If you’re arriving in Santorini by cruise ship, you’ll likely face the same dilemma as thousands of other visitors: Should I wait for the cable car in Fira, or pay extra for a “skip the line” transfer?
The reality is more nuanced than it seems.
Below we explain how the cable car works, what “skip the line” really means, and which option is most sensible for your day ashore.
Santorini Cable Car – Waiting Times Explained
- On busy cruise days with multiple ships arriving at the same time, the wait can reach up to 2 hours.
- On average, the waiting time is about 1 hour or less.
- On quieter days, the wait is typically 30 minutes or less.
Good to know: Viral social media posts showing extreme lines are not an everyday reality. Such queues usually occur 3-4 times per month, mainly in peak summer when several cruise ships tender passengers simultaneously.
Ticket Prices and How to Pay
- Adults: €10 per person (one way)
- Children 6–12 years: €5
- Children under 6: Free
Tickets are sold on the spot only at the Old Port kiosk. Payment: cash (euros) or credit/debit card. Pre-booking is not available.
“Skip the Line” – What It Really Means
Many companies advertise a “skip the line” service, but in practice it means you avoid the cable car by taking a sea-and-road detour:
- Wait at the Old Port for a small boat transfer (about 15–30 minutes).
- Boat ride to Athinios Port (the new port): ~15 minutes.
- Drive up the steep road from Athinios to the main road: 15–30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Total time: typically 45–90 minutes — often the same as, or longer than, waiting for the cable car.
The Hidden Costs of “Skip the Line”
- The boat transfer is bundled into the excursion price, which often exceeds €100 per person for a semi-private tour.
- For a similar budget, you can often book a fully private tour tailored to your interests.
Cable Car vs. Skip the Line – Quick Comparison
| Option | Average Time | Where You Arrive | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cable Car | 30–60 min (up to 2h on peak days) | Directly in Fira (central hub) | €10 adults / €5 children (6–12) / Free under 6 | Easy access to tours, buses, taxis, shops |
| Skip the Line (boat to Athinios) | 45–90 min | Athinios Port (outside town) | Often €100+ pp (excursion price) | Travelers willing to pay extra to avoid standing in line |
Other Options from the Old Port
- 588 steps to Fira: Free but very demanding, especially on hot summer days.
- Donkey rides: Still offered as a traditional option, but we do not recommend it. Many visitors and organizations have raised animal-welfare concerns; we encourage more comfortable and responsible alternatives like the cable car.
Recent Changes – Daily Visitor Cap
To reduce overcrowding, the Santorini municipality has introduced a limit of 8,000 cruise visitors per day, which has already helped curb extreme cable-car queues.
Our Insider Recommendation
- Try to take one of the first tenders from your cruise ship to the Old Port.
- This significantly reduces your cable-car waiting time.
- Arriving by cable car places you right in Fira — the main hub for tours, taxis, buses, shops, and the pedestrian center.
Conclusion – Skip the Line or Not?
“Skip the line” often doesn’t save time or money. With smart timing, the cable car remains the most efficient, comfortable, and cost-effective option.
Once you’re in Fira, explore with locals: browse our Private Santorini Tours and let us tailor the perfect day for you.
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