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Santorini is the volcanic showpiece of the Cyclades, a short hop south of Naxos. Its caldera cliffs, blue-domed churches and sunsets do most of the work. The cheapest way to get from Naxos to Santorini is the ferry at $40 (€35). It's the quickest too, taking 1h 35m - 3h 25m. An organised day trip costs more if you'd rather leave the planning to someone else.
Below you'll find how each option works and what it costs.
Distance from Naxos to Santorini
Naxos and Santorini are about 77 km (48 miles) apart; the sea crossing itself covers around 105 km over water. The quickest way to get from Naxos to Santorini is by taking the ferry, which takes around 1h 35m - 3h 25m.
2 ways to travel from Naxos to Santorini
There are two ways to travel from Naxos to Santorini. You can choose between the ferry and day trip. The journey takes 1h 35m–12h and the quickest way is by ferry. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by ferry with tickets starting at $40 (€35).
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Naxos to Santorini by Ferry
Taking a ferry is the only way to get from Naxos to Santorini. You can choose between high-speed and larger, conventional ferries.
The journey takes 1h 35m - 3h 25m in total, and fares start from $40 (€35). This includes the ferry and the bus from Santorini Port to the town centre.
Ferries from Naxos to Santorini operate all year round. During the summer months, this route is very busy, so it's best to book your ferry tickets online in advance.
Step 1: Naxos to Santorini by Ferry
The two ferry companies operating the Naxos to Santorini route are Seajets and Blue Star Ferries.
Seajets is the faster option, with travel times ranging from 1 to 1.5 hours. The company uses high-speed catamarans. That said, if you're travelling on a windy day, some travellers say the ride can be bumpy and less comfortable. Fares are also almost twice as expensive as those of Blue Star Ferries.
Meanwhile, Blue Star Ferries is the slower but more affordable option. The journey to Santorini takes 2 to 3 hours on a conventional ferry, but the larger vessels generally provide a steadier ride. This may be a better option if you're prone to motion sickness.
Both ferries are trusted companies, so you can just choose based on your desired speed and budget. Fares from Naxos to Santorini start from $37 (€33).
Ferries depart from Naxos Port and arrive at Santorini Port.
Ferry tickets are available on Bookaway.
Tickets can sell out fast. Thus, if you’re travelling during the busy season, it’s best to book your tickets online at least a few days before your trip.
Ferry from Naxos to Santorini in Winter
Ferries run less frequently among the Cyclades islands in winter (November to March). On the Naxos to Santorini route, Blue Star Ferries usually operates year-round service.
Don’t be surprised if you're unable to buy a ticket online months in advance. As this is the off-peak season, very few passengers are taking this route anyway. You won’t have a hard time buying your ticket at the port. However, try to arrive there at least 30 minutes before the ferry’s departure.
If the schedules are not available online, you can always ask your hotel for assistance.
Step 2: Santorini Harbour to Fira by Bus or Taxi
From Santorini Port, you need to travel by bus or taxi to Fira, the island’s capital. Tourists usually stay in this town.
Buses bound for Fira are usually available at the port, just awaiting ferry arrivals. A ticket costs $3.10 (€2.70). Payment is made on the bus, so it's best to have coins or small bills. You can expect to arrive at Fira Bus Stop in about 30 minutes.
If the bus is already full, you have the option to take a taxi with rates from $46 (€40). Travel time would take around 20 minutes.
Is your hotel located elsewhere in Santorini? A taxi is your only option for a direct transfer. All buses from the port make their final stop in Fira. From Fira, you can take a bus to almost any town on the island.
Naxos to Santorini by Day Trip
Short on time but still want to visit Santorini? You can also join day trips from Naxos to Santorini. The tour normally takes 12 hours, including round-trip transfers and a bus tour around the island.
Round-trip ferry transfers between the two islands are included in the package, but the guided tour only begins once you board the tour bus in Santorini. This means you'll need to make your own way to Naxos Port to catch the ferry.
Also, keep in mind that while the tour lasts about 12 hours, the ferry rides between Naxos and Santorini take a combined 6 hours. That gives you just 6 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 $97 (€85).
Day Trip tickets are available on GetYourGuide.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit Santorini?
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!
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Naxos to Santorini. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from Naxos to Santorini?
The distance from Naxos to Santorini is 77 kilometres (48 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Naxos to Santorini?
The fastest way to get from Naxos to Santorini is by ferry and takes 1h 35m - 3h 25m.
What is the cheapest way to get from Naxos to Santorini?
The cheapest way to get from Naxos to Santorini is by ferry with ticket costs starting from €35.
Route Update History
Updated ferry prices.
Updated ferry prices.
About the Authors
Senior Travel Writer
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she's not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines. Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she'll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
Travel Writer
Selene is a writer who loves coffee, travel, and planning. After spending a decade in Manila, she left the city and her career in banking to embrace a more laid-back lifestyle. Now, she is discovering the beauty of slow-paced travel and finding joy in meaningful experiences.
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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.