Getting from Mykonos to Santorini: stress-free routes, key pit stops, and the very best travel times


Mykonos and Santorini are two of the most visited Greek islands. Mykonos is known for its golden beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters. It’s especially busy in the peak season during the summer when many of its beaches play host to lively parties and festivals. If a romantic getaway is what you’re after, then Santorini might be for you. Santorini’s beaches have more of a rustic feel, and there are more sightseeing activities to do as well. Can't decide between Santorini and Mykonos? Why not plan a trip to both?
The islands are around 91 miles apart and there are several ways to get from Mykonos to Santorini. Traveling by ferry is the most common way to get from Mykonos to Santorini and there are also regular flights between the two islands. You may even want to splash out on a luxurious helicopter ride for that special occasion.
Mykonos to Santorini by ferry

This is probably the most stress-free and convenient way to travel from Mykonos to Santorini. Travel like a local and take in the idyllic view of the ocean while enjoying the fresh Mediterranean air. There are several ferries that operate between Mykonos and Santorini. If you plan on traveling to the islands during the peak season in summer, it’s worth booking your ferry tickets as far in advance as possible to avoid disappointment. In the low season, you can book your ferry a few days before your departure. Some ferries can take 5-7 hours while others (high-speed ferries) take only 2-3 hours. The faster routes are more expensive, so if you’re not willing to splurge for speed, taking the slower ferry is not only more scenic but budget-friendly, too.
Blue Star Ferry offers reliable and trusted travel from Mykonos to Santorini. SeaJets and Golden Star Ferries also operate between the islands. Ticket prices range from $65-70.
Check out our guide to taking the ferry from Mykonos to Santorini for more tips and tricks.
Mykonos to Santorini by cruise

Want to spend more time island-hopping? Then a cruise from Mykonos to Santorini is for you. Ideal for solo travelers, cruises offer a fixed itinerary and access to many different events and activities. Travel from Mykonos to Santorini, as part of your itinerary, and enjoy the hidden gems of the Greek archipelago. Some cruises run for a few days, others are only for a few hours. Private cruises, while more expensive, are a good option if you’re planning to travel as a group since the cost can be shared. Prices for shorter private cruises start at $54 while longer cruises can range anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000 per group.
Mykonos to Santorini by plane
Most return flights from Mykonos to Santorini have a layover in Athens, so the layover can make the travel time a lot longer. Flight times range from 2.5 to 8 hours, depending on how long your layover is. Check the flight schedules to decide which airline to fly with since they all have different layover times. Depending on your itinerary, the layover times and costly airfare might influence your decision on which mode of transportation to take. The average price range of return flights from Mykonos to Santorini is between $125 and $180, depending on peak or low seasons.
Mykonos to Santorini by helicopter

Want to experience the exclusivity that comes with traveling by helicopter? It may not be the most economical way of travel between the two islands but it sure is glamorous. It’s also the fastest way to travel from Mykonos to Santorini, with flight times of around 40 minutes. Flying from Mykonos to Santorini by helicopter gives you spectacular views of the Aegean sea and its cluster of islands. However, convenience and speed come with a hefty price tag. Charted transfers charge a minimum of $2,800, depending on the travel season.
Best way to get from Mykonos to Santorini
Ultimately, there’s no one best way to travel from Mykonos to Santorini. The mode of transportation you choose depends on your itinerary. For an island-hopping holiday that won’t break the bank, we recommend using the local ferry services, especially if you’re more of a spontaneous traveler. If you have a bigger budget or are celebrating a special occasion, it’s worth splurging on a helicopter ride.
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