Santorini, a Greek island in the Aegean Sea, is a premier travel destination renowned for its iconic blue-domed churches, stunning caldera views, and charming whitewashed buildings.
For cruisers, the Santorini Cruise Port provides the gateway to exploring this captivating island.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will ensure a seamless experience in port.
Overview of Santorini Cruise Port
The cruise port in Santorini is unique in that there is no actual docking pier for large cruise ships. Instead, ships anchor offshore, and passengers are tendered to shore in small boats.
Santorini has two main ports that serve cruise passengers: Fira (the old port) and Athinios (the new port). However, Fira, the old port, is more commonly used for cruise tenders.
Fira Port: The Old Port
Located at the base of the caldera cliffs, Fira port is the main point of entry for cruise passengers. The port itself is small but offers stunning views of the caldera.
From here, visitors can either take a cable car or walk up to Fira town, the capital of Santorini, perched 400 meters above the port.
The path consists of over 500 steps, which can be challenging for some visitors. Alternatively, you can hire a donkey, though this practice has raised animal welfare concerns.
Athinios Port: The New Port
Athinios port is the island’s commercial port, where ferries and cargo ships dock. It is further south from Fira and is typically used for larger vessels or those staying overnight.
Though not commonly used for tendered passengers, it’s still good to know about in case your cruise uses this port.
Taxis, buses, and rental services are available from Athinios to take you to the main parts of the island.
Disembarking at Santorini Cruise Port
After anchoring offshore, cruise passengers are tendered to Fira port by smaller boats. This can take some time, so it’s recommended to wait patiently for your ship’s tendering announcements.
Some ships may offer priority tender tickets for guests with excursions booked, so check with your cruise line beforehand. Early risers should try to catch the first tenders to make the most of the day.
Tips for Tendering:
- Be aware of tender times and allow yourself extra time for return trips to avoid missing the last tender.
- Prepare for a slight wait, especially during peak cruise season.
- The tender ride can be bumpy depending on the sea conditions, so consider motion sickness remedies if you’re prone to seasickness.
Getting to Fira: Cable Car, Donkeys, or Walking?
Once you arrive at Fira port, you have three main options to get up to the town of Fira.
Cable Car
The cable car is the most popular and efficient way to get to the top. The ride takes about 3 minutes and offers fantastic views of the caldera as you ascend.
Tickets are €6 per person, and the cable cars can carry up to six passengers at a time. Keep in mind that lines for the cable car can get long, especially when multiple ships are in port.
Donkeys
Riding a donkey is another option to reach the top, though it’s become a controversial one. The donkeys climb the winding path that runs parallel to the steps.
While some consider this a traditional way to experience Santorini, animal welfare organizations have raised concerns about the treatment of donkeys. If you do choose this option, be aware of these issues and treat the animals kindly.
Walking
For the adventurous, you can walk up the 588 steps from the port to Fira. The path is steep, winding, and can be slippery, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
The walk offers some great photo opportunities along the way, but it’s physically demanding, particularly in the heat. It can take about 30–45 minutes depending on your pace.
What to Do in Fira
Once you’ve made it to Fira, you’ll find a vibrant town full of shops, restaurants, and panoramic viewpoints.
Whether you’re looking to shop for local crafts, enjoy authentic Greek cuisine, or just take in the stunning views, Fira is a great starting point for your Santorini adventure.
Exploring the Caldera Views
Fira offers some of the most iconic views of the caldera. The narrow streets are lined with whitewashed buildings, and as you wander, you’ll discover plenty of picture-perfect spots.
Don’t miss the chance to capture the incredible views from one of the many cliffside cafes or lookout points.
Shopping
Fira is known for its boutique shops, offering everything from high-end jewelry to locally-made souvenirs.
You can find unique items such as handcrafted pottery, leather sandals, and traditional Greek jewelry. Prices can vary, so it’s worth shopping around if you’re looking for a special keepsake.
Dining
Fira offers a wide range of dining options, from casual tavernas to upscale restaurants. Don’t miss out on trying local specialties like moussaka, souvlaki, and fresh seafood.
Many restaurants have terraces with breathtaking views, making them perfect spots to relax and soak in the island’s beauty.
Popular Excursions from Santorini Cruise Port
Santorini offers a wide variety of excursions for cruisers, from visiting ancient ruins to exploring nearby villages.
Whether you book through your cruise line or independently, there’s something for everyone.
Oia Village
Perhaps the most famous village on Santorini, Oia is known for its stunning sunsets, blue-domed churches, and cliffside views.
Located about 30 minutes from Fira, Oia is a must-visit for any Santorini trip. Many excursions offer guided tours of the village, or you can take a local bus or taxi. Be prepared for large crowds, especially during peak season, but the breathtaking views make it all worth it.
Akrotiri Archaeological Site
For history buffs, the ancient ruins of Akrotiri are a fascinating stop.
Often referred to as the “Greek Pompeii,” Akrotiri was a Minoan Bronze Age settlement that was buried under volcanic ash around 1627 BC.
The site is well-preserved, and visitors can explore the ruins of houses, streets, and even some original frescoes.
Pyrgos Village
If you’re looking for a quieter, more authentic experience, consider a visit to Pyrgos. This traditional village is located inland and offers a more peaceful escape from the busy port areas.
Pyrgos is home to beautiful old churches, a Venetian castle, and charming narrow streets that are perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Wine Tours
Santorini is famous for its wine, particularly the Assyrtiko grape, which thrives in the island’s volcanic soil.
Many tours offer wine tastings at local vineyards, where you can sample Santorini’s unique wines while enjoying spectacular views. A wine tour is a great way to relax and enjoy the island’s agricultural heritage.
Sailing Around the Caldera
For a truly unique experience, consider a sailing excursion around the caldera. Many tour operators offer day trips that include stops at the volcanic islands of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni, where you can hike to the volcanic crater or swim in the hot springs.
Some tours also include a stop at the island of Thirassia, where you can enjoy a traditional Greek meal in a quieter setting.
- Take a cable car to Fira: Ride the cable car from the old port to Fira and enjoy sweeping views of the caldera as you ascend.
- Explore the streets of Fira: Wander through the narrow, winding streets of Fira, lined with shops, cafes, and incredible photo spots.
- Visit the Prehistoric Museum of Thera: Discover ancient artifacts and frescoes from Santorini’s prehistoric era at this fascinating museum.
- Walk the steps from Fira port to Fira town: Climb the 588 steps from the port to the top of the cliffs for a more immersive experience.
- Ride a donkey up to Fira: If you’re feeling adventurous (and understanding of animal welfare issues), you can take a traditional donkey ride up to town.
- Shop for local crafts in Fira: Pick up some unique, handcrafted items such as jewelry, pottery, and leather goods from local artisans.
- Enjoy a meal with caldera views: Dine at one of the many restaurants in Fira that offer breathtaking views of the caldera while enjoying Greek specialties.
- Visit the Archaeological Museum of Thera: Learn about the history of Santorini through artifacts from its ancient past.
- Watch the sunset in Oia: Head to Oia to witness the world-famous Santorini sunset over the Aegean Sea.
- Stroll through Oia’s narrow alleys: Explore the picturesque streets of Oia, known for its whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches.
- Visit the Castle of Oia: Climb to the ruins of the Venetian castle for stunning views of the village and surrounding sea.
- Browse art galleries in Oia: Discover contemporary Greek art and local masterpieces in one of the many galleries.
- Visit the Akrotiri Archaeological Site: Explore the ancient Minoan city that was buried by a volcanic eruption, often compared to Pompeii.
- Swim at the Red Beach: Head to the Red Beach near Akrotiri, known for its striking red cliffs and clear waters.
- Visit the Santorini Wine Museum: Learn about the island’s wine-making history and sample local wines at this unique museum located in a winery.
- Take a boat trip to Nea Kameni: Visit the volcanic island of Nea Kameni and hike up to the active volcanic crater.
- Bathe in the hot springs of Palea Kameni: After visiting Nea Kameni, relax in the warm waters of the nearby hot springs.
- Visit the village of Pyrgos: Wander through Pyrgos, a charming inland village with a Venetian castle and old churches.
- Explore Emporio village: Discover Emporio, a traditional village with medieval architecture and narrow streets full of character.
- Visit the Megalochori village: Another hidden gem, Megalochori is a quiet, traditional village perfect for peaceful exploration.
- Hike from Fira to Oia: Follow the scenic caldera path between Fira and Oia, a popular hike that offers stunning views at every turn.
- Sample Santorini wines on a vineyard tour: Visit a local vineyard, like Santo Wines or Domaine Sigalas, for a tour and wine tasting.
- Explore the black sands of Perissa Beach: Relax on this unique volcanic sand beach on the southeastern coast of the island.
- Swim at Kamari Beach: Enjoy the vibrant seaside town of Kamari, known for its black sand beach and crystal-clear waters.
- Visit the Ancient Thera ruins: Climb up to the ruins of Ancient Thera, an ancient city that offers panoramic views of the island.
- Take a sailing tour around the caldera: Book a catamaran or boat tour around the caldera for a different perspective of Santorini’s coastline.
- Watch a film at the Kamari Open Air Cinema: Enjoy a movie under the stars at this charming outdoor cinema in Kamari.
- Visit the Byzantine Castle ruins in Pyrgos: Explore the remnants of this castle while enjoying panoramic views of the island.
- Take a Santorini photography tour: Join a guided tour to capture the best photo spots across the island, including hidden gems and iconic landmarks.
- Try local Greek specialties at a taverna: Taste traditional dishes like moussaka, fava beans, and fresh seafood at a local taverna.
- Visit the Monastery of Prophet Elias: Located on the highest point of Santorini, this monastery offers incredible views and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Take a cooking class: Learn to cook Greek dishes using local ingredients by taking a cooking class at a Santorini farm or restaurant.
- Visit the Museum of Minerals and Fossils: Located in Perissa, this small museum showcases fascinating minerals and fossils found on the island.
- Watch the sunset at Skaros Rock: Hike to Skaros Rock in Imerovigli for a more secluded and serene sunset experience.
- Go snorkeling or diving: Explore the underwater world around Santorini by snorkeling or diving in the clear Aegean waters.
- Enjoy a wine and food pairing experience: Many local wineries offer pairing experiences where you can sample local delicacies alongside their wines.
- Visit the White Beach: Take a boat ride from the Red Beach to the secluded White Beach, known for its white pebbles and crystal-clear water.
- Discover Santorini’s lighthouses: Visit the Faros Lighthouse near Akrotiri for panoramic views of the southern tip of the island.
- Rent an ATV or scooter: Explore the island at your own pace by renting an ATV or scooter to travel between villages and beaches.
- Relax in a caldera-facing infinity pool: If time allows, find a hotel or day-use facility that offers access to infinity pools with breathtaking views of the caldera.
Transportation Options in Santorini
Santorini has several options for getting around, making it easy to explore the island even if you’re only in port for a short time.
Taxis
Taxis are available at both Fira and Athinios ports, but they can be limited, especially during peak season.
It’s a good idea to negotiate the fare before you start your journey, as meters are not always used. Prices can be higher than expected, so be prepared for some negotiation.
Buses
Santorini’s public bus system is an affordable way to get around the island.
The main bus station is located in Fira, and routes connect Fira with Oia, Akrotiri, and other parts of the island. Buses can get crowded, but they are a budget-friendly option for independent travelers.
Rental Cars and ATVs
If you’re looking for more flexibility, renting a car or ATV is a popular option. Several rental agencies operate near the cruise port, and rates are typically reasonable.
Keep in mind that Santorini’s roads can be narrow and winding, so driving requires caution.
Best Time to Visit Santorini by Cruise
Santorini’s cruise season typically runs from April to November, with the busiest months being July, August, and September.
If you prefer fewer crowds and cooler weather, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of April, May, or October.
The island is less crowded during these months, but you’ll still enjoy pleasant weather and all the main attractions will be open.
Packing Essentials for a Day in Santorini
A day in Santorini can involve a lot of walking, so it’s important to pack appropriately. Here are some essentials to bring with you:
- Comfortable walking shoes: The steep streets and steps can be tough on your feet.
- Sunscreen and a hat: Santorini can get very hot, especially in the summer months.
- Water bottle: Stay hydrated as you explore the island.
- Camera or smartphone: You’ll want to capture the stunning views.
- Cash: While many places accept credit cards, smaller shops and cafes may prefer cash.
Final Thoughts
A visit to Santorini Cruise Port is an unforgettable experience. With its stunning views, rich history, and unique culture, the island offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re exploring the narrow streets of Fira, watching the sunset in Oia, or taking a boat tour around the caldera, your time in Santorini is sure to be filled with lasting memories.
