tours from crete to santorini

Santorini from Crete

Santorini One Day Cruises from Crete

Book your sea excursion to Santorini from Crete online, at really bargain prices. Here you will find all available tours to Santorini from Crete at the best available prices on the island. One-day cruises that provide you with transfers from/to your hotel or a nearby pick-up point (Except for passengers from Heraklion city who meet us directly at the port). The boats from Crete to Santorini depart only from Heraklion & Rethymnon ports. All our excursions include transfers to/from Crete port, transfers in Santorini, and Santorini tours (Oia, Fira, Kamari, and the famous Santorini volcano). Pick one of the following excursions that suit you best!

FREE CANCELLATION if you cancel your excursion at least 24 hours prior to your departure

Santorini One Day Cruise from Chania area [by HIGHSPEED BOAT]

Santorini one day cruise from heraklion port [by seajets lines highspeed boat], santorini one day cruise from lasithi area [by seajets highspeed boat], santorini one day cruise from rethymnon area (dep. rethymnon port) [by seajets highspeed boat], santorini two day cruise from heraklion port [by seajets lines highspeed boat].

VisitCrete.com

15 Arkoleon Str, GR-71202 Heraklion, Crete, Greece

Phone: (+30) 2810341560 Fax: (+30) 2810343740 Skype: visitcrete

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A Night Where Olive Groves Whisper Tales and Traditions Come Alive: An Enchanting Journey Through Crete’s Culinary Legacy

The Ultimate Guide to Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon Beach: Crete’s Spectacular Twin Wonders

Sailing in Crete: An Odyssey Through Azure Waters and Enchanting Isles

Samaria Gorge Celebrates Environment Day – Free Entrance!

10 Compelling Reasons Why to Visit Crete – Experience the Irresistible Charm of Crete

Crete to Santorini Island – 1 day tour

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Family friendly

One day tour from Crete to Santorini island

Tour from crete to santorini island with the luxurious seajets ( 1hr & 55min. boat trip) ..

There you will have the opportunity to enjoy the most spectacular view. As well as the volcanic surroundings, the colors of the sea, and the traditional architectural style.

Santorini Island has been featured on most blogs and travel agencies as one of the best destinations in the world.

Santorini is a place that does not need an advertisement. Surely each of you has come across pictures of this incredible island, which has become a showcase of the whole of Greece. Santorini is a volcanic island, with white and blue buildings located on a black, rugged slope. Such contrast makes the island look almost like a fairy tale. In addition, the history of Santorini is associated with a legend. Apparently, after the eruption of the volcano, which took place around the 15th century BC, the part of the land sunk underwater and disappeared, this is thought to be the legendary lost Atlantis.

The trip from Crete to Santorini will let you admire breathtaking views, picturesque landscapes, and local villages. You will have a chance to see not only famous white houses but also an uprising from the water volcanic crater. Additionally, you will walk in narrow alleys and relax on the black volcanic beach.

“The no1. tour destination from Crete”

Crete to Santorini day schedule:

BUS transfer from various locations in Hersonissos, Malia, Stalis, Analipsi, Anissaras, Gouves, or the starting point at Heraklion port.

08:00 Departure from Heraklion to Santorini – With the luxurious and fast Santa Irini

09:55: Arrival in Santorini Athinios. Departing from Athinios to Caldera by bus, accompanied by guides who will be at your service throughout the excursion. There you will be able to enjoy the most spectacular view, including the volcanic surroundings, the sea’s colors, the sun’s sun, and the traditional architectural style.

Arrival OIA (for 2 hours) The oldest village in Santorini. Stroll around it, small alleys and stone-built streets filled with culture and tradition. The harmony of the colors of the sea and the sun, and the wonderful view, bear the spirit of Hellenism and make Oia incomparable.

Arrival FIRA (for 1 and a half hour) The capital of Santorini, where you have free time to explore the picturesque traditional little alleys.

Possibility to stay at Fira or take a tour to the volcano.

16:05 Departure from Santorini to Crete.

17:45 Arrival in Heraklion port

The time schedule is approximate and delays may occur.

Crete is a great starting point for visiting Santorini. The ship leaves from the port of Heraklion in the morning and returns in the evening. Other ships are also working on the route between the islands, but we recommend going for speed and comfort. Santorini’s tour is fully organized. We provide a transfer to the port of Heraklion, tickets for the ship, care of the English-speaking tour guide, and a coach that will take you around the island.

In case one day tour to this paradise destination is not enough to book a 2 day trip from Crete to Santorini .

More about Santorini Island and its historical volcanic eruption.

The volcano of Thira didn’t simply produce a large hole on the island of Santorini, but radically modified the history of the ancient Mediterranean, as a train changes its rails and is heading for a full new direction.

Minoan civilization, the dominant civilization of the Mediterranean at that point, folded as a result of this eruption, in step with historians, definitively dynamical the political landscape of the traditional world. The environmental changes that have taken place are felt throughout the planet, even reaching China and probably North America and Antarctica.

But the epic of imaginary place and therefore the history of Biblical wounds with the next exodus from Egypt square measure coupled with the epic, however destruction.

Historians and archaeologists seem to agonize regarding the date when the volcano of Thera exploded, with a date somewhere between 1645 and 1500 B.C.. From varied studies administered within the ashes that remained at the bottom of the ocean, it was found that once the volcano exploded, the explosion that was caused was the strongest that ever happened within the times of humankind.

There is no proof of what really happened on its day, however scientists square measure ready to compare the analytical recordings of the explosion of the illustrious Kakarato volcano in the state in 1883.

The eruption of Thera volcano was four to 5 times stronger than that of Krakatau, in step with geologists, whereas its energy corresponds to the synchronous explosion of many atomic bombs in fractions of a second.

The fact that no valuable part to assist with the study of the volcano, like metals or perhaps human remains, suggests that the inhabitants of Santorini had foretold the explosion and had exhausted the island. sadly, however, the culture failed to have a similar fate.

Based on the neighboring island of Crete, the powerful culture suddenly bust down when the eruption of the Thera volcano. in step with historians, the tsunamis that caused it’s troubled its service fleet and coastal villages. The autumn temperature caused by the massive amounts of sulfur dioxide released into the atmosphere led to cold for several years and rains throughout the summer months, destroying the crops. The deadly combination affected each powerful Minoan fort in but fifty years.

In a terribly short amount of time, peaceful and effective sovereignty gave them an area within the warring city-state system of Ancient Greece, that currently dominated the Mediterranean, whereas the Aegean was the foundation stone for the history of Europe.

Additional information

BUS transfer from various locations in Hersonissos, Malia, Stalis, Analipsi Anissaras, Gouves, Kok. Hani.
Professional guide (EN, RU, FR, DE, CZ) *available after request
Ship ticket

Not Included:

Food and drinks

Tour Reviews

It sure was a beatiful and romantic place to be.. cosmopolitan and traditional at the same time… i would love to go back!!

Is this heaven?? I think so! This is the most beautiful island I have ever been!! The boat was very quick as we arrive in less than 2 hours.. everything was perfect!!

You made my dream come true! Santorini is gorgeous! The tour was organized great, and I had enough time to enjoy famous views of Oia and Fira!

Anyone know if bus collects from hotel ?

Hello Hayley, Yes, we offer free transfer from many places in Crete including Hersonissos, Malia, Stalis, Gouves, Analipsi, Anissaras and other. You can email us for more information. Thank you

Santorini was really beautiful place! The tour was organized good, may could be more time to enjoy the views of Oia and Fira, we have 1 day tour and unfortunately only 1,5 h in Oia and 1,5 h in Fira. For next visit may will better two days trip for enjoy this beautiful place… Because we were there in rush-hour and the aisles was really awfully crowded….We were also in Santorini Volcano Island where we had time for swimming in sourc of volcano. It was really nice experience. Thank you for this trip :-).

I will come to Crete in August and I would like to do this tour, is it still available this year ?

Thank you in advance

It was amazing crete is the most beautiful Island ive ever been too!

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Preveli / Rethymno

Spinalonga Island Tour

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About this activity

Santorini Island Full-Day Tour from Crete

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Picturesque white houses perched on the rocky hills of Oia
Breathtaking views from the highest point on the island
Leisurely downhill stroll from beautiful Imerovigli to Fira
Traditional Greek settlements on a scenic island
Free time to explore Fira at your own pace

Activity location

Santorini, GRC

Meeting/Redemption Point

Chania, Greece

Multiple meeting/redemption points available, see location information for full list

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What's included, what's not.

What's included What's included Guided bus tour of Santorini
What's included What's included Roundtrip transportation between Crete and Santorini via boat
What's included What's included Live tour commentary provided in English
What's included What's included Live tour commentary provided in German
What's included What's included Live tour commentary provided in French
What's excluded What's excluded Lunch

Know before you book

Hotel pickup is available from Malia till Agia Pelagia area from Heraklion Port. Please arrange pick up from your hotel or a nearby location upon confirmation with the local agency.
A pre-boarding declaration is required which will be send to you with your reservation voucher or you can find it before boarding.
Face masks are mandatory in the bus and inside the boat.
As per Greek legislation a vaccination or recovery certificate is needed. Otherwise a rapid test(48h) or PCR test(72h) is required before boarding
Hotel pickup is available from Chania till Rethymno area from Rethymno Port. Please arrange pick up from your hotel or a nearby location upon confirmation with the local agency.

What you can expect

Cruise to world-famous Santorini Island, one of the most picturesque islands in the Mediterranean. Visit Oia, Imerovigli, and Fira and walk along the breathtaking cliffs of the Santorini caldera. Enjoy a guided tour of the island as well as free time to explore at your leisure.

Take in the best of Santorini Island, famous for its amazing sunsets. Embark on a lovely cruise from either the Rethymnon or Heraklion port to Santorini Island. Upon reaching the port of Santorini, admire from the water the charming white houses perched on the rocky hills of Oia. It's then time to hop on board a comfortable bus and enjoy a guided tour of the island, while your guide tells you about its history and points of interest.

Drive to Oia, the highest point of the island and enjoy some free time to explore the beautiful surroundings. You also visit Imerovigli, taking time to admire the blue Aegean Sea and the islands beneath the rocky hills. Take a leisurely downhill stroll, approximately 1 mile (1.5 km) from Firostefani to Fira, to admire the impressive caldera.

Before returning to your port, explore the capital of Fira on your own time. Walk through the labyrinthine alleys, visit local shops, indulge in a traditional Greek lunch, or choose to visit one of the nearby black-sand beaches.

Cleaning and safety practices

Enhanced cleanliness measures.

Vehicles and venues cleaned with disinfectants
Vehicles and venues kept vacant between travelers
High-touch surfaces cleaned and disinfected

Social distancing

Contactless ticket redemption
Social distancing measures in place
Protective shields in place at main contact areas

Safety measures

Masks required
Personal protective equipment worn by staff
Individually wrapped food options available
Temperature checks given to staff
Temperature checks available
741 00, Rethimno, Greece
Heraklion, Greece

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Plan unforgettable road trips!

Crete to Santorini Day Trip (2024): options + tips

Last updated on February 7, 2024 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Planning a holiday in Crete but don’t want to miss the famous island of Santorini? Don’t worry it is totally feasible either with a group or self-organized. It will be a long day but you will get to see one of the most unique places in the world. Below is my guide to help you plan your Crete to Santorini day trip with tour options, ferries, tips…

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Crete:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Crete: DiscoverCars

The unmissable boat tour: Gramvousa island + Balos Lagoon

Fun activity: Quad excursion off the beaten path

My favorite places to stay:

Chania: see best rated hotels – e.g. Casa Delfino
Palaiochora: see best rated hotels – e.g. Blue Horizon Hotel
Rethymno: see best rated hotels – e.g. Leo Hotel

Is a day trip from Crete to Santorini worth it?

The first question everybody has: Is the day trip from Crete to Santorini worth it. Well it depends… Below are some pros and cons for you to take an informed decision.

Pros of planning a day to visit Santorini –

It is the famous island of Santorini with jaw dropping cliffs and charming white houses – this is truly a unique place
Crete is only a 2h30 ferry ride from Santorini, if you are not planning a trip to Greece any time soon, it is a great opportunity
There are organized tours. So you don’t have to worry about a thing. You just follow the flow.

Cons of planning a day trip to Santorini –

It will cost you more than a day trip inside Crete
Over one day, you will have the bus then the ferry and same for the return, so you will only have something like 6 hours to really explore the island. Santorini is big and traffic is intense, so you can see only a few spots
It is a very crowded place. If you don’t enjoy being surrounded by hundreds people, don’t do it

If you are staying less than a week in Crete, then it is not worth it. There are already amazing sights on the island. If you want a white village, go to Loutro . If you have a week or more and you know you won’t come back soon to Greece, then yes. Especially if it has been a dream for a long time. Some people say they have been disappointed. It is true that it has become extremely touristic, but the craziness of this location with the caldera cliffs and villages is still amazing!

Below is a photo from Oia that might seal the deal.

Is a day trip from Crete to Santorini worth it?

Shortcuts to organized tours in 2023

If you don’t want to read the whole article and just want to look at options where everything is organized for you, check out:

a Santorini day trip from Chania – includes hotel pick and drop off, ferry to Santorini, guided bus tour (with air conditioning) to Oia, Fira and a beach stop Check out program and Book
a Santorini day trip from Rethymno – includes ferry and guided bus tour (with air conditioning) to Oia, Fira and a beach stop – no hotel pick up as it departs from the easily accessible Rethymno port Check out program and Book
a Santorini day trip from Heraklion (or extra bus pick up in Elounda or Agios Nikolaos) – includes ferry to Santorini, guided bus tour (with air conditioning) to Oia, Fira and a beach stop Check out program and Book
a Santorini overnight tour – includes way more time to discover this gorgeous island and the opportunity to see the famous Oia sunset – with hotel pick up and drop off in Crete Not available anymore

Overnight Santorini Tours from Crete: the sunset 2

Crete to Santorini Trip – your questions answered

How to get to Santorini from Crete? The main option is by ferry. But there is also the option of flying.
How long is the ferry ride from Crete to Santorini? Different ferry services run between Crete and Santorini. The high speed catamarans are the fastest. They will take you from Heraklion to Santorini island in approximately 2h30 or from Rethymno to Santorini in 2h50. The ferries are more frequent in Summer with usually 2 per day from Heraklion (April to Mid October).
Can you fly from Crete to Santorini? There is a possibility to fly from Crete to Santorini from the Heraklion airport. Sky Express is the company. However there are limited seats and considering how short the ferry ride is, I think the boat is the best option.
What is the cheapest way from Crete to Santorini? Swimming 🙂 Kidding… but it is the truth. The ferries are the cheapest options compare to flights.
How many days do you need in Santorini ? Ideally I think 3 days is a good time to visit the island of Santorini in order to enjoy the white villages on the rim and the center of the island off the beaten path plus explore the various beaches and admire it by boat. But seeing Santorini is a unique experience, so even with just one day you can already appreciate the impressive cliffs of the caldera and the unique look of the villages.
Crete to Santorini day trip price / cost If you are booking one of the organized tours (listed above) it will cost you around 170 euros per person. Any self organized tour will be more expensive.

Travel from Crete to Santorini – ferry ride

If you organized yourself or book an tour, you will have to take a ferry from Crete to Santorini. So here is what it looks like.

Crete to Santorini Ferry companies and departures

There are 2 main companies operating high speed catamaran ferries from Crete to Santorini ( book Greek ferries here ):

Seajets – with Champion Jet boats Classic operating hours April to October (but check your ticket) are: Heraklion to Santorini ferry – departure at 7:50 (arriving at 10:15) or departure from 8:40 (arriving at 10:35) and return at 4:50pm from Santorini (arriving at 6:35pm) or return at 5:15pm from Santorini (arriving at 7:15pm) Or Rethymno to Santorini ferry: departure at 7:45 (arriving at 10:35) and return at 4:50pm from Santorini (arriving at 7:50pm)
Minoan Lines Classic operating hours April to October (but check your ticket) are: Departure from Heraklion at 9:40 (arriving at 11:40) and return from Santorini at 5:45pm (arriving at 7:30)
There are also larger ferry boats but they take longer (3h45 from Rethymno), so there is no point for a day trip

Inside the ferry from Crete to Santorini

You don’t have to be 1h early for boarding. It all goes very fast and access does not open early. If you don’t have an hotel pick up, come to the port 30 to 45min before. Pay attention, the boarding goes very fast. And watch out where you walk. The access on the boat is via the metal hatch and it is uneven flooring. People will leave their luggages and all passengers make their way to the seating areas.

All tickets have a seat number and reserved seat. Find the map to locate your section and then find you number.

All the ferries have some kind of food service.

If authorized (depending on weather conditions), make sure to go outside as you get closer to Santorini. This way, without doing the small boat tour, you still get to enjoy the caldera with the layers of red and dark rocks and the white villages covering the rim of the volcano.

You can see the crazy steep cliffs and the white villages atop on the rim of the volcano. Impressive!

I must admit that getting on and off the ferries were some fo the worst experiences I had while traveling in Greece. They are crowded and there is very little time to get off and for the next travelers to get in. There is only limited space at the port but lots of boats (cruise, ferries, products…) waiting. The good news is that on a day trip you don’t have to carry your luggage around. It will be a lot easier for you.

From there buses, taxis and pick ups are on the left. If you don’t have any transportation organized, go fast to catch a taxi!

Option A – Crete to Santorini Day Tour (organized)

If you only have one day, the easiest option for you is really to book an organized tour. You won’t have a choice of where to go, but you won’t have to worry about timing and finding things. Tours to Santorini leave from the ports of Heraklion and Rethymno. If you’re staying in Chania or Agios Nikolaos you’ll get hotel pickup by bus to take you to the port.

Organized tour from Crete to Santorini – Programs

All tours from Crete to Santorini have the same program.

The day starts with a hotel pick up if you are in Chania or Agios Nikolaos / Elounda
Your ferry departs either from Rethymno or Heraklion
You enjoy the 2h30/2h50 on the ferry – food can be purchased
Once you arrive in Santorini, you find the bus matching the information you were given
The first stop will be the famous village of Oia in the North of the island where you will walk and see the famous view
Then you can enjoy Thira, the capital of Santorini – you have free time to explore, shop and eat
In the afternoon most offer different options: stay in Thira, head to one of the black sand beaches on the East coast (Perissa or Perivolos) or take a boat tour to the caldera (extra price)
And then back to the port, on the ferry and back to the hotel.

Book your tours

Santorini day trip from Chania – Check out program and Book
Santorini day trip from Rethymno – Check out program and Book
Santorini day trip from Heraklion (or extra bus pick up in Elounda or Agios Nikolaos) – Check out program and Book

Bus tour to Oia & Perissa beach

If you are wondering what you will see on a bus tour where you don’t have a choice, here are a few pictures:

Visiting Oia in Santorini

You will walk the narrow alleys of the white village where you will only see restaurants, hotels and shops. Even though it is extremely touristic, you can enjoy the local architecture and maze-like experience.

Crete to Santorini Day trip - Bus tour to Oia 4

Don’t miss the many churches and bells

Crete to Santorini Day trip - Bus tour to Oia 5

From several spots in the village you can have impressive views of the volcanic cliffs with the white constructions above. The whole geography is very impressive.

Crete to Santorini Day trip - Bus tour to Oia 2

You can get to the ruins of the castle to see the most photographed place in Greece: Amoudi Bay

Crete to Santorini Day trip - Bus tour to Oia

Bus stop at Perissa Beach

In the afternoon you can spend some time at one of the black sand beaches on the East Coast. Below are pictures of Perissa. The contrast is surprising.

Crete to Santorini Day trip - Perissa beach 1

Santorini Caldera boat tour

My favorite activity in Santorini is the sailing tour. However it takes all day so it is not compatible with your day trip from Crete. But you can still enjoy a shorter tour that goes to the center of the Caldera and its hot waters. This is a extra you can choose on the day trips. For those interesting in geology, this might be a great option.

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

Option B – Self-organized Crete to Santorini Day Trip

Step 1 – book your ferry .

Book your ticket departing Rethymno or Heraklion. If leaving from Heraklion you can take the earliest one in and book the latest one back, to have to most time available possible in Santorini. Those ferries can get full in Summer so make sure you prebook on the Internet. And at the port get your final ticket from the booths (they open 1h30 to 1h before departure) Book your ferry rides

Step 1b alternative – Crete to Santorini flight

You can also opt for a flight – very limited seats. The company is Sky Express

Step 2 – Book your transportation

You can either:

Book a bus tour (but then it is as limiting as the organized tour)
Book a private tour – Check out some options here
Rent a car (know that renting from the port is more expensive, but considering you only have one day that’s your best option) – compare prices on on Discovercars.com
Use public transportation – considering you have only one day, I would not recommend it – unless you just want to go to one place and back to the port. Connecting bus in the main town Thira.

If you are organizing your own visit, consider my favorite places in a section below. And plan enough time for driving and getting back down to the port. There is a lot of traffic on the island!

Self-organized Crete to Santorini Day Trip

Option C – Overnight tour to Santorini from Crete

If you have a little bit more time in Greece, you can plan an overnight tour to Santorini from Crete. Most of what I explained earlier applies; But you can spend the night and explore a bit more. This will allow you to experience the sunsets Santorini is famous for.

Organized tour not available anymore

Overnight Santorini Tours from Crete: the sunset 1

Self organized

As for the day tour, you can also organize things yourself,

Step 1 – Book your ferry rides
Step 2 – Book your accommodation I recommend staying in Oia if you want to enjoy the famous sunset, or staying in Emporio if you want something different and less touristic or staying in Kamari for a beach stay. Check out the best rated accommodations in Santorini and use the map function Or check out my article about the best places to stay in Santorini.
Step 3 – Rent a car – Compare car rental prices on Discovercars.com – one of the best customer-rated comparison sites! Choose the car and company you prefer (I recommend a smaller car)

Define your itinerary in Santorini with my travel guide eBook:

Plan your dream trip in Crete thanks to my guide

Small Mainland Portugal Algarve ebook cover

5 maps to easily plan your itinerary
60+ pre-selected locations
GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
Tips to make the most of your time
150+ original photos to help you choose

One day in Santorini – My self-organized alternative

I showed you earlier how to plan your own day trip from Crete to Santorini. It you choose this option and rent a car, below are 3 stops I would include on top of Oia.

Those black beaches are for people who want to swim and sunbath. But if you love geology or just amazing scenery, head to the red beach. The cliffs are made of red volcanic rocks and the contrast with the small white church is gorgeous.

Vlichlada Beach

Vlichada beach is not famous at all (except for naturist who go at the far end). But for those like me who are fascinated by crazy rock formations, this is a wonderful place. The cliffs are twisted and wave-like sculpted by erosion. I walked for a really long time, mesmerized by the shapes.

Everybody runs to Oia and Thira. And I understand. They are built on stop of steep cliff with beautiful sea views and white walls contrasting with the dark volcanic rocks. However Emporio was the village that stole my heart in Santorini, in the South center of the island. I was almost alone as I explore the narrow alleys. The geometrical shapes and colors were fascinating. And it felt like traveling back in time.

Are you also planning a road trip in Crete? Check out my eBook to help you plan it:

Want to see more of the best Crete has to offer ?

40 best landscapes in Crete (in pictures) – read article
20 best things to do in Crete – read article
The 27 best beaches in Crete – read article
The most beautiful archaeological sites – read article
The best destinations in Crete, where to stay – read article
The most beautiful boat trips around Crete – read article
Chania or Heraklion or Rethymno – where to go? – read article

Where to stay in Crete?

My favorites:

Chania , a charming town: See best rated accommodations
Rethymno , history, beach and central location: See best rated options
Heraklion , main city: See best rated options
Palaiochora , for stunning scenery, away from crowds – See best rated options
Mochlos , for a very quiet area: see best rated options
For a sandy beach and some nightlife: Malia or Bali

And keep track of your own trip!

Want to see more of CRETE?

BOAT TRIPS FROM CRETE

Best landscapes in Crete (in 40 pictures)

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Reader Interactions

August 7, 2019 at 2:56 PM

Extremely informative thank you. Really want to visit Santorini on a day trip but confused by different options but this has helped. Travel first time to. Greece in 6 weeks

August 7, 2019 at 3:32 PM

Hi Kathleen Thanks. I am glad you are finding it useful. Greece is really wonderful. Beauty and history. I wish you wonderful travels! Claire

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How To Get From Crete to Santorini

Updated On: July 10, 2023

Written By: Pavlos Inglesis

You basically have 3 ways to get from Crete to Santorini: by ferry, by plane or by an organized tour ( like this one ). Ferries from Crete to Santorini depart from Chania, Rethymno, Heraklion or Agios Nikolaos.

In my honest opitnion, the best way to get from Crete to Santorini is by taking an organised tour that will also pick you up from your hotel in Crete. These are the best daytrip tours from Crete to Santorini:

FROM CHANIA: Santorini Daytrip (with hotel pickup from Chania, 4 hr boat tour to Santorini and lots of free time to spend at Fira and Oia)
FROM HERAKLION: Santorini Daytrip (taking the Champion Jet 2 from Heraklion and hop on an airconditioned bus at Fira while you also get the option to get on a guided volcano tour)
FROM RETHYMNO: Santorini Daytrip (hotel pick up anywhere close to Rethymno, hop on Champion Jet catamaran and visit Fira, Oia and the famous beaches of Perissa and Perivolos)
FROM AGIOS NIKOLAOS: Santorini Daytrip (hotel pickup from Agios Nikolaos area but actually depart from Heraklion where you will take the boat to Santorini and spend the day there)

If you don’t want to do an organised tour (which I do not recommend as you will spend too much time trying to figure out what is going on with the ferries and where to go when you arrive on Santorini), there is nothing stopping you from booking your ferry tickets or flights from Crete to Santorini as an individual.

You can always search directly from here the available ferries from Crete (Chania, Heraklion, Rethymnon and Agios Nikolaos) to Santorini:

READ ALSO: Athens to Santorini (ferries, flights and schedules) Santorini to Mykonos (ferries, flights and schedules) Crete in May (what to expect) Best Beaches in Crete (tropical waters and golden sand) Best Things to Do in Crete (wine tasting, prehistoric ruins, hiking and many more)

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RECOMMENDED WEBSITES FOR GREECE:

🛏️ Booking.com is the website with the most available rooms and Private Villas in Athens, Santorini , Mykonos & Crete (more than Airbnb!)

⛴️ Ferryhopper is the best website to book your ferry tickets or check the timetables for Santorini, Mykonos , Crete & all greek islands

🏺 Get Your Guide has the best and largest variety of Tours in Athens and the greek islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete etc)

🚙 Rentalcars is the easiest way to rent a car or a quad for Greece with thousands of available options

✈️ Booking.com Flights has all the available flights to and from the greek islands

🚕 Book Your Driver (Taxi) directly with booking.com’s large and safe platform of available certified drivers

VERY IMPORTANT TO KNOW

You basically have 3 options of getting from Crete to Santorini: by ferry , by plane or by a tour .
Best Way To Get From Crete to Santorini: By an organised tour that will pick you up from your hotel; From Chania , from Heraklion , from Rethymno or from Agios Nikolaos .
All boats/ferries to Santorini depart only from Rethymno or Heraklion ports (the organised tours will pick you up with a bus from Chania or Agios Nikolaos to take you there so you really don’t have to worry about local buses)
Best Website for Ferry Prices & Timetables from Crete to Santorini: Ferryhopper – ALWAYS CHECK THE LATEST FERRY TIMETABLES AND PRICES AS FERRY SCHEDULES IN GREECE CHANGE FREQUENTLY!
Flights from Crete to Santorini: unfortunately there are no direct flights from anywhere in Crete to Santorini for 2020 so taking a ferry or a daytrip tour is your only opion.
Between April-October there are 4 ferries a day from Crete to Santorini (and Santorini to Crete); there are far less ferry options in the winter (November-March) or possibly no direct ferry.
How long does it take from Crete to Santorini: it varies from 2hrs (fast-Champion Jet) to 4 hrs (slow-Superferry)
How much does it cost to take a ferry from Crete to Santorini: the slowest ferry (Superferry) costs 40 euros and the fast ferry (Champion Jet) can cost up to 80 euros for airplane type seats.
You can book your ferry online but you always have to get the ticket printout from the ferry kiosk in Heraklion/Rethymno port or any other greek travel agency (it’s the greek law) in Crete
There is no ferry from Chania or Agios Nikolaos to Santorini: you basically have to take the local bus to Rethymno or Heraklion (1-1.5 drive)
LOCAL BUS FROM CHANIA TO RETHYMNO: check timetables , prices and book your Bus here
LOCAL BUS FROM AGIOS NIKOLAOS TO HERAKLION: check timetables, prices and book your Bus here

Ok, so let’s see all the available options:

1. Crete to Santorini with a Daytrip Tour

Taking an organized daytrip to Santorini from Crete is the bestt hing you can do as the operator will pick you up from your hotel (so you don’t have to worry about the local buses in Crete) and you will also be guided on Santorini on a private bus (and you will also not have to worry about Santorini local buses or taxis).

All guided daytrips from Crete to Santorini pick you up from your hotel and take you to a port (Rethymno or Heraklion) to board on the ferry to Santorini. These are not private boats but the normal ferries that go to Santorini.

All of the tours also offer a bus that will take you around in Santorini and basically return back to Crete (Rethymno or Heraklion) in the evening.

You get about 6-7 hours on Santorini where you will visit Fira, Oia and

There are plenty of daytrips to Santorini from Crete options that you can actually book online on Get Your Guide but these stand out:

FROM CHANIA: Santorini Daytrip (with hotel pickup from Chania, 4 hr boat tour to Santorini and lots of free time to spend at Fira and Oia)

2. Crete to Santorini by ferry

Going to Santorini from Crete by ferry is basically your only other option if you don’t want to take any organized daytrips.

A few important things to know about the ferries from Crete to Santorini (and from Santorini to Crete):

You have 2 ports to chose for your departure from Crete to Mykonos: Heraklion port or Rethymnon port. There are no ferries to Santorini from Chania or Agios Nikolaos.
The slow ferry from Crete to Santorini takes approx. 3.5 hours to arrive (Superferries) – check timetables here
The quick ferry (it’s actually a catamaran) from Crete to Santorini takes about 2 hours to arrive (Champion Jet 2) – check timetables here
Slow Ferry ticket to Santorini costs ~40 euros (depending on the seat you chose)
Fast Ferry ticket to Santorini costs ~80 euros (depending on the seat you chose)
Between April-October there are 4 ferries per day between Crete and Santorini.
The ferries to Santorini usually depart early in the morning and come back to Crete in the afternoon (usually after 5pm)
There are no ferries from Crete to Santorini between November and March (but these thigns change so always check Ferryhopper )

Where can you book ferry tickets from Crete to Santorini?

The best thing you can do is to book them online in advance on Ferryhopper website.

You would still have to get the printout from the ferry kiosk outside of the ferry depart point (at the port) before departing (so make sure you arrive there early enough).

HOW TO GET FROM CHANIA TO RETHYMNO PORT

The easiest and cheapest way to get from Chania to Rethymno so that you can take the ferry to Santorini is by taking the local Crete bus.

There is a bus that runs every hour between the 2 towns and you can basically book your bus ticket online.

There is a bus between Chania and Rethimno every hour and the ticket costs 6.80 euros (but always check the website as these things change on an annual basis).

The trip from Chania to Rethimno takes about 1 hour by bus.

Here is a video showing how you can get the KTEL local Crete bus from Chania to Rethymno:

HOW TO GET FROM AGIOS NIKOLAOS TO HERAKLION PORT

The easiest and cheapest way to get from Agios Nikolaos to Heraklion port is to take the local KTEL bus.

Book your but ticket and check timetables here (Agios Nikolaos-Heraklio)

There is a bus to Agios Nikolaos every hour and the ticket costs 7.70 euros. The trip takes 1.5 hour.

3. Crete to Santorini by plane

Unfortunately there are no direct flights from Crete to Santorini but these things change every year, so you should always check Booking.com Flights for any available flights .

CHANIA AIRPORT CODE: CHQ

HERAKLION AIRPORT CODE: HER

SITIA AIRPORT CODE: JSH

(Sitia is the airport closest to Agios Nikolaos in Eastern Crete)

A visit to Santorini is totally doable and it will be a highlight of your trip to Crete actually! Taking a guided daytrip to Santorini ( like this one ) is the best way to take a glimpse of this greek gem that is Santorini. The good thing about the guided tour is that they will have arranged everything for you and they will actually pick you up from your hotel pretty much anywhere in Crete. But you can also book everything by yourself which will obviously take you a bit more time. The easiest way to check timetables and even book any ferry tickets online has been Ferryhopper and I highly recommend it to everyone looking to get a ferry from Crete to Santorini or to and from other Greek islands.

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5 thoughts on “how to get from crete to santorini”.

I am looking to book a Champion Jet 2 catamaran from Crete, Heraklion to Santorini in, 1 way, in the end of October. It’s my honeymoon. I have typed the date of Wednesday 26th October but no dates are available for any dates around this time. Is this because it is too far in the future for selecting trips at this current time? If so please advise when these available times would become available?

Many kind Regards

Unfortunately, chances are that there will be no ferries at all from Crete to Santorini at that time of the year. Direct ferries between these 2 islands only operate between early May – early October. 26th of October is considered low season and there is no high demand for such a route so it’s not operating at all. Maybe things change this year, so make sure you check again in July and August but I really doubt it to be honest…

Is it possible to book a trip to santorini ,stay overnight and return the following eve.. woukd orefer the fast ferry option?

Yes, it’s totally doable but it would be tiring. In that case you definitely need the fast ferry option and you only have the option to take the ferry from Heraklion. There is no direct ferry from Chania to Santorini unfortunately.

I would like to inquire about the Ferry details (High Speed ferry) for April 3rd 2024 morning time from Crete / Heraklio to Santorini (Thira), 3 members.

Online i could not find any ferries for that day…Can you please assist me if there are any ferry rides, if yes, what is the pricing?

TOP RATED HOTELS IN:

Chania: Domes Noruz Chania Hotel Heraklion: Aquila Atlantis Rethymnon: Caramel Grecotel Agios Nikolaos: Daios Cove Resort Elounda: Elounda Peninsula Hersonissos: Abaton Island Resort Malia: Royal Heights Resort

TOP RATED VILLAS IN:

Chania: Cavo Dago Villa

Heraklion: Hersonissos Beach Villa

Rethymnon: White Grace

Agios Nikolaos: Villa Hermione

Elounda: Elounda Luxury Villa

BEST THINGS TO DO IN CRETE:

🌄 Samaria Gorge Full Day Hike

🍷 Daytrip to Santorini

🏛️ Knossos Palace Guided Tour

ALL AVAILABLE FERRIES TO GREEK ISLANDS:

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My name is Pavlos and I come from the beautiful country called Greece. You can follow me on Twitter here and I will try to do my best to respond to you personally. This is my blog to help you plan your next holidays to Greece and the greek islands, whether it is Santorini, Mykonos, Crete or even Athens. I was actually born in Athens and I have been to almost all of the greek islands and pretty much most of mainland Greece. I know the ins and outs of my country and hopefully my travel blog will help you make the most of your holidays .

Booking.com i s the website with the most available rooms and Private Villas in Athens, Santorini , Mykonos & Crete (more than Airbnb!)

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Get Your Guide has the best and largest variety of Tours in Athens and the greek islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete etc)

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Tour details.

2 Days Tour to Santorini Island from Heraklion

Definitely the best way to visit Santoini as you can enjoy the beautiful sunset of Oia, the romantic night of Fira. Ofcourse there will be plenty of time to visit all the volcanic beaches, take a boat cruise to the volcano, visit the archaeological sites and the world famous wineries. Transportation, boat tickets, hotel with breakfast and transfer to and from the port is provided to allparticipants.

Highlights:

Travel to Santorini by a high-speed boat
Discover the beauty of the island on board an air-conditioned bus
Find out useful information about the island and its history from our guide
Explore the Village of Oia and the capital town, Fira
Experience the islands Magical Sunset and its nightlife
Overnight stay at hotel
Go for a swim off a black sand beach of Perissa (on request, with no extra charge)
Take atrip to the Volcanic Hot Springs (optional with extra charge)

Know before you go

We offer pick-up from various points such us hotels and bus stops.

As soon as you make the booking, we will contact you in order to let you know the exact place and time of the Pick-up which is closer to your place of staying.

The excursion operator, has the right to change the order of the program, if necessary, to better serve the travelers or the safety of them.
Passengers are required to bring and wear face masks in indoor places and while travelling by bus, as long as it is requested by the government covid regulation

Timetable Information :

2 DAYS – Starts 8am / Ends next day 18:00

Full Description :

Pick Up: We will start collecting participants from pick-up points in the morning.

Depending on the place of your hotel/apartment the bus drive will differ.

1st stop:Heraklion port.

Embarkation on a speed boat and departure for Santorini.Enjoy a 1.40 hours journey by a high-speed boat from Crete to Santorini. On board you can enjoy drinks and snacks from the snack bar (not included).

Boat trip: 2 hours

2nd stop: Port Athinios, of Santorini

Arrival on Santorini after about 2h boat trip. Embarkation on the buses for the guided tour.

Bus Drive to Oia: 40 minutes

3rd stop:Oia – 1 hour 45 minutes

Visit the beautiful blue and white village built on the cliffs of Santorini, providing amazing views of the volcanic Caldera. Participants will enjoy about 1 hour and 45 minutes of free time, to photograph the Aegean architecture and the unique view over the caldera and the Aegean sea.

Bur Drive to Fira: 30 minutes

4th stop: Fira – 1 hour 20 minutes

Fira is the the main town of Santorini, built on the edge of a cliff 300 meters above the sea. Participants will enjoy its narrow streets, white vaulted houses, blue domes and magical view of the Caldera and the Volcano.

Following, there are 3 available options for the next 1.5 hours:

Visit by bus a black sand volcanic beach (free of charge)
Take a cruise by a wooden boat to the volcano and hot springs (extra charge)
Stay longer in Fira and enjoy lunch in one of the restaurants overlooking the breathtaking Caldera.

5th stop: Hotel – check in

A driver will pick up participants in order to get transferred to their accommodation.

Breakfast at the hotel – Check Out

Participants will enjoy their breakfast and then after checking – out will have free time to explore on their own pace.

Transfer to the port: Port Athinios, of Santorini

Return by buses to the port, please pay attention to your guide who will assist on the embarkation procedure.

Return Boat Trip: 2 hours

End of the tour – Return to resorts :

Embarkation in the buses and drive back to the hotels where we gathered participants in the morning.

Depending on traffic and on the pick-up places of each one, the time of journey back to the hotel will differ.

Departure & Return Location

TRANSFER FROM HOTELS

Agia Pelagia/Ligaria*: 6:40/6:35 – 20:30
Ammoudara : 7:00 – 19:00
Karteros/Kokkini Hani: 7:00 – 19:30
Gouves: 6:40 – 20:00
Analipsi/Anissaras: 6:25 – 20:00
Hersonissos: 6:35 – 20:00
Stalis/Malia: 5:45/6:05 – 20:30

Departure Port

Heraklion Port

Price Includes

Transportation in Air-Conditioned bus from hotel to port and back.
Professional Driver
Accommodation in centrally located hotel (in double or triple room)
Transport from hotel to Santorini port the next day
All the legal taxes

Not included

Museum Entrance
Food/Drinks/Meals on the island

Should take

Hat / Sunglasses / Sunscreen
Swimsuit / Beachtowel
Clothing for 2 days / Comfortable shoes / Jackets

Guide Languages

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Crete to Santorini Ferries

Greece › Greek Ferries › Crete to Santorini Updated: June 29, 2023 By Santorini Dave

Best Hotels in Crete
Where to Stay in Crete
Heraklion Ferry Port Guide
Best Hotels in Santorini
Where To Stay in Santorini
Santorini Ferry Port Guide

The view of the caldera on a Crete to Santorini boat tour . If you only need a one-way ferry ticket then book with FerryHopper.com .

Crete to Santorini FerryHopper.com is the best way to research ferry schedules and book tickets for Crete-Santorini ferries. It’s rare for ferries between Crete and Santorini to sell out but for peace of mind book ferries 1 to 3 months in advance. Best Crete to Santorini Tour: Santorini Full-Day Tour by Boat Best Santorini to Crete Tour: Becuase of the ferry schedule (Crete to Santorini in the morning, Santorini to Crete in the afternoon/evening) there are no day-trip tours from Santorini to Crete. Crete-Santorini Ferries: Most years there are 2 ferries per day from Crete to Santorini and Santorini to Crete. Starting in late March or early April Minoan Lines and SeaJets Ferries begin high speed service from Crete to Santorini (morning sailing) and Santorini to Crete (afternoon sailing). These ferries usually continue to Naxos, Paros, and Mykonos before turning around and returning to Crete. Ferry tickets can be booked in advance at FerryHopper.com . Crete-Santorini Flights: Sky Express offers flights between Crete (Heraklio) and Santorini, though information about their flight schedule can be difficult to find. Use the website’s search function to see if they have a flight that works with your travel schedule. Flights sell out much earlier than ferries, so book as soon as possible if you see a good flight. Crete to Santorini Ferries and Flights: For every ferry or flight from Crete to Santorini there is usually a ferry or flight going in the opposite direction. Ferries generally go from Crete to Santorini in the morning, and then Santorini to Crete in the afternoon.

Day Tours from Crete to Santorini

View of the Santorini caldera on the day-trip tour from Crete .

Santorini Full-Day Tour by Boat – Hotel pick up and drop off for the following towns: Heraklio, Chania, Rethymno, Agios Nikolaos, and Elounda. This tour includes bus to the Crete ferry port, ferry to Santorini, and bus around Santorini and back to the ferry port. All you have to worry about is drinks and food – which are readily available on the boat and at stops within Santorini. Crete to Santorini tours cost about $200. Ferry Schedule: Crete to Santorini

The Heraklio ferry port has multiple ferries to Santorini from late March to early November.

Example Crete to Santorini Ferry Schedule Crete-Santorini ferry schedules, times, and prices on ferryhopper.com . There are multiple daily ferries that run from the Heraklion Port in Crete to Santorini from mid-April through October. The trip will take between 2 and 3 hours on a high-speed ferry. Prices are about €80 for a standard adult ticket. There are no ferries from the Cretan ports of Chania or Agios Nikolaos to Santorini. If you’re traveling from these cities you’ll need to take the bus to Heraklio or Rethymno, both between 1.5 and 2 hours away. FerryHopper is the best way to research ferry schedules and book tickets for Crete-Santorini ferries. Ferries between Crete and Santorini do sometimes sell out. For peace of mind book ferries 2 to 3 months in advance. I recommend Business Class or VIP seating for the added room and more-relaxed environment.

Map showing popular ferry routes from Crete to Athens and nearby islands

Greek ferry schedules can change with little notice . Even after tickets are booked and routes confirmed, ferries can be canceled or changed on short notice and with no good reason. Should this occur, FerryHopper will contact you with notice of any changes to your schedule, and guide you through the re-booking process.

Common Ferries from Crete to Santorini

The Seajets Power Jet from Crete to Santorini.

The Seajets Naxos Jet from Crete to Santorini.

Highspeed ferry from Crete to Santorini.

This the Hellenic Highspeed 7 ferry but it’s nearly identical to the Minoan Lines Santorini Palace ferry that does the Crete to Santorini route.

Where To Pick Up Ferry Tickets in Crete and Santorini If you book tickets in advance online on Ferryhopper.com , you’ll either get an e-ticket (so you won’t need to pick up anything) or you’ll need to collect your paper tickets at least one hour in advance at the port on the day of your departure. Your confirmation email will have more complete information. Flights from Crete to Santorini

Airplane flying from Heraklion to Santorini.

Sky Express has regular flights from Heraklio, Crete to Santorini.

Sky Express , a relatively new airline that is headquartered in Crete, offers many flights between Heraklio and Santorini. Sky Express’ flight schedules can be difficult to access, so use the website’s search function to see if they have a flight that works with your travel schedule. Sky Express offers three different fare tiers, differing in luggage and hand baggage allowances, flight change and cancellation fees, and access to flight lounges and expedited security lines. Note that flights will sell out much earlier than ferries – if you find a flight that works for you, book it as soon as possible. Minoan Air , also based on Crete, offers flights between Crete and Santorini many times a week on their Fokker 50-seat planes. Santorini to Crete – Things To Know Most tours to Santorini leave from the port of Heraklion (a handful every week depart from Rethymno). If you’re staying in Chania or Agios Nikolaos you’ll get hotel pickup to bus you to the port. All tours of Santorini will include visits to Oia. These are the ticket booths at the Heraklio ferry port where most people will pick up ferry tickets that were prebooked on the internet. The white booth is for SeaJets. The red and blue is for Hellenic Seaways. They’re located directly in front of the ferries docked in the port – you can’t miss them. They open about 1.5 hours before the ferry is scheduled to depart. Getting here 40 minutes before departure is what I would recommend. Business class seats on the Hellenic Highspeed. All tickets have a seat number and reserved seat. Economy class seats on the Hellenic Highspeed. All tickets have a seat number and reserved seat. Economy class seats on the Hellenic Highspeed. All tickets have a seat number and reserved seat. Business class seats on the SeaJet. All tickets have a seat number and reserved seat. Economy class seats on the SeaJet ferry. All tickets have a seat number and reserved seat. Luggage storage on the Crete to Santorini ferry. This is below deck on the vehicle level as you enter the ferry. Don’t leave valuables here but large luggage is usually fine. Luggage storage inside a highspeed ferry. This is the main seating area as you enter the ferry. It’s very crowded when boarding and disembarking so be prepared for a little madness – but it all works out. Luggage storage on the Terajet. This is below deck on the vehicle level as you enter the ferry. All ferries have some food available: drinks, sandwiches, beer and alcohol, treats. This is the menu available on the Terajet. Arriving at the Santorini ferry port . Buses and taxis are to the left. Get there quickly as seats and taxis get taken in a hurry. SeaJet ferry in Santorini .

Greek Ferry Guide
The Best Greek Islands
Crete to Athens Ferries
Athens to Crete Ferries
Heraklion (Crete) Ferry Port Guide
Piraeus (Athens) Ferry Port Guide
Crete Travel Guide
Crete – Where to Stay
Crete – Best Hotels
Crete – Best Tours & Things to Do
Crete Travel Maps
Santorini Travel Guide
Santorini – Where to Stay
Santorini – Best Hotels
Santorini – Car Rental
Santorini – Best Tours & Things to Do
Santorini Travel Maps

About Santorini Dave

Hi Dave, We arrive in Athens from Canada at 11:40 am and there is a Sky Express flight at 1:30 pm to Chania. Do you think there would be enough time to make this flight?

If your flight to Athens arrives on time you should be fine. (But there’s no way to guarantee that.)

First of all, thank you so much for running this website! It’s been a lifesaver!

My husband and I are going to be in Greece in late October. We would like to travel from Santorini to Crete via ferry on October 20. Are the schedules just not published yet? I can’t find any available ferries on that date.

There will almost certainly be Santorini-Crete ferries running until late October or early November. They should post these schedules by August.

Hi Dave, Thanks for your super informative site. We are taking a ferry Oct 21 from Heraklion to Santorini. We plan to either rent a car or buggy for our stay on Santorini. Are these available for pickup or arranged pickup at the port or do we need to plan to get a taxi at the port to the car/rental location? Is scheduling a taxi an option or necessary? Any other practical advice is appreciated. Thanks! Alana

I would take the bus from the port to the airport and pick up your car rental there. More info on my Santorini Car Rental page.

Hi Dave, thank you so much for your valuable time and knowledge. I was just wondering, since I could not find any ferry tickets for January 3, from Santorini to Crete – are the timetables not yet published or should I expect them to not be operating during that time? Thanks in advance for any information you could share.

Sorry, there won’t be any Crete-Santorini ferries in January. You’ll have to fly (or ferry) via Athens if you want to visit both.

Hi Dave, We have booked a family trip to Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini. I was thinking of taking a day trip to explore Crete. But I see the ferries from Santorini leave in the afternoon and arrive back in the morning. As all my flights and accommodation are prepaid I can’t change much with respect to that. Are there tour companies from Santorini that offers day tours of Crete? Thanks in advance.

There are tours from Santorini to Crete but they use the same ferries and are bound by the same schedule. So they would all be overnight tours (two nights, actually).

I am travelling from Santorini to Crete on the 11th August by ferry, would you suggest booking in advance and with what ferry company? Also, our hotel is in Chania. Is the public bus service located close to Heraklion port reliable? Or is there any other way to get to Chania that is not too expensive?

You have two legitimate choices: the Minoan Lines ferry to Heraklion (the bus station for Chania is a 5-minute walk across the parking lot of the ferry port). Or you can take the SeaJets at 17:20 to Rethymnon (which is closer to Chania). You’ll save more than an hour on your bus trip. The only downside is that it’s a longer walk to the Rethymnon bus station from the port.

What a wonderfully informative website you have and I am so pleased to have happened upon it.

My husband and I are travelling to Greece on 1st September and arrive Athens at 12:10 on 2nd September local time and then flying directly on to Crete that same afternoon arriving at 4:55 pm. We have 4 nights on Crete then we had planned to ferry to Santorini on 6th for 2 nights before flying back to Athens around midday on the 8th for 2 nights, flying out to Northern Europe early the next morning.

We have just now found that we need to fly out of Athens on 9th which means we lose a day either on Santorini or in Athens – Crete is locked in – and wonder what you suggest please? While we are out in Crete and Santorini it would be helpful to be able to leave the largest of our luggage somewhere safe. Are there lockers at Athens airport and if so would you recommend using them? Or should we try some other place? It would also be helpful to know where and how to find them prior to our arrival if possible please.

Could you please advise your “must see” recommendations for each destination, given our time constraints and also allowing a days rest in Crete following our long haul from NZ.

Any and all comments you have would be very welcome.

Many thanks.

There is luggage storage at the Athens airport. It’s on the arrivals level (turn left as you exit immigration and walk all the way to the end). I’d suggest dropping one night from Athens, not Santorini. In Crete see Knossos and spend plenty of time wandering around Chania. In Santorini do the Oia-Fira hike and at least one tour (boat or winery). In Athens see the Acropolis and walk around the Plaka.

Great website, thanks for your service! Looks like Hellenic Seaways is offering e-tickets this year. Have you used e-tickets yet? Do you know if you can just board or still have to wait at the little booth? Trying to figure out how early we’ll need to get there, figure less time in advance if it’s an e-ticket.

Thanks, Jessica

Typically, if they have a bar code on them then they’re tickets. If not, they’re vouchers and need to be exchanged for tickets.

Hi Dave, Excellent website.

I am travelling from Santorini to Crete (Heraklion) by Hellenic Seaways ferry which reaches Crete at 18:50. Would you suggest staying in Heraklion or Chania. I am looking for a relaxed trip with not too much travelling.

Also, I wanted to know that if I am staying at Chania would taxis be available from the port to hotel in Chania. Also do you recommend taking a car rental from Heraklion port itself which I can drop off at Heraklion airport from where I plan to fly off to Athens.

The posted price for a taxi from Heraklion port to Chania is €174. You might be able to negotiate a slightly lower price. And yes, renting a car at the Heraklion port and returning to Heraklion airport is fine.

Hi Dave, Was looking for a ferry from Heraklion to Santorini on 4th April, but I couldn’t find any ferries. Is there another way to from Crete to Santorini?. Regards Jay

SeaJets was scheduled to start Crete-Santorini on April 4th but they later cancelled those early ferries and delayed the start to April 12. As of now, the earliest ferry service begins on April 6 with Hellenic. Before then you’ll need to fly via Athens.

Hi Dave! Great website and one of the most informative we’ve encountered thus far. We are planning our 1st trip to Greece. The only thing set in stone is that we are flying into Athens on the 13th of June and back home to the states on the 26th. Our plan was to fly into Athens, the immediately board a flight to Chania where we intend on staying. Rent a car and do some guided tours (Samaria Gorge, Rethymnon, Safari 4×4 tour and Knossos). Then take a fast ferry to Santorini and stay there for a few days then ferry over to Naxos for a couple of days and save our last couple of days for Athens so that we are there already for our return flight home. Essentially 3 full days on Crete and leave on the 4th morning to go to Santorini. 2 full days on Santorini and leave on the 3rd day at some point to go to Naxos – stay that night in Naxos, have a full day there then leave sometime the next day to go from Naxos to Athens. Few questions (though we are open to any and all of your thoughts). 1. Is it easy to rent a car once we land in Chania and are we able to return the car closer to Heraklion where we would be leaving on the ferry to Santorini? 2. Would it be wise to stay somewhere in Chania and split up our time elsewhere on Crete given the things we said above that we wanted to do? 3. Any thoughts about Naxos? We were told it’s just as good as Mykonos but cheaper and less crowded.

We are also open to changing the order in which we see the island as well as perhaps shaving time off of one island and adding it to another if you think it’s worth while.

We LOVE culture, food, and site-seeing.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this and provide any feedback – it is much appreciated.

Kindest regards, Danny

1. It’s easy (and common) to rent a car in Chania and dropoff in Heraklion. 2. With only 3 days in Crete I would stay in Chania and not waste time changing hotels. 3. Naxos is wonderful. Yes, a bit like Mykonos but cheaper, less crowded, and no nightlife. Better traditional food too.

Hi Dave, Great website! I am flying to Athens with my wife and 5 year old in August. We plan on 3 days there. We fly home from Heraklion, Crete. My wife really wants to see Santorini, although more people who know the area are steering us towards Crete for a mixture of beaches and culture. Our general plan is to fly from Athens to Santorini and to stay for 1 night (most of 2 days), then take the ferry to Heraklion where we will rent a car and spend most of our time towards the west. We were thinking 3 days in or around Chania and another 3 maybe at a beach location. Or we could spend all 6 days at one location and take day trips. Elafonisi and Balos look wonderful, but may not be right for us. Others have suggested beaches near Rethymnon. I’m open to suggestions, as well as opinions as to whether our itinerary sounds crazy. The only part of our plan that is set in stone is that we fly to Athens and have to leave from Heraklion. Thank you! Brian

I would spend 3 days in Chania and 3 days in either Agios Nikolaos or Elounda. When traveling between the two make a stop at the Knossos archaeological site.

Hi Dave, I am considering booking the two day tour from Héraklion to Santorini in October, as advertised on “ferries.gr”. Is that a reputable company? Any better suggestions? Regards and Thanks, Eric

I’ve never booked through that company but the website has been around for years so it’s not something that’s new (for what that’s worth). Viator has a similar Crete-Santorini 2-day tour and I can vouch for them.

Hi Dave. I am thinking of traveling to Greece in early October. I see your cut-off dates for the ferries is October 12th for this year. However, on the website for SeaJet I see they are running to October 30th. Do you have different information or am I missing something? Specifically, I am looking at the Crete to Santorini and vice versa routes. It is correct that they don’t have daily ferries, but they do have them past the 12th of he month, if I’m viewing it correctly per their website. Any clarity would be appreciated to help me plan. Thanks! Susie

The last ferry (that I can find) is on October 16. (I updated the info above.) But I can’t see anything beyond that on either gtp.gr or the SeaJets online booking app. The only place I see it (and probably where you’re looking) is on the schedule page of SeaJets. It’s not nothing, but it’s less reliable than the ticketing searches so I wouldn’t put a lot of faith in the October 30 cutoff. You can try emailing them at [email protected] . They’re pretty good at replying within 4 to 10 weeks.

Are there any student discounts on tickets from Crete to Santorini and back? Kate

Only students from Greek public universities get the student discount on ferries in Greece.

Are tickets round trip? Or will I need to purchase a ticket from crete to santorini and from santorini to crete? Also what is a good website to look at tours while in Santorini? Cory

All ferry tickets are one-way. You can purchase return tickets but they are simply two one-way tickets – there’s no price difference or any other difference. Getyourguide.com is the best website for booking tours in Santorini (prices, reliability).

I’m about to book the SeaJets tour from Crete to Santorini

I see there’s a small tour, but does the tour include the beaches in Santorini? How much free time do we really have? I want beach time plus view all the sites as well. Lyn Robertson

Not sure what tour you’re booking but with most Crete-Santorini tours you’ll have about 5 to 6 hours of free time on Santorini. You’ll probably have to choose between spending that on the beach or exploring the caldera towns of Fira, Imerovigli, and Oia. It would be hard to do both as the beaches and caldera are on the opposite sides of the island.

Hi – Do you think a day trip from Santorini to Crete is worth it? Akua

No, not worth it and not even doable if you’re referring to taking the public ferries which go to Santorini in the morning and to Crete in the evening. (Of course, anything is possible if you spend enough, and there are private helicopter/private boat tours that could do it.)

Do you have any new information about ferries from Rethymnon to Santorini?

Best regards, Lukas

For the coming year, there is one ferry per week that runs Tuesday from Rethymnon at 8:15am and arrives in Santorini at 10:30am.

Hi Dave, If I want to leave Mykonos and go to another island for 1 night and 1 day, which island should it be. I will be heading to Santorini for 3 days after leaving your suggested place. Glo

Both Paros and Naxos are wonderful islands and the 2 easiest to make ferry connections between Mykonos and Santorini. There are daily direct ferries for the two routes you’ll take.

Dear Dave according to the Hellenic Seaways website it is possible to print web bought tickets or show them on your phone when boarding, is it necessary to pass through the Hellenic booths otherwise? Thanks jacques..

As long as they have a bar code then you can use them to board.

Hi Dave, Just a quick question. I’m trying to buy a ferry ticket (Hellenic Seaways 7 & Seajet) from Herkalion to Santorini on April 9th (one way) but either website is not giving me the option to do so. I see that ferry services commence on the 7th of April. Do you think that is why I can’t buy the tickets ahead of time?

Thanks for your help. Gana Chandratilleke

The first ferry of the year is scheduled for April 11th. This could change but probably not.

Hi Santorini Dave – Love the site. Quick question (and sorry if this was already asked and I overlooked), are their any other ferries from Heraklion to Thira other than the 8:40am and 9:00am? Was wondering if they had any afternoon and/or evening ferries? Joe D.

Sorry, just the morning ferries to Santorini.

Hey Dave, Great website thank you. We have used the information to plan our trip to the Greek Islands to celebrate my daughter’s 18th birthday in April. We will be in Santorini at Easter and would value any ideas you might have to experience an authentic Greek Easter (we live in Australia so imagine it will be different to how we celebrate Easter). I am excited to show my daughter Santorini and to visit again after being there 20 years ago. Jo Ackerley

Easter in Greece is a special time and this year it coincides with the churches of western Christianity on Sunday 16 April. Assuming you have your accommodation booked and sorted there are a few things you need to be aware of about Easter in Greece. The week before ‘Anastasi’, or resurrection at midnight of the 15th is a solemn week where little happens and where very little traditional non-fasting food (meat primarily) is available for consumption. Greeks, even if they don’t fast during the 40 days of Lent will almost always go without during ‘Megali Evdomadha’ (Easter, or Great week). Foreign visitors during this time can feel left out.

Restaurants will be offering fasting food only, or may not even be open at all. Post-Easter is the time traditionally when businesses kick-start the season and get rolling, so you will be riding the lull before the storm during Easter week. Even the normally raucous TV stations tone it down and show only mild or religious programmes and clubs and bars will be timid at best. Each parish church will normally run its own programme and in Santorini most festivities will most likely revolve around the main Metropolitan Orthodox Cathedral in Fira.

That said there are religious happenings to be aware of with one event happening each night in the lead-up to Anastasi. The two that may be of interest to you and your daughter are the ‘Epitafios’ where the bier of the deceased Christ is carried around the streets followed by throngs of people carrying candles. This happens on the evening of (Good) Friday while the Anastasi happens the following night with the appearance of the priest at midnight bearing a lone candle in a sea of otherwise darkness and gives the light to the awaiting crowd. That one single candle light becomes hundreds within a minute and the church service continues. Firework crackers commonly explode all around the church and pandemonium rules for a few minutes.

What follows is the retreat to homes where the fast is broken with tripe soup (!) and whatever the chef of the house has chosen to prepare plus cracking red-dyed eggs. The feasting and eating (and drinking) may go on until the morning. On Easter Sunday families, traditionally roast lamb on the spit, gather to talk and renew ties and then eat and drink some more.

Now this is all well and good if you are Greek and have a home to go to, but it can be tricky for non-Greeks without ties. Some hotels or restaurants may put on post-Anastasi food, or even organise lamb on the spit on the Sunday but it’s not guaranteed so you’ll need to check with your hosts. It’s not difficult to befriend locals who may invite you along to their own celebrations. If you end up with no firm plans Pyrgos is especially delightful over the Easter weekend (visit at night when the town is alight).

One last thing, travelling before and after Easter can be trying as everyone is on the move. Try not to move during those shoulder periods.

Great website!!!! We are taking the Hellenic Seaways boat from Heraklion to Santorini on July 21 at 9:00am.

When do we need to buy the ticket??

You could buy them the day before and have a 98% chance of getting on. That said, I’d probably book online a month in advance just for peace of mind.

When do you think the ferry schedule between Rethymnon and Santorini for the summer will be available?

Thanks, Nathan

I do not think they’ll be any ferries between Rethymnon and Santorini this year. Something could change but it’s getting pretty late and I haven’t heard anything yet. I’d assume for planning purposes that there won’t be anything this year.

Hi Dave! Such an awesome site! Just a couple of questions: 1) We are flying into Chania on Sept 16th, and are thinking to visit Balos beach. Is the best way to get there by ferry? Do they sail at this time of year. Is Balos beach very busy this time of year? 2) We are also going to get a rental car to explore other sites for the 3 nights we are in Crete, is it possible to drop if off in a different location -Heraklion. 3) We are going to get the ferry to Santorini. How often are the sails cancelled at this time of year, just wondering if we should add an extra day in Santorini just in case, we were only planning for 2 nights before flying to Athens. Tracey Kuzniak

1. The best way to get there is via the Cretan Daily Cruises which run until late October each year. Mid-September is still a pretty busy time for Crete, so you may want to book ahead online a few days before your planned trip. The beach gets ‘busy’ as a result of the cruise trippers, so your group will be the crowd of the day.

You can get there by car – an off-road vehicle is recommended – and there are some basic facilities on the beach for the road trippers – but you really don’t get to see the beauty of the place unless you come by cruise boat and the cruse boat really does provide everything. That said, you don’t really get to appreciate the place as in those glamorous overhead drone photos that show Balos Beach from the air, but the cruise trip is by far the better option.

For the cruise you’ll need to get yourself to the starting point at Kissamos Port from Chania and that is about an 45 minutes’ drive. You can alternatively take a KTEL bus from Chania’s bus station that conveniently dovetails into the departure and arrival back of the cruise boat. A taxi will cost you around €42 each way.

2. Yes, most rentals will allow you to drop at the ferry port parking lot in Heraklion – steps from the ferry to Santorini.

3. There are two ferries a day and both leave in the morning. Ferry cancellations are rare in September. Take the Hellenic for a smaller chance of a cancellation.

Hello Dave! Great Information! Question, we would like to travel from Santorini to Crete on November 18. It appears a flight is our only option. It that correct? Any advice for getting a good price on the flight? Any tips? We will be staying in Oia for a few days before traveling from Oia to the airport? Lisa

There is not a lot of choice (or difference) with flights and prices. You’ll fly via Athens, search Kayak.com for the best prices.

Hi Dave Thanks a lot for all the great Infos! For our wedding on May 2nd we are trying to find a good way for our guests to travel to Santorini. We will let them fly to Crete or Athens and need ferry or flights from there, but I can’t find anything end of April (28,29 or 30th of April) Would be very grateful for your help!! Stefanie Thoeny

There will be early morning ferries between 8:30 and 9:30) from Crete to Santorini in late April. Schedule is not out yet but no need to book tickets in advance.

Hi Dave, fantastic work on the website, your tips are so useful! I flew from Canada with my wife and we are currently visiting Crete (very beautiful) I would like to ask you two questions please: 1- how much does parking a car for one week near the Heraklion Ferry would cost? 2- the car rental company (justrentals) surprised us by telling us we could not bring the rental to Santorini… (its all Greece to us!) and would not refund (or deal) the one week period during which we will be in Santorini, does this sound normal around here in Crete? We still have one week in Crete before we take the Hellenic Seaways Ferry to Santorini. Thank you

There is a large parking lot right at the ferry port and it’s pretty cheap (less than 5€ per day). And yes, you generally can’t take rental cars on the ferry.

Hi Dave, We are planning to go to Greece in February. What are the options of going from Crete to Santorini? Is it even advisable to go in this time of the year? Prat

There will be flights and ferries from Athens to Crete, and Athens to Santorini in February but not between Crete and Santorini. You’d have to return to Athens to connect to the other island. February can be grey, cool, and wet on the islands. You certainly would not be swimming. That said, some people love visiting in the off-season when crowds are non-existent and the few restaurants open (on Santorini) are populated by locals. The weather is not great but it’s mild and far better than northern Europe.

Hello Dave, We intend to travel from Heraklion to Santorini on Oct.5th. I have three questions:

How far ahead should one book the ferry? Are there any flying options (can’t afford helicopter!)? What is the best way to go from the ferry dock to Imerovigli?

Many thanks for any advice you can provide, Peter Thomas

1. Book ferry tickets anytime. Actually, you don’t really have to book tickets in advance but most people do for peace of mind. 2. No flights from Crete to Santorini this year in early October. 3. Taxi is the easiest way. Bus is the cheapest (but you’ll need to switch buses in Fira and get the one heading to Oia, then get off at Imerovigli).

I have to say, your website is great. Heep’s of very useful information. You definitely have a big knowledge of Greece. I would like to ask you maybe a silly question but very important for me. I would like to go to Santorini from Crete and I was wondering what is better, to buy a ticket in Greece or buy it online?

Thank you so much in advance.

Cheers, Kasia

Either way is fine. If you were traveling during high season then booking in advance is probably a good idea (if only for peace of mind). If traveling outside of July and August then you could easily show up at the port and buy a ticket.

We’ve just woken up and realise we didn’t set our alarms properly and missed our ferry at 9am!!

We REALLY need to get to santorini today!! How do we do it!?!

It’s only 9.30am now, seems silly that we can’t get there if we want – we’re willing to pay!

Charter a helicopter .

Hey Dave Thanks for the great website. Just a quick note to report issues with SeaJet transfer. Obviously the Crete to Santorini route, in the morning, is rather reliable, but we had a very disappointing experience on the other way, with a 4 to 5 hours delay. The boat departed at 9pm instead of 5, and still arrived later. In the mean time 1/ no excuse or explication or any reliable information by the company or its agent whatever, some of them blaming the 15th of August bank holidays for the delays in the successive ports, nothing about the much slower route and 2/ a very strange feeling about a boat mismanaged : no ac in the economy rooms (but in front an open door to let some see wind come in), no set seats (OK no big deal boat wasn’t full) and everything a little or a lot worn out. Lastly the people in Santorini and some fellow tourists had tales about how this boat (still, the return to Crete route) was always late, and seemed to express a preference for the other company. This also came after a day with no boat sailing due to strong winds and got us to scramble twice for hotel rooms while our Crete bookings were lost. Just to share and to express caution about this particular trip. Feel free not to publish if out of bounds of your own publishing rules. Regards Guillaume Bernard

Yes, I always take (and recommend) Hellenic Seaways over SeaJet whenever there is a choice. That said, the larger the SeaJet (e.g. Tera Jet) the more reliable they are.

Thanks for the feedback.

Is there a later ferry to Santorini from Heraklion than 9am? I am afraid that our bus from Chania at 5am won’t get there in time.

Andreas Kelster

9am is the latest ferry but your bus should get you to Heraklion in time for the ferry. The bus is scheduled to arrive by 8am. Even if it was 30 minutes late you’d still have time to walk from the bus station to the ferry port (about 5 minutes), get your tickets (10 minutes), and get on the ferry with a little time to spare.

Hi! I absolutely love all the details! I’m departing from Heraklion port on July 28 and arrive at Santorini port. Should I buy my tickets in advance? I also would like a ferry where I can walk outside the deck. I do want the fastest route as well. What do you recommend? Are the departing times from Crete to Santorini limited?

Thanks! Mona Lisa Estrada

Yes, I would probably buy tickets in advance through the ferry company websites. There are two: Hellenic Seaways and SeaJet but neither have ferries that will allow you to walk on the decks so you’ll be seated inside. Both ferries leave Heraklion in the morning (before 9am) so there’s little choice on time either.

Is there a problem with rough Seas in the beginning of October?

Nick Nicholas

In particular, no. But anytime can give a pretty bumpy ride on the open seas between Crete and Santorini.

Is there a place to park a car by the ferry? Can you take a rental car on the ferry? Debbie

In Heraklion, yes there is a parking lot right beside the ferry. Car companies are very reluctant to allow their cars to travel to other islands. In theory, you could get their permission but would definitely be a big hassle. Plus, it’s expensive to take a car on the ferry and you need to book well in advance. And then all that for very little benefit. Much easier to just rent a different car once you get to wherever you’re going.

Hi Dave. Excuse my ignorance but we have booked tickets for a return trip from Crete (Heraklion) to Santorini in June. I have printed off what appear to be the tickets. Does this mean I can present them directly at the ferry or do I still need to call at the port ticket office?

Without seeing them I can’t say for sure, but I suspect you’ll have to check in at the ticket office. It’s directly opposite the ferry (it’s a 30 second walk from the kiosk to the ferry) so it won’t be a big deal.

Hi Dave –

Your website is great, thanks for all of the great information on your website, it’s so helpful. I am planning a honeymoon in Greece from May 21 – May 31. We’d like to do 3-4 nights in Santorini and then head to the one of the other islands, and we’re thinking either Crete or Rhodes? Do you have a recommendation between those two? Our criteria are:

– Pretty quiet beach town – Targeted towards couples/adults – Relaxed – Sandy beach if possible – Easy to get to from Santorini

Thanks for any advice! Chris Saxon

Santorini is a great spot to start your trip and May is a great time to visit. You mention Crete or Rhodes as your next destination and you do hint that you may be open to ‘other islands’. Let’s look at the pros and cons of both Rhodes and Crete then at possibly one or two other options that are accessible from Santorini.

From Santorini, Crete is faster and less expensive to get to than Rhodes. Two catamarans run daily between Santorini and Heraklion in Crete leaving Santorini at 17:00 (Sea Jets Consortium) and 17:25 (Hellenic Seaways) respectively arriving in Crete after around 90 minutes. The one-way ticket is €62.00. That leaves you plenty of time to enjoy one final day in Santorini and enjoy dinner in a fine seaside taverna in Crete’s capital, Heraklion. From Santorini to Rhodes it’s a much longer and less frequent ferry ride or a flight via Athens and a connecting flight on to Rhodes. There are plenty of flights during the day but the trip can last between 2 hours and 150 minutes (the 14:30 flight) or 9 hours and and 25 minutes involving an overnight stay in Athens. The ticket price ranges from €116 to €206.

Of the two destinations both Rhodes and Crete meet the kind of criteria that you list, but they are both big islands and vary quite a bit from one end or one side to the other. Of the two, Rhodes is possibly a little more romantic and suitable for a honeymoon – on the proviso that you stay in the exceptionally romantic Old Town of Rhodes. I’d be looking at a cosy boutique hotel with old stone walls and all the mod cons. Avalon Hotel is superb as is the Spirit of the Knights and the Old Town is quite unique. The town beach near the Casino is perfectly sandy and relaxing. Outside of the old Town hotels tend to be less boutique-like and more resorty with infinity pools and your every need pampered to.

Crete is bigger than Rhodes and has a different feel – more rugged, more independent, more mountainous, and culturally the people consider themselves apart from the mainlanders (and quite likely other islanders). It’s a fine destination in its own right and – for honeymooners – can provide just what you are looking for – a touch of luxury, laced with comfort and coziness. Consider one of two possible destinations in Crete: the old world intimacy of Chania’s Old Town, or the new world luxury of Elounda. Both destinations are at opposite ends of this lengthy island. Chania’s Old Town will be more like the Rhodes Old Town experience, while Elounda will give you the lazy, luxurious open feel of the all-in hotel. Beaches are better at Elounda – some hotels have private beaches – while Chania scores relatively low on that feature.

With regards to an alternative destination, a couple come to mind. Just two islands north of Santorini is the archetypically Cycladic island of Paros with just about the right balance of everything: beaches, good food, atmosphere, and top-flight accommodation. Less-touristy and more travel-ly than both Crete and Rhodes, Paros is well connected in terms of transport, has more of an ‘island’ feel and is a perennial favourite with all walk of travellers – and honeymooners.

Here finally is a wildcard that you may not have though of. It’s a bit ‘arty’, popular with Greeks, coy and understated, but meets your criteria. It is Folegandros. Look north west of Santorini and you will see it an almost inconspicuous, Cycladic rock with all the charm that a traditional island can muster. You’d be better served staying in the “Chora” or main settlement up on the cliffs overlooking the cobalt-blue sea, where you can wine and dine in sequestered insouciance and maybe rub shoulders with film directors, football players, or philosophers. One suggestion for a place to stay Fata Morgana high up on the cliffs, but there are plenty more if you look around. For swimming the little beach at Angali (3km) is just fine. Catamaran services link Santorini with Folegandros twice daily.

Can you tell me if Minoen Air are still trading, we would like to us them this year, but have noticed on the web they have suspended services.

I have been trying to email them but they haven’t responded so yes, perhaps they have stopped running.

Hi Dave, First, thank you for creating such an amazing resource in your website. It’s wonderful! Second, I want to warn you that the below is so very specific to my vacation & I want to thank you in advance (and apologize!)

We currently booked a trip to Greece and for the last leg of the trip we’re going from Santorini to Crete on July 7th and flying out from Herkalion on Monday, July 11th. I know you mentioned that there are currently no ferries from Santorini to Rethymno, but we really want to stay in Chania for the entirety of the trip to access all the beaches and activities we’d like to do. I am running into many questions and concerns when figuring out how and when to get to Chania.

For July 7th, the only ferries from Santorini to Herkalion arrive in Crete around 7pm. The only bus to Chania leaves at 9pm. This concerns me because 1. what if the ferry is late? 2. it pretty much wastes the night of the 7th. I heard staying in Herkalion should be avoided, mainly because there’s not much to see/do, but staying the night of the 7th seems like the most viable option. Unless of course, a ferry schedule pops up for Santorini to Rethymno.

Here are a couple questions: 1. Should we rent a car the next morning (the 8th) and drive to Chania? Is it dangerous? 2. Is Herkalion an okay city to stay in for the night? 3. If a new ferry schedule were to be released, where should I check? When’s your best guess on when it would come out? 4. What’s your best advice on what we should do? On one hand, the bus ride on the night of the 7th seems like a good idea because we wouldnt have to drive ourselves, and we can wake up the 8th and are ready to go. On the other hand, not wasting a night traveling and staying in Herkalion seems like a good idea. What do you think?

Thank you, thank you, thank you! Jessica

1. If you needed a rental car for other purposes then yes, rent one, but if it’s only to get to Chania then just take an early bus. Here’s the Heraklion to Chania schedule . Is it dangerous driving a car? No more than in Western Europe. 2. Heraklion is great. There’s a wonderful museum, great restaurants, and Knossos (one of the best historical sites in Greece) is a short drive outside of town. 3. Check Gtp.gr for the most recent ferry schedules. 4. Personally, I would stay in Heraklion for a night and morning and explore its attractions. But you don’t sound too interested in the city so trying to take the last bus of the day is probably what I would recommend. You’ve got a good two hours between ferry and bus so it should work out. The bus is a 5 minute walk from the ferry port.

Hi Dave, we are going to stay in Crete from 24th to 31st March. What would be the quickest way to go to Santorini for a day trip or two? Would there be any possibility of those fast ferries starting earlier than 8th April? Please suggest.

The only way to get from Crete to Santorini in March is a flight via Athens or hiring a private helicopter. One takes a half day of travel each way (so you’d have to stay a night to make it at all worthwhile) and the other is very expensive.

Here I found a one day trip from Crete to Santorini but I don’t understand how much is the transfer from Chania to Agia Marina zone. Or it is not available the transfer? Last year it was 120 euro and it included the excursion in Santorini. Same trip without excursion was 119,6 euro. A little bit strange…. Thenk you, Roxana

You’re right. It doesn’t say anything about a transfer from Chania. They usually do. If you waited to book after you arrive I’m sure you’ll find a tour company in Chania advertising this tour with transfer. Taking the bus is also a possibility. The first one of the day leaves Chania at 5:15 and gets to Heraklion at around 8am. It’s about a 5 minute walk from the bus station to the ferry port in Heraklion.

Hi Dave. Hoping you can advise regarding transportation. We are leaving Crete on May 31 ( Blue Palace ) and will be heading to Santorini Oia ( Atrina Traditional House ). Which port should I buy a ticket from in Crete? Is there only one port in Santorini? Would like to spend most of the day on the 31st in Crete. What would you suggest? thanks.

You’ll leave from Heraklion port and there is only one port in Santorini. Two different ferries leave at 9am from Heraklion and there are no later ferries.

Hello Dave,

A friend and I are traveling to Athens in February. We hope to visit both Crete and Santorini; however, I am not having much luck finding ferries between the two islands. Do you have any ideas for the best route to take in the off-season?

Thank you! Aaron Barton

There are no ferries between Crete and Santorini in February. You’ll need to fly or ferry via Athens.

Thank you for the very informative website and the advice to buy ferry tickets in advance and pick up at the port. We are planning a trip to Crete and Santorini departing on April 8 from Athens to Crete (via air), then a ferry to Santorini on April 11 and back to Athens on April 19 (via air). I don’t see a specific ferry schedule for April, just a comment about mid-April. Do you have an idea when the specific schedule may be released? I may need to change the itinerary and don’t want to make reservations until I see the schedule.

Thanks, Jan

The schedule has not been finalized yet but is currently showing a ferry 7 days a week starting April 8. It’s the Hellenic Highspeed 6 and leaves Heraklion at 9am and gets to Santorini at 10:45am. (It continues to Ios, Paros, and Mykonos.) Not sure when this will be finalized but I personally would feel 98% confident that there’ll be a ferry from Crete to Santorini on your chosen day. (Of course, it could be cancelled for bad weather but that’s a different issue.)

Dear Dave We will spend one week in Crete and 3 days in Santorini in February 16. What should be the best transport way from and to those slands: ferry boat or by air? Thanks Alvaro Avezum

There will be no direct ferries between Crete and Santorini in February. You’ll need to fly or ferry (very long) via Athens.

Paleologos Shipping & Travel Enterprises – you listed them in your above details. Are they and all the other mentioned by you reliable? I mean, if I were to go into their office in Iraklio and pay for a two day trip to Santorini from Iraklio, will they be able to give me the ferry tickets and any other paper I will need for accommodation or do I just have to be at the port and pick them up on the trip day? Artemisa

I’ve used them and think they are reliable. I can’t vouch for them other than a few personal experiences. It’s much easier to pick up tickets at the port the morning you depart. I would book hotels online and not through a travel agent.

Hi Dave. My wife and I are visiting Santorini for 3 nights in June. I see that the Seajet timetable is out. Could you tell me roughly when the Hellenic Seaways timetable will be out please? Thanks.

It should be out the in the New Year.

Firstly thanks so much for this webpage. It is so useful! Myself and my partner are travelling from Santorini to Chania on June 11th (+/- 1 day) and we are trying to figure out the best way to do this. Originally we were thinking of just catching the late ferry from Santorini – Heraklion and then catching the even later bus, but I saw a comment you made in May about catching a ferry from Santorini to Rethymnon but I can’t find any information about this ferry. Is it true that there is a ferry from Santorini to Rethymnon? And if so where can I find the schedule for this ferry? I also take it that is no Santorini to Chania ferries that you might happen to know about? Ideally, we wanted to fly direct from Santorini to Chania but it doesn’t seem that is an option.

Thanks in advance!

The schedule for ferries to Rethymnon is not out yet (probably in January) but there’s a 95% chance that there will be a ferry from Santorini to Rethymnon for the summer. However, there won’t be a Santorini to Chania ferry.

Thanks Dave. That sounds promising at least. Do you know where i would find the ferry schedule from Santorini – Rethymnon so I can keep an eye out for it? Thanks again, Aaron.

GTP.GR has the most recent and best ferry routes and times.

Dave, this blog is so helpful! Do you know which company will have the ferry from Rethymno to Thira in the summer (if it does happen)? Thanks! Jocelyn

If it runs it will be with SeaJets.

Tickets, Prices & Schedules

Ferry Tickets
Ferry routes

Ferry schedules

Is there a ferry from Heraklion to Santorini?

There are weekly crossings from Crete to Santorini all year round. During the summer months, there are up to 4 daily ferry crossings to Santorini from Heraklion. The route is mainly operated by 3 ferry companies : Seajets, Fast Ferries , and Blue Star Ferries .

Please note that ferry timetables are subject to change depending on the season. You can check real-time schedules and book ferry tickets online on Ferryhopper.

What’s the ferry schedule from Heraklion (Crete) to Santorini

The earliest Crete to Santorini ferry departs from Heraklion at 08:00 and arrives at the port of Athinios at around 09:50. The latest ferry from Heraklion usually departs at 22:45 and arrives in Santorini around 01:55.

Ferry Tickets, Offers & Discounts

How much is the ferry from heraklion (crete) to santorini.

The Crete to Santorini ferry price ranges from approximately €16 to €92 . The final ticket cost can be higher or lower depending on discounts, seat type, or vehicle selection.

On Ferryhopper, you can find all available offers for the ferry trip to Santorini from Heraklion (Crete). Take a look at our ferry routes, find great ferry deals and book your ferry tickets on Ferryhopper without hidden fees .

Take advantage of the available discounts and travel by ferry from Heraklion (Crete) to Santorini with lower-cost ferry tickets . The ferry companies offer discounts up to 50% to the following passenger categories :

Children from 5 to 10 years old
Members of large families
Permanent residents of islands (holders of Unique Islander Number)
Students of Greek Public Universities
People with disabilities and their accompanying persons

Note : infants and children up to 5 years travel for free . However, keep in mind that available discounts may vary depending on the company you’re traveling with.

Ferry Route Info

How long is the ferry ride from heraklion to santorini.

The Heraklion - Santorini ferry time is around 2 hr to 4 hr depending on the type of ferry (conventional or high-speed).

Tip : bear in mind that ferry timetables may change. Therefore, make sure to check your departure time before your trip. You can also track your ferry in real time on the Ferryhopper App !

How far is Santorini from Crete?

The distance from the port of Heraklion to the port of Santorini (Athinios) is 63 nautical miles (120 km).

Is there a high-speed ferry from Heraklion to Santorini?

Yes, you can travel with a fast ferry from Heraklion (Crete) to Santorini. The Crete-Santorini ferry route is mainly operated by high-speed ferries lasting about 1 hr 50 min .

Ferry Trip Tips

Useful tips for your ferry trip to santorini from heraklion.

Here are some travel tips for your trip from Heraklion (Crete) to Santorini:

The port of Heraklion can get crowded during the summer so we recommend that you arrive at the port at least 1 hr in advance of your departure to avoid queuing.
Ferry rides can be bumpy during the summer. If you feel seasick you can ask the ferry crew for some aspirin or carry with you anti-nausea pills.
Athinios, the port of Santorini is small and can get very crowded in high season. Check our blog for a helpful guide for the port of Santorini .
If you are planning to stay in Santorini for longer, we recommend that you book accommodation as early as possible (about 3-4 months in advance).
Read our Santorini travel guide for useful information and tips about the island.

How do you get from Heraklion, Crete, to Santorini?

You can get from Crete to Santorini by ferry all year round. During the summer, there are at least 3 ferries per day from the port of Heraklion to Santorini. During the winter, there is usually 1 weekly ferry from Crete to Santorini.

Where in Crete can you get the ferry to Santorini?

The Crete - Santorini ferry departs from the port of Heraklion . It's located about 2 km from the center of the city, close to many shops, restaurants and city landmarks.

To get to the port and catch the ferry from Crete to Santorini, you can take a public bus, taxi or walk. The regional bus station of Heraklion is located 700 m (10 minutes walk) from the port.

Can you do a day trip from Crete to Santorini?

Yes, you can and Santorini is definitely worth a day trip from Crete! Hop on the first ferry from Heraklion and be in Santorini before 10:00 . Enjoy the island’s breathtaking views, walk through its blue-domed churches and get back to Heraklion by evening.

Can I travel on the Heraklion - Santorini ferry with a car?

Yes, you can travel with a vehicle in the majority of the ferries from Heraklion (Crete) to Santorini. Both conventional and high-speed ferries provide the service of vehicle transfer.

The Crete to Santorini ferry cost for your vehicle transfer ranges between €60 to €90 depending on the type of vehicle, the ferry company as well as the season.

Ferry luggage

Ferry companies like Seajets , Fast Ferries , and Blue Star Ferries are usually quite flexible when it comes to luggage size and weight. You can keep your luggage next to you or store your bags and suitcases in the designated luggage area on the ferry to Piraeus.

Good to know : bear in mind that there is no check-in procedure for luggage items.

Tip: each ferry company has its own baggage allowance policy. We recommend that you don’t carry more than 50 kg of luggage to avoid delays due to restricted space in the luggage area.

Some ferries traveling from Crete to Santorini have cabins but the majority of them offer numbered seats .

You can travel with your pet on the Crete - Santorini ferry depending on the company and type of vessel you’ve chosen. Make sure to carry along the necessary certificates, tickets and any pet supplies you may need for your trip.

Book cheap ferry tickets from Heraklion to Santorini

You can book your tickets for the Heraklion to Santorini ferry online on Ferryhopper. On our Map of ferries , you can see all the available ferry connections, compare ferry companies and prices, and book your ferry trip to Santorini with confidence!

The Greek Islands: Mykonos, Santorini & Crete

4.7 out of 5 stars

a woman looking out to sea in mykonos greece

You have up to 60 days to get a full refund

Feel good about putting a tour on the calendar today: Enroll in AutoPay or pay in full when you book, and if you change your mind, you’ll get your money back .†

Soak in the breezy lifestyle and diverse culture of three scene-stealing Greek Islands.

It’s nearly impossible to get a true taste of Greek culture without sampling its flavorful isles. Experience their relaxed lifestyle and meet friendly locals as you discover the character and history unique to each island. Absorb Hellenic heritage in ancient Athens (with a chance to return and explore some more when you stay with us for the Athens extension) before anchoring on the beaches of lively Mykonos. Continue your island-hopping as you cruise on the Aegean Sea to the volcanic shores of Santorini before soaking in Crete’s legendary landscapes.

Your tour package includes

12 nights in handpicked hotels
12 breakfasts
5 dinners with beer or wine
3 sightseeing tours
Expert Tour Director & local guides

Included highlights

Windmills in Mykonos Town
Akrotiri excavations
Village of Pyrgos

An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

Day-by-day itinerary

Board your overnight flight to Athens today.

Welcome to Greece! Meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers at a welcome dinner tonight, served with beer or wine.

Nothing can prepare you for the sheer sense of awe you’ll feel when you come face-to-face with Athens—where ancient architecture and artifacts coexist with modern life. Meet up with your dedicated local guide, who will introduce you to the highlights of this bustling capital.

Pass by the Panathenaic Stadium, built entirely out of marble—the only such stadium in the world.
Continue to Syntagma Square—home to the neoclassical Greek Parliament building—and admire the plaza’s imposing marble steps, fountain, and lush shade trees.
Admire the Arch of Hadrian—built to honor the Roman emperor—and imagine how its Pentelic marble stones were carted more than 11 miles from Mount Pentelikon in 131 A.D.
View the remains of the sixth-century Temple of Zeus and gaze up at its 16 ornate Corinthian columns.
Drive through Plaka. Situated at the foot of the Acropolis, this district is one of the oldest parts of Athens and is known as “the Neighborhood of the Gods” due to the dozens of monuments strewn throughout it.
Set off on a walking tour around the ancient Acropolis—site of the Parthenon, Temple of Athena Nike, and Erechtheion. You may have seen these enduring icons of antiquity in books and films; now, you’re stepping through the work of craftsmen who quarried and honed these marble blocks thousands of years ago.

Opt into the excursion to Cape Sounion today, where the remains of the Temple of Poseidon—dedicated to the Greek god of the sea—offer a perfect vantage point over panoramic views of the Aegean and its island chains.

Alternatively, you can also use your free afternoon in Athens to explore on your own. Head back to the Plaka district or wander through Anafiotika on the northeast slope of the Acropolis. The latter neighborhood dates to the 19th century and is chock-full of charming, whitewashed cottages and vibrantly hued doors, the likes of which you might have seen—or will see soon—on Greece’s Cyclades islands.

Cape Sounion

From $75 per person

Today, opt into an excursion steeped in mythology—a guided tour of the ancient archaeological site of Delphi. Succumb to the mystical ambiance that has captivated visitors for decades as you discover tales of the Oracle of Delphi, who was believed to deliver prophecies from her seat in the now-ruined Temple of Apollo. From the slopes of Mount Parnassus, you’ll also have unfettered views of olive groves, rugged mountains, and the Gulf of Corinth.

Prefer to continue your Athenian adventure on your own? Use your free day in Athens to stroll through Monastiraki, a historic neighborhood anchored by a famous flea market. Navigate its packed streets and see if you can spot any of its Greco-Roman ruins.

From $119 per person

We’re off to the islands! Travel by ferry to Mykonos and join your Tour Director on a walk through Mykonos Town’s labyrinthian streets, bursting with cafes, galleries, and shops.

See the iconic white windmills of Mykonos Town—built as early as the 16th century and originally used to mill wheat and barley—and watch their thatched roofs dance in the sea breeze.
Delight in Little Venice—perched right alongside the Aegean and inspired by its Italian namesake—where colorful, sun-splashed residences seem to melt into the water, their balconies hanging over the sea.
Pass the Church of Panagia Paraportiani, eminently photographed for its Byzantine-era, whitewashed facade and intriguing curves.

Sit down this evening for an included dinner, served with beer or wine.

Choose to spend your free day on Mykonos with a hands-on cooking demonstration. You won’t just get to nibble and sip your way through fresh local fare—you’ll also learn how to make Greek staples like tzatziki yourself. What better way to prolong the magic of your trip than by whipping up a tasty memory at home?

Not joining the excursion? Use your free day in Mykonos to hit the cobblestones. If visiting the island’s famous beach clubs isn’t your speed, head back to Little Venice for a stroll along the Old Harbor; hike down to Armenistis Lighthouse, one of the oldest in Greece; or get lost in Matogianni Street’s shops and galleries and surrender to the soft, salty air on The Island of the Winds.

Mykonos Cooking Demonstration & Lunch

Want to add another Greek island to your list? Add an excursion to legendary Delos for a guided tour of this mostly uninhabited island’s remarkably preserved ruins, sanctuaries, and markets. Peer into its cosmopolitan past and importance as a cultural hub. If history isn’t your thing, Delos’s patch of the Aegean Sea gives you glimpses of scenic coastlines and neighboring islands.

You can also use your free day on Mykonos to hop between the island’s renowned beaches. Relax on golden sands, swim in crystalline waters, or snorkel until you’ve worked up an appetite. Be sure to ask your Tour Director for suggestions on hidden gems and seasonal treats.

Please note: The excursion to Delos will run in the morning only during April and October and may run in the morning or afternoon from May to September.

Delos Cruise & Temple of Apollo

From $125 per person

You’ve seen the photos—now get ready to star in them yourself. Take a ferry to Santorini and enjoy a free afternoon on the island. You can admire the steep cliffs that plunge into the Aegean and the island’s iconic caldera, dotted with whitewashed buildings. Then, eat your way through traditional dishes—like moussaka, a hearty eggplant dish, or tomato fritters—then use your free time to explore unique pebbly beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Sit down for an included dinner this evening, served with beer or wine.

Your guided tour of Santorini will take you from dramatic black-sand beaches to jagged cliff-lined shores and back—a stark contrast to the island’s beloved, blue-domed buildings and sprays of bright fuchsia bougainvillea vines.

Visit the archaeological excavations at Akrotiri, a settlement buried in volcanic ash, where richly pigmented Bronze Age frescoes and other Minoan artifacts survived a devastating volcanic eruption in the 16th century B.C.
Ride to the top of Mount Profitis Ilias for panoramic views of Santorini, neighboring island chains, and the blue waters kissing the horizon.
Stop in small, picturesque Pyrgos, where you’ll weave through the steep streets of this off-the-beaten-path village.

Choose to hop on a catamaran for a steal-your-breath-away dinner cruise starring the cliffside village of Oia—Santorini’s calling card. You can also spend your free afternoon poking around authentic shops and sampling the local wine if you’re craving time to explore on your own.

Santorini Caldera Cruise & Dinner

From $149 per person

Santorini’s nutrient-rich soil lends itself perfectly to growing wine grapes. Get to know the island’s unique vineyards when you choose to join the excursion to a local winery, complete with a tasting and accompanying lunch.

Prefer to spend the day on your own? You can sample even more traditional plates—like octopus or spanakopita—then explore the unique, black-pebbled shores and clear waters of Kamari Beach. End the day with a sunset stop at the lighthouse found on the southern tip of the island.

Please note: For an additional cost, you can book a visit to the village of Oia through your Tour Director. The visit will either take place on the evening of day 10 or the morning of day 11, depending on the ferry schedule.

Greek Wine Tasting & Lunch

From $89 per person

Take a ferry to Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, this afternoon. The birthplace of the ancient Minoan civilization, Crete served as the backdrop for the mythical tales of King Minos, the labyrinth, and the Minotaur. Remnants of Minoan civilization can be found across the island, punctuating a diverse landscape that ranges from lush valleys and dramatic gorges to looming mountains and serene beaches.

Expect to be embraced by the locals’ friendliness—perhaps alongside a shot of raki, a strong digestif made of distilled grape skins that’s offered as a sign of hospitality.

Looking to uncover centuries of cultural diversity? Choose to join the excursion to Chania, a coastal city on Crete’s northwestern shore that has passed between Greek, Venetian, and Ottoman hands through the years. Embark on a walking tour of Chania’s Old Town, a historic quarter tinged by Venetian heritage that also happens to boast a thriving Jewish community.

You can also use your free day to enjoy Cretan cuisine—grilled seafood and local cheeses like mizithra—at one of the island’s many seaside tavernas or stroll along the warm sands of a beach (or three).

Board your bus and cruise past Crete’s olive-covered terrain en route to Heraklion—an ancient port town that was once the hub of the Minoans, Europe’s first civilization. Here, you’ll set off on a guided tour.

Visit the ruins of the Bronze Age palace of Knossos. Part administrative center, part place of worship, it held a special place at the heart of Minoan culture (and was where, according to legend, King Minos imprisoned the Minotaur in the heart of a labyrinth).
See the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, home of the world’s preeminent collection of Minoan art and many artifacts taken from the excavation of Knossos and other dig sites around Crete.

Afterward, fly to Athens and celebrate your trip with your group at a farewell dinner, served with beer or wine.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home or extend your stay to continue exploring Athens. With a history spanning more than 3,400 years, we know you’ll want more time to delve into the Greek capital’s ever-evolving cultural landscape. And if you’re just craving another plateful of syrupy, sweet fried dough—those pillowy loukoumades—we’re right there with you.

Athens has no shortage of incredible restaurants serving Greek and international fare, but there’s nothing like a home-cooked meal with friends and soon-to-be friends. Opt into the dinner excursion tonight and break bread with your local host.

You can also spend your first day in Athens scoping out the National Garden, a serene, green expanse in the heart of the city with ponds and shady paths that cross through ancient ruins. For a less crowded panorama of Athens, head to Mount Lycabettus, where you can hike or take the funicular railway to the top of the hill. Be sure to ask your Tour Director for their recommendations, too!

Athens Home-Hosted Dinner

From $79 per person

It’s your last full day in Athens; let’s make the most of it. Join the optional (but highly recommended) visit to the Corinth Canal. This narrow waterway connects the Gulf of Corinth to the Saronic Gulf and was an important navigational route upon its opening in 1893. While it’s too narrow for modern vessels, its steep limestone walls provide a scenic contrast to the aquamarine waters below. You’ll then continue to the archaeological sites at Epidaurus and Mycenae to walk along some of the best-preserved ancient sites in Greece.

If you choose to spend your free day venturing out on your own, why not take in some of the city’s street art? Wander through neighborhoods like Exarchia or Psiri and check out their colorful graffiti up close. Looking for another vantage point to admire Athens? Head to the Pnyx, a hill where ancient Athenians gathered for assemblies. You’ll get views and a tranquil atmosphere.

Tonight, gather with your fellow travelers to enjoy a farewell drink.

Corinth Canal, Epidaurus & Mycenae

Transfer to the airport for your flight home, souvlaki in hand.

Book for just $99 down

That’s all it takes to secure your spot on tour with AutoPay. Then, pay for your trip in interest-free, monthly installments.†

Overall rating 4.7 out of 5

5 out of 5 stars

Wonderful experience and a great tour director. Perfect about of time to enjoy each location, anything else would have been to short.

Roberto, our tour director, was/is superman in disguise. I don't know how he did it all and always with a smile. He was extremely informative and so much fun! Greece is amazing! The highlights of the trip for me were the fabulous food, turquoise waters, Delphi and the surrounding mountains (Penny, o...

Traveler photos

Hotels, flights & FAQ

This boutique hotel is located in the Kolonaki neighborhood in central Athens. Guests enjoy a screening room, rooftop pool, and spa. Nearby, you’ll fi...

This seaside hotel is located in Mykonos Town. Guests enjoy individually controlled air conditioning, free Wi-Fi. Nearby, you'll find the windmills, M...

This prestigious hotel is located in Santorini's Kamari area. Guests enjoy stylish rooms, outdoor pool, and fitness center. Nearby you'll find Kamari ...

This luxe hotel is located in Heraklion on the island of Crete. Guests enjoy restaurants, the outdoor pool, and a spa. Nearby, you’ll find Lions Squar...

Round-trip flight for your tour
Airport transfers at your destination
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24/7 support from our dedicated service team
Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
Find out more about flights
In order to enter Greece, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
We recommend having at least two blank passport pages for entry stamps.
Beginning in 2025, U.S. and Canadian passport holders must register for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to enter many European countries.
Passport holders from over 60 visa-exempt countries (including the U.S. and Canada) will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to visit 30 European countries. That means that even if you’ve previously traveled to any of these European countries without a visa, starting in 2025, you’ll need to get ETIAS authorization to visit them again. If you’re traveling to multiple countries with this requirement, you only need to complete the form once. All Go Ahead travelers are responsible for obtaining their own ETIAS travel authorization before departure. For more details, please visit our Help Center .
If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact your destination country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code TGI.
Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in and depart from Athens.
Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost if they are arriving or departing on the standard day.
When you arrive in Athens, a Go Ahead representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall with a Go Ahead sign or a sign with your name(s). If you don’t see a representative immediately, please be patient and stay in the arrivals area. They may be assisting another traveler who has also just arrived and will be back shortly.

Physical Activity Level

This is a high physical activity-level tour. You can expect to be on the move on a regular basis throughout the course of the tour.

Tour Pacing

This is a brisk-paced tour. The pace of a tour itinerary considers how often you’ll switch hotels, the amount of planned daily activities, and how you’ll get from place to place. You can expect:

One 1-night stay
Most days full of included activities (more if you add excursions)
Transportation by motor coach, public ferry and commercial flight
Daily bus time varies and can be lengthy

Walking, Terrain & Physical Requirements

Travelers should be prepared to walk 2-3 miles per day- this includes city streets, cobblestones, stairs, and hills.
Stone and marble walkways may be slippery even when dry.
Access to the Acropolis requires travelers to navigate a steep hill including uneven stairs with no railing.
Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance.
Please Note: Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour.

Climate Considerations

In the summer months (June-September), travelers can expect heatwaves with temperatures consistently above 90F.
In July and August, Greece experiences Meltemi, or strong winds, which can make for rough ferry rides.

Physical Activity & Tour Pace Questions

Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special mobility or luggage handling assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group enjoys a smooth and informative journey, and they can’t be relied on to provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
This tour moves at a reasonable pace to avoid missing scheduled stops. The rest of the group cannot miss any scheduled activities because of the needs of an individual.
Due to the pace and physical activity level of this tour, mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers will be difficult to use and are not recommended. Please notify Go Ahead Tours before your departure if you plan to bring these on tour with you.
If you have mobility concerns or tour pace questions, please visit our Help Center or send a message to our Customer Experience Team. We’re here to help!
This tour includes various modes of transportation, including ferries, planes, and motor coaches. Some modes of transportation will have raised platforms or steps and often not provide access to ramps or lifts.
Ferry rides between Athens and Mykonos, Mykonos and Santorini, and Santorini and Crete, as well as a flight from Heraklion to Athens, are included in the price of your tour.
All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
The ferries you will be traveling in during your tour are large boats with airline-style seating. Boarding the ferry involves quickly walking up and down steep ramps, navigating crowds with other travelers and vehicles, while managing all of your luggage.
Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches and other transfers, which include ferries and flights.
Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights. Please note that your included on-tour flights may have more restrictive baggage limits.
Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
Travelers must manage their own luggage throughout tour as porters are not guaranteed. This includes at hotels, airports, and boarding ferries.
Travelers need to be prepared to manage their own luggage during ferry transfers; this includes carrying your luggage up/down the boarding ramp, and managing crowded spaces with other people and motor vehicles.
We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
It is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).
We recommend packing a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastic waste.
Travelers who experience motion sickness should take the proper precautions for the ferry crosssings.
We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
We recommend packing your Insurance Card (from your primary insurance provider) in your carry on luggage.
Go Ahead handpicks every hotel to strike the balance of comfort, location, and local charm.
Accommodations are typically three and four star hotels.All accommodations include a private bathroom.
Most rooms will include a safe for valuables.
Your hotels will have Wifi, but it may be limited to common areas.
Elevators in hotels are not guaranteed.
Some hotels on this tour require travelers to walk with their luggage a few blocks as buses cannot drop travelers off right out front.
Please be advised that the strength of the air conditioning in European hotels/buildings is often not as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada.
We cannot guarantee that your hotel accommodations will have laundry services or facilities. We recommend checking directly with the hotel once they are confirmed about 30 days prior to departure.
Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date.
Excursions are available for purchase prior to departure, and most excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour directly through your mobile app for an additional $10 USD.
We recommend purchasing excursions at least 3 days prior to your tour departure. Please note some excursions have advance booking deadlines. Check your tour itinerary for more information to ensure you don’t miss the deadline to add them.
Optional excursions may be canceled on tour due to reasons like low enrollment, weather or unexpected closures. If an excursion you signed up for is canceled by Go Ahead Tours, you will be refunded the full cost of the excursion. Please note it may take up to 60 days for your refund to be processed.
Your Tour Director may offer their own optional excursions which can only be purchased on tour via cash (in local currency).
At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website at cdc.gov .
If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies, please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
Most of our itineraries include headsets used during certain sightseeing tours so travelers can hear their guides or Tour Director. If you use an assisted listening device, such as a hearing aid or cochlear implant, please visit our Help Center for more information or contact our customer experience team. Please note that at this time not all our destinations offer headsets due to supplier limitations.
Please note that codeine (commonly found in headache medications) is banned in Greece, and you may face prosecution if you bring it into the country.
Take proper care with sun exposure, as the sun can be especially strong in some of the regions on this tour.
The water is safe to drink throughout your tour unless posted otherwise.
Travelers prone to seasickness should note that this tour includes boat rides
This tour includes 5 dinners. Included meals may be plated set menus, buffet or family style depending on the location. Dinners include one glass of beer, wine, or soft drink and water, coffee and tea.
Breakfast each morning is also included at the hotel and is typically buffet style with hot and cold options.
Greece’s warm climate ensures a constant supply of fresh, high-quality fruits, and vegetables. Salads served with aromatic olive oil, feta cheese, and oregano are plentiful. Simple grilled fish and meat are integral to Greek cuisine, as well as squid and octopus. Don't miss the spinach and cheese pies, called spanakopita.
At the conclusion of your tour, it is customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
We recommend tipping the equivalent of $10USD to $12USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
Tips can only be paid in cash.
The cost of porterage is included in your tour price, and it is not necessary to tip baggage handlers.
You will use the euro on this tour.
Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
Plan ahead and bring cash to tip your tour director, local guides, and bus drivers. We also recommend keeping coins in the local currency on hand, as some public bathrooms may charge a fee for use.
To ensure you feel prepared before traveling on tour, we strongly recommend you download the EF Go Ahead Tours mobile app. The app is free and provides important deadlines, entry requirements, your detailed itinerary, packing tips and more. You can also connect with fellow travelers through the chat feature in the app.
Wifi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
There is no Wifi on any of the motor coaches.
Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
Your Tour Director will be leading your group throughout your journey. You will have the same Tour Director throughout your tour.
The role of the Tour Director is not only to provide information and context on the destinations you visit, but also to confirm services, coordinate inclusions, prepare each days’ activities and support travelers while on tour. As such, they must focus on the success of the group, and cannot provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
One of the benefits of traveling with EF Go Ahead Tours is our on tour emergency support team.
Our extensive network of offices around the world, and our integration of ISO 31000: Risk Management Guidelines, help our dedicated 24/7 Emergency Service teams anticipate and address on-tour challenges in a flexible and iterative way.
This team supports travelers and Tour Directors using a combination of extensive training, simulations, incident response planning, and decades of experience to help manage emergencies if they arise, ranging from personal health concerns or injuries to major world events.
As needed, On Tour Support can facilitate additional support for travelers on tour, arrange assistance from outside specialists, and liaise with local and international authorities to help solve on-the-ground issues. In addition, the team is dedicated to supporting and facilitating communication between travelers and families in the event of an emergency while on the road or at home.
Greece is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and 7 hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET).
When it’s noon in New York, it’s 7pm on tour.
When you travel with EF Go Ahead Tours, you’ll make a positive impact on the places you visit, and the people and animals you meet along the way. That’s because our three core Responsible Travel commitments—protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting animal welfare—are at the heart of every tour we offer.
Travel, when done responsibly, can make an enormous socio-economic impact to communities. To maximize your impact, eat at locally owned restaurants and shop at local businesses. Ask your Tour Director to point out restaurants they recommend.
Prepare for your trip: be aware of the monetary norms such as tipping and negotiating in a market, learn about the destination’s forms of etiquette, and take some time to learn a few words in the local language.
When interacting with locals, make sure to ask people for permission before you take their picture, and approach cultural differences with empathy and an open mind.
EF Go Ahead Tours encourages our travelers to limit their waste while on the road, especially single use plastics. You can avoid single use plastics by packing your own toiletries, using electronic documents, and bringing a reusable water bottle and shopping bag. If you need to use plastics or paper, please recycle.
Environment: On this tour, we recommend the use of a reusable water bottle, as the local drinking water is safe for travelers. Your Tour Director can provide additional guidance on local water standards. Make sure to bring a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastics.

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4.6 out of 5 stars

You can skip the planning for these 7 affordable bucket list family travel adventures

A s enriching as family vacations can be, there's no question they're stressful to plan. And if you want to show your kids the world, planning family travel adventures to bucket-list destinations like Ireland, Alaska, or America's national parks can also be a bit daunting. The good news is there may be a better alternative to consider—letting someone else do all the planning on a guided tour.

I've participated in numerous guided group tours with my family, and they've been among the most hassle-tree times together we've ever had. Letting trip planners and seasoned guides take care of tedious details and time-consuming logistics removes many of the difficulties that come with traveling, especially with kids.

While a trip to the destination of your dreams is never going to be a cheap family vacation , group travel tours can save you time, money, and a lot of stress. The end result? Family travel adventures that run smoothly and don't come with any costly surprises. Here are 15 value-packed guided tours for your family’s 2024 adventures.

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HASSLE-FREE VACATIONS: 11 best guided tour companies for family tours

1. Iceland with National Geographic Family Journeys

G Adventures

Renowned small group travel tour company G Adventures has teamed up with National Geographic to create escorted family travel itineraries that take full advantage of NatGeo’s expertise in wildlife, storytelling, and photography. The company’s eight-day Iceland Family Journey delves into the subarctic island nation’s unique geological features in an experiential way, including hiking on the edge of a volcanic crater and riding Icelandic horses near a waterfall.

CLOSER TO HOME: 25 best family vacation spots in the USA

The tour company's trip leaders are trained to engage young guests ages seven to 17, and the participant limit is capped at 20. These guided family travel adventures start at $4,999 per adult (there’s a $200 discount for kids ages seven to 12) for 2024 and they include transportation within Iceland, accommodations, daily breakfast, three lunches, and one dinner.

2. Highlights of Ireland

Brendan Vacations

The wild Atlantic Ocean, misty cliffs, and impossibly green countryside are a few of the reasons why the Emerald Island's mystical beauty has inspired poets for centuries. From Dublin's cosmopolitan charm to hanging by your heels to kiss the Blarney Stone in Cork, Brendan Vacations are experts when it comes to Celtic travel, and its Shamrocks and Leprechauns tour is a favorite with families.

NO PASSPORT NEEDED: 21 best all-inclusive resorts in the U.S. for families

Highlights include going behind the scenes where Game of Thrones was filmed and marveling at the spectacular Cliffs of Moher. Interactive experiences, such as tea with a family on their sheep farm and dressing up like medieval archers as you learn to aim a bow and arrow, make a lasting impression.

There’s a maximum of 45 participants aged five and older on this 10-day trip in 2024. Prices start at $3,083 and children ages five to 17 receive a 10 percent discount. Transportation within Ireland, accommodations, and 15 meals are included. A travel director accompanies you throughout, with local specialists enriching the journey.

3. Canadian Rockies from Banff to Jasper

Backroads’ guided family travel adventures are a hit with active travelers who crave communion with nature. On Backroads’ Banff to Jasper Multi-Adventure Family Tour , you’ll join a small group of families as you bike, hike, and paddle your way across the magnificent Canadian Rockies. Float down the Athabasca River, soak in sweeping vistas at Icefields Parkway, and walk on a glacier.

ACTIVE SENIORS: 9 best tour companies for travelers over 50: Road Scholar, Globus, more

This trip has a maximum of 26 guests and is recommended for ages nine and older. Trip leaders receive specialized training to ensure that they’re well-equipped to engage youngsters. The six-day trip costs $3,999 per person in 2024. Kids 17 and under receive a 10 percent discount when staying in a single or double occupancy room; the child discount is increased to 20 percent if there are three or more people staying in the same room. Lodging, activities, daily breakfast, six lunches, four dinners, and snacks are included.

4. Grand Alaskan Adventure

If your family loves the Great Outdoors, Alaska is the vacation of a lifetime. Cosmos offers guided group tours to "America’s Last Frontier" that present value without skimping on quality. The Grand Alaskan Adventure is an appealing choice with a balanced blend of group activities and free time.

SEE THE WORLD: 11 guided tour companies that offer trips around the world

Starting and finishing in Anchorage, you'll cross Prince William Sound and glimpse otters, seals, and whales. A ride on the Alaska Railroad will delight fans of train travel, while two days spent in Denali National Park’s wilderness is an immersion in majestic beauty. Keep your eyes open for bears, moose, and caribou as you travel the Denali Highway across Alaska’s lightly treaded interior.

In 2024, this seven-day guided family travel adventure starts at $2,139 and includes some meals, accommodations, and activities. Children as young as five are welcome, and those ages five to 17 receive a 10 percent discount. The average number of participants is 36.

5. Taste of Portugal

Globus

With alluring beaches, ancient villages, and sophisticated cities, it’s no wonder Portugal is trending in 2024. The Taste of Portugal with Madeira guided group itinerary from Globus visits cosmopolitan Lisbon, Porto’s cobbled streets, and the semi-tropical island of Madeira, with its natural rock-pools and unique wicker basket toboggan ride.

FAMILY TRAVEL ADVENTURES: 28 best places to go with kids this year

This 11-day escorted trip starts at $3,309 including hotels, nine breakfast, and three dinners. Kids as young as five may participate and those between ages five and 17 receive a 10 percent discount. The average group size is 36 guests.

6. New Zealand Family Travel Adventure

Austin Adventures

Headquartered in New Zealand, guided tour company Austin Adventures is an expert when it comes to showcasing this country’s natural assets. Energetic families who want an intimate group experience will be pleased with the New Zealand Family Vacation itinerary. Starting and finishing in Christchurch, you'll visit a wildlife preserve with resident koalas, wallabies, kiwi, and ancient tuatara (a rare reptile); hike to glacial lakes; and kayak and float down a rose-lined gorge.

FAR-FLUNG ADVENTURES: Bora Bora with kids? These French Polynesia family resorts belong on your vacation bucket list

Children six and older are welcome on this 13-day trip, which costs $5,499 per adult and $4,999 per child 12 years and under. Lodging, activities, and almost all meals are part of the deal. The maximum group size is 14 people plus two guides.

7. The Greek Islands of Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete

EF Go Ahead Tours

Get acquainted with a trifecta of Greek islands on The Greek Islands: Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete from EF Go Ahead Tours . Absorb ancient Hellenic heritage in Athens before arriving in lively Mykonos for a dip in its crystal-clear water. Cruise to Santorini, where volcanic black sand beaches are juxtaposed with bright white and sea blue houses. Then it's on to Crete with its trail of historic treasures, from palaces to archaeological ruins.

TROPICAL BLISS: 7 best tropical vacation spots for families

This 14-day family travel adventure has a maximum of 30 participants and starts at $4,019 in 2024. It includes hotels, daily breakfast, five dinners, a dedicated tour director, and local guides along the way. Children age six and older are welcome, though they don't receive a discount.

Affordable bucket list family travel adventures where someone else does all the planning originally appeared on FamilyVacationist.com .

More from FamilyVacationist:

6 best Hawaii all-inclusive resorts for families
8 best Bahamas all-inclusive resorts for families
6 best-value all-inclusive resorts for families

FamilyVacationist.com and TourScoop.com are owned and operated by Vacationist Media LLC. Using the FamilyVacationist travel recommendation methodology , we review and select family vacation ideas , family vacation spots , all-inclusive family resorts , and classic family vacations for all ages. TourScoop covers guided group tours and tour operators , tour operator reviews , tour itinerary reviews and travel gear recommendations . The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: You can skip the planning for these 7 affordable bucket list family travel adventures

Explor the Canadian Rockies with Backroads.

Top Things to Do in Elektrostal, Russia - Elektrostal Must-See Attractions

Things to do in elektrostal.

5.0 of 5 bubbles
4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
Good for a Rainy Day
Good for Kids
Good for Big Groups
Adventurous
Budget-friendly
Hidden Gems
Good for Couples
Honeymoon spot
Good for Adrenaline Seekers
Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Electrostal History and Art Museum

2. Statue of Lenin

3. Park of Culture and Leisure

4. museum and exhibition center.

5. Museum of Labor Glory

7. Galereya Kino

8. viki cinema, 9. smokygrove.

10. Gandikap

11. papa lounge bar, 12. karaoke bar.

Statue of Lenin
Electrostal History and Art Museum
Park of Culture and Leisure
Museum and Exhibition Center
Museum of Labor Glory

Moscow tours, business travel to moscow, tour guide service, interpreting service

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Moscow tours, business travel to Moscow, tour guide service, interpreting service

We are here to navigate you through Moscow and beyond. We specialize in private and customer-tailored tours for individuals and groups.

Tour options include:

Moscow tours in 1 day/2days/3days (Red Square tour, Kremlin tour, metro tour, panoramic city tour, etc);
Moscow panoramic city tour / night Moscow by legendary retro cars ;
Layover tours in Moscow;
Moscow cultural heritage tours, Moscow themed tours;
Russian home hosted visits (visit to the Russian dacha);
Russian culinary classes;
Moscow-St.Peterburg tour package. Two Russian capitals in one week;
Moscow-St.Petersburg educational tours for students and children;
Russian towns of the Golden Ring (Sergiev Posad, Suzdal, Vladimir); Trips out of Moscow
Shore excursions (Moscow/St.Petersburg)
Russian honeymoon tours, photo walks in Moscow;
Moscow tours for children
Christmas time in Moscow;
AK-47 shooting tour, tank T-34 ride, segway tour, fishing in Moscow region.
Group Tours ( offers for travel agencies)

We are officially endorsed by Moscow Government to guide in most iconic tourist attractions of Russia’s capital such as Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral, museums of the Moscow Kremlin, the Tretyakov Art Gallery, etc.

We love our city and are ready to share with you our in-depth knowledge of Moscow, this old but very dynamic and amazing city. We will be glad to provide context and fun in equal measure opening up your eyes to Russian history, culture and art.

We know how to make the most of your time while you are here and will be delighted to turn your stay in Moscow into a life experience.

Why book with us?

We love what we do.
We highly value responsibility and individual approach.
Our friendly booking service will help plan your itinerary according to your wishes. We are very flexible and design the tours individually for every customer.
We are officially recognized by Moscow Government.
Our training, qualifications, experience and personality will ensure that your visit to Moscow is a great success.

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Interpreting and assistance at exhibitions and conferences, our garage ( vehicles+drivers), where to stay in moscow, what and where to eat in moscow, visa support, learning and discovery, our partners (trips to st.petersburg).

What can you buy in Crete at a price of a Moscow 2-room apartment?

The real estate in Crete, like in all Greece, is appreciated by foreign customers for many reasons: incredible beauty of nature, perfect sea, developed infrastructure of the Mediterranean state, healthy food, beautiful, spacious accommodation, tranquility and a measured lifestyle. However, it is the Greek real estate market that suffered most from the global financial crisis, and has not yet recovered from its consequences. According to the Bank of Greece, the real estate in Greece was 30-50% cheaper in 2017 than during its peak level of 2008.

Many experts and international portals on real estate called the last year a “turning point” for the Greek market. Agents felt a growing interest from investors, and many of the customers took the opportunity to purchase facilities at reduced prices. For the first time in the last eight years in Hellas, there has been an increase in demand for real estate from local and foreign customers. The Greek property market has prospects. Experts predict growing of housing prices in Greece in the middle of the first half of 2018.

The price per square meter in Greece is lower than in most European countries: in many areas it does not exceed 1 thousand Euros. There is another argument in favor of Greece – an opportunity to obtain a European residence permit when buying a property worth 250 thousand Euros.

In Greece, you can buy both inexpensive apartments at a minimal cost of 50 thousand Euros and luxury villas on the coast at a minimal cost of 1 million Euros. The price is strongly affected by their location and nearness to the sea, as well as by the level of infrastructure, and transport accessibility. In addition, villas on the islands are usually 20-30% more expensive than on the mainland; and traditionally elite real estate is in Mykonos and Santorini, where houses will cost 50% more than the national average. Based on these criteria, the islands of Crete and Corfu are the most popular among foreign real estate customers, including the capital of Athens and the second largest city of Thessaloniki.

If you recently sold or plan to sell your Moscow apartment and plan to buy a property in a warm part of Europe, then it’s worth looking closely to Crete. People usually bay there a second house for recreation where spend several months a year.

Crete is the most southern part of Europe, the most popular and large island in the whole of Greece. It has a well-developed infrastructure, hospitable local people, beautiful weather, a lot of attractions and entertainments. Its climate is a temperate Mediterranean: hot and dry summer, as well as a mild, warm, but sometimes rainy winter. You can confidently say that the weather there is much softer than on the mainland. On the island, there are international airports, and several ferryboats come daily from Athens.

The main buyers of real estate in Crete are foreigners from Eastern Europe, including Russians, there are Germans, French and British. Apartments on these islands can be bought at a price ranging from 50 thousand to 150 thousand Euros (3.5 million – 10.5 million rubles). Townhouses are already more expensive, their initial price is 100-150 thousand Euros (7-10.5 million rubles).

On Crete you can afford to buy a real estate with a budget of a Moscow 2-room apartment’s price: 100 thousand Euros is initial price for a decent apartment or a small cottage without repairs. For 120 thousand – 140 thousand Euros you can buy a housing of a better quality, but there are not so many good offers at this price.

We change a Moscow 2-room apartment to a Cretan one. According to Tranio (an international real estate broker), a square meter of an apartment in Crete costs from 650 up to 4,000 Euros. Throughout the entire country, the maintenance of an apartment costs from 3 up to 5 Euros per month and square meter. The purchase tax is 3%. For example, the cost of a square meter in Heraklion, the capital of the island, is an average of 1150 Euros. At the price of the Moscow 2-room apartment, you can buy in Heraklion a three-room apartment of 90 square meters, but the sea will not be very close. On the market, there are also offers almost twice cheaper. For example, there is an offer to buy a two-room apartment of 67 sq. m. in Heraklion for 76 thousand Euros (5.1 million rubles).

It is a question of profitability. What profit can I get from leasing of real estate on Crete? Certainly, it will be a small one. Profitability from leasing is approximately the same on the islands and on the mainland. On islands, housing is rented during the hot season – 6 months in 95% of cases. The rest of the time the object can be empty, and the average annual load will be about 50%. For comparison, in Athens apartments are rented cheaper, but the demand for housing is there all year round. True, some experts on foreign real estate believe that the yield from leasing is on the islands higher than on the mainland of Greece, linking it primarily to the cost of rent and increasing length of the holiday season.

The article uses materials from the site https://rugr.gr/obwestvo/

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The R&K Guide To Moscow

The World Cup is upon us, but you could argue that it’s already a relic from another era, a time when Putin was looking for peaceable engagement with the West, before he annexed Crimea and unleashed his trolls on the world. But if ordinary Russians are supposed to play the part of pariah, they haven’t been told. It has been a long time since Moscow was this pleasant to visit. The city center is safe, sanitized, ready for your visit. Yes, the calm is a sign of an increasingly efficient autocracy. But we’ve known Moscow through many iterations, and for the casual visitor, this is one of the best yet. (Visit our St. Petersburg guide here.)

How To Do Moscow

Quick hits what to eat, quick hits what to drink, quick hits what to see, features from moscow, more city guides, r&k insider.

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COMMENTS

SANTORINI FROM CRETE
One day trip to Santorini from Crete. The unique opportunity to visit one of the most beautiful islands in the world! Our comfortable bus will pick you up from your hotel and bring to the port of Heraklion. There we will embark on the high-speed boat and begin our journey to Santorini. On arrival in Athinios port, we will get on the bus and ...
SANTORINI One Day Cruises from Crete
The boats from Crete to Santorini depart only from Heraklion & Rethymnon ports. All our excursions include transfers to/from Crete port, transfers in Santorini, and Santorini tours (Oia, Fira, Kamari, and the famous Santorini volcano). Pick one of the following excursions that suit you best! FREE CANCELLATION if you cancel your excursion at ...
Full-Day Santorini Island Trip from Crete 2024
Take a day out from Crete to visit Santorini on this day trip. Board a boat to this famous volcanic island, known for its sea-filled caldera (crater) and black cliffs. On arrival, enjoy a caldera cruise to admire the whitewashed houses perched high on the cliffs, and take an island tour to stroll along the clifftops and visit Thira and Oia. Boat transfers, transport on Santorini, and pickup ...
Santorini from Crete, Day Trips and Cruises
Santorini from Crete. Our tour Collection. Santorini, often referred to as Thira, is a picturesque and enchanting island nestled in the Aegean Sea. It forms part of the Cyclades archipelago in Greece. Famous for its breathtaking sunsets, whitewashed buildings with blue domes, and crystal-clear waters. Santorini is a dream destination for ...
Crete to Santorini Island
Crete to Santorini day schedule: BUS transfer from various locations in Hersonissos, Malia, Stalis, Analipsi, Anissaras, Gouves, or the starting point at Heraklion port. 08:30 Departure from Heraklion to Santorini - With the luxurious and fast Santa Irini. 10:25: Arrival in Santorini Athinios.
Santorini Day Tour From Heraklion 2024
Full-Day Trip to Santorini island by Boat from Agios Nikolaos. from $229.46. Crete, Greece. Santorini 1 Day Cruise and Tour from Heraklion Port in Crete. 1. from $183.57. Crete, Greece. Balos and Gramvousa island shared group Sailing Cruise & Lunch. from $196.68.
Santorini Island Full-Day Tour from Crete
Visit Oia, Imerovigli, and Fira and walk along the breathtaking cliffs of the Santorini caldera. Enjoy a guided tour of the island as well as free time to explore at your leisure. Take in the best of Santorini Island, famous for its amazing sunsets. Embark on a lovely cruise from either the Rethymnon or Heraklion port to Santorini Island.
THE BEST Day Trips from Crete to Santorini
7. Full-Day Trip to Santorini island by Boat from Agios Nikolaos. Experience the clifftop villages looking the Aegean on a guided day trip to Santorini.Transfer from Ag Nikolaos to a luxury…. 8. Heraklion: Day Trip to Santorini by Boat with Oia & Fira.
From Heraklion: Santorini Full-Day Tour by Boat
Full description. Visit Santorini on this full day-trip from the island of Crete. After pick-up from your hotel, head to the harbor and begin your sightseeing boat tour on the Cretan Sea. Upon arrival, see the white houses of Fira that lie high above the edge of the crater, and decide whether you would like to spend more time on this volcanic ...
2024 Full-Day Santorini Island Trip from Crete
Visit and tour the Cycladic island of Santorini on a day trip from Crete. Hassle-free way to see the caldera, black cliffs, and main towns. Cruise the caldera, visit Thira and Oia; and admire the clifftop views. Relax with return boat trip and pickup and drop-off from select Crete hotels. See itinerary.
Heraklion, Crete to Santorini 2-Day Trip 2024
Soak up the sun and Santorini hotspots on this 2-day trip from Crete. Feel the sea breeze on a SuperFerry to Santorini and visit Oia, a charming, historic town clinging to Santorini's cliffs with your guide. On day two, venture out with some free time in the morning, before exploring the island's volcano and unwinding in the famous hot springs. Your trip will conclude with transportation ...
Santorini Tour from Crete
Santorini Tour from Crete Highlights: - Leaving Crete, from Heraklion Port we cruise along the Aegean Sea with a super high speed ferry boat. - Explore the highlights of Santorini, on a guided tour, by bus, for about 6 hours. - Visit Oia, the most famous place on Santorini island. A postcard like scenic town, and be amazed by the views of ...
Crete to Santorini Day Trip (2024): options + tips
Travel from Crete to Santorini - ferry ride. If you organized yourself or book an tour, you will have to take a ferry from Crete to Santorini. So here is what it looks like. Crete to Santorini Ferry companies and departures. There are 2 main companies operating high speed catamaran ferries from Crete to Santorini (book Greek ferries here):
How To Get From CRETE TO SANTORINI (2024 UPDATE)
There are no ferries to Santorini from Chania or Agios Nikolaos. The slow ferry from Crete to Santorini takes approx. 3.5 hours to arrive (Superferries) - check timetables here. The quick ferry (it's actually a catamaran) from Crete to Santorini takes about 2 hours to arrive (Champion Jet 2) - check timetables here.
2 Days Trip to Santorini from Crete
Boat trip: 2 hours. 2nd stop: Port Athinios, of Santorini. Arrival on Santorini after about 2h boat trip. Embarkation on the buses for the guided tour. Bus Drive to Oia: 40 minutes. 3rd stop:Oia - 1 hour 45 minutes. Visit the beautiful blue and white village built on the cliffs of Santorini, providing amazing views of the volcanic Caldera.
Crete to Santorini
Best Santorini to Crete Tour: Becuase of the ferry schedule (Crete to Santorini in the morning, Santorini to Crete in the afternoon/evening) there are no day-trip tours from Santorini to Crete. Crete-Santorini Ferries: Most years there are 2 ferries per day from Crete to Santorini and Santorini to Crete. Starting in late March or early April ...
Heraklion-Santorini Ferry, Tickets & Schedules
The Crete - Santorini ferry departs from the port of Heraklion. It's located about 2 km from the center of the city, close to many shops, restaurants and city landmarks. To get to the port and catch the ferry from Crete to Santorini, you can take a public bus, taxi or walk. The regional bus station of Heraklion is located 700 m (10 minutes walk ...
The Greek Islands: Crete & Santorini
From $99 per person. View details. Heraklion 1 night. Day 6: Transfer to Heraklion & sightseeing tour. Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch. Board your bus and cruise past Crete's olive-covered landscapes en route to Heraklion—an ancient port town that was once the hub of the Minoans, Europe's first civilization.
The Greek Islands: Mykonos, Santorini & Crete
Plitvice | 2 nights. Zagreb | 1 night. Ljubljana | 2 nights. From $3,759 $3,609*. View tour. Soak in the breezy lifestyle and diverse culture of three scene-stealing Greek Islands: Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete. View the trip!
You can skip the planning for these 7 affordable bucket list ...
Get acquainted with a trifecta of Greek islands on The Greek Islands: Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete from EF Go Ahead Tours. Absorb ancient Hellenic heritage in Athens before arriving in lively ...
THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Elektrostal (Updated 2024)
SeaJets Prestwich Forest Park Mold Market Blossom Trail Ness Cove Playa De Las Americas Birdland Southwold Lighthouse 65 Queen's Gate, Baden-Powell House St. Spyridon First Beach Adults Only New Orleans Ghost, True Crime, Voodoo and Vampire Walking Tour Private Tasting of Olive Oil in Córdoba Small-Group Golden Circle Tour and Secret Lagoon ...
Moscow Navigator
We specialize in private and customer-tailored tours for individuals and groups. Moscow Tours. Business trips to Moscow. Eco-tours, hikings in Moscow region. Trips to the towns of the Golden Ring of Russia. MoscowNavigator International Travel Club. St. Petersburg tours. Tour options include: Moscow tours in 1 day/2days/3days (Red Square tour ...
What can you buy in Crete at a price of a Moscow 2-room apartment
The real estate in Crete, like in all Greece, is appreciated by foreign customers for many reasons: incredible beauty of nature, perfect sea, developed infrastructure of the Mediterranean state, healthy food, beautiful, spacious accommodation, tranquility and a measured lifestyle. However, it is the Greek real estate market that suffered most from the global financial crisis, […]
Moscow Guide
01.21 Things to Know Before You Go to Moscow. 02.Walking Tour: From the Arbat to the Kremlin. 03.The R&K Guide to the Moscow Metro. 04.The Perfect Dish: The Moscow Burrata. 05.Getting Online. 06.Shitty But We Love It: Cheburechnaya Druzhba.