Location & Transportation
When you arrive in Santorini, remember you’re entering the huge crater of an active volcano! Cruise passengers make their way to land via tenders operated by the Santorini Boatmen Union. Some of you will tender at the ferry port of Athinios and then take coach tours, while others will tender to the port of Skala below Fira.
From Skala, you have several options to reach Firá, the island’s bustling capital:
- Climb the steep, uneven flight of about 600 steps on a mule for roughly €10.
- Walk up the stairs at your own pace (make sure to wear sturdy footwear as the path can be slippery).
- Ride the cable car for about €10 one way (do note that the cable car station is a bit farther from town than the top of the stairs).
When ships are busy, you might consider booking a scheduled excursion with your cruise line to ensure you make it to Fira in good time. Another fun option is to grab a 20-minute boat transfer at the tender dock to Ammoudi Port in Oia for around €30, which includes a connecting bus ride to Oia town.
Sightseeing
Santorini is all about dramatic landscapes and timeless beauty. Every traveler comes to enjoy the quintessential experience:
- Wander the narrow, winding streets of Fira with its whitewashed houses cascading down the caldera.
- Marvel at breathtaking views from high cliffs that overlook deep blue waters and the still-active volcano.
- Discover the island’s ancient past at Akrotiri, where excavations have revealed a settlement frozen in time following the volcanic eruption around 1500 B.C.
- Explore the twin town charm of Fira and experience views that have captivated visitors for centuries.
Tours & Excursions
Santorini offers a wealth of activities that let you experience both its natural beauty and historic charm:
- Enjoy a scenic boat tour or tendered excursion that takes you along the caldera’s edge.
- Visit Oia, known for its peaceful vibe and world-famous sunsets. You can get there by:
- Taking a bus from Fira (just €1.80 one way) with a journey of about 30 minutes.
- Opting for a fast boat ride from Fira to Oia and back for approximately €25 per person.
- For beach lovers:
- Head to Kamari or Perissa to enjoy exotic black-sand beaches and water sports.
- If you’re after a quieter spot, try Monolithos, Vlichada, or Agios Georgios for a more relaxed vibe.
- Use local buses, rent a bike, or hire a car if you’d like to explore the island at your own pace.
- For a unique local experience, consider a donkey ride up or down the steep paths—an activity as memorable as it is a little rough!
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
A stroll through the narrow cobbled streets of Fira reveals plenty of shopping opportunities:
- Don’t miss Ypapantis Street, affectionately known as “Gold Street,” where modern jewels by renowned local and international designers sparkle in the window displays.
- Even if you’re just browsing, the unique local crafts and souvenirs make for wonderful keepsakes from your Santorini adventure.
Dining
Santorini’s cuisine is an integral part of its charm. As you explore, be sure to try:
- Local specialties such as tomato balls, Santorini salads, and a variety of split pea dishes.
- Unique offerings like white aubergine, stuffed courgettes, omelets, and cooked capers.
- Traditional cured ham known as apoxti, flavorful sausages, wild rabbit in a rich cheese and egg sauce, and brantada.
- Don’t forget to sample sweet melitinia and saffron bread rusks, which perfectly capture the island’s culinary heritage.
Culture & Local Events
Santorini blends ancient history with contemporary island life, offering visitors a taste of both:
- The island uses the Euro, and while US dollars might be accepted in some places, the exchange rate may not always work in your favor.
- Although Greek is the local language, you’ll find that English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
- Local events and festivals are common in the summer months. Check out the local tourism board for up-to-date details on music festivals, cultural exhibitions, and traditional celebrations.
- A word to the wise: the paths to Fira and around the island can be steep and uneven. Wear closed-toe, non-slip shoes and always watch your step. Be mindful of your belongings in busy areas.