Checked offer from Santorini to Piraeus (Athens port): Ferry, about 6h 30min, from €61. Main companies selling this route on 12Go (checked on November 4, 2026): Blue Star Ferries; main departure point: Thira Santorini Port.
One option to get from Santorini to Piraeus (Athens port)
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Companies selling this route on 12Go
Offers listed on 12Go on November 4, 2026 for a departure on November 25, 2026. Timetables and prices change with the date: check them before booking.
| Company | Mode | Departs from | From | Offers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Star Ferries | Ferry | Thira Santorini Port | €61 | 4 |
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Practical tips
In July and August, sailings from Santorini fill up, especially on the most convenient daytime departures. Book as soon as your dates are fixed to keep your preferred time and avoid being left with an awkward late or early sailing.
Athens has three ferry ports: Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio. For Santorin the relevant one here is Piraeus. Check the arrival port on your booking confirmation before paying, so you don't plan your onward trip around the wrong harbour.
Ferries can be delayed by wind or port traffic. If you fly out of Athens the same day, aim for an earlier sailing or, better, spend a night in Athens so a late arrival does not put your flight at risk.
Timetables vary by season and companies may adjust sailings. Look at your confirmation a day or two before travelling, and check the operator's notices in case of strong winds, so you know early if anything has shifted.
Before you board, decide how you will get from the port to your accommodation or station. Piraeus has a metro station and buses, which makes onward travel simple, but late-night arrivals may limit your choices, so plan ahead.
The journey experience
Leaving Santorini for Athens is one of the most common island exits in Greece, and the good news is that you can settle the "ferry, coach, train or flight" question quickly: for this route, the ferry is the option listed here, and it is the one most independent travellers choose. You sail from the island to the mainland, then continue by metro or bus into the capital. The comparison table on this page shows duration and price range at a glance.
The crossing is usually done on a conventional ferry with indoor lounges, outdoor decks, a snack bar and space for luggage, which makes it a comfortable way to travel with a backpack or a suitcase. You can sit inside if the weather is windy or stay on deck for the caldera views as you leave. Several companies operate in the Cyclades, and the type of vessel, the schedule and the fare can differ from one sailing to another, so compare before you book.
Your main concern is probably timetables that change with the season and the risk of choosing the wrong Athens port. Check that your ticket says Piraeus, since Rafina and Lavrio are other Athens ports serving different routes. Book ahead in summer, keep a buffer if you have a flight the same day, and use the page's booking button for instant confirmation.
Frequently asked questions — Santorini → Piraeus (Athens port)
Ferry fares for this route start from €61, and a typical fare is up to €62. The exact price depends on the company, the type of vessel, the season and how early you book. Compare the options on this page and book ahead in summer for the best choice.
The crossing takes about 7 to 8 hours. The exact time depends on the vessel, the sailing and any stops along the way. Weather can also affect it, so keep some flexibility in your plans, especially if you have a flight or train to catch afterwards.
The ferry is the option listed for this route, and it is the practical choice for independent travellers: you can bring luggage, move around the vessel and arrive directly at the port of Athens. Compare sailings in the table above and book online for instant confirmation.
This route is listed as arriving at Piraeus, the main port of Athens. Rafina and Lavrio are other Athens ports used on different routes, so check that your booking says Piraeus before you pay and plan your onward journey from there.
Yes, especially in high season, when popular sailings can sell out and timetables are tighter. Booking early lets you choose the time that suits your onward plans. Use the booking button on this page to compare options and get instant confirmation.
Why visit Piraeus (Athens port)?
- ✓ Catch a ferry from Piraeus, Greece's largest port, to the Cyclades, Saronic Islands or Crete
- ✓ Stroll the Mikrolimano marina and dine on fresh seafood right on the waterfront
- ✓ Explore the Hellenic Maritime Museum and its collection of ships, models and naval history
- ✓ Walk up to the Kastella hill for sweeping views of the Saronic Gulf and the harbours below
- ✓ Visit the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus to see its rare ancient bronze statues, including the Piraeus Apollo
When to visit Piraeus (Athens port)?
MEDITERRANEAN CLIMATE
April to June and September to October — pleasant temperatures, calm seas and fewer crowds than peak summer
What to do in Piraeus (Athens port)?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
How long to visit Piraeus (Athens port)?
Piraeus works best as a 1-day stop or a base for island hopping. In a few hours you can walk Mikrolimano and Zea marinas, visit the Hellenic Maritime Museum and the Archaeological Museum, and eat fresh fish by the water. Stay 2 days if you want to combine it with an Athens day trip (30 minutes by metro line 1) and catch an early ferry the next morning.
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