Best Ways to Get Around Santorini

Santorini’s cliffside villages, volcanic beaches and winding coastal roads make every journey part of the adventure. But while the island may look compact on a map, navigating between Oia, Fira and the southern beaches requires a bit of planning. Whether you’re exploring independently or joining a curated experience like Ultimate Santorini Day with Royal Beach Club, choosing the right transportation makes all the difference.

Here’s how to get around Santorini with ease.

Getting Around Santorini by Bus

Santorini’s public bus system is one of the most affordable ways to travel between towns. Most routes connect through Fira, the island’s main transportation hub. From there, you can reach Oia, Kamari, Perissa and even the ferry port.

Buses run regularly during high season, though they can become crowded midday and near sunset. If you’re staying near Fira, this is one of the simplest ways to move between major villages without renting a vehicle.

Renting a Car, Scooter or ATV

For maximum flexibility, renting a car or ATV is one of the most popular ways to explore Santorini. The island’s scenic routes are best enjoyed at your own pace, especially if you want to visit beaches, archaeological sites or quieter viewpoints.

Cars are ideal for families or groups, while ATVs and scooters offer easy maneuverability on narrow roads. Keep in mind that parking in Oia and Fira can be limited during peak hours.

If you’re planning a full day of sightseeing across multiple regions, a rental vehicle allows you to create your own route.

Using Taxis & Private Transfers

Taxis are available in Santorini, but are limited in number. During cruise ship arrivals and sunset hours, wait times can increase significantly. Booking a private transfer through your hotel or tour operator is often more reliable.

Private transfers are especially helpful if you’re arriving at the airport or ferry port with luggage or if you’re heading directly to a beach club or excursion meeting point.

Exploring Oia & Fira on Foot

Once you arrive in Oia or Fira, walking is the best way to explore. Both towns are pedestrian-friendly and filled with narrow alleyways, caldera viewpoints and boutique shops.

Comfortable shoes are essential. Expect stairs, uneven stone pathways and some uphill climbs. The views along the way, however, are worth every step.

Ultimate Santorini Day With Royal Beach Club: Transportation Included

If you prefer a seamless way to experience the island without navigating roads, parking or bus schedules, Ultimate Santorini Day with Royal Beach Club Santorini offers a fully coordinated transportation experience.

This full-day shore excursion includes transportation by bus only between stops, allowing guests to visit Oia, Fira and Royal Beach Club Santorini without planning logistics themselves. The three-stop tour is designed to make exploring effortless, with included transfers throughout the day.

Guests spend approximately 1.5 hours in Oia, about 1 hour and 15 minutes in Fira and around 3.5 hours at Royal Beach Club Santorini, though times are subject to change. Transportation, Wi-Fi and food are included as part of the experience.

Instead of coordinating taxis or rentals, everything is handled for you. You can wander Oia’s blue-domed cliffs, explore Fira’s vibrant capital atmosphere, then relax on a volcanic black sand beach with Mediterranean flavors and Aegean views — all without worrying about how to get from one place to the next.

For visitors who want to maximize time and minimize stress, this is one of the most convenient ways to get around Santorini in a single day.

Getting to Santorini From the Airport or Ferry Port

If you’re arriving independently:

From Santorini Airport: Taxis, car rentals and pre-booked transfers are available just outside the terminal. The airport is roughly 10–20 minutes from Fira, depending on traffic.

From Athinios Ferry Port: The port sits below steep cliffs, so arranging transport in advance is recommended. Buses and taxis operate from the port, but private transfers offer the most comfort after a long ferry ride.

Choosing the Best Transportation for Your Santorini Trip

The best way to get around Santorini depends on how you want to explore.

If you enjoy flexibility and spontaneous beach stops, renting a vehicle gives you full control. If you prefer affordability and simple routes between major towns, the bus system works well. If you value convenience and curated sightseeing with transportation included, joining an experience like Ultimate Santorini Day with Royal Beach Club removes the guesswork entirely.

Santorini’s beauty lies not only in its destinations but in the journey between them — winding coastal roads, caldera views and volcanic landscapes unfold with every turn. If you plan your transportation wisely, getting around Santorini becomes part of the magic.

Planning a Visit to Santorini? Explore More Inspiration & Tips:

• Best Beaches in Santorini – Discover the island’s most scenic beaches, from black sand shores to hidden coves.
• What To Buy in Santorini – Explore local treasures like volcanic wine, handmade ceramics and artisanal Greek goods to bring home.
• What Is Santorini Known For? – Learn about the island’s iconic architecture, sunsets and volcanic landscapes.
• Best Time to Visit Santorini – Find out when to plan your trip for ideal weather and fewer crowds.