Santorini Old Harbor, Santorini Travel Guide

4.4 (3694)

Discover Santorini's historic Old Harbor: the gateway to Fira, volcanic adventures, and stunning caldera views.

Home
Travel Guides
Greece
Santorini
Fira
Santorini Old Harbor

Santorini's Old Harbor, also known as Skala or Gialos, is a historic port nestled at the base of the caldera cliffs in Fira. Once the island's primary commercial hub, it now primarily serves cruise ships and excursion boats, offering access to the volcano and nearby islands.

A brief summary to Santorini Old Harbor

Fira, 847 00, GR
Click to display

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Santorini Old Harbor.

Arrive early or late in the day to avoid long queues for the cable car, especially during peak season when multiple cruise ships are in port.
Consider taking a boat tour from the Old Harbor to explore the nearby volcano and hot springs.
Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk up the steps to Fira.
Check the Santorini cruise ship calendar to anticipate potential crowds.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Three Bells of Fira

Fira Theotokopoulos Main Square

Fira

Sunset Fira

Three Bells of Fira iconic viewpoint

Explore Santorini Old Harbor on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Santorini Old Harbor, mapped for you.

Getting There

Cable Car

From the Old Harbor, follow signs to the Santorini Cable Car Lower Station. Purchase a one-way ticket (€10 for adults, €5 for children aged 6-12, free for children under 6). The cable car operates daily from 6:30 to 22:00, with departures every 20 minutes. The ride to Fira takes approximately 3 minutes. Be prepared for potential queues during peak season. Luggage fee is €5 per item.
Walking

From the Old Harbor, locate the stepped path leading up to Fira. The path consists of approximately 580 steps and can be physically demanding. Allow 20-30 minutes for the ascent, depending on fitness level. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially during hot weather. There is no cost for walking.
Public Transport

To reach the Old Harbor from Fira by bus, head to Fira's central bus station. Board the bus to the Old Port. The bus ticket costs approximately €1-€3. The bus ride takes around 25 minutes. From the bus stop at the Old Harbor, it is a short walk to the waterfront.
Taxi

Taxis are available from anywhere in Santorini to the Old Port. A taxi ride from Fira to the Old Port takes approximately 10 minutes and costs €10-€15. Inform the driver that you want to go to the Santorini Cable Car - Lower Station at the Old Port. Taxis can be found near Fira's central bus station.

Discover more about Santorini Old Harbor

Santorini's Old Harbor, or Skala, is steeped in history, dating back to a volcanic eruption in 1650 BC that shaped the island's dramatic landscape. For centuries, it served as Santorini's main commercial port, facilitating trade and connecting the island to the wider world. As tourism flourished, the harbor transitioned to cater primarily to cruise ship passengers and tourists seeking excursions.Today, the Old Harbor is a vibrant hub, teeming with activity during the summer months. Cruise ships tender passengers to the harbor via smaller boats, as the port's size cannot accommodate large vessels. From here, visitors can explore Fira, embark on boat tours to the volcanic islands, or simply soak in the stunning views. The waterfront is lined with shops, restaurants, and tavernas, offering a taste of local culture and cuisine.The harbor offers three primary options for ascending the steep cliffs to Fira: the cable car, a challenging 580-step hike, or a donkey ride. The cable car provides a convenient and scenic ascent, while the donkey path offers a traditional, albeit controversial, experience. The hike is a test of endurance, rewarding those who brave the climb with breathtaking views.