Santorini is known for its stunning sunsets and scenery, white, red, and black sand beaches, impressive traditional houses, balconies with views of the volcano, and busy nightlife. The town of Fira is the capital of Santorini and the biggest and most cosmopolitan settlement on the island.
Arriving on one of the most popular islands in Greece can be quite overwhelming, especially in high season. This is why it is important to know your options when arriving on the island so that you can make the most of your trip. When travelling from the Old Port to Fira, you have one main transfer option; the cable car. It takes a mere 13 minutes to reach the top and costs €6.
Alternatively, you could take a donkey ride up to the top of the mountain. However, this more traditional option is dangerous, uncomfortable and quite controversial. That being said, it is a method that has been used by locals for over 50 years. Regardless, it is generally recommended to walk up the steps instead.
1 options to go from Santorini Airport to city center
OPTION | PRICE | TIME | AVAILABILITY | |||
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Welcome Pickups Private Transfer | €12 | 13min | 06:30–23:00 | Convenience | Book | |
The views from the cable cars are spectacular. It is an excellent way to start your Santorini holiday. |
The safest and most comfortable way to reach the town of Fira from Santorini’s Old Port is by cable car. Tickets cost €6 per person and the cable cars leave every 20 minutes. It runs all day from 06:00 to 23:00 during high season (1st June – 31st August).
Taking a cable car up to Fira is a great way to admire the amazing view of the Caldera cliffs, the island’s turquoise sea, and the volcano from an altitude of 220 metres. Also, arriving in only 13 minutes gives you more time to explore the beautiful town and make the most of the small shops the town has to offer.
*It is important to know that on very windy days, the cable cars close for safety reasons.
How much is a cable car from Santorini Old Port to Fira?
A one-way adult ticket for the cable car from Santorini Old Port to Fira costs €6 and €3 for children under the age of 5.
*If you are carrying large luggage, you’ll need to pay a €3 fee.
Cable cars run from 06:30 to 23:00 from Santorini's Old Port.
Where do I get it from?
When you exit the ferry on the cruise ship dock at the Old Port, you will need to follow the road and turn left towards the Santozeum. After a few metres you will see the cable car station in front of you.
Convenience
Taking a cable car from Santorini Old Port to Fira is definitely the most convenient option. The journey is quick and the cable cars run fairly frequently. However, during the high season in summer, the waiting time can be very long.
Alternative options:
The only other available options are to walk up the steps yourself or ride a donkey. Taking a donkey from Santorini’s Old Port to the town of Fira is dangerous, slow, and uncomfortable and by far the most controversial transfer choice. This option is also not suitable for children as the ride is steep and can be quite scary.
More importantly, donkey rides definitely raise some animal rights issues. However, it is a method that has been used by locals for over 50 years. Instead, we recommend taking a leisurely walk up the steps whilst enjoying the view.
Timetables
Santorini Cable Car Timetable
Useful Tips
Sedan up to 4 passengers
€32Starting from 8 EUR / passenger
Minivan up to 8 passengers
€42Starting from 5.3 EUR / passenger
Minibus up to 12 passengers
€56Starting from 4.7 EUR / passenger
Frequently asked questions
How much is the cable car from Santorini Old Port to Fira?
The Old Port Santorini cable car costs just €6 for an adult ticket and takes 13 minutes to reach the top (Fira).
How do I get from Santorini Old Port to Fira?
There is only one main transfer option from the ferry port to Fira and that is the cable car. It takes a mere 13 minutes to reach Fira and you’ll pay €6 for a one-way ticket. Alternatively, Santorini donkey rides are a possibility, however, riding a donkey in Santorini comes with its fair share of controversy. The ride is also dangerous, uncomfortable and slow. We recommend enjoying the view and walking up on foot instead.
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