Getting from Chania to Santorini

If you are heading to Santorini from Chania you are making your way from the most intimate of Crete's three main cities to the most iconic island in Greece, a relatively short distance to the northeast. It has caldera views, volcanic beaches and the ancient Minoan site of Akrotiri preserved under volcanic ash.

Take the ferry

There is a seasonal direct ferry from Chania to Santorini running in summer on the Seajets high speed route, taking around 2 hours 20 minutes and running 2 times a week. It is one of the most convenient sea connections between western Crete and the southern Cyclades and avoids going through Athens entirely. Alternatively take the overnight ferry from Chania to Piraeus and then the Piraeus to Santorini ferry, which runs up to 9 daily departures in summer.

Getting there by air

Santorini has an international airport with daily connections from Athens. Chania has an international airport with connections from Athens. Flying from Chania to Athens and then Athens to Santorini takes around 45 to 55 minutes on the second leg. Total journey time is around 4 to 5 hours. In Greece, airlines do not operate direct inter island flights.

Your best option

Take the seasonal direct ferry from Chania to Santorini when the schedule works for your dates. At around 2 hours 20 minutes it is one of the most enjoyable and time efficient connections between western Crete and the southern Cyclades. If the timing does not align, fly from Chania to Athens and then fly to Santorini. Book well ahead in July and August as Santorini flight spaces fill up fast. If you are traveling with a car, take the overnight ferry from Chania to Piraeus and board the conventional Piraeus to Santorini ferry, which takes your vehicle directly to Athinios port.