Ferry from Athens (Piraeus) to Santorini (Athinios)

The Piraeus to Santorini ferry is the main sea connection between Athens and Greece’s most iconic island. It’s one of the busiest crossings in the Aegean, running year-round – though services thin out considerably over winter. Our guides to Piraeus port and Athinios port cover what to expect at both ends of the crossing.

On average, five ferries a day make the crossing throughout the year. In peak summer – June through August – that rises to seven daily departures. In winter, expect around two per day on the days when sailings operate at all.

Piraeus to Santorini Ferry Fares

Weekly Piraeus to Santorini Ferry Schedule

The repeating pattern behind the dated timetable, without dates. Each row is one scheduled departure and the days it runs.

Things to do when you arrive: Best Santorini tours on Viator

Hiring a car

Is it worth hiring a car on Santorini?

Yes. The ferry port at Athinios sits about 7.5km below Fira up a steep, winding road; the bus takes about 25 minutes and a taxi costs many times the fare. A car lets you reach Oia, Akrotiri and the red and black beaches at your own pace without waiting for infrequent buses; rental desks operate near the port, and you can compare prices across local suppliers at Discover Cars.

Can you rent a car in Piraeus?

Yes, several agencies meet passengers directly at the ferry gates (E1 to E12), so there is no need to arrange transport into central Athens first. It suits travellers continuing on to the mainland rather than islanders, since central Athens is only 20 minutes away and has good metro and bus links. Compare local suppliers at Discover Cars.

Next 14 days

Every scheduled departure from Piraeus to Santorini between 4 September 2026 and 17 September 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tips for the Piraeus to Santorini ferry

• The overnight ferry saves hotel costs -- book a cabin for a good night's sleep.
• The early morning high-speed ferry gets you to Santorini by lunchtime.
• Piraeus port is large, with departure gates E1 to E10 spread along the waterfront – allow extra time to find yours, as it can be a 15–20 minute walk from the metro station, and check the gate number printed on your ticket.
• Ferries to the Saronic islands – Aegina, Hydra and the nearby islands – depart from Gate E8, while Cyclades sailings (Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Naxos) leave from gates in the E6–E10 range, so double-check your specific gate on arrival.
• In Santorini, the clifftop villages of Oia and Fira offer the famous caldera views over the submerged volcanic crater, best seen at sunset from Oia's castle. The 214 steps down to Amoudi Bay lead to some of the best seafood tavernas on the island, and local wine tours offer a taste of Assyrtiko, the volcanic-soil white grape unique to the island.

Plan a journey

Search for a connection between any two Greek ports, including journeys that need a change.