Santorini (Thira) Getting there & around

Getting around

Bus & tram

Bus

In summer buses leave Fira every half-hour for Oia (€1.20), Monolithos (€1.20), Kamari (€1.20) and Perissa (€1.90). There are less-frequent buses to Exo Gonia (€1.20), Perivolos (€1.90) and Vlyhada (€2). In summer the last regular bus to Fira from Oia leaves at 11.20pm.

Buses leave Fira, Kamari and Perissa for the port of Athinios (€1.60, 30 minutes) 1½ hours before most ferry departures. Buses for Fira meet all ferries, even late at night. It is wise to check port departures well in advance.

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Car & motorcycle

A car is the best way to explore the island during high season, when buses are intolerably overcrowded and you’re lucky to get on one at all. Be very patient and cautious when driving – the narrow roads, especially in Fira, can be a nightmare. Note that Oia has no petrol station, the nearest being just outside Fira.

Two very good local rental outfits are Damigos Rent a Car (22860 22048, 6979968192) and for scooters, Zerbakis (22860 33329, 6944531992).

Cable car & donkey

A cable car (22860 22977; M Nomikou; every 20min 7am-10pm, to 9pm winter) hums smoothly between Fira and the small port below, known as Fira Skala. One-way tickets per adult cost €4, and €2 per child; luggage is €2. You can make a more leisurely upward trip by donkey (tickets cost €4).

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Local transport

Taxi

If you’re after a taxi (22860 23951/2555), there’s a stand in the main square. A taxi from the port of Athinios to Fira costs €10, and a trip from Fira to Oia is also €10. Both cost €12 if you call ahead by telephone. If you miss the last bus from Oia to Fira, three or four people can bargain for a shared taxi for about €12.

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