The Busy Port of Santorini
Location
- Located on the south coast of Santorini Island in the Aegean Sea
- Situated approximately 8 km/5 miles from Fira, the island’s capital
- Serves as the primary point for ferry and cruise connections between Santorini, the Greek mainland, and neighboring islands in the Cyclades
Significance
- One of the most popular and busiest ports in the Cyclades, connecting Santorini with major ports in Greece such as Piraeus and other islands like Mykonos, Naxos, and Paros
- A key transportation hub for both passenger and freight services, supporting Santorini’s tourism industry
- Santorini is a world-renowned tourist destination, famous for its stunning views, volcanic landscape, and charming towns, and the port plays an essential role in accommodating the high volume of visitors arriving by ferry and cruise ships
Practical Info
- Open around the clock (24/7)
- It is recommended to arrive at least 1 hour before your ferry departure
- Contact Number: +30 2286 022215
Santorini Ferry and Cruise Terminals
The Port of Santorini is primarily located at Athinios Port, situated on the west coast of the island. The port is relatively small but well-equipped to handle both ferry and cruise traffic. The Main Ferry Terminal serves ferries traveling to and from the Greek mainland (Piraeus), as well as other Cycladic islands. The terminal offers services such as ticketing counters, waiting areas, restrooms, and cafes. The port is located near the base of the caldera, with a steep climb up to the island’s towns. There is no direct access to the towns from the port, but buses and taxis are available to transport passengers to popular destinations like Fira and Oia. The Cruise Terminal at Santorini is located near the ferry terminal and serves cruise ships arriving on the island. Larger cruise ships typically dock offshore, with passengers transferred to the port by tender boats.
Santorini Port Parking Options
Parking at the Port of Santorini is available, but it can be quite limited, especially during the busy summer months. The Main Parking Lot is located near the ferry terminal and offers both short- and long-term parking options. However, parking spaces are often filled quickly due to the high volume of visitors during the tourist season. There are also Private Parking lots near the port, offering additional parking spaces, though they are a bit farther from the terminal. These private lots provide competitive rates and often have shuttle services that transport passengers to the ferry gates. Long-Term Parking is available as well, but spaces can fill up fast during peak travel times.
Things to Do Near Kefalonia Port
If you have some time to spare before your ferry or cruise departs, Santorini offers a range of attractions that are easily accessible from the port. Fira, the capital of the island, is about 8 km/5 miles from the port and offers a variety of shops, cafes, restaurants, and stunning views of the caldera. The town is known for its whitewashed buildings, narrow streets, and lively atmosphere. Oia, a picturesque village known for its stunning sunsets and dramatic views, is located on the northern tip of the island and can be reached by bus or taxi from the port. Akrotiri Archaeological Site, one of the most important ancient sites in Greece, is a short drive from the port and offers insight into the Minoan civilization that thrived on the island before the volcanic eruption. For a more relaxing experience, Perissa Beach and Kamari Beach offer black sand and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.