Fly to Santorini in Style with These 8 Best Airlines in 2025

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Dreaming of a trip to Santorini? With its famous white-washed villages, stunning caldera views, and unforgettable sunsets, Santorini is a bucket-list destination that’s well worth the journey. I’ve visited Santorini twice and, as a travel blogger with experience in 38 European countries, I’ve learned a few insider tricks for scoring affordable flights to this dreamy island.

For this article, I analyzed 170+ flight routes from 30 US airports and 20 European airports to find the 8 best airlines for flying to Santorini in 2025. While Santorini’s main airport, Thira (JTR), may be small, these airlines make it easy to reach from both the US and European hubs. With tips for landing budget fares, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to Santorini without breaking the bank. Here’s how to make your Santorini escape as smooth and affordable as possible!

Quick tip to find cheap flights to Santorini

For over 4 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to get amazing flight deals. All you have to do is enter your home airport and where you want to go, and from there, they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals. And the coolest part? It’s 100% FREE! In 2024, I’ve saved thousands of dollars from their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $593 roundtrip fare from Boston to Santorini.

There’s a free and a premium version – the free one has pretty much everything you’ll need. Though if you’re like me and travel a lot every year, it’s worth upgrading to the paid version for $49 per year. In my experience, you’ll get your money back after finding just one discounted flight! As such, I recommend signing up for the free trial (you can cancel at any time) to try it for yourself. And if you like it, be sure to use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Now without further ado, here are the best Santorini flights in 2025.

1. 🇬🇷 Aegean Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Athens (ATH), Thessaloniki (SKG)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles+Bonus — Star Alliance network
• ☕ Perks: Most extensive Greek islands network, cultural familiarity, Athens stopover
• 🧠 Pro Tip: For short Santorini flights, skip Business and book the “GoLight+Bag” fare. It includes a checked bag, seat selection, and priority boarding often for 70% less.

When you’re flying to Greece’s most photographed island, it only makes sense to go with the airline that knows it best. Aegean has been connecting Santorini with the rest of the country for decades, offering multiple daily flights during peak season and the kind of island-specific know-how that international carriers just can’t match.

Aegean’s newer A320neos come with clean, modern cabins, USB ports, and comfortable leather seating. The food is refreshingly good, especially on short domestic hops where most airlines wouldn’t serve anything. Business Class adds a bit more space, better meals, and access to wines from across Greece’s regions, including Santorini itself.

Athens is the ideal springboard to Santorini. If weather or wind delays throw a wrench in your plans, Aegean’s extensive domestic network gives them a huge advantage in rerouting passengers quickly. The Terminal A lounge in Athens offers fresh local dishes, Greek wines, and even showers, turning a layover into a relaxing pre-island pause.

Miles+Bonus provides solid value, especially for Star Alliance redemptions and domestic add-ons within Greece. Aegean’s “GoLight+Bag” fare for Santorini flights, which includes a checked bag, seat selection, and priority boarding at prices 60-70% below Business while still providing all the essentials. For travelers beginning outside Greece, consider Aegean’s vacation packages combining international flights with island-hopping. These often deliver savings of 15-20% compared to booking components separately. 

• Read next: Best Places to Visit in Greece

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2. 🇬🇧 easyJet

• 🏠 Hub: London (LGW, LTN), Milan (MXP), Berlin (BER), Paris (CDG, ORY)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy only (with “Up Front” and “Extra Legroom” options)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: easyJet Plus (subscription program)
• ☕ Perks: Extensive European network, direct Santorini flights, consistent product
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book their “Standard Plus” fare package instead of adding extras individually. For about $35 more than the base fare, you get a cabin bag, seat selection, and speedy boarding that would cost $60+ if purchased separately

Looking for a budget-friendly way to get to Santorini without connecting through Athens? easyJet has you covered. This no-frills European favorite runs direct seasonal flights from London, Milan, Paris, Berlin, and more, offering one of the fastest and cheapest ways to touch down on the island.

easyJet may be low-cost, but the product is surprisingly polished. The airline flies Airbus A320neos that come with slimline seats that offer more space than you’d expect, clean cabins, and punctual service that holds up well, especially on Greek island routes. Want a bit more comfort? Their “Up Front” and “Extra Legroom” seats are affordable upgrades that make a difference on longer flights.

What really sets easyJet apart is their wide European network. During summer, they fly daily from London and several times a week from major cities like Milan and Paris, giving travelers options without needing to piece together tricky connections. It’s straightforward, and that’s part of the appeal.

While easyJet Plus might not be worth it for casual travelers, the “Standard Plus” fare bundle is a solid deal. You’ll get a cabin bag, seat selection, and priority boarding for much less than buying them individually. Expect roundtrip fares from London to Santorini to land between $150-300 if you book early. For the best mix of value and weather, look to travel in May or October when flights are cheaper, crowds are thinner, and the island is just as stunning. 

• Read next: Cheapest European Countries to Visit
• You may also like: Beautiful Places in Europe

3. 🇨🇭 SWISS

• 🏠 Hub: Zurich (ZRH), Geneva (GVA)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More — Star Alliance network
• ☕ Perks: Swiss quality, excellent connections, elevated experience
• 🧠 Pro Tip: If you’re booking Economy, request “empty middle seat” during online check-in. If the flight isn’t full, SWISS often blocks these seats until last, giving you a pseudo-business experience for free.

Want to feel like your vacation starts the moment you board the plane? SWISS brings a touch of Alpine class to Santorini with seasonal direct flights from Zurich that make even short-haul European flights feel civilized again.

There’s something refreshingly old-school about SWISS service. While other carriers have reduced short flights to glorified bus rides, these folks still serve actual Swiss chocolate, pour drinks in real glassware, and provide meals that don’t taste like they’ve been sitting in storage since last summer. In fact, the Airbus A220s operating the Santorini route are aviation’s equivalent of boutique hotels. They are quieter, more spacious, and with a 2-3 seating configuration that means fewer dreaded middle seats.

Connecting through Zurich feels more like a pleasant interlude than the usual airport endurance test. The entire facility is spotlessly clean, logically designed, and capable of turning even tight connections into stress-free experiences. SWISS’ lounges deserve special mention, with food that people actually want to eat and baristas who know their way around an espresso machine.

Fare-wise, expect to pay a premium for this quality, with roundtrips from Zurich to Santorini running $250-450 in Economy and $550-800 in Business. The insider move? Book early morning or late evening flights, which often run $100+ cheaper than midday departures while giving you more time on the island. 

• Read next: Beautiful Places in Switzerland
• You may also like: Top Attractions in Zürich

4. 🇮🇪 Ryanair

• 🏠 Hub: Dublin (DUB), London (STN), Milan (BGY), Brussels (CRL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy only
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: None
• ☕ Perks: Rock-bottom prices, extensive network, newer aircraft
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book Ryanair’s “Regular” fare instead of “Value.” For about $25 more, you get priority boarding with two cabin bags instead of just one small personal item, often saving $60+ in checked bag fees.

Looking to save your euros for sunset dinners in Oia instead of burning them on airfare? Ryanair makes it possible. With direct seasonal flights to Santorini from over 15 cities including London, Milan, Vienna, and Brussels, Europe’s largest low-cost carrier offers access to the Cyclades at prices that occasionally dip below $50 roundtrip.

The Ryanair experience is all about no-frills efficiency. They fly Boeing 737s that come with slimline seats, no seatback entertainment, and a pay-for-everything model. On flights that rarely exceed three hours, that’s often more than enough. Their newer aircraft also have modern interiors and decent lighting, plus a mobile app that makes managing your booking surprisingly smooth.

Where Ryanair really wins is network and frequency. Direct flights from multiple cities make Santorini reachable without a connection in Athens, and their early morning departures and late-night returns maximize time on the island. During peak summer, you’ll often have multiple options per week, even from smaller European airports.

Without a traditional loyalty program, Ryanair’s value comes purely from rock-bottom pricing. Base fares from major European cities typically run $100-250 roundtrip, though headline-grabbing sales occasionally drop below $50 for limited seats. The key to Ryanair success? Book the “Regular” fare instead of “Value” for priority boarding and two cabin bags instead of just one small personal item. 

• Read next: Cheap European Vacations

5. 🇬🇧 Jet2

• 🏠 Hub: Manchester (MAN), London Stansted (STN), Birmingham (BHX), Leeds (LBA)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy (with “Extra Legroom” and “Up Front” seating)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: myJet2 — Points-based
• ☕ Perks: Resort-focused approach, generous baggage, attentive service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book the “Resort Flight + Extras” package instead of just a flight. For around $50-70 more, you’ll get a checked bag, seat selection, and extra legroom. They’re worth over $110 if purchased separately.

Leisure travel with surprisingly premium touches? Jet2 has mastered the sweet spot between budget prices and elevated service on their direct flights to Santorini from nine UK airports, including Manchester, London Stansted, and Birmingham.

Unlike many leisure carriers, Jet2 feels refreshingly relaxed.  Seats are well-padded and offer more space than you’d expect, even in Standard rows. You can upgrade to “Extra Legroom” seats for even more comfort or choose “Up Front” seats that include priority boarding and faster exit after landing. They also stand out by offering complimentary tea, coffee, and water—something you don’t usually get with low-cost carriers.

What really sets them apart is their resort-first mindset. Flights run at civilized hours, not before sunrise. Package deals often include a generous 48 lbs checked bag and convenient hotel transfers. Jet2’s deep focus on Greek islands means they understand Santorini’s uniquely challenging infrastructure and prepare passengers accordingly.

The myJet2 loyalty program offers a simple way to save on future trips, and roundtrip fares usually range from $200-400. For the best value, Jet2’s “Flight + Extras” bundles pack in the perks at a discount. Planning a luxury stay? Check out the “Indulgence Collection,” which pairs flights with premium hotels offering caldera views and private pools. Make sure to book early as flights per route sell out fast, especially in summer.

• Read next: Cheap Flights from the UK
• You may also like: Best Places to Visit in Santorini
• For more reading: Cheap Flights from Birmingham
• Keep reading: Best Places to Visit in Crete
• Also worth reading: Top Experiences in the Greek Islands

6. 🇪🇸 Volotea

• 🏠 Hub: Venice (VCE), Nantes (NTE), Bordeaux (BOD), Athens (ATH)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy only
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Megavolotea — Subscription-based
• ☕ Perks: Unique route network, Athens connections, boutique experience
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Join Volotea’s subscription program for $55 a year if you fly around Europe often. Members save up to 40% on fares, get free seat selection, and enjoy priority boarding.

Looking for a quieter, less crowded way to reach Santorini? Volotea, a boutique Spanish airline, focuses on connecting smaller European cities directly to the Greek islands. This approach skips the hassle of major airports like Paris or London while still offering budget-friendly fares.

The in-flight experience is more pleasant than you might expect from a low-cost airline. Volotea’s Airbus A320s feature leather seats, clean cabin interiors, and more breathing room than you’d find on many ultra-budget carriers. The Mediterranean-based crews are also friendly and relaxed, creating a laid-back atmosphere from the moment you board. Most flights depart in the afternoon and return in the morning, giving travelers more time to enjoy the island.

Volotea stands out for flying to Santorini from cities where nonstop options are pretty rare like Venice, Bordeaux, Lyon, and Nantes. If a direct flight isn’t available, their Athens hub offers frequent connections that are easy to navigate.

Roundtrip fares typically range from $150 to $350 depending on the season. The airline’s Megavolotea subscription is worth considering if you plan to fly more than once a year. It unlocks discounted fares, free seat selection, and early boarding. For an even smoother arrival, you can add “Boarding First,” which includes a separate transfer bus and priority access to your seat. The carry-on allowance is generous too, letting you pack for a full week in Santorini without needing to check a bag.

7. 🇮🇪 Aer Lingus

• 🏠 Hub: Dublin (DUB), Shannon (SNN)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, AerSpace (premium economy)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: AerClub — Avios-based
• ☕ Perks: Transatlantic connections, elevated service, US pre-clearance
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Save the splurge for the Athens-Santorini leg. AerSpace seats on short-haul routes include lounge access, an empty middle seat, and full service for just $70 to $90 more than economy.

Aer Lingus brings an unexpectedly polished option to Santorini, especially for travelers coming from the US or Canada. The airline’s Dublin hub makes connecting easy, and thanks to US Customs pre-clearance, your return trip is much smoother. 

The in-flight experience feels more premium than the price suggests. Economy includes complimentary tea and coffee, plus modern interiors with leather seats and device holders. The AerSpace cabin is where the airline really shines on short routes. It includes priority boarding, food and drinks, and guaranteed extra space by blocking the middle seat. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference on crowded flights.

Dublin makes for a remarkably civilized connecting hub, with US Customs pre-clearance meaning American travelers clear immigration before departure and arrive home as domestic passengers. Their stylish lounges feature proper Irish whiskey selections, barista coffee, and substantial food offerings. For Santorini specifically, they partner with Aegean Airlines for the Athens-Santorini leg, maintaining consistent service standards throughout the journey.

AerClub uses the Avios currency shared with British Airways and Iberia, creating valuable redemption opportunities across multiple carriers. Cash fares from Dublin to Santorini typically run $250-450 roundtrip in Economy and $450-700 in AerSpace. North American travelers will find particular value in Aer Lingus’ one-stop service from New York, Boston, Chicago, and Toronto, often pricing 15-20% below larger carriers while delivering a more boutique experience.

• Read next: Cheap Flights from Dublin

8. 🇪🇸 Vueling

• 🏠 Hub: Barcelona (BCN), Rome (FCO), Paris (ORY), Florence (FLR)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Space, Space One (first row)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Vueling Club — Avios-based
• ☕ Perks: Designer uniforms, stylish approach, Iberia/BA connections
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Opt for the “TimeFlex” fare. For around $60 more than basic economy, you’ll get unlimited free changes, cancellation with refund to your travel wallet, and priority boarding.

Style meets substance with IAG Group’s Mediterranean-focused subsidiary. Vueling brings Barcelona flair to Santorini with seasonal direct flights from Barcelona, Rome, Paris, and Florence aboard their elegantly appointed Airbus A320neo aircraft.

Unlike many budget carriers, Vueling leans into a polished image. Their crews wear designer uniforms by Spanish fashion houses, cabins are dressed in a subtle and modern color palette, and even the safety videos come with Mediterranean charm. Passengers looking for extra comfort can choose “Space” or “Space One” seats, which offer more legroom and come with added perks, all without losing that air of understated elegance.

For Santorini, Vueling’s strength lies in its timing. Flights from key cities typically depart mid-morning and arrive early enough to catch sunset cocktails on your first day. And thanks to IAG group integration, you can pair your Vueling leg with British Airways or Iberia to build one-stop premium itineraries from cities across North America and Europe.

Vueling Club also earns Avios points, unlocking useful redemption opportunities across the IAG network. Cash fares usually range from $150 to $350 roundtrip in Economy and up to $450 with Space seating. The airline’s TimeFlex fare is especially worthwhile for travelers needing a bit of wiggle room as it offers flexibility without sacrificing the airline’s signature stylish approach. Just watch the carry-on rules. The 22-pound limit is enforced at the gate, so keep your packing light and chic.

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Spain
• You may also like: Beautiful Places in the Mediterranean
• For more reading: Best Airlines to Fly to Barcelona
• Keep reading: Top Things to Do in Greece

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Best Airlines to Fly to Santorini, Greece

If you’re still curious about what airlines fly to Santorini, here are some common questions that might help you decide.

Which airlines fly to Santorini?

Santorini, being a popular tourist destination, is serviced by several airlines. Here are some of the notable ones:

1. Aegean Airlines: Greece’s flagship carrier with extensive European connections.
2. easyJet: A budget-friendly option from various European cities.
3. SWISS: Offering connections via Zurich, especially for North American travelers.
4. RyanAir: Europe’s budget giant connecting several European cities to Santorini.
5. Jet2: Popular among UK travelers, often with package deals.
6. Volotea: A Spanish airline connecting regional European airports to Santorini.
7. Aer Lingus: Bridging the US and Santorini via Dublin.
8. Vueling: Spain’s answer to affordable Mediterranean travel.

What’s the best way to get to Santorini?

Santorini, a stunning island in the Cyclades group in the Aegean Sea, is a popular travel destination known for its breathtaking sunsets, white-washed buildings, and dramatic cliffs. Here’s how you can get to Santorini:

1. By Air:
   • Santorini (Thira) National Airport (JTR): This is the most direct way to reach Santorini. Many European cities offer direct seasonal flights to Santorini, especially during the summer months. Outside of the peak season, you might have to take a connecting flight through Athens.
   • From Athens: There are multiple daily flights from Athens to Santorini, with a flight duration of approximately 45 minutes.
2. By Sea:
   • Ferry from Athens: You can take a ferry from the port of Piraeus in Athens to Santorini. The journey can take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the type of ferry (high-speed or regular). This is a popular option as it allows travelers to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Aegean Sea.
   • Ferry from Other Islands: Santorini is well-connected by ferry routes to many other Greek islands, such as Mykonos, Crete, and Rhodes. This makes island-hopping convenient.
3. Cruise Ship:
   • Many Mediterranean cruises include Santorini as a port of call. If you’re on a cruise, you’ll dock near the island and then take a smaller boat to reach the main town.

What is the cheapest month to fly to Santorini?

Typically, the off-peak season, which is late autumn to early spring (November to March), offers cheap flights to Santorini. However, travelers should note that some amenities and attractions in Santorini might be closed during this period. Moreover, many airlines operate flights to Santorini in the summer months only. This may make it more difficult to find a suitable airline, especially from outside of Europe.

Are there any airlines offering flights to Santorini all year round?

Yes, airlines like Aegean Airlines and RyanAir offer flights to Santorini throughout the year. However, the frequency of flights might be reduced during the off-peak season.

What methods can I use to find the cheapest flights to Santorini?

Finding the best airlines to go to Santorini without breaking the bank requires a mix of strategy, timing, and a bit of luck. Here are some detailed methods to help you snag that deal:

• Comparison Websites: Platforms like Skyscanner, Kayak, and Momondo allow you to compare prices across various airlines. They provide a comprehensive view of available options, ensuring you don’t miss out on any potential deals.
• Set Fare Alerts: Tools like Google Flights or Hopper can notify you when there’s a significant price drop for your desired route. By setting up alerts, you can be informed in real time and book when prices are at their lowest.
• Flexible Dates and Airports: If you can be flexible with your travel dates or even your departure/arrival airports, you might find cheaper options. Some platforms offer a “flexible dates” feature, showing you a calendar or price graph for the month.
• Off-Peak Travel: Traveling during Santorini’s shoulder season (late spring or early autumn) can yield more affordable flight options. While the weather is still pleasant, airlines often reduce prices to attract travelers.
• Loyalty Programs and Credit Card Points: Joining airline loyalty programs can lead to significant savings in the long run. Earning and redeeming points or miles can drastically reduce flight costs. Additionally, certain credit cards offer travel rewards or partnerships with airlines, providing another avenue for savings.
• Consider Package Deals: Some airlines or travel agencies offer package deals that combine flights, accommodation, and sometimes even tours. While this might not always be the cheapest flight option, the overall savings from the package might make it worth considering.

By employing a combination of these methods and being proactive in your search, you can increase your chances of finding an affordable flight to Santorini.

How can I fly to Santorini from the US?

While there are no direct flights from the US to Santorini, several options make the journey smooth:

1. Connecting Flights: Major European hubs like London, Paris, or Athens often have onward flights to Santorini.
2. Aer Lingus: Offers a unique layover in Dublin, bridging the US and Santorini.
3. SWISS: Connects US cities to Santorini via Zurich, providing an opportunity for a Swiss layover.

Which is the best airline in Santorini for luxury travel?

For travelers seeking luxury, Aegean Airlines and SWISS stand out. Both offer premium services, from gourmet meals to spacious seating, ensuring a comfortable journey to Santorini.

Do airlines offer package deals for Santorini travel?

Yes, airlines like Jet2 and Aegean Airlines often have package deals that combine flights, accommodation, and sometimes transfers, providing a comprehensive travel solution.

Is there a direct flight from US to Santorini?

Currently, there are no direct flights from the U.S. to Santorini (Thira) National Airport (JTR). Travelers typically have to connect through a major European hub or Athens to reach Santorini. Common layover cities include Athens, London, Frankfurt, and Istanbul, among others.

Concluding Thoughts on the Best Airlines to Fly to Santorini

Santorini, with its mesmerizing sunsets and iconic blue-domed churches, beckons travelers from all corners of the globe. Choosing among the best airlines to fly into Santorini can make a significant difference in your travel experience. From luxury carriers offering gourmet meals to budget airlines that prioritize affordability, there’s a flight to Santorini for every traveler and every budget.

Research plays a pivotal role in ensuring you get the most value for your money. Utilizing comparison websites, setting fare alerts, and being flexible with your travel dates are just a few strategies to secure the best deals. Loyalty programs and credit card rewards can further enhance savings, turning dream vacations into tangible realities.

For those embarking from specific regions, like the UK or the US, certain airlines offer tailored services. This makes the journey even more seamless. And let’s not forget the allure of package deals, which can simplify the planning process and often provide added value.

In the end, the right airline can elevate your Santorini adventure, ensuring the journey is as memorable as the destination. Here’s to finding the perfect flight and creating unforgettable memories on the enchanting island of Santorini!