Cable Car, Santorini Island – Transportation

Transportation in Santorini Island Cable Car

Whether you’re visiting Santorini Island by cruise ship or just want a spectacular view, the cable car ride from the Fira harbor up to the town of Fira is a five-minute ride that is well worth it. The only alternatives are a donkey ride or a very steep 20 minute walk.

Riding up the Cliff

The most common use of the cable car is by tourists who have arrived to Santorini Island via cruise ship. Tourists disembark at the Port of Fira and line up to ride the cable car up the cliff face. The wait time to get into a car is known to be an hour or more. Only about six passengers are allowed in each car at one time, although the total car system is said to accommodate 1200 passengers per hour. The system is Austrian-made and was a gift to the Santorini Island communities by a wealthy ship owner. The cost to ride is about four euros per person.

Riding Down the Ciff

All the same facts are true of a ride down the cliff as they are of a ride up: the cost is about four euros and if there is a long line, the wait can be an hour or more. However, travelers should be warned that there are many steps to reach the ticket office before being able to buy a pass. The altitude is also of concern for people who are afraid of heights. Although the ride only takes about five minutes, it is steep and can be alarming for those unaccustomed to such heights.

Alternatives

If you would rather avoid the cable car ride, you can also walk up or down the cliff on 580 steps. Alternatively, you can pay five euros for a mule ride.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about transportation in Santorini Island.