Planning a visit to Greece’s iconic island? The Port of Santorini, located near the village of Athinios, is your entry point to the island’s breathtaking landscapes, world-famous sunsets, and traditional Cycladic charm. With regular ferry connections to nearby islands and mainland Greece, Santorini is a must-visit destination and a vital transit hub for travelers.
Welcome to the Port of Santorini – The Caldera’s Gateway
The Port of Santorini, often referred to as Athinios Port, is the main hub for ferries traveling to and from the island. Nestled against dramatic cliffs, the port offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea and provides travelers with easy access to the island’s highlights.
Port Facilities and Services
The Port of Santorini offers essential facilities to ensure a seamless experience for ferry passengers:
Passenger Terminal: Basic ticketing services, waiting areas, and travel information are available at the terminal.
Shops and Cafes: A selection of cafes, restaurants, and shops around the port provide refreshments, snacks, and travel essentials.
Transportation Links: Taxis, buses, and car rental services are easily accessible near the port.
Parking at Santorini Port
Parking near Athinios Port is limited and can be challenging during the busy summer season. Travelers are encouraged to arrive early or arrange transportation to avoid delays. Additional parking options are available further up the road, with shuttle services transporting passengers to the port.
Santorini Port’s Ferry Routes and Operators
The Port of Santorini serves as a major hub for ferry routes to nearby islands and the mainland:
Santorini to Ios: A short ferry ride to Ios, known for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches, taking approximately 1 hour.
Santorini to Mykonos: Frequent ferries connect Santorini to Mykonos, with a journey time of 2-3 hours.
Santorini to Paros: A scenic route linking Santorini to Paros, taking about 3-4 hours depending on the ferry type.
Santorini to Crete: Ferries to Heraklion in Crete provide a direct connection to this historic island in 1.5-2.5 hours.
Santorini to Athens (Piraeus or Rafina): Ferries to the mainland take 5-8 hours, with high-speed options reducing travel time.
Santorini to Naxos: Regular ferries connect Santorini to Naxos in approximately 2 hours.
Getting to the Port of Santorini
Taxi and Local Buses
Taxis and local buses connect the port to Fira and other major villages on the island. Bus schedules are aligned with ferry arrivals and departures.
Car
The port is accessible by car via winding roads with breathtaking views. Rental cars are widely available on the island, and parking options are available near the port.
Getting Around Santorini and Nearby Attractions
Athinios Port is well-connected to Santorini’s top attractions, making it easy for travelers to explore the island:
Fira (Thira)
The island’s capital is a short drive from the port, offering a mix of traditional Cycladic architecture, vibrant shops, and incredible views of the caldera.
Oia
Known for its iconic sunsets, whitewashed houses, and blue-domed churches, Oia is a must-visit village located on the northern tip of the island.
Red Beach
A unique beach with dramatic red cliffs and clear waters, located near the archaeological site of Akrotiri.
Pyrgos Village
A charming village with narrow streets, historic churches, and panoramic views of the island.
Safety and Security
The Port of Santorini follows strict safety protocols to ensure a secure environment for all passengers. Security checks are conducted for ferry departures, particularly during peak travel periods.
Port Operating Hours and Contact Information
The Port of Santorini operates daily in alignment with ferry schedules. Administrative offices are open Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm EET.
| Opening Hours: | Open Daily (Seasonal Timings May Apply) |
| Recommended Arrival Times: | 1-2 Hours Before Scheduled Boarding Time |
| Contact Information: | Phone: +30 2286 025 819 Email: [email protected] |
FAQs
Which ferry routes are available from Santorini?
Routes include Santorini to Ios, Mykonos, Paros, Crete, Athens, and Naxos.