Santorini is one of Greece’s most iconic destinations, famous for its dramatic caldera views, whitewashed villages, and unforgettable sunsets. If you’re staying in Chania, Crete, you may be wondering how to get from Chania to Santorini.
Travelers have three main options: flying via Athens, taking a ferry from Heraklion, or joining an organized day tour from either Chania or Heraklion. Below, we’ll compare travel times, approximate costs, seasonal availability, and the benefits of each option to help you choose the best way to travel from Chania to Santorini.
Option 1: Fly from Chania to Santorini via Athens
Flying is generally the fastest and most reliable way to travel from Chania to Santorini. Since there are typically no direct flights between the two destinations, the journey involves a connection in Athens.
How it Works
- Fly from Chania Airport (CHQ) to Athens International Airport (ATH).
- Connect to a flight from Athens to Santorini Airport (JTR).
Travel Time
- Chania to Athens: approximately 50 minutes
- Connection in Athens: 1–3 hours
- Athens to Santorini: approximately 45–55 minutes
- Total travel time: 3–5 hours
Approximate Cost
- Low season: €80–€150 per person
- Peak season: €150–€350+ per person
- Prices vary depending on availability, booking window, and travel season.
Seasonal Availability
Flights between Chania and Athens operate throughout the year, making this the most dependable option during every season.
Why Stay in Athens?
Instead of simply changing planes, consider spending a night or two in Athens before continuing to Santorini.
Highlights include:
- The Acropolis and Parthenon
- The Acropolis Museum
- Plaka and Monastiraki neighborhoods
- Rooftop dining with Acropolis views
- Vibrant nightlife and authentic Greek cuisine
- This turns a simple transfer into a unique mainland-and-islands journey, allowing you to experience both Greece’s historic capital and its world-famous islands.
Recommended Athens Tours
Ferry from Heraklion to Santorini
For many travelers, taking a ferry is the classic Greek island travel experience. Since ferries to Santorini usually depart from Heraklion, you’ll first need to travel across Crete from Chania.
How it Works
- Travel from Chania to Heraklion by bus, rental car, or private transfer.
- Board a ferry from Heraklion Port to Santorini.
Travel Time
- Chania to Heraklion: approximately 2–2.5 hours
- Ferry crossing: approximately 1.5–2.5 hours
- Total travel time: 4–5 hours
Approximate Cost
- Chania to Heraklion bus: €15–€20
- Ferry ticket: €20–€90
- Total estimated cost: €35–€110 per person
Seasonal Availability
Ferry services between Heraklion and Santorini are most frequent from April through October. During the summer months, multiple departures may operate daily. Ferry schedules are more limited during winter and can occasionally be affected by weather conditions.
Why Stay in Heraklion?
Rather than heading straight to Santorini, many visitors choose to spend time exploring Heraklion and the surrounding region.
Popular attractions include:
- The Palace of Knossos
- Heraklion Archaeological Museum
- The Venetian Harbor
- Traditional Cretan tavernas
- Local wineries and culinary experiences
Recommended Heraklion Tours
Tours to Santorini from Chania or Heraklion
If you’d prefer to visit Santorini without organizing flights, ferries, or overnight stays, several operators offer full-day excursions from both Chania and Heraklion. These tours are especially popular among visitors staying in Crete who want to experience Santorini in a single day.
How it Works
Depending on the tour, you may visit famous locations such as Oia, Fira, and other scenic viewpoints before returning to Crete the same evening.
Travel Time
Since these are full-day excursions, travelers should expect:
- Early morning departure
- Ferry transfer to Santorini
- Several hours of sightseeing on the island
- Evening return to Crete
- Total duration: approximately 12–16 hours
Approximate Cost
- Typically €150–€250 per person
- Prices depend on the departure location, ferry type, and whether guided sightseeing is included.
Seasonal Availability
Most day tours operate between April and October, when ferry connections are frequent, and weather conditions are favorable.
Availability is highest during the summer season, while winter departures are generally not available.
Crete to Santorini Tours
Peak Season Travel Tips
The busiest tourism season in Greece runs from July to August, attracting the largest crowds. During peak season:
- Flight prices increase significantly.
- Ferry tickets can sell out in advance.
- Day tours often reach capacity, especially during July and August.
For a better balance of good weather, availability, and value, consider traveling in June, September, or October.
