How to Get from Athens to Santorini: A Comprehensive Guide 

Traveling from Athens to Santorini is a popular trip for many tourists who want to explore the beauty of Greece. As one of the country’s most sought-after destinations, Santorini offers stunning scenery and unique architecture that makes it a must-see on many Greek itineraries. In 2024, you can choose between different modes of transportation to reach this idyllic island from Athens.

There are several ways to get from Athens to Santorini, the two main ones being by plane and ferry. Flights are the fastest and most convenient way to reach Santorini, with a travel time of around 45 minutes. There are several daily flights from Athens International Airport, making it easy to find a suitable flight schedule for your trip.

For those who prefer a more leisurely and scenic journey, crossing by ferry from the port of Piraeus is an excellent alternative. Ferry services in Greece are reliable and offer different types of vessels and ticket classes to suit different budgets and preferences.

However, this guide does not just answer the question “How to get from Athens to Santorini?”. After exploring each option (plane vs ferry), we also give you valuable tips to help you make the best choice depending on your needs and preferences.

Getting to Santorini From Athens: An Overview of Travel Options

When traveling from Athens to Santorini, there are two main options to consider: by plane or by ferry. This section will provide an overview of these options, discussing the duration, pricing, and other relevant information to make your travel experience smooth.

Traveling from Athens to Santorini by Plane

Taking a flight is the quickest and most convenient way to travel from Athens to Santorini. There are several airlines that offer this route, including Ryanair, Aegean Airlines, Olympic Air, Sky Express, and Volotea. 

Flights typically take around 45 minutes and depart from Athens International Airport, also known as Eleftherios Venizelos. Once in Santorini, you will arrive at Santorini Airport, which is close to the island’s capital city, Fira.

During the high season, flights can be more expensive, so booking in advance is recommended. Prices vary depending on the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Some airlines also offer additional services and amenities onboard, which may affect the overall cost of your flight.

Traveling from Athens to Santorini by Ferry 

Another way to travel from Athens to Santorini is by ferry. Ferries depart from both Piraeus and Rafina, with Piraeus being the most popular option as it is closer to the center of Athens.

The ferry journey from Athens to Santorini can take between 4.5 and 9 hours, depending on the type of ferry you choose. High-speed ferries take around 4.5 to 5 hours, while the traditional slow ferries usually take between 7 and 9 hours. Some popular ferry companies are Seajets, Blue Star and Golden Star Ferries.

Ferry ticket prices vary depending on the operator, type of ferry and ticket class. For example, an economy class ticket on the Blue Star ferry costs around €30-50 per person, while prices for high-speed ferries can be higher. It is advisable to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially in high season when seats can sell out quickly.

When you arrive in Santorini, you will dock at the port of Athinios, from where you can take a bus or taxi to your desired destination on the island. Traveling by ferry is definitely slower but more scenic than flying, as you can enjoy the beauty of the Greek islands during the journey.

Detailed Comparison of Routes

It becomes evident that, when traveling from Athens to Santorini, there are two options to consider: by plane or by ferry. Both options have their own advantages and disadvantages, depending on factors such as cost, travel time, comfort, and convenience.

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How To Get from Athens to Santorini: Plane or Ferry?

Taking a flight is the fastest option to reach Santorini from Athens. The flight duration is around 45 minutes and it lands at Santorini International Airport. Keep in mind that you will need to factor in additional time for check-in, security, and transfers to and from the airports.

The plane journey provides a comfortable and convenient mode of travel. However, it does not offer the scenic views provided by the ferry journey. Also, as Santorini airport is usually busy during peak seasons, you might want to book your tickets well in advance.

The ferry ride from Athens to Santorini takes longer than a flight, but it offers a more scenic and immersive experience. There are various options when it comes to ferries, with travel times ranging from 4.5 to 9 hours and prices varying based on the ferry service and class of travel.

The cost of ferry tickets differs depending on the ferry line and class. Here are the estimated price ranges for some popular ferry services:

• Blue Star Ferries: €30 – €120
• Sea Jets: €50 – €110
• Golden Star Ferries: €55 – €80

Most ferries depart from Piraeus port, which is the largest port in Athens. To reach Piraeus from Athens, one can use public transportation such as the Athens metro, bus, or taxi. The Athens metro takes about 55 minutes and can be a cost-effective way of reaching the port.

In summary, traveling from Athens to Santorini can be done by either taking a flight or catching a ferry. The choice ultimately depends on individual preferences and priorities such as costs, travel time and comfort.

Traveling from Athens to Santorini: Practical Tips and Information

Timetables and Schedules

If you are planning a trip from Athens to Santorini, you should definitely find out about the different flight and ferry timetables. Flights between Athens and Santorini are offered several times a day. The same applies to ferry trips. In both cases, you can check the schedules online. Book your tickets well in advance, especially if you want to visit Santorini in high season.

Booking Tips

When booking tickets for the Athens to Santorini journey, consider looking into different platforms and options. It is recommended to book tickets well in advance, particularly during the high season when demand is higher. Websites like Ferryhopper can be helpful in comparing and booking ferry tickets.

Seasonal Considerations

If you are planning a trip to Santorini, you should definitely take into account the seasonal differences. The high season in Greece usually lasts from June to August. During this time, the islands are busier and prices can be higher. Traveling outside the high season can result in cheaper prices and fewer crowds. However, you should bear in mind that flight and ferry times may be less frequent outside the high season.

It’s also worth considering the weather when planning a trip. In the high season, the weather on Santorini is usually warm and sunny, while in the low season in May, September and October, temperatures are still pleasant and the influx of tourists is lower.

In summary, by taking into account timetables, schedules, booking strategies and seasonal considerations, you can make an informed decision on how and when to plan your Greek island adventure.

Conclusion

When planning your trip from Athens to Santorini, it’s essential to consider your budget, preferences, and accessibility requirements. There are two primary modes of transportation available: by air or by sea. Each option has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, so it’s vital to make an informed decision based on your specific needs and desires.

Flying from Athens to Santorini is the fastest and most convenient option, taking approximately 45 minutes. This option is ideal for those who are short on time or prioritize confort. However, it can be more expensive compared to taking a ferry.

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On the other hand, traveling by ferry from Athens to Santorini offers a more affordable and scenic journey. There are various ferry options, with travel times ranging from 4.5 hours to 9 hours. The cost of the ferry ticket ranges from €30 – €120, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious travelers. Nevertheless, the longer travel time may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with limited time or accessibility needs.

In conclusion, choosing how to travel from Athens to Santorini ultimately depends on your individual priorities and circumstances. Be sure to investigate all the available options and factor in accessibility, time constraints, and budget before making a final decision. 

FAQs

What are the different modes of transportation from Athens to Santorini?

There are two main modes of transportation to get from Athens to Santorini: by air and by sea. Travelers can choose between taking a flight or a ferry to reach the island. Flights depart from Athens International Airport (ATH), while ferries leave from Piraeus port.

How long does it take to fly from Athens to Santorini?

A direct flight from Athens to Santorini takes approximately 45 minutes. This is the fastest way to travel between the two destinations.

What ferry options are available to travel from Athens to Santorini?

Various ferry companies operate services between Athens and Santorini, offering different types of vessels and speeds. The trip can take 4.5 to 9 hours depending on the ferry type. 

Is it possible to reach Santorini by car from Athens?

No, it is not possible to reach Santorini by car from Athens directly, as Santorini is an island without a mainland connection. However, travelers can drive to Piraeus port in Athens and transport their cars to Santorini via ferry services that allow vehicle transportation.

Which is the most economical way to travel from Athens to Santorini?

The most economical way to travel from Athens to Santorini varies depending on available deals. A flight is faster, while a ferry trip is usually more affordable.