The Traveling Taylors

The Santorini cable car is one of the island’s most talked-about experiences—but is it really the best way to get from the Old Port up to Fira? We’ve done it (along with the alternative routes), and here’s the honest truth: it depends. Let’s break down when it’s worth it, when it’s not, and what your other options look like.

🚡 The Pros of Taking the Santorini Cable Car

✅ Fast and easy:
It takes just 3 minutes to glide from the Old Port to the top of the cliff. Beats climbing 600 steep, sun-baked stairs.

✅ Scenic views:
The ride gives you sweeping panoramas of the caldera, cruise ships, and cliffs—perfect for a quick photo op. For travelers who want high-quality photos and videos during their trip, a lightweight mirrorless camera like this one is a popular choice among content creators and travel photographers.

✅ Budget-friendly:
At €6 per person, it’s relatively affordable considering the altitude gain and convenience.

✅ Great for cruise passengers:
If you’re short on time and coming from a ship, it’s the fastest way into town.

🛑 The Cons (and When It’s NOT Worth It)

❌ Long lines during cruise arrivals:
With only 6 small cars operating at a time, wait times can exceed an hour if multiple ships dock at once.

❌ Limited accessibility:
You still need to walk from the port tender drop-off to the base station. For travelers with mobility issues, it’s not a totally step-free option.

❌ No return guarantee:
If the line is long in both directions, you might be stuck waiting or forced to climb the stairs on your way back down.

❌ Not open 24/7:
It doesn’t run all night, so check the schedule carefully—especially if you’re planning a sunset dinner in Fira.

A lightweight travel backpack like this one is useful for carrying essentials like snacks, chargers, credit cards, cash, and a jacket when taking the cable car to explore Santorini.

🚶 Option 1: Walking the 600 Steps (Pros & Cons)

Pros:

• Free
• Offers an up-close view of cliffside architecture
• You’ll feel accomplished when you reach the top

Cons:

• Brutal in summer heat
• Slippery and uneven in spots
• Constant donkey traffic—yes, that includes donkey droppings

When it’s better than the cable car:
If the line is over 45 minutes long or you’re up for a bit of a challenge with water and sunscreen on hand. Protecting your skin from the sun is essential in this type of climate, and many travelers rely on SPF 50 sunscreen sprays like this one for quick and easy coverage.

🐴 Option 2: Donkey Ride (Spoiler: We Don’t Recommend It)

While still offered as a tourist attraction, donkey rides raise serious animal welfare concerns.
Better choice: Respect the animals, and skip this one. There are more ethical ways to enjoy the island.

🧭 Option 3: Pre-Booked Transfers (If You’re Not on a Cruise)

If you’re flying into Santorini or staying elsewhere, you can avoid the cable car altogether.

• Private shuttles and taxis will take you straight to your hotel or into Fira.
• No stairs, no wait—just convenience.

🎯 So, Is the Santorini Cable Car Worth It?

YES, if:

• You want a fast, scenic ride
• The line is under 30 minutes
• You’re arriving via cruise and need quick access to Fira

NO, if:

• It’s peak cruise hour and the wait is outrageous
• You prefer walking or don’t mind a physical challenge. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes. Comfortable shoes are essential when exploring climbing the 600 steps, and many travelers recommend supportive walking sneakers like these for full days of sightseeing.
• You’re sensitive to crowds or limited on time

🚠 Use It Smartly or Skip It Happily

The Santorini cable car is a useful and memorable ride—if you time it right. But it’s not the only way to enjoy the island’s stunning cliffs. Whether you ride, walk, or drive, just plan ahead and choose what fits your style.

For more tips on navigating the island, check out our 11 Santorini Attractions You Didn’t Know Existed or our hidden tricks for Budget Saving Flight Hacks to Santorini Airlines Hide.