Athens to Santorini: Ferries, Flights, and Tips
Discover the best ways of traveling from Athens to Santorini. Learn the pros and cons of ferries vs flights, get insider tips, and plan your perfect island escape.
The journey from Athens to Santorini is more than just a connection between mainland and island—it’s the first chapter of your Cycladic adventure. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a longer summer escape, understanding your travel options can make all the difference. Here’s how to get from Athens to Santorini, including what to expect from ferries and flights, plus a few practical tips to help you travel like a pro.
The Ferry Experience: Scenic and Iconic
Ferries are a classic way to reach Santorini and offer a laid-back, scenic route through the Aegean. Departing from the Port of Piraeus, they run year-round, but summer brings the most daily options. You’ll typically find two types:
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High-speed ferries (by operators like Seajets): These take around 4.5 to 5 hours. They’re quicker but come with smaller outdoor decks and higher fares.
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Conventional ferries (like Blue Star Ferries): Slower—roughly 8 hours—but more spacious and stable, ideal if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a more leisurely pace.
Pro Tip: Book tickets early during high season. Reserve a numbered seat, especially for high-speed vessels, and arrive at the port at least 1 hour before departure.
Flying to Santorini: Fast and Convenient
If time is your priority, flying is the fastest way to reach the island. Multiple daily flights connect Athens International Airport (ATH) to Santorini National Airport (JTR), especially during summer.
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Flight time: Approximately 45 minutes
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Carriers: Aegean Airlines, Sky Express, Ryanair, and Volotea frequently operate this route.
Prices can be surprisingly competitive—especially if you book in advance—and flying saves you hours compared to even the fastest ferry.
Pro Tip: If you’re arriving in Athens from abroad and want to skip the city, book a flight that connects directly through to Santorini with minimal layover time.
Which Option Is Best?
| Criteria | Ferry | Flight |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Time | 4.5–8 hours | 45 minutes |
| Scenic Views | Stunning Aegean views from deck | Aerial views (brief) |
| Flexibility | More baggage room, outdoor space | Faster but stricter baggage rules |
| Cost | €30–€80 (depending on type) | €40–€150 (based on demand) |
| Experience | Relaxing, iconic Greek travel style | Efficient and practical |
Verdict: If time is tight, go for the flight. But if you want the full island-hopping experience with endless sea views, ferries are unbeatable.
Final Travel Tips
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Book ahead: Summer is peak season. Ferries and flights fill up quickly.
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Travel light: Especially if flying with budget carriers.
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Mind the weather: Ferries may be delayed or canceled in high winds. Flights are usually more reliable.
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Stay flexible: Have a backup plan if you’re traveling in July or August, when ports and airports can be overwhelmed.
The journey from Athens to Santorini sets the tone for your island adventure. Whether you soar above the Aegean or glide across it, the beauty of Santorini awaits on the other side.