How to Get from Santorini to Mykonos
Complete 2026 guide — compare flights, buses, driving, and guided tours with prices, durations, and insider tips.
The fastest way from Santorini to Mykonos is a 2-2.5 hour high-speed ferry, with fares from €45-70. This is by far the most popular option. Conventional ferries take 3-4 hours from €30. Flights are available but less common and not always practical (30 minutes in the air but with airport logistics). The distance is 115 km (71 miles) across the central Cyclades.
| Transport | Duration | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚢 By High-Speed Ferry | 2–2.5 hours | €45–€70 | Most travelers — the standard way to make this trip |
| ⛴️ By Conventional Ferry | 3–4 hours | €30–€42 | Budget travelers and those who get seasick |
| ✈️ By Flight (Seasonal) | 30 minutes (+ airport time) | €80–€200 | Those with tight schedules and bigger budgets |
By High-Speed Ferry
SeaJets, Minoan Lines, and Golden Star Ferries operate high-speed catamarans and ferries between Santorini (Athinios port) and Mykonos (New Port). In summer, there are 3-5 daily departures. The route passes through or near Paros and Naxos. This is one of the most popular inter-island ferry routes in Greece.
- The standard and most practical option
- Multiple daily departures in summer
- Scenic journey through the Cycladic islands
- Arrive directly in Mykonos port, close to town
- Can be rough during Meltemi wind season (July-August)
- Sells out fast in peak summer — book early
- Athinios port in Santorini can be chaotic
- Schedule disruptions possible in bad weather
By Conventional Ferry
Blue Star Ferries and other operators run conventional ferry services between Santorini and Mykonos via other Cycladic islands. These large, stable ships are less affected by rough seas. The journey is longer but more comfortable for those sensitive to motion. Not all conventional services are daily — check schedules.
- More affordable than high-speed ferries
- Much more stable in rough weather
- Spacious decks with facilities
- Stop at other islands — possible to break the journey
- Takes 3-4 hours (versus 2-2.5 for high-speed)
- Fewer departures — not always daily
- Less convenient scheduling in some cases
- Slower does not always mean more comfortable in calm conditions
By Flight (Seasonal)
Sky Express operates seasonal direct flights between Santorini (JTR) and Mykonos (JMK), typically from May to October. Flights take only 30 minutes in the air, but when you factor in getting to and from the airports plus check-in time, total travel time is 2.5-3 hours — similar to a high-speed ferry. Flights are limited to 1-2 daily departures when available.
- Fastest actual travel time (30 minutes in the air)
- Avoids any seasickness risk
- Good option if ferries are cancelled due to weather
- Very expensive compared to ferry (€80-200+)
- Limited to 1-2 daily flights when available
- Airport logistics make total time similar to fast ferry
- Seasonal service only (May-October)
- Small aircraft — limited baggage
By Guided Tour (Hassle-Free)
One Nation Travel island-hopping Greece tours include the Santorini-to-Mykonos transfer as part of the package. Your high-speed ferry tickets, port transfers, hotel check-ins on both islands, and guided sightseeing are all arranged. Experience the best of both islands — Santorini's caldera sunsets and Mykonos's cosmopolitan beaches and nightlife — without any logistics stress.
- Ferry tickets, port transfers, and hotels all arranged
- Seamless transition between islands
- Expert local guides on both islands
- The most popular Greece island combination
- Fixed itinerary (though customizable on request)
📊 Santorini to Mykonos — At a Glance
| Transport | Duration | Cost | Best For | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚢 By High-Speed Ferry | 2–2.5 hours | €45–€70 | Most travelers — the standard way to make this trip | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| ⛴️ By Conventional Ferry | 3–4 hours | €30–€42 | Budget travelers and those who get seasick | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| ✈️ By Flight (Seasonal) | 30 minutes (+ airport time) | €80–€200 | Those with tight schedules and bigger budgets | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 🎫 By Guided Tour (Hassle-Free) | Included in multi-day package | All-inclusive from tour price | Travelers who want a seamless Cycladic experience | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
🧳 Travel Tips for This Route
This is one of Greece's most popular inter-island routes. Summer ferries (especially morning departures) sell out 2-3 weeks in advance. Book as early as possible for July-August travel via ferryhopper.com.
Strong Meltemi winds in July-August can cancel high-speed ferries. Have a backup plan — conventional Blue Star Ferries usually still operate, or consider the Sky Express flight as a last resort.
Athinios port is 9 km from Fira with a winding road. Public buses (€2.50) and taxis (€20-25) connect Fira to the port. Allow extra time — the road gets congested during ferry departure times.
Island hopping is easier with lighter luggage. Many hotels offer luggage storage if you want to leave a larger bag. Ferry boarding with heavy suitcases on narrow gangways can be challenging.
Many ferries between Santorini and Mykonos stop at Paros or Naxos. Consider breaking your journey for a day or two — these islands are less crowded and equally beautiful.
Download the Ferryhopper or OpenSeas app to check real-time ferry schedules, delays, and cancellations. They also send push notifications if your ferry is delayed or cancelled.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
High-speed ferries (SeaJets, Minoan Lines) take 2-2.5 hours. Conventional ferries (Blue Star Ferries) take 3-4 hours. The exact duration depends on whether the ferry stops at Paros, Naxos, or other islands en route.
In summer (June-September), there are typically 3-5 daily ferry departures combining high-speed and conventional services. In winter, service is reduced to 1-2 departures, sometimes not daily. Always check current schedules.
Yes, Sky Express operates seasonal direct flights (May-October), taking just 30 minutes. However, flights are expensive (€80-200+), infrequent (1-2 daily), and when airport logistics are included, total travel time is similar to a high-speed ferry. The ferry is usually the better option.
Most travelers visit Santorini first and end in Mykonos, as Mykonos has better nightlife for a trip finale. However, either order works well. Consider your flight connections — both islands have good Athens connections.
The Cyclades can experience rough seas, especially during Meltemi wind season (mid-July to mid-August). High-speed catamarans feel the waves more than large conventional ferries. If you are prone to seasickness, take a conventional ferry, sit near the center of the vessel, and consider motion sickness medication.
Technically possible with an early morning ferry and late return, but not recommended. You would spend 4-5 hours on ferries and only have a few hours on the island. Both islands deserve at least 2-3 days each.
Skip the Hassle — Book a Guided Tour
Let One Nation Travel handle your Santorini to Mykonos journey. All transfers, flights, hotels, and guides included in one package.
