The Port of Santorini is one of the busiest Greek ports, especially during the summer when it handles a significant number of passengers daily. While it is small, it features several services and amenities for its size. Check our detailed guide and learn everything there is to know about the bustling ferry port in Santorini.
Port of Santorini: The Main Gateway to the Majestic Island
Santorini has two ports. The main commercial and passenger port, Athinios Port or New Port as it is also called, is located on the southwest side of the island, 10km/6.2 miles from Santorini Airport and about 8km/5 miles from Fira, the island’s capital. The Port overlooks the Palea and Nea Kameni islets. Locals also call it “Thira Port”. On the other hand, Santorini Cruise Port lies close to Fira, linked to the capital via a cable car, donkey rides, or a 587-step stairway. Santorini is the most popular cruise destination in Greece. Thus, Santorini Cruise Port, known as Skala Port, Fira Port, or Old Port, welcomes several cruise ships daily during the summer months while reduced traffic continues throughout the rest of the year. Moreover, numerous boat trips depart from that area heading to the Volcano, Caldera, and other nearby destinations.
Athinios Port is the main ferry port of Santorini, handling all ferry routes to and from the island, as well as commercial traffic. It was built between 2006 and 2008 in an effort to optimize the sea connections of the island. It has undergone many reconstructions to meet the ever-increasing demands. Despite these efforts, it remains a small port. As a result, it gets really crowded during the peak tourist season, leading to lengthy embarkation and disembarkation procedures.
Both ports -Santorini Ferry Port and Santorini Cruise Port- along with 10 other zones in Santorini and Thirasia, are managed by the Municipal Port Fund of Thira. The organization is committed to providing top-quality services and a comprehensive and satisfying travel experience. Additionally, it is also dedicated to reducing the port’s environmental impact. To that purpose, it adopts eco-friendly policies and complies with all the relevant laws and regulations.
Santorini Port Terminals
Despite its small size, Santorini Athinios Port offers passengers some services and amenities. Hence, it features a terminal building. It is actually a passenger waiting area equipped with basic amenities, such as ATMs and restrooms. Apart from the terminal building, Santorini Ferry Port also houses an outdoor sheltered zone where passengers can also wait for their upcoming ferry route.
Parking at Athinios Port
Santorini Ferry Port has parking facilities catering to its passengers’ needs. Thus, an outdoor parking lot can be found within its premises, offering parking spaces for free. Whether for long stays or short-term parking, the Santorini port parking lot provides convenient options for all passengers. That being said, that car park has a limited size. Therefore, during the high tourist season, finding a parking spot may be challenging.
Santorini Port’s Ferry Companies and Routes
Santorini Port is efficiently connected to the mainland and other Greek islands. Thus, ferry routes from Santorini to Athens (Piraeus Port) depart on a daily basis, especially during the summer, while ferries from Santorini to Mykonos, Milos, and other Cycladic islands are also available. Moreover, Santorini, the island belonging to the Cyclades island group, is also linked to the Dodecanese islands and Crete. Various ferry companies are present at Santorini Athinios Port, providing sailings to all these destinations. Consequently, ferry routes are frequent, services are efficient, and prices tend to be competitive.
Transfer Options from Santorini Port
Taxi
Santorini port taxis are a convenient option for the ride from Athinios Port to the passenger’s destination in Santorini. However, they are limited and therefore hard to find when the port is crowded.
Bus
Bus rides from Athinios Port are the cheapest option. However, they head only to Fira. Thus, a change of lines is required to reach other destinations.
Car Rentals
A Santorini port car rental is an ideal way to explore remote areas, difficult to access via public transportation or taxis. However, it’s important to remember that the road to and from Fira is windy and challenging.
Things to Do in Santorini Port
Drink & Dine
Athinios Port in Santorini features some dining facilities. Hence, you can grab a bite or enjoy a refreshing drink or rejuvenating coffee while waiting for your ferry.
Do Some Shopping
From mini-markets to souvenir shops, Thira Port offers limited shopping options, allowing passengers to purchase last-minute gifts or travel essentials before their crossing.
Visit a Winery
Two wineries are located close to Santorini Athinios Port. Thus, passengers with a layover at Santorini Port can spend their free time enjoying a wine-tasting experience.
Explore Pyrgos Kallistis
Pyrgos Kallistis is a beautiful village, a 12-minute ride from Santorini Ferry Port. It is known for its medieval ambiance, scenic routes, and amazing views of the island.
Useful Info about Santorini Athinios Port
| Opening Hours: | Open 24 Hours a Day |
| Recommended Arrival Times: | 1 Hour Before the Ferry’s Departure |
| Contact Information: | Phone: +30 22860 25015 Email: [email protected] |
FAQs
Are there two ports in Santorini?
Yes, Santorini has two ports. The New Port (Athinios Port) is the main harbor, handling the island’s passenger and commercial traffic. On the other hand, Santorini Cruise Port (Skala Port or Fira Port) is the one where cruise ships arrive.