Royal Caribbean
- MSC Cruises
- Norwegian Cruise Line
Prices swing wildly, from €400 for a budget 3-day cruise up to €3000+ if you want to go all-out. These cruises usually stop at other Cycladic islands like Mykonos too—perfect for anyone wanting to sample a few places.
Arriving in Santorini: Ports and Accessibility
As your ferry nears Santorini, the cliffs and caldera views are honestly stunning. The arrival is exciting but, fair warning, the geography makes it a bit chaotic.
Athinios Port: Main Arrival Point
Almost all ferries pull into Athinios Port (the New Port), sitting at the base of a steep cliff on the island’s west side. The port’s not huge and can get packed in high season.
Facilities are basic—think a small waiting area, a couple of snack bars, a taxi stand, and a tourist info booth. Not much luxury here, just the essentials.
In summer, the port gets hectic when several ferries show up at once. You’ll probably face a bit of a crush, especially during busy hours. There’s a zigzag road up the cliffs to reach the towns—it’s a memorable ride, if nothing else.
Transfers to Fira, Oia, and Other Destinations
Once you land at Athinios Port, you’ve got a few ways to get where you’re staying.
Public Buses: Cheap (about €2-3), linking the port to Fira. From Fira, you can catch another bus to places like Oia. Buses fill up fast and don’t always sync perfectly with ferry times.
Taxis: Definitely more comfortable, but expect to pay €25-35 to Fira or €35-45 to Oia. In peak season, taxis can be scarce—sometimes you’ll wait a while.
Hotel Transfers: Many hotels offer pickups, often for about the same price as a taxi. It’s smart to arrange this ahead, especially if your place is tucked away on the caldera.
Rental Cars: You can rent a car right at the port. The drive up those cliffs is not for the faint-hearted, though!
Expert Travel Tips and Unique Insights
Planning the Athens-Santorini trip is trickier than it looks. A few insider tips can really help you sidestep the typical headaches—especially with booking strategies, unpredictable weather, and ferry options.
Booking in Advance vs Last Minute
Book your ferry tickets ahead of time—seriously, it’s just safer. In high season (May-September), prices climb and popular routes sometimes sell out.
Occasionally, I’ve found last-minute deals in the off-season (October-April). If you’re traveling in November or February, you might get discounted rates a day or two before departure. I wouldn’t bet on that if you’re going in summer, though.
For summer, book at least 3-4 months out. If you’re really planning ahead, check prices 6 months before when schedules first drop.
Most ferry companies handle bookings online now, with mobile tickets. I always keep my confirmation email handy, just in case.
Handling Strong Winds and Delays
The “meltemi” winds—if you’ve never heard of them, they’re infamous—can mess with your plans from July to September. Ferries sometimes get canceled or delayed when the gusts pick up.
I always add buffer days to my itinerary, just in case. Download your ferry company’s app for real-time updates. Have a backup plan, like staying an extra night in Athens, and consider travel insurance that covers ferry hiccups.
Bigger, slower ferries like Blue Star handle rough seas better than the fast ones. If you get seasick, bring meds and maybe splurge on a cabin for longer crossings.
Every now and then, volcanic activity in the Santorini caldera can cause extra disruptions. Worth checking with local authorities if you hear anything.
Choosing Between Slow and Fast Ferries
Blue Star ferries take about 8 hours from Athens to Santorini. They’re slower but way more stable and usually cost half as much as the speedy boats. Plus, you get open decks for fresh air and killer views.
High-speed ferries cut the trip to 4-5 hours but are pricier. Companies like SeaJets run these, but they’re less comfy in rough weather.
Here’s what to weigh:
- Budget: Slow ferries save you money
- Time: High-speed gets you there fast
- Seasickness: Bigger boats are steadier
- Experience: Slow ferries feel more classic
Personally, I love the slow ferry for daytime trips. Bring a good book, hang out on deck, and island-hop your way to Santorini.
Frequently Asked Questions
Traveling between Athens and Santorini gives you a bunch of choices—different costs, travel times, and vibes. Here are some common questions and my take on them.
What are the available modes of transportation for traveling between Athens and Santorini?
You can fly or take a ferry. Ferries leave from Piraeus and take anywhere from 4 to 10 hours, depending on whether you pick a high-speed or regular boat.
Flights are faster—Aegean, Sky Express, Ryanair, and Volotea all fly this route. The flight’s about 45 minutes, so if you’re short on time, that’s your best bet.
Ferries give you those classic sea views, but they take longer. Flights are quick, but you miss the journey.
Can you provide tips for booking a ferry from Athens to Santorini?
Book your ferry tickets ahead, especially in summer. The ferry websites make comparing prices and schedules pretty easy.
Think about what kind of experience you want. High-speed ferries cost more but shave hours off the trip. Regular ferries are cheaper but slower.
If you get seasick or you’re traveling overnight, a cabin is worth the extra money. It’s nice to have some privacy and a place to nap.
Double-check which port your ferry leaves from. Most go from Piraeus, but some leave from Rafina or Lavrio, which are farther from central Athens.
Is there a direct flight option from Athens to Santorini, and if so, what is the typical duration?
Yep, you can fly direct from Athens International to Santorini National Airport. Flights usually take 45-50 minutes—super quick.
Aegean Airlines and Sky Express run most flights, especially in peak season. Budget airlines like Ryanair and Volotea also fly the route, but with fewer departures.
Prices depend on when you book and the time of year.
Are car rental services an option for the trip between Athens and Santorini, and what should one consider?
You can’t drive all the way—Santorini’s an island. You could rent a car in Athens, drive to the port, and take a ferry that carries vehicles, but honestly, it’s expensive and kind of a hassle.
The ferry fee for cars is high, and parking on Santorini is a nightmare in summer.
It’s way easier to rent a car separately in each place. Grab one in Athens if you need it, then rent again after you arrive in Santorini.
From a local’s perspective, what would be the recommended travel method to Santorini from Athens for a first-time visitor?
If it’s your first time, I’d say take a morning ferry. Approaching Santorini by sea—those cliffs and the caldera—it’s unforgettable.
The Blue Star ferry is a solid choice. It takes about 8 hours, but it’s big, steady, and you can hang out on deck. Less chance of seasickness, too.
If you’re pressed for time, fly in the evening to maximize your days. But if you can spare it, the ferry ride is half the fun of getting to the Greek islands.
What travel tips should one be aware of when journeying from Athens to Santorini during peak tourist season?
Book your transportation at least two or three months ahead if you’re traveling between June and September. Flights and those zippy fast ferries tend to sell out fast, and prices? They shoot up the closer you get to your travel date.
Show up at the port or airport way earlier than you think you need to. Piraeus port can get absolutely packed in summer, and honestly, finding your ferry gate in that sea of people isn’t always straightforward.
Pack some motion sickness remedies if you’re planning to take the ferry. Even folks who never get seasick sometimes feel it—those smaller, speedier boats and the unpredictable Aegean can catch you off guard.