June 13, 2025
The journey between the stunning volcanic island of Thira (Santorini) and Heraklion, the vibrant capital of Crete, is one of the most popular routes in the Greek islands. Whether you're island hopping or planning a dedicated visit to Crete after experiencing Santorini's famous caldera views, this route offers reliable transportation options. While flights connect these destinations, the ferry journey provides a more scenic and authentic Greek island experience. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about travelling from Santorini to Heraklion, with detailed information on ferry services, port facilities, and what to expect upon arrival in Heraklion.
How to get from Thira (Santorini) to Heraklion: Flights and Ferries
When planning your journey from Santorini to Heraklion, you have two main transportation options: ferry or flight. Each offers distinct advantages depending on your travel preferences, budget, and schedule.
By air, the flight between Santorini and Heraklion is quite short, typically lasting less than an hour. However, when you factor in check-in times, security procedures, and potential delays, the actual door-to-door time commitment can be significantly longer. Flights operate seasonally with more frequent connections during the peak summer months.
The ferry journey represents the more popular and often more convenient option. Covering approximately 68 miles (109.5 km) across the Aegean Sea, ferries connect these two important Greek destinations regularly. The average sailing time is around 1 hour and 42 minutes, making it a relatively quick sea journey that doesn't consume an entire day of your holiday.
In terms of cost comparison, ferry services typically offer better value, especially if you're travelling with family or in a group. While flight prices can fluctuate dramatically based on season and booking time, ferry fares remain more stable, with an average ticket price of around £219 for the fastest services.
The ferry experience also offers the unique advantage of spectacular views of the Greek islands, the opportunity to move around freely during your journey, and the convenience of arriving directly into the heart of Heraklion rather than at an airport outside the city.
Taking the ferry from Thira (Santorini) to Heraklion
You can take a ferry from Thira (Santorini) to Heraklion. Ferries sail in around 1 hour and 42 minutes with about 1 sailing a day. The fastest ferry sails in around 1 hour and 35 minutes and is provided by SeaJets. Ferry prices can range with the fastest service by SeaJets costing around £219. Departures start as early as 00:20, with the last departure from Santorini to Heraklion at 23:50.
SeaJets operates the fastest connection on this route with their modern high-speed vessels. These ferries are equipped with comfortable seating areas, cafés serving snacks and beverages, and outdoor deck spaces where you can enjoy the magnificent views of the Aegean Sea. The journey with SeaJets takes approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes, making it the quickest way to travel between these two popular Greek destinations.
While daily sailings are available, it's worth noting that the schedule includes approximately 5 weekly departures, with around 24 sailings per month. This frequency varies seasonally, with more options available during the peak summer months when tourist demand is highest.
Onboard amenities vary by vessel but typically include comfortable seating areas, cafés or restaurants, duty-free shops on larger ferries, and outdoor deck space for enjoying the sea air and spectacular views. Most ferries operating this route offer air-conditioned indoor seating, making your journey comfortable regardless of the weather conditions.
We recommend booking your ferry tickets in advance, especially if you're travelling during the high season (June through September) or during Greek holiday periods. Advance booking not only secures your spot but often provides access to early booking discounts.
Navigating the Ports
Departure Port (Thira/Santorini)
Santorini's main port is Athinios, located on the western side of the island approximately 8 km from Fira, the island's capital. This busy port handles most of the conventional and high-speed ferries connecting Santorini to other Greek islands.
To reach the port, you have several options. Taxis are readily available throughout the island and will take you directly to the port area, though be prepared for higher fares during peak season. Public buses run regularly from Fira to the port, offering an economical alternative. If you've rented a car, there is parking available near the port, though spaces can be limited during busy periods.
The port itself features basic amenities including a waiting area, café, ticket offices for various ferry companies, and restroom facilities. It's worth noting that Athinios port is built into a steep cliff, with facilities spread across different levels connected by a winding road. If you have mobility issues or heavy luggage, allow extra time to navigate the port.
We recommend arriving at least 45 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for parking or drop-off, ticket collection if necessary, and boarding procedures.
Arrival Port (Heraklion)
Heraklion Port is conveniently located adjacent to the city centre, making it extremely accessible upon arrival. The port is a major transportation hub for Crete, handling numerous ferry connections to the Greek mainland and other islands.
Upon disembarking, you'll find yourself within walking distance of many central Heraklion attractions. The famous Koules Fortress stands right at the harbour entrance, while the bustling city centre is approximately a 10-15 minute walk from the port.
For transportation from the port, taxis are usually waiting when ferries arrive. The city's bus station is about a 15-minute walk from the port, offering connections to other parts of Crete including popular destinations like Knossos, Chania, and various beach resorts. If you've arranged a rental car, several agencies have offices near the port or can arrange port pickup.
Port facilities include tourist information points, cafés, snack bars, ATMs, and shops. The port area connects seamlessly with the city's promenade, lined with restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy your first meal in Crete while overlooking the harbour.
Day Trip Possibilities
A day trip from Santorini to Heraklion is technically possible but would require careful planning and an early start. With the ferry journey taking approximately 1 hour and 42 minutes each way, you could potentially have around 6-8 hours to explore Heraklion, depending on the ferry schedule.
The earliest departure from Santorini is at 00:20, which isn't practical for a day trip. However, during the summer season, there are typically morning departures that would get you to Heraklion by mid-morning. You would need to check the latest schedule as sailing times can vary seasonally.
For a successful day trip, we recommend focusing your Heraklion visit on the absolute must-sees: the spectacular Archaeological Museum housing the world's finest Minoan artifacts, and potentially a quick visit to the Palace of Knossos located just outside the city. Both attractions provide fascinating insights into one of the world's oldest civilisations.
The proximity of Heraklion's port to its city centre works in favour of day-trippers, as you won't waste precious time commuting into town. Many of the city's highlights, including the Venetian fortress, historic centre, and main shopping streets, are within walking distance of the port.
However, we generally recommend at least an overnight stay in Heraklion to truly appreciate what the city and surrounding area have to offer. With only 5 weekly sailings (approximately 24 monthly), ferry schedules may not align perfectly for convenient day trips. An overnight stay allows you to experience Heraklion's excellent restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and gives you time to visit Knossos without rushing.
Things to Do in Heraklion
Heraklion offers a fascinating blend of ancient history, Venetian architecture, and modern Greek culture. Here are the top five attractions you shouldn't miss:
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Housing the most impressive collection of Minoan artifacts in the world, this museum is essential for understanding Crete's remarkable ancient civilisation. The museum showcases treasures from Knossos and other Minoan sites, including the famous Snake Goddess figurines, delicate gold jewellery, and the enigmatic Phaistos Disc. Open daily except Tuesdays from 8:00 to 20:00 in summer (shorter hours in winter).
Palace of Knossos
Located just 5km south of Heraklion, this partially reconstructed Bronze Age palace complex was the ceremonial and political centre of Minoan civilisation. Associated with the legend of the Minotaur's labyrinth, Knossos offers a glimpse into Europe's oldest advanced civilisation. The site features remarkable frescoes, grand staircases, and the famous throne room. Open daily from 8:00 to 20:00 in summer (shorter hours in winter).
Koules Fortress
This imposing Venetian fortress guards Heraklion's harbour and offers excellent views of the city and sea. Built in the early 16th century, it has served various defensive purposes throughout history. Today, its massive stone walls, atmospheric interior chambers, and exhibition spaces make for an interesting visit. Open daily except Tuesdays, typically from 8:30 to 15:00.
Historical Museum of Crete
This well-curated museum traces Crete's history from early Christian times through the Byzantine, Venetian, and Turkish periods to modern day. Highlights include El Greco's only painting in Crete, reconstructions of traditional Cretan homes, and exhibits on the Battle of Crete during World War II. Open Monday to Saturday from 9:00 to 17:00 (shorter hours in winter).
25th of August Street & Morosini Fountain
The heart of Heraklion's historic centre, this pedestrianised street leads from the port to the impressive Venetian Morosini Fountain (also known as the Lions Fountain) in Eleftheriou Venizelou Square. The area is perfect for strolling, shopping, and people-watching, with numerous cafés, restaurants, and shops lining the street and surrounding squares.
Heraklion's Neighbourhoods
The Old Town, enclosed within Venetian walls, forms the historic heart of Heraklion and contains most major attractions. Its narrow streets, historic buildings, and central squares like Lions Square (Plateia Eleftheriou Venizelou) and Fountain Square create a charming atmosphere for exploration.
For shopping, head to Daedalou Street, the city's main commercial thoroughfare, lined with fashion boutiques, souvenir shops, and jewellery stores. The pedestrianised 1866 Street hosts the city's public market, where you can find local products, spices, and traditional Cretan foods.
The waterfront area offers a more modern face of Heraklion, with its marina, seaside promenade, and fish restaurants. It's perfect for an evening stroll or sunset dinner overlooking the Mediterranean.
For a taste of local life, explore the neighbourhoods of Agia Triada and Lakkos, which offer a more authentic glimpse into everyday Cretan life, with traditional tavernas, small churches, and local cafés frequented by residents rather than tourists.
Weather in Heraklion
Heraklion enjoys a Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and mild, relatively wet winters. Summer temperatures typically range from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F) between June and September, with July and August being the hottest months. These peak summer months see practically no rainfall and endless sunshine, making them ideal for beach activities and exploration, though they also bring the largest crowds.
Spring (April to May) and autumn (October to November) offer pleasantly warm temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). These shoulder seasons provide excellent conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities without the intense heat or crowds of summer.
Winter in Heraklion (December to March) is mild compared to northern Europe, with temperatures typically between 10°C and 16°C (50°F to 61°F). This is the rainiest season, with December and January seeing the most precipitation. While not ideal for swimming, winter offers a quieter, more authentic experience of the city and significantly lower prices.
Regarding ferry operations, weather conditions can occasionally affect sailings during the winter months when strong winds and rough seas are more common in the Aegean. During such periods, ferry cancellations or delays may occur, particularly for high-speed services which are more susceptible to weather disruptions. Summer generally sees very reliable ferry services with minimal weather-related interruptions.
Cost of Visiting Heraklion
Heraklion offers good value compared to many European destinations, though prices are higher than in some other parts of Greece, particularly during the peak summer season.
For budget travellers, a daily allowance of £40-60 per person can cover basic accommodation in a hostel or budget hotel, meals at inexpensive tavernas, public transportation, and entry to one major attraction. Street food options like souvlaki (around £3-4) provide affordable and delicious meals.
Mid-range travellers should budget approximately £80-120 per day, which allows for comfortable accommodation, meals at good-quality restaurants, and multiple attraction entries. A meal at a mid-range taverna typically costs £15-25 per person, while a quality hotel room starts at around £60-80 per night.
For those seeking luxury, expect to spend £150+ daily for high-end hotels, fine dining, and premium experiences. Luxury accommodations in or near the city centre can range from £120-300+ per night.
Additional costs to consider include attraction entry fees (Archaeological Museum: approximately £10, Knossos: approximately £15), local bus fares (around £1.50 per journey within the city), and taxis (approximately £5-10 for trips within Heraklion).
Money-saving tips include purchasing a combined ticket for the Archaeological Museum and Knossos, eating where locals dine rather than in tourist-centred areas, and considering accommodation slightly outside the city centre for better rates.
Best Time to Visit Heraklion
The ideal time to visit Heraklion largely depends on your preferences regarding weather, crowds, and activities. Each season offers distinct advantages and considerations.
Peak season (June to August) delivers reliably hot, sunny weather perfect for combining cultural sightseeing with beach activities. During these months, you'll find the most frequent ferry connections from Santorini, making travel planning easier. However, this period also brings larger crowds at major attractions, higher prices, and sometimes uncomfortably hot temperatures for extensive sightseeing.
The shoulder seasons of late April to May and September to mid-October represent perhaps the ideal balance for most visitors. During these periods, you'll enjoy warm, pleasant temperatures (20-25°C/68-77°F) perfect for exploring, significantly fewer crowds at major sites like Knossos, and somewhat lower prices. Ferry services still operate regularly, though with slightly reduced frequency compared to peak summer.
Winter visits (November to March) offer a completely different experience of Heraklion. With fewer tourists, you'll see the authentic, everyday life of this working Greek city. Winter visitors can enjoy major attractions without crowds and find significantly reduced accommodation rates. However, some restaurants and facilities may be closed, particularly in January and February, and ferry connections become less frequent.
For cultural enthusiasts, timing your visit to coincide with local festivals can enhance your experience. The Heraklion Summer Festival (July-September) features concerts, theatre performances, and cultural events, while Easter celebrations in spring showcase traditional Greek Orthodox customs and processions.
For the optimal balance of good weather, reasonable prices, and manageable crowds, we recommend visiting in late May/early June or mid/late September when you can enjoy the best of Heraklion without the peak season drawbacks.
Accommodation Options in Heraklion
Arriving in Heraklion after your ferry journey from Santorini, you'll find a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. The city offers everything from luxurious beachfront resorts to affordable city-centre hotels and hostels.
Where to Stay
For budget travellers, the area around the Old Town offers several good-value guesthouses and hostels, with prices starting from around £30 per night. Solo travellers will appreciate the social atmosphere of hostels like Intra Muros and Heraklion Youth Hostel.
Couples might prefer the boutique hotels scattered throughout the historical centre, offering charming rooms with character from £60-£90 per night. For families, the coastal areas east of the city centre provide family-friendly accommodations with pools and easy beach access, typically ranging from £80-£150 per night depending on the season.
If you're planning to explore Crete extensively, consider staying near the ferry port for convenience, especially if you have an early departure scheduled.
Getting Around Heraklion
Heraklion offers several convenient transport options to help you explore the city and the island of Crete.
Public Transport
The local bus network is efficient and affordable, with routes connecting the port, airport, city centre, and major attractions. A single urban ticket costs approximately £1.50, making it an economical choice for travellers.
Taxis are readily available throughout Heraklion and operate on metres. For convenience, you can also use ride-hailing apps that operate in the city.
If you plan to venture beyond Heraklion to explore Crete's stunning beaches and historical sites, renting a car is highly recommended. Numerous rental agencies operate in the city centre and at the airport, with prices starting from around £30 per day.
The compact nature of Heraklion's historical centre makes walking an excellent option for sightseeing within the city. Many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within easy walking distance of each other.
Plan Your Island-Hopping Adventure
Travelling between Santorini and Heraklion by ferry offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the beauty of the Aegean Sea while enjoying comfortable amenities onboard. With SeaJets providing the fastest crossing at just 1 hour and 35 minutes, you can easily fit this journey into your Greek island-hopping itinerary.
Remember that this popular route operates year-round with approximately 24 sailings per month, though it's always wise to book in advance, especially during the summer high season when demand peaks. At around £219 for the fastest service, the ferry represents good value considering the experience and views you'll enjoy.
Whether you're planning a day trip or a longer stay, the Santorini to Heraklion ferry connection makes it simple to combine these two magnificent Greek destinations in one unforgettable journey. Ready to experience the magic of Greek island hopping? Book your ferry tickets today and prepare for an adventure across the sparkling Aegean waters.