In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 105 kilometre distance from Naxos to Santorini. Whether you prefer the scenic overnight train, a convenient bus+ferry combo, or the fastest flight option — we've got all the details you need.
There are 2 ways to get from Naxos to Santorini. You can choose between the ferry, day trip. The most affordable option is by ferry, starting from $37. The fastest route is by ferry (1h 40m).
Click a column header to sort. Click a row to jump to the full guide.
1h 40m
$37
--
13h
$75
--
Stay Connected
We're a small team of passionate travellers sharing what we've learned on the road. Get our best tips, route updates, and travel stories delivered to your inbox.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Taking a ferry is the only way to get from Naxos to Santorini. You can choose between high-speed and regular ferries. Prices start from $37, already including the bus fare from Santorini Port to the city centre. Total travel time can take 1h 40m - 3h, depending on the ferry.
The ferries from Naxos to Santorini are available all year. During summer, the commute can get really busy, and it is highly recommended that you book your ferry ticket online in advance.
If you’re travelling in winter, there are fewer ferry trips, and the schedules are irregular. You won’t have to worry about ticket availability though, as very few people choose to travel this route during this time.
Below, we explained the journey in two steps:
Do you plan on spending just a day in Santorini? In summer, you can also join day trips from Naxos to Santorini. The tour normally takes , including roundtrip transfers and a bus tour around the volcanic island.
Roundtrip transfers between the two islands are included in the package, but the guided tour starts only when you board the tour bus in Santorini. This means you’ll have to find your own way to the ferry from Naxos Port, unless you avail the optional pick-up service from your hotel.
Also, keep in mind that while the tour takes , the ferry transfers from Naxos to Santorini and back already take a total of 6 hours. That gives you just 6-7 hours to explore Santorini’s volcanic landscape. Not enough time if you ask us!
If you still want to book this day trip, you can do so via GetYourGuide or Greeka. Rates per person start from .
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Santorini is home to one of Greece’s most iconic trademarks — whitewashed buildings overlooking cliffs. They blend beautifully with the island’s rugged landscape, which was shaped by a massive volcanic eruption hundreds of years ago. Not-so-fun fact: Santorini sits on a still very active volcano, whose crater is hidden under the sea.
Volcanic-sand beaches dot the coasts of Santorini. Some black, some red, others even multi-coloured. They all open up to alluring turquoise waters that will make you want to take a dip. Do yourself a favour and spend at least one sunset in Oia. It will be one of the most picturesque views you’ll ever see!
Every route on GeckoRoutes is independently researched and regularly verified.
500+
ROUTES RESEARCHED
Every route is personally traveled and documented by our team, covering Southeast Asia's most popular and off-the-beaten-path connections.
Monthly
UPDATES
Routes are reviewed on a regular cycle to catch schedule changes, new operators, and price updates. Every guide shows when it was last verified.
Verified
BY TRAVELERS
Tips and corrections from our community of travelers help keep routes accurate between team visits. Your experience makes this guide better for everyone.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you book through them, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep GeckoRoutes free and up to date.
Ferry Schedule Notice
Ferry schedules can change due to weather, sea conditions, or seasonal adjustments. We recommend confirming departure times directly with the operator, especially during monsoon season.
Carbon Footprint
This 105 km journey produces approximately 9 g CO2 by bus. Taking public transport is one of the lowest-emission ways to travel this route.
Used the Songserm ferry from Koh Samui. Cheaper than Lomprayah but takes a bit longer. Still a perfectly fine crossing. The views approaching Koh Tao are stunning either way.
OOliver S.November 2025Ferry
Train via Surat Thani was our pick. More scenic than Chumphon route and the Lomprayah catamaran from Tapee Pier is very comfortable. Book the special express train for the quickest ride.
The overnight bus with Montanatip was okay but not great. The bus was older and the seats didn't recline much. Ferry portion was fine though. If you're on a tight budget it works.
Took the sleeper train to Chumphon — magical! Woke up to palm trees and transferred to the Lomprayah catamaran. Whole journey felt like an adventure.
Lomprayah bus+ferry combo from Khao San Road was seamless. Departed at 6am, arrived Koh Tao by 3pm. Well organized.
Flew to Koh Samui and took Lomprayah catamaran. More expensive but saved a full day. Worth it if your holiday is short.
Most travelers base themselves near the main beach for easy access to transport, restaurants, and activities.
Popular budget resort with pool, located on Sairee Beach. Walking distance to dive shops and restaurants.
800 THB/night ($24)
Beachfront bungalows with balconies overlooking Sairee Beach. On-site restaurant and dive center.
2,200 THB/night ($66)
Luxury resort with private beach, infinity pool, and spa. Perfect for couples wanting extra comfort.
6,500 THB/night ($195)
Leave a Comment