SANTORINI GUIDE

Iconic Travel • February 11, 2026

Cable Car Lines, Timing, Tips



Santorini Cable Car: Essential Tips

Wait times are highly variable, dictated by the time of day and the volume of cruise ships anchored in the bay. The gondola system departs every 10 minutes, with the scenic ascent taking less than 5 minutes.

Strategy is Key: To avoid the longest queues, steer clear of peak morning arrivals and late afternoon departures—particularly on days when multiple vessels are in port.

Do Your Homework: Check the daily cruise ship schedule and port call logs ahead of time to anticipate crowd density.

No Fast-Pass Access: There is currently no "skip-the-line" ticket available. Be sure to research alternative transport—like the donkey path or speedboats—to see which fits your schedule best. Read more →

Current Queue Status

Following the 2025 implementation of new berth allocation regulations and daily passenger caps, the legendary "endless" lines have significantly decreased. However, be advised that extended waits are still a reality on peak summer days when mega-ships are visiting.