Athinios

Athinios is the main port of the Greek island of Santorini. Located on the western coast of the island, it serves as the primary gateway for ferries and cruise ships arriving and departing from Santorini. The port is situated at the base of the island's dramatic caldera cliffs, offering visitors striking views as they approach or leave.

The port itself is a bustling hub of activity, with numerous ferry companies operating routes to and from mainland Greece, particularly Piraeus near Athens, as well as to other Cycladic islands and Crete. The infrastructure at Athinios includes ticket offices, waiting areas, and facilities for passengers. Due to its location, access to and from the port involves steep, winding roads, with regular bus services and taxis available to transport visitors to the island's main towns, such as Fira and Oia.

In recent years, there have been ongoing discussions and plans regarding the expansion and improvement of Athinios port to better manage the increasing volume of tourist traffic and to enhance the overall visitor experience. Its strategic position makes it a crucial element of Santorini's tourism industry, facilitating the arrival and departure of millions of visitors annually. The port's dramatic setting is often one of the first and last memorable sights for travelers to the island.