Your Ultimate Guide to Getting From Santorini Airport to Oia

 

If you are a solo traveler or a couple, then one of the most important things to do when you land in Santorini airport is to find a reliable transportation option from the airport to your hotel in Oia. There are various options including pre-booking a private transfer, taking a taxi, and using a shuttle bus.

Taxi – The first and most popular option is to take a taxi. These silver-grey vehicles are always lining up at the taxi rank outside of the airport terminal, and they traverse the 17-km distance to Oia in approximately 25 minutes.

The downside is that the number of taxis on the island is limited, so you might have to wait in line for a while until one becomes available. This can add up to 30 minutes or more, especially during the peak tourist season.

Public KTEL buses, however, are another good option and cost much less than a taxi or car. You can also check the schedule on a website such as Omio, which will help you plan your journey and find out how long it takes.

Alternatively, you can get a car rental. These are not cheap, but they will save you time and money in the long run. You should also be prepared to spend time and money on a driver’s licence as the driving rules in Greece can be confusing at times.

Walking - If you are on a tight budget, then walking is a great way to explore the town. The villages are compact, with narrow roads that make for easy walking. Plus, you can see some beautiful views and enjoy the fresh air.

Ferry – You can reach the island of Thira by ferry from Athinios and Oia (Ammoudi). The service frequency depends on the season but you should expect at least one trip per day in each direction.

You can book your ticket online and pick it up at the port. If you want to go further afield, then there are connections with other Greek islands such as Crete and Mykonos.

If you want to avoid crowds and traffic, then it is best to pre-book a private transfer from Santorini airport to Oia. This will ensure that you are picked up at the right time and taken straight to your hotel. These services will usually cost around 60 Euros, but the advantage is that you don’t have to worry about navigating the busy streets of Oia.