Is There Uber In Santorini In 2024? Yes, BUT…
Are you planning a Greece vacation and wondering if Uber is in Santorini?
After several visits to Santorini, I have used nearly all its transportation options and have the answer for you!
Santorini is a beloved island known for its captivating sunsets, stunning cliffs, and blue dome churches. When planning your Santorini vacation and figuring out the transportation logistics, you might wonder if there is Uber on the island.
Well, if Uber is your preferred mode of transportation, then you’re in luck! Uber currently operates on the iconic Cycladic island but doesn’t offer the same services you may used to.
However, there are also other choices for getting around Santorini worth considering.
I suggest considering the private transportation option from the ferry port or Santorini Airport, as it ensures you’ll have a quality driver and a solidified price for a seamless journey. Secure your reservation today to ensure a smooth travel experience. ▶︎BOOK YOURS NOW.
Another great alternative for maximum flexibility is to book with Discover Cars. A rental car guarantees the level of comfort you desire and better access to exploring the island. ▶︎BOOK YOUR RENTAL HERE.
This post will discuss the well-known rideshare app and other transportation options in Santorini.
Is There Uber in Santorini?
I spent three weeks on the island of Santorini, and one of the biggest things I had to figure out while planning was how I would get around.
Would there be an Uber I could call for and ask to take me to a catamaran cruise, flying dress photo shoot, or sunset dinner?
As previously mentioned, yes, Uber currently runs operations in Santorini.
However, you won’t find traditional services like UberX on the island. Instead, it connects you with drivers from local taxis and transportation companies with the following options: Uber Taxi, Uber Comfort, and Uber Van.
Santorini is one of a few locations where the ride-share app operates in the country! For example, many islands, including Paros or Naxos, do not offer Uber. Despite this, additional, less expensive ways to get around Santorini exist.
Also, due to the higher supply of taxis and buses on the island, there are not a lot of Uber Comfort and Van vehicles available. Only four Uber drivers were on the island when I visited Santorini in October 2021!
How Much Is A Santorini Uber?
Unfortunately, the price is another pitfall when taking an Uber in Santorini. When you order a Santorini Uber, it is set at a fixed rate of 36€ per ride.
That’s right, even if your destination is only 5 minutes from your starting point, you will pay a base of 36€! The ride-share app is not based on the trip’s duration or the distance you will be traveling.
Not to mention, there’s a chance you could have a very long wait. If your Uber is coming from Oia and you’re in Fira, you’ll be waiting at least 20 minutes!
Given that, booking a taxi or private transfer will be the best option for getting around Santorini if you do not want to drive yourself or be with strangers.
➡️This is the Private Santorini Transfer I recommend.
or if you prefer to drive yourself instead of a Santorini transfer
➡️I recommend using Discover Cars to book your rental car.
How To Get Around Santorini
Despite the cons of taking an Uber, you can use several other methods to get around Santorini. Thankfully, these options cater to various budgets and preferences.
Next, we’ll look into all the information you need on other ways to get around the island.
Transfers in Santorini
Transfers are a great, stress-free way to reach your accommodation. I recommend using this private transfer shuttle from the ferry port or airport, which has an excellent 5-star rating on Viator. They can take you anywhere around the island safely.
You can also book a shared shuttle if you want a more economical transfer service option. Just be mindful that you may have to wait on others with bookings with the shuttle.
Nevertheless, it’s still better than getting overcharged by the on-demand taxis and other drivers at the port and airport.
➡️For a hassle-free journey, book this Santorini Private Shuttle. Or the Shared Shuttle for a more budget-friendly option.
Taxis in Santorini
One of the first things to consider when planning your transportation logistics is whether you want to drive yourself or have this done by someone else.
Luckily, several alternative options exist if you do not want to drive. Taxis are one of the options if you don’t want to use Uber in Santorini. Additionally, taxis are more available on the island and can drive you to most destinations.
How Can I Find a Taxi in Santorini?
There are several ways to find a taxi in Santorini. You can flag one down in the street, go to a taxi stand in Fira or Oia, or even use the Uber app to get one.
👉TRAVEL TIP: Under Greek law, taxis cannot carry more than four passengers. You will need to request additional taxis if your group exceeds this.
Is It Hard To Get A Taxi In Santorini?
While more accessible than getting an Uber, a taxi becomes difficult to request depending on when you visit.
It’s crucial to note Santorini’s size as a smaller island. There are fewer than 50 taxis to serve a destination that sees 2 million visitors per year! Despite the higher supply and distribution of taxis on the island compared to Uber, getting one can be challenging due to the demand.
👉TRAVEL TIP: The demand for taxis is very high during the peak season. Given that, it will be harder to find an available taxi, resulting in longer wait times. Schedule your taxis ahead of time!
However, regardless of location at the port, airport, or sunset dinner, taxis should be in or near the area. It is also a good practice to save the taxi’s number so you can request them throughout your trip.
What are Santorini Taxi Prices?
Santorini taxi prices can vary depending on the trip duration and the requested time.
To get from the Santorini International Airport to Fira, you can expect to pay 20€ to 30€, while 35€ to 40€ for Oia.
On the other hand, if you are coming from the port, a trip to Fira will cost around 20€ to 35€, with it being 30€ to 45€ for Oia.
👉TRAVEL TIP: Agree on a price with your taxi driver before the trip begins to prevent surcharges.
Similar to most locations, fares will be more expensive into the evening and as the night ends.
How Much Is A Taxi From Fira to Oia?
To get from Fira to Oia, you can expect to pay around 30€ euros, with increased prices during the evening and after midnight.
👉TRAVEL TIP: For the most part, taxis in Santorini do not accept credit cards. Make sure that you are carrying enough cash!
Buses in Santorini
Buses are the only public transportation option in Santorini and, subsequently, the least costly option. Because of this, it is the most budget-friendly option on the island.
The buses are owned by the KTEL company and operate throughout the year.
Where do the Santorini Buses Pick You Up?
The bus station hub is located in Fira here. With Fira as the central point, all routes will start or end in Fira.
That being said, there is no direct connection to any village or beach without stopping in Fira.
👉TRAVEL TIP: The buses are known to get crowded, especially during peak season. Make sure you arrive early!
The destinations that Fira departs to and that come to the capital are the following: Oia, Imerovigili, Perissa, Kamari, Akrotiri, Santorini International Airport, and Santorini Ferry Port.
What Are Santorini Bus Prices?
Fares for the KTEL buses are as low as 2€ and do not exceed 3.1€! Now you can understand why this is such a popular transportation option! The prices are based on the distance traveled and the time of day.
Discount rates are provided to those with disabilities or having more than one child.
Only cash is accepted to pay for bus tickets. If you only have larger bills, try to get smaller ones before you arrive at the bus stop to make the process more efficient.
Rental Vehicles in Santorini
If you want the best option for flexibility, renting a vehicle is for you!
Having a rental car lets you see your bucket list options without worrying about scheduling a taxi or transfer or making it to the bus station ahead of time.
The resource that I personally use for booking rental cars is Discover Cars. They provide options from international and domestic companies.
👉TRAVEL TIP: Ensure you have your national driver’s license! Depending on your country, you may or may not need an International Driver’s License (IDP).
As of November 2021, Americans are no longer legally required to carry an IDP, but some rental agencies may still ask.
Where Can I Rent a Car in Santorini?
The Santorini International Airport is the most convenient and recommended location to pick up your rental car. While you can rent from places like the ferry port, the process is much more efficient through the airport.
Once you’re in the arrivals zone, you will see the car rental kiosks, which include Enterprise, Hertz, and Sixt.
However, if you don’t want to rent a car, you can also rent an ATV, scooter, or buggy. These can be found throughout the island at various rental stores.
You’ll see many tourists opt for ATVs and scooters. Their smaller size allows you to explore sites that may have underdeveloped Santorini roads, particularly with ATVs, in addition to making parking easier. ATV tours are also a great way to explore hidden gems on the islands.
🚗To view rates and book rental cars, use Discover Cars!
What are Santorini Car Rental Prices?
Vehicle rental prices can depend on whether you visit during the off-season or peak season and the type of vehicle you rent.
During the low season, you can find daily rates of around 36€ to 70€ for cars. Unsurprisingly, the increased demand during peak season leads to more significant rates. Rental cars will cost around 50€ to over 100€ during that time.
👉TRAVEL TIP: If you can, try to book your rental car in advance. This applies especially if you are visiting during peak season. The early bird gets the worm!
On the other hand, for ATVs, you can expect to pay around 25-50€ per day no matter what time of the year. When I visited in October 2021, I paid 25€ for my ATV rental. Depending on the shop, scooters charge around the same rates as ATVs, sometimes even less pricey.
How Is Driving In Santorini?
Regarding driving, locals tend not to strictly follow the road rules in Greece. During your trip, you may run into a few aggressive or significantly speeding drivers. I remember seeing some people driving in the wrong direction on my trip!
Given that, you must elevate your senses and be very alert while driving in Santorini. In addition, Santorini roads can be narrow, hilly, and filled with pedestrians, so make sure you are driving safely.
What is the Best Way For Getting Around Santorini?
The best way to get around Santorini will depend on your preferences and budget. Whether you want to take public transportation, drive yourself, or be driven by someone else, there are options!
The most flexible way to get around the island will be by renting a vehicle. You can choose between various vehicles, including cars, ATVs, scooters, etc.
However, you can look into taxis or private transfers if you don’t want to drive.
Meanwhile, if you’re looking for the lowest cost option, the bus will be the best form of transportation. However, remember that Fira is the hub, and you will start or end at that station regardless of your route.
Things To Do in Santorini
Santorini has various things to do that you can partake in during your vacation. Next, we’ll look at some of the best activities you can do during your time on the island.
✅Enjoy a sunset catamaran cruise.
The sunsets are one of the crown jewels of the island. What better way to enjoy it than with dinner and drinks?!
➡️I highly recommend this Sunset Catamaran Cruise.
✅Book an ATV Tour.
This is a great way to explore the island with a local and visit hidden gems.
➡️This is the ATV Tour I did when I visited Santorini.
✅Do the Fira to Oia hike.
This is the most scenic hike you can do in Santorini. You will enjoy visiting the island’s two most famous villages while taking in breathtaking views.
✅Become a model during a flying dress photoshoot.
This was one of the most memorable moments during my entire trip. You will cherish the photos for a lifetime!
➡️You can view different options for the flying dress photoshoot here!
✅Go on a wine tour.
Santorini is home to many delicious wines for you to enjoy. You can go to the wineries on a tour or by yourself.
➡️Check out this excellent Wine Tour in Santorini!
FAQs: Is There Uber in Santorini
Now you know there is Uber in Santorini and other transportation options. Now, we’ll dive into the answers to some frequently asked questions you have related to the topic.
Do Other Greek Islands Have Uber?
Uber currently operates only in a few Greek islands, like Corfu and Mykonos. Like Santorini, you can find the same alternative transportation methods for getting around Corfu, such as taxis, buses, and ATVs.
Unfortunately, if you are planning to use Uber in Paros, it’s not offered. Still, that doesn’t need to be a final straw whether you go there or to Mykonos, as there are plenty of transportation options on famous islands.
Is There Uber in Athens?
Yes, Uber is also in Athens. You can request someone to take you to the Acropolis or the airport.
Additionally, Thessaloniki is the only other city on the mainland where Uber operates. Together, they are two of the only four places in Greece where you can use Uber.
Do I Need a Car in Santorini?
No, you do not need a car in Santorini. As mentioned above, several other options are available for getting around Santorini.
However, if you want the best option for flexibility, renting a car would be the most optimal choice. Just be cautious when navigating the Santorini roads, which can become narrow and full of pedestrians.
If you prefer public transportation, you can take the KTEL buses. On the other hand, if you prefer to be driven by someone else, you can request a taxi or book a private transfer.
How Big Is Santorini?
Santorini is a smaller island, around 76 square kilometers or 29 square miles. Despite its smaller size, Santorini is one of the most famous Greek islands.
Over 2 million tourists visit the island yearly to see its stunning beauty. The sunset behind the Santorini Caldera is one of the most picturesque sights you can find and is 100% worth the trip to Greece. Much of Santorini’s unique beauty stems from the infamous volcanic eruption.
Not to mention, the compact size also makes it easier to explore all there is to do on the island.
Is Taxi Expensive In Santorini?
Taxis are a pricier way of navigating around Santorini, especially if you are a solo traveler.
They are typically not metered in Santorini and are instead agreed upon by the driver. Average prices for Santorini taxis range from 20-40€, and night-time rates are more expensive.
Alternatively, you can take the public buses or rent a low-cost vehicle to save on your transportation expenses.
Which Taxi App Works In Santorini?
Uber is currently the only app you can use to order taxis in Santorini. While FREENOW is a popular choice for ordering taxis in Athens, it does not yet have operations in Santorini.
To Sum Up: Is There Uber In Santorini?
I hope this post gave you all the info you need based on your question if there is there Uber in Santorini. To keep it short, yes, there is Uber on Santorini and the Ionian island of Corfu. Additionally, Uber operates in other areas on the Greek mainland, including Athens and Thessaloniki.
Unfortunately, if islands like Milos and Naxos or mainland destinations like Meteora are on your itinerary, Uber does not operate in those areas. Mykonos is an additional island in the Cyclades where you can find Uber.
However, you don’t have to be limited to using Uber as your mode of transportation for your Santorini vacation. Other modes, including rental vehicles and taxis, are available to ease transportation across the island.