santorini bus travel

Santorini Public Bus Routes And Schedules For 2024

Santorini Bus Schedule 2024 Survival Guide

This is the complete Santorini Bus routes and schedule for Santorini Local Bus service and connections to all main towns of the island. Routes, times, tickets, buses timetables and all bus stops from Fira, Oia, Kamari, Perissa, Perivolo, Monolithos, Vlychada and all other villages of the island.

Santorini’s local buses are called “KTEL Santorini Buses” and they operate all around the year. 23 public buses operate on the island on many bus routes during the summer time but only a few are around during the winter time. Therefor commuting with a santorini public bus can be a bit daunting to the travellers.

During the low season taking the Santorini public bus is a very pleasant experience as the buses are rarely full so you can ride comfortably. Using the Santorini public buses is the cheapest way to get around the island ,so i have put together this guide to help you.

Guide: How to get from Kamari to Fira and Oia

Guide: How to get to from Perissa to Fira and Oia

Use the promo code “ buspromo ” at the ticket desk to get 10% discount on adult tickets . EnjoySantorini ™

Table of Contents

The six basic things you should know using Ktel Santorini buses

• The central station for all Santorini Local Buses is in Fira.
• You can get from any part to any other part of the island using the Santorini local buses but most of the time you have to go through fira and change line there.
• All the buses depart and finish their routes there.
• The buses schedule is different in the weekends of the winter season.
• More bus routes are added during the summer peak season, from June to the end of September .
• Tickets are purchased on the bus in exchange for cash only.

TIMETABLES AND BUS ROUTES FOR 2024

Fira to port (bus schedule).

Monday – Sunday   : 11:30, 12.00, 14.30

• The route from Fira to the Port is a 25 minutes drive
• The ticket from Fira to the Port costs 2.30 euros

PORT TO FIRA (BUS SCHEDULE)

Monday – Sunday   : 12.00, 12.30, 15.15

• The route from the Port to Fira is a 25 minutes drive
• The ticket from the Port to Fira costs 2.30 euros

AIRPORT TO FIRA (BUS SCHEDULE)

Monday – Sunday   : 7:25, 9:10, 10:10, 11:10, 12:10, 13:10, 14:10, 15:10, 16:10, 17:10, 18:10, 19:10, 20:10, 21:10

• The route from the Airport to Fira is a 10 mins drive
• The ticket from the Airport to Fira costs 1.60 euros

FIRA TO AIRPORT (BUS SCHEDULE)

Monday – Sunday   :   6:30, 7:15, 9:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00, 18:00, 19:00, 20:00, 21:00, 22:00

• The route from Fira to the Airport is a 10 mins drive
• The ticket from Fira to the Airport costs 1.60 euros

FIRA TO OIA (BUS SCHEDULE):

Monday – Sunday   :   6:50, 8:15, 9:15, 10:00, 10:30, 11:00, 11:30, 12:00, 12:30, 13:00, 13:30, 14:20 , 15:00, 15:30, 16:00, 16:30, 17:00, 17:30, 18:00, 18:30, 19:00, 19:30, 20:00, 21:20 .

• This is the same bus that also goes from Fira to Imerovigli ( Imerovigli is just a stop between Fira and Oia, closer to Fira)
• The route from Fira to Oia is a 25 minutes drive
• The ticket from Fira to Oia costs 1.80 euros

OIA TO FIRA (BUS SCHEDULE)

Monday – Sunday  :  7:30, 8:35, 9:35, 10:20, 10:50, 11:20, 11:50, 12:20, 12:50, 13:20, 13:50, 14:20, 15:20, 15:50, 16:20, 16:50, 17:20, 17:50, 18:20, 18:50, 19:20, 19:50, 20:20, 21:40.

• This is the same bus that also goes from Oia to Imerovigli (imerovigli is just a stop between Oia and Fira ; closer to Fira)
• The route from Oia to Fira is a 25 minutes drive
• The ticket from Oia to Fira costs 1.80 euros

FIRA TO PERISSA (BUS SCHEDULE)

Monday – Sunday : 7:00, 8:30, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00, 18:00, 19:00, 20:00, 21:00, 22:00 .

• The route from Fira to Perissa is a 25 minutes drive
• This bus stops at Santo-wines winery that offers great views and wine tasting and the LOST ATLANTIS EXPERIENCE MUSEUM a 9D immersive experience of Santorini ( Highly recommended )
• Perissa is the famous Black Beach
• The ticket from Fira to Perissa costs 2.20 euros

PERISSA TO FIRA (BUS SCHEDULE)

Monday – Sunday  :  7:30, 9:10, 10:40, 11:40, 12:40, 13:40, 14:40, 15:40, 16:40, 17:40, 18:40, 19:40, 20:40, 21:20, 22:20.

• The route from Perissa to Fira is a 25 minutes drive
• The ticket from Perissa to Fira costs 2.20 euros
• Read the full guide on  how to get to from Perissa to Fira  including all the bus stops.
• This bus stops at Santo-wines winery that offers great views and wine tasting and the LOST ATLANTIS EXPERIENCE MUSEUM a 9D immersive experience of Santorini (Highly recommended)

FIRA TO KAMARI (BUS SCHEDULE)

Monday – Sunday  :  7:15, 8:30, 7:15, 10:00, 10:30, 11:00, 11:30, 12:00, 12:30, 13:00, 13:30, 14:00, 14:30, 14:30, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00, 16:30, 17:00, 17:30, 18:00, 18:30, 19:00, 19:30, 20:00, 20:30, 21:00, 21:30, 22:00 .

The route from Fira to Kamari is a 20 minutes drive

The bus from Kamari to Fira also stops at  Kamari Open Air Cinema , Estate Argyros Santorini Winery (Highly Recommended!), at  the Donkey Local Brewery  and at  Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum

The ticket from Fira to Kamari costs 1.80 euros Read the full guide on  how to get from Kamari to Fira

KAMARI TO FIRA (BUS SCHEDULE)

Monday – Sunday  :  7:30, 8:45, 9:30, 10:20, 10:45, 11:15, 11:45, 12:20, 12:45, 13:15, 13:45, 14:20, 14:45, 14:50, 15:15, 15:45, 16:20, 16:45, 17:15, 17:45, 18:20, 18:45, 19:20, 19:45, 20:15, 20:45, 21:20, 21:45, 22:20.

The route from Kamari to Fira is a 20 minutes drive

The ticket from Kamari to Fira costs 1.80 euros

FIRA TO AKROTIRI (BUS SCHEDULE)

Monday – Sunday  :  9:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:30, 19:00, 20:00.

• The route from Fira to Akrotiri is a 25 minutes drive
• This bus stops at Santo-wines winery that offers great views and wine tasting and the LOST ATLANTIS EXPERIENCE MUSEUM a 9D immersive experience of Santorini (Highly recommended). The bus to  Akrotiri (prehistoric city) also goes to the Red Beach
• The ticket from Fira to Akrotiri costs 2.00 euros

AKROTIRI TO FIRA (BUS SCHEDULE)

Monday – Friday  :  9:20, 10:20, 11:20, 12:20, 13:20, 14:20, 15:20, 16:20, 17:50, 19:20, 20:20.

• The route from Akrotiri to Fira is a 25 minutes drive
• The ticket from Akrotiri to Fira costs 2.00 euros

FIRA TO MONOLITHOS (BUS SCHEDULE)

Monday – Sunday  :  7:15, 10:00, 14:00.

• The root from Fira to Monolithos beach is a 20 minutes drive
• The ticket from Fira to Monolithos costs 1.60 euros

MONOLITHOS TO FIRA (BUS SCHEDULE)

Monday – Sunday  :  7:30, 10:15, 14:15.

• The route from Monolithos beach to Fira is a 20 minutes drive
• The ticket from Monolithos to Fira costs 1.60 euros

FIRA TO VLYCHADA (BUS SCHEDULE)

Monday – Sunday  :  7:00, 11:00, 14:00.

• The route from Fira to Vlychada beach is a 20 minutes drive
• The ticket from Fira to Vlychada costs 2.30 euros

VLYCHADA TO FIRA (BUS SCHEDULE)

Monday – Sunday  :  7:30, 11:30, 14:30.

• The route from Vlychada beach to Fira is a 20 minutes drive
• The ticket from Vlychada to Fira costs 2.30 euros

FIRA TO VOURVOULOS (BUS SCHEDULE)

Monday – Sunday   : 11:00, 14.00, 17.00

• The route from Fira to Vourvoulos is a 15 minutes drive
• The ticket from Fira to Vourvoulos costs 1.30 euros

VOURVOULOS TO FIRA (BUS SCHEDULE)

Monday – Sunday   : 07:30, 11:10, 14.15, 17.10

• The route from Vourvoulos to Fira is a 15 minutes drive
• The ticket from Vourvoulos to Fira costs 1.60 euros

The Santorini Bus schedule can be changed without notice.

You can verify the times schedule by calling +30 2286025404. If you see an error in our page please contact us so we can fix it so that we provide the travellers with the most accurate information.Thank you and Godspeed!

If you dont want to wait for the bus try these services.

Https://santorinitaxi.eu is a private taxi service in Santorini. Santorini Airport shuttle offers Shared and Private transfers from Santorini Airport and Port.

Privacy Overview

Https://www.santorini-museums.com New info-project about museums and art galleries in Santorini. If you found this website useful, please just give me one minute of your time. Still in Beta but please check it out !

SantoriniDave.com

Santorini buses.

Greece › Santorini › Bus Routes, Schedules, Tickets Updated: June 7, 2024 By Santorini Dave

• Santorini hotels • Santorini towns • Santorini beaches • Santorini restaurants • Santorini things to do • Santorini maps • Santorini boat tours • Santorini wineries • Santorini ferry port • Santorini airport

A Santorini bus stop near a vineyard in the village of Pyrgos.

Santorini Buses – The Basics Buses are my preferred way of getting around Santorini. They are the cheapest mode of transportation. Standard adult tickets cost between €2.00 and €2.50, depending on the destination. I find Santorini buses clean and easy to use. They are air-conditioned, safe, and reliable – but they can be packed on main routes. Bus tickets are purchased when boarding by cash only . There are no advanced sales of bus tickets. All tickets are one-way with no transfers. Bus tickets are sold individually; there are no daily or weekly bus passes. Fira is the main bus hub. All bus routes begin and end in Fira. The Fira bus station is where to find the most current bus timetables. The timetables for all routes change seasonally. The Fira-Athinios (Ferry Port) route changes every day according to the ferry schedule. Transportation strikes occur on various dates throughout the year in Greece. These strikes affect all forms of transit. During strikes, no buses, no ferries, and only a few trains and flights will depart on time (or at all). Taxis tend to be the least affected mode of transport. Though strikes can occur at any time, there is always a huge strike on May 1. Avoid booking any ferries, flights, or trains for that day.

Getting Around Santorini by Bus

The bus stop at Perivolos Beach.

KTEL is the company that runs the public buses in Santorini. The site is updated irregularly and doesn’t always have the most recent timetables posted. But the site offers useful information such as pricing for night buses, information on discounted rates, and a list of all routes available. Adult tickets cost between €2.00 and €2.50, depending on the destination. Night buses (from 12:30 a.m. to 5:00 a.m.) run less frequently and cost a little more, from €2.50 to €3.10. Persons with disabilities or multiple children receive a 50% discount. Though buses offer a discount for riders with mobility impairments, Santorini buses are not wheelchair accessible.

Fira is the main bus hub in Santorini. All bus routes begin and end in Fira . Travelers staying in Fira can get anywhere on the island using just one bus. Travelers staying in any other village will need to take 2 buses to get anywhere other than Fira. For example, to get from Oia to Akrotiri, take the Oia to Fira bus. Get out at the Fira bus station, then take the Fira to Akrotiri bus. Both of these buses require separate tickets. A round trip from Oia to Akrotiri and back to Oia takes four bus rides and four tickets. The same applies for traveling from Oia to Kamari or Perissa and back. If time is limited, a taxi or car rental is a better option. Santorini bus schedules change seasonally. Buses run year-round with greater frequency and more routes during the summer season, especially from late June through early September. For the main caldera villages ( Fira , Firostefani , Imerovigli , and Oia ) buses run about every 20 to 30 minutes during the summer. For other villages and beaches, buses run about every 30 minutes to 1 hour during high season. Throughout the year, the timetable of the Fira to Athinios Ferry Port route is determined by the ferry schedule, with more frequent service in the busy summer months. Spring and fall seasons also have fairly frequent bus service. From late November through February, bus service is extremely limited. The main caldera villages are served with less than half the frequency as during high season, while some minor routes run only twice a day or not at all. How to Ride the Bus in Santorini

Arrive at the bus station early to find your bus. Look for the yellow sign in the lower-left of the bus window to see the destination. Some buses (usually Airport or Ferry Port buses) are not labeled. Ask the bus driver for the destination. If you are in Fira, you may ask the attendant at the information kiosk. If catching the bus at a bus station, approach the bus and line up for boarding. If catching the bus from a bus stop on the street, flag down the bus to let the driver know to stop. To flag the bus, raise your arms, wave, and try to make eye contact with the driver. Buses will not stop just anywhere along a route. They will only stop at designated bus stops. If the bus is full, it may not stop. Pay the driver or ticket-taker after boarding from a street-side bus stop. For buses from the ferry port, airport, or Fira and Oia bus stations, sometimes you’ll pay the ticket-taker outside the bus before boarding; other times you’ll sit first, then pay the ticket-taker when they approach you. Buses accept cash only. Exact fare is not necessary, but paying in smaller bills makes the process faster and easier. Stow any luggage before taking your seat. Large pieces of luggage are stored under the bus. Hold small bags and backpacks in your lap or tucked at your feet. Use the overhead shelves inside the bus at your own risk; they do not close or even just angle up, so items are prone to falling out when the bus turns or takes a hill. Board and try to grab a seat. Popular routes during high season are often standing-room-only. If the first bus is over-full, you may have to wait for a second bus. Hold on tight during the ride. Roads in Santorini are winding and hilly. There are no seatbelts on the buses. There are handles overhead and on the seatbacks for riders who are standing. Buses will always stop at the final destination listed on the front of the bus, but they don’t always stop at every designated stop along the way. To get off at a lesser-used bus stop (for example Finikia or Exo Gonia), let the driver know when you board. You can also ring the buzzer (if your bus has one) to request a stop, but this requires that you recognize where your stop is. If you won’t be able to recognize your stop, it’s best to sit or stand near the bus driver. If you have mobile data enabled on your phone, open your preferred maps app to follow along in real time and see when you are near your stop. Fira Bus Station

The Fira bus station is the hub of the Santorini bus system. It usually has 4 to 6 buses waiting to depart to points all around the island. All routes begin and end in Fira.

Fira-Oia Route

The line for buses at the Oia Bus Station. In mid-afternoon and after sunset there can be long lines for Oia to Fira buses. But there are always multiple buses waiting in Oia after the sunset to keep the wait times down.

One of the most popular routes, the Fira-Oia route makes a circle around the northern half of the island. The itineraries to and from Oia are completely different, stopping several times through the caldera villages on the way up, then passing by the north coast beaches before shifting inland on the return. • Fira to Oia: Price: €2.00 – Stops: Fira Bus Station, Firostefani, Imerovigli, North Imerovigli (Taverna Tasos), Cavo Tagoo, San Antonio, Finikia, Finikia second stop (near Mr and Mrs White Santorini), East Oia (near Katikies Kirini), and the Oia Bus Station • Oia to Fira: Price: €2.00 – Stops: Oia Bus Station, Tholos, Baxedes Beach (stops 4 times a day), around Pori Harbor, Fira Bus Station – does not stop in Imerovigli or Firostefani Fira-Imerovigli/Firostefani Route

The sheltered bus stop in Imerovigli village with plenty of bench seating inside.

Another loop route, the bus leaves Fira and heads north to Imerovigli taking the inland route, stopping on request (you have to tell the driver) downhill from Firostefani village, about a 5-minute walk up to the village center. Only on the the way south back to Fira does the bus pass directly through Firostefani. • Fira to Imerovigli: Price: €2.00 – Stops: Fira Bus Station, near Santo Wheels Rentals, Imerovigli • Imerovigli/Firostefani to Fira: Price: €2.00 – Stops: Imerovigli, Firostefani, Kontochori, Fira Bus Station Fira-Perissa/Vlychada Route

The end of the line on the Fira to Perissa route is here, near Corner Food & Drinks right behind the beach.

The Perissa route is the most frequent bus line with tons of stops along the way and a few variations on the route. The standard Fira-Perissa bus heads through several inland and smaller villages before heading down to Perivolos Beach and ending at Perissa Beach. Every few hours there is an extended route, that adds a side trip to Vlychada Beach. The standard Perissa bus and the Perissa/Vlychada route are the only buses that go to Pyrgos . There is also a Perissa Express bus that bypasses all villages north of Megalochori, then turns east to the beaches. • Fira to Perissa Price: €2.50 – Stops: Fira Bus Station, Karterados, Mesaria, Vothonos, Santo Wines, Pyrgos, Megalochori, Emporio, Perivolos Beach, Perissa Beach • Perissa to Fira: Price: €2.50 – Stops: Perissa Beach, Emporio, Megalochori, Pyrgos, Vothonos, Mesaria, Karterados, Fira Bus Station – does not stop at Perivolos Beach • Fira to Perissa Express Price: €2.50 – Stops: Fira, Santo Wines, Megalochori, Emporio, Perivolos Beach, Perissa Beach – Bus marked with an “E” • Perissa to Fira Express Price: €2.50 – Stops: Perissa Beach, Emporio, Megalochori, Santo Wines, Fira – Bus marked with an “E”, does not stop at Perivolos Beach • Fira to Perissa/Vlychada Price: €2.50 – Stops: Fira Bus Station, Karterados, Mesaria, Vothonos, Santo Wines, Pyrgos, Megalochori, Emporio, Perivolos Beach, Vlychada Beach, Perissa Beach – about every 3 hours, the Perissa bus route adds this loop to Vlychada • Vlychada/Perissa to Fira Price: €2.50 – Stops: Vlychada Beach, Perissa Beach, Emporio, Megalochori, Pyrgos, Santo Wines, Vothonos, Mesaria, Karterados, Fira Bus Station – does not stop at Perivolos Beach Fira-Kamari Route

A bus stop near Kamari Beach. This is also where to meet the shuttle to Ancient Thera on the hill seen behind.

The most straightforward bus line in Santorini. The bus follows the exact route to and from Kamari Beach. • Fira to Kamari: Price: €2.00 – Stops: Fira Bus Station, Karterados, Mesaria, Exo Gonia, Episkopi Gonias (at Santorini Brewing Company), Cine Kamari (open-air cinema), Kamari Beach • Kamari to Fira: Price: €2.00 – Stops: Kamari Beach, Cine Kamari (open-air cinema), Episkopi Gonias (at Santorini Brewing Company), Exo Gonia, Mesaria, Karterados, Fira Bus Station Fira-Akrotiri Route

A bus stop in Akrotiri village. Continue on the bus past the village to reach the Archaeological Site of Ancient Akrotiri and Akrotiri Beach.

Another straightforward route that makes almost the same stops in both directions. This is the bus to take to reach the Akrotiri excavations and Akrotiri Beach, from where you can hike to Red Beach or take the little boat that goes to the Red and White Beaches. • Fira to Akrotiri Price: €2.00 – Stops: Fira Bus Station, Karterados, Mesaria, Santo Wines, Megalochori, Grigoris Bakery, Caldera View Resort, Akrotiri Village, Akrotiri Archaeological Site, Akrotiri Beach • Akrotiri to Fira Price: €2.00 – Stops: Akrotiri Beach, Akrotiri Archaeological Site, Akrotiri Village, Calera View Resort, Grigoris Bakery, Megalochori, Santo Wines, Mesaria, Karterados, Fira Bus Station Fira-Airport/Monolithos Route

The airport bus stop is right outside the arrivals door.

The Airport bus route runs between the Airport and Fira; every other bus will make a detour in Monolithos before turning back to Fira. The bus stop at the Santorini airport is immediately outside of the arrivals doors. Airport buses have plenty of space to store luggage, either under the bus or in the overhead shelves inside. The overhead shelves do not close; if you have a laptop or any other breakable item, it’s best to hold it in your lap or at your feet. All Airport buses leaving from the airport go to the Fira Bus Station. To get to the other villages (Firostefani, Imerovigli, Oia, Kamari, Perissa, Perivolos, Akrotiri), get off the bus in Fira, buy another ticket, and board a second bus. There are no night buses (12am to 5am) from the Airport to Fira or from Fira to the Airport. • Fira to Airport: Price: €2.00 – Stops: Fira Bus Station, Karterados, Mesaria, Airport • Airport to Fira: Price: €2.00 – Stops: Airport, Mesaria, Karterados, Fira Bus Station • Fira to Airport/Monolithos: Price: €2.00 – Stops: Fira Bus Station, Karterados, Mesaria, Airport, Monolithos Beach – every other Airport bus adds a loop to Monolithos • Monolithos to Fira: Price: €2.00 – Stops: Monolithos Beach, Mesaria, Karterados, Fira Bus Station – does not stop at the Airport Fira-Athinios Ferry Port Route

Buses at the Santorini ferry port.

The bus connecting Athinios Port (Ferry Port) and Fira costs €2.30 and takes about 20 minutes, much of it spent idling on the steep, zigzagging road running up the side of the caldera. The views from here are incredible. There are always buses waiting at the port to meet arriving ferries, and Athinios Port buses go directly to the Fira bus station. To get to other villages (Firostefani, Imerovigli, Oia, Kamari, Perissa, Perivolos, Akrotiri), change buses and buy a second ticket in Fira. Sometimes there is a bus connecting the Ferry Port to the Airport, but it is rare and only offered during the peak of the summer. Athinios Port buses offer plenty of storage space for luggage under the bus or on the overhead shelves, but as previously mentioned, do not put anything breakable on the overhead shelves. The Athinios Port bus schedule changes daily depending on the ferry schedules and weather. In bad weather, ferries and buses will be delayed or canceled. The port schedule is handwritten and posted one day in advance only at the Fira bus station. • Fira to Athinios Ferry Port: Price €2.50 – Stops: Fira Bus Station, Karterados (caldera), Santo Wines, Athinios Port • Athinios Ferry Port to Fira: Price €2.50 – Stops: Athenios Port, near Santo Wines, Karterados (village), Fira Bus Station

Overlooking the Athinios Ferry Port in the caldera. The bus stop is circled in green.

Santorini Bus FAQs Where can I buy Santorini bus tickets? Tickets are sold as you board (usually when boarding at Fira Bus Station, Oia Bus Station, or Athinios Port) or after you have taken your seat (when boarding from a smaller village bus stop). Cash only.

You can buy tickets as you board

…or while the bus is in motion after you’ve taken your seat.

Can I pay for a bus ticket with my credit card? No, all bus ticket sales are in cash only. There are ATMs near the bus stations in Fira and Oia. Can I buy an all-day or multi-day pass for Santorini buses? No, bus tickets are sold individually and are good for a one-way ride to or from Fira. Transfers are not included. Trips requiring two or more buses also require two or more tickets. How much does a bus ticket cost? Bus tickets cost between €2.00 and €2.50, depending on how far the destination is from Fira.

Bus tickets are bought on the bus or just as you board. After you pay, you’ll be given a ticket.

Do buses in Santorini run on Sundays? Yes. Buses in Santorini operate 7 days a week. What are the hours of operation for Santorini buses? In general, the earliest regular bus routes begin at 5:30 a.m., while the latest regular buses run until about 12:30 a.m. There are some night buses running from 12:30 a.m. to 5:30 a.m. that serve the main caldera villages mostly during high season. Night buses operate on an erratic schedule and should not be relied on. Can I take the bus from the Airport or Port directly to Oia? No. All bus routes begin and end in Fira. It will take 2 buses to reach Oia from the airport or port. Take the first bus into Fira, then transfer to a second bus (and buy a second ticket) to Oia. Are Santorini buses wheelchair accessible? No. All buses have a few steps to climb at the entrances and exits. There are no ramps or wheelchair lifts. Once on the bus, the aisle is narrow and there is no space to park a wheelchair.

You’ll need to be able to make it up a couple of steps to board a bus in Santorini.

Which bus goes to Santo Wines? The Perissa, Vlychada, Akrotiri, and Athinios Ferry Port bus routes stop a short walk from Santo Wines . Tell the driver when you board to that you want to stop at Santo Wines, and they will drop you off directly in front of the winery. Other great Santorini wineries are accessible via these same buses by getting off at the Pyrgos, Megalochori, or Exo Gonia stops and walking a short distance.

The bus stop at Santo Wines.

Which bus goes to the beach? Several beaches in Santorini can be reached by bus. The Perissa route goes to Perissa and Perivolos Beaches and sometimes Vlychada Beach. The Kamari bus goes to Kamari Beach. The Airport/Monolithos bus goes to Monolithos Beach. The Akrotiri bus stops at Akrotiri Beach, just a short hike (10 to 15 minutes) to Red Beach. The Oia to Fira bus stops at Baxedes Beach (but to get back to Oia, you have to bus down to Fira first, then change onto an Oia-bound bus).

Buses and beach clubs go well with each other. The extensive bus system allows you to have some beer or wine without worrying about driving.

Which bus goes to the archaeological excavations? The Akrotiri bus goes to the excavation site of the Prehistoric Town of Akrotiri. The same bus also goes to Akrotiri Beach.

This is the final stop on the Akrotiri line. Get off here to hike to Red Beach. There’s a stop just before this one for the archaeological site, but if you miss that one, it’s an easy walk from the beach back to the site.

Which bus goes to Ammoudi Bay? There are no bus stops in Ammoudi Bay, but the bus from Fira to Oia stops a 15-minute walk from Ammoudi. The hike down is along a steep, winding footpath, so most people walk down then call a taxi back up. Buy a drink or meal from any of the restaurants there, and the server will be happy to call a taxi for you. Santorini Buses by Season Summer: High Season Summer is high season in Santorini with all bus routes operating at full capacity, especially from late June through early September. The busiest bus routes connecting Fira with Oia, Imerovigli, Firostefani, Kamari, and Perissa will be running about every 20 to 30 minutes throughout the day. Buses from Fira to Oia, Kamari, and Perissa (the three most popular routes) run 35 to 40 times a day each direction from early morning until around midnight. Even with the high number of buses running to these hotspots, buses often fill to capacity and won’t be able to take on additional passengers. If time is limited, it may be better to call a taxi or rent a car . Other popular routes, such as the Fira to Akrotiri line, the Airport bus, or the Fira-Firostefani-Imerovigli route, run about 15 to 20 times a day. Buses heading to the smaller beaches, like Monolithos, Baxedes, and Vlychada run several times a day. The Athinios Port bus schedule changes daily, but there is always a bus waiting at the port for every arriving ferry. The bus from Fira to Athinios Port runs an average of 12 times a day in summer; check the schedule at the Fira bus station up to one day in advance. Spring and Fall: Shoulder Seasons Spring (mid-March through early May) and fall (end of September, October, and early November) see frequent bus service to all major villages and to the main beaches at Kamari and Perissa. Buses from Fira to Oia and Kamari Beach runs about every 30 minutes almost 30 times a day from early morning to 10:00 at night. Other major routes, such as the Perissa and Akrotiri lines, run about 20 times a day from morning until 9:00 or 10:00 at night. Beach clubs and bars at the smaller beaches like Monolithos and Vlychada aren’t always open during the shoulder seasons, so buses headed that way run less often. Buses between Fira and the Airport run hourly 15 times a day on average. The Athinios Port bus schedule changes daily, but there is always a bus waiting at the port for every arriving ferry. The bus from Fira to Athinios Port runs about 6 times a day; check the schedule at the Fira bus station up to one day in advance. Winter: Low Season Winter is the low season in Santorini, and the island is quiet from late November through February. Most hotels and restaurants on the caldera and all beach clubs completely shut down in the winter, so buses run infrequently. Fira and Oia are the best-served villages during the winter months, with buses running between the two villages 15 times a day about every hour. Buses from Fira to Kamari, Perissa, and Akrotiri run about 10 times a day about every 75 to 90 minutes from roughly 7:30 in the morning until 7:00 in the evening. Buses to the smaller beaches and less-traveled villages, such as Vlychada or Exo Gonia, run twice a day (once in the morning and once in the afternoon). Some routes halt service through winter. Airport buses run 6 times a day about every 2 or so hours. The Athinios Port bus schedule changes daily, but there is always a bus waiting at the port for every arriving ferry. The bus from Fira to Athinios Port runs only a few times a day; check the schedule at the Fira bus station up to one day in advance. A Photo Guide to Santorini Buses

Santorini buses are modern, clean, and air conditioned.

All Santorini buses have large luggage areas that will always have enough space for your bags.

The luggage storage is underneath the bus.

The bus schedule for Santorini posted at the Fira bus station.

The bus schedule from Fira to the ferry port is based on the ferry schedule and changes every day. It is usually posted the day before at the Fira bus station so you can plan for the following day’s departure.

Confirm with the bus driver that the bus is actually going to your stop. Don’t rely on the signs alone. A good example: the Akrotiri bus does not go to Pyrgos, despite what this official sign at the Fira Bus Station says.

Buses and routes are usually marked, but signs can still be confusing and contradictory. Always ask the driver where a bus is going before boarding.

Sometimes, the buses at the Fira Bus Station don’t have their destination displayed, but they all have a number on their windshields. In this case, you can ask an attendant at the information desk which bus number is going to your destination. Even still, confirm with the driver.

The Fira bus station and taxi stand are right beside each other and separated by a small set of stairs. You can see the bus station sign in the background left of this photo.

Timetables are posted at the Oia Bus Station but the line for buses actually forms on the opposite side of the parking lot from the bus stand.

The Santorini ferry port is small. The buses leave from a designated area that’s easy to find. There is always at least one bus for every ferry arrival at the port.

Passengers heading to Fira from the ferry port must stow their luggage under the bus before paying and boarding.

Buses at the Santorini airport depart just outside the Arrivals gate.

Bus at the Santorini airport. Luggage gets stored in a compartment under the bus.

The Pyrgos bus stop in the main square. The Perissa and Vlychada buses are the only routes that go into the village.

Some bus stops are on the main roads and offer limited waiting area. Be aware of traffic.

Some bus stops in the countryside are hard to see until you’ve already passed them. Let your driver know ahead of time where you need to alight.

Bus stop in Perissa town.

Bus stop at Perissa Beach in front of the Mera Beach Club.

The bus stop for Megalochori is on the main road that runs near the village.

The bus stop in Imerovigli.

The bus stand in Firostefani. If you’re only traveling between Firostefani and Fira, it’s probably quicker to walk along the caldera path than to take the bus.

It is difficult to visit multiple wineries with the bus. But there are some stops near a few of the top wineries. Look for the burgundy signs with arrows pointing the way.

Santorini Brewing Company (makers of the Donkey Beers) and Estate Argyros are next to each other along the Fira-Kamari bus route.

Buses can be crowded.

And standing on popular routes is common.

Santorini Taxis Santorini Car Rental Santorini Ferry Port Guide Santorini Airport Where to Stay in Santorini The Best Hotels in Santorini Santorini Travel Guide

About Santorini Dave

Good morning, I would like information on bus transport. The plane lands at the airport on August 14 at 10.40 am and I have to take the ferry from Athinios Port at 3.30 pm. I would like to know the bus timetables. Thank you. Best regards. Alessandro

I don’t know the ferry schedules that far in advance but take the bus from the airport to Fira then check when the most appropriate bus (for you) departs Fira for the port. You should have lots of time. Sometimes there is a direct bus from the airport to the ferry port, but even if that worked out you’d be spending a lot of time at either the airport or port. Better, I think, to go via Fira and hang out in town for a bit.

Hi Dave, we are staying in Finikia. Since the Fira to Oia only runs one way, when trying to get to Fira, we get on the bus going towards Oia. Once in Oia will we need to transfer buses to get to Fira and purchase another ticket or will we be able to stay on that same bus and it will continue on to Fira?

You can catch the Oia-bound bus in Finikia, and when you board, tell the driver/ticket taker that you are going to Fira. The vendor will sell you a ticket from Oia to Fira (cash only). When the bus gets to the Oia bus terminal, you can stay on that bus – no need to get out and change buses or re-board the same bus. And you’ll only need to buy that one ticket (not a ticket to Oia plus a ticket to Fira).

But if you are there in high season, the bus may be full when it passes through Finikia. In that case, the bus won’t stop, and you’ll need to wait for the next one, or walk into Oia. Buses run that route every half hour. If it’s a busy time of day or high season, I would save time and walk to the Oia bus station, then take the Fira-bound bus from there.

Great guide. Thank you so much. If I were to take the bus from Fira to Perissa and I get out at Santo Winery, I’d obviously want to get back on the reverse trip to go back to Fira. Since Santo Winery isn’t the end of that line, how hard is it to catch a bus part way through it’s run? And since the buses only come by once an hour, how crowded are the busses typically (in July) because if they’re packed and I can’t get on, I’m stuck for another hour. Adam

In July the bus from Perissa to Fira is often full in the late afternoon. The bus from Akrotiri to Fira also passes Santo. It is full less often. My guess is you’ll be fine but there is certainly a possibility that you’ll be left waiting.

Best bus info I have ever seen. Never been before and we are arriving by private catamaran, flying in from the US. However, I travel with a medium-sized Assistance/Service Dog, fully documented. Will I be able to utilize the bus system on Santorini? Thank you, Karen E. Duncan.

I don’t have any direct experience with taking a dog on a Santorini bus. My guess is that it will depend on the driver and I’d recommend being prepared for anything. If you have a crate with you then you might be allowed to put your dog under the bus with the luggage – which wouldn’t be great and might not be air-conditioned. Taxis are small so they probably won’t be welcoming. Hiring a family van through Welcome Pickups will likely be your best bet.

How far is the walk to the fira bus station once getting off of the cable car at the top? Thanks.

I’d estimate about a 5-minute walk.

Hi Dave, the itineraries are absolutely thorough, thank you. Is there a discount for kids on the bus? Thank you Pavlína

Babies/toddlers (under 5) are free. Kids are half price up to 12 years old.

Hi Dave, great guide, thanks, only have one question. If I buy a ticket from say Perissa to Firá can I get off at any of the intervening stops and then catch a later bus to continue my trip to Firá using the same ticket? And could I do this several times using the same ticket? Thanks Tony

No, each ticket is only good for one ride. In your example, you would need to purchase a new ticket each time you got on the bus.

The Santorini bus information was clear, concise, and thorough. Having never been there, I feel totally confident I could get anywhere on Santorini easily with this guide. Thanks Dave!

Thanks Pete. We try to make it as helpful and possible. Good to hear!

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• Buses in Santorini: public bus timetable on the island

Bus service in Santorini: central bus station in Fira, Bus timetables and routes from Fira and between villages, tickets and fares

• Updated on: 2024-08-25

The bus service in Santorini is not very well organized, but all the major settlements are connected by a network of routes, and almost all parts of our island can be reached in one way or another by public transport. Not always convenient, not always fast, but… yeah, we’re sure that you can do it 🙂

The intercity bus service in Santorini is provided by a unified Greek company called KTEL. This is an independent group of bus owners who have united to form a single organization.

Usually, the drivers are also the owners of the buses – this is one of the reasons why, firstly, they take great care to keep the interior clean (so eating and drinking on the bus is probably not allowed) and, secondly, all the buses look different: different makes, different models, different colours and different ages. Just look at it!

By the way, in 2024 we have only 23 public buses in Santorini!

Buses in Santorini are the most affordable and the cheapest transport that will allow you to get almost anywhere on the island… but not always in time Santorinika Travel Agency, from personal experience of living on the island

In general, the public buses in Santorini are not the newest, but they are in fairly good condition. All buses are equipped with powerful air conditioners, so there are no problems with stuffiness in the cabins even in the hot season. Let’s move on to the details of bus services on the island of Santorini.

Santorini bus routes in 2024: how intercity buses operate on the island and where the main bus station is located

The intercity bus network in Santorini is a network with a single center from which all other roads branch off. The main bus station is located in Fira (Thira), the island’s capital. This is where all buses depart from and return to.

This is what a bus route map of Santorini looks like with stops:

Loading map...

Main bus station in Fira

The main departure point for all routes is the central bus station in Fira. Most buses leave from the station according to a timetable and tickets can be bought from the driver or conductor.

This is the main point from which you can travel around Santorini by bus. Note that there are shops near the bus stop where you can buy food and water, but there is only a very small area of shade at the bus stop, so make sure you bring a hat and sunscreen if you plan to wait a long time for your bus on a hot day.

The bus network in Santorini is generally convenient, if it weren’t for the obligatory connections. If you want to get from the north coast to the south, you’ll need two separate buses! And although you only have to spend 10-15 minutes on each, it can take half an hour to an hour to change buses! The same story can be told if you want to go from one village to another, for example from Kamari to Perissa, which is only a few kilometres away: you have to go through Fira (Thira), where the central bus station of Santorini is located, and change to a suitable bus there. Nevertheless, it is still a very popular means of transport as it is the cheapest way to travel around Santorini.

Bus timetable in Santorini in 2024

The Santorini bus timetable can make you wonder and frown: everything is very complicated on our little island 🙂

The Santorini bus schedule is only a… reference point Santorinika Travel Agency, from personal experience of living on the island

Firstly, buses in Santorini run on winter and summer timetables. The number of trips in summer is much greater, as is the frequency with which trips are made. In summer, the same route can have ten rides in a day with an interval of 30 minutes, while in winter there will only be four and with a break of several hours between rides! Also in the afternoon all trips can be cancelled: in the morning you can leave a southern town, but you can return by bus only the next day. This is Greece in its essence!

Secondly, the routes and timetables of buses in Santorini are not only seasonal, but also changes on weekends. On weekdays there are always more buses, while on weekends their number is reduced by 20-30%.

Thirdly, the Santorini bus timetable is generally… very approximate. We would advise you to use it as a reference point, but no more. You shouldn’t count on an exact schedule and risk a flight or a ship – it’s better to choose a bus a little earlier than in a very tight schedule.

We say that buses in Santorini run on GMT – Greek Maybe Time Santorinika Travel Agency, from personal experience of living on the island

Of course, the drivers try to follow the timetable quite accurately, but the situations are very different – from traffic jams to dropping off the route because of the heat or… any other reason up to “the next bus will pick you up”.

The most accurate bus timetable in Santorini is… in the bus driver’s head! Santorinika Travel Agency, from personal experience of living on the island

Below on dedicated pages for each route and village we have collected details of Santorini bus timetables. Bookmark this page and the route page you want, so you’ll always have them at hand:

• Bus from Fira to the airport of Santorini
• Bus from Fira to the sea port of Athinios
• Bus from Fira to Akrotiri
• Bus from Fira to Baxedes
• Bus from Fira to Exo Gonia
• Bus from Fira to Imerovigli
• Bus from Fira to Kamari
• Bus from Fira to Monolithos
• Bus from Fira to Oia
• Bus from Fira to Perissa
• Bus from Fira to Vlychada
• Bus from Fira to Vourvoulos

Santorini sightseeing by bus

If you prefer to travel by bus, don’t forget that we have several bus tours around the island . You can visit almost all the villages and even watch the sunset in Oia. Take a look at some of our tours:

Santorini sightseeing bus tour with wine tasting and sunset in Oia

The most detailed bus sightseeing tour: volcanic beaches, traditional villages, the peak of Mount Ilias the Prophet, wine tasting and sunset meeting Oia.

Schedule: everyday.

Oia bus tour: meet the sunset in West Santorini

Evening bus trip: south coast, Red Beach, Akrotiri Lighthouse, highest peak of Santorini near the monastery of Prophet Ilias and Oia village at sunset time!

Visit all the traditional villages of Santorini in one day

A trip to Santorini's most famous villages: Megalochori, Emporio, Firostefani, Imerovigli and Oia, where a sunset meeting is planned.

Schedule: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday.

Where to buy bus tickets in Santorini: fare and baggage fees in 2024

The cost of bus tickets in Santorini in 2024 ranges from 1.60 euros to 2.50 euros (check out the latest price list for all the routes). You won’t be able to buy a ticket at the central station ticket office: the drivers and conductors do this either on the bus itself or when boarding. The ticket office at the central bus station in Fira is increasingly becoming an information center, where you can see the latest bus timetable, ask about changes or clarify any questions about the routes.

If you arrived at the last moment and literally jumped in a departing bus, do not worry about tickets – the fare can be paid on the way. This also applies to any other stations, destinations, and intermediate stops. By the way, for the same reason it’s almost impossible to ride the bus without a ticket or get a penalty – the conductor just comes up and checks the ticket or charges you for the fare as soon as you get on the bus.

On the one hand it may be convenient, but the disadvantages of such a system are obvious: tourists can not buy a daily ticket or a season ticket for a week to immediately solve the issue with tickets for the whole vacation. There is also no way (at the moment) to buy a ticket online – drivers, first, will ask you for cash, and second, preferably in the form of coins without change or very small banknotes like five euros. It is almost impossible to get on a bus with a banknote of 100 euros and larger: the driver will not be able to give change. People sometimes use this as a trick to get a free ride, but… why incur the wrath of the Greek gods? 🙂

How to use buses in Santorini

If you are a resident of a big city with a complex and well-organized transport system, then many of the things you see on our island will seem at least strange to you. For example, writing a bus schedule by hand and attaching it to the board with a paper clip is still a normal practice:

To make it easier for you to adapt and make your own routes around Santorini by bus, we want to share some basic facts about using public transportation on our island.

Traveling around Santorini by bus: general instructions for independent travellers

Buses are the cheapest type of transport on the island, but this is only at first glance: if you want to plan a trip around Santorini by bus in one or more days, such complex routes will require numerous transfers with connections. You can easily spend several dozen euros in one day of active rides. However, it’s still cheaper than a taxi, plus all buses have comfortable seats and air conditioning – and that’s wonderful.

All in all, it’s a pretty comfortable, safe and reliable transport, which, unfortunately, doesn’t always follow the schedule. Just like the rest of Greece: “siga-siga” – everything is slow, there’s no hurry!

The bus timetable in Santorini changes frequently. No, even very often! Of course, buses on our island run all year round: in the summer season there are more routes and connections, and this is especially noticeable during the period from May to August inclusive. Buses go to the main towns like Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli and Oia every 30 minutes. For the other settlements there are buses every 30 to 90 minutes, but only during high season. With the coming of autumn, the bus service in Santorini changes drastically: the number of buses decreases many times, and some routes stop completely! In winter, buses are even more difficult to find: there are very few or, for example, they only run until noon. Want to go back? Wait for the next morning!

Bus tickets

Tickets for the bus are purchased at the boarding and only for cash.

Bus tickets are sold individually and on a one-time basis: we do not have daily or weekly bus passes, nor do we have tickets for any strictly defined number of rides.

All bus tickets are sold one-way – no return trip and no connections.

Bus stops and connections

Buses in Santorini are almost always means connections. Lucky for those travelers who stop in Fira: they can get to any point on the island by one bus.

Travellers staying in any other village will need at least two different buses to reach any other point on our island. For example, to get from Oia (north of the island) to the archaeological site of Akrotiri (south of the island), you would need to buy a bus ticket from Oia to Fira, then get off at the main bus station, find a suitable bus, buy a second bus ticket and get to the south. That’s four bus rides in one day, but if you have more serious plans and want to visit several places in one day, you might need eight or ten tickets.

Fira is the main bus transportation hub and all bus routes start and end in the capital. At the bus station of Fira you can find the most up-to-date bus timetable, including information on the route of the port of Athinios (ferry port), which can change every day and depends even on the weather. Of course, it is the ships that depend on the weather at sea, but the bus schedule is always coordinated with them, hence this correlation.

Accessibility

Public buses in Santorini are generally not equipped with facilities for disabled passengers. 99% of the bus stops too. Consider this if you have mobility issues. In such case it’s better to choose a taxi or private transfer .

Force majeur

An important point regarding the planning of bus routes: in most parts of Greece, there are public transport strikes on different days throughout the year. These strikes can affect all types of transport, including buses.

During strikes, the schedule becomes unusable: rides usually do not take place; sometimes drivers leave only a few key and most important routes, but it is only at their will – you can’t guess in advance. The cherry on the cake: strikes can happen at any time of the year and last… indefinitely: a day, two days, a week… such is the Greek reality 🙂

How to travel by bus in Santorini

Do not confuse a public bus with a tourist bus – sometimes they can look almost identical. In the lower left corner of the windshield of the public bus there should be a yellow sign, a plate or a sticker with the words “LOCAL BUS”:

The number and/or destination of the bus may also be indicated there. In addition, sometimes drivers announce the route loudly before leaving the bus station.

Getting on the bus

If you get on the bus at the central bus station, then walk right up to the bus you want and stand in line for boarding (there will most likely be a queue):

If you plan to get on a bus at a stop on the street or even right on the side of the main road, you need to somehow indicate your intention to the driver so that he knows you need him to stop. Buses in Santorini don’t always stop even at bus stops, so it can easily pass by if the driver decides for some reason that you don’t want to get on his bus.

Buying tickets

You can buy a bus ticket either from the cashier on the street in front of the bus or from the driver on the bus. There are no other places to buy bus tickets. For buses coming from the seaport, airport or bus station of Fira and Oia, payment is usually taken before boarding the bus; in all other cases you first get on the bus and then pay the conductor.

You can only pay for your ticket in cash! The exact fare is not required: you may be charged a few dozen cents more or less, depending on where you get on the bus and where you are going to get off (it must be announced to the conductor or the driver in advance).

Luggage transportation

There is no charge for luggage on the bus. Large luggage is often placed in the lower luggage compartment below the passenger level. This is especially true for buses on routes leading to or from Santorini Seaport or Airport. For inter-town bus routes, luggage racks in the cabin are more common, but you can always ask the driver to place your luggage in the lower section.

Buses in Santorini are not seat-enumerated, so each seat is not numbered – just walk up and take whatever seat you have available. Popular routes in high season often include standing seats! In this case, one only has to remember that distances on our island are quite short, and all routes usually do not require much time.

If some bus fills up and there are quite a few passengers left, then additional buses can be put on the route, which will not be on the schedule, but only if the bus station will be able to do so.

Traveling in a bus

When taking a bus around Santorini, hold on tight: the roads on the island are winding and hilly, especially the route to the seaport of Athinios. Our public buses have no seat belts, but there are handles on the backs of the seats.

Buses always stop at the final destination listed on the sign on the windshield, but they don’t always stop at stops along the way 🙂 This, by the way, is one of the reasons for the poor timetable matching. To get off at the bus stop you want, let the driver know in advance, preferably immediately upon boarding.

What can be useful for holidays in Santorini

Are you planning a holiday in Santorini? Or are you already on the island? We are happy to help you organise your vacation! Check out tips, services and offers:

Airplane tickets

Hotels and villas, tours and guides.

Santorinika

Santorini Travel Agency: group excursions and boat trips, private guides and individual itineraries, helicopter aerial excursions, yacht and catamaran rentals - everything you may need for your vacation in Santorini!

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How To Get Around Santorini – Cars, Quads, Buses & Taxis

Updated On: January 13, 2024

Written By: Pavlos Inglesis

Getting Around in Santorini can be tricky in many cases but if you know the tips I am giving you below you won’t have any issues.  You have plenty of options as you can rent a car, a motorbike, a quad, take a taxi or even take the local bus (UBER does work in Santorini and in Athens ).  So, this is how to get around Santorini.

Depending on what your budget is, you can do the following to get around Santorini:

• Use the  local Santorini Bus
• Take a local taxi (by UBER or the FREENOW Apps)
• Rent a quad
• Rent a motorbike
• UBER and LYFT do not exist in Santorini (but only in Athens )
• Use a private transfer taxi after coordinating with your hotel (they can give you all the details)

To get a feel of the local buses in Santorini you can watch my video from the Santorini Local Bus Central Station at Fira:

Riding an ATV is the funnest option to get around on the island for many people but it can be more unsafe and potentially dangerous as they are not that stable.

You can always stay at your  hotel in Santorini  and spend the whole day by the pool relaxing, but obviously if you really want to explore the island and see its beauty, then you definitely need to  move around .

This is the bus station at Imerovigli town. Looks cute right…? Imerovigli is in my opinion the best place to stay in Santorini .

HOW TO GET AROUND SANTORINI

• Best Way to Get Around Santorini:   rent a car
• Santorini buses:  The bus ticket costs 2.00-2.50 euros (depending on your destination)  – check Santorini Buses Timetables here
• Best Website to Rent A Car in Santorini :  RentalCars
• UBER and Lyft do not exist in Santorini  (it’s only available in Athens )
• The longest drive on the island is about  40mins
• Fira Main Bus Station on Google Maps
• All local Buses have  Fira town as the main hub . All buses depart from and finish their route there.
• From Fira to the Airport is a 10 mins drive. The taxi shouldn’t charge you more than 20 euros for such a route
• From Athinios Ferry Port to Fira is a 20 mins drive and the taxi should charge you about 15-20 euros
• There are no taxi meters in the taxis and fares are fixed.  So, always ask in advance what the price will be. If you want to call a taxi then you need to call : +30 22860 22555

RECOMMENDED WEBSITES FOR GREECE:

🛏️ Booking.com   is the website with the most available rooms and Private Villas in Athens, Santorini , Mykonos & Crete  (more than Airbnb!)

⛴️ Ferryhopper   is the best website to book your ferry tickets or check the timetables for Santorini, Mykonos , Crete & all greek islands

🏺 Get Your Guide  has the best and largest variety of Tours in Athens and the greek islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete etc)

🚙 Rentalcars is the easiest way to rent a car or a quad for Greece with thousands of available options

✈️ Booking.com Flights  has all the available flights to and from the greek islands

🚕 Book Your Driver (Taxi) directly with booking.com’s large and safe platform of available certified drivers

How can you get from the Airport / Port to your Hotel in Santorini ?

That’s the first thing you have to worry about but to be honest most of the  hotels in Santorini can normally come and pick you up from the airport or the ferries port.

Always check with your hotel if they offer such a service.

Be careful though because some hotels charge a lot to come and pick your from the airport.

Bear in mind this is literally a 10 mins drive and any taxi shouldn’t charge you more than 30 euros in any case.

So if a hotel asks for anything more than that then avoid it and just take any taxi from the airport (or the port).

The only problem with that is that there will normally about 8-10 taxis (maximum) at the airport waiting for travellers and this is definitely not enough. So you have to hurry up, otherwise you may have to wait up to 30mins for a taxi to come back from another route.

Some of the most premium hotels may offer that for free.

It’s also good to know that there is no UBER or Lyft in Santorini !

Santorini Car Rental Tips

The best way to get around Santorini is by car.  I keep on telling everyone who asks me that it’s only by having your own means of transportation you would be able to explore the island and not waste too much time on waiting for the bus.

Where can you rent a car for Santorini?

If you are visiting Santorini in any month other than May, June, July, August, September I strongly suggest that you book well in advance online eventhough there are tens of car rental places on the island.

The best and safest website to rent a car for Santorini is:  RentalCars.Com

You should definitely book a car online before you arrive to avoid the risk of not having one (especially in the high season).

How is Driving in Santorini?

In Santorini we drive on  the right side of the road . Like the USA.

You do need an international driver’s license if you have a non-EU (European) license but everyone on the island is pretty flexible about it and you won’t have any issues with any driver’s license to be honest, no matter where it’s coming from.

Yes, Santorini streets can be narrow but it’s nothing scary to be honest, if you have some driving experience.

It is true though that in the summer months of July, August and September you have to be slightly more careful as there is more people and cars on the island.

Also, be careful of the hundreds of quad bikes that may come out of nowhere…

This is how driving in Santorini looks like:https://www.youtube.com/embed/AukTQtjixjI?feature=oembed&start&end&wmode=opaque&loop=0&controls=1&mute=0&rel=0&modestbranding=0

Why Renting A Car is the Best Way To Get Around Santorini?

By having your own car  you can explore the island in the best possible way  without worrying about timings.

That’s very important if you only have 2-3 days on the island and it’s also very important if you are going home (or hotel) late after a night out (be careful about drinking though as police are carrying out alcohol tests on every corner during the summernights).

Having a car is also giving you the opportunity to go to some places that the buses don’t go.

Santorini is a relatively small island so you won’t have to worry about driving hundreds of kilometres every day.

The longest drive you would probably do is about 20 kilometres for about 30-35 mins…and that’s it!

I’d also say that renting a car in Santorini is also a much safer option from a quad bike or an ATV and it is probably cheaper after all than taking a taxi all the time.

What are the Pros and Cons of renting a car in Santorini?

Pros: – You are more independent and you can go anywhere – You can take it directly from the airport upon your arrival – You can see the whole of the island in one day if you want!

Cons: – It can be more expensive – You might be scared to drive through the narrow streets of Santorini – You might have to worry about parking (especially at the top attractions during the high season)

Santorini Local Buses Tips

Taking the  bus in Santorini  is obviously the cheapest way to move around as with around 2 euros you can go pretty much to all the big towns and main attractions.

CLICK HERE TO CHECK the updated Santorini Bus Timeschedule.

You can take the bus to pretty much every major town or attraction (including Oia) but the thing is that you don’t get a bus whenever you want it and things can get pretty busy and chaotic during the hot summer months of July, August and September.

Where can the local Santorini buses take you?

From the  timetable here  you can see that there is a bus from Fira to  Akrotiri, Perissa, Kamari, Airport, Oia, Imerovigli and Athinios port.

Here are roughly all the destinations that the local bus can take you along with the approximate time that it takes to get there:

How much does the Santorini bus cost?

A single ticket cost anything from  1.80 euros to 2.50 euros  depending where you are going. You can buy a ticket from the driver inside the bus and you should always pay by cash. Cards are not accepted unfortunately. (FOR THE MOST UP TO DATE PRICES ALWAYS ASK THE BUS DRIVER)

What are the pros and cons of taking the bus in Santorini?

Pros: – You don’t have to worry about driving – It’s by far the cheapest way to get around Santorini (with 2 euros you can visit any major town)

Cons: – Buses only go from and to Fira – The bus stop may not be very close to where you want to go (especially for your arrival where you might be carrying your luggage) – For some areas the bus is not that frequent and if you are visiting only for 2-3 days you may waste time waiting for it – The bus might be full (especially during July/August/September) and you may have to wait the next one – There isn’t a bus for every town area (if you are visiting wineries there isn’t always a bus that can take you there)

Santorini Taxis Tips

Getting a taxi in Santorini  is another way of moving around on the island.

But to be honest if you are going to use a taxi for every place you want to visit then you are probably better of by  renting a car  as it can become very expensive during the high season as prices sky-rocket.

This is all you need to know about taxis in Santorini:

• The TAXIs are of grey/silver colour  and usually they are a MERCEDES brand (not sure why…)
• There is no UBER or Lyft in Santorini
• The main taxi hub is at Fira.  A taxi hub in greek is also called a “taxi piatsa”.
• If you want to call a taxi then you have to call +30 22860 22555
• You should not pay more than 25 euros for any ride, anytime on the island!
• Always ask/agree the fare with the driver before you get onto the taxi
• You may have to wait some time till your taxi arrives if you are on the other side of the island (all taxis use Fira as their basis)
• After 00:00 midnight you will be charged more (normally double)
• It can be very difficult to find a taxi (even if you call) after midnight during July-August
• All drivers speak english very well
• Bear in mind that there is a limited amount of taxis on the island
• There are some taxis always waiting for travellers at the Airport and at the Athinios main Port but you have to be quick…
• You shouldn’t pay more than 30 euros from the Airport to Fira (it’s literally a 10 mins drive)

There are many ATV or motorbike rental shops on the island and you won’t have any issues finding a vehicle, as long as you book it well in advance.

In my honest opinion,  the best way to get around Santorini is by  renting a car .   It will give you the flexibility and the opportunity to explore the island in a much better way without wasting time and money elsewhere. Taking the bus is the most affordable option  and taking the taxi can also be a good option if you don’t want to drive and you want to go somewhere quickly. It may cost you more though. Many people rent a quad nowadays, but it is a less safe option and it can actually be on the same price range as renting a car, so i am not sure if it’s smart at the end of the day (yes it can be fun for a few hours but for your main means of transportation, I am not so sure…)

The choice is yours!

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29 thoughts on “how to get around santorini – cars, quads, buses & taxis”.

Thank you for this info! I am planning my first trip to Greece. This is very helpful!

I am glad it helps you! Let me know if you need any other info.

This has been EXTREMELY helpful! Thank you so much for all of the honest, straightforward, insightful information. I have saved the page to use while we are traveling.

Hello Pavlos, Thank you for this helpful site. I had some questions about Luggage. Can the smaller cars handle larger luggage’s? I see there are no SUV/Jeeps like in the USA. Any advise will be helpful.

Also can you say a little about parking on the island? What is the charge? Are there enough spaces? Street parking? safety? etc.? Also how about in the Fira area where it’s busy. Where can I park there?

I don’t believe you will have any issues carrying your luggage as the cars can normally accommodate anything as they are regular sedans. The main reasons ypu won’t find SUVs in Santorini is that streets are very narrow!! Also, bear in mind that some hotels usually have mini vans to get you to and from the airport. In regards to parking, I am not going to lie to you: it can be extremely difficult for Fira, Oia and Pyrgos in the hot season (June-October). You may have to park well outside the main town and then you may have already to walk 10-20 mins to reach the center of the town. There are no available parking areas with paid bays but only just street parking, whenever you find an available spot. There is a dedicated prking area in Oia though and it can cost up to 20 euros for 4 hours which is pretty expensive (these charges change every year and they really depend on… how many people are visiting the island…).

Hi Pavlos, thanks for this detailed guide! What about e-bikes? Google Maps doesn’t show cycling routes unfortunately. To cycle from Fira to the south areas (Pyrgos, Akrotiri, Perivolos and Kamari), will it be difficult? Thank you!

Unfortunately Google Maps is not that up to date on cycling routes in Greece but they definitely exist. The island is pretty small so distances are not a problem. However, uphills might be an issue as the Santorini (and Greece overall) is very mountainous with lots of uphillls and downhills. Also, if you visit the island in July, August or September I would highly advise you to be extremely careful as you would be cycling next to lots of cars and ATVs in narrow roads on top extreme hot temperatures (that can go up to 40 degrees Celsius in some cases…). It can be dangerous and exhausting, even for an e-bike.

Hi, What bus do I need to catch to go from Thira to Pyrgos? Pyrgos is not listed as a destination in the bus timetable.

There are frequent buses to Pyrgos village from Fira. If you go to the main bus station at Fira you should be able to find all the timetables. It’s also the bus that goes to Exo Gonia. The drive from Fira to Pyrgos is 10mins.

Hi, is there any place to rent a 4 seater buggy (side by side) for the day? I have looked around online, but all I see are 2 person buggies available.

I am really not sure about that to be honest. You have to contact the rental companies directly.

Are there any tips for travelling around Santorini with young children please? Can you take pushchairs on the bus? Are child fares the same price as adults? Do you need to use car seats in taxis?

Things are very relaxed in regards to child seats in Greece in general.

However, (being a father myself) the best thing you can do is to rent your own car to move around the island… It’s honetly going to be the best option.

Rental Car companies do have car seats for children.

Children younger than 12 years I believe they travel for free on the local bus but I am not 100% sure so you may hvae to ask the driver itself.

But as I said, the best thing you can do is basically rent your own car… it’s going to make your life a million times easier while on the island.

I appreciate your page so much! Is Uber now available? I’m staying in Pyrgos and I noticed a bus ride there is not as frequent. I’m wondering if taxi is my best option?

Yes, indeed. Taxis are the best options if you don’t want to wait for hours for the local bus…

My family of 5 (all adults) will be arriving by cruise ship to the Old Port August 9th.

Can you recommend a route for us to get to Vlichada? We will be renting a boat for the afternoon.

Can a taxi fit 5 people? Should we rent a car? Take the bus?

Hi Margaret,

My adivce is always to rent a car because it gives you the flexibility to do whatever you want to do while on the island. If you want to get to Vlychada Google Maps is your friend as the route that suggests is pretty accurate. A taxi is probably not going to fit 5 people as well so you may need to take 2 taxis or waste time waiting for the bus to Vlychada that is not that frequent unfortunately…

Where on the island can I hire a car and driver to take me around?

Hello! thanks for all the helpful information. Is it easy to get a taxi from Oia to Fira at night – after 22:00?

Sure! There are always taxis (especially in September) waiting at the airport. But you have to be quick though…

We will be in Santorini in late September

Can we pay for 3 bus tickets in 1 transaction, or does each family member have to pay for their own ticket separately?

You can pay for all of them together but every person must have his/her own ticket.

Do taxis take Visa credit cards?

Thanks again!

They mostly do but some of them may require cash so you should ask before you get in the taxi, to make sure. It’s generally not a bad idea to have some cash with you anywhere in Greece as sometimes the card machine may be “broken”…

Thank you for the quick reply!

Hi Pavlos, My wife and I have been to Santorini 5 times, this June is our last. The only place we want to go to is Akrotiri archeological site. I rented a car, saw the requirement for an International License, I called rentalcar.com / Sunbird and the woman said there is no way they will rent a car without it. Can I book a taxi ahead of time from the top of the tram in Fira? I’m desperate. James

Hi James, The top of the cable is literally 10 mins walk time from the main bus station at Fira and also the main central taxi station which is next to each other pretty much. I highly advise you to walk there and either take a taxi or even the bus depending on how much time you have. It’s very easy and nothing to worry about.

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TOP RATED HOTELS IN:

Oia:  Maregio Suites Fira:  Cosmopolitan Suites Imerovigli:  Grace Santorini Firostefani:  Tsitouras Perivolos:  Orabel Suites Perissa:  Anastasia Princess Kamari:  Sunrise Studios

TOP RATED VILLAS IN:

Oia:  Anemi House

Fira:  Anteliz Villa

Kamari:  Eolia Villa

Pyrgos:  Sensation Villa

Akrotiri:  Cavo Ventus

Firostefani:  Villa Aura

Imerovigli:  Grace Villa

BEST THINGS TO DO IN SANTORINI:

🌄 Sunset Cruise with Meals and Drinks

🍷 Half-Day Wine Adventure Tour

🥾 Hike the path from Fira to Oia

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My name is Pavlos and I come from the beautiful country called Greece. You can follow me on Twitter here and I will try to do my best to respond to you personally. This is my blog to help you plan your next holidays to Greece and the greek islands, whether it is Santorini, Mykonos, Crete or even Athens. I was actually born in Athens and I have been to almost all of the greek islands and pretty much most of mainland Greece. I know the ins and outs of my country and hopefully my travel blog will help you make the most of your holidays.

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KTEL Buses in Santorini

KTEL buses at the port

Below, you can find all the needed information about the buses in Santorini : • Bus tickets & prices • Routes • Map

In brief, KTEL buses are the cheapest way to travel around the island and are the only public transport available. Note that KTEL buses only connect the main town (Fira) with other villages and beaches. As a result, there is no direct route from one village or beach to another and a transfer to Fira's central bus station is inevitable. Buses can get crowded. A rental car is always recommended, at least for the few days you plan to explore the island.

Several routes can take you to several villages, the port, the airport, and other touristy locations. Although schedules change regularly, KTEL buses in Santorini are considered reliable and numerous visitors choose them for their transfers.

Bus tickets

The prices for bus tickets in Santorini range from €1.80 to €3.00 and are determined by the length of the route. Certain categories of passengers may be able to get a discount after showing the relevant papers (families with three or more underage children, individuals with disabilities & students). Tickets can be bought directly from the bus driver and only in cash (€) . Purchasing tickets in advance or using them on a different route is not possible. Each passenger picks a random seat. In certain cases, when a bus gets too crowded, some passengers may have to stand or wait for the next bus instead.

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The buses of Santorini are comfortable and air-conditioned. There is storage space under the bus for suitcases and other bulky luggage, which you can use for free after purchasing your ticket. On the other hand, smaller bags can be stored inside overhead racks or under your seat. Note: KTEL buses are not suitable for wheelchair users .

Getting to your destination

All direct bus routes lead to Fira , where the Central Bus Station of Santorini lies. From Fira Bus Station, you will have to switch buses to get to any other location in Santorini. There are no circular routes from one side of the island to the opposite one, except for a few seasonal itineraries (directly to the airport, for instance) that are not always available. Drivers may skip some less popular bus stops, so if you wish to get on/off, let the driver know in advance or sign.

Schedules of Santorini buses change regularly and the official website may not post an updated schedule; it is best to keep your program flexible and find the exact schedule when you arrive. Alternatively, you can contact the KTEL company directly (via phone or email) ahead of time.

Bear in mind that during the high season (May to September), Santorini buses usually depart every 30 or 60 minutes . During the rest of the year , routes are scheduled once per hour or even less frequently, depending on the time of the year. During the off-season , buses stop around 19:00 or earlier , but in the summer, they may be available until 23:00 or even later. Night buses (from 00:30 to 05:00) may also be available for a higher price, however, that is not guaranteed. Note that some routes may only be available from Monday to Friday during the off-season months.

Below, you can find more information on destinations in Santorini you can reach by public bus (bus schedules to the airport, port and more locations), ticket prices, availability, trip length per route, and more.

Important notes: - Availability may change, depending on the season. During winter, most buses stop around 19:00. - More in-between stops may be available for some of the routes. - Always double-check the timetables when you arrive at the port/airport of Santorini. - We recommend asking in advance regarding availability before relying on night routes for your late-night transport.

• From Fira to Santorini International Airport (Airport Express)

Availability: From 06:15 to 23:10 Stops: No stops (direct) Price: €2.00 during the day, €2.50 for night routes Duration: 10'

• From Fira to Akrotiri

Availability: From 08:30 to 20:00, usually one bus per hour Stops: Fira - Karterados - Messaria - Vothonas - Pyrgos - Megalochori - Akrotiri - Red Beach Price: €2.00 during the day, €2.50 for night routes Duration: 20'

• From Fira to Athinios Port (main ferry port)

Availability: Changes daily, depending on ferry arrivals Stops: Fira - Karterados - Messaria - Vothonas - Athinios Port Price: €2.50 during the day, €3.10 for night routes Duration: 20'

• From Fira to Baxedes

Availability: Seasonal, around five routes per day Stops: Ν/Α Price: €2.00 during the day, €2.50 for night routes Duration: 15'

• From Fira to Emporio

Availability: One or two routes per hour. Alternatively, take the bus to Perissa until the stop at Emporio. Stops: Ν/Α Price: €2.00 during the day, €2.50 for night routes Duration: 30'

• From Fira to Imerovigli (circular route)

Availability: Approximately one bus route per hour, from 08:40 to 21:10 Stops: Fira - Imerovigli - Firostefani - Fira Price: €2.00 during the day, €2.50 for night routes Duration: 30'

• From Fira to Kamari

Availability: From 07:15 to 23:15 during the summer Stops: Fira - Karterados - Messaria - Exo Gonia - Kamari Price: €2.00 during the day, €2.50 for night routes Duration: 20'

• From Fira to Monolithos and Exo Gonia

Availability: Seasonal, from three to ten bus routes per day Stops: Fira - Karterados - Messaria - Airport - Monolithos Price: €2.00 during the day, €2.50 for night routes Duration: 20'

• From Fira to Oia

Availability: 07:00 - 22:00 Stops: Fira - (Pori Beach) - (Koloumpos Beach) - Oia Price: €2.00 during the day, €2.50 for night routes Duration: 30'

• From Fira to Perissa and Perivolos

Availability: From 07:00 to 23:00 Stops: Fira - Karterados - Messaria - Vothonas - Pyrgos - Megalochori - Emporio - Perivolos - Perissa Price: €2.50 during the day, €3.10 for night routes Duration: 35'

• From Fira to Vlychada Beach

Availability: Seasonal, from three to ten bus routes per day Stops: No stops Price: €2.50 during the day, €3.10 for night routes Duration: 20'

• From Fira to Vourvoulos

Availability: Seasonal, around two bus routes per day Stops: No stops Price: €2.00 during the day, €2.50 for night routes Duration: 15'

If you are not contented with bus availability in Santorini, consider booking a private transfer or renting a car online , in advance.

Map of Santorini Bus Routes

Discover a simplified map with the most popular bus routes in Santorini:

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• Santorini Panorama Tour – 3 hours
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Our Guided Tours in Santorini

These are our most popular tours & suggestions. The sights and attractions proposed give you just an idea about things to do. You are welcome to  create your own tour that will be planned to suit your interests!

Santorini Panorama Tour – 3 hours

Santorini Half Day Tour – 5 hours

Authentic Tastes of Sanorini Tour – 5 hours

Santorini Highlights Tour – 6 hours

Santorini Wineries Tour – 4 hours

Santorini Oia Sunset Tour – 4 hours

Accessible Santorini Private Tour – 5 hours

Check our accessible santorini private tour.

We are proud to be offering tours and transfers friendly to the wheelchair user. Our wheelchair accessible mini van allows passengers with mobility issues to enjoy Santorini without barriers .

We booked this trip for an afternoon cruise ship visit. Due to high winds and tendering ashore problems we were nearly 2 hours late but with the aid of telephone updates, they were still waiting for us and our trip went ahead as planned. The lady who run Santorini Karavas Travel was amazing and our driver was excellent with good English and local knowledge. He stopped at three panoramic view points which were stunning, and then gave us an hour and a half to explore the incredibly beautiful town of Oia. We then met back at our rendezvous for the return by a different road, arriving back in Thera at sunset. Altogether a memorable three hours at a very reasonable price compared with the Ship’s shore excursion program.

An absolute highlight of our seventeen-day cruise from Rome to Istanbul was our visit to Santorini thanks to Karavas Travel. My wife had polio when she was young and uses a wheelchair and crutches. After seeing pictures of Santorini for years we thought it was cliffs and hills and not accessible. WE WERE WRONG!! We booked an accessible Santorini tour for our party of four with Karavas Travel and it far exceeded any expectations. Dina assisted us from start to finish explaining the tram system and introduced us to Thomas our tour guide/driver and “do everything” person. We booked the four-hour tour but added on two hours because there was so much to see and visit. This was not a windshield tour!Worth every penny or Euro!!

We’ve taken a number of tours on our cruise to the Greek islands and this tour of Santorini is by far the best. To start with, the tour vehicle is a 20 person Mercedes and is modern, clean and comfortable. The best part of the tour, however, was our fabulous guide George. George was very friendly, knowledgeable and engaging. He took very good care of the group and was extremely knowledgeable about the history of Santorini and of every site we visited. He knows exactly where to go and where to stand to take the best photos and always volunteers to take pics of us by each of the iconic landmarks. It was a memorable tour and we would gladly and definitely do it again!

Outstanding customer service! Dina was incredibly helpful and flexible, allowing us to customize our tour based on our interests and abilities. Traveled with my 75-year-old mother with limited mobility. Our driver Tomas was incredibly helpful and considerate, stopping at places where she would be able to walk and not feel like we missed out on anything. Incredible people to work with and I am 100% satisfied with our tour. Santorini has long been a bucket list item, and it absolutely lived up to my every expectation! My highest recommendation.

We’re glad we decided to book this tour with you. George, our guide, was competent, thorough, and took good care of us. We were especially impressed with his solicitous care of the family that needed special assistance.

Brilliant way to see the island. We wouldn’t have been able to see or do half of what we did without your help, thank you. Dina was extremely thoughtful and made us feel so welcome. Thomas was a great guide, very informative. A fantastic day, if I could give it 6 stars I would!

This was a spectacular experience. We only had one day in Santorini, but we feel so satisfied. We highly recommend this tour to others! They went above and beyond in making sure we were all comfortable and well-informed. There were very nice touches as well such as providing cold water and informing us of public restrooms and a great gelato spot with ample time to enjoy all our stops!

Anna was amazing as a tour guide and Dina was absolutely amazing. Tassos the driver was so sweet and such a safe and amazing driver. The tour was great with AC AND water included. I got to stay at black beach at the end and no problem at all. Absolutely great!

I booked this tour because I had a limited amount of time in Santorini due to being on a cruise ship. I received great service with a wonderful driver and we got to see Santorini the way we wanted to. Thank you Dina for making my day in Santorini so special. You are amazing and made my tour so memorable. I appreciate your professionalism, friendliness, and how much you cared about making my day one that I will never forget! I would highly recommend Santorini Karavas Travel. Dina and her team are top notch!

We booked a accessible private tour as I am in a wheelchair and this tour was wonderful the knowledge and helpfulness of our driver/tour guide Tomas made the day great to see the areas of Santorini that I would not be able to see on a coach tour. The last visit was the winery of Argyros Estate and we had great time trying the wines and purchased some to take home maybe or drink in Santorini.

If you are an older traveler or even disabled and even if you are able bodied, Karavas Travel is the finest tour company you will find. They made it possible for me to view far more sights than I could could have seen otherwise. They cared for me and assisted me every step of the way. My family was given the opportunity to explore many extraordinary places with breathtaking views. There is no better tour company to be had!

We had the best time! Chris is a fantastic tour guide and photographer :). Dena the owner of the company met with us when we arrived to discuss the details of the excursion and what we wanted to do. Santorini is gorgeous and Chris knows all the main spots and added views that we would have never seen! Great time! Plus air conditioned really nice van in between added perk. Oia is incredible! Thank you Chris!

Enjoyed this small group tour as compared with busload of people. George our tour guide was excellent, speaks very fluent English, attentive, knowledgeable and fun. He was able to describe each place as well as took our photos. We were able to see everything included in the Itinerary and had time to spare, that otherwise we won’t be able to do on our own due to limited time with the cruise ship. George and Dina both are outstanding in customer service, highly recommended.

Our driver Thomas was excellent with the history of the island and Greece. Dina is at the office has long family history on the island. The tour was great!! We got a great view. We are here at first of May. Very small crowds without the boards of cruise ships. We HIGHLY recommend them for any tour. They also go to the volcano and boat tours.

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With one of the most luxurious and newest fleet on the Greek market, we can offer our services to a wide variety of people in the Santorini island. The breathtaking Santorini is internationally famous for being the place of gathering artists, who are inspired by the beauty of the landscape and the magnificent purple sunsets. Come to travel in the most beautiful island in the planet...

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Bus tours constitute the ideal way to see the sights of Santorini , admire the natural beauty of the Greek island and become acquainted with its rich history . Take a tour of interesting museums and get to know the local culture by booking one of the bus tours we have chosen for you, by top tour organizers of Santorini.

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A bus tour around Santorini will allow you to explore the island’s most beautiful and popular sights all in one day! Especially, for those visiting the island for a short period of time, it will be a perfect choice, as in a few hours you will set your eyes on scenic villages , stunning beaches like the Red and Black beach, and important historical sights. Not to mention the spectacular sunset in Oia that you will have the chance to witness at the end of some of the tours!

This is a brief guide on which bus tour you should choose based on your vacation plan , your interests , and your preferences. Some of the essential factors to consider are the duration of the tour and the level of privacy offered.

-Private Bus Tours: If privacy and comfort are all you seek, then a private bus tour is the ideal choice for you! Your personal vehicle will take you to all the top attractions of Santorini, and your own experienced guide will offer you useful information and insights into the history of the island.

-Duration: Whether you wish to spend an entire day exploring the island or just dedicate a few hours touring around, there are various tour options available. You can choose between full-day tours or 5-6 hour tours, private or you and your group, or shared with other people. You will get to visit the same spots in most of them, but the longer the tour, the more time you will have to spend at each location!

-Cruise ship visits: If your plan is to visit Santorini during a cruise, it would be advisable to arrange a private bus tour, which provides you with the flexibility to tailor your itinerary and starting time. As your time on the island will be limited and you will have to queue for the cable car, a bus tour is the most efficient way to make the most of it! Your personal guide will meet you at the top of the cable car and you will start your touring experience around the island. The tour will also end at the same spot.

-Wine Tours: For wine lovers and those who wish to meet Santorini’s rich history in wines, there are several bus tours available. All of them involve visiting some of the most well-known wineries on the island and experiencing wine tasting of various wine labels while sampling traditional local snacks.

All the Tours, Cruises and Activities you can do in Santorini

Yes , you can cancel your reservation and you are entitled to a refund of up to 100% of the initial amount, based on the cancellation policy of the tour/cruise that appears on the product page.

Please visit the page of the tour you are interested in so that you can find out its cancellation policy or contact us . Furthermore, once you have made your reservation, an email with a link from which you can manage/cancel your reservation will be sent to you.

Yes, in all Private Tours you can adjust the tour itinerary based on your preferences.

Don’t worry! The tour operator’s vehicle will come to the nearest possible spot to pick you up. After booking, you will receive a voucher via email which contains a map with the pickup location.

Of course, you are! The tours and cruises that offer free pickup/drop-off services will serve you wherever you stay. Please note your address on the checkout page to arrange your transfer. There are tours that set meeting points in central locations of most of Santorini’s villages.

Both know the island. The only difference is that a tour assistant cannot enter a museum or an archeological site. So if you would like a guide with deep knowledge of the history of the island and if you wish to explore a historical site, you should book a tour with a professional guide.

The easiest and most common way to reach Fira is by a cable car . It takes only three minutes. On the other hand, if you’re feeling adventurous and decide to walk to Fira, it’ll be 587 steps. Local donkey ride is another easy way to get there.

Important note: Please note that Gialos, the Old Port is nestled at the foot of a rocky cliff below Fira. If you decide to go by a cable car or on a donkey, you’ll have to pay 6€ per side of the ride.

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This is all you need to know about transport in Santorini

Jun 18, 2024 • 6 min read

Hiring a car gives you flexibility but traffic is a headache © Atlantide Phototravel / Getty Images

Though the many hills and volcano hikes will put your thigh muscles to the test, getting around Santorini is relatively easy. It's a small island, meaning journey times tend to be short and you have numerous options to navigate it.

A comprehensive bus network runs during the tourist season with frequent service and cheap fares, and taxis are relatively affordable. If you'd prefer your own wheels, motorbikes and cars are available to hire but the prices shoot up during high season. And as for parking...good luck with that during July and August.

A few public boats serve the surrounding islands or you can get a cheap ride on a small boat (caïque) to scenically shuttle along the shore between beaches. There’s even a cable car serving the main town of Fira . Start planning the incredible things you want to do when you arrive because we've got all the info you need to know about getting to them.

The bus is a great option for budget travelers

A comprehensive network of buses covers Santorini. Run by the national collective KTEL , services run throughout the day and you can get to most important places on the island, including the airport, for about €2 (fares vary slightly depending on the distance of the trip). Services are reasonably frequent, e.g. a bus from the main town of Fira to the beach town of Kamari runs every 30 minutes throughout the day, with the last buses late in the evening. Travel times are short.

Incongruently for an island where journeys are measured in minutes, the buses are those typically found on long-distance coach services complete with narrow entry doors. This only compounds the crush of riders in summer when demand easily outstrips the supply of seats and you may have to wait a while for your turn.

Buses meet all ferries in the port of Athinios, but service down to the port is sporadic, so you’ll need to check schedules before your sailing.

Hiring a car gives you flexibility but it can be stressful

It’s simple to rent a car on Santorini, either from a well-known brand name or from one of dozens of local vendors. Arrange it in advance or prepare to bargain a bit on arrival. It may be easiest to hire a car through your accommodation, although vehicles are a hot commodity in summer when rates soar along with the temperature.

Note that a car can give you full freedom to explore Santorini but there are drawbacks, especially in summer. The relatively short drives along the island’s diminutive road network can be harrowing due to narrow lanes, cliffside plunges and incessant peak season traffic. Parking is also stressful in Fira and at the beaches; expect hefty fines if you decide to leave your car in an unapproved spot.

A good strategy is to rent a car for just a day or two of exploration, thus saving yourself from the attendant hassles at other times.

A motorbike is well suited to the narrow roads

Making the steep climb back up to Fira after a languid day at the beach is reason enough to rent a motorbike. Buzzing about Santorini on two wheels is an excellent alternative to driving a car as the narrow roads are less of an issue and parking is much easier. It’s very easy to rent a motorbike or scooter but there is an important caveat for non-EU residents – you’ll need a motorcycle or motorbike license valid in your home country.

Cycling can be a hair-raising experience

Steep twisting roads and very narrow lanes with myriad blind curves are just some of the challenges to riding a bike on Santorini. Add in drivers maniacally speeding to make up for time spent stalled in traffic and the challenges multiply. Still, you can easily rent a bike on the island from multiple sources. Ask about e-bikes, which are becoming more available in Santorini, unless the many hills fit into your training scheme for the Tour de France.

Take a boat to neighboring islands

Boats make the short run to the charming island of Thirassia a few times a week – it's just across from the little waterfront village of Ammoudi at the north end of the main island. The fare is €2.10. There is less-frequent service from the main port of Athinios, check schedules in advance.

Excursion boats will take you to the uninhabited volcanic islets in the middle of the caldera and may include a stop in Thirassia as well. Such trips start at about €40 and are heavily marketed around Santorini. Other possibilities include day trips to various beaches, which can be a fine (and very scenic) way to beat the crowds and traffic on the sinuous roads across the hills.

Small boats (caïques) can be hired from busier beaches to reach smaller and inaccessible ones for a modest fee.

Taxis are a comfortable option but the cost racks up

Taxis can be hard to come by during peak season as there are about 40-50 cars servicing thousands of people. You’ll find them at the airport, the ferry port and at a taxi stand near the main bus stop in Fira. Fares are reasonable if you're traveling in a group – from the port in Athinios up to the sprawl of accommodation around Fira is around €30. Luggage may cost a bit more.

Most places to stay will also pick you up at the ferry port for about €20 if you arrange it in advance. You can also prebook private transfers rather than waiting around for an available cab. If you're taking a taxi to spend a day at a beach, ask the driver about a pickup later in the day.

Skip the traffic on a cable car

Just like in the Alps, but with endless cerulean water views replacing snowy vistas, a cable car system zips up and down the steep mountainside between the main town of Fira and the tiny port village of Fira Skala some 400m (1300ft) below. Service is frequent in summer when cruise ships dock here, less so other times. The fare is €6.

Get your steps in and explore on foot

Walking around Santorini is more like a workout than a legitimate means to get around. The steep hills and lack of footpaths are just some of the challenges. For example, the footpath from the cruise ship docks at Fira Skala up to Fira has over 600 steps. A notable exception are the walks between popular beaches such as those in and around Perissa.

One popular route, although it’s more of an excursion than a practical jaunt, is the 10km route (6 miles) from Fira to Oia.

Accessible transportation in Santorini

Accessible transportation is very limited in Santorini. The public buses do not have wheelchair access nor do the taxis. Steep stone stairs abound and crowds jam village walkways in summer. Some private tour companies have wheelchair-accessible vehicles but prebooking is essential.

This article was first published Oct 3, 2021 and updated Jun 18, 2024.

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About Marinakis

I'm Nikolaos Marinakis, CEO and Founder of Marinakis Tours Travel Agency with experience in tourism services from 2000.

I believe Marinakis Tours has gathered together an exceptional team of dedicated staff to administer your travel program.

Our principals have a commitment and philosophy that has not changed,our responsibility is two-fold:

-To the traveler whose time, patience, and career rely on our efficiency, expertise, and creative faring.

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Book a transfer with Marinakis Travel Agency! We quarrantee the best service together with the most economical prices in the island. You will be transfered safely from the Airport or Port of the island to

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Marinakis Travel Agency can also provide a private transfer to any destination on the island. Safety and comfort are quarranteed and your family and friends can enjoy round trips, night outings, transportation to a port

V.I.P. Transfers

Marinakis Tours is a travel agency that can also offer trasportation on the island of Santorini in the luxurious Limos that we provide to our customers. Book one of our Luxury Limos and enjoy round

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How to get around santorini – everything you need to know.

Welcome to Santorini, a jewel of the Aegean Sea known for its stunning sunsets, white-washed buildings, and crystal-clear waters. When planning a trip to this enchanting island though, one of the essential aspects to consider is how to get around Santorini and explore all the beauty and charm it has to offer. Navigating this picturesque island can be an adventure in itself, with its winding streets, steep cliffs and diverse modes of transportation. Whether you’re here to soak in the views, explore hidden gems, or simply relax on the beach, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know to move around Santorini effortlessly and make the most of your visit. From buses to rental options, we’ve got you covered. Let’s discover the best ways to experience this enchanting island.

How big is Santorini?

Santorini, despite its worldwide fame, is relatively small, covering an area of approximately 76 square kilometers (29 square miles). The island’s compact size makes it easy to explore, with the longest distance from one end to the other being around 18 kilometers (11 miles). This means you can travel between major attractions and picturesque villages, such as Fira, Oia, and Akrotiri, within a short drive or bus ride. To drive from the northern end of Santorini (Oia) to the southern end (Akrotiri) takes about 45 minutes. The island’s small size, combined with its well-connected road network, ensures that visitors can effortlessly experience all that Santorini has to offer, from its iconic caldera views to its beautiful beaches and charming towns.

Getting around Santorini by Car

Renting a car in Santorini is a great way to get around the island’s stunning landscapes and unique sights. Renting a car gives you the freedom to set your own schedule, avoid crowded buses, and take in the stunning landscapes at your own pace. The main roads are well-maintained and signposted, making navigation relatively straightforward. Parking is generally available in most towns and near popular attractions, though it can be challenging in busy areas like Fira and Oia during peak tourist season. With a car, you can effortlessly explore everything from the iconic Red Beach to the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, making it a highly recommended option for those looking to make the most of their Santorini adventure. Bus Travel offers a variety of vehicles, from small economy cars to luxury SUVs if you wish to explore for yourself all the well known or hidden treasure places of Santorini! 

Getting around Santorini by Moto & ATV

For those seeking a more adventurous and lively way to get around Santorini, renting a motorcycle or ATV is an excellent choice. These vehicles allow you to navigate the island’s narrow, winding streets and reach remote areas that larger vehicles might struggle with. With an ATV or moto, you can easily avoid traffic, find parking in crowded spots, and enjoy the thrill of riding with the wind in your hair. They are especially popular for exploring less accessible beaches and hidden spots, offering a sense of freedom and excitement. Just remember to wear a helmet and drive safely, as the roads can be steep and challenging in some areas. With a moto or ATV, the journey becomes just as thrilling as the destination itself!

Getting around Santorini on an organized bus tour

Opting for an organized bus tour is a fantastic way to get around Santorini, especially for first-time visitors. These tours often include pickup and drop-off from selected meeting points all over the island. You can choose a full-day tour, covering major attractions such as the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, the majestic beauty of Oia, and the volcanic landscapes of the caldera. Many bus tours also offer unique experiences like wine tasting at local wineries or free time in Oia village for sunset time. Organized bus tours are the perfect solution for a truly carefree adventure, allowing you to fully appreciate Santorini without any travel worries.

Transfer Services

When it comes to exploring Santorini with comfort, Bus Travel stands out as the best choice for transportation across this breathtaking island. Offering relaxing and unforgettable transfers, Bus Travel ensures your journey through Santorini is as comfortable, convenient, and stress-free as possible. Whether you’re arriving at Santorini International Airport or Athinios Port, Bus Travel’s 24/7 services guarantee a prompt and reliable pickup, ready to whisk you away to your hotel or any destination of your choice. Our fleet of fully air-conditioned and insured vehicles provides a luxurious and relaxed ride, whether you opt for a private car or VIP transfer. Finally, our English-speaking drivers possess an in-depth knowledge of Santorini’s sites and attractions, serving as knowledgeable guides for your exploration!

Therefore, to fully explore the magestic island of Santorini, book your transfer with Bus Travel, the safest and most comfortable option! Moreover, if you are interested in renting a car in Santorini, Bus Travel is the ultimate car rental choice on the island. You can choose the vehicle that best suits your needs from our fleet and explore every corner of the island while embarking on an unforgettable adventure!

How to Travel from Athens to Santorini: Best Scenic Options and Experiences

The fastest travel options from Athens to Santorini are by plane or ferry. Flights take about 45 minutes. High-speed ferries from Piraeus Port take 4.5 to 6 hours. Evaluate cost comparisons and travel duration. Use booking platforms like Ferryhopper for flights and ferries based on your user preferences.

Alternatively, traveling by ferry allows you to see the Aegean Sea. Ferries depart from Piraeus or Rafina ports. The trip lasts between 5 to 8 hours, depending on the ferry type. High-speed ferries are faster but offer less comfort than conventional ferries. Enjoy the breathtaking panoramas of islands and azure waters along the way.

Another option is a combination of bus and ferry. You can take a bus from Athens to a nearby port, like Lavrio, and then catch a ferry to Santorini. This route can be more scenic, providing a glimpse of the countryside.

Regardless of your choice, ensure you book in advance, especially in peak season. Traveling to Santorini can set the stage for unique experiences, such as exploring its volcanic beaches, enjoying local cuisine, and discovering ancient ruins. In the next section, we will delve into the best experiences to embrace on this enchanting island.

Table of Contents

What Are the Best Transportation Options for Traveling from Athens to Santorini?

The best transportation options for traveling from Athens to Santorini include taking a flight, a ferry, or a private yacht.

• Private Yacht

These options differ in duration, cost, and experience. Flights are the quickest but may be more expensive. Ferries provide a scenic journey but take longer. Private yachts offer a luxurious, personalized travel experience but come at a higher cost.

Flight : Taking a flight from Athens to Santorini is the fastest option. Flights typically take about 45 minutes. Various airlines operate direct routes, with prices varying depending on the season and how far in advance tickets are purchased. The convenience of flying may appeal to those short on time. However, it requires transfers to and from airports, which can add to travel time.

Ferry : Traveling by ferry is a popular choice for many tourists. The journey can take anywhere from 5 to 8 hours, depending on the type of ferry. High-speed ferries are available, but traditional ferries offer a more leisurely experience. The views of the Aegean Sea make this option attractive. Ferries typically have a lower cost than flights and can accommodate vehicles if travelers wish to explore Santorini on their own.

Private Yacht : Arranging a private yacht provides a unique experience. Travelers can enjoy the picturesque islands and sea at their own pace. The journey duration can vary based on the itinerary planned. Private yacht charters ensure luxury and exclusivity, making it an appealing option for special occasions. However, this choice is usually the most expensive and may require advanced booking.

Each transportation option presents distinct advantages and considerations. Travelers should evaluate their preferences and budget to select the best fit for their journey from Athens to Santorini.

How Can You Travel by Ferry from Athens to Santorini?

To travel by ferry from Athens to Santorini, you will need to book tickets, choose a ferry operator, and board at the designated port.

Booking tickets: You can purchase ferry tickets online or at travel agencies in Athens. Websites like Ferryhopper and the official websites of ferry operators provide easy booking options. It is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during the peak travel season, which runs from May to October.

Choosing a ferry operator: Several companies operate ferries on this route, including Blue Star Ferries, Hellenic Seaways, and SeaJets. Each offers different types of vessels, such as high-speed ferries or traditional ferries. High-speed ferries typically take about 5 to 6 hours, while traditional ferries may take around 8 hours. The choice depends on your budget and time preferences.

Boarding at the designated port: Ferries to Santorini depart from the port of Piraeus in Athens. To reach Piraeus, you can take the metro, a bus, or a taxi. The port is well-signposted. Make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to check in and board.

Enjoying the ferry ride: The ferry journey from Athens to Santorini offers beautiful views of the Aegean Sea and nearby islands. You can relax on the deck, enjoy snacks from the onboard café, and take photographs.

By following these steps, you can efficiently plan your ferry travel from Athens to Santorini.

What Flight Options Are Available from Athens to Santorini?

Several flight options are available from Athens to Santorini, mainly operated by various airlines, offering flexibility in travel schedules.

• Major Airlines
• Low-Cost Airlines
• Direct Flights
• Connecting Flights
• Seasonal Variations

These options provide travelers with different perspectives based on budget, travel time, and travel preferences.

Major Airlines : Major airlines such as Aegean Airlines and Olympic Air operate frequent flights from Athens to Santorini. These airlines are known for their reliability and comfort. Aegean Airlines offers several daily flights. According to data from the airlines, flight duration is approximately 45 minutes.

Low-Cost Airlines : Low-cost airlines, including Ryanair and EasyJet, also serve this route. They typically offer more affordable rates but may include additional fees for baggage. Budget travelers often choose these airlines to save money.

Direct Flights : Direct flights are the most common option. They provide the quickest way to reach Santorini, especially for those with limited travel time. Passengers usually appreciate the convenience of non-stop service, which eliminates layovers.

Connecting Flights : Connecting flights are less common for this route, but travelers may encounter these if booked via international carriers. These flights have longer travel times and could appeal to those combining travel with another destination.

Seasonal Variations : Seasonal variations impact flight frequency and availability. During the peak summer months, more flights are added to accommodate increased tourist traffic. In contrast, winter may see reduced schedules.

Travelers should consider these options based on their preferences for cost, convenience, and travel time.

What Is the Travel Time for Each Transportation Option?

Travel time for each transportation option refers to the duration required to reach a destination using various means of transport, such as air, road, or water. This time can vary significantly based on factors like distance, speed, and conditions affecting each mode of transport.

The U.S. Department of Transportation provides comprehensive guidelines on travel time evaluations. They report that understanding these times is essential for efficient planning and optimization of travel routes.

Travel time primarily involves understanding the speed of transportation, distance to the destination, and potential delays. For instance, air travel is typically the fastest option for long distances, while train or bus services may be slower but provide additional flexibility.

The World Bank defines travel time as a key indicator of transportation system performance. They emphasize its importance in economic planning and social accessibility, contributing to regional development and connectivity.

Factors influencing travel time include traffic congestion, weather conditions, and the efficiency of the transport system. High volumes of vehicles on the road can significantly delay travel times, especially during peak hours.

Statistics from the Federal Highway Administration indicate that Americans spent an average of 54 hours stuck in traffic in 2019. Projections suggest this may increase with population growth and urbanization trends.

Travel time impacts productivity and mental well-being due to long commutes. Increased travel times can lead to frustration and reduced quality of life for commuters.

Dimensions of impact include health, as prolonged travel may lead to increased stress, environmental strain due to fuel consumption, and economic costs related to lost productivity.

For example, cities with long average commute times, like Los Angeles, experience higher pollution levels and health issues among their residents.

To address travel time issues, organizations like the American Public Transportation Association recommend investing in public transportation infrastructure and promoting remote working options.

Technologies such as real-time traffic monitoring apps, efficient route planning, and the use of electric vehicles can help mitigate travel time challenges. Additionally, smart traffic management systems can optimize traffic flow and reduce congestion.

What Scenic Experiences Can You Enjoy While Traveling from Athens to Santorini?

Traveling from Athens to Santorini offers a range of scenic experiences. Passengers can enjoy breathtaking views, picturesque islands, and vibrant coastal landscapes.

• Scenic Ferry Ride
• Aegean Sea Landscapes
• Island Hopping Options
• Sightseeing in Cyclades
• Sunset Views in Oia

The transition from Aegean Sea Landscapes to Island Hopping Options offers travelers additional adventures during their journey.

Scenic Ferry Ride: A scenic ferry ride from Athens to Santorini provides a unique vantage point of the Aegean Sea. This journey typically takes about 5 to 8 hours, depending on the ferry type. Passengers can witness the calming blue waters alongside beautiful small islands. The ferry often makes brief stops at locations like Mykonos, allowing travelers to soak in the stunning coastal views.

Aegean Sea Landscapes: The Aegean Sea showcases picturesque landscapes during travel. Clear blue waters and charming islands enhance the experience. The contrast between the deep blue sea and white-washed buildings makes for spectacular photographs. Research by the European Environment Agency (EEA, 2020) indicates the Aegean region is rich in biodiversity, contributing to its visual appeal.

Island Hopping Options: Island hopping promotes exploration of other Cycladic islands en route to Santorini. Visitors can choose to stop at places like Naxos or Paros, gaining first-hand experience of local culture and cuisine. This aspect reflects the desire of travelers for immersive experiences. According to a study by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO, 2021), over 30% of tourists favor multiple destinations within a single trip.

Sightseeing in Cyclades: The Cyclades islands offer incredible sightseeing opportunities. Travelers can explore ancient ruins, visit local markets, and enjoy traditional Greek architecture. Each island features unique cultural attractions. For example, Delos is known for its archaeological significance. The Greek Ministry of Culture emphasizes the importance of these historical sites for understanding Greece’s rich heritage.

Sunset Views in Oia: Sunset views in Oia, Santorini are renowned worldwide. The iconic sunset creates a picturesque setting with vibrant colors over the caldera. Travelers gather at various viewpoints to witness this natural spectacle. National Geographic (2022) highlights Oia as one of the best sunset locations globally, drawing numerous visitors each year.

Which Islands Should You Look Out for on the Ferry Route?

The islands to look out for on the ferry route generally include popular destinations in a region, such as the Aegean or Adriatic seas.

Various perspectives may highlight differing preferences for each island based on travel goals, such as relaxation, nightlife, historical exploration, or natural beauty.

The choice of islands on the ferry route reflects diverse interests. Ferry routes can vary by season and availability, impacting the choice of islands as well.

Santorini : Santorini ranks among the most famous islands in Greece. It is known for its stunning sunsets and whitewashed houses. Tourists often visit its archaeological sites, such as Akrotiri. According to the Greek National Tourism Organization, Santorini attracts about 2 million visitors annually. This popularity can lead to crowding during peak season.

Mykonos : Mykonos is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and beach parties. The island features numerous bars and clubs. Persons seeking a lively atmosphere often prefer Mykonos over quieter islands. Moreover, it is a hub for luxury tourism, drawing high-profile visitors. Mykonos is frequently discussed in travel forums for its blend of culture and entertainment.

Crete : Crete is the largest Greek island. It boasts diverse landscapes, from mountains to beaches. Visitors appreciate Crete’s rich history, including the Palace of Knossos. The island is also famous for its local cuisine. According to the Crete Tourism Board, it receives around 4 million visitors yearly. This variety can cater to different travel interests, from history to gastronomy.

Naxos : Naxos is known for its agriculture and soft sandy beaches. Visitors appreciate its less commercial appeal compared to Santorini and Mykonos. The island has significant historical sites, including the Temple of Apollo. It is popular among families and those seeking tranquility.

Rhodes : Rhodes is both a summer and winter destination. It is known for its historical significance as the site of the Colossus of Rhodes. The island features a mix of natural beauty and ancient architecture. Many travelers choose Rhodes for its cultural experiences and extensive tourist facilities.

Capri : Capri, located in the Bay of Naples, is famous for its dramatic cliffs and upscale shopping. The island attracts visitors looking for luxury and beautiful scenery. Attractions like the Blue Grotto highlight its natural beauty. However, it can be expensive compared to other destinations.

Sardinia : Sardinia is recognized for its unique landscapes and beaches. Its rugged coastline attracts nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Sardinia hosts cultural festivals and events that showcase local traditions. This island may appeal to those seeking an authentic Italian experience.

Hvar : Hvar, a Croatian island, combines historical charm with nightlife. It offers beautiful beaches and lavender fields. As one of the sunniest places in Europe, Hvar attracts sun seekers. Visitors often discuss its mix of luxury and natural beauty.

Malta : Malta is rich in history and culture, boasting numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The archipelago offers a mix of relaxation and exploration. Visitors can enjoy beaches, historical forts, and vibrant nightlife, providing varied travel experiences. It is often noted for its unique blend of influences from various cultures.

Corfu : Corfu is known for its lush landscapes and Venetian architecture. Visitors enjoy its beaches and historical sites like Achilleion Palace. The island’s multicultural heritage appeals to many. Corfu is often cited for its relaxed atmosphere compared to other more tourist-heavy destinations.

These islands provide a range of experiences for travelers, with each offering unique attractions and cultural elements to explore.

How Can You Capture Stunning Sunset Views During Your Journey?

To capture stunning sunset views during your journey, focus on timing, location, equipment, and technique. These elements collectively enhance your ability to photograph beautiful sunsets.

Timing: Timing is crucial for sunset photography. Arriving early allows you to set up your equipment and find the perfect angle, as the light changes rapidly before and during sunset. “The golden hour,” a period shortly before sunset, features softer light ideal for photography. According to photographer Daniel Lezano (2022), capturing images during this time can dramatically improve color vibrancy and contrast.

Location: Choose locations with unobstructed views of the horizon. Coastal areas, mountain tops, and open fields provide excellent vantage points. Researching local spots in advance can enhance your experience. Websites like AllTrails and local travel blogs often list prime sunset locations, helping you plan.

Equipment: Use a quality camera or smartphone with a good camera feature. A tripod stabilizes your shots, reducing blurriness in low light. Adjusting settings manually allows you to capture details and colors effectively. For instance, lowering the ISO setting minimizes noise, while optimizing the aperture can enhance depth of field.

Technique: Experiment with different angles and compositions. Incorporating foreground elements, such as trees or rocks, adds depth to your images. Try shooting silhouettes against the sunset to create drama. Additionally, using the rule of thirds—placing the horizon one-third from the top or bottom of the frame—can create a more balanced composition.

By prioritizing these aspects, you can significantly increase the likelihood of capturing stunning sunset views during your travels.

What Should You Know When Planning Your Trip from Athens to Santorini?

When planning your trip from Athens to Santorini, it is important to consider transportation options, budget constraints, timing, and activities available on the island.

• Transportation options
• Budget considerations
• Best time to travel
• Accommodation choices
• Activities and attractions

To enhance your understanding, let’s delve into each of these aspects in detail.

Transportation Options : Transportation options are crucial when planning your trip from Athens to Santorini. You can choose between flying or taking a ferry. Flights from Athens to Santorini typically take about 45 minutes, while ferries offer scenic views and take between 5 to 8 hours depending on the type. Ferries operate from Piraeus or Rafina ports.

Budget Considerations : Budget considerations are essential for effective trip planning. Flights can vary in cost depending on the season, with prices ranging from €40 to €200. Ferries are often cheaper, ranging from €30 to €100. Additionally, factor in accommodation, food, and activity costs to get a comprehensive view of your total expenses.

Best Time to Travel : The best time to travel from Athens to Santorini varies based on personal preference. The peak tourist season is during June to August when the weather is warm, but the islands can be crowded. Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) offer milder weather and fewer crowds, making them favorable for some travelers.

Accommodation Choices : Accommodation choices play a significant role in your overall experience. Santorini offers a variety of options, including luxury hotels, budget hostels, and vacation rentals. Popular areas to stay include Fira and Oia, both known for their stunning views. Prices can range from €50 per night in hostels to several hundred euros in high-end hotels.

Activities and Attractions : Activities and attractions provide the highlights of your trip. Visiting the iconic sunset in Oia, exploring ancient ruins, and relaxing on unique beaches are just a few of the options available. Wine tasting tours and boat trips around the island can enhance your experience, offering a chance to explore Santorini’s renowned local wines and beauty.

By considering transportation, budget, timing, accommodations, and activities, you can plan a successful trip from Athens to Santorini.

What Are the Best Seasons for Traveling from Athens to Santorini?

The best seasons for traveling from Athens to Santorini are spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October).

• Spring Season (April to June)
• Early Fall Season (September to October)
• Summer Season (July to August)
• Winter Season (November to March)

Traveling from Athens to Santorini during spring and early fall is generally recommended due to pleasant weather and fewer crowds. However, some travelers prefer summer for lively experiences, while others might find winter appealing for quieter visits.

Spring Season (April to June) : The spring season from April to June offers mild weather and blooming landscapes. The average temperature ranges between 18-25°C. This period attracts fewer tourists compared to summer, allowing for a more intimate experience of the island. According to Visit Greece, spring is ideal for sightseeing, hiking, and enjoying local festivals, such as Easter celebrations.

Early Fall Season (September to October) : The early fall season , from September to October, is another excellent time for travel. The weather remains warm, averaging 20-26°C, and the summer crowds begin to dissipate. This season provides opportunities to enjoy local harvests and wine festivals. A study by the European Travel Commission in 2022 showed that early fall travelers tend to enjoy better pricing and accommodation availability.

Summer Season (July to August) : The summer season spans July to August and is characterized by high temperatures, often exceeding 30°C. This period is the peak tourist season, resulting in crowded attractions and higher prices. While summer offers vibrant nightlife and numerous events, the heat and congestion might deter some visitors. Sardinia Travel noted that travelers should book accommodations well in advance during this season.

Winter Season (November to March) : The winter season from November to March sees cooler temperatures averaging 10-15°C. Some services, attractions, and ferries may operate on limited schedules. While winter brings a peaceful ambiance, the lack of tourist activities and colder weather can make it less appealing for travelers seeking a traditional Santorini experience.

In summary, the choice of season affects the experience of traveling from Athens to Santorini. Spring and early fall are favored for their temperate climate and reduced crowds. Summer is lively but crowded, while winter offers solitude but limited activities.

How Can You Save Money on Your Trip from Athens to Santorini?

To save money on your trip from Athens to Santorini, consider using budget transport options, booking in advance, traveling off-peak, comparing accommodations, and taking advantage of local dining.

Using budget transport options can significantly reduce your expenses. Ferries often provide a cheaper alternative to flying. For instance, a ferry ride can cost between €35 to €70, while flights may exceed €100. Booking in advance helps you secure lower prices. Booking tickets for ferries or flights at least a few weeks prior can result in up to 30% savings.

Traveling off-peak can also help cut costs. Avoid visiting during peak tourist seasons, such as July and August, when prices soar. Prices for accommodations can drop by 20-50% during shoulder months like May or September.

Comparing accommodations is essential. Use platforms like Booking.com or Airbnb to find budget-friendly hotels and apartments. Prices for the same property can vary greatly, so it is wise to shop around. For example, a hotel room may range from €50 to €200 depending on the booking source.

Taking advantage of local dining options can save you money. Choose local tavernas and street food instead of tourist restaurants. Meals at local eateries may cost around €10 to €20, while tourist spots can charge up to €50 for similar dishes.

By utilizing these strategies, you can enjoy a memorable and budget-friendly trip to Santorini.

What Essential Travel Tips Should You Follow for a Smooth Journey?

To ensure a smooth journey, follow these essential travel tips.

• Stay Informed
• Pack Wisely
• Keep Documents Ready
• Arrive Early
• Stay Flexible

Transitioning into detailed explanations, each tip provides foundational strategies for successful travel preparation.

Plan Ahead : Planning ahead actively contributes to a smooth journey. Research your destination, understand local customs, and create a timeline. A well-structured itinerary minimizes last-minute stress and increases enjoyment. According to the U.S. Travel Association, travelers who plan their trips in advance report 20% higher satisfaction rates.

Stay Informed : Staying informed about your travel details actively aids in smooth travel. Monitor flight statuses, check for weather updates, and be aware of local COVID-19 regulations. Engaging with travel forums or apps like TripIt can keep you updated with real-time alerts, leading to better preparedness.

Pack Wisely : Packing wisely influences your travel experience. Make a checklist to ensure you have essentials and consider packing light to ease mobility. The International Backpackers’ Network recommends limiting luggage to one carry-on to reduce transport complications and promote convenience.

Keep Documents Ready : Keeping your documents ready simplifies travel processes. Organize your passport, boarding passes, and travel insurance in a designated folder for easy access. According to a 2022 study by the Global Business Travel Association, travelers who have their documents organized report 30% less stress overall during their trips.

Arrive Early : Arriving early is crucial for a stress-free journey. Airport guidelines typically recommend arriving at least two hours before international flights. This buffer helps accommodate potential delays and allows for ample time to navigate check-in, security, and boarding. Experts recommend using the extra time to relax or explore airport amenities.

Stay Flexible : Staying flexible during your journey positively impacts your overall experience. Unexpected delays or changes may arise, and a flexible mindset helps manage these situations calmly. For instance, a 2021 survey by Travel Leaders Group indicated that travelers who exhibited flexibility reported greater levels of satisfaction, even amidst disruptions.

What Should You Pack for Your Travel from Athens to Santorini?

To travel from Athens to Santorini, pack essentials for comfort, weather, activities, and local customs.

• Clothing suitable for warm weather
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Personal hygiene items
• Camera or smartphone
• Travel documents (ID, tickets, etc.)
• Snacks for the journey
• Basic medications

Understanding the essential items to pack can enhance your travel experience. With that in mind, here are detailed explanations for each item on the list.

Clothing suitable for warm weather : Packing clothing designed for warm weather ensures comfort while exploring Santorini’s stunning landscapes. The average temperature in Santorini during the summer months typically reaches around 30°C (86°F). Lightweight, breathable materials are ideal.

Swimwear : Santorini boasts beautiful beaches with inviting waters. Swimwear is essential for enjoying a day at the beach or taking a dip in the Aegean Sea. The island’s popular beaches include Red Beach and Kamari Beach, attracting many visitors.

Comfortable walking shoes : Cobbled streets and uneven paths characterize many areas in Santorini. Comfortable walking shoes prevent discomfort and injuries during exploration. Sneakers or sturdy sandals are common choices.

Sunscreen : Strong UV rays are prevalent in Santorini, making sunscreen necessary to protect your skin from sunburn. An SPF of 30 or higher is typically recommended. Dermatologists emphasize the importance of reapplying sunscreen every two hours, especially during peak sun exposure hours.

Sunglasses : Sunglasses protect your eyes from harmful UV rays while providing comfort in bright sunlight. Polarized sunglasses minimize glare, making them a popular choice among travelers.

Personal hygiene items : Personal hygiene items, such as toothpaste, deodorant, and wet wipes, help maintain comfort during travel. Many travelers prefer bringing travel-sized containers to save space and adhere to airline regulations.

Camera or smartphone : Capturing memories is vital for any trip. A camera or smartphone enables travelers to photograph Santorini’s picturesque views, famous sunsets, and historic sites. Images of the iconic blue-domed churches are particularly popular.

Travel documents (ID, tickets, etc.) : Essential travel documents include identification, travel tickets, and health insurance information. It is advisable to keep these documents organized and readily accessible during travel.

Snacks for the journey : Having snacks on hand keeps energy levels up during travel. Easy-to-carry options like nuts, dried fruits, or protein bars are convenient and nutritious choices.

Basic medications : Basic medications, such as pain relievers or allergy medications, address minor health issues that may arise during your trip. Having a small travel first-aid kit can be beneficial for any unexpected situation.

Packing wisely enhances your travel experience from Athens to Santorini, allowing you to enjoy the beauty and culture of this stunning island.

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Visitors to Santorini to be hit with $33 tourist tax as Europe reaches 'breaking point' in its battle to contain over tourism: 'This is insane'

A European island famous for its sun swept vistas is fighting back against the surge of overseas tourists during the peak summer months. 

Greece was chockers last week. I know, because I was one of the 10,000 tourists who stepped ashore on Instagram Island, the place I previously remembered as Santorini.

There we jostled elbow to elbow with narcissistic young influencers for the best vantage points to photograph the island’s fabled, blue-domed churches, and the white-washed houses hugging the cliff face.

The crowds were suffocating, the views breathtaking.

Days earlier I was one of the 20,000 lucky enough to get tickets to the Acropolis in Athens which may be the most remarkable manmade tourist attraction there is.

I say “lucky” because the Greek government has for safety reasons capped the number of tourists allowed to enter the towering relic on any given day.

A tip: Friends urged me to pay a bit extra to join Athens Walking Tours and request the first guided tour of the day starting at 8am. We were among the first 50 through the gates, beating the crowds and the heat.

When our tour was over it was difficult to get out with thousands charging through the entry gates.

“Overtourism” is the catch cry across Europe with tourists in their tens of thousands and millions swamping popular cities and upsetting many locals.

Locals say mass tourism is wrecking their culture and their lives.

In Barcelona locals are squirting tourists with water pistols and telling them to go home.

Amsterdam has started a “Stay Away” campaign with a surge in Airbnb rentals blamed for spiralling rents.

Europe has so many queues and so many crowds that you don’t have to be Nostradamus to see its tourism is close to breaking point.

On this trip I also visited the medieval Croatian port city of Dubrovnik overlooking the Adriatic and boasting one of the world’s most magnificent walled cities with ancient castles and baroque churches.

Recent visitors have included Kate Winslet, John Malkovitch and David and Victoria Beckham.

‘Kings Landing’ featured in the Game of Thrones blockbuster is located in Dubrovnik. It might be one of the reasons it is a rising star in the global tourism firmament.

During a walk through the pedestrian-only ‘Old Town’, my guide Marco Novak pointed out the steep Jesuit Steps where the naked Cersei performed her notorious “Walk of Shame”.

Around every corner, in every alleyway and inside every church we bumped into yet another guided tour group of say 20 or 30 people put down by a shuttle bus from the cruise liners.

More walks of shame?

Marko Novak was irritated.

“They are turning us into Disneyland. This is insane,” he said.

Meanwhile, back to the Greek Islands in my visit to Santorini I was on a shore excursion from my cruise liner, a splendid ship.

In an urgent letter the night before, we were warned by the excursions director that we would be among 10,000 visiting the island because there were four large cruise ships and several smaller vessels in the port.

Viking Sea arranged a tender service to get us ashore, warning us that the cable car ride would take two and a half hours each way because of the queues.

Around 3.5 million tourists visit Santorini each year.

A total of 1.3 million arrived on cruise ships in 2023.

How things have changed for those of us who first ventured to Europe in the 1970s with a copy of Arthur Frommer’s ‘Europe On $10 A Day’ in our kitbags.

Greece this week announced plans to impose a levy of €20 ($33 AUD) on cruise ship visitors to Santorini and the other popular island Mykonos during the peak summer season.

The tax was announced by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis who said excessive tourism was only a problem in a few destinations.

And he is right.

There are hundreds of islands with no crowding at all.

“Greece does not have a structural over-tourism problem ... Some of its destinations have a significant issue during certain weeks or months of the year, which we need to deal with,” the PM said.

“Cruise shipping has burdened Santorini and Mykonos and this is why we are proceeding with interventions.”

Greek tourism revenues topped €20 billion in 2023 on the back of 31 million tourist arrivals.

Mr Mitsotakis said his government also plans to regulate the number of cruise ships that arrive simultaneously at certain destinations, with rules to protect the environment and tackle water shortages.

He added Greece wants to increase a tax on short-term rentals and ban new licenses for such rentals in central Athens to increase the housing stock for permanent residents.

Earlier this year Venice launched a €5 ($8 AUD) tourist tax for day-trippers which has had no impact at all. Venice gets 20 million tourists a year.

Amsterdam drew 23 million visitors last year and wants to cap numbers.

Cruise ships are now barred from docking in the city centre and new hotel construction has been outlawed.

Spain attracts more than 42 million tourists a year and is struggling to contain crowds.

Des travelled independently paying his own airline and cruise ship fares.

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Getting to and from Samara

Train Station. The Samara train station is a real surprise - modern and well-equipped. It has everything you need including many lockers and left luggage facilities, a currency exchange, ATMs and a great transit lounge where you can even spend the night.

Additionally it features quite a classy hotel. From Moscow the best train to take is the direct link between the two cities, train 010 which takes just under 16 hours and costs about 750R ($28) 3rd class, 2000R ($74) 2nd class and 3900R ($145) 1st class. The 056 is a slightly lower quality direct link. Although it takes 18 hours, it is a bit cheaper at around 500R ($18) 3rd class and 1300R ($48) 2nd class. The respective return trains are numbered 009 and 055. The trains from Moscow that continue on to places like Tashkent, Ufa and Magnitgorsk are often a little bit cheaper but are slower and not as nice. The exception perhaps is the 014 Moscow-Chelyabinsk which takes 16 hours 42 minutes and costs about the same as the 010. Train 337 runs from St Petersburg to Samara, takes just over 41 hours and costs about 900R ($33) 3rd class and 2500R ($93) 2nd class. Other destinations that are easy to reach from Samara include Kazan, Volgograd, Saratov, Ekaterinburg, Ufa, Chelyabinsk and Tashkent. Address: Komsomolskaya Ploshchad, #1. Tel: 333-3001.

Bus Station. Buses are the cheapest (and nastiest) way of getting to and from Samara. Anyone interested in terrible, long-haul international bus journeys can travel from Samara to Tbilisi (12pm Monday), which takes 49 hours and costs 1625R ($60) or Baku (4pm, Wednesday and Sunday) which takes 48 hours and costs 1065R ($40). More manageable destinations include Kazan (daily, around 9am) which takes 7 hours 15 minutes and costs 410R ($15), Saratov (9am and 12pm daily) which takes 10 hours and costs 410R ($15) and Ioshkar-Ola (6pm daily, 11 hours, $17). For fans of Soviet history, Samara is a good place from which to take the five and a half hour journey to Ulyanovsk, birthplace of Lenin. There is at least one bus per hour to Ulyanovsk between 7:00am and 8:00pm (216R - $8). Tolyatti is also easily accessible from Samara, just over two hours away, with the same frequency of bus departures as for Ulyanovsk (100R - $3.70). The bus station also services the small towns surrounding Samara and around Samarskaya Oblast. See www.samaratrans.info for updated bus schedules. Address: Avrory Ul., #207a. Tel: 224-2555.

Samara "Kurumoch" Airport. Getting to and from the airport by public transport is a bit of a headache. The best way to do it is to take bus #50 from the train station or Samarskaya Ploshchad and stay on this bus until it terminates at Krasnaya Glinka. Then change to bus #78 until you reach the airport. The standard rate for a taxi to the airport is 600R ($22), and 800R ($30) to be met at the airport.

Samara's airport is fairly simple but does have a business lounge and other basic amenities. There are upwards of ten daily flights between Moscow and Samara. Airlines that service Samara include Aeroflot, Samara Airlines, Arkhengelsk Airlines, Siberia Airlines and Utair. Samara Airlines is generally the cheapest with flights starting at about $90 one way or $150 return. The flight takes about 90 minutes. There are usually two daily flights between Samara and St Petersburg (about 2 hours 20 minutes). Additionally, there are flights most days to Ekaterinburg and Kazan, and a whole host of other cities are serviced on a less regular basis.

The only European destinations available for direct flights from Samara are Frankfurt and Prague. Lufthanza runs daily flights to Samara from Frankfurt (about four hours) while Czech Airlines has three flights a week in each direction between Samara and Prague (about 3 and a half hours). Central Asian and Caucasian locations including Almaty, Tashkent, Baku and Tbilisi are also serviced directly. Full flight schedules can be found on the Samara Airport's website: www.siair.ru . Address: Tel: 229-5555.

Getting around Samara.

Samara's city center is small enough to walk between most places of interest. But you will need to take public transport to get from the train and bus stations to the central tourist area (although walking is possible from the train station) and to make reaching the east side of town easier. Buses, trams, trolleybuses and taxi vans are the cheapest and most efficient modes of transport but there is also a small metro and taxis are fairly cheap.

Samara Metro. The metro currently has only eight stops and is of very limited use for tourists. There are no stations in the city center or near the train station - the single line services only the south-east of the city. But there are plans to extend the current line to the center and the train station and to add a second line with some more useful locations. You can see the Samara Metro Scheme here, though you'll probably have no reason to use it. www.samaratrans.info/metro/shema.doc

Buses, Trolleybuses, Trams, Marshrutkas (Taxi Vans). Tram #1 runs from the bus station to the center via the train station and is the easiest form of transport to use between these destinations. Bus #22 and #52 connect the train and bus stations, while bus #24 runs from the bus station to Ploshchad Revolutsii in the city center. Trolleybus #16 connects the bus station and the center, as does #3 but it takes a more eastern route to get there.

Getting to and from the airport by public transport is a bit of a headache. The best way to do it is to take bus #50 from the train station or Samarskaya Ploshchad and stay on this bus until it terminates at Krasnaya Glinka. Then change to bus #78 until you reach the airport.

Around Samara some useful routes are Trolleybus #11 which runs from the train station to the eastern part of the center along Volzhsky Prospekt where there are several hotels and places of interest. Tram #5 starts at the western part of the center and run east along Ulitsa Frunze, Galaktionovskaya Ulitsa, Prospekt Lenina and Novo-Sadovaya Ulitsa all the way out to the Renaissance Hotel. Bus #46 takes a similar route from the central Ploshchad Revolutsii.

Additionally there are any number of taxi vans covering various routes. Tickets on all forms of public transport cost 9R ($0.33) and can be bought on board from a person who come around selling them. The following website has maps of all Samara's public transport routes: www.samaratrans.info .

Taxis and Car Rental. In Samara you can hail any car as a taxi but it's not as easy as in Moscow. By this method you can get anywhere worth going in the greater central area for a maximum of 100 R ($3.70). Some legitimate taxi companies (operators speak Russian only) include Samara Taxi ( Tel: 959-4638, Website: www.samarataxi.ru ), Taxi Blues ( Tel: 234-3343, Website: www.taxi-blues.samara.ru ), Krylya Taxi ( Tel: 273-0730, Website: www.taxikrilya.ru ) and Voyage Taxi ( Tel: 224-2424, Wesbite: www.taxivoyage.ru ).

Renting a car is a good way to explore the greater Samara area. Both Hertz and Europcar have outlets in Ekaterinburg (prices start at about $75 per day) but the local companies are considerably cheaper (prices start at $37 a day). Hertz: Novosadovaya Ul., #162b Tel: 277-8383. Europcar: Michurina Ul., #80, Office 23. Tel: 338-7017. Kolesa Rent-A-Car: Bratyev Korostelevykh Ul., #268, Office 40. Tel: 273-2828. Auto Rental: Fizkulturnaya Ul., #90. Tel: 926-3710. Website: www.auto-rental.ru .

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