Essential Information About Transport in Santorini

While the numerous hills and volcanic trails will challenge your leg muscles, getting around Santorini is quite manageable. Being a small island means short travel times and plenty of options to explore.

A robust bus system operates during the tourist season with regular service and low fares, while taxis remain fairly economical. If you prefer your own mode of transport, motorbikes and cars can be rented, though prices spike during peak season. And good luck finding parking in July and August.

Several public boats connect to nearby islands, or you can catch an inexpensive ride on a small boat (caïque) that offers scenic trips along the beaches. Additionally, a cable car operates in the main town of Fira. Start planning the amazing activities you want to enjoy upon your arrival, as we have all the information you need to access them.

The bus is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers

Santorini boasts an extensive bus network operated by the national collective KTEL. Buses run throughout the day, allowing you to reach most key destinations on the island, including the airport, for around €2 (fares may vary slightly based on distance). Services are reasonably regular; for instance, the route from the main town of Fira to the beach town of Kamari has buses every 30 minutes during the day, with the last ones running late into the evening. Travel times are generally short.

Surprisingly, given the island's short travel times, the buses resemble those used for long-distance routes, featuring narrow doors. This adds to the congestion during summer when the demand far exceeds the number of available seats, leading to longer waits.

Buses are available to meet all ferries arriving at the port of Athinios, but service down to the port can be irregular, so it’s wise to check the schedule before your sailing.

Renting a car offers flexibility, but it can also be stressful

Renting a car in Santorini is easy, whether from a well-known company or one of many local providers. It's best to arrange your rental in advance or be ready to negotiate upon arrival. Renting through your hotel can be convenient, though cars are in high demand during summer, driving prices up along with the temperatures.

While having a car allows you to explore Santorini at your leisure, there are challenges, particularly in summer. The short drives on the island's narrow roads can be daunting, with steep drops and heavy traffic. Parking in Fira and at the beaches can be tricky; leaving your car in unauthorized spots can result in substantial fines.

A smart approach is to rent a car for just a day or two to explore, helping you avoid the associated hassles during other times.

A motorbike is perfect for the island's narrow roads

Renting a motorbike is a smart idea for tackling the steep ascent back to Fira after a relaxing day at the beach. Riding around Santorini on two wheels offers a fantastic alternative to driving a car, making it easier to handle the narrow roads and find parking. It's simple to rent a motorbike or scooter, but keep in mind that non-EU residents must have a motorcycle or motorbike license that is valid in their home country.

Cycling can be quite a challenge

Navigating steep, winding roads and very narrow lanes with numerous blind curves presents significant obstacles for cyclists in Santorini. Combine this with drivers who often speed to make up for lost time in traffic, and the difficulties increase. However, renting a bike is quite accessible, with many options available on the island. Inquire about e-bikes, which are becoming increasingly popular in Santorini, unless you prefer to train for the Tour de France with the many hills.

Take a boat to nearby islands

Boats run several times a week to the picturesque island of Thirassia, located just across from the quaint village of Ammoudi at the northern tip of the main island. The ticket price is €2.10. Service is less frequent from the main port of Athinios, so it’s advisable to check schedules beforehand.

Excursion boats offer trips to the uninhabited volcanic islets in the caldera, often stopping at Thirassia as well. These tours typically start at around €40 and are heavily promoted throughout Santorini. Additionally, you can enjoy day trips to various beaches, providing a scenic escape from the crowds and traffic along the winding hills.

You can hire small boats (caïques) from busier beaches to access smaller, more secluded ones for a reasonable fee.

Taxis offer a comfortable travel option, but the costs can add up quickly

Finding a taxi during the peak season can be challenging, as only about 40-50 cars are available for thousands of visitors. Taxis are typically found at the airport, ferry port, and a taxi stand near the main bus station in Fira. If you're in a group, fares are quite reasonable; for instance, a ride from the Athinios port to the accommodations around Fira costs about €30. Note that extra luggage may incur additional charges.

Most accommodations will arrange to pick you up at the ferry port for around €20 if you book in advance. You can also schedule private transfers to avoid waiting for an available taxi. If you're taking a taxi for a beach day, it's wise to discuss a pickup time with the driver for later in the day.

Bypass the traffic with a ride on the cable car

Much like the Alps, but with stunning views of endless blue waters instead of snowy landscapes, a cable car system swiftly transports passengers up and down the steep mountainside between Fira and the quaint port village of Fira Skala, located about 400m (1300ft) below. During summer, when cruise ships arrive, service is frequent; otherwise, it's less regular. The fare is €6.

Stay active and discover the island on foot

Exploring Santorini by walking feels more like a workout than a leisurely stroll. The steep inclines and absence of proper footpaths present challenges. For instance, the trail from the cruise ship docks at Fira Skala to Fira features over 600 steps. However, the paths connecting popular beaches, especially around Perissa, provide a notable exception.

A favored path, though more of an adventure than a practical option, is the 10km trek (6 miles) from Fira to Oia.

Transportation options for accessibility in Santorini

Transportation that accommodates accessibility is quite scarce in Santorini. Public buses lack wheelchair access, as do taxis. The village walkways are filled with steep stone stairs, and summer crowds can make navigation challenging. Some private tour operators offer wheelchair-friendly vehicles, but it’s crucial to book in advance.