Athens to Santorini – Should You Take the Ferry or Fly?

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Traveling from Athens to Santorini

If you’re wondering how to get from Athens, Greece, to Santorini, you have a couple of options. First, you could take the ferry to Santorini from Athens. Your second option is to fly Aegean Airlines or Sky Express from Athens International Airport. There are pros and cons to each of these, which I will go over below, along with some frequently asked questions. It all depends on how much time you have to travel, the time of year you’re traveling, and the kind of experience you’re looking for.

Some travelers will pick Santorini as their one and only Greek Island trip, and others may be looking for something more extensive, like a 2-week Greek Island hopping itinerary. Regardless of your travel plans, it’s always best to begin your trip in Athens and go from there.

Santorini is one of the most popular Greek islands, and in my opinion, it’s a good idea to spend about 4 Days in Santorini. If you’re fortunate enough to be visiting Greece, it’s definitely a place that should not be missed. So, let’s get ready to do some island hopping!

How to Get from Athens to Santorini by Ferry Ride

The Athens to Santorini ferry allows you to enjoy the beautiful Aegean Sea. The downside is that, depending on the time of year, it may be difficult to get a boat from Athens to Santorini. In the off-season, there are only 2 boats a day making the trip. Another con is the time it takes to make the trip. The ferry time from Athens to Santorini can be as much as 7 hours. You’ll get there far more quickly if you book a flight. But some people prefer the relaxing scenic trip to sitting on a packed airplane.

Making the Trip From Athens to Santorini: Ferry Options

During the peak season, there are at least 4 daily ferry crossings to Santorini from the Piraeus port in Athens. However, visiting Greece in November, during the off-peak season, I found only 2 ferry crossings from Athens to the Athinios Ferry Port in Santorini. The times were not to my liking, and there were no high-speed ferries available. If you’re looking for fast ferries, you will only find them during peak season. Most people make the ferry trip during the peak season of June to September, when there are far more options to travel by boat and weather conditions are more favorable.

How long is the ferry from Athens to Santorini?

The trip takes anywhere from 4 to 7 hours, depending on the type of ferry you choose. Fast ferries or high-speed ferry options will get you there in just 4 hours. Conventional ferries take up to 7 hours. You can click on my handy tool below to get ferry schedules and ferry routes.

What is the ferry price from Athens to Santorini?

Traveling by ferry is cheaper than taking a plane. Ferry tickets between Athens and Santorini cost around 35€-56€, depending on whether you take a conventional or high-speed ferry. Pro tip: if you book your Santorini ferry tickets in advance, you can take advantage of the early-booking offers, which reduce the cost of your ticket to 30€.

Which port should I leave from, Piraeus or Rafina?

I recommend Piraeus if you plan to stay in Athens before your trip to Santorini. This port is closer to Athens city center and easily accessible by metro, taxi, or bus. Most ferries between Athens and Santorini depart around 7 am. Tickets cost 35€-60€.

I recommend Rafina if you’re heading directly to the port after your flight into Athens or if you’re looking to make a stop in Mykonos. Ferries from Athens to Santorini out of Rafina usually depart at 7:30 am and 4 pm. Ticket prices start at 56€. The Rafina to Santorini route is operated by SeaJets, Blue Star Ferries, and Golden Star Ferries. The Athens to Santorini ferry trip takes about 5 hours.

Booking is easy. Use the handy tool below to book ferry tickets today through Blue Star Ferry.

Here are the links to all of the various ferries from Athens to Santorini so you can check timetables and prices on the Athens Santorini route.

Ferry Operators:

Blue Star Ferry

Seajets

Golden Star Ferries

Ferry Wheelchair Accessibility

Most large vessels from Athens to Santorini are wheelchair accessible. The ferry offers accessible ramps and handrails, wheelchair anchor points with safety belts, accessible toilets, and designated parking spots. However, it is recommended that you notify the ferry company at least 48 hours in advance of departure if you are traveling with a wheelchair so they may accommodate you onboard. The ferry company can give you further details about necessary arrival times and access to the port in Thira.

According to European Union law, ferry companies in Greece must provide passengers with reduced mobility or other disabilities with all necessary help and accessible options for their trip.

Athens Greece to Santorini by Plane

If you want to get to Santorini quickly, your best bet is to purchase round-trip tickets on one of the many flights. Athens to Santorini flights last 45 minutes, and there are several flights a day, even during the off-season.

Flights from Athens to Santorini, Greece, take off several times a day from Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos. During my stay in Greece, I opted to take the plane. I used miles, making the trip free, and I was able to pick a better arrival time given the slim pickings when it comes to ferry options in the off-season.

For the best airfare prices, check out Skyscanner:

Airlines that Fly From Athens to Santorini

You have a couple of options if the fast ferry from Athens to Santorini isn’t fast enough for you. Avoid the Santorini ferry and fly directly into the Santorini airport. There is only one baggage carousel in Santorini, so finding your bags is easy. From here, you can proceed directly to the car rental desk, or opt to have your hotel pick you up. Taxis are expensive and best avoided if possible.

Sky Express

Aegean

No Matter How You Get There, Enjoy Beautiful Santorini!

Now that you know how to get from Athens to Santorini, I hope you enjoy your trip. Santorini is gorgeous no matter which time of year you choose to visit. If you happen to go in the off-season like me (October to May), you’ll have the place largely to yourself and be able to capture beautiful photos without the crowds. However, the downside, most of the restaurants and shops will be closed. There are still a few places to grab something to eat and a few cute shops to purchase souvenirs and groceries. Santorini is beautiful year-round, so don’t be put off by the naysayers who say to avoid the off-season.

FAQs About Traveling From Athens to Santorini: Ferry or Flight?

Is it better to fly or take the ferry from Athens to Santorini?

I’d generally choose flying for a short trip, especially if you’re already at Athens Airport. The ferry makes more sense if you enjoy sea travel, want to include other islands, or prefer an option that may let you remain in your wheelchair. Compare the complete journey—including transfers, boarding, and arrival transportation—rather than just the ticket price.

How long is the flight from Athens to Santorini?

A direct flight typically takes around 50 minutes to one hour. However, you’ll also need time for airport transportation, check-in, security, and baggage collection. Flying is a short hop, but it isn’t a one-hour journey from your Athens hotel to your Santorini hotel. Check your specific departure on the Athens–Santorini flight listings.

How long is the ferry from Athens to Santorini?

Ferries from Piraeus to Santorini generally take around five hours to more than eleven hours, depending on the vessel and intermediate stops. Faster doesn’t necessarily mean more comfortable, so compare the ship and seating options as well as the crossing time. Check the current Piraeus–Santorini ferry schedules for your dates.

Is the ferry cheaper than flying to Santorini?

Sometimes, but not always. Compare the total cost of flights with baggage against ferry tickets with your preferred seating or cabin. Include transportation to the airport or port at both ends. An inexpensive airfare can become less appealing after extras, while a fast ferry or private cabin can cost more than you expect.

Which Athens port has ferries to Santorini?

Piraeus is the main departure port for year-round ferry services to Santorini. Check the port and departure gate on your booking carefully, since “Athens” doesn’t mean the ferry leaves near your hotel or the airport. Allow plenty of time to reach the correct boarding area. See the Piraeus–Santorini route guide.

Where do ferries arrive in Santorini?

Scheduled passenger ferries from Piraeus arrive at Athinios, Santorini’s main ferry port. Arrange onward transportation to your accommodation and confirm the meeting point with your driver. If you need a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, book it ahead of time rather than assuming one will be waiting at the port. Arrival details are listed in the ferry route information.

Are Athens-to-Santorini ferries wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility depends on the specific ship and sailing. Ask the operator about boarding ramps, elevators, accessible toilets, seating, and cabins before purchasing tickets. Most importantly, confirm a continuous step-free route from boarding to the facilities you need. A ship having an elevator doesn’t establish that every part of your journey will work for you. Blue Star publishes facilities for individual vessels, such as the Blue Star 2.

Can you fly to Santorini with a wheelchair?

Yes, with arrangements appropriate to your mobility needs and device. Tell the airline whether you need boarding assistance, help reaching your seat, or transport for a powered wheelchair. AEGEAN asks passengers to request assistance at least 48 hours before departure. Confirm device dimensions, battery requirements, and transfer arrangements directly with your airline. See AEGEAN’s accessible travel guide.

Which option is better for travelers with chronic illness or limited energy?

Flying reduces journey time, but airport procedures and transfers can still be demanding. A suitable ferry may offer more room to move or an opportunity to rest in a cabin, although the crossing is much longer. Choose based on what is hardest for you: prolonged travel, transferring seats, navigating terminals, or motion at sea. There isn’t one answer that suits every disabled traveler.

Is a high-speed ferry better than a conventional ferry?

A high-speed ferry can save time, while a larger conventional ferry may offer a more comfortable ride in rough conditions. Facilities vary by vessel, so check whether your sailing offers the seating, cabin or outdoor access you want. If seasickness is a major concern, don’t choose solely by the shortest crossing time. This flight-versus-ferry guide discusses the trade-offs.

Do flights and ferries operate between Athens and Santorini in winter?

Both options are available in winter, although schedules and frequencies change with the season. AEGEAN sells winter flights on the route, and Piraeus–Santorini ferries operate year-round. Check your exact dates before booking accommodation, especially for a short stay. Review AEGEAN’s flight availability and winter ferry options.

Can bad weather disrupt the journey to Santorini?

Yes. Rough seas and strong winds can delay or cancel ferry departures, and flights can also be disrupted. Keep essential medication and overnight necessities with you, and avoid making your return to Athens depend on a tight connection to an international flight. Check the operator’s procedures if your sailing changes; Blue Star explains its policy in its travel conditions.

Should you book Athens-to-Santorini transportation in advance?

Advance booking is sensible when you need a particular departure, cabin, or accessibility arrangement. Confirm essential facilities before paying and review change or cancellation terms. For travelers with mobility needs, having the right arrangements matters more than grabbing the first inexpensive ticket.

How do you get from Santorini Airport to your hotel?

Options include a prearranged transfer, taxi, or public bus to Fira. The airport confirms a bus connection with Fira, but your accommodation may require an additional journey. If you need step-free transportation, confirm the vehicle and hotel drop-off access in advance. See the official Santorini Airport transportation information.

Can you visit Santorini as a day trip from Athens?