29 Apr How to get from the Port
How to Get from the Port of Athinios to Your Hotel in Santorini:
All Your Options & What to Avoid
How to Get from the Port of Athinios to Your Hotel
All Your Options & What to Avoid
So you’ve just arrived at Athinios Port, the main ferry terminal of Santorini — and now you’re wondering:
How do I get from here to my hotel without losing time, money, or patience?
You’re not alone.
Navigating transportation from the port can be surprisingly stressful, especially in peak season. Here’s a breakdown of your options, the common tourist traps to avoid, and why booking a private transfer might just be your smartest move.
Understanding Athinios Port: A Beautiful Mess
Athinios Port is not your average port. It’s nestled between steep cliffs and has a single winding road that leads in and out. It gets extremely busy, especially when multiple ferries arrive at once. Add limited space, few taxis, and a wave of confused travelers, and you’ve got a recipe for chaos.
Option 1: Local Bus – The Cheapest (and Riskiest) Choice
Yes, there is a local bus that runs from the port to Fira, the capital of Santorini. This is the most budget-friendly option — tickets are just a few euros.
- Often overcrowded
- You may have to wait in long lines
- Schedules don’t always match ferry arrivals
- You might wait hours for the next one
- Transfer again if your hotel isn’t in Fira
✔️ Good if: you’re traveling light and have lots of time
❌ Not ideal if: you’re tired, carrying luggage, or with kids
Option 2: Taxi – A Hit or Miss Gamble
There are only a limited number of taxis in Santorini. On a good day, grabbing one at the port can be a quick fix. On a bad day? You’ll be stuck waiting — or worse, no taxis at all.
⚠️ Two major concerns:
- Availability – very few taxis on the island
- Pricing – tourists are often overcharged
TIP: Always ask the price before getting in. Prices can vary wildly — some pay €100+ for short rides.
Option 3: Private Transfers – The Stress-Free, Pre-Booked Solution
If you want to avoid stress and hassle, a pre-arranged private transfer is by far the most comfortable and reliable option.
- ✔️ Your driver is waiting at the port with a sign
- ✔️ No lines or haggling
- ✔️ Air-conditioned luxury vehicles
- ✔️ Transparent pricing, no surprises
- ✔️ Direct drop-off to your hotel
It may not be the cheapest, but it’s the most dependable and convenient solution — especially after a long ferry trip or when traveling with family or luggage.
⚠️ The Tourist Trap to Avoid
If you don’t plan ahead, you might fall into the trap of “unofficial taxi services” offering shared rides at “bargain” prices.
- They advertise €20–€30 per person
- But stories of tourists being charged €100–€200 are common
- No receipts, no guarantees, no clear destinations
It’s not a taxi. It’s a gamble.
Transport Options Comparison Table
| Transport Method | Estimated Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Bus | €2–€3 per person | Very cheap | Overcrowded, limited schedule, indirect |
| Taxi | €35–€50 (can be more) | Direct, convenient if available | Hard to find, unpredictable pricing |
| Private Transfer (Pre-booked) | €45–€70 per vehicle | Stress-free, driver waits for you, luxury vehicles | Not the cheapest |
| “Taxi” at Port (Unofficial) | €20–€30 per person (or up to €200!) | Last resort only | Overpriced, risky, unregulated |
✅ Final Tips
- Don’t assume it’ll be easy — plan ahead
- Ask the price first before taking any taxi
- Use the bus only if you’re on a very tight budget
- Booking a private transfer is the smartest and safest choice
- ⚠️ Avoid “unofficial taxis” or “shared vans” at the port
Don’t Get Stuck at the Port — Book Your Private Transfer Now
At VIP Transfers Santorini, we specialize in pre-arranged, luxury private transfers from Athinios Port to any hotel on the island.
- ✔️ Professional drivers
- ✔️ Air-conditioned, modern vehicles
- ✔️ Clear, upfront pricing
- ✔️ Reliable pickup — no stress, no waiting