Layovers at Santorini Airport are Nothing but Annoying!

Truth be told, Santorini Airport is a minor airfield, offering just the basic services and facilities. Thus, your options for a stopover at JTR Airport are limited. However, on the other hand, you can reach almost any area of the island in just 10–20 minutes by taxi. Hence, even during a 3–4-hour layover, you can leave the airport and get a glimpse of the island.

Have you Settled on Staying at JTR Airport?

The airport’s amenities are minimal. However, don’t lose heart. There are still some interesting ideas about spending your spare time at Santorini Airport:

1. Exploit the Airport’s Wi-Fi

Santorini Airport offers free Wi-Fi throughout all its premises. Thus, you can enter the airport’s network and tie all loose ends. Finish your work projects, organize your emails, prioritize your tasks or even plan your upcoming journey to your final destination. Moreover, you can catch up on your social media or watch your favorite TV series or film.

2. It’s Time to Read your Book

Free time tends to become a luxury. Nevertheless, now you have spare time and you get to choose how to spend it. So, why not read the book that you always wanted to read but never had the chance to? Santorini Airport has limited seating. Still, if seating inside isn’t an option, you can find a cozy spot outside the terminal and enjoy the Greek sun.

3. Shop at JTR Airport

Apart from the small-duty-free area, Santorini Thira Airport features a phone store in the Arrivals area, a gallery selling artistic objects by Greek designers, and an optical shop located in the public Departures zone.

4. Eat and Drink at Santorini Airport

Hungry or in the mood for a refreshing drink? JTR doesn’t offer many options, yet they are all decent:

– Eat at Αυθεντία, a casual restaurant.
– Enjoy snacks or coffee at Bonheur.
– Dine at Caldera, a fine restaurant serving local and international dishes.
– Grab a burger at Holy Burger.
– Opt for pizza and pasta at Il Maestro.

All dining venues are located in the Departures area after security, except for Caldera, which lies outside the Departures zone.

5. Do you Need to Rest?

Unfortunately, Santorini Airport doesn’t have lounges or sleeping areas. Seating is limited, and the airport closes at night, operating from 06:30 am to 10:15 pm. Therefore, if you wish to sleep during a layover, checking into a nearby hotel is the only option.

Leaving JTR Airport? Meet the Impeccable Santorini!

If your layover is long enough and you are up for exploration, Santorini offers countless experiences within a short distance from the airport.

1. Visit one of the Island’s Villages

Fira: The island’s capital offers breathtaking caldera views, vibrant shopping, dining options, and museums such as the Archaeological Museum of Thera and the Museum of Prehistoric Thera.

Oia: Famous for its white houses, blue domes, and sunsets. Ideal for scenic walks, although often crowded.

Akrotiri: Santorini’s top archaeological site, preserving a prehistoric village buried by volcanic ash over 3,500 years ago.

Pyrgos: A quiet traditional village with a scenic square, local museum, and a trail leading to Profitis Ilias Monastery.

Imerovigli: One of the best spots for caldera views and sunsets, also offering access to Skaros Rock.

2. Walk from Fira to Oia

The famous hiking trail from Fira to Oia is 9km/5.6 miles long and takes about 4 hours. It passes through Imerovigli and offers spectacular views.

Our Tip: Wear proper shoes and carry water and sun protection, especially in summer.

3. Go for a Swim

Santorini’s volcanic beaches are unique. Options include Red Beach, White Beach, Perivolos, and Kamari. If weather permits, a quick swim is a great way to spend your layover.

4. Visit one of the Island’s Wineries

Santorini hosts over 18 wineries. Popular choices include Santo Wines, Domaine Sigalas, and Estate Argyros, offering wine tastings of Assyrtiko and Vinsanto.

5. Don’t Leave Santorini without Tasting its Food

Local delicacies include fava Santorinis, tomato balls, atherinopita, sfougato, chlorotiri cheese, and white eggplants.

6. Book a Tour

If you prefer a hassle-free experience, booking a guided tour is the most efficient way to see Santorini’s highlights during your airport layover.