So, you’ve landed in Athens and are soaking up the history, culture, and that iconic Greek vibe. But now it’s time for the next chapter of your adventure: heading to Santorini. This famous island, with its whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and breathtaking sunsets, is calling your name. But how do you get there? The good news is, there are several ways to travel from Athens to Santorini, each with its own perks. Let’s break down your options so you can choose the best route for your journey.
1. Taking the Ferry: The Classic Island-Hopping Experience
Why Take the Ferry?
Taking a ferry from Athens to Santorini is like stepping into a Greek postcard. This option is perfect if you want to experience the beauty of the Aegean Sea up close. You’ll glide across the deep blue waters, passing by other islands along the way, and feeling the sea breeze on your face. Plus, it’s a more environmentally friendly option than flying, and it gives you a true sense of what Greek island life is all about.
Ferry Options: High-Speed vs. Conventional
When it comes to ferry travel, you’ve got two main options: high-speed ferries and conventional ferries.
- High-Speed Ferries: These ferries are faster, typically taking around 4.5 to 5.5 hours to reach Santorini from Athens. Companies like SeaJets and Golden Star Ferries offer these services. High-speed ferries are more modern, with comfortable seats and often air conditioning. However, they’re also more expensive than the conventional ferries, and the ride can be a bit bumpier if the seas are rough.
- Conventional Ferries: If you’re not in a rush and want to save some money, conventional ferries are a great choice. These ferries take around 7 to 8 hours to reach Santorini, so you’ll have plenty of time to relax, enjoy the views, and maybe even take a nap. Companies like Blue Star Ferries are well-known for their reliable service. Conventional ferries are also more spacious, with outdoor decks where you can enjoy the sun and sea breeze.
Booking Your Ferry Tickets
You can book your ferry tickets online in advance through websites like FerryHopper or directly from the ferry company’s website. During peak season (June to September), it’s wise to book ahead, especially if you’re traveling on a specific date. Tickets can sell out fast, particularly for the high-speed ferries.
When booking, you’ll have the option to choose between different classes of seating. Economy class is the most budget-friendly, while business class offers more comfortable seating and sometimes access to quieter lounges.
Tips for Ferry Travel
- Arrive Early: Ferry ports can be hectic, especially in Athens (Piraeus Port). Arrive at least an hour before departure to find your gate and get settled.
- Bring Snacks: While there are usually cafes on board, the options can be pricey and limited. Bringing your own snacks and water can save you some money.
- Dress in Layers: The temperature on the ferry can fluctuate, especially if you’re sitting outside. It’s a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater.
2. Flying: The Fast and Convenient Option
Why Fly?
If you’re short on time and want to get to Santorini as quickly as possible, flying is your best bet. The flight from Athens to Santorini takes only about 45 minutes, making it by far the fastest way to reach the island. Plus, flying means you’ll have more time to explore Santorini once you arrive.
Airlines and Booking
Several airlines operate daily flights between Athens and Santorini, including Aegean Airlines, Olympic Air, Ryanair, and Sky Express. The number of flights increases during the high season, with more options for different times of the day.
It’s a good idea to book your flight as early as possible to secure the best price. Keep in mind that budget airlines like Ryanair often charge extra for things like checked baggage and seat selection, so be sure to factor those costs into your budget.
Getting to Athens Airport
Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) is about 30 km (18 miles) from the city center. You can get there by taxi, which takes about 30-40 minutes depending on traffic, or by the metro (Line 3) which takes around 40 minutes. There are also regular buses (X95) that run from Syntagma Square to the airport.
What to Expect at Santorini Airport
Santorini’s airport is small and can get crowded, especially during peak season. When you arrive, you’ll likely need to take a taxi or arrange for a transfer to your accommodation. There are buses available, but they don’t run as frequently as in Athens, so if you’re in a hurry, a taxi might be your best option.
3. Combining Ferry and Flight: The Best of Both Worlds
Why Combine?
If you can’t decide between flying and taking the ferry, why not do both? Some travelers choose to fly to Santorini and take the ferry back to Athens (or vice versa) to experience the best of both worlds. This option allows you to save time on one leg of the journey and enjoy the scenic ferry ride on the other.
How to Plan This Route
If you choose to combine both modes of transport, you’ll need to plan your itinerary carefully. For example, you could fly to Santorini at the start of your trip to maximize your time on the island. Then, after a few days of exploring, take a leisurely ferry ride back to Athens, giving you a chance to unwind and reflect on your trip.
Alternatively, you could start with the ferry ride to Santorini, which gives you a gradual transition from the bustling city life of Athens to the laid-back island vibe of Santorini. Then, after soaking in the beauty of Santorini, fly back to Athens for a quick and easy return.
4. Island Hopping: The Scenic Route
Why Island Hop?
If you have some extra time and want to explore more of the Greek islands, consider taking the scenic route from Athens to Santorini with some island hopping along the way. This is a fantastic option for travelers who want to experience the diversity of the Cyclades islands, each with its own unique charm.
Suggested Island Hopping Itineraries
- Athens to Paros/Naxos to Santorini: Paros and Naxos are two of the largest islands in the Cyclades and make great stops on your way to Santorini. From Athens, you can take a ferry to Paros (about 4 hours on a conventional ferry or 3 hours on a high-speed ferry). Spend a couple of days exploring Paros’ beautiful beaches and charming villages, then take a short ferry ride to Naxos. Naxos is known for its stunning landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant food scene. Finally, hop on another ferry to Santorini (about 2 hours).
- Athens to Mykonos to Santorini: Mykonos is famous for its nightlife, beaches, and cosmopolitan vibe. From Athens, you can catch a ferry to Mykonos (about 5 hours on a conventional ferry or 2.5 hours on a high-speed ferry). Spend a day or two enjoying the island’s glamorous atmosphere, then take a ferry to Santorini (about 2-3 hours).
Booking Island Hopping Ferries
When planning an island-hopping adventure, it’s important to check ferry schedules in advance, as routes between islands can vary depending on the season. Websites like FerryHopper allow you to book multiple legs of your journey in one go, making it easy to plan your itinerary.
Accommodation Tips for Island Hopping
If you’re island hopping, it’s a good idea to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the high season. Look for hotels or guesthouses near the port for easy access to your ferry. Alternatively, if you want to explore more of the island, consider renting a scooter or a car to get around.
5. Private Yacht or Sailing Charter: The Luxury Route
Why Charter a Yacht?
For those looking for a more luxurious and personalized experience, chartering a private yacht or sailing boat from Athens to Santorini is an unforgettable way to travel. This option is perfect for small groups, honeymooners, or anyone looking to explore the Aegean Sea in style.
What to Expect
Chartering a yacht or sailing boat allows you to set your own pace and itinerary. You can stop at secluded beaches, explore lesser-known islands, and enjoy the privacy and comfort of your own boat. Most charters come with a skipper who knows the best spots to visit, and some even offer a full crew to take care of everything from cooking to navigating.
This option can be pricey, but if you’re traveling with a group and splitting the cost, it can be more affordable than you might think. Plus, the experience of sailing through the Greek islands is truly priceless.
How to Book
There are many companies that offer yacht and sailing charters in Greece, including Sailo, Zizoo, and Dream Yacht Charter. It’s a good idea to book well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season. When booking, make sure to clarify what’s included in the price (e.g., fuel, food, skipper fees) to avoid any surprises.
6. Traveling by Bus and Ferry: The Budget Route
Why Choose This Option?
If you’re traveling on a budget and don’t mind a bit of a longer journey, combining a bus and ferry is a cost-effective way to get from Athens to Santorini. This route involves taking a bus from Athens to a nearby port, such as Rafina or Lavrio, and then catching a ferry to Santorini.
The Route
- Athens to Rafina/Lavrio by Bus: Rafina is about 30 km (19 miles) from Athens, while Lavrio is about 60 km (37 miles) away. You can catch a bus from central Athens to either of these ports. The bus ride takes around 1-1.5 hours to Rafina and about 2 hours to Lavrio. Buses run regularly and are quite affordable.
- Ferry from Rafina/Lavrio to Santorini: From Rafina, you can catch a ferry to Santorini, with a journey time of around 6-8 hours depending on the type of ferry. Lavrio also offers ferry connections to Santorini, though the schedule might be less frequent than from Rafina or Piraeus.
Booking and Tips
This route requires a bit more planning and coordination, as you’ll need to align your bus and ferry schedules. Websites like KTEL (for buses) and FerryHopper (for ferries) are useful for checking timetables and booking tickets.
While this option is budget-friendly, it can be more time-consuming. However, if you’re not in a rush and want to save some money, it’s a good alternative to the more direct routes.
7. Exploring Alternative Routes: The Road Less Traveled
Why Consider an Alternative Route?
For the adventurous traveler who wants to explore Greece beyond the typical tourist trail, there are alternative routes to Santorini that offer unique experiences. These routes involve combining different modes of transport and stopping at less-visited destinations along the way.
Suggested Alternative Route: Athens to Crete to Santorini
- Athens to Crete by Ferry: Crete, Greece’s largest island, is a fantastic destination in its own right. From Athens, you can take an overnight ferry to Crete (Heraklion or Chania). The ferry ride takes around 8-9 hours, and you’ll arrive in Crete early in the morning, ready to explore.
- Explore Crete: Spend a few days in Crete, visiting its famous sites like the Palace of Knossos, the beautiful beaches of Elafonissi and Balos, and the charming towns of Chania and Rethymno. Crete offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty that’s well worth exploring.
- Crete to Santorini by Ferry: From Heraklion in Crete, you can catch a ferry to Santorini, which takes about 2 hours on a high-speed ferry. This route gives you a taste of two of Greece’s most popular islands, with plenty of time to soak in the local culture.
Wrapping It All Up
There’s no shortage of ways to travel from Athens to Santorini, whether you’re looking for speed, scenic views, or a bit of both. Whether you choose to fly, take the ferry, island hop, or even charter a yacht, each route offers its own unique experiences.
Remember to consider your travel style, budget, and how much time you have when choosing your route. No matter how you get there, the journey from Athens to Santorini is sure to be a memorable part of your Greek adventure. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Safe travels!