Thira Santorini Port (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Thira Santorini Port?
What makes it 63% Kids-Friendly: Kids often love the five-minute cable-car ride and donkey option, but 588 slippery steps and the lack of play zones or child toilets reduce convenience and safety.
Positives:
- Fast transfer: Cable car whisks family up in minutes, saving tired legs.
- Comfortable waiting: Indoor lounge offers space to rest, free Wi-Fi and clean seating.
Challenges:
- Limited outdoor shade: Covered seating provides little sun protection during midday heat.
- Steep nearby paths: Stone steps and narrow lanes can tire kids and require close supervision.
What is Thira Santorini Port?
- A deep-water caldera harbor nestled within Santorini’s volcanic cliffs at Athinios
- The island’s chief ferry and cargo terminal connecting Santorini with Piraeus and neighboring Cyclades islands
- A modern maritime complex featuring multiple quays, vehicle ramps and a passenger terminal integrated into the rugged caldera setting
What is so special about Thira Santorini Port for with kids?
- Scenic cable car ride offers quick, fun transfer.
- Air-conditioned waiting area with free Wi-Fi for kids.
- Port cafés and vending machines cover basic snack needs.
- Options for donkey rides add novelty for children.
- Bus and private transfers available for onward travel.
Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours
Why 2–3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to ride the cable car, explore port facilities, grab a snack, and catch transport without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Thira Santorini Port
Cable Car to Fira:
Take the 3–5 minute cable car ride up the cliffs to Fira.
Tip: Arrive early to avoid lines and let kids sit at the front for the best views.
Donkey Ride Up:
Enjoy a one-way donkey ride along the zig-zag steps to Fira.
Tip: Supervise children closely and consider animal welfare before booking.
Indoor Waiting Area:
Use the air-conditioned lounge with free Wi-Fi and seating.
Tip: Let kids play on a tablet or read quietly while resting between transfers.
Grab Port Snacks:
Stop at cafés and vending machines outside the terminal.
Tip: Ask for high chairs and buy bottled water (€1–3) to keep kids hydrated.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Thira Santorini Port
- Visit early: Arrive before 10:00 to avoid cruise-ship crowds and long lines.
- Pre-book private transfer: Reserve a car if you have a stroller to skip bus stairs.
- Pack light snacks: Bring small treats to keep kids happy during waits.
Reviews of Thira Santorini Port
Sean Winders
4.5 starts if I could… Crowded port and VERY SLOW loading process, but the actual cruise very nice (with a basic seat). Comfortable ride and relatively short trip (to Crete) that felt more like onboard a plane than a boat - zero sea sickness issues whatsoever. Departing process a bit quicker and fine, which was nice after loading took SO long. Finding transportation pretty easy once of the boat....
Irene Eng
This is one of two ports in Santorini for cruise ships to tender their passengers from their ships to shore. There is nothing around it, except for the extreamly winding and narrow upward road. So, the transfer from the tender boat to the bus takes just a minute or two.
Ann Turman
Drive carefully and NOT FAST if arriving by hired car as a tourist, since the road is insanely dangerous, straight drop down the mountain with no safety railing (very Greek). Efficient bus service from/to Fira, despite high-season tourism all couple hundred travelers were able to fit into a bus (with luggage) within 10 minutes after disembarking.
Monik Nyrén
Always busy, but they have a wonderful logistical system going on. Love this port, especially the road down to it, amazing!
Gautam Nayak
Small port for both cruise ships as well as ferries. Also used for day trips to Nea Kameni and Thirassia. No proper signage indicating arrivals and departures. Just a basic jetty area with one or two structures.
When is the best time to visit Thira Santorini Port (Santorini, Greece)?
In summer, use shaded areas and drink plenty of water. In shoulder seasons expect cooler winds and fewer café hours.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Cable car round-trip for family | EUR 60 |
| Snacks & drinks at port cafés | EUR 20 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 80 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Thira Santorini Port
Address: Órmos Athiniós 847 00, Greece
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