trip to santorini greece

21 Things You Need To Know To Plan A Trip To Santorini

Updated On: April 26, 2023

Written By: Pavlos Inglesis

Where on earth is Santorini ? How to get there? Where should you stay? What’s the weather like? How is winter on the island? What’s the best time to visit Santorini after all?

There are a few things you need to know in order to plan your trip to Santorini properly .

BEST HOTEL IN SANTORINI: San Antonio

BUT ALSO CHECK:

For Couples: Canaves Oia
For Families: Nissia
For Sunset Views: White Pearl
For Honeymoon: Andronis
With Private Pool: Katikies
With Caldera Views: Perivolas
Cave Hotel: Divine Cave
Budget: Stelios Place
In Oia: Canaves Epitome
In Fira: Cosmopolitan
In Imerovigli: Astra Suites
In Perissa: Anastasia Princess
In Kamari: Amara Suites

Santorini is not like any other greek island but it’s definitely one of the best greek islands .

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in Santorini Best Hotels in Santorini Best Villas in Santorini Best Santorini Boat Tours

It’s the most visited island in Greece and it requires some proper planning and research to get the best deals in hotels , to do all the amazing things that the island offers and also to make sure that your flights and ferries to Santorini are properly booked.

Get my secrets for Greece and Santorini in your email!

Keep reading…

VERY IMPORTANT TO KNOW :

Santorini is in Greece, Europe: Google Maps
How to Get to Santorini: with a direct flight to Santorini (only from within Europe at the moment and only between April-November) or with a direct flight to Athens, Greece and then a 5hrs/8hrs ferry or a direct 1hr flight from Athens to Santorini ( read the detailed guide )
How Much Ahead do I need to book hotels: at least 8 months; Santorini has become super popular and if you want to visit it in high season (May-October) you must get prepared for high prices and sold out hotels…
Best Website to Book Ferries to Santorini or just check the timetables: Ferryhopper
Where to Stay in Santorini: for the famous views stay in Oia , Fira (capital town) , Imerovigli , Firostefani but for being closer to the beaches stay in Perissa , Perivolos or Kamari (which is also usually less expensive)
Where Are the Best Hotels in Santorini: the most impressive ones with the famous views are in Oia , Imerovigli and Firostefani (but you will be 20 mins drive from any beach)
Best Hotel in Santorini : San Antonio (wow!)
Best Private Villa to rent in Santorini: Anteliz Villa
When is the best time of the year to visit Santorini: July and August are super crowded so better go in June or September when it’s still summer weather but slightly less crowded ( read my weather guide for Santorini )
What can I do in Santorini: beaches , wine-tasting , amazing greek food , greek island hopping (but there are literally hundreds of things to do in Santorini )
What’s the best advice you can give me for Santorini: rent a car or a motorbike! Local buses in Santorini are usually OK but can be unreliable and very crowded in the summer (July-August)
Best Website to rent a car in Santorini: RentalCars
Anything more you can tell me? : keep reading for more…!

RECOMMENDED WEBSITES FOR GREECE:

🛏️ Booking.com is the website with the most available rooms and Private Villas in Athens, Santorini , Mykonos & Crete (more than Airbnb!)

⛴️ Ferryhopper is the best website to book your ferry tickets or check the timetables for Santorini, Mykonos , Crete & all greek islands

🏺 Get Your Guide has the best and largest variety of Tours in Athens and the greek islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete etc)

🚙 Rentalcars is the easiest way to rent a car or a quad for Greece with thousands of available options

✈️ Booking.com Flights has all the available flights to and from the greek islands

🚕 Book Your Driver (Taxi) directly with booking.com’s large and safe platform of available certified drivers

Here is what you need to know about Santorini in details:

1. What is Santorini?

Santorini is a small Greek island that has become one of the most popular travel destinations all over the world.

Many celebrities visit the island every year and it has some of the most unique and luxurious hotels on the planet.

Santorini’s official name in Greek is also Thira or (Thera). In Greek it’s called Σαντορίνη or Θήρα .

You can read everything about Santorini’s fascinating history through the centuries here .

2. Where is Santorini?

Santorini is in Greece which is in the South East part of Europe ( see it on Google Maps ):

3. Where To Stay in Santorini ?

You have to choose what you want from your trip to Santorini and what is a priority for you.

You literally have 2 options:

a. Amazing famous Santorini views (super expensive but not close to the beaches) or

b. Being close to the famous Santorini beaches (much cheaper, but you won’t be having the famous views you see all over instagram)

You can read my super detailed guide: Where to Stay in Santorini

Booking.com is the best site to book hotels for Santorini (and it’s the one that even the Greeks use…).

It is super safe , with real reviews and even the possibility to cancel your booking if you change your mind.

If you want the unique views of caldera and the volcano that Santorini is famous for, then you should stay at Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli or Oia …and also pay the price as these are super expensive hotels.

Get prepared for 3-4 figures per night but also expect to have one of the best views in the world with celebrity style services.

These are the Top 20 Most Luxurious Hotels of Santorini.

These are the 10 Best Hotels in Oia.

Recently, some very impressive hotels have also been built in Akrotiri village .

None of these towns are close to the sea though.

All the hotels there, are hanging from a massive cliff and most have spectacular views and stunning swimming pools.

But no access to a beach unfortunately.

However, if you don’t want to stay in any of the places that you’ve seen in the tourist guides and you want to relax by the sea you can stay at Kamari , Perivolos , Perissa towns.

These beach side towns of Santorini have amazing hotels in much more reasonable prices.

If you stay at a beach hotel in Santorini you get more for your money, but you don’t have the amazing famous volcano views and sunsets (which you can visit anytime you want by the way…).

I also recommend that you have a look at the very picturesque villages of Emporio and Pyrgos .

Especially Pyrgos has some very nice views on the other side of the island (not the caldera and the volcano though) but you will be enjoying some unique sunsets away from the tourist crowds.

If you are a famliy with kids then I strongly recommend you stay at Kamari beach as it is the best for kids with lots of amenities, restaurants in walking distance and a massive beach that can be every kid’s dream!

Best Cheap Hotel in Santorini: Stelios Place
Best Hotel in Imerovigli: Grace Santorini
Best Hotel in Firostefani: Tsitouras Collection
Best Hotel in Oia: Maregio Suites
Best Hotel in Perissa beach: Anastasia Princess
Best Hotel in Perivolos beach: Orabel Suites

This is the rule of thumb to remember for when searching the best area to stay in Santorini:

Fira: the capital of the island, nightclubs, shops, restaurants, buzz

Firostefani: very seclusive and relaxing but still very close to Fira for shops etc

Oia: the most famous and probably the most romantic place to stay in Santorini, not that many shops, no nightlife, but really relaxing atmosphere and some amazing restaurants. Expect tons of tourist masses though, which during the sunset time are everywhere (on the roofs, on the streets, on the walls etc).

Imerovigli: amazing views to the caldera, seclusive, not touristic and still close to Fira where all the buzz and shopping is.

Perissa , Perivolos , Kamari : no views to the volcano but walking distance to the best beaches of Santorini .

4. When Is The Best Time to Visit Santorini ?

High season in Santorini starts from April and ends in October.

Obviously the island is extremely busy during these months but especially in July, August and September you will definitely feel the tourist masses…

Read Also: Santorini Weather Guide: What To Expect Every Month

I have visited the island in so many different periods and months within a year and I figured out what could be the best time to enjoy the most of the island:

The best time to visit Santorini is late September or early October !

The weather will still be fine and not too hot (around 25-30 C) , the sea waters will still be warm (from the summer heat) and most of the tourists would be gone! Happy Days!

That doesn’t mean there is nobody on the island.

Remember: it’s still Santorini!

June is also a very good month to visit Santorini because it’s still early summer , the weather is amazing (though it can get pretty hot with more than 35C sometimes) and the big masses of tourists haven’t arrived yet.

I wouldn’t recommend May though because even though the weather is still very good , the sea water will be a bit chilly and you may not enjoy the beach that much.

Read Also: The Best Time To Visit Santorini

In terms of how crowded the island will be, here is a rough guide :

January : 10% crowded – ( Low Season – many restaurants, hotels and businesses will be closed, beaches will be empty but the island is not “dead”)

February : 10% crowded – ( Low Season – many restaurants, hotels and businesses will be closed, beaches will be empty but the island is not “dead”)

March : 20% crowded – ( Low Season –but slightly more people start to visit the island as the high season approaches, many restaurants, hotels and businesses will be closed or just about to open, beaches will probably be empty but the island is definitely not “dead”)

April : 40% crowded – ( High Season – the beggining of the high season and most restaurants, beach bars, cafes and businesses open in April as it is also the Greek Easter and lots of Greeks visit the island to start preparing for the high season)

May : 70% crowded – ( High Season – All of the businesses of the island will be 100% open and operational but the island is still not full, the beaches are getting busier every day and the weather is awesome)

June : 90% crowded – ( High Season – almost at full capacity but not yet super busy…everything will be open and super fun!)

July: 100% crowded – ( High Season – the heart of the high season and when the island gets super busy and crowded, but still you will have a great time while the weather is super hot – do expect to spend most of your time on the beach or the swimming pool – not as busy as in August though)

August: 110% crowded – ( High Season – the busiest month for Santorini, try to avoid if possible because everything becomes more complicated adn takes more time)

September : 90% crowded – ( HIgh Season – it will still feel like the long tail of Aigust some times but it will get less busy at the end of the month – weather still feels like summer! See also below)

October : 70% crowded ( High Season – the weather gets colder but you can still possibly enjoy a swim in the sea or the pool – for many of the businesses October is their last operational month)

November: 30% crowded ( Low Season – the early days of winter and the month where the weather gets considerably colder – many businesses, hotels and restaurants might be closed)

December: 10% crowded ( Low Season – the heart of the low season and one of the coldest months in Santorini, no swimming, many closed businesses but always an amazing landscape and wild beauty)

5. How To Get To Santorini ?

If you live anywhere outside of Europe (and definuitely if you are from the US) you have to fly to Athens first (the capital of Greece) and then take either a 40mins flight from Athens to Santorini or a 5 to 8 hours ferry (there is a slow/cheap ferry and a faster/more expensive ferry from Athens to Santorini).

Read Also: How to Get From Athens to Santorini

Read Also: How To Get From Athens to Mykonos

If you live in Europe, there are direct flights from some European cities to Santorini.

Most of these direct flights to Santorini run seasonally between May-October as this the hot season for Santorini.

If you take a direct flight to Santorini, you won’t see any of Athens which is the biggest Greek city and undoubtedly the city with the most archaeological and cultural interest in Greece and in Europe.

If you are already in Athens you can just book your ferry tickets to Santorini from Ferryhopper .

In my honest opinion, a ferry can be nice if it’s your first time in Greece, as you get to see the beautiful blue waters of the Aegean Sea but you will be wasting 5-8hrs on the boat which you could better spend on Santorini.

Best Website to Book Ferry Boat tickets: Ferryhopper

6. How To Book flight and ferry tickets to Santorini?

Booking.com Flights has all the available flight options for Santorini and it will show you all the available flights from Athens to Santorini or from any other major European cities to Santorini.

Santorini’s airport code is JTR (Santorini’s official name is Thira or Thera).

In order to reach Santorini via ferry boat, you can use the Ferryhopper website, which gives you the updated prices and schedules for all ferries connecting Athens with Santorini .

Best Website for Flights to Santorini: Booking.com Flights (Airport Code: JTR)

7. Are There Any Direct Flights to Santorini ?

There are no direct flights to Santorini from the USA, Canada or Australia.

But there are direct flights to Santorini from almost all major European cities like Paris, London, Amsterdam, Madrid, Barcelona, Rome.

VERY IMPORTANT TO KNOW: The direct flights from major European cities to Santorini DO NOT RUN ALL YEAR ROUND but only between May and October usually. If you are visiting Santorini in the low season (November-April) you might only have the option to fly to Athens and then take a 45mins flight to Santorini (check Booking.com Flights for all the available options)

So, basically your options are:

Fly to a major European city and then take a direct flight to Santorini (check Booking.com Flights )
Fly to Athens (Greece’s capital) and then take either a 5-8hrs ferry ( book it here ) or a direct 45mins direct flight to Santorini ( book it here )

8. What Is The Caldera?

Santorini is a volcanic island.

To be more precise it is an active volcano!

Thousands of years ago the centre part of the island collapsed into the sea creating a unique open sea lagoon.

Caldera is the sea lagoon that has been created since then.

Here is an amazing video showing what happened:

If you want to stay at an area overlooking the caldera and the famous volcano views with the amazing sunsets, then get you should stay at one of the following areas:

Firostefani

VERY IMPORTANT TO KNOW: if you are staying at Perissa, Perivolos or Kamari you won’t have the famous views but you will be close to the beaches. If you have a caldera view then you won’t be close the beaches. Unfortuantely, you cannot have both in Santorini!

9. How Many Days Should You Spend in Santorini?

Santorini is a relatively small Greek island but there are so many things to see and do that the time will never be enough!

That applies to many of the best islands in Greece too, as they are all amazing destinations.

My suggestion is that no matter how many days you will spend in Greece or on the greek islands in particular, try to spend 50% of your time in Santorini. In reality, you need at least 4 nights in Santorini.

Read Also: How Many Days Do You Really Need in Santorini ?

So, if you want to stay 10 days in Greece, try to spend at least 5 days in Santorini and then visit other Greek islands. You won’t regret it…

Is a Day Trip from Athens to Santorini possible?

Yes, it is.

Also, a day trip from Athens to Cairo is possible, to check the pyramids.

That doesn’t mean you should do it, though !

Jokes aside, there is no point of rushing such a day trip.

It will extremely tiring, expensive and at the end you would have only ticked a box on your to do list.

Take things easy and enjoy every trip you make, if possible.

It is better to explore more of Athens if you only have 1 day spare , than visiting Santorini in a rush.

There are also other amazing daytrips you can do from Athens, where you can actually visit small islands that are on 1-hr ferry trip from Athens (like Hydra, Spetses or Poros). These are all lovely places and perfect locations for a daytrip from Athens.

10. Santorini or Mykonos ?

This is a dilemma that any people have.

They are both amazing islands but:

Mykonos is quite a party island with very nice and long sandy beaches (no sandy beaches in Santorini unfortunately).

It’s been a celebrities holiday place since the 60’s and some of the best summer clubs and bars of Europe are there. It is a very beautiful place indeed and it can also be a family and relaxing place.

You don’t have to go the parties and the clubs.

Think of Mykonos like the “Ibiza of Greece” even though there are some quiet areas on the island to be honest.

Santorini is a completely different place. A more romantic one. A more relaxing one.

It’s a place where you will drink amazing wine but you won’t necessarily get drunk!

However, there is still some serious nightlife in Santorini as well.

You can also read my detailed comparison: Mykonos or Santorini

Read Also: How To Get From Santorini to Mykonos

So, to sum it up:

If you only have 3-4 days for greek islands then spend all of them in Santorini
If it’s your first time in Greece then try to visit both but give priority to Santorini as the landscape is unique
If you want golden sand beaches then Mykonos has much better beaches than Santorini
If you want proper clubbing and nightlife then Mykonos is much better than Santorini (though Santorini’s nightlife is really good too)
If you want to be closer to Athens then Mykonos is closer to Athens
If you want to be surrounded by world class celebrities then Mykonos is your place
If you are interested in shopping then Mykonos is better
If you want to have more options in restaurants then Mykonos is better
If you only care about adventurous things to do then Santorini is your place
If you are interested in amazing wine and wineries then Santorini is your place
If you want a more romantic place then Santorini is your ideal destination

11. Best Greek Islands Near Santorini

With all those international direct flights to Santorini , you can certainly use the island for some greek island hopping!

There are many greek islands you can visit from Santorini but not all are connected with a ferry boat or a flight, so you have to limit your options.

Read Also: Best Greek Islands to Visit from Santorini

These are the greek islands you can visit from Santorini:

Anafi (the only one that a daytrip is possible)
Ios (2hrs ferry from Santorini)
Naxos (3 hrs ferry from Santorini)
Mykonos (2 hrs ferry from Santorini)
Folegandros (1 hr ferry from Santorini)
Milos (2 hrs ferry from Santorini)
Paros (2 hrs ferry from Santorini)

Unfortunately, IT IS NOT ADVISABLE to visit the following islands from Santorini:

Crete (it is a very big island and you need at least a week and a car to go around)
Corfu (it’s on the other side of Greece and you need to go through Athens and then take another flight)
Zakynthos/Zante (same as Corfu)
Rhodes (again, very far away and a pretty big island where you need to spend at least a week)

Unfortunately the only way to visit other greek islands from Santorini (apart from a flight that runs only in the summer months between Santorini-Mykonos and not every day) is to take a ferry boat.

The best way to plan your greek island hopping is to check the ferry timetables online and then plan ahead (it is also advisable to book the tickets online before you arrive in Santorini because they sell out in the hot summer season May-September):

Best Website to Book Ferry Boat tickets between greek islands: Ferryhopper

12. Best Sunset Views in Santorini

Santorini’s sunset are famous all over the world.

The Best Sunset Views are at the following locations which overlook the caldera as well and if that is your priority then you should definitely stay at one of them:

You should always have in mind that these areas are also the most expensive in terms of accommodation and restaurants (for a good reason…).

But if you just want to view the most amazing sunsets then there are a few other spots with equally amazing views (with Google Maps links to find them):

Franco’s Cafe Pyrgos
Katharos Lounge
Prophet Ilias Mountain
Famous heart shaped rock
Tranquilo Beach Bar
Kamari Beach

13. How To Rent A Quad in Santorini ?

Driving a quad in Santorini is an extremely fun thing to do and it will definitely give you more flexibility than taking the local Santorini bus .

But you have to be aware that it is not the safest thing to drive.

You have to be extremely careful with driving an ATV (or quad as they called) especially during the summer months in Santorini where the island is super crowded.

14. Money in Santorini. Do I Need Cash ?

There is no shortage of ATM cash machines where your VISA and Mastercard can be accepted to withdraw money.

You should always contact your bank to find out what the charges will be.

VERY IMPORTANT TO KNOW: 90% of the times your credit or debit card will be accepted at the business you are paying but cash is always the best way to pay in Greece and in Santorini. You should always have some cash with you while in Santorini

The BEST THING you can do (that I have recently discovered) for travel money is to set up an account with Wise and just use their Mastercard.

Wise is used all over the world by millions of people and they have by far the best exchange rates than any bank.

So , these are the things you should know about your money in Santorini:

There are hundreds of ATMs cash machines on Santorini and you won’t have any issues withdrawing money (euros in particular); there is a daily limit though on how much you can withdraw from a cash machine
Check with your bank what will the charges be for travel money (or check solutions like Wise or Revolut cards which are super reliable and easy to use)
You should always have some cash with you as some businesses may have “broken card machines”…
Card machines in Santorini (and in Greece) are chip and pin (not swipe)
American Express IS NOT ACCEPTED IN GREECE

15. Can I move around with the local buses in Santorini?

The local buses in Santorini are really good and it is definitely the cheapest way to move around in Santorini.

Check Here the timetables for the local buses of Santorini to all places around the island.

There are buses that run throughout the island and depending on where you go the ticket costs from 1.80 euros to 2.80 euros (always pay with cash – no cards accepted on the buses !) .

The central bus station of Santorini is at Fira and it is here on Google Maps .

Read Also: How To Get Around in Santorini

Here is how long it takes for the local bus to get around the island:

16. How To Rent A Car in Santorini ?

Renting a car in Santorini will give you the flexibility to explore the island at your own pace and it is also a much safer option than a quad .

It is the advice I alwys give to people visitin ghte island for more than 2-3 days.

The best website to book a car for Santorini is Rentalcars.com as it has all the available options and almost all of the rental companeis in Santorini now operate through that. It is safe and super reliable.

Here are a few things to be aware for driving in Santorini:

Best Website to rent a car in Santorini : Rentalcars.com
Driving in Santorini is on the right side of the road (like USA)
You need an international driver’s license for Santorini and for Greece. If you have an EU license you don’t need an international license as an EU license is accepted everywhere in EU.
Renting a car could cost you about 40-50 euros per day during the high season (a quad might also cost you around 30-40 euros…)
Driving in Santorini can be tricky for some people who are not used to narrow roads but in general you shouldn’t worry about it too much
Parking is an issue on the island (especially in the very touristic areas like Oia and Fira where you could park far away from where you are actually going…)
DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE! That applies to the wineasting you might do while in Santorini. Better take the taxi or the local bus to go back home…(there are lots of police patrols all over the island too)

17. What Are The Best Boat Tours in Santorini ?

A sunset cruise or a volcano cruise is easily one of the best things you can do on Santorini .

I always advise people to do a half day cruise as the experience is amazing.

Depending on which one you choose, you may get delicious seafood on board, you may get some tour guiding, you may hop off the active volcano (make sure you bring some trekking shoes and you may also swim at the hot volcanic springs!

It’s always also advisable to book well in advance online as this guarantees you will get a ticket (especially during the summer months of June-September)

These are the Best Sunset and Volcano Cruises you can book:

5-hr Catamaran Cruise
Santorini Red Catamaran Cruise with Drinks and Meals
1-Day Volcano and Sunset Cruise
Small Group Catamaran Cruise (morning or sunset)

18. What Are The Best Things To Do in Santorini ?

The best thing about Santorini is that it offers lots of things to do compared to Mykonos for example or other greek islands.

Read Also the Complete Guide: 31 Unique Things To Do in Santorini

In a nutshell the Best Things you can do in Santorini are:

Visit Oia (and watch the famous sunset; you won’t be alone though…)
Take a Wine Tour (like this one )
Take a Sunset or Volcano Cruise (like this one )
Hike from Fira to Oia
Swim at one the best beaches of Santorini
Watch a movie under the stars at Kamari Open Air Cinema ( Google Maps )
Visit the Archaeological Prehistoric Ruins of Akrotiri ( Google Maps )
Explore the nightlife of Santorini
Eat at the following restaurants: Mezzo (for the views), Metaksy Mas (for the food), Avocado (for the food) , Aroma Avlis (for the winery), Erotokritos (for the bakery-not an actual restaurant!), Katina (for the fresh fish)
Wander the streets of Fira for endless shopping
Visit Ammoudi bay
Go on a greek cooking class and wine tour

19. What Are The Best Wineries and Wine Tours in Santorini?

Wine tasting and a guided wine tour is one of the best things you can do while on Santorini.

These are the best wine tours of the island:

Santorini Half-Day Wine Adventure Tour
Santorini 4-hour Sunset Wine Tour
Santorini Cooking Class and Wine Tour

Though taking a guided tour is highly advisable, as you won’t be wasting much time on searching for all the info and the directions and you will actually be visiting more than one winery without having to drive (driving and drinking wine is also not advisable…), you can certainly visit the best wineries of Santorini by yourself.

Read Also Our Detailed Guide: Best Wineries of Santorini

The best wineries of Santorini (with google maps links) are:

Santowines Winery (if you only have time for one winery then make it this one)
Venetsanos Winery (the 2nd best choice)
Estate Argyros Winery
Domaine Sigalas
Koutsoyannopoulos Winery and Wine Museum
Gavalas Winery
Boutari Winery
Art Space Winery
Hadjidakis Winery
Artemis Karmolegkos Winery
Canava Roussos
Gaia Winery
Vassaltis Winery

20. Shopping in Santorini. Any good?

If you want to shop …then Fira town is the place to be.

There are hundreds of souvenir shops, art galleries and traditional greek products shops at Fira.

Oia also has a selection of some very interesting art and handcraft shops as well.

It also has this amazing bookstore but unfortunately it has shut down recently as I found out.

In terms of grocery stores and supermarkets you will find big ones outside of the towns (in Fira mainly) and smaller ones inside the towns.

21. Is Santorini family and kids-friendly? Is it Safe?

Santorini (and Greece) are extremely kids and family friendly .

The best thing you can do while visiting Santorini with kids is to stay closer to the beaches of Perissa , Perivolos and Kamari as they all have lots of amenities.

The best thing a kid can do in Santorini is to play at the beach but you have to be careful as the high temperatures of the greek summer need extra skin protection.

Also, the black sand beaches of Perissa and Kamari can get very hot during mid-day and that requires shoes or flip flops to be worn all the time!

Some of the most exclusive hotels in Santorini , clearly state that they won’t accept kids but it is always impoertant to check that in advance with your hotel if it’s not clear.

You can certainly stay at Firostefani or Fira and Oia but I truly believe a kid would have much more fun if she is closer to the beach.

The Best Family Hotels in Santorini are:

Tsitouras Collection
Aqua Blue Beach Hotel
Tamarix Del Mar
Gabbiano Hotel

In regards to how safe Santorini is , there is little to almost zero crime in general but you should always be careful wherever you travel in the world. Common sense applies to everything and everywhere.

So, there you have them. A trip to Santorini can be one of the most amazing experiences in your life so you really need to get well prepared as it can also be costly. It’s extremely easy to book your flights, your ferries, your accomodation and even the things you want to do on the island way in advance. It is highly advisable to book everything before you arrive on the island as Santorini is in high demand the last 20 years and it will keep on being like this for ever. Hopefully my tips above will help you plan your trip much better, but if you feel you are still in a limbo then make sure you visit our extremely helpful closed Facebook Group and many people who have visited the island in the past would be able to help you!

🚕 Book Your Driver (Taxi) directly with booking.com's large and safe platform of available certified drivers

SUBSCRIBE to my Youtube Channel for Updated Guides and Videos for the Greek Islands!

TOP RATED HOTELS IN:

Oia: Maregio Suites Fira: Cosmopolitan Suites Imerovigli: Grace Santorini Firostefani: Tsitouras Perivolos: Orabel Suites Perissa: Anastasia Princess Kamari: Sunrise Studios

TOP RATED VILLAS IN:

Oia: Anemi House

Fira: Anteliz Villa

Kamari: Eolia Villa

Pyrgos: Sensation Villa

Akrotiri: Cavo Ventus

Firostefani: Villa Aura

Imerovigli: Grace Villa

BEST THINGS TO DO IN SANTORINI:

🌄 Sunset Cruise with Meals and Drinks

🍷 Half-Day Wine Adventure Tour

🥾 Hike the path from Fira to Oia

ALL AVAILABLE FERRIES TO GREEK ISLANDS:

Readers said:.

“Just added this to my favourites!”

“I don’t know if I will have to go anywhere else for information!”

“Better than a travel guide!”

My name is Pavlos and I come from the beautiful country called Greece. You can follow me on Twitter here and I will try to do my best to respond to you personally. This is my blog to help you plan your next holidays to Greece and the greek islands, whether it is Santorini, Mykonos, Crete or even Athens. I was actually born in Athens and I have been to almost all of the greek islands and pretty much most of mainland Greece. I know the ins and outs of my country and hopefully my travel blog will help you make the most of your holidays.

Booking.com i s the website with the most available rooms and Private Villas in Athens, Santorini , Mykonos & Crete (more than Airbnb!)

Ferryhopper is the best website to book your ferry tickets or check the timetables for Santorini, Mykonos , Crete & all greek islands

Get Your Guide has the best and largest variety of Tours in Athens and the greek islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete etc)

Rentalcars is the easiest way to rent a car or a quad for Greece with thousands of available options

Booking.com Flights has all the available flights to and from the greek islands

Santorini Secrets

Santorini Travel Guide

Courtesy of Artie Photography (Artie Ng) | Getty Images

Why Go To Santorini

A massive volcanic eruption around 1650 B.C. forced the center of what was then a single island to implode and succumb to the sea. Some say that this was the original home of the lost city of Atlantis, which long ago disappeared into the ocean's depths. Whatever remains of this mythological metropolis is now guarded by beautiful beaches and stately whitewashed homes. Today, Santorini consists of two inhabited islands and several islets. Most visitors spend their time on Thira (the archipelago's largest island), which is home to Santorini's major towns, including Fira and Oia. Sleepy Thirassia makes for a relaxing daytrip too. And don't count out the quieter islands: Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni are worth exploring.

Your first order of business in Santorini is to hit the colorful beaches – the black and red sands make for a memorable visit. Next up, indulge in the archaeological delights of the impressively preserved Ancient Akrotiri or hike to Ancient Thera to see the ruins of three empires, including the Romans. From there, catch a breathtaking view of the caldera, a brilliant turquoise pool of water that serves as the nucleus for the varied isles of this archipelago. Some would say you only need a day to enjoy these islands' charms (they are a popular port of call for cruise ships ), but to really drink in all Santorini has to offer, you'll need a few days to a week. Then you'll have plenty of time to learn there's more to these comely dots of the Cyclades than meets the eye.

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

# 2 in Which Greek Island Should You Visit? Our 2024 Top Picks
# 2 in Best Places to Visit in September 2024
# 3 in Best Honeymoons in Europe for 2024

See All 8 Rankings

Best of Santorini

Best hotels in santorini.

# 1 in Katikies Santorini
# 2 in Andronis Luxury Suites
# 3 in Andronis Boutique Hotel

Best Things to Do in Santorini

# 1 in Kamari Beach
# 2 in Amoudi Bay
# 3 in Fira to Oia Hike

Popular Tours

Santorini Classic Catamaran Cruise with Meal Drinks and Transfers

(2654 reviews)

from $ 103.54

Santorini Luxury Caldera Cruise with Full Greek Meal and Sunset

(1387 reviews)

from $ 114.44

Private Tailor-Made Tour- Explore Santorini with comfort & style

(305 reviews)

from $ 130.46

Santorini Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Santorini is from September to October and April to May when the weather is warm and the crowds are scarce. Like all of the Cyclades, Santorini welcomes the most visitors during the summer, so you'll need to make your reservations months in advance if you plan on visiting anytime from June through August. Looking for a bargain? Try winter, when room rates tend to plummet. Keep in mind that this season's average highs only reach the 50s (not good for sunbathing) and the region sees plenty of precipitation. However, all that rain does make for a very flowery (and warm) spring season. Crowds will be at a low in the spring as well, though tourists will begin invading the islands come May.

Weather in Santorini

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Drink up Santorini's rich volcanic soil is ideal for growing grapes, making wine the beverage of choice here. Head to a local taverna to try some of the best.

Don't go to the beach barefoot Santorini's beaches primarily made up of small rocks instead of sand, making them extremely hot after a couple hours in the sun. To avoid burns, make sure to wear sandals or water shoes.

Santorini isn't all cliffs The pictures you see of Santorini situated high on the cliffs are actually on the west coast of the island. The east coast, including Kamari and Perissa, are generally flat.

How to Save Money in Santorini

Vacation in the shoulder seasons The fall and spring are known for warm weather, but not as many tourists take advantage of it compared to summer. You can find some great deals on hotels if you skirt the summer crowds.

Hungry? Head inland While the thought of munching on fresh Greek fare beachfront or cliffside is no doubt tempting, these restaurants may charge higher prices solely for the location. Definitely take advantage of these scenic restaurants, but balance it out by heading inland, where you'll likely find more budget-friendly menus.

Stay on the east coast Hotels along the caldera in towns like the popular Oia tend to attract the most travelers, especially honeymooners. You'll find much more reasonably priced rooms in southeastern towns like Kamari and Perissa.

Culture & Customs

Greek is the official language, though considering the large influx of visitors the island receives (as many as 10,000 cruise ship tourists alone come ashore daily), you're more likely to run into English-speaking Greeks than not, especially in tourist areas. Understanding body language here though is key. Be very aware of your gestures. For example, using the thumb and index finger to signal "OK" is offensive, as is holding up your palm to anyone. If you want to wave goodbye, make sure your palm is facing you. As for indicating nodding your head to indicate 'yes' and shaking your head to indicate 'no.' Greeks do it differently. A slight downward means 'yes' while a slight upward nod means 'no.' These gestures are often subtle and quick, making it hard for foreigners to understand. The best thing to do is avoid trying to communicate with gestures here to avoid getting lost in body language translation.

Greeks are known to be very friendly, especially when meeting new people. When meeting a Greek in a social situation, shaking hands is customary. Two kisses, one exchanged on each cheek, is the norm when with acquaintances. Greeks tend to be very open and become deeply engaged when in conversation. They have also been known to get personal, fast. If you're uncomfortable with the dialogue, such as talking about sensitive subjects such as politics or if you're being asked too personal questions, simply try to change the subject. Lateness is also common here. If you have plans with Greeks, expect them to be at least 15 minutes late.

Shorts and T-shirts are acceptable when walking around the towns or the beaches, some of which are clothing optional. Dress continues to be casual even in restaurants, but Greeks tend to dress up a little more nicely when dining out in the evenings. Other than on the beach, never waltz into a restaurant or public space in your bathing suit or barefoot, even along a beachfront promenade.

Santorini's currency is the euro. Since the euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates, be sure to check what the current exchange rate is before you go. Major credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops. When eating at a restaurant, a service charge may be included. As such, tipping isn't commonplace. Also, keep in mind the plumbing system in Santorini is not stellar – when at a hotel or restaurant, throw any used toilet paper in the waste basket rather than flushing it down the toilet to avoid any potentially embarrassing flooding situations.

What to Eat

While in Santorini, take full advantage of the fresh Greek fare. The island's climate in combination with its volcanic soil enhance flavors of the fruits and vegetables grown here. As such, Santorini has made a name for itself in the wine community, making a visit to one of the island's wineries a top attraction. In addition to delectable grapes, make sure cherry tomatoes (especially sun-dried), capers and white eggplant are part of one or more of your meals during your time in Santorini. The sweetness and white color of the eggplants here are a direct result of being grown in volcanic soil. Cherry tomatoes are another fruit that can attribute their taste to the unique soil. If you like eggplant, then you'll no doubt enjoy moussaka , a Greek-style lasagna that features layered eggplant, minced meat, fixins and spices topped with béchamel sauce. Other must-try Greek specialties include anything with olives and olive oil, especially a traditional Greek salad, as well as fava, a traditional dip made of fava bean puree.

Greeks are all about their dips. Along with fava and the famous tzatziki sauce (yogurt, cucumber and garlic), another must-try and uber-traditional dip is taramasalata, made from smoked fish roe and mixed with olive oil and lemon juice. Other popular small bites include dolmades and keftedes . Regularly served before meals, dolmades are seasoned rice often mixed with meat or vegetables and wrapped entirely in a grape or vine leaf. Keftedes are fritters commonly mixed with cherry tomatoes (tomatokeftedes) or grated zucchini (kolokithokeftedes). If you're after something heartier, you're in luck: The island, as well as the whole of Greece, have a penchant for grilled meats. Souvlaki, or seasoned skewered meat, often topped with tzatziki, can be found all over. Octopus, which you'll likely find hanging by its tentacles outside seaside tavernas, are also popular. And, of course, you can't leave without grabbing a gyro. Whatever you choose to eat, make room for dessert – baklava , a filo pastry layered with honey and ground nuts and loukoumades , or deep-fried donut holes sprinkled with hot honey and cinnamon, are local favorites.

You can find everything from quick gyros to casual eateries to upscale restaurants throughout Santorini. Head to Restaurant 1800 in Oia for fine dining and expertly presented Mediterranean cuisine. If you can, snag a table on the roof to enjoy sweeping views of the island's cliffs. Selene is another upscale option, conveniently located in Pyrgros, which houses a number of wineries. In Fira, the hundreds-year-old Taverna Nikolas is as traditional as it gets, offering classic Greek dishes at affordable prices. For a little romance, enjoy a candle-lit dinner at the edge of the caldera at Ambrosia .

Santorini is pretty safe. Travelers report feeling comfortable walking around the streets both day and night. Even pickpocketing is few and far between here. In terms of getting around, there are not many sidewalks in Santorini, so be careful when walking the streets as you may need to dodge the occasional wayward, speedy scooter. Use caution when navigating Santorini's beaches as well. Most of if not all of the beaches are composed of small rocks rather than sand, and during the summer, can become too hot for bare feet to touch. Bring with you sandals to wear on the sand or water shoes to avoid burns. Tap water here is not safe to drink.

Getting Around Santorini

The best way to get around Santorini is on foot or by bus. You'll see that it's easy to walk around the tiny seaside towns, but the bus is best to get from one town to another. There are KTEL bus routes from Fira (the capital city) to many different destinations around the main island. KTEL also services the Santorini (Thira) Island National Airport (JTR), but you might find it easier to rely on a cab to get you into town. If you're planning to do a little island hopping, you can catch a ferry from Athinios (about 5 miles south of Fira).

Entry & Exit Requirements

To enter Greece, you must have a passport that will be valid for your stay and for at least six months after. You won't need a visa, however, unless you're planning to stay longer than 90 days. Visit the U.S. State Department's website for more information on entry and exit requirements.

The neighborhood of Oia is what you often see in photos of Santorini. The neighborhood is filled to the brim with white- and pastel-colored buildings cascading down cliffsides. Considering its popularity and bounty of luxurious hotels, staying here will cost you a pretty penny.

Explore More of Santorini

Things To Do

Best hotels.

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

Santorini Greece Travel Guide & Best Things To Do

The little island of Santorini Greece is famous for its photogenic old white-and-blue buildings, beautiful high end hotels with infinity pools, and sweeping views of the ocean.

Santorini island is almost synonymous with luxury nowadays, but it’s also possible to travel Santorini on a budget, and many of the best things to do in Santorini are free, such as strolling the historic towns, taking pictures, relaxing on the beach, and seeing the sunset.

A trip to the Greek islands wouldn’t be complete without seeing Santorini for at least a few days, and it’s easier than ever to get there from Athens and other major cities in Europe.

This Santorini travel guide will explain how to get there, where to stay, which transport options and tour packages to use, and some of the best things to do in Santorini Greece. I’ve also included a handy Santorini island map for your trip planning!

Table of Contents show Where To Stay In Santorini Best Santorini Tours Where Is Santorini Island? How To Get To Santorini Greece Transport: How To Get Around On Santorini Best Things To Do In Santorini Greece 1. Oia Village 2. Fira Village 3. Imerovigli Village 4. Perissa Beach More Things To Do In Santorini Greece 5. Megalochori 6. Pyrgos 7. Prophet Elias Mountain 8. Akrotiri Lighthouse 9. Akrotiri Museum Best Santorini Beaches Santorini Island Map Best Sunrise / Sunset Spots In Santorini Greece Other Santorini Tips Is Santorini Safe? Santorini On A Budget — Is It Possible? How Long To Stay In Santorini Greece Santorini Greece Itinerary Best Time To Visit Santorini Greece Santorini Hotels More Greece Travel Guides

Where To Stay In Santorini

Absolute Bliss

Athina Suites

Kalya Suites

Hyperion Suites

Best Santorini Tours

First of all, if you only have a short stay in Santorini, such as a few days or less, then a day tour can be a great way to see the island.

We recommend GetYourGuide for Santorini tours! They have high rated private tours or shared tours that go to a bunch of the best sights like Oia, Pyrgos, and Perissa.

You can also hire a private photographer to take pictures of you in a flowing dress, with the Santorini buildings and seascape in the background, like you always see on Instagram.

We’ve used this company for lots of day tours and activities around the world, and they’re great! Highly recommended.

Book Now: Santorini Greece Private Tour / Dress Photoshoot

Where Is Santorini Island?

Santorini is an island located in the Aegean Sea, southeast of mainland Greece. The distance from Athens to Santorini is about 230 kilometers (140 miles) as the plane flies.

Although it’s just one of about 30 main islands that make up the Cyclades group of Greek islands, Santorini is easily the most famous island in the group, and it’s probably the most famous island in the country of Greece!

Santorini had a volcanic origin, and there are still some natural hot springs and other traces of volcanic activity around the caldera, which can be interesting to see.

Santorini Greece Travel Guide Best Things To Do In Santorini Island Oia

Walking around Oia town — one of the best things to do in Santorini Greece!

How To Get To Santorini Greece

Santorini island can be reached by flight or ferry.

Flying to Santorini is the easiest, fastest, and most expensive (but recommended) way to get there. The Santorini airport (JTR) is served by daily nonstop flights from Athens, as well as some international cities like Frankfurt, London, and Rome.

The flight time to Santorini from Athens is 45 minutes, and it costs anywhere from 50 to 100 Euros for a one way ticket with Aegean/Olympic Air or Sky Express.

The best airline to use is Aegean (or its subsidiary Olympic Air) instead of Sky Express if you have a choice, but any of them are fine. Free checked baggage is usually included in the ticket prices.

Shop Now: Santorini flights at Skyscanner

Santorini Travel Guide

Taking the ferry to Santorini from Athens is a bit cheaper than flying, but it’s more complicated and quite a bit slower.

You first have to go to the harbor at Piraeus or Rafina, and then hop on the ferry there. Cost is between 50 and 90 Euros depending on what you select. The boat ride to Santorini takes around 5 hours with the fast ferries, or more than 8 hours with the slow ferries.

If you’re interested in doing some island hopping in Greece and you want to see more than just Santorini, you can also mix up the itinerary a bit.

For example, you can fly into Santorini for a few days, take the ferry to Mykonos, and then fly from Mykonos back to Athens. That can be a great option!

Transport: How To Get Around On Santorini

The towns in Santorini (such as Oia and Fira) are small enough to be walkable by foot for restaurants and most other things, but if you want to do some exploring outside of town you’ll need transport.

The bus can be a great way to get around in Santorini on a budget, and there are stations in all of the important places on the island, with the main hub being Fira. The bus in Santorini is cheap and especially easy to use in the summer months when Greece is busy with tourists. During the low season months, there aren’t as many connections so it may not always be ideal.

For short distance trips near town, there’s no Uber but you can hire a taxi. We used Welcome Pickups for our airport transfers in Santorini, and had a great experience. They have clean cars and safe drivers who will bring you from the airport to your hotel, and vice versa.

Another good way to get around on Santorini island is by renting a car or ATV (4 wheeler). There are many companies offering car rentals on the island, but we recommend DiscoverCars !

Fira views — one of the best things to do in Santorini Greece

Driving in Santorini is a little stressful, but not too hard, and most of the roads are in good condition. One of the main difficulties is finding parking. It’s pretty scarce since Santorini is a small island.

The other challenge is driving in the towns, where there’s more traffic and the roads are narrow, with lots of cars parked on both sides. Drive slowly in town and stay alert. Once you get out of town, the roads are smooth sailing for the most part.

Santorini Greece Travel Guide Best Things To Do In Santorini Island Imerovigli Flowers

Best Things To Do In Santorini Greece

1. oia village.

Oia village (pronounced ‘ee-yuh’) has some of the most beautiful views and accommodation in Santorini, with historic churches, colorful flowers, and epic ocean views.

This is the place you always see in the famous postcard photos of Santorini Greece. There are a lot of things to see and do in Oia, and it probably has more photo spots than any other area of Santorini.

The main photo spot you can’t miss is the iconic view at Oia Castle , where you can see pretty much the whole town of Oia, with its whitewashed windmills and tightly packed buildings.

This is a very popular sunset spot, but we also liked it during the day when it’s less crowded.

The iconic view from Oia Castle in Santorini Greece

Another good photo spot in Oia is the view overlooking the iconic three blue domes of Santorini.

You can take some amazing pictures of these churches from either side, although you’ll have to wait in line a bit since it’s so popular. Remember to give photographers priority since their clients are paying to get special pictures.

When you get done exploring Oia town, walk down to Ammoudi Bay to see the fish tavernas and the Mediterranean Sea up close.

Where To Stay In Oia: Alexander’s Suites (Budget) or La Perla Villas (Luxury)

2. Fira Village

Fira is the capital of Santorini Greece, and it’s also one of the main tourist areas on the island.

Like Oia, it has stunning views of the caldera, and lots of luxury accommodation and scenic restaurants to go with it. One of the main photo spots in Fira is the view overlooking the iconic three bells of Fira .

However, our favorite spot in town was above the Church of St. John the Theologian . It’s a wonderful old building with an equally amazing background.

Fira is the main bus hub of Santorini Greece, so it’s very easy to reach from anywhere on the island. You can even walk or hike from Fira to Imerovigli (or vice versa) in less than 30 minutes.

Where To Stay In Fira: Bedspot Hostel (Budget) or Athina Suites (Luxury)

3. Imerovigli Village

The village of Imerovigli is beautiful and underrated. In some ways, it has the best of both worlds in Santorini! It’s arguably just as nice as Oia or Fira, but it’s also less crowded with tourists.

If you enjoy hiking, you can do the short trek out to Skaros Rock , which has great views of Imerovigli and the ruins of a Venetian Castle built in 1207 by Marco Sanudo, who was then ruler of all the Cyclades islands. Go a bit further to see the Theoskepasti Church .

From Imerovigli, you can even walk or hike to Fira (or vice versa) in less than 30 minutes, so it’s easy to visit Fira and access the main bus station there even if you’re staying in Imerovigli.

Where To Stay In Imerovigli: Casa Bianca (Budget) or Absolute Bliss (Luxury)

Santorini Greece Travel Guide Best Things To Do In Santorini Island Imerovigli

Panagia Theoskepasti Chapel

4. Perissa Beach

Perissa is a laid back area in Santorini with a black sand beach that stretches more than 3 kilometers (2 miles) long, plus it has lots of hotels and restaurants near the beachfront.

Together with the Kamari area, Perissa is known for being one of the most affordable areas of Santorini. This is a great place to eat cheap Greek food and shop for souvenirs. We had some amazingly inexpensive gyros here!

The beach at Perissa was also one of our favorites on the island of Santorini. For sightseeing, you can take some pictures of the Church of the Holy Cross near the bus station.

Early morning at Perissa Beach

If you’re interested in hiking in Santorini, you can climb up to the monastery on the side of the mountain near Perissa ( Chapel of Panagia Katefiani ).

It’s also possible to reach the ruins of Ancient Thera by this route, although you’ll be going all the way to the top of the mountain, so remember to bring a hat and water!

There is accommodation for every budget in the Perissa area. Even though it has some of the cheapest hotels in Santorini island, there are also luxury options as well.

Where To Stay In Perissa: Villa Dima (Budget) or Anastasia Princess (Luxury)

Santorini Greece Travel Guide Best Things To Do In Santorini Island Perissa Church Holy Cross

Church of the Holy Cross in Perissa, Santorini

More Things To Do In Santorini Greece

These are some other things to do in Santorini island that may not fit into a short trip of only a few days, but if you stay a week or longer then they’d definitely be worthwhile!

5. Megalochori

The quiet little village of Megalochori is one of the most underrated places to visit in Santorini, with quaint narrow streets, Greek cafes, and some great photo ops, including a white bell tower with 6 bells.

We would have loved to spend more time in Megalochori! It’s still a hidden gem, and it doesn’t have the crowds or bustle of Oia. There are plenty of hotels and restaurants if you decide to stay longer.

You can get to Megalochori easily from the main bus station in Fira, and it’s also possible to drive there. We found plenty of parking space near the town.

Where To Stay In Megalochori: Villa Katerina (Midrange) or Ducato Wine Villas (Luxury)

Megalochori Village Best Things To Do In Santorini Greece Island

The village of Pyrgos is the former capital of Santorini Greece, and it’s still well worth a visit today. It sits on a foothill of Prophet Elias Mountain, so it’s great to visit on your way up to the mountain!

The main thing people come to see in Pyrgos is the medieval castle, but the cafes and restaurants are also worthwhile, and it’s fun to walk through the charming narrow streets and shop for Greek souvenirs.

We didn’t think Pyrgos was quite as beautiful as Megalochori, but we still really enjoyed it, and it’s easy to reach from Fira by bus, car, or ATV.

Where To Stay In Pyrgos: Bluewhite Villa (Midrange) or Aeon Suites (Luxury)

Souvenirs for sale in Pyrgos village

7. Prophet Elias Mountain

The highest peak in Santorini is Mount Prophet Elias, with an elevation of 565 meters (1,900 feet) above sea level. There’s a nice 18th century monastery at the top of the mountain that’s open to the public, and it’s free to enter.

Aside from having wonderful panoramic views of Santorini island from above, this mountain is also a great place to watch the sunrise or sunset without the crowds of Oia. You can see everything up here, including the planes taking off and landing at the airport. It’s one of the best things to do in Santorini!

The mountain is accessed by driving your vehicle up a winding road for about 10 minutes past Pyrgos. Parking is limited at the top, so come a little early and remember to bring a jacket, as it can be very windy up there!

Mount Prophet Elias Profit Mountain Moni

Mount Prophet Elias — one of the best things to do in Santorini

8. Akrotiri Lighthouse

This is a 19th century lighthouse on the southwest tip of Santorini island. Even though it’s slightly off the beaten path compared to other attractions in Santorini, you can still get there easily with a rental car , and there’s plenty of parking.

The Akrotiri Lighthouse was built by a French company in 1892, so it’s actually one of the oldest lighthouses in Greece! Normally you can’t go inside the building, but the views outside are nice and it’s a fun place to watch the boats go by.

It’s also an especially popular spot to watch the sunset, but remember to hold onto your hat because it can get very windy here sometimes!

Akrotiri Lighthouse

9. Akrotiri Museum

The Akrotiri Museum covers an archaeological site and ancient city in Santorini that was buried in volcanic ash during the 17th century BC.

There are well preserved houses, pots, and other artworks to see, and you can learn some interesting facts about the old settlement here.

If you love history, this is a great place to visit in Santorini. It’s located near the Red Beach, so you can easily combine the two places in one trip!

Book Now: Akrotiri Museum Tickets / Private Tour

Akrotiri Museum

Best Santorini Beaches

Most of the beaches in Santorini are black sand beaches because of the volcanic origin of the island. They’re still nice for relaxing and sunbathing, but don’t expect any dazzling white beaches like you might see on Kefalonia or other Greek islands. Santorini doesn’t have white sand beaches.

One of the most famous and photogenic beaches in Santorini is the red beach, which gets its striking color from volcanic rocks on the seashore. Even if you’re not a beach person, this one is well worth a visit to see the unique red color!

If you’re looking for beaches with accommodation (restaurants and places to stay by the beachfront), then the Perissa and Kamari areas are your best choices. They have nice black sand beaches with hundreds of choices of hotels and restaurants!

The unique red beach in Santorini Greece

Santorini Island Map

Here’s a Santorini island map showing some of the best places to visit.

You can click the icons on this map to get more info and directions for each point of interest, but keep in mind some of the locations may be approximate.

Best Sunrise / Sunset Spots In Santorini Greece

The main place to see the sunset in Santorini is at Oia, where hundreds of tourists gather at the Castle of Oia every evening to watch the sunset. It’s hard to move in the crowds, so you’ll want to get there very early if you plan to do sunset photography. For a less crowded sunset spot in Oia, you can also go to the iconic three blue domes.

Another great sunset spot in Santorini is Prophet Elias Mountain. We went up there one evening and it was very peaceful. It only takes about 10 minutes to drive to the top of this mountain from the nearby town of Pyrgos. From the top, you can see the entire island of Santorini!

For sunrise, the options in Santorini are a bit more limited, but you can see the sunrise at Perissa or Kamari Beach, the hillside of Ancient Thera , or Prophet Elias Mountain.

Last, but not least, there are lots of different sunset tour packages in Santorini that include free hotel pickup and drop-off. You can do a sunset cruise on a catamaran, go kayaking or horseback riding in the sunset, or see the iconic Oia castle sunset.

Book Now: Santorini Sunset Cruise / Kayaking / Horseback Riding / Oia Castle

Other Santorini Tips

Credit Cards: You can pay by credit card for most hotels, restaurants, and other things in Santorini, but it’s still a good idea to carry a bit of cash (in Euros). Some smaller restaurants only take cash, or the card machines may go down.
ATM: There are ATMs within reach of every corner of the island. We usually pulled 200 Euros at a time, and never had any issues. One thing to note is that the ATMs will offer you their own conversion rate (which is a really bad rate), or you can continue in Euros. Make sure you choose Euros without their silly conversion rate. This is a well known scam at ATMs in Greece, but it’s easily avoided if you know what you’re doing.
Cell Service: Phone reception is strong across all of Santorini island, so you won’t have any issues staying in touch.
WiFi: Internet quality in Santorini is better than the other Greek islands, in our experience. Don’t always expect WiFi speeds on par with Athens (or other European countries), but it’s generally good enough for emails, browsing, and streaming.

Santorini souvenir magnets for sale in Oia town

Language: The local language in Santorini is Greek, of course, but almost everyone speaks and understands enough English for conversation. Lots of American and British tourists visit the Aegian islands, so the locals are accustomed to speaking English with travelers.
Mosquitoes: We never saw any mosquitoes in Santorini, and the island isn’t known to be home to the West Nile Virus, so it’s not really a significant concern here.
Water: The tap water in Santorini is supposed to be safe to drink, but it doesn’t taste good. It’s better to drink bottled water, which is cheap and can be found all over. You can use the tap water for cooking or brushing your teeth.

Santorini Greece Travel Guide Best Things To Do In Santorini Island Fira

Fira views — Santorini Island Greece

Is Santorini Safe?

Yes, Santorini is a very safe place to visit, even outside of the resort areas. We spent weeks exploring every corner of the island, and never felt unsafe at all.

Greece has one of the lowest homicide rates in the world. Just take normal precautions and you shouldn’t have any issues with crime. You don’t need to feel worried at all.

We traveled to Santorini as a couple, but based on our experience I would gladly come back as a solo traveler, with no worries in the least.

Santorini On A Budget — Is It Possible?

Believe it or not, Santorini isn’t only for the super rich — even though many Americans have that image of it! It’s certainly possible to do Santorini on a budget, although you won’t be staying in a luxury hotel with an infinity pool or ocean views.

On our first visit to Santorini, we stayed in Perissa near the beach, and used the public bus to cheaply visit other areas like Oia, Fira, and Imerovigli.

We weren’t staying in the fanciest areas of Santorini, but we could reach them easily for sightseeing and photos, which was good enough for us. We rented a car for a couple days to get to some of the more remote places that are harder to reach by bus.

We got wonderful meals in Perissa for as low as 3 Euros per person, and our hotel ( Studios Apartments Kapetanios ) was 65 Euros per day. That’s still not exactly super cheap, but it’s not bad at all either.

Keep in mind, this was one of the popular summer months (September), and it was a year that happened to be unusually busy for tourism in Greece (2022). So you could conceivably do everything even cheaper than we did.

Overall, I’d say it’s certainly possible to travel Santorini on a budget if you plan it right!

How Long To Stay In Santorini Greece

Santorini is one of those places where you feel like you could stay forever. Relaxing in a pool, soaking up sun, being by the ocean, and eating Greek food never gets old.

As far as sightseeing goes, you can see the highlights of Santorini Greece — namely Oia, Fira, Imerovigli, and Perissa — in 3 or 4 days. If you want to travel at a more relaxed pace and also visit extra places like Pyrgos and Megalochori, then a week or more is good.

We spent almost two weeks in Santorini, and while that’s probably more than most people will need, it gave us plenty of time to relax by the pool and see almost everything on the island at a very relaxed pace.

Church Of The Holy Cross Perissa Monastery Santorini Greece Travel Guide Best Things To Do In Santorini Island

The photogenic Greek monastery in Perissa

Santorini Greece Itinerary

Here’s what a sample 3-day itinerary for Santorini island could look like, assuming you want to spend the time mainly for sightseeing:

Day 1: Oia . Stroll the streets of Oia town and soak up the views of the historic whitewashed buildings and Santorini windmills. Pay a visit to the Castle of Oia for an iconic view of the town, and then walk down to Ammoudi Bay to see the fish tavernas. Have a nice meal at one of the many scenic restaurants overlooking Santorini, and then finish the day with sunset watching at Oia Castle.
Day 2: Fira & Imerovigli . Walk around Fira town and see the iconic three bells of Fira , and the Church of St. John the Theologian . Next, hike or take the bus to Imerovigli town and see the photogenic churches, flowers, and ocean views. Hike out to Skaros Rock and Theoskepasti Church .
Day 3: Perissa . Visit the Perissa area, relax at the black sand beach, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy some cheap and amazing food at one of the many Greek restaurants. See the Church of the Holy Cross and take some pictures. If you’re interested in hiking, climb up to the monastery on the side of the mountain ( Chapel of Panagia Katefiani ). End the day by driving up Prophet Elias mountain for sunset.

I hope this gives you some ideas for your own trip to Santorini! Of course, you could easily spend longer exploring these places.

If you have 4 or 5 days in Santorini, then spend a full day each on Fira and Imerovigli rather than doing both places in the same day.

You could also spend a full day seeing Pyrgos and Megalochori, plus far-flung sights like the Akrotiri Museum and Akrotiri Lighthouse .

Best Time To Visit Santorini Greece

The best time to visit Santorini island depends on what you’re looking for.

The nicest weather in Santorini is generally from late April to early November. All of these months are mostly warm and sunny, with less rain than winter. The shoulder months in spring and autumn can be ideal if you’re wanting nice weather without the crowds.

The hottest months in Greece are July and August, with high temperatures of about 29 °C (85 °F) and lows around 23 °C (73 °F). This can be great for swimming in a pool or lounging at the beach, although these two months can also be more crowded with tourists.

Winter in Santorini is fairly mild. It’s wetter and cooler, but it’s never actually too cold to visit. High temperatures are around 15 °C (60 °F), and lows are around 10 °C (50 °F). Perfect jacuzzi weather! The winter season is also quieter and cheaper, so you can often get a good deal on hotels and things.

Regardless of when you decide to visit Santorini, you’re sure to have a memorable trip!

Santorini Hotels

More greece travel guides.

Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed this travel guide for Santorini island in Greece.

We have more travel guides for the Greek islands coming soon, so don’t forget to check back later!

Happy travels!

The 11 best things to do in Santorini

Sep 1, 2021 • 6 min read

Blue dome church at Imerovigli village at Santorini, Greece

The blues dome of the church at Imerovigli is one of Santorini's most iconic views © Posnov / Getty

Santorini has long been hailed as one of the most picturesque holiday destinations in Europe due to its spectacular panoramic views of the caldera (cauldron-like volcanic crater) and its aesthetically pleasing, uniformly whitewashed, cubic architecture, which has become synonymous with engagement and wedding photoshoots. The southernmost member of the Cyclades islands is undoubtedly the star pupil.

But there is more to Santorini than striking a pose on the famous black sand beaches and spending time by the pool. Below are some of the top things you can do on the island, with activities suitable for sun worshippers and adventure-seekers alike.

1. Visit the real Atlantis

Well over 3000 years ago, a catastrophic volcanic eruption (one of the worst in recorded history) on the island consumed Santorini, causing the middle of the island to fall in on itself before being swallowed by the sea. Due to the unearthed writings of Greek philosopher Plato, it has long been believed that the ancient Minoan settlements that were destroyed during the eruption are, in fact, the fabled Lost City of Atlantis.

You can take a trip to the prehistoric town and archeological site of Akrotiri , located on the southern tip of the island, to learn more about the lost ruins of this Bronze-Age city and the island's dramatic past. The massive excavated site (often dubbed the "Pompeii of Greece") is visitor-friendly with covered, wooden walkways that lead you around the old city while still protecting it. There aren't many placards and pamphlets to explain your surroundings, so we'd recommend pre-booking a guided tour for the full experience.

2. View the famous Santorini sunset

The sunsets in Santorini are renowned as being some of the most beautiful in the world, and the picturesque town of Oia is a prime spot to give yourself a bird's-eye view. There are a few key locations in the town where you can catch the big event, but the Byzantine castle ruins have by far the most beautiful view. The crumbling remnants of the castle walls offer a gorgeous glimpse into Oia's past, and their elevated location also provides panoramic views of the island.

Unfortunately, these upsides deliver one downside – the Byzantine ruins are very popular with visitors and get incredibly crowded as the evening draws in. Get there early and make yourself comfortable in a prime spot before the sun dips below the horizon.

3. Hike up Santorini's volcano

Enjoy a guided hike up the ash-laden landscape of the still-active Nea Kameni volcano located in the center of the caldera. Nea Kameni is the youngest of the two volcanos and is a popular tourist attraction due to its surrounding golden, sulfur-infused waters and springs known for their healing properties. During the hike, you can walk up to the black lava perimeters of the volcano, as well as discover the crater and other openings bursting with sulfur steam. Not only that, but you also get a magnificent view of the Santorini cliffs and sister towns, Oia and Fira.

The heat can be oppressive during the high season, and we'd recommend an early start to take advantage of the cooler morning temperatures. Sunset-chasers should plan to finish their hike later in the evening to make the most of Oia and Fira being framed by the last rays of the day.

Quaint village store, Pyrgos, Santorini, Greece

4. Visit the charming town of Pyrgos

Although not as busy as its sister towns of Oia and Fira , Pyrgos is a quaint, charming town that offers stunning scenery and some of the most popular restaurants in Santorini, such as Selene . The town is a great place to get to know the locals and see what everyday island life is really like, without the clamor of crowds of tourists. There are also opportunities to capture beautiful images along the tiny, winding footpaths that lead to side streets and cul-de-sacs housing scenic cafes, restaurants, and churches.

5. Take a Greek cookery class

Dive into a hands-on experience and learn all about Santorini's traditional cuisine by taking a local cooking class. The Petra Kouzina Cooking Experience will teach you all the skills required to produce a multi-course feast in a beautiful, charming setting.

Alternatively, you can choose a combination cooking class and wine tasting tour – the fun starts with a tour of carefully selected wineries before you start cooking, so you can plan your menu to include the perfect accompaniment to your meal!

People are seated on the ground waiting for a movie to begin at the Kamari town open air cinema

6. Catch a movie at the open-air cinema

Given Santorini's beautiful weather, you’ll definitely want to make time for an outdoor movie during the warm evenings. Hosting one of the best open cinemas in the world, Kamari Village boasts tasty cocktails, trendy director’s-chair seating and, of course, popcorn. Early arrival is advised to get a good seat.

The caldera after sunset, Fira, Santorini, Greece

7. Take a caldera cruise

One of the most popular activities for visitors to Santorini is to take a midday or sunset cruise around the caldera on a catamaran. The caldera is a large, crescent-shaped volcanic depression with a fascinating history – some factual, some folkloric – and is an ideal activity for those interested in merging beautiful views with learning more about the history of the island and its legendary volcanic eruption.

Many tour companies offer this service, complete with an onboard meal, with Caldera Yachting company being one of the most popular. I recommend booking the sunset cruise to make the most of the gorgeous sunset views.

Bell tower of Monastery Prophet Elias, Santorini island, Thira, Greece

8. Make a pilgrimage to the monastery of Profitis Ilias

Built in the 17th century, the monastery of Profitis Ilias (Prophet Elias) is one of the oldest buildings on the island and is located at the highest point on Mount Eros. The site is littered with beautiful gardens, pine woods that lead you to the door of the monastery, and the most incredible panoramic views of the whole island – don’t forget to pack your camera. The grounds of this religious attraction house a variety of local stores that offer a selection of homegrown produce, including olives, wine, olive oil, candles and honey.

9. Attend the White Door Theatro show

For those looking to partake in some lively theater, the White Door Theatro show is unlike any other. The performance features an interactive wedding celebration performance, where audience members are cast as "wedding guests" and required to take part in a host of fun and playful activities during the show, including singing, dancing, mezes, and even smashing plates!

10. Take a helicopter tour of the island

It doesn’t get much more bucket-list worthy than having your own private aerial scenic tour of the island, where you soar above the picturesque landscapes of Santorini, getting a bird's-eye view of the beautiful beaches, whitewashed cliffs and blue-domed churches, not to mention the volcanic caldera. Even with all our tips and tricks for navigating the crowds this beautiful island attracts, nothing compares to your own private A-list experience in the sky above Santorini.

11. Sunbathe on the black sand beaches

Alongside its famous sunsets, Santorini is also known for its iconic black sand beaches, formed by the erosion of centuries of volcanic molten rock poured forth after each eruption. Perissa beach lies at the base of Mesa Vouno mountain and is one of the longest beaches on the island.

Alongside the multitude of cafes, bars and restaurants on the beach, there is also an elevated spot for adventurous divers to leap off into the crystal-clear waters. Families with young kids will find endless fun awaiting in the on-site water park.

You may also like: How to enjoy Santorini on a budget First time Santorini: top tips for your first visit

Explore related stories

Mar 22, 2024 • 7 min read

Explore world-class ancient ruins, bathe in island sunsets and enjoy incredible food – here are the best things to do in Greece.

Three friends jumping with happiness next to their car with palm trees in the background

Feb 19, 2024 • 7 min read

Milos island, Greece - June 12, 2018: Group of tourist sitting on top of the hill in Kastro to watch an amazing sunset. Kastro is the highest spot of Plaka, the capital of Milos.

Sep 12, 2022 • 6 min read

A colorful narrow alley of Ano Syros cycladic greek island

Jan 28, 2022 • 6 min read

Summer sunset over the Greek town of Oia and the Mediterranean Sea.

Dec 7, 2021 • 5 min read

Enjoy a hike past cycladic Santorini houses in Oia village

Sep 16, 2021 • 5 min read

Aug 27, 2021 • 6 min read

Jan 2, 2020 • 5 min read

Features - Man walking through alleyway lined with food stalls in Souq El Attarine.

Aug 17, 2015 • 7 min read

Porto Katsiki on Lefkada’s west coast, in the Ionian Islands. Image by Alexis Averbuck / Lonely Planet

Aug 5, 2015 • 5 min read

Views from Oia, the most beautiful village in Santorini

The active volcano of Santorini, only accessible by boat!

White-washed chapels in Oia, with amazing seaviews

The Red Beach: Swim the volcanic landscape of Santorini

Aerial view of the active volcano of Santorini Greece

TRAVEL GUIDE TO SANTORINI

Santorini (or Thera) is one of the most popular travel destinations worldwide and the most visited Greek island. It is one of the most magical places you will ever see!

In our travel guide, you can find out everything about your holidays in Santorini, Greece. Discover the things to do , exciting tours & activities, fantastic beaches, sights to visit , the best hotels & restaurants , as well as a wide selection of breathtaking photos ! You can travel to Santorini easily by plane from many countries but also via ferry from Athens, Mykonos, Paros, and more.

How to Travel There?

Best Hotels

What to Do? (20+)

Where to Swim? (15+)

Top Tours & Activities (40+)

Where to Eat & Drink? (50+)

OUR TRAVEL SERVICES IN SANTORINI

Book your trip to Santorini with Greeka, the Greek islands specialists! We help thousands of people every year to plan beautiful and trouble-free holidays. From tours to hotels and from car rentals to ferry tickets, we provide all the essential services to make your travel to Santorini the most epic and smooth one. Our travel services are rated . Our guide and services won the Silver Award (2020) at the annual Tourism Awards in Greece . Read reviews about our services.

ABOUT SANTORINI GREECE

Santorini is the most popular Greek destination and a worldwide famous island! Once you set foot on the island, you will feel like stepping into a heavenly world where all the shades of red create unreal sunsets. The caldera offers the most dramatic sea views you have ever seen, while the enormous cliffs are dotted with lovely Cycladic whitewashed houses! Nothing can prepare you for the beauty you will encounter on that enchanting island! The enthralling sunset view in Oia , the minimal Cycladic architecture, the luxurious hotels, the gourmet restaurants, the dramatic rocky landscape, and the imposing volcano are just some of the reasons that will make you have a crush on this unique island!

Located on the southern side of the Aegean sea, Santorini in Greece is a part of the Cyclades islands group. The island was reshaped after a huge eruption of the volcano that occurred in the 17th century B.C. and formed the breathtaking caldera. The landscape of Santorini is definitely one of a kind! Except for the famous caldera, the amazing red and black volcanic beaches, and, of course, the volcano’s crater in Nea Kameni, all remind the origins of the island.

The vacant accommodation is incomparable too! Infinity pools, luxury whitewashed villas, and 5-star services promise to make your stay unforgettable! Spoil yourself with spa treatments, wine tasting, vineyards tours, shopping, and romantic dinners with a view of the endless cerulean Aegean Sea.

Undoubtedly, the ultimate highlight is the enchanting sunset. Watch the sun sinking below the horizon while the sky breathes fire and the colorful light washes up the setting at Fira or Oia. No photo can capture the magic of the moment; that memory from your holidays will be engraved in your heart forever!

PHOTOS OF SANTORINI / SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCES

Explore Santorini island through the lens of the talented members of the Greeka community . Share your experience with us or tag us #greekacom on your favorite social media.

HOTELS & ACCOMMODATIONS

Santorini is home to some of the finest tourist facilities on the Greek islands! When seeking accommodation on the island, you will realize that your options are infinite. The famous caldera villages, such as Oia, Firostefani, and Imerovigli, are full of excellent hotels and suites, most of which preserve a traditional style yet are designed to offer luxurious lodgings with mesmerizing sea views. At the same time, several charming boutique hotels lie in other villages, while beachfront locations offer seaside resorts, among other accommodation facilities. Although the island is mainly known for its luxury hotels perched above the caldera, budget hotels and family-friendly resorts are also available. Villas comprise another favorite option allowing you to spend your vacation privately, with all comforts, while enjoying the view in a lively village or appreciating the calmness of a more remote location. Discover all the amazing accommodation facilities in Santorini!

Some of the most popular hotels are: • Grace Hotel • Katikies • Astra • Art Maison

HOW TO GET THERE & MOVE AROUND?

Santorini, the most popular tourist destination in Greece, boasts both an international airport and a port. Therefore, it is accessible by plane from Athens and many international airports but also via ferry from Athens (Piraeus & Rafina Ports) and many other islands of the Aegean (Crete, Mykonos, Paros, Naxos, Milos, Ios, and more). Book your ferry tickets with us !

Discover the different ways to get to Santorini & how to move around.

HIGHLIGHTS: BEST OF SANTORINI

Discover the highlights of Santorini to experience during your holiday! From sightseeing to activities and from tours to restaurants, here are the best suggestions for the ultimate experience! View All Things to Do

OUR ISLAND HOPPING PACKAGES

Discover our best island hopping packages including Santorini island!

WHERE TO GO NEXT?

Continue your trip to the best places in Greece! The most popular destinations after Santorini include Mykonos, Heraklion (Crete), Naxos, Paros, Ios and Milos, all easily accessible by ferry .

Share this page on Facebook
Share this page on Twitter
Copy the URL of this page

Upload your best photos of Greece and interact with other Greeka members!

The Perfect 3 Days in Santorini Itinerary for First Timers

Girl in blue dress at the famous blue dome in Santorini

Santorini is not only one of the most beautiful islands in Greece but it’s also one of the most popular dream destinations in the world . People flock to this beautiful island from all over the world and it’s easy to see why!

Stunning views, unbelievably blue sea, whitewashed houses with blue domes and gorgeous pink flowers, what more can you ask for?

Since it is quite a small island, spending 3 days in Santorini will give you enough time to visit all the best parts of the island while sampling the most delicious local food and enjoying the true Greek vibes.

In this Santorini 3 days itinerary, I will show you how you can maximize your time on this incredible island!

Disclosure: *This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*

No time to read now? Pin it for later!

The Perfect 3 Days in Santorini Itinerary for First Timers

Table of Contents

Useful Info for Spending 3 Days in Santorini

How to get to santorini, flying to santorini.

The easiest way to get to Santorini is by taking a flight. Thira Airport (JTR) is located on the east side of the island and you can always find numerous direct flights from bigger European cities, especially in the summer period.

If you’re planning to visit Santorini from the USA, Canada, Australia, or other non-European countries, you must get a connecting flight to Athens or another European city that operates a direct flight to Santorini.

Taking the ferry to Santorini

Another option for getting to Santorini is by taking a ferry. From mid-March until the end of September you can find numerous direct ferries connecting Santorini with many other Greek islands and Athens on the mainland.

If you’re traveling off-season, you can still find daily ferries from Athens, Naxos, and Paros to Santorini all year round. It takes around 5-7 hours to reach Santorini from Athens, and 2-3 hours from Paros and Naxos.

Usually, there are more ferry operator companies on the same route with various prices and duration. You can use the below search box to compare ferries and check the schedules.

Best time to visit Santorini

The high season in Santorini runs from late June to early September. As you can imagine, the island is full of tourists during this season and the prices are at their peak.

The weather is usually hot and sunny, which makes it perfect for relaxing at the beach. If you are more into sightseeing or hiking or if you don’t tolerate the crowds too well, I would recommend avoiding the high season.

Visiting Santorini in the shoulder season, typically in May-June or September-October is a great choice. You can still easily reach the island as the direct flights and ferries are still in operation. All of the hotels and restaurants are open, the prices are better, and there are fewer tourists on the island.

The island is significantly calmer during the winter months and with lower prices and mild Mediterranean weather, Santorini can be a great choice if you want to enjoy some winter sun in Europe .

The temperatures are generally mild, around 15°C (59°F) during the day but if you’re unlucky, the weather can be rainy and windy as well.

Read Next: Mykonos vs Santorini: Which Greek Island is Better?

The postcard perfect view with the white washed cliffside buildings in Oia, Santorini

How to get around in Santorini

If you want to follow my 3 day Santorini itinerary and explore the whole island, not just the main tourist hubs, then you’re going to need to rent either a car or an ATV.

This is the most convenient and easiest way to get around Santorini and since the island is not so big and the roads are in great condition, it’s fairly easy to drive in Santorini.

Having a car or an ATV will give you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace and stop wherever you like, which is really important.

Although you can find local buses in Santorini, I wouldn’t recommend using them. They are not so reliable and if you’re staying outside of Fira (the main hub of the bus system), you’re going to have a hard time getting around.

As for the rentals, I recommend checking Discover Cars where you can compare various car rental options in Santorini. There are many pick-up and drop-off locations across Santorini such as Santorini Airport, Santorini Port, Fira, and Perissa.

I would suggest renting a car at Santorini Airport as it is very easy to reach from any part of the island. Moreover, you can find 10 different companies operating at the airport so you can get the best deals there.

Where to stay in Santorini

If you’re visiting Santorini for the first time , you might feel a bit overwhelmed when it comes to deciding actually where to stay in Santorini. The island has basically two different sides with many towns to stay in, so you need to pay attention to which one you choose.

The caldera towns are located on the western side of Santorini and this is undoubtedly the favorite part of tourists visiting Santorini. The most popular towns in this part include Oia, Fira, Imerovigli and Firostefani.

The beach towns are situated in the eastern part of the island and if you’re looking for saving some money, it can be a great choice to stay at one of them. The most popular beach towns are Kamari and Perissa, where you can find beautiful black sand beaches.

If you’re interested to know more about each town with detailed descriptions, pros and cons, and hotel recommendations, make sure to check out my in-depth guide about the best places to stay in Santorini !

In case you’re looking for a quick solution, you can check my top recommendations below.

LUXURY – La Perla Villas and Suites

If you’re looking for an ultimate luxurious stay, you won’t find a better place than La Perla Villas and Suites. This adults-only hotel offers incredibly unique rooms while guests can enjoy amenities like an outdoor swimming pool, terraces with caldera and sea views, and a pool bar with drinks and food.

MID-RANGE – Kaleidoscope Cave Houses

The Kaleidoscope Cave Houses have a unique mix of bungalow vibes and classic architecture. Rooms at the property have a luxurious feel with amazing caldera views while selected units provide a private hot tub or a plunge pool.

BUDGET – Laokasti Villas

Located in the eastern part of Oia, only a 15-minute walk from the beach, Laokasti Villas is one of the best budget properties in Oia. The property boasts 17 different studios and villas and also has an outdoor pool and a restaurant on site.

Overview of Your Santorini 3 Day Itinerary

Below you can see a breakdown of your 3 days in Santorini, which includes every part of this Greek paradise that you absolutely can’t miss during a vacation here. No matter where you choose to stay on the island, you’ll have an excellent time.

Each day, you’ll have some traditional Greek food for either lunch or dinner and travel to some fantastic attractions filled with rich culture and interesting history.

When traveling, remember to bring your camera because there are tons of Instagram-worthy spots in Santorini !

Breakdown of your 3 days in Santorini

Day 1 – Sunrise at Oia Castle, explore Oia and find the best photography spots, grab coffee and breakfast at one of the cafes, Ammoudi Bay, have a traditional Greek lunch, go on a sunset cruise
Day 2 – Hike (or drive) from Oia to Fira, Imerovigli, Skaros Rock, Three Bells of Fira, Museum of Prehistoric Thira, Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral, grab lunch in Fira, go on a wine tour
Day 3 – Pyrgos, Profiti Ilias Monastery, Perissa Black Sand Beach, Red Beach, Akrotiri Archaeological Site, Akrotiri Lighthouse, sunset at Fira, have dinner with a view

Map for your Santorini itinerary

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this Santorini itinerary.

I marked your 3 days in Santorini with different colors – I used blue for the first day, green for the second day, and red for the third day, so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit each day.

If you open up this post on your phone and you click on the bracket in the upper right corner of the map, it will open up in your Google Maps app so you can always have it with you. Super convenient, right?

Day 1 of Your 3 Days in Santorini Itinerary

You’ll spend the first of your 3 days in Santorini exploring Oia and hitting some of the top sights in this postcard-perfect town. I recommend starting your day as early as you can!

In the afternoon, you will go on a sunset cruise with delicious meals on board. There is literally no better way to end your first day in Santorini than by watching the sunset from the water!

Watch the sunrise at Oia Castle

One of the best things you can do in Santorini in 3 days is catching the sunrise at Oia Castle. The castle dates back to Greece’s Renaissance times and was commonly used as a place of safety from incoming pirates.

Unfortunately, most of the castle got destroyed during an earthquake and only a part of the old watchtower survived. So don’t expect a normal castle, you will only see the ruins of it.

However, the castle is still worth visiting, especially for the panorama! It’s definitely one of the most impressive views you’ll see on the island.

Although Oia Castle is one of the best sunset spots in Santorini , unfortunately, it’s not really possible to enjoy the sunset here due to the massive crowds.

So if you want to truly enjoy the views, go for sunrise! This way you can have the castle all to yourself and you can explore Oia afterward without the crowds.

View of the caldera at sunrise from Oia Castle in Santorini

Explore Oia and find the best photography spots

As Oia is one of the most popular places in Santorini, it usually gets insanely crowded during the day. That’s why it’s a great idea to start your day early so you can explore the town while most of the tourists are still sleeping!

If you want to take some amazing pictures for your Instagram or family album, this is the best time to do it so make sure you have your camera with you.

Oia is kind of like a maze and it’s easy to get lost on the narrow streets. This is not a bad thing at all as this way you can stumble upon some really great hidden gems in the town.

But if you want to make sure you find every famous spot and make your life easier, you should turn on the satellite view on your Google Maps. Trust me, it’s a lot easier to navigate with the satellite view!

These are some of the places you can’t miss in Oia:

Blue domes viewpoint
Three domes of Santorini
Church of Panagia Akathistos Hymn
Kastro Oia Houses
Main Street of Oia
Windmills of Oia

If you want to know more about these places and find out the exact location of each spot, make sure to check my guide about the best Santorini Instagram spots and the best blue domes of Santorini !

Girl in blue dress at the famous blue dome in Oia, Santorini

Grab coffee and breakfast at one of the cafes

After taking some fantastic photos to help you remember your trip, you’ve probably worked up an appetite. It’s time for a tasty breakfast and delicious Greek coffee!

Whether you’re in the mood for an acai bowl or something a little heartier, there’s a cafe that’s perfect for you. You will find many different cafes in Oia, so you can’t really go wrong.

One of my personal favorites is Melenio Cafe . They have a beautiful terrace overlooking the famous blue domes and the sea and their baklava is seriously to die for!

Another favorite of mine is Thalami . Located on the caldera in the heart of Oia, this restaurant also has an amazing terrace overlooking the caldera and the sea and they also serve delicious breakfast dishes.

Visit Amoudi Bay

The next stop during your 3 days in Santorini is one of the most breathtaking locations in the area: Amoudi Bay. The water here is incredibly blue, and there are bright red cliff faces everywhere you look.

Hiking down to Amoudi Bay is definitely one of the best things to do in Oia but make sure to wear comfy shoes as you have to tackle around 270 steps to get down (and then to get back up).

But trust me, it’s incredibly worth it! You can watch the boats come in and out of the bay and just relax in a truly picturesque location.

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can even go cliff jumping! Just be sure to stay safe if you choose to.

Have a traditional Greek lunch

After relaxing a bit, it’s time for an authentic Greek lunch.

This Santorini 3 day itinerary would not be complete without trying some delicious local cuisine! Luckily there are quite a few places to choose from to grab a meal during your first day.

The first option is to wander around Amoudi Bay and try one of the fish restaurants. The most popular in this area is the Amoudi Fish Tavern . They serve incredibly fresh and tasty seafood and they also have an extensive list of wines.

Not to mention the picture-perfect views! Please note that this is a high-end restaurant so prices here can be a bit expensive.

If you would rather stay on the budget side, you can try authentic Greek gyros at Pitogyros . It’s a small restaurant with only a handful of tables so you might need to wait in line a little bit but trust me, it’s absolutely worth it!

Go on a sunset cruise

End the first day of your Santorini itinerary by going on a sunset cruise. The sunsets in Santorini are genuinely unlike any other!

There are many different cruise options but it can be hard to find one that’s actually worth spending your money on.

One great tour to consider is the Santorini Catamaran Red Cruise . It comes with a delicious barbecue dinner and wine. During the cruise, you’ll head past both the Red Beach and White Beach and have the opportunity to jump in and swim a bit!

If the above-mentioned tour is already full or you’re looking for another option for any reason, you could also consider a 5-hour small group Catamaran Cruise that includes a traditional Greek buffet lunch or dinner.

Day 2 of Your 3 Days in Santorini Itinerary

Hopefully, you got a good night of sleep because the second day of your 3 days in Santorini is filled with lots of attractions!

Today you’ll be heading to Fira, the capital of Santorini, and will be able to explore some other parts of the island that you didn’t get to visit the first day.

Hike (or drive) from Oia to Fira

Start your day by hiking from Oia to Fira. This hike is truly an unforgettable experience for anyone visiting Santorini, whether you’ve been there before or not!

The trail from Oia to Fira is 10 km (6.2 miles) long in total and it can be completed in 2-3 hours, excluding stops.

The hiking trail is well established but make sure to wear at least a comfortable sneaker! Also, you won’t get many shades during the hike so it’s best to start your day bright and early to avoid the scorching heat.

If you don’t feel like hiking that much, you can just rent a car or an ATV instead and follow the same path. This way you will be able to visit the highlights all the same without having to walk that much, plus you’re going to have more time at each attraction.

Whichever option you choose, make sure to stop by the following sights on your way from Oia to Fira!

Stop 1: Imerovigli

One of the best places you should stop by during your hike or drive from Oia is Imerovigli.

Sitting on a clifftop overlooking Santorini’s caldera, Imerovigli is a charming little town that is often overlooked by tourists. It’s a pity because it’s just as beautiful as Oia or Fira!

Imerovigli is a luxurious village filled with really lovely bars, shops, and high-end restaurants, which makes it one of the best areas to stay in Santorini for honeymooners.

When in Imerovigli, make sure to stop by the Church of the Resurrection of the Lord where you can capture two symbols of the island at the same time: the blue-domed church and the flowering bougainvillea tree in front of it.

And if you want to include some coffee time or a hearty breakfast, sit down a bit at Confetti Dessert Boutique where you can sample the tastiest cakes and breakfast dishes along with a delicious coffee.

White-washed houses in Imerovigli, Santorini

Stop 2: Skaros Rock

If you’re feeling adventurous, make sure to check out Skaros Rock which is one of the most scenic spots in all of Santorini. Skaros used to be one of the most important fortresses that were built in Santorini in the 15th century.

Unfortunately, most of the fortress was destroyed during the earthquakes and nowadays you can only see the ruins of it.

There is a well-established hiking trail connecting Skaros Rock with Imerovigli, starting at Agios Georgios Chapel. The hike is not that long, only 600 meters (1,970 feet) in one way, but you have to tackle hundreds of stairs during the trail which makes it pretty challenging.

Also, after one point, the trail basically turns into a small rock-climbing so definitely wear proper gear if you decide to attempt it (meaning at least sneakers and pants).

Even if you decide not to climb up on top of the rock (aka skipping the rock-climbing section), you’ll still get amazing views during your hike.

It’s also worth hiking down all the way to Mother of Lord Theoskepasti Holy Orthodox Church while you’re at Skaros Rock, which is the cutest little chapel with the best views.

All in all, you will need to budget around 1.5 hours for Skaros Rock.

Stop 3: Three Bells of Fira

After taking the trip up to Skaros Rock, make your way to the Three Bells of Fira. This is the one church that you’ve probably seen tons of times before, whether in wedding photos or on Instagram. It’s that iconic!

The church was built in the 18th century and is most well known for its bright blue dome and white facade. From the church, you’ll get a breathtaking view of the cliffs and the water below.

Stop 4: Arrive in Fira

If you follow the coastal road from the Three Bells of Fira, you will reach the center of Fira within 10-15 minutes by foot.

Even if you opted for a drive instead of hiking, it’s still worth completing this last section on foot as the views are incredibly scenic! You can practically see all of Fira in the distance which is a really beautiful sight to behold.

Explore Fira

Museum of prehistoric thira.

Now that you made it to Fira, the capital of Santorini, it’s time to explore the city!

If you are visiting Santorini in 3 days, you should try to take the time to learn a bit about the island’s history. A great place to do this is the Museum of Prehistoric Thira. It’s situated on the same site as an ancient church, though the museum didn’t open until 2000.

Prices to enter are rather affordable as a ticket only costs €6 per person.

In the museum, there are ruins from Santorini’s historic villages. You can even find pieces that survived the volcano that erupted so long ago. It’s a great place to learn more about early Greek life.

Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral

Next, head to the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral. It’s a huge Greek Orthodox church that’s absolutely breathtaking both on the inside and the outside. It has gorgeous arches, towers, and beautiful artwork on the inside that you won’t want to miss.

Even if you only have the chance to see it from the outside, make sure you have the chance to stop by this beautiful Cathedral!

Grab lunch in Fira

After a really long morning of hiking and exploring, it’s finally time to grab lunch. Similar to yesterday, it’s best to try to find a more local restaurant. This way, you can try some other traditional Greek food and also support the locals.

Some of the best restaurants in Fira are Greek Bites and Argo Restaurant . You can’t go wrong with any of them, and they are each mid-range when it comes to pricing, therefore they won’t leave too much of a hole in your wallet.

Go on a wine tour

There is no better way to end the second day of your Santorini 3 day itinerary than going on a wine tour! The vineyards in Greece are unlike any other, especially in Santorini.

There are many tour options for visiting a vineyard, but this Santorini half-day wine adventure tour is definitely one of the best!

The sunset tour starts at 4 pm and it includes visiting 2 of the area’s best wineries with trying 9 different types of wine. You can also get great wine tasting tips from your local guide and enjoy some Greek tapas as well.

If you have a bit more time, you can opt for this 4-hour small group wine tasting tour which starts at 3.30 pm. During the tour, you’ll be able to try 12 different wines and learn about the island’s ancient wine history while visiting 3 different vineyards.

Day 3 of Your 3 Days in Santorini Itinerary

For your third day on this Santorini itinerary, it’s time to go out and explore the rest of the island.

Similar to day two, day three is filled with lots of attractions, so make sure you eat a good breakfast and wake up early in order to fit everything in.

Keep in mind that in order to visit all the places on the itinerary for this day, you’ll have to rent a car or an ATV to explore the island.

First, head to Pyrgos. The charming little village of Pyrgos is located in the foothills of Mount Profitis Ilias, 7.5 km (4.6 miles) south of Fira.

It’s the largest preserved village on Santorini and was once the island’s capital.

Pyrgos is often overlooked by tourists and not many people actually make it there so it has a much more relaxed vibe than the northern part of the island. Take the time to wander around the streets and drop by some of the cutest souvenir shops!

One of the must-visit sights in Pyrgos is Pyrgos Castle. Although the castle got seriously damaged in an earthquake in 1956, it’s still worth visiting, mainly due to its amazing location.

Sitting on a hilltop, the castle offers an insanely beautiful panoramic view of the island and the shimmering sea.

You can also find many typical white churches with blue domes in Pyrgos. Two of the most beautiful ones are Saint George Church which is located close to Pyrgos Castle, and Agios Nikolaos Theotokaki which is situated in the heart of the town.

Profiti Ilias Monastery

Next, make your way to the Profiti Ilias Monastery. Situated on the summit of Mount Profitis Ilias, the Monastery of Profitis Ilias is one of the oldest churches on the island.

It’s roughly 3 km (1.8 miles) away from the village of Pyrgos and since it’s located on the highest point of the island, it offers a breathtaking view of Santorini.

You can drive all the way up to the top where you will find many parking spots. The monastery is completely free to visit.

Monastery of Profitis Ilias Santorini 1a

Perissa Black Sand Beach

Your 3 days in Santorini wouldn’t be complete without seeing at least one of the black sand beaches on the island.

Perissa Black Sand Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island, and, just like its name suggests, is covered in gorgeous black sand that really makes the color of the ocean pop.

Be careful if you walk on the sand barefoot because it can get very hot in the sun and might burn your feet if you’re not paying attention!

The busiest time to visit the beach is around 3 pm, so as long as you visit before then, it shouldn’t be too overwhelming.

If you could use a little coffee and cake break, stop by Chocolat . This colorful little cafe serves the best pancakes and waffles and their coffee is amazing as well!

Now it’s time to head to another iconic beach. The Red Beach has red sand and huge red cliffs, which makes it extremely unique in comparison to other beaches on the island. It’s red because of the nearby volcanic rock. When you visit, be on the watch for landslides from the cliff faces!

Akrotiri Archaeological Site

Next up on this Santorini itinerary is another historical site that can’t be missed. The Akrotiri Archaeological Site allows visitors to walk through an old Greek settlement that was destroyed and covered in ash from a volcano in the 16th century.

Walking through the site is truly eye-opening and will give you an exclusive and unique look into Greece’s ancient history that you probably didn’t expect to see on an island like Santorini.

Akrotiri Lighthouse

This 19th-century lighthouse is one of the country’s first lighthouses, which makes it pretty unique! It’s located pretty high up and offers breathtaking views from every inch, including down to the beautiful blue water.

Although the sunset is pretty magical at the lighthouse, since this is your last evening in Santorini, I would recommend going back to Fira to see the sunset there. But it’s completely up to you!

Sunset at Fira

In case you don’t want to stay at the lighthouse for sunset, head back to Fira and be prepared for one of the most beautiful sunsets you’ll ever see!

You can either choose to sit down at one of the restaurants or bars overlooking the caldera or just simply find a spot along the walls to watch the sun go down. Both offer an incredible experience!

One of my favorite spots to watch the sunset in Fira is Franco’s Bar . In recent years, they’ve been rebranded and now they function more like a restaurant than a bar but the view is still epic. As a bonus, now you can even have a delicious dinner with these views!

It’s truly the best way to end your 3 days in Santorini.

Girl sitting at Franco's Bar in Fira, Santorini

Planning a trip to Santorini?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Santorini. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

Hotel Guides:

Where to Stay in Santorini: 6 Best Towns & Hotels
21 Incredible Hotels in Santorini with Private Pools
21 Best Oia Hotels with Private Pools for Every Budget
21 Incredible Fira Hotels with Private Pools
25 Prettiest Imerovigli Hotels with Private Pools
25 Best Hotels in Santorini with Caldera Views
24 Stunning Oia Hotels with Caldera Views
21 Best Fira Hotels with Caldera Views for an Epic Stay
21 Imerovigli Hotels with Caldera Views You Can’t Miss
Hotel Review: Villa Bordeaux, Santorini

Travel Guides:

The Ultimate Santorini Travel Guide for First Timers
Top 29 Best Santorini Instagram Spots You Can’t Miss
Blue Domes of Santorini: Where to Find & How to Photograph Them
Where to See the Best Sunset in Santorini
20 Amazing Things to Do in Oia, Santorini You Can’t Miss
9 Best Things to Do in Imerovigli, Santorini

Other Amazing Destinations in Greece: Athens | Mykonos | Milos | Naxos | Paros

Pin It for Later!

8 thoughts on “The Perfect 3 Days in Santorini Itinerary for First Timers”

Thanks You for help. It’s really guide me a lot!

I’m so happy I was able to help!

Thanks a lot for this detailed itinerary, can I ask you if we decided nOT to do the 10k hike will the driving to the main stops allow you to see the exact places or fewer?

Hey! I think driving is good too, you can definitely make a stop at all the places I highlighted.

Hi if i want to add the quaint village of Megalochori, where should I add it?

I would include it in Day 3, between Pyrgos and Perissa Beach. It’s a really cute village but there is not much to do, so I think an hour or so is enough to stroll around. If you happen to be there during lunch time, make sure to stop by Raki – it was one of my favorite restaurants in Megalochori!

I would like to know where you purchased all of your stunning dresses?

Oh they are actually from quite a few different places, but my favorite brands are Chicwish, Cocopina SD, Tiare Hawaii and Rove Byron Bay 🙂

Santorini Itinerary

Greece › Santorini › Santorini in 1 to 7 Days Updated: February 11, 2023 By Santorini Dave

Best Things To Do in Santorini
Best Hotels in Santorini
Where to Stay in Santorini

Santorini Itinerary Best Things to Do in Santorini : Fira-Oia Caldera Hike • Ancient Akrotiri • Outdoor Cinema in Kamari Best Tours : Santorini Wine Tours • Santorini Boat Tours • Santorini Helicopter Tours Best View : Agios Georgios Chapel in Imerovigli Best Restaurant : Athenian House in Imerovigli Best Beach : Perissa Beach Best Nightlife : Fira Most Fun Activity : Jet Ski to the Volcano Best Hotels : Grace Hotel • Cavo Tagoo • Katikies • Canaves Suites • Athina Luxury Suites

Top 5 Santorini Highlights

1. enjoy the views of the caldera and volcano.

2. Do a Boat Tour of the Volcano

One day in Santorini – Boat tour of volcano.

3. Do a Santorini Wine Tour

Wine tour in Santorini – Best tour for one day

4. The Very Best Restaurants on Santorini

5. Santorini Nightlife

Best bars with view of volcano and sunset in Santorini.

One Day in Santorini

Do the Fira-Oia Hike or if that’s too much explore the caldera paths in Oia or walk between Fira and Imerovigli.
Do a boat or wine tour .
Eat at The Athenian House in Imerovigli or Metaxi Mas in Exo Gonia.
Watch the sunset from Fira, Oia, or Imerovigli.

Two Days in Santorini

Do the Fira-Oia Hike .
Do both a boat and wine tour . With good use of time you can do both.
Eat at The Athenian House in Imerovigli and Metaxi Mas in Exo Gonia.
Watch a movie at the Open Air Cinema in Kamari .

Three Days in Santorini

Do both a boat and wine tour .
Visit the ruins at Akrotiri and the village of Pyrgos (if you have a rental car) or one of the beaches (Kamari or Perissa) if you don’t.
Eat at The Athenian House in Imerovigli, Metaxi Mas in Exo Gonia, and a few of the other best restaurants in Santorini .

Five Days to One Week in Santorini

If budget allows do one or more of the private Santorini tours .
Rent a car for at least one day.
Visit the Akrotiri Ruins , The villages of Pyrgos and Emporio, Kamari Beach , and Perissa Beach .
Eat at The Athenian House in Imerovigli, Metaxi Mas in Exo Gonia, and several of the other best restaurants in Santorini .
If you have more than one week I highly recommend you do the first week in Santorini and then visit one or two of the fantastic nearby islands like Paros , Naxos , or Mykonos .
Best Tours & Things to Do in Santorini
Maps of Santorini
Videos of Santorini
Santorini Holidays
The Complete Santorini Travel Guide

About Santorini Dave

We are staying in Imerovigli in Santorini from the end of September until after the beginning of October for our honeymoon. We are going to Athens for two days and then spending 7 days in Santorini. We were wondering if we need to make reservations for all the restaurants and tours now or if we would be able to pick and choose once we arrive? We didn’t know if everything would be booked by the time we got there.

If there was a tour or restaurant that was very important then yes, reserve a month or more in advance. But for most tours you’d be fine booking a week or so in advance. For most restaurants a day or two in advance – or less.

My wife and I will be in Santorini the first week of October. (Staying at the Grace Santorini.) We are planning to do some wine tasting. Any particular wineries you would recommend (someone suggested Domaine Sigalas)?

Thanks in advance for your insights!

– Michael

Gavalas winery in Megalochori has the best wine. Art Space in Exo Gonia is the most interesting. Venetsanos has the best views.

Hi Dave Thanks for the great information on this site. We are travelling from Boston to India in June and visiting Greece on our way back. Family of 2 adults and 2 kids (7 and 10 years old)

We arrive at Athens July 13 @ 1:15 pm. We leave Athens for Boston on July 21 2:30 pm.

Our plan is to stay in Athens for 2 nights (July 13, 14), travel to Santorini and stay there for 4 nights (July 15-18), travel to Mykonos and stay there for 2 nights (July 19-20)

We are looking to stay at Pantheon or Ramezzo in Santorini and Mykonos Princess in Mykonos.

We would like to get your thoughts on our travel within Greece. 1. What hotel would you recommend in Athens that is not too far from the airport? The main places we want to cover is the Acropolis. 2. Easy to get to for a flight to Santorini on Jul 15. 3. Since our return flight from Athens is at 2:30 pm, what is the latest time that we should leave Mykonos to make it to Athens in adequate time? 4. Are flights for Athens easier to get and with more frequency from Santorini vs Mykonos? If yes, then we can go to Mykonos first and then Santorini and then return to Athens. 5. Do we have the time to do a day trip to Naxos? 6. Any other recommendations you may have?

At this point, our travel plans for Greece are quite flexible and I would appreciate your input before we make any reservations.

Thanks and Happy Holidays, Sangita

1. You’ll see my favorite hotels on my Athens hotels page. I would not stay near the airport if you want to see the Acropolis. If you overnight in Athens on your final night (in transit from the islands through Athens) then staying at the Airport Sofitel is a good plan. 3. I’d be sure to arrive in Athens at least 2.5 hours in advance of your departure. But even then it’s not a 100% that you arrive in time. 4. Santorini does have more flights than Mykonos but both have plenty. You only need one flight, if Mykonos has a time that works for you then do that. 5. Possible, but I’d spend that time in Santorini.

Is Amoudi Bay a good place to swim? Is it worth going down the steps to explore this place? Alexandre

The swimming and cliff jumping is great. Lots of fun.

I’m so glad I stumbled across your site, it is so helpful! We are staying at Perivolas in Oia for 7 nights from 30Sep-06Oct. After reading through much of your site, it seems like renting a car for a day or two may be a good idea based upon our location and amount of time we have on the island. What places would you suggest visiting during those 2 days with a car and in any suggested order? Thank you! Kara

Yes, renting a car for a day or two will be a great way to see the island but you don’t need it for the whole week.

Places to visit while you have your rental: -drive the east coast starting east from Oia to Baxedes (not taking the main road back to Fira) -Pyrgos -Emborio -Akrotiri (the ancient historical sight) -Red Beach -Outdoor Cinema in Kamari -Lighthouse on southwestern tip – Metaxy Mas Restaurant – Good Heart Restaurant – Yalos by The Sea Restaurant

I would do a wine tour instead of visiting with your rental car but if you do go on your own most of the wineries lie in the area between Kamari and Megalochori. They are marked with a road sign that you’ll quickly recognize.

Your site is amazing and has been a tremendous help in planning my solo trip to Greece later this month. I’m going to Mykonos for a few days and then Santorni. I’ve written out a whole itinerary, including key Greek dishes I’d like to eat. Needless to say, I like to plan ahead. I’d like to get your thoughts on it if you can take a look. And suggestions you would strongly make? Or red flags? Let me know!

About me: 25 year old American woman (New Yorker). Not really into the crazy party scene. I don’t even drink. But I do like hanging out at bars and dancing. I’m a big foodie. I’m also very physically fit and love hiking.

Mykonos (21st – 24th)

Day 1 (arriving nighttime):

Activity: Explore Mykonos Town (Matoyianni Street) Dinner: Bakalo Restaurant (Lakka, Mykonos Town)

Activity: Platys Gialos Beach (maybe Paraga and Paradise as well) Lunch: Yialo-Yialo (Platis Gialos, Mykonos) Dinner: Katerina’s Bar for Sunset (Little Venice, Mykonos)

Activity: Hike from Ano Mera to Lia beach to Kalafati Lunch: Paprika (Ano Mera) Dinner: Kiki’s Tavern

Day 4 (Morning):

Activity: Ornos Beach (morning) Lunch: Markos Falafel Depart Mykonos at 1:50 Hellenic Seaways to Santorini

Santorini (24th – 28th)

Day 4 (arriving late afternoon):

Activity: Explore Fira Lunch: Gyro at Lucky’s Activity: Sunset in Imerovigli at Skaros Rock Dinner: Anogi

Activity: Ancient Thera, Perissa Beach Lunch: Tranquilo Dinner: Metaxy Mas Tavern Activity: Kamari Cinema at night

Activity: Hike Fira to Oia Lunch: Roka Dessert: Lotza (in Oia) Activity: Koo Club or Tropical Bar

Activity: Explore Fira, Ammoudi Bay Lunch: Ammoudi Fish Tavern Activity: Sunset in Oia

Day 8: (whatever)

Depart Santorini on 6:50 flight

DISHES TO EAT:

Appetizers Courgette Balls (Kolokithokeftedes) Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmadakia) Greek Salad (Choriatiki) Tzatziki Spanikopita Calamari

Entrée Gyro Meatballs (Keftethes) Moussaka Souvlaki Octopus

Dessert Balaklava Galaktoboureko Revani Loukoumades

Thanks, Cherice

Looks wonderful. Getting from Metaxy Mas to cinema you’ll need a car or ATV – not walking distance and taxis are hard to find.

Santorini Travel Guide

Here’s a comprehensive Santorini travel guide from Greece experts who spend a heck of a lot of time on this beautiful island! Santorini is probably the most well-known holiday island in Europe, perhaps even in the whole world.

With its unique island architecture of whitewashed houses and blue domed churches perched on a cliff, maze of narrow streets overlooking the Aegean Sea, the unique sunset, the volcanic landscapes and colorful villages offering rich culture, refined local gastronomy and imposing archaeological sites, Santorini is the epitome of a Greek island.

All of this makes Santorini an extremely popular, and often overcrowded island among travelers, so follow my Santorini travel guide to make the most of your visit – find out what to see, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around.

Map of Santorini

Introducing Santorini

Santorini (or Fira/Thera, as it is officially known) is a volcanic island, shaped around 1620 BC by the massive volcanic eruption that destined the present-day island and its bay caldera.

Ever since, the island has been inhabited due to the composition of its soil which is perfect for viniculture and continues to be an important part of Santorini’s life.

Santorini is part of the south Cyclades Islands, close to Anafi, Folegandros , Sikinos, and Ios islands.

As a regional administrative hub, it has an international airport that makes it a very easy island to get to.

This island is much more famous for its architecture, breathtaking vistas of the Aegean Sea, sunset that drops straight to the sea, romantic vibes, and village island life, than it is for spectacular beaches.

Swimming is interesting due to color of the volcanic soil beaches, ranging from black to red, but the beaches of Santorini are not a match for other Greek islands.

Santorini’s main attractions lie on the cliff of its inner rim, most notably the towns of Fira, Imerovigli, and Oia where the famous hanging houses and blue dome churches are.

How to Get to Santorini by Air

Flying to Santorini is easy due to multiple daily direct flights from Athens and Thessaloniki.

All airliners operating in Greece fly to Santorini, including Aegean/Olympic Air, Sky Express, and Volotea. The flight from Athens is around 40 minutes long.

Santorini airport is also a major international airport, so making plans to arrive/ depart to/from Greece via Santorini is also possible.

How to Get to Santorini by Ferry

Santorini is a major ferry hub, offering direct ferries to almost all the Aegean islands and among the island groups.

Multiple daily ferries depart to Santorini from Piraeus taking anything between 4 and 9 hours (€60-90 one way).

Check out these Santorini ferry resources:

📌 Mykonos to Santorini Ferry and Flights: Best Options

📌 FERRY Athens to Santorini: Times, Prices, Tickets, Itineraries [2024]

📌 Beginner’s guide to Santorini Ferry Port for Greek island hopping

📌 How to Take the Ferry from Santorini to Paros

Island Hopping

Santorini is close and well-connected to many other amazing Greek islands, making it a perfect place to include in an island-hopping itinerary. For example, it’s just over an hour to Paros Island .

Sailing on a Ferry from Athinios Port, Santorini

The best plan includes arriving in Athens, visiting several islands on a ferry route to Santorini (perhaps Sifnos and Milos ) for a beach holiday, and ending with a stay in Santorini to admire its non-beach aspects before departing directly from it by plane.

Popular islands of Anafi and Ios are under an hour away from Santorini, while boat tours around Santorini offer excursions, sunset cruises, and day trips to its hot springs, the nearby islets of Nea Kameni and Palia Kameni, and diving expeditions.

To see how to plan a trip around the Greek Islands, and the different island hopping itineraries that include Santorini, see:

📌 Greek Island Hopping: A Guide for First-Timers

📌 15 Best Greek Island Hopping Itineraries

Getting Around Santorini: Local Transportation

Hiring a car, quad/atv, or scooter.

Santorini is best discovered by your own wheels, whether that’s a rental car, quad bike or ATV, or scooter. Here are some of our resources for you to check out:

📌 Santorini Quad Rental: Your Complete Guide

📌 Moto Panos: Discover Why I Use the Santorini Car Rental Company

Public buses offer good service, but will not stop anywhere you want between the villages and thus limit your experience of discovering the hidden corners of the island.

International and locally owned rent-a-car companies are all present in the port, at the airport, and around the island and offer vehicles from €30 (low season) and €50 (high season).

Walking and Hiking

One of the most scenic hiking paths of all Cycladic islands is in Santorini. It is the Fira-Oia hike, suitable for all levels of hikers.

This hike is approximately 10km long and consists of cobblestone, paved and dirt track sections. Read a complete guide to the walk:

📌 Fira to Oia Hike: Complete Guide

Plenty of other hikes available around Santorini to enjoy and admire its landscape and villages, including the Skaros Rock to Panagia Theoskepasti hike and the Oia to Amoudi Bay hike.

TIP: When doing the Fira-Oia hike, start early before the crowds and heat.

Public Bus System

KTEL intercity bus system on Santorini includes multiple lines that connect all of its towns, villages, and beaches via the central bus station in Fira.

The buses are new, well appointed, and with a cold A/C working all the time.

Direct busses connecting the port of Santorini, Fira town, and the airport run 15 times a day. The single ticket ranges between €2-2.5.

The Santorini bus schedule is a website showing you the schedule for every time of year.

Best Time of Year to Visit Santorini

📌 Visit Santorini in November without the Crowds

📌 What’s the weather in Greece in May like for travel?

High Season (June – August)

Santorini is very busy and is most expensive during the peak season and the crowds can be overwhelming in these months in Oia.

Cruise ships dock below Fira with hundreds of tourists every day who will join you squeezing between the narrows

If at all possible, plan your Santorini trip during the shoulder season to get the most of it, especially the cruise ships that frequent the island during the summer.

Shoulder Season (April – May, September – October)

April and May are the perfect months to visit Santorini. Nature is blooming, the fields are dotted with wildflowers and you can hike for hours on end without the summer heat bothering you.

Plus, the attractions are way less busy and the accommodation prices are lower. The swimming season starts in late May but extends to the end of October.

The only caveat is that if it’s a cold spring, it’s not the weather for sunbathing. September and October, however, are perfect.

Low Season (November – March)

November is the last month for visiting Santorini without the winter rains and winds. After late October, expect some tourist outlets to be closed for the season.

Santorini weather by month

How long to stay in santorini.

Santorini can easily keep you occupied for a week, but a minimum you should schedule is a 3-night stay to include visits to its main villages, bays, museums, churches, and taverns.

Where to Stay in Santorini

🛎️ The 24 Best Hotels in Santorini with Private Pool by a Greece Expert [2024]

🛎️ Where to Stay in Santorini [2024]

🛎️ Best 11 Santorini All-Inclusive Hotels + Resorts in 2024

Santorini Top Tourist Attractions

From finding and photographing the blue domes to sunset sailing round the caldera, to hiking, beach time, wine tasting, and wandering the streets of Santorini’s villages, you can easily enjoy a full week of activities in Santorini.

I have a special page dedicated to all the best things to do in Santorini, so check the details here:

📌 21 Top Santorini Greece Attractions

📌 6 Best Santorini Greece Boat Tours

The Best Beaches in Santorini

Santorini is not famed for its soft white powder sand or tiny white pebbles on its beaches. Actually, some of its beaches do not even have a clear seabed due to the black volcanic sands.

Santorini beaches are more of a geological marvel to admire than a tropical paradise. Nevertheless, a trip to several of its beaches is a must.

Close to ancient Akrotiri, the Red Beach is an otherworldly site consisting of red cliffs ending in red volcanic pebbly-sand beach.

Sunbeds and umbrellas are available, while the car parking is a couple of minutes’ walk away from the beach.

Perissa Beach & Perivolos Beach

A very large stretch of black sand beach is interrupted by an enormous boulder/hill called Mesa Vouno that separates them from Kamari.

Perissa is a family-friendly place with some beach bars too.

Perivolos is a high-end beach with luxury hotels, fine dining, and beach lounge clubs situated along its Agios Georgios end.

Kamari Beach

This is the main east coast beach of Santorini overlooking Anafi island with bars, restaurants, umbrellas, sunbeds and watersports available on its pebbly sands.

Armonia Beach and Amoudi Bay

Beautiful rocky beach snuggled below Oia village and across from a tiny islet containing a church of Agios Nikolaos and the best cliff jumping spots on Santorini.

Diving and snorkeling happens at Amoudi Bay year-round, Oia, Santorini, Greece

Read a full description of what to do in Amoudi Bay here:

📌 Sublime and Tiny Amoudi Bay, Oia, Santorini

Major Historical Sites and Museums

Ancient akrotiri.

Magnificent ancient ruins recount the story of Minoan Santorini and the 5000 years of history of this island, including the natural forces that shaped its contemporary existence.

My absolute favorite, as you can walk the streets of this ancient settlement and admire the standing houses from 5 millennia back in time.

📌 Ancient Akrotiri Santorini: Guide, Tickets, Tour, History

Museum of Prehistoric Fira

Located in Fira town, this museum continues the story of ancient Santorini and contains artifacts and objects from Akrotiri and other excavation sites of the island.

Akrotiri fresco, Museum of Prehistoric Thera, Santorini

Emmanuel A. Lignos Folklore Museum

Set in a traditional Santorini cave house in a Kontochori village, this museum recreates the traditions and customs of 19th-century Santorini.

Santorini Villages

No Santorini travel guide could be complete without venturing away from the caldera villages to explore the inland villages too. Make sure to visit at least one of Pyrgos, Megalochori, and Emporio.

A tiny village close to the caldera that followed a non-touristy path and is largely free from hoards of visiting crowds.

Beautiful traditional houses in Pyrgos Village, Santorini, Greece

Nowadays it offers a beautiful central square and 360 views of the island, as well as a Pyrgos Castle and the Santorini Museum of the Past.

Megalochori

Another inland village worth visiting, especially for its bell tower and free-to-explore underground cave system.

Plus, a famous Santorini heart site for making picture-perfect island postcards is close by. Read a complete guide:

📌 Megalachori Santorini: Ultimate Travel Guide

This is Santorini’s largest inland settlement and a nice place to stop for lunch and check out the Kasteli – a fortress-like heart of Emporio.

Traditional houses of Emporio village, Santorini

It has deserted areas, tiny covered alleyways, and wonderful small chapels.

Santorini Cuisine: What to Eat and Drink in Santorini

Way more than just a souvlaki and traditional Greek salad, there are some unique dishes to be found on Santorini, especially those made with Santorini tomatoes and fava beans.

🍷 Fava – a humble mash of fava beans coupled with lemon juice, olive oil, and capers.

🍷 Domatokeftethes – fried tomato bites, an essential Santorini appetizer.

🍷 Apochti – cured meat, perfect as a companion to wine tasting.

🍷 Kopania – truffle-like balls made of barley rusk with honey, raisins, and sesame seeds.

🍷 Santorini wines – Assyrtiko, Vinsanto and Mavrotragano

Emergency and Useful Numbers

📲 Any Emergency: 112

📲 Police: 100

📲 Fire Department: 199

📲 Ambulance: 166

📲 Tourist Police: 171

📲 Santorini General Hospital (Fira): +30 2286 035300

📲 Santorini Airport: +30 2286 028400

📲 Santorini Ferry Port Athinios: +30 2286 025015

Athens, Mykonos, Santorini Itinerary: 7-10 Days

Best 13 Santorini Hotels with Cave Pools + River Cave Pools

Visit Chora, Amorgos Island

Hi! I'm an anthropologist & history travel expert. I spend a part of each year in Greece, Italy, & Cyprus.

You can plan & book your next trip here while learning more about the cultures & histories of some of the world's most exciting destinations.

Help Center
1-866-921-7925

Start Searching

Packages
Hotels
Cruises
Rental Cars

* Indicates required fields

Rental Period:

pickUpDate - dropOffDate

Pick-Up: pickUpTime - Drop-Off: dropOffTime

Pick-Up Location:

pickUpAddress

pickUpAgencyName

pickUpAgencyAddress

Drop-Off Location:

Same as Pick-Up Location

dropOffAddress

dropOffAgencyName

dropOffAgencyAddress

Coupon Override

Please call.

For drivers under the age of 25, additional fees and/or restrictions may apply.

For information and assistance in completing your reservation, please call:

We're unable to find your location.

Alaska Cruise Tours:

A cruise tour is a voyage and land tour combination, with the land tour occurring before or after the voyage. Unless otherwise noted, optional services such as airfare, airport transfers, shore excursions, land tour excursions, etc. are not included and are available for an additional cost.

Vacation Packages

The wine island, the five islands that form santorini were created through volcanic activity, making this crescent-shaped jewel a scenic marvel in the aegean sea..

An active volcano (not to worry, the last big eruption was more than 3,000 years ago) as well as a dream romantic destination, Santorini’s stunning scenery is legendary. Villages and vineyards perch in volcanic cliffs overlooking a crystal-blue sea, and dazzling sunsets end each day in a golden glow.

Santorini hotels are open seasonally, April through October.

Central Crete
Netherlands

Santorini Hotels

Costco Member Reviews

The Costco Star Rating assigned to each hotel is only intended as a guideline. The rating is based on information that has been compiled by Costco Travel buyers and might differ from other references.

Property offers the ultimate in elegance and sophistication, with highly personalized service and hospitality.

Property offers upscale design and decor, superior dining venues, manicured grounds, and a high level of service and hospitality.

Property offers above-average accommodations, service, comfort, facilities and grounds.

Property offers basic accommodations, decor, facilities and grounds.

Featured Deals

Athens, santorini and mykonos: your way.

Daily Breakfast Choice of Accommodations

Athens and Santorini: Your Way

Daily Breakfast Executive Member Benefit at Select Hotels

More About Santorini

Undoubtedly the most extraordinary island in the Aegean, crescent-shape Santorini remains a mandatory stop on the Cycladic tourist route—even if it's necessary to enjoy the sensational sunsets from Ia, the fascinating excavations, and the dazzling white towns with a million other travelers. Called Kállisti (the "Loveliest") when first settled, the island has now reverted to its subsequent name of Thira, after the 9th-century BC Dorian colonizer Thiras. The place is better known, however, these days—outside Greece, that is—as Santorini, a name derived from its patroness, St. Irene of Thessaloniki, the Byzantine empress who restored icons to Orthodoxy and died in 802.

In July and August, the Cyclades are crowded and less personal and more expensive than they are at other times of the year. Walkers, nature lovers, and devotees of classical and Byzantine Greece would do better to come in spring and fall, ideally in late April through June or September through October, when temperatures are lower and the islands are less tourist-riddled. In late March the islands begin to burst with thousands of varieties of wildflowers, and sprightly crimson poppies dapple stern marble blocks; the sea begins to warm up for comfortable swimming in late May. Autumn's days are shorter, but the sea remains alluringly swimmable well into October. Autumn travel to the islands also brings rustic pleasures: grapes are pressed in September, and zesty olives are gathered and fields plowed in October.

Top Experiences

Sunset in Oia : This will be a tourist heavy activity, but the sunsets and views are amazing. If it is too busy, try Imerovigli instead.

Black Sand Beaches : Try Perivolos and Perissa for an enjoyable day at the beach with lots of amenities. The areas are lined with cafes, shops, restaurants, and beach bars.

Ancient Thira : The remains of an ancient city that was inhabited 2,000 years ago. You can drive the narrow road with many hairpin turns or take a bus from Kamari so you don’t have to worry about the drive.

Akrotiri Archaeological Site : An ancient Minoan settlement that was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in the 16th century B.C. It was buried in ash like Pompeii in Italy. Modern excavation has been ongoing since 1967. Many beautiful frescoes and objects have been found.

Boat tour : Sunset cruise or afternoon excursion in the caldera of Santorini. Many offer dinner, drinks and possibly the chance to go swimming or snorkeling.

Additional Information

Explore more travel, there's still time to book summer travel.

Mexico, Europe, the Caribbean and More

Included Extras or Digital Costco Shop Card

Hidden Gems

Discover What Lies Beyond the Ordinary

Off-the-Beaten Path Vacation Packages and Cruises

Save on Rental Cars

Exclusive Costco Member Pricing

No Cancellation Fees

Member reviews become available after at least 5 are received in order to provide you with an accurate picture of this travel product.

We are processing your payment.

Do not refresh your browser or exit this page.

Santorini Vacation Packages

Save when you book santorini package deals.

I only need accommodations for part of my trip

Flight and hotel packages to Santorini

Valery Suites

Edem Luxury Hotel Santorini Finikia

Rocabella Santorini Hotel & SPA

Merovigliosso Apartments

Amethyst Luxury Suites

Top santorini hotel deals.

Altemar Suites

Ira Hotel & Spa

Suites of the Gods Cave Spa

Ducato di Oia

Caldera Premium Villas - Adults Only

Aeolos Art and Eco Suites - Adults Only

Popular places to visit in santorini, athinios port.

Explore the waterfront of Athinios Port and enjoy activities such as boating in Órmos Athiniós. Stroll along the seaside or discover the area's volcano viewpoints.

Ancient Thira

You can find out about the history of Santorini with a visit to Ancient Thira. Wander the seaside and beautiful beaches in the area.

Perivolos Beach

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Perivolos Beach during your travels in Agios Georgios? While in this romantic area, you can enjoy the bars.

Santorini Island Vacations

The gem of the Aegean Sea, Santorini Island's crescent shape creates its breathtakingly long inner bay, called the caldera. The remarkable cliffs of Santorini rise majestically from the caldera to a height of 300 meters, offering a spectacular view of the sea. The island's unique volcanic evolution, waterways, and architecture make it the most romantic island of the Cyclades. Santorini vacation packages put you at the nexus of fine beaches, volcanic hot springs, fusion cuisine, active nightlife, and friendly culture.

Major Attractions

In Santorini, you'll step into an artist's dream, where colorful sunsets are transformational, caved houses are etched into rocks, and cobbled winding paths ignite a magical feeling of adventure. The most famous spot to view sunsets is at the Oia Castle. Other exquisite locations include the romantic Faros in Akrotiri, and Pyrgos, one of the highest spots on the island. Choose vacation packages to Santorini that include visiting the volcano and thermal springs. Spend time on the exotic beaches of Perivolos and Perissa, take photographs of the historic Kasteli (Castle City), and explore the Museum of Prehistoric Thera.

Festival and Events

Santorini vacations can be enjoyed year-round. The climate produces moist, warm summers and cool evenings. August brings the famous "Meltemia" winds, while winter months produce cool weather and sparse rainfall. Outdoor celebrations on the island include the Ifestia Festival, organized every August to pay homage to the island's volcano. The festival features dramatic fireworks, concerts, and dance performances. Another popular festival is the International Music Festival held every September, which welcomes artists from all over the world to perform various musical medleys in Fira.

Travelocity can help you find cheap Santorini hotels with an extensive list of accommodations, placing you in the most famous parts of the island. Rent a car in Santorini Island and chase after sunsets, gastronomic eateries, and unique Santorini keepsakes.

Tours and Activities in Santorini

Whether you're venturing out alone or having a break with family and friends, traveling's all about trying different things, wandering into new adventures and acquiring memories along the way. Are you all set to go?

Ready for some exciting adventures in Santorini? We suggest trying a few of these things:

Highlights of Santorini Private Half-Day Tour
Santorini Gems Cruise
Small-Group Santorini Photography Tour
Customized Private Island Tour
Private Golden Hour Sunrise Photo Tour
Ancient Akrotiri & Oia Village Private Half-Day Tour

Frequently asked questions

Recommended cities for you
All inclusive vacations
London Vacations
Paris Vacations
Rome Vacations
Barcelona Vacations
Amsterdam Vacations
Berlin Vacations
Venice Vacations
Istanbul Vacations
Madrid Vacations
Dublin Vacations
Lisbon District Vacations
Prague Vacations
Milan Vacations
Vienna Vacations
Munich Vacations
Edinburgh Vacations
Athens Vacations
Hamburg Vacations
Budapest Vacations
Copenhagen Vacations
Nice Vacations
Brussels Vacations
Stockholm Vacations
Frankfurt Vacations
Reykjavik Vacations
Cologne Vacations
Naples Vacations
Kraków Vacations
Birmingham Vacations
Paphos Vacations
Liverpool Vacations
Bruges Vacations
Porto Vacations
Cannes Vacations
Oslo Vacations
Moscow Vacations
Larnaca Vacations
Cardiff Vacations
Verona Vacations
Turin Vacations
Düsseldorf Vacations
Geneva Vacations
St. Petersburg Vacations
Warsaw Vacations
Lyon Vacations
Marseille Vacations
Helsinki Vacations
Dresden Vacations
The Hague Vacations

Other popular vacations in Greece

Greece All Inclusive Vacations

Top all inclusive vacation packages with airfare

Las Vegas All Inclusive Vacation Packages with Airfare
Punta Cana All Inclusive Vacation Packages with Airfare
Cancun All Inclusive Vacation Packages with Airfare
Cabo San Lucas All Inclusive Vacation Packages with Airfare
Hawaii All Inclusive Vacation Packages with Airfare

Book a vacation to Santorini

Santorini: Ultimate Greece Travel Guide | Early 2023 Update

Your Guide To Greece

Updated on: January 18, 2023

Thanks in part to its popularity with celebrities, and its Instagram-worthy scenery, Santorini has become one of the world’s hottest travel destinations in recent memory.

This small Greek island in the south Aegean Sea was formed by a massive volcanic eruption roughly 3,600 years ago. This left behind a large caldera that shaped the island’s topography.

Approximately 16,000 people call the 28-square-mile island home. But, it draws more than two million visitors each year, making tourism the island’s primary industry.

All About Beautiful Santorini

Considered to be one of the most romantic and picturesque Mediterranean islands, Santorini offers breathtaking views of rocky cliffs, colorful beaches, rolling hills dotted with white-walled dwellings, and an active volcano, all set against the backdrop of the shimmering turquoise sea and vast blue sky.

After a few days of enjoying the warm Greek hospitality, mouthwatering meals, and unforgettable sights, you may never want to leave! This guide is pretty long, so to snap to specific sections that pique your interest, use the table of contents below.

Best Time To Visit Santorini

Places to stay in santorini, how long to stay in santorini, getting around santorini, things to do in santorini, places to eat in santorini, top photo spots in santorini, our final thoughts on santorini.

In Santorini, nearly every season provides excellent reasons to visit.

Looking for more information? Check out our guide What is the Best Time To Visit Santorini Greece In 2023?

High Season Visits to Santorini

During “ high season, ” from late June to early September, the island will typically be packed with visitors, but crowds are generally manageable. The weather is perfect for relaxing on the beach or taking a dip in the sea, and flights and ferries are at their greatest availability.

Nightlife on Santorini peaks during summer; however, prices for everything from flights and hotels to tours and cruises are at their high point as well.

Shoulder Season Visits to Santorini

“ Shoulder season ” (May, June, September, and October) provides ideal weather for sightseeing, with pleasantly warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Most tourist attractions are still running at full steam, but you won’t have to share them with quite as many people as you would during peak months.

Prices are also slightly lower. If you’ve got your heart set on swimming, the water may be warm enough, especially in June and September.

Low Season Visits to Santorini

If you’re looking to save money, “ low season ” is the time to visit. From November to April, you’ll enjoy reduced prices on hotels and some other expenses, but you’ll also have to take your chances with the weather, as these months are cool and often rainy or overcast. You may even see snow during January or February.

Most hotels and restaurants remain open during the low season, but clubs tend to close up shop for the winter by early November. Options for flights and ferries will also be limited. Be sure to pack warm clothes for sightseeing, but unless your hotel has a hot tub or indoor pool, you can leave your swimsuit at home.

As more and more travelers discover Santorini’s charms, choice accommodations are becoming more challenging to secure. The island’s top hotels are often fully reserved months in advance, especially during peak summer months. For this reason, if you have a specific place in mind, book your room as soon as you know your travel dates.

Want some more specific information? In addition to individual hotel reviews in the links in the title of each property, I have also developed the guide Finding the Best Hotels in Santorini: Our Top 18 Choices .

Budget Hotels in Santorini: Top 5 Picks

If you’re traveling with a limited budget, book a hotel on the eastern side of the island, where prices are noticeably lower than those overlooking the caldera. Lodging in Perissa, Perivolos, and Kamari is not only affordable but also extremely convenient to Santorini’s beaches. Finding a hotel or guest house without a pool is another way to save costs.

Before you book, check out these five budget-friendly hotels:

Hotel Smaragdi

Located just a stone’s throw from the striking black sand of Perivalos Beach, this attractive family-owned hotel features a pool, poolside bar, and café. Rooms run the gamut from economy-level to luxury suites, but all come with free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and in-room refrigerators.

Most also include balconies or patio access, although some of the economy rooms may not have private access to these spaces.

Finikia Memories

While not exactly cheap, room rates at Finikia Memories do include breakfast, making the hotel a relatively good value for the price. The hotel sits in a small village on the outskirts of Oia, so it’s within convenient walking distance to many of the island’s most popular attractions.

All rooms include private balconies or terraces, excellent views of the sea or the pool, and free Wi-Fi and mini-fridges.

Hotel Akrotiri

If you’re drawn to the rich archeological history of the island, Hotel Akrotiri puts you within a few hundred yards of the Akrotiri excavation site, widely considered to be home to some of the most well-preserved remains of Greek civilization outside of Crete.

]The hotel’s décor is a bit dated and there’s no pool, but the prices are some of the lowest you’ll find anywhere on the island. The rooms are comfortable and equipped with refrigerators, stovetops, and balconies with ocean views.

Hotel Maria Preka

This modest hotel is tucked away in a quiet neighborhood near Kamari Beach, offering 23 basic units suitable for two to four adults. The furnishings are simple but adequate, and each room includes a refrigerator, sink, and stove burner, which can help you save money by not eating out at every meal.

The hotel does have Wi-Fi, but it may not be accessible in every room. A small pool is available on-site.

Seaside Beach Hotel

This 27-unit hotel puts you in the center of the action in Kamari, located a short walk from multiple restaurants and bars as well as the village’s famous black sand beaches.

Room options include double-occupancy economy units, studios, and small apartments, most of which have kitchens sufficiently equipped to prepare basic meals. The hotel also features a pool and hot tub and a daily buffet breakfast if you prefer not to cook.

Mid-Range Hotels in Santorini: Top 5 Picks

If you’ve got a bit more wiggle room in your budget, consider one of these mid-range Santorini hotels:

Dream Island Hotel

This quiet, family-owned hotel is within walking distance of many of Santorini’s most popular tourist spots—including shops, restaurants, and the caldera—but offers a welcome refuge from the hustle and bustle of island life. Guest rooms are modern and meticulously clean, and rates include a free hot and cold breakfast buffet, Wi-Fi, and parking.

The Boathouse Hotel

This small, eco-friendly beachfront hotel in Kamari offers 17 well-appointed guest rooms with complimentary Wi-Fi, refrigerators, and a daily breakfast buffet. Additionally, on-site amenities include a deli, bicycle rentals, a poolside bar, and more.

Amerisa Suites

Located less than a mile from the caldera on the east side of Fira, Amerisa Suites offers breathtaking sea views from its rooftop terrace and a sparkling outdoor pool.

Rates include free Wi-Fi and parking, but breakfast at the hotel will add to the cost of your stay. Still, the central location and excellent value of its 14 guest rooms are hard to beat for the price.

Hotel Nikolas

The Hotel Nikolas lacks some of the free amenities of its mid-range competitors, but it makes up for it with very attractive prices. Complimentary Wi-Fi is only available in the lobby and breakfast costs extra, but the hotel’s convenient location and beautiful setting and décor make it a solid pick in this price range.

Alizea Villas and Suites

Located near the heart of the action in Fira, this charming 15-room hotel offers a luxurious outdoor pool, complimentary Wi-Fi, and clean, modern rooms at reasonable prices.

Luxury Hotels in Santorini: Top 5 Picks

If you’re looking to live the high life during your trip, these luxury hotels in Santorini will spare no expense to make you feel pampered:

Andronis Luxury Suites

This high-end boutique overlooks the Aegean Sea, with breathtaking views of the caldera and convenient proximity to the shops, restaurants, and nightlife in Oia.

Each of the 22 suites comes with its own hot tub, and the infinity pool overlooking the cliffs is sure to make your jaw drop. Be sure to enjoy a traditional Mediterranean meal at the hotel’s well-regarded restaurant.

The Majestic Hotel

Situated in Fira, this large, modern hotel offers an impressive list of amenities, including three pools, two restaurants, a spa, and a fitness center. Be sure to make your reservation well in advance, as this popular hotel is often completely booked.

Canaves Oia Hotel

The Canaves Oia Hotel is an island paradise located on the picturesque Greek Island of Santorini. This luxury hotel offers some of the best views in all of Greece, with its breathtaking cliff-side setting facing the vast Aegean Sea.

The Canaves Oia Hotel features five-star service, gourmet cuisine, luxurious amenities and a variety of activities such as swimming pools, spa treatments, boat excursions, winery visits and more. Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, the Canaves Oia Hotel provides something for everyone.

Art Maisons Luxury Santorini Hotels Aspaki and Oia Castle

Nestled into the cliffs of Oia, this fabulously posh dual-hotel property features a whitewashed design, modern décor, and spectacular sunset views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea. All 19 suites include high-end espresso machines, exposed volcanic rock, and en-suite pools.

With only six suites available, this cozy boutique property fills up quickly. Designed to resemble the ancient caves of earlier civilizations, this quiet hotel is ideal for couples who want a well-appointed space for relaxing after a day spent sightseeing around the island.

At a minimum, plan to spend several days on the island, which will afford you enough time to absorb its unique culture, see the most popular sites, enjoy the incredible food and take a boat or winery tour.

You could easily spend a week soaking in the gorgeous sunsets and striking architecture of Santorini. However, if you have two or three weeks at your disposal, you may wish to spend a week on Santorini and the balance of your trip exploring some of the other Greek islands, such as Mykonos, Crete, or Rhodes.

Have a limited amount of time? You can experience a good surface-level overview of what Santorini has to offer with a one-day itinerary. Check out the guide One Day in Santorini: Amazing Things To Do and What To See for more.

Navigating Santorini in a Rental Car

Renting a car gives you maximum flexibility for sightseeing across the island, and most hotels offer free parking as part of your room rate. Be sure to book your car well in advance, especially if you require an automatic transmission, as these vehicles can be in short supply on the island.

The airport is the easiest place to pick up your vehicle, and you can compare rates and availability on RentalCars.com. Be sure to take photos of the interior and exterior of the car before leaving the rental site to protect yourself from damage surcharges.

Walking In Santorini

Many of the small towns and villages on Santorini are extremely walkable, especially during spring and fall when the weather is at its best. You will still need to take a bus or taxi between towns, however.

Taking the Bus in Santorini

Buses operated by the KTEL transportation company travel all over the island from Fira, with hourly routes to many destinations during the high season.

Rates are quite reasonable at $2 to $3 per trip. However, keep in mind that you’ll need to return to the main hub of Fira to travel to a different town, as there are no direct routes between any of the other towns on the island.

Utilizing Taxi Services

Taxis are readily available around the island, but this mode of transportation is easily your most expensive option. Major routes, such as the trip from Oia to Fira, have fixed rates, but traveling to towns off the beaten path may cost you as much as $25 or more.

With its rugged cliffs, colorful beaches, and distinctive whitewashed architecture surrounded by the sapphire-blue Aegean Sea, Santorini is a photographer’s dream.

You could spend days simply strolling the narrow streets of the small towns and villages that dot the island or dedicate your time to relaxing poolside as you take in the stunning scenery. Read on for essential activities to add to your Santorini bucket list.

Best Locations for Viewing the Sunset in Santorini

Santorini is well-known for its dazzling sunsets. Here are a few of the best locations to catch the nightly show in the sky:

Oia : Widely considered the best sunset-viewing spot on Santorini, this town on the northern tip of the caldera is likely to be quite crowded, but will also deliver excellent photo opportunities.
The Promenade in Fira : Head to the south side of Fira to the promenade along the edge of the cliffs for a prime view of the sunset, but keep in mind you’ll probably have company, as this is one of the island’s most popular locations at this time of day.
The Lighthouse : Located at the extreme southern end of Santorini, the lighthouse adds a picturesque element to the gorgeous sunset.
Santo Winery : Savor a glass of Santorini’s outstanding wine while watching the sky explode in brilliant color as the sun sinks below the horizon.

Exploring Oia

Oia stars in many of the Instagram-famous photos of Santorini, with its whitewashed architecture and bright blue accents. In addition to unforgettable sightseeing and photo opportunities, Oia is well-known for its unique local shops, a wealth of charming churches, swimming in the crystal waters of Amoudi Bay, and the historic remains of the castle of Agios Nikolaos.

Wandering Around Fira

If you’re feeling energetic, you can make the popular hike from Oia to Fira. The picturesque six-mile route is relatively easy with a few rolling hills and is highly recommended if the weather is nice. Once you get to Fira, you can spend the rest of your day strolling through the town’s museums, churches, and shops.

As a side note, one of the best things to do in Santorini is the Fira to Oia hike, one of the best hikes in all of the Mediterranean. I cover that walk in detail in The Fira to Oia Hike – Best Hike In Santorini and Greece .

Exploring Akrotiri

This area of Santorini is rich in history, home to the remains of an ancient Minoan settlement buried by a massive volcanic eruption nearly 4,000 years ago.

You can tour the excavation site to view buildings, drainage systems, and other artifacts from this ill-fated Bronze Age town; entry is 12 euros, with an additional 10 euro charge for a guided tour that’s worth every bit of the extra cost.

The Best Beaches in Santorini

Unlike the white sands found elsewhere in the Mediterranean, Santorini’s beaches are made up of red or black volcanic sand and small pebbles, making excellent photos but less-than-ideal beachcombing surfaces.

Still, the coarse soil means the water is crystal-clear, making these seaside destinations a wonderful place for a swim during the warmer months. The island’s most popular beaches include Kamari, Perivolos, Perissa, Monolithos, and Amoudi Bay.

Boat Tours in Santorini

Santorini boat tours are much more than just a cruise around the caldera—these day-long excursions include fantastic food and adult beverages, snorkeling and swimming, and priceless insights from local guides.

If you don’t mind dropping some coin, you can spend the day being pampered on a lavish private catamaran cruise; for a fun day spent meeting new people and seeing the sights, consider a small-group cruise. Other specialty offerings include fishing tours, jet ski excursions, and sea kayaking trips .

Climbing Mesa Vouno

To get the very best views in Santorini, you’ll need to work a little, but the reward is well worth the effort. After trekking up the 370-meter Mesa Vouno—the peak between Kamari and Perissa—you’ll get to enjoy panoramic views of the island as well as the remains of Ancient Thira (not to mention enjoying a dessert that evening without a shred of guilt).

Enjoying Santorini Wineries

Santorini enjoys a centuries-old tradition of wine-making, and varieties like Vinsanto, Nychteri, and Mezzo are sipped locally as well as exported around the world.

The island’s wines have a distinctive flavor and body due to the rich volcanic soil and seaside climate. The best-known wineries include Santo Winery and Volcan Winery , but vineyards are scattered throughout the island.

Watching Movies at the Open Air Cinema

For a truly unique movie-watching experience, be sure to plan a visit to Cine Kamari , one of the most popular open-air cinemas anywhere in Europe. Located in Kamari, the cinema is open from May to October and shows current releases in English with Greek subtitles.

Advance tickets aren’t available, so be there well before the doors open at 8:30 p.m. and be sure to bring cash for tickets and refreshments, since the theater doesn’t accept cards or checks.

Not surprisingly, Santorini is home to an abundance of fresh, locally-grown Mediterranean fare. Despite its small size, the island’s fertile organic soils provide excellent nourishment for grapes, tomatoes, eggplant, capers, and more—all of which shine in traditional Greek dishes like moussaka. Freshly-caught seafood like octopus also figures heavily on many restaurant menus and is a must-try delicacy.

For further information, in more depth than you see below, check out my guide The Best Restaurants in Santorini: Our 9 Top Choices .

Breakfast in Santorini

Located in the quaint village of Firostefani, Galini Café offers hungry diners a feast for the eyes as well as the belly. With balcony views of the sparkling Aegean Sea and the island’s majestic caldera, the café caters to all five senses while serving up some of the freshest fares on Santorini.

Sweet and savory crepes, pancakes, and egg dishes give you a hearty start to your day, while smoothies and superfood bowls will appeal to the health-conscious. If you’re feeling frisky, you can pair your meal with one of the café’s breakfast cocktails (or come back later in the day for a beverage and a light bite).

Lunch in Santorini

Quick, authentic Greek tavernas and cafés abound on the island, allowing you to enjoy a traditional Mediterranean midday meal without busting your budget.

Check out Terra Nera for its pizza, pasta, and kebabs; stop by Pito Gyros for the quintessential Greek handheld food; or visit Melina’s Tavern for local fava and tomato balls—fritters made from tomatoes, onions, and herbs that constitute the unofficial dish of Santorini.

Dinner in Santorini

Enjoying at least one romantic sunset meal during your trip to Santorini is an absolute must, and Koukoumavlos more than fits the bill. The restaurant’s balcony offers utterly breathtaking views of the caldera, and the rustic, candlelit dining room is almost as lovely to look at.

Along with impeccable service, the restaurant is known for its constantly changing but consistently inventive takes on traditional Mediterranean recipes, from fresh seafood to pasta and more. Be sure to make your reservation well in advance, as this popular spot fills quickly.

Dessert in Santorini

No visit to a Greek island would be complete without a taste of baklava, which is executed flawlessly at Melenio Bakery . Other traditional offerings include walnut cake, galaktoboureko , and ekmek kataifi , a classic Greek dessert made from layers of sweet, flaky dough, custard, and whipped cream. The bakery also serves European favorites like tiramisu, chocolate souffle and mille-feuille.

If you’re looking for a cold treat on a hot summer day, stop by Lolita’s Gelato , where the hardworking staff churns out a wide variety of gelato and sorbet flavors using fresh milk, nuts, and fruit juice with no added colors or preservatives.

Considered by some to be the most photogenic of the Greek isles, Santorini offers an endless array of shockingly beautiful subjects. Here are a few you won’t want to miss:

The famous blue-domed buildings of Oia
Sunset over the caldera, viewed from Oia Castle
Skaros Rock, a craggy former fortress located just outside Imerovigli
The Three Bells of Fira Church
The red sand beaches at Akrotiri
The striking black beaches of Perissa
The rusty pink façade of the Kastro Oia Houses
The Akrotiri Lighthouse , perched high on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea
Amoudi Bay, where crystal-clear waters and colorful wooden boats dominate the landscape
Anastasi Church, a stunning whitewashed structure nestled along a hillside in Imerovigli

While it’s a little off the beaten path, Santorini is quickly becoming one of the hottest travel destinations in Europe. The breathtakingly beautiful Greek island offers a wide range of options for travelers, from budget-friendly accommodations paired with self-directed sightseeing excursions to posh, high-end hotels and private tours.

Whether you’re looking for seaside views, authentic Mediterranean cuisine, historic sites, or charming local culture, you’ll find all of it and more in this jewel of the Aegean Sea.

most recent

Crete: Ultimate Greece Travel Guide | Early 2023 Update

Naxos: Ultimate Greece Travel Guide | Early 2023 Update

Paros: Ultimate Greece Travel Guide | Early 2023 Update

Mykonos: Ultimate Greece Travel Guide | Early 2023 Update

Uncategorized

Kavos boutique hotel naxos – naxos hotel review 2021.

PH +1 000 000 0000

24 M Drive East Hampton, NY 11937

Santorini Travel Guide: Things To Do in Santorini, Greece

Santorini: a dazzlingly beautiful island in Greece. Discover its iconic whitewashed cliff-side villages, with deep sapphire domes and colorful decorative flowers covering the buildings. Combine this with the postcard-worthy sunset at Oia and you can understand why it is one of the most popular islands in Greece! Whether you’re visiting for a holiday, or as your romantic honeymoon destination , this travel guide includes all the things to do in Santorini, as well as budget tips and the best hotels.

14 Things To Do in Santorini

Santorini is a relatively small island, and driving from North to South by car takes roughly 45 minutes. The island is part of the Cycladic Islands that are located between Athens and Crete. Despite its size, there are still many things to do in Santorini. Below are our top recommendations.

Also read: Best Things To Do in Athens, Greece .

1. Wander the streets of Oia

Oia is without a doubt the most beautiful town in Santorini. One of the best things to do is stroll up and down the many white steps, through the narrow streets, discovering cozy taverns. Get ready to grab your camera, as around every corner is a new surprise. The bright white houses and blue domes are truly iconic to Greece, and Oia certainly won’t leave visitors feeling disappointed.

It doesn’t take long to explore Oia, as a return journey from the boulevard to the sunset point will only take about 30 minutes. Enjoy a delicious lunch while you’re here, as there are plenty of choices for food and drinks.

Because it is arguably the best thing to do in Santorini, it can get crowded in the narrow streets, especially during sunset. However, a visit to Oia is really worth your time.

Tip: It’s recommended to wear proper shoes as the streets and paths can be slippery and uneven.

2. Oia’s unforgettable sunset

If there’s one thing you must do on Santorini, then it’s watching the sunset at Oia. Gather for sunset at the Castle of Oia, where you can sit on the castle wall. Alternatively, sit closer to Agia Ekaterini for the iconic views that are found on every Greek postcard. Please note that it can get jam-packed during the high season, so we recommend you take a spot at least an hour before sunset.

See the best hotels in Oia

3. Discover Fira in Santorini

Fira (Thira) is the capital of Santorini and also one of the island’s most visited spots. There are loads of great restaurants and a shopping area. However, the real eye-catcher is the narrow back streets and hidden chapels to explore—for example, the Saint Minas Holy Orthodox Church and the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist.

On the cliffside, there’s a cable car going up (that’s impressively steep) from the old harbor. This is where the cruise ships dock. Unfortunately, donkeys are still being used here to transport the cruise people up 500 steps. Please use the cable car, or the steps, instead of riding on these beautiful animals.

Firostefani

After passing the cable car point, you will enter Firostefani – a smaller, much more laid-back town directly attached to Fira. Walk to this viewpoint overlooking the church, with the three bells. This town is good to base yourself in, as it is the center of the island. This means you’ll have all the things to do in Santorini within a 30-minute drive.

Hotels in Santorini 😴

4. Hike from Fira to Oia

Santorini has an incredibly scenic hiking trail along the cliffs, 10.5 kilometers long (6.5 miles). The trail runs from Fira to Oia, with many height differences and climbs, and can take anywhere from 3 to 5 hours to complete. The path is meant for pedestrians only, which means it’s beautifully peaceful.

More Greece: Visit Milos Island with its paradise beaches

5. Imerovigli

Situated at the highest point on the cliffside of Santorini Island is Imerovigli. This tranquil and picturesque village is far less visited but just as impressive as Oia, particularly as it also has white chalked houses, churches, and blue domes. What’s more, it has endless views of the shimmering sea and looks directly onto the imposing rock of Skaros and volcano. To top it off, you’ll find many delicious restaurants with an unforgettable sunset view.

Good to know: Imerovigli is located in between Fira and Oia.

6. Hike up Skaros Rock – One of the Best Things To Do in Santorini

Skaros Rock is a large rock formation that overlooks the entire area. Whilst visiting Imerovigli, it takes only 15 minutes to hike up to Skaros Rock . Once there, you will find the ruins of an old Venetian fortress, which was once considered the capital of Santorini.

On the backside of Skaros is a beautiful white church overlooking the sea. Finally, if you’re looking for the most spectacular view, climb to the peak of Skaros Rock.

Here are all your hotel options in Santorini.

7. Explore the island by ATV or motorcycle

A refreshing breeze, the smells of the salty sea, and the feeling of freedom; what’s better than discovering all the things to do in Santorini on a motorcycle or ATV/quad? It is the ideal way to discover the island because you have the freedom to drive wherever you like and park pretty much anywhere. This makes it a great alternative to a rental car. We do have to mention a rental car is much safer and the comfort of airconditioning can be very welcome at sometimes. ( Book a local rental car here )

Or book a cruise for the day and go around the island instead. ( See the cruises here )

Locals say an ATV/Quad is much safer than a motorcycle; however, if you’re comfortable and used to a motorcycle, the prices are much lower. Personally, we also find these easier to drive. One great plus about the ATV/Quad is that it usually has a large trunk to pack your bags while traveling around the island.

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Greece trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

Prices for renting an ATV/Quad or Motorcycle on Santorini

Renting can be done through your hotel or directly at one of the many rental shops. Depending on the season you can expect to pay anywhere from 18 to 30 euros a day for a motorbike and 30 to 45 euros for an ATV/quad. The more days you rent it for, the more discount you can expect to receive.

Santorini Travel Guide: Things To Do in Santorini, Greece

8. Visit villages

Besides beautiful Fira and Oia, there are other, much less visited, villages that are well worth a trip during the daytime.

Megalochori

Get lost in the alleyways of Megalochori, famous for its beautiful architecture, mansions, and caves houses, as well as the iconic churches with blue domes! Within the village’s main square, you will find many traditional taverns and cafes.

About 8 kilometers away from Fira is the small and slightly undiscovered village Pyrgos. Here you can find a stunning castle, narrow picturesque streets, and panoramic viewpoints . In fact, Pyrgos is at the highest point of the island, providing a great view of both sides of Santorini.

Lunch tip: Have lunch at Brusco, a well-decorated cafe in the middle of town.

9. Visit Red Beach

Santorini’s Red Beach is one of the unique beaches Greece has to offer. The red color comes from the red volcanic cliffs that slowly break down. The beach is not necessarily great for sunbathing, but it’s worth the trip to the south part of the island. To get there, you will have to pass through the village of Akrotiri before eventually reaching the parking lot where the small chapel is located.

Keep in mind that there’s a slight danger of falling rocks, as many signs will tell you. Accessing the beach is, therefore, at your own risk. Alternatively, you can visit Red Beach during a boat trip .

10. Go on a wine tour

The assyrtiko wines of the Greek Islands are well-loved for their unique taste. Instead of growing the vines vertically, they are grown in baskets on the ground. This allows the vines to tap into the volcanic soil that contains moisture instead of needing to be watered (water is a scarce resource on the island).

The yield of wineries is low, making it a more exclusive wine. Growing them in this way also provides more coverage against the island’s notoriously strong winds.

We booked a wine tour on Santorini at Gaia Wines , and it was much more interesting than initially expected. Besides having a tasting experience, we also learned about harvest and the chemical reaction during the wine-aging process. The wine tastings can be paired with a platter of local cheeses and bread at their uniquely located terrace – right by the sea under the shade of trees. Bliss!

11. Perissa Beach

Have you done all the things to do in Santorini? Or maybe you’re simply wanting a day of relaxation? Head over to the black sand beach, lined with umbrellas, named Perissa Beach. The beach is a long stretch of sand with many comfortable beds, sat below the restaurants situated on the other side of the street. Perissa village is a popular seaside resort that mainly attracts young people and backpackers.

Either rent a bed for the day or pick a free spot to put your towel down. Once you’re comfortable, sit back and enjoy the sunshine and a refreshing swim in the Santorini sea.

Did you know? Regular sunscreens are toxic for the corals and animals in the sea. Learn about reef-safe sunscreen .

12. Archeological sites in Santorini

Santorini Island has two major archeological sites from different times in history. The first is the ancient and well-preserved city of Akrotiri . It is the most important site found on the island and in the entire Eastern Mediterranean. Akrotiri is protected by a modern roof, which provides shade for those visiting during the daytime.

Ancient Thera is the second archeological site of Santorini, located on the top of the Mesa Vouno Mountain. Here, you can find the remains of a church, temples, shrines, and a theater.

Both sites are perfect things to do in Santorini on a day trip with your rental car or ATV.

Book an archeological tour on the island here.

13. Ammoudi Bay

A great thing to do in Santorini is to visit Ammoudi Bay. This small port is tucked away below Oia, and fantastic seafood restaurants are lined along the clear waters. It is famous for romantic sunset dinners, and it is also the starting point for many boat tours that visit the Volcano and Hot Springs.

Getting to Ammoudi Bay can be done via the 280+ steps going down next to Oia’s Castle or by car or taxi. When using the stairs, it’s recommended to wear proper shoes as each step is wide and the surface mostly uneven. A third option offered is riding on the back of a donkey, but we highly discourage this.

14. Santorini Volcano and Hot Springs

A huge volcanic explosion happened a long time ago on Santorini Island. As a result, the island’s center sank and, ultimately, reshaped the island into a crescent. This is the reason why the island has these extreme cliffs.

There is still a volcano near Santorini that you can visit on a day trip. It’s a short 10-minute boat trip, followed by a walk to the active craters. ( Book a volcano tour here online ) Because of the volcano, there are natural hot springs to be found nearby. Here, you can swim in the sea and experience the unusual feeling of the warm hot spring water mixing with the normal sea temperature.

Where to eat

It’s true that Santorini is definitely not cheap, but when it comes to going out for dinner you have a lot of options in every kind of price category. For vegetarians, and sometimes vegans, there are also plenty of options available at most restaurants.

Our favorite restaurants in Santorini were:

Pelican Kipos in Fira (Greek, European)
Paradox in Oia (Thai food)
Salt & Pepper in Fira (Greek)
No Name Grill in Firostefani (Seafood, Greek)
Karma in Oia (Greek)
Katharos in Oia (Vegan Meze Bar)
Forno in Kamari (Pizza & Pasta)
Tranquilo in Perissa (Vegan)
Brusco in Pyrgos (European)

Where to stay on Santorini

The best area to stay in Santorini is close to or in Fira, the capital. It is close to all the things to do in Santorini, and additionally, you have to option to use the local bus. We stayed at in this hotel.

As for hotels in Santorini, you can go as crazy as you like. Prices of the hotels range from 50 to 500 USD on average with the extremely luxury easily exceeding that. Don’t worry, there options for every kind of budget. ( See all hotels on the island )

How to visit Santorini

There’s no surprise that Santorini, and all its many things to do, attract a lot of visitors. In 2019 alone, the small island, with a population of only 15,500 people, received over 2 million tourists!

Getting to Santorini

Santorini Island is well connected with daily ferries from the mainland ( Athens ) and many other nearby islands like Milos or Mykonos. The ferries are fast, comfortable, and generally faster than flying from nearby destinations (especially if you count the time it takes to check-in). During the high season, from March to October, there are also direct ferries to other popular islands.

Check the ferry tickets and prices here .

Santorini Airport

Flying to Santorini is another option, as there are many direct flights to/from other European cities outside of Greece. For example, Paris or Amsterdam . Thira Airport is located on the east side of the island, and a taxi from the airport to Fira costs about 20 euros.

Getting around Santorini

Santorini is the perfect holiday-sized island, particularly as you can drive from North to the South in about 45 minutes. This allows you to explore the island in just a couple of days; however, we would recommend 4 nights/5 days as the perfect length for all the things to do in Santorini.

Santorini car rental

Feeling more comfortable driving a car? This is a safe and great option. Additionally, cars will come with AC, which is an advantage over being exposed to the sun on the ATV. There are many car rental locations on Santorini Island. For example, Santorini Airport, the port, or within the larger villages.

We recommend to rent a car in Greece through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

It’s recommended to book a rental car ahead of your trip, particularly during the high season. During this time, if you leave it until the last minute, you might not find an available rental car.

Public transport in Santorini

A great, and definitely the cheapest, way of getting around Santorini is to use the local buses. You can get a bus to pretty much anywhere on the island but you always have to use Fira (capital city) as the hub for all transfers. Therefore, if you’re planning to use the bus, we recommend getting a hotel in Fira too.

A one-way ticket costs about 2 euros, and the timetable per destination can be found on the operator’s website .

ATV or Motorbike rental

The most versatile way to get around Santorini is by renting an ATV/Quad or motorbike. It’s a fun way to explore the island as you can get anywhere, and it’s relatively cheap as well. The downsides are that it’s less safe, and on long drives, you’ll get way too much sun.

Depending on the season, you can expect to pay anywhere from 18 to 30 euros a day for a motorbike and 30 to 45 euros for an ATV/quad. The longer you rent it, the more discount you can expect to receive.

Although we wouldn’t recommend exploring the island by taxi, they are useful to get to the ferry port, to the airport, or to get from one town to another. Generally, a taxi from the harbor to Fira (15 minutes) is about 25 euros.

Your Budget for Santorini

Santorini is definitely one of the more expensive islands of Greece, especially between June and August when the price of accommodation and flights double. Credit cards and European cards, like Maestro, are widely accepted. Because of this, it’s not necessary to carry a lot of cash on you.

Costs of Traveling in Santorini

Travel on a budget in Santorini, from $300 − $770 USD weekly per person, mid-range $790 − $2770 USD, and high-end from $2670 − $4650 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

Hotels: $50 − $500 USD Check available hotels
Hostels: $15 − $80 USD Check available hostels
Transport: $10 − $50 USD Book public transport
Car Rental: $30 − $110 USD Book a rental car
Food: $15 − $45 USD
Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit Santorini

May to June, or September to October, is the best time to visit Santorini. The weather is usually around 20-25 degrees, with a cool breeze flowing over the island. At this time, prices haven’t reached their highest point, and there are far fewer tourists on the island.

Please note: If you’re visiting between November and April, many restaurants and hotels will still be closed. However, this could be a great opportunity for you to see a quiet Santorini.

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

Find Hotels via Booking.com
Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
Find Flights to Santorini via Skyscanner
Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

11 Best Things to do in Athens, Greece

Greek island hopping: ultimate greece travel guide, milos, greece: 12 best things to do.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

I am going to Santorini in July for a family wedding. I know it will be peak season and super hot. Would you have any tips relating to quiet times to visit attractions? I am 34 and my mum is 69 (I feel the heat will be too hot for her).

Hi Grace, we’d recommend visiting attractions first thing in the morning, ideally around sunrise. This is when places are most quiet, and it’s cooler. Have a great trip!

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me when new comments are added.

Saving Money & Budgeting
Packing & Travel Gear

Accommodations

Transportation.

Safety Tips
Long Term Travel
South Africa
Philippines
Puerto Rico
Czech Republic
Israel and Palestine
Mississippi
North Carolina
South Carolina
New Zealand
Travel Resources
Must-Have Items
Travel Inspo Books
Why The Cure for Curiosity?

10 Things to Know Before Visiting Santorini: Travel Guide for First Timers

Julia January 19, 2023 Greece 10 Comments

Heading to Santorini? In this travel guide, you’ll find everything you need to know before visiting Santorini, Greece, from when to go to where to stay.

Santorini, Greece is one of the most famous island destinations in the world. It features the iconic white washed buildings with beautiful blue domes looking out over the Aegean Sea. If it’s your first time heading to Greece and the Greek Isles, this Santorini travel guide for first timers will set you up with the basics you need to know before you go!

Disclosure: Some of the links below may be affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase.

Table of Contents

1. The Official Language of Greece: Greek

You are likely not surprised to learn that the official language in Santorini is Greek. However, there’s no need to worry if you aren’t fluent in Greek as the majority of locals on the island speak at least basic English. In fact, you’ll be impressed how many are fluent in English. There’s also a decent amount of German and French spoken around the island.

So even if you don’t speak Greek, you’ll be able to enjoy your trip to Santorini and communicate with the locals pretty easily. As always though, it never hurts to learn a few key phrases in the local language. To help get you started, the most common Greek greeting is “Hello”. In Greek it’s Γεια – pronounced “ Ya” .

2. The Currency of Greece: Euros

As with all of Greece and a majority of Europe and the Schengen Area , the main currency in Santorini is Euros. Fortunately, credit cards are widely accepted in Greece, particularly in the tourist areas. This includes around Santorini.

While many places will take credit card, there are other items that will need to be paid for in cash. In Santorini, you’ll find plenty of ATMs and banks around the island to withdraw cash or exchange currency.

3. Best Time to Visit Santorini

Santorini is a popular travel destination. Unfortunately, this means the island can be very crowded and expensive. When you visit Santorini matters. It will impact your experience and your budget. Let’s break it down into the best months to visit Santorini.

Summer (June to September)

Summer is the busiest season in Santorini, bringing highly inflated prices. Don’t let that put you off. There is a reason this is the high season. The temperature lingers around 85 degrees Fahrenheit (30 Celsius), and it’s perfect to enjoy the pool at your accommodation or frequent the beaches of Santorini.

If you plan to visit Santorini in the summer, pack lots of reef-safe sunscreen and drink lots of water. The sun can be brutal, but it also causes perfect beach weather and the epic sunsets Santorini is known for.

Shoulder Seasons (April/May and October/November)

Considered by many as the best time to visit Santorini, the shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather without the hordes of tourists. You’ll still have moderate weather, averaging a high of 64 degrees Fahrenheit (18 Celsius), but prices will be lower and you can wander the narrow walkways without the crowds.

The shoulder seasons have my recommendation as the best time to visit Santorini, even though it won’t be prime beach weather. To help hedge your bets, I’d aim for May or October to get some of the warmer summer weather in!

Winter (December to March)

The low tourist season for Santorini, winter can be a great time to visit. You’ll have less competition for hotel rooms and get to enjoy the stellar sunsets in Oia without the crowds. This can make winter desirable for those looking for a more intimate visit to Santorini.

However, if you’re thinking of visiting Santorini in winter, you should know that many places on the island are closed down for the off-season. This can limit your options of hotels, shops, and restaurants, but if that doesn’t bother you, pack some sweaters and plan your trip to Santorini!

White washed windmill with blue accents in Santorini, Greece

4. How to Stay Safe in Santorini

Like much of Europe, Santorini is considered pretty safe with the exception of petty crime. Your biggest concerns will be pickpocketing and petty theft as you push through crowds in Oia or you head out for a swim at the beach. All in all, don’t worry too much about safety in Santorini.

Be alert but not paranoid, and you should be fine. Just use your common safety precautions like these 35 Critical Safety Tips for Travelers . Too add some reassurance, I always recommend traveling with travel insurance . It will cover you for theft, illness, cancellation of travel plans, and more.

Check out World Nomad’s for travel insurance to take the risk out of your trip.

5. How to Get to Santorini

There are two main ways to get from Athens to Santorini: Ferry or Plane. Whichever route you take, I recommend booking ahead – particularly if you’re visiting Santorini in the busy season.

Bluestar Ferries: The Slow Ferry

The Bluestar ferry from Athens to Santorini or Piraeus to Thira ferry ports takes about 8 hours. The ferry ticket to Santorini starts at ~45 euros. This is the most budget friendly way to get to Santorini from the mainland, and is a great option if you have the time.

Seajets Ferries: The Fast Ferry

The faster ferry to Santorini is run by Seajets . It will still take about 5 hours and will cost almost twice as much – right around 85 euros.

By Plane: Fly into Santorini’s Airport

Santorini does have a small airport you can fly into. The airport code for Santorini is JTR. This 40 minute flight can be as cheap as the slow ferry if you book it at the right time and for the right season. Make sure to check for flights to Santorini as soon as you book your trip to Greece to try and snag a great price!

Book your ferries using Let’s Ferry or search flights on Expedia .

6. Getting around Santorini

No matter where you’re staying in Santorini, take a day or two to explore outside the area you’re staying in. With Santorini only being about 30 square miles, it’s easy to navigate the island, and you’ll want to check out all the amazing things to do in Santorini .

Buses on Santorini

Buses are the cheapest way to get around Santorini. The main bus company is KTEL Santorini, and it offers both express services city to city and normal services that will make stops in villages along the way. Fira is the central hub for buses, so any bus you take will eventually end up in Fira.

In peak season and daytime hours there are additional buses running to minimize the wait time. But, July to September buses may be full and require additional wait time.

Find the latest bus schedules here and prices are available here .

Self Drive around Santorini: Car or ATV

To have the most flexibility for traveling around Santorini, plan to rent a car or rent an ATV . With your own transportation in Santorini, you can come and go as you want and get to places further off the beaten path.

Driving in Santorini is on the right side of the road, like in the US, but roads may be more narrow than you’re used to. The main challenge you’ll encounter is parking, particularly in Oia. It’s worth noting that it can be easier to park an ATV than a car. Since the prices can be similar for renting a car and an ATV, select the option that works best for you!

Learn more about exploring Santorini by ATV .

Taxis around Santorini

It is also possible to get from one part of Santorini to another by taxi, but there are only 25 taxis that serve the island, so a taxi may be difficult to come by. The main taxi service is Santorini Taxi and can be reached by phone at +30 2286 022555 or booked ahead of time online .

Sunset in Oia - a must for this Santorini Travel Guide for First Timers

7. Where to Stay in Santorini

There are lots of great areas to use as your home base in Santorini, but what type of Santorini travel guide for first timers would this be if I didn’t point out that a stay in Oia is almost a rite of passage. It is the most touristy part of the island and by far the most expensive. It is also one of the most picturesque parts of the island.

Check out these incredible Oia hotels to see what types of luxury await you:

Hyperion Oia Suites
Andronis Arcadia Hotel
Canaves Oia Boutique Hotel

Read more: 10 Best Luxury Hotels in Oia , Santorini: Where to Stay

Or, if you are looking for a more reasonable cost or a more local feel, I recommend you check out Fira or Perissa. They offer completely different vibes, which you can learn all about in Where to Stay in Santorini, Greece: Fira or Perissa?

Fira is the central hub of the island and features the whitewashed buildings clinging to the dramatic cliffs, like Oia, while Perissa has more of a beach town flare. If you have time, you may want to split your time between the two.

Learn more about staying in Fira and Perissa .

8. What to Do in Santorini

Santorini is full of wonderful activities. From watching the world famous sunset in Oia to horseback riding on the beaches , you’ll never be bored on the island. And, best of all, there are a lot of free things to do in Santorini to help you stay within your budget.

If it’s your first time in Santorini, you won’t want to miss out on the 5 best things to do in Santorini:

Take in the stunning sunset in Oia
Hike from Fira to Oia
Visit the beaches of Santorini: Red, white, and black sand beaches
Go wine tasting at the many wineries in Santorini
Take a sunset cruise in Santorini

For a full list of Santorini activities and details, read Top 25 Things to Do in Santorini, Greece .

Sunset in Oia - a must do for first time visitors to Santorini

9. What to Eat in Santorini

If you’re headed to the Greek Isles, you will not be disappointed by the food! In fact, it’s one of my favorite parts! Santorini offers amazing Greek food, and with the rich volcanic soil, you’ll find flavorful fruits, vegetables, and wine in the area. Some traditional Greek foods you should try include:

Moussaka: A Greek style lasagna layered with eggplant, minced meat, spices, other vegetables, and bechamel sauce
Traditional Greek salad: Typically includes tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, red onions, olives, and feta cheese
Dips: Consider fava – a bean puree dip, or tzatziki – a yogurt, garlic, and cucumber dip
Baklava: A flaky filo pastry with layers of ground nuts and honey
Gyro: Thinly sliced meat generally served in a pita – a great treat for after a few glasses of wine!
Olives and olive oils

10. The Cost of Visiting Santorini

While Santorini is by no means a budget destination, you can make it an affordable trip at around $50/day, or you can take a luxury trip and spend far more. Here are some rough cost ideas to help first time visitors to Santorini budget.

There are backpacker friendly hostels all the way up to luxury 5 star hotels in Santorini. You can spend as low as $20 – 30/night or up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars each night.

The most affordable options tend to be on the southern side of the island in Perissa while the luxury accommodations are more equally spread out on the island. For the most fabulous views, I recommend checking out Oia on Santorini. It’s the city known for the best sunset in Santorini.

Search hotels in Santorini now.

Once on the island, you can keep your transportation budget low by taking the bus as needed at around 2 euros per ride. Or, take taxis if your budget permits. If you are planning to travel around a lot, ren ting a car or ATV may be the right option for you. These can start as low at 25+ euros and go up from there – especially in peak season!

Remember to take into account the cost of getting to and from the island from Athens ! The cheapest option is the slow ferry, as mentioned above, at 45+ euros each way.

Food is another area where you can spend as much or as little as you want. Keep you food budget lower by visiting the supermarkets or grabbing inexpensive filling foods, like gyros. These can run as low as 4 euros if you find the right place.

Attractions

There are lots of excellent free activities in Santorini , or you can schedule tours and day trips as your budget permits. As with any budget trip, I still recommend splurging on activities that are “essentials” to the location to make the most of your time there.

Read more about visiting Santorini on a budget with 16 Money Saving Tips for Santorini .

Additional Resources to Plan Your Trip to Greece

This Santorini travel guide for first timers provides a lot of key information you need to know about Santorini for your trip, but don’t stop your planning here! Check out these other resources for more insights on Santorini.

Top 25 Things to Do in Santorini
How to Rent a Quad in SantoriniATV: One Day Quad Rental
10 Best Luxury Hotels in Oia, Santorini: Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Santorini: Fira or Perissa?
What to Expect of Mykonos, Greece
One Week in Greece: A First Time Visitor’s Itinerary
How to Spend 1 Day in Athens, Greece: An Itinerary for First Time Visitors

New to international travel? Here’s 9 Essential Things to Do Before Traveling Abroad .

Like this post? Pin it.

Join the conversation Cancel reply

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

$50 cheap flights to santorini.

Bundle Your Flight + Hotel & Save!

Add a place to stay

Direct flights only

Featured airlines

How much is the cheapest flight to Santorini?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $50 for one-way flights and $87 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Find Your Flights to Santorini JTR

Cheap flights to Santorini ( JTR)

Get started finding a cheap flight to Santorini on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

We recommend using the ‘Flexible Dates’ calendar at the top of the page to see the price of plane tickets on the surrounding dates. This allows you to pick the cheapest days to fly if your trip allows flexibility and score cheap flight deals to Santorini.

Roundtrip prices range from $87 - $551, and one-ways to Santorini start as low as $50.

Be aware that choosing a non-stop flight can sometimes be more expensive while saving you time. And routes with connections may be available at a cheaper rate.

Airlines that fly to Santorini ( JTR)

You have several options for which airline you choose to travel with to Santorini. There are 10 airlines flying into JTR: Aegean, easyJet.

Cheap plane tickets may be available from different airlines at different times and with unique terms. It’s best to understand the details of each airline’s offer before judging its value.

For example, if you plan to check a bag or bring a carry-on, check whether the cheap airfare deal includes a baggage allowance. If not, verify whether the baggage fee is higher than the difference of other airline plane ticket deals offering free checked/carry-on baggage in exchange for a slightly higher airfare.

Additionally, your preferred frequent flyer membership programs may influence your choice of cheap airline. Expedia allows you to enter your membership numbers during checkout to earn points from your airline and Expedia Rewards—all while getting a great deal and planning all your travel in one online platform.

Find the best deals

At Expedia, we source many flight deals from multiple providers, so you can easily find the best deals that are right for you. A great strategy for getting the best deals can be to make sure you book and travel at the optimal times. Airfare to Santorini (JTR) varies throughout the year based on seasonal demand. You’ll see the lowest rates for roundtrips to JTR in July and in July for one-ways.

Cancellation & flexibility

To change or cancel eligible flights, go to ‘My Trips’ and navigate to your itinerary. If you booked within the last 24-hours, you might be able to cancel your flight for free. Learn more about flight changes or cancellations from our customer service portal . Some plane tickets are available with no change fees, which you can filter for during your search.

Frequently asked questions

Wherever you’re going, flying can be a relaxing experience if you come well prepared. First, pack your passport (or a valid ID), travel documents and medications. Next, throw in a little extra in-flight entertainment to help the time fly by. A good book and a tablet filled with the latest movies are fantastic options. If you plan on getting some sleep, a comfy neck pillow and earplugs will also come in handy.
There’s a lengthy list of items you should not pack in your carry-on too. Sharps, explosives and flammables are strictly prohibited in the cabin — they often include knives of any sort, flares and aerosol cans. Some sporting equipment, like tennis rackets and baseball bats, are also not allowed in your hand luggage. Your airline’s website will have all the details about what you can and can’t bring on board.
The aisles of a plane aren’t the place for a fashion parade. Layer up in comfortable clothing and bring a sweater since it can get cool in the cabin during long-haul flights. Sneakers or enclosed, flat shoes are best for longer journeys.
The condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It’s the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation. Strolling up and down the aisle and doing leg and foot exercises while seated can help prevent this developing. Wearing compression socks or tights also helps reduce your risk.

Get up to 100% off your flight to Santorini when booking a Flight + Hotel

Trending flights to santorini.

Top Flights Destinations

From Other Airports to Santorini

Top santorini hotels, more popular airlines.

Expedia's Latest Trends

Top Flight Destinations

Flights to Athens
Flights to Mykonos
Flights to Corfu
Flights to Paros
Flights to Skopelos
Flights to Thessaloniki
Flights to Naxos
Flights to Zakynthos
Flights to Rhodes
Flights to Lefkada
Flights to Milos
Flights to Skiathos
Flights to Ios
Flights to Chania
Flights to Kefalonia
Flights to Kos
Flights to Sparta
Flights to Hersonissos
Flights to Hydra
Flights to Kalamata

Top Flight Destinations In the World

Flights to United States of America
Flights to Japan
Flights to Philippines
Flights to Costa Rica
Flights to Italy
Flights to India
Flights to Thailand
Flights to Mexico
Flights to Greece
Flights to Dominican Republic
Flights to Bahamas
Flights to South Korea
Flights to Ireland
Flights to Australia
Flights to Spain
Flights to Vietnam
Flights to New Zealand
Flights to China
Flights to Germany
Flights to Canada
Chicago to Thira (ORD - JTR)
Newark to Thira (EWR - JTR)
Los Angeles to Thira (LAX - JTR)
Miami to Thira (MIA - JTR)
Boston to Thira (BOS - JTR)
Paris to Thira (CDG - JTR)
Fort Lauderdale to Thira (FLL - JTR)
Charlotte to Thira (CLT - JTR)
Washington to Thira (IAD - JTR)
New York to Thira (JFK - JTR)
Altemar Suites
Ira Hotel & Spa
Suites of the Gods Cave Spa
Ducato di Oia
Darwin Airline SA Lugano
Evergreen International
Ghadames Air Transport
Aircompany Kokshetau
Royal Airways Limited
Vietnam Air Service Co.
West Caribbean Costa Rica
Olympus Airways
Bulgarian Air Charter
Branson Air Express
Deutsche Bahn

Terms & Conditions
Special Events
instagram twitter facebook rss youtube

Destinations

Cook Islands
New Zealand
Papua New Guinea
USA (Hawaii)

Go Your Way...Tailor-made

Beach/Islands Escapes
Classics (Bestsellers)
Go As You Please
Private Experiences
Self-Drives
Snowbird/Long Stays
Stays of Distinction
Stopovers/City Breaks
Tailor-made Travel Ideas
Vacation Packages with Air

Other Ways to Go

Active & Adventurous
Cruises & Sailing
Escorted Coach Touring
Holidays of a Lifetime
18 to 30 Somethings
Rail Travel Ideas
Small Group Touring
Speciality Groups & Events
Family Vacations
Luxury & Beyond
Romance & Honeymoons
Singles Friendly
South Africa
More Countries

China & Tibet
Indonesia (Bali)
Chile & Easter Island
Ecuador & Galapagos
United States
Bucket List Travel Ideas
Multi Country Vacation Ideas
United Arab Emirates (Dubai)
Australia & South Pacific
Africa & Middle East
Central & South America
US & Canada
Idyllic Islands
UK & Europe
Arctic & Antarctica
Presidents Message
About Goway Travel
Special Services & Expertise
Company History
Goway's Early Days
The World of Travel in 1970
Goway Timeline
Our Website
Awards & Recognition

Our Services

Why Travel with Goway
Destination Knowledge
Group Service
Repeat Passenger Privileges
Make it Extra Special
Your Holiday Your Way
Value Added Extras
50+ Reasons Why to Go Downunder with Goway

Our Policies

Booking Conditions
Commitment to Accessibility
Consumer Protection Plans
Our Guarantee
Privacy Policy
Travel Insurance

News & Media

Globetrotting Blog

Globetrotting Magazine

Press Release Centre

Online Presentations

Travel Expos
Different Jobs at Goway
Train to be an Expert
Current Openings
Why Work at Goway
Employment FAQ's
Testimonials
World's Idyllic Islands
You are here
› UK & Europe
› Greece
› Santorini

Santorini Vacations, Trips & Travel Packages

Santorini is part of the Cyclades group of islands. It is an island, on a Greece vacation that you might imagine as an archetypal Greek Island with its white-washed houses and churches and blue sky. This very beautiful island was formed by a huge volcanic eruption which created a large lagoon in the middle of the island. It is consequently surrounded by steep cliffs on three sides. It still has an active volcano, the only one in the world whose crater is in the sea. The last big eruption occurred 3,600 years ago. Santorini has a reputation as being a romantic island with its crystal-clear waters perched on the rim of a volcano in the middle of the sea - add to this its amazing sunsets.

The capital is Fira, a town of proverbial white-washed houses which lies on top of a series of high cliffs. It is where you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the island and an amazing view of the volcano on trips to Greece. It is in Fira, on travel to Greece, that you can sit at a café, bar or restaurant and enjoy wonderful views of the harbour where the cruise ships call in. The Santorini Archaeological Museum in Fira has exhibits from Roman times to the 5th Century AD. For more dramatic views, take the cable from the town to the top of the cliff.

Akrotiri is an ancient city dating back to the Minoan civilization ( 2700–1420 BC) which was rediscovered only 50 years ago when it was found under the volcanic ash from an earthquake in the 1600’s BC. You can view three-storey buildings that survived plus roads, drainage systems and pottery. Like the Roman ruins of Pompeii, it is remarkably well-preserved. Excavated artifacts are shown in the Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Fira.

Oia is a very pretty village, again situated high on a top of a cliff overlooking the sea, with cave houses and restaurants built into the cliff edge. This is a place for white-washed blue-domed churches and charming, traditional Cycladic houses. Impressive houses in the town are "cliff houses" built in the niches carved into the caldera keeping them warm in winter and cool in summer. There are several small art galleries including the Art Gallery Oia. The town also has numerous restored churches. One of the most popular attractions in the town is watching the sunset. This is a special event every evening as the sunset lights up the houses.

Santorini is also known for its wine production which comes from its many vineyards scattered around the island. The most popular is the sweet and strong Vinsanto, a dessert wine.

Extend your Stay

Consider an additional stopover to your Greece vacation at one of Goway's other European destinations. You can choose from a Paris vacation , a London vacation or an Amsterdam vacation. This can be done stopping over en route to or from Greece.

10 Trips Available

Most Popular

Greece Deluxe: Athens, Santorini & Crete

Eat + Drink: Athens and Santorini

Gems of the Greek Isles: Athens, Milos, Santorini and Mykonos

Classic Greece with Rhodes: Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, Crete & Rhodes

Highlights of Santorini

Best of Greece: Athens, Mykonos & Santorini

Essence of Greece: Athens, Rethymno, Heraklion, Santorini & Paros

Athens and Santorini: Stay of Distinction

Discover Athens, Mykonos & Santorini

Grecian Getaway

Trip Finder

What our travelers say

Goway toolkit.

Need help planning your holiday? Our toolkit is a great place to get started.

Airfare Only

Looking for an airfare only? Ask the airfare experts at GowayAir.

Customise Your Trip

Let us customize a dream holiday for you. Your trip your way!

Get a Trip Quote

Need help in planning your perfect holiday? A FREE travel quote!

Need help in planning your perfect holiday FREE travel quote!

Need a Visa?

Do you need a Visa to enter? Let us assist with your travel documents.

The magazine for world travellers. Get your FREE subscription today.

eNewsletter Sign Up

Stay up to date with the latest travel info and destination deals!

Order a Brochure

Planning your next trip? Our brochures are loaded with great ideas.

Enjoy our online presentations from the comfort of your home.

Beach & Island Escapes
Romance & Honeymoon
Single Friendly
Specialty Groups & Events
Vacation Packages with Airfare
Peleponnese

Travel Information

Introduction
Things to do in Greece
Country Quickfacts
Food & Drink
Geography & Maps
Nature and Wildlife
Travel Tips, Visas & Health
Best Time to Visit Greece
Greece Frequently Asked Questions
Destinations Offering Affordable Luxury for a Post-Pandemic Vacation
Why You Shouldn't Wait to Book Your Post-Pandemic Vacation
How to Plan a Post-Pandemic Vacation
Greece Destination & Travel Guide
10 Best Countries for History Buffs
9 Countries That Have Great Local Cuisine
The World's Best Beach Vacation Destinations

Featured Tours

Highlights of Downunder
African Safaris
China Odyssey
A World in One Country
Classic Australia
Classic Thailand
Essential New Zealand
Rio, Iguassu Falls, & Buenos Aires
Essential Peru

BC Reg. #833-0; TICO Reg. #1543989; CST #2016613-20

Accessibility

Web Design by Atomic Motion Built by Bright Interactive

GOWAY DESTINATIONS

Athens Tourism
Athens Hotels
Athens Bed and Breakfast
Athens Vacation Rentals
Flights to Athens
Athens Restaurants
Things to Do in Athens
Athens Travel Forum
Athens Photos
All Athens Hotels
Athens Hotel Deals
Last Minute Hotels in Athens
Things to Do
Restaurants
Vacation Rentals
Travel Stories
Rental Cars
Add a Place
Travel Forum
Travelers' Choice
Help Center

Advice on connecting flight from Athens to Santorini - Athens Forum

Europe
Greece
Attica
Athens

Advice on connecting flight from Athens to Santorini

United States Forums
Europe Forums
Canada Forums
Asia Forums
Central America Forums
Africa Forums
Caribbean Forums
Mexico Forums
South Pacific Forums
South America Forums
Middle East Forums
Honeymoons and Romance
Business Travel
Train Travel
Traveling With Disabilities
Tripadvisor Support
Solo Travel
Bargain Travel
Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
Attica forums
Athens forum

I arrive at Athens airport from Munich at 6:30pm on May 29 (Lufthansa flight ). I would like to fly straight to Santorini that night but I am not sure if I would have enough time between flights . Would I have enough time to catch an 8:30pm flight to Santorini? I will have carry on only. There is also an 11:30pm flight but that would leave me waiting at the airport after a 14 hour travel day which doesnt sound appealing.

For context I was planning to fly straight to Santorini for 3 nights, then ferry to Naxos for a 5 night stay, then fly to Athens for a 3 night stay. But I could also do Athens first and the islands after. I have not booked any hotels yet, I have selected my favourites but trying to sort out the dates for each location first.

Thank you in advance for your advice!

2 replies to this topic

Athens airport is very efficient and normally including passport control and baggage pick up and back thorough security 2 hours is enough time.

You do not have to do any of these things. You will certainly have sufficient tine to catch that 8:30 connecting flight .

Many experienced travellers to Greece recommend you get to your first island immediately on arrival in Athens airport and leave Athens to the end of your trip which is exactly what your plan is.

Santorini and Naxos are both popular islands. I suggest your next priority will be to book hotels ASAP.

For Naxos I suggest you look for a hotel on 'St George beach. Its a good sand beach with lots of hotels and its also a part of Naxos town so you get a beach experience plus all the activities of Naxos town.

Santorini and Naxos are great companion islands. Santorini for the great views and Naxos for a more authentic Greek experience.

Here is Naxos

Around Naxos town 2022 https://www.flickr.com/photos/stanbr54/albums/72177720299959098

Back to Naxos 2022 https://www.flickr.com/photos/stanbr54/albums/72177720299940917

Trip around Naxos https://www.flickr.com/photos/stanbr54/albums/72157634605629689

St George Beach https://www.flickr.com/photos/stanbr54/albums/72177720299943096

Modernist Hotel for precruise? 6:00 pm
What time should I set for my timed Acropolis entance? 4:14 pm
changing time for Acropolis via Hellenic Heritage e-ticket 4:03 pm
Athena's Combined Ticket 3:14 pm
Strikes May 1st 10:39 am
Combined ticket timing when Acropolis is not the first stop 10:25 am
Extra 1 night , where to stay 9:56 am
May 5th-What will be open/closed? 9:35 am
Flying to Santorini yesterday
Advice on connecting flight from Athens to Santorini yesterday
Athens - Greek Easter Weekend yesterday
Taxi from Athens Airport to KouKaki Area yesterday
Best websites for booking boat travel Apr 26, 2024
Acropolis ticket purchasing problem on the HH ticket site Apr 26, 2024
What is the best area to stay in Athens? 5 replies
travelling from Athens Airport to Piraeus 30 replies
Where to stay in Athens? 19 replies
Best time to go to Greece 11 replies
travel from Athens - Dubrovnik (croatia) 23 replies
Economical hotel/B&B near the airport 11 replies
is it safe to travel to greece summer 2012? 3 replies
5 Days in Greece - What all to do? 25 replies
Golden Coast Holiday Club Resort, Marathon Greece 14 replies
Bus Athens to Istanbul 13 replies

Athens Hotels and Places to Stay

ATM withdrawals-info & warnings!
Acropolis & other sites tickets explained
2022 Guide to public transport in Athens
Where can I get a Covid test in Athens?
Getting to & from the airport.
What to do in Athens?
How much time in Athens?
Pickpocketing. Please read.
Visiting Athens for two days.
Visiting Athens for a day.
Food, food, food!
Wheelchair accessibility?
Budgeting tips - Freebies
Athens trip reports
SIM card at Athens airport

The Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Visit in Greece

H ave you ever felt the pull of ancient wonders and sun-soaked shores calling your name? If Greece isn't on your travel radar yet, it should be. But with so many iconic destinations, where should one start?

Problem: Greece, with its vast landscapes and historic locales, can be overwhelming for a first-time visitor. Where should one begin?

Agitate: Imagine landing in Greece and realizing you've missed some of its hidden gems or spent too much time at overly crowded tourist traps.

Solve: Fear not! We've got you covered with the creme de la creme of Greek destinations.

The magnetism of Athens
Santorini's sunsets are a dream
Crete: A blend of beaches and history
Delving into Delphi
Rhodes: A medieval wonder

A Journey Through Time: Athens

The beating heart of Greece, Athens beautifully melds the ancient with the modern. Its centerpiece, the Acropolis, stands as a testament to Greece's glorious past and is one of the country's 18 UNESCO World Heritage sites .

Santorini's Sun-Kissed Beauty

If you've seen a postcard-perfect picture of Greece, chances are it was from Santorini. Famous for its stunning sunsets, blue-domed churches, and white-washed buildings, it's no wonder it's one of Greece's top destinations.

Crete's Diverse Charm

Crete offers an eclectic mix of beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and lively towns. Don't miss the Palace of Knossos, a key Minoan site.

Delphi: The Ancient World's Navel

Once believed to be the center of the world in ancient Greek religion, Delphi offers a spiritual and historical journey like no other.

Rhodes: A Walk Through Medieval Times

Stroll the Street of the Knights in Rhodes and be transported back to the Middle Ages. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts of palaces, towers, and delightful surprises at every turn.

"Greece is a good place to look at the moon, isn’t it?" Hemingway wasn't wrong. Whether you're gazing at a starlit sky in a rural village or soaking in the moon's reflection over the Aegean, Greece's beauty is truly enchanting.

Kevin's Insider Tips

For a real treat, visit the lesser-known island of Naxos. With its pristine beaches and ancient temples, it's a slice of untouched Greece. And when in Athens, seek out the small tavernas where locals dine to enjoy authentic Greek cuisine at its best.

The Essence of Greek Hospitality

There's an ancient Greek word, philoxenia , which translates to 'friend to the stranger' or 'love of strangers.' It epitomizes the Greek approach to hospitality, showcasing their warmth and open-heartedness. As you traverse the historic streets of Athens, or meander through the quaint alleyways of islands like Corfu and Paros, this spirit is palpable.

Mythology and Modern Greece

The tales of gods, goddesses, heroes, and monsters have been intricately woven into Greece's cultural fabric. Every mountain, spring, or grove has its story, its legend. For instance, Mount Olympus is not just a mountaineering marvel; it's the legendary abode of the gods. The Oracle of Delphi wasn't just a priestess; she was the voice of the god Apollo, speaking in riddles. In modern Greece, these tales aren't mere stories; they're a testament to the nation's rich history and ethos. While visiting, Kevin Erickson suggests attending a local storytelling session or a mythological tour. It provides an immersive experience, allowing you to view famous sites through the lens of ancient tales.

Local Festivals – A Glimpse into Greek Culture

If there's one thing that stands out about Greece, it's the zest for life exhibited by its people. Throughout the year, numerous festivals and events take place across the country. Whether it's the Carnival with its vibrant parades, the Sardine Festival in Lesvos celebrating the humble fish, or the Athens & Epidaurus Festival showcasing theater, dance, and music – there's always something happening. For travelers, attending these festivals offers an authentic taste of Greek culture, far removed from the usual tourist traps. Kevin's pro tip: Always check the local calendar of the place you're visiting. You might stumble upon a local celebration, providing memories to last a lifetime .

Incorporating these elements into your journey transforms it from a mere trip to a soulful experience, filled with stories, flavors, and the undying spirit of philoxenia . Greece, with its blend of the ancient and the modern, awaits with open arms.

From its iconic sites to its hidden gems, Greece promises an unforgettable journey. So pack your bags , and let the allure of olive groves, ancient ruins, and azure waters draw you in.

When is the best time to visit Greece?

The ideal period is during spring (April to early June) and autumn (September and October) when the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists.

Is Greece expensive for tourists?

Greece offers a range of options for different budgets. While some islands like Mykonos can be pricier, there are many affordable destinations and choices.

Do locals speak English?

In tourist areas and cities, many Greeks speak English, especially the younger generation. However, it's appreciated if you learn a few basic Greek phrases.

Is Greece safe for travelers?

Greece is generally safe for travelers, but as with any destination, it's essential to take standard precautions.

What's the local cuisine like?

Greek cuisine is a Mediterranean delight! From moussaka to souvlaki and fresh seafood, there's a plethora of dishes to try.

Clever Journey | Travel Gear Reviews, Packing Tips, Travel Advice

The magical island of Santorini, Greece

IMAGES

Santorini Holidays Package
Santorini Travel Essentials
10 Best Things to Do in Santorini
The Best Sunset Viewing Spots on Santorini
12 Best Things To Do In Santorini, Greece
Top 10 Interesting Facts About Santorini

VIDEO

Santorini Trip 🦋
GREECE VLOG
santorini, greece
Santorini (Greece) Travel Guide
Santorini Greece Trip || One Of The Most Beautiful European Travel Destination || Snivi
Santorini#1 / Greece

COMMENTS

Santorini Vacation Packages 2024 from $605
per person. Jun 17 - Jun 22. Roundtrip flight included. Athens (ATH) to Thira (JTR) 9/10 Wonderful! (25 reviews) Cleanliness was excellent. Rev. Bundle Santorini flight + hotel & save up to 100% off your flight with Expedia. FREE cancellation on select hotels .
21 Things You Need To Know For A Trip To Santorini (2024)
RECOMMENDED WEBSITES FOR GREECE: 🛏️ Booking.com is the website with the most available rooms and Private Villas in Athens, Santorini , Mykonos & Crete (more than Airbnb!). ⛴️ Ferryhopper is the best website to book your ferry tickets or check the timetables for Santorini, Mykonos , Crete & all greek islands. 🏺 Get Your Guide has the best and largest variety of Tours in Athens and ...
First time Santorini: top tips for your first trip
Reach Santorini by ferry, catamaran or plane. Frequent ferries and high-speed catamarans link Santorini with Athens' main port of Piraeus, Crete and various Cycladic islands. Check OpenSeas for ferry timetables. Santorini Airport has year-round flight connections with Athens, and summertime European connections.
Santorini: All You Must Know Before You Go (2024)
About Santorini. This Cyclades island in the Aegean Sea looks like a place straight out of a fairy tale, with candy-colored houses carved into cliffs, sapphire waters, and chalk-white buildings topped with cobalt-blue domes. Roam the peaceful black-sand beaches or stroll the streets of one of Santorini's charming villages (start at Imerovigli).
Santorini Travel Guide
Santorini Travel Guide Greece # 2 in Best Places to Visit in September 2024 View All 23 Photos » View All 23 Photos » View All 23 Photos » View All 23 Photos » View All 23 Photos » View All ...
Santorini Greece
Santorini is an island in Greece, located in the Aegean Sea, 200 km southeast of Athens, 150 km south of Mykonos, and 140 km north of Crete. Flights to Santorini take 4 hours from London, 3.5 hours from Paris, 2 hours from Rome, and 1 hour from Athens. There are no direct flights to Santorini from the USA, Canada, or Australia.
How to Get to Santorini, Greece
Step 3: Take the metro (20 to 30 minutes) or taxi (30 to 40 minutes) to the Piraeus ferry port. Most ferries leave in the morning, plan to arrive 1 hour in advance. Step 4: Enjoy the ride to Santorini. The trip from Athens to Santorini takes 5 hours on a highspeed ferry and 8 hours on a conventional ferry.
Santorini Greece Travel Guide & Best Things To Do
Best Things To Do In Santorini Greece. 1. Oia Village. Oia village (pronounced 'ee-yuh') has some of the most beautiful views and accommodation in Santorini, with historic churches, colorful flowers, and epic ocean views. This is the place you always see in the famous postcard photos of Santorini Greece.
Santorini
Take a boat trip to an island in the caldera. You can easily rent a boat or hop on a day cruise at Athinio, Gialos or Ammoudi and take a tour around the caldera. Discover the islands opposite Santorini, especially Thirasia where you can experience the Santorini of 50 years ago. Head back in time with a boat trip to Thirasia
Santorini travel
Santorini. Greece, Europe. If you approach Santorini from the water, it's hard not to be awed by the sheer cliffs that soar above a turquoise sea, by the fact that you're sailing in an immense crater of a drowned volcano and that before you lies an island shaped by an ancient eruption cataclysmic beyond imagining. Best Time to Visit.
11 best things to do in Santorini
6. Catch a movie at the open-air cinema. Given Santorini's beautiful weather, you'll definitely want to make time for an outdoor movie during the warm evenings. Hosting one of the best open cinemas in the world, Kamari Village boasts tasty cocktails, trendy director's-chair seating and, of course, popcorn.
Santorini Greece: Travel Guide 2024
Discover our best island hopping packages including Santorini island! Athens - Mykonos - Santorini 7 days from € 990.00. Athens - Santorini - Naxos 7 days from € 816.00. Athens - Mykonos - Paros - Santorini 9 days from € 1190.00. Athens - Mykonos - Santorini - Crete 10 days from € 1762.00. View more packages.
A guide to Santorini
By bus. There is no direct bus to Santorini airport. You'll need to take two buses, firstly to Fira and then change at the main bus depot for the airport bus. Tickets are cash only and cost €2.30 per person for the Fira bus which you'll pay to the driver. The trip takes about 20 minutes.
The Perfect 3 Days in Santorini Itinerary for First Timers
It takes around 5-7 hours to reach Santorini from Athens, and 2-3 hours from Paros and Naxos. Usually, there are more ferry operator companies on the same route with various prices and duration. You can use the below search box to compare ferries and check the schedules. One Way. Round Trip.
Santorini Itinerary for 1, 2, 3, 5, or 7 Days
The best sights, tours, restaurants, bars, beaches, views, shopping, attractions, and things to do in Santorini, Greece - Itineraries for 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, and 7 days. Santorini Itinerary. Greece › Santorini › Santorini in 1 ... Our plan is to stay in Athens for 2 nights (July 13, 14), travel to Santorini and stay there for 4 nights ...
Santorini Travel Guide
Santorini General Hospital (Fira): +30 2286 035300. Santorini Airport: +30 2286 028400. Santorini Ferry Port Athinios: +30 2286 025015. A comprehensive Santorini Travel Guide from what to see, what to visit, where to stay, what to eat, where to swim, and how to get around Santorini Island by a Greek expert.
Santorini, Greece Vacation Packages
The Wine Island. Click for Deals. The five islands that form Santorini were created through volcanic activity, making this crescent-shaped jewel a scenic marvel in the Aegean Sea. An active volcano (not to worry, the last big eruption was more than 3,000 years ago) as well as a dream romantic destination, Santorini's stunning scenery is ...
Santorini Vacation Packages from $1,801
per person. Jun 18 - Jun 21. Roundtrip flight included. Athens (ATH) to Thira (JTR) This guesthouse features a bar/lounge, free WiFi in public areas, and a terrace. Enjoy the free cooked-to-order breakfast each morning. A snack bar/deli and locker space are also provided.
Santorini: Ultimate Greece Travel Guide
Your Guide To Greece. Updated on: January 18, 2023. Guides. Thanks in part to its popularity with celebrities, and its Instagram-worthy scenery, Santorini has become one of the world's hottest travel destinations in recent memory. This small Greek island in the south Aegean Sea was formed by a massive volcanic eruption roughly 3,600 years ago.
Santorini Travel Guide: Things To Do in Santorini, Greece
Don't forget a travel insurance for your Greece trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5&percnt; off! ... Costs of Traveling in Santorini. Travel on a budget in Santorini, from $300 − $770 USD ...
10 Things to Know Before Visiting Santorini: Travel Guide for First Timers
Olives and olive oils. 10. The Cost of Visiting Santorini. While Santorini is by no means a budget destination, you can make it an affordable trip at around $50/day, or you can take a luxury trip and spend far more. Here are some rough cost ideas to help first time visitors to Santorini budget.
Santorini All inclusive Vacations 2024
Santorini, located in the South Aegean region of Greece, offers a truly unique all-inclusive vacation experience. This picturesque island is renowned for its stunning sunsets, breathtaking volcanic landscapes, and crystal-clear blue seas. Visitors can embark on exciting excursions and boat trips, explore the beautiful beaches, and marvel at the ...
$50 Cheap Flights to Santorini
How much is the cheapest flight to Santorini? Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $50 for one-way flights and $86 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply. Looking for cheap flights to Santorini? Many airlines offer no change fee on selected flights and ...
Santorini Greece
Tour the world-famous Acropolis in Athens, Greece's ancient capital, before sampling the iconic nightlife of Mykonos and the rugged volcanic landscape of Santorini in the Cyclades. Duration: 11 Days. Prices From: AU$ 4,714. Trip Type: Bucket List Travel Ideas, Romance & Honeymoon, Tailor-made Travel Ideas.
Advice on connecting flight from Athens to Santorini
Hello all, first I want to say thank you to everyone who replies to posts on the forum - I have gathered so much valuable information from here while planning my first trip to Greece!. I arrive at Athens airport from Munich at 6:30pm on May 29 (Lufthansa flight).I would like to fly straight to Santorini that night but I am not sure if I would have enough time between flights.
The Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Visit in Greece
Santorini's Sun-Kissed Beauty. If you've seen a postcard-perfect picture of Greece, chances are it was from Santorini. Famous for its stunning sunsets, blue-domed churches, and white-washed ...
The magical island of Santorini, Greece
The magical island of Santorini, Greece. ... Best Pet Insurance Best Travel Insurance Best Credit Cards Best CD Rates Best Personal Loans Home Internet. TRAVEL. Greece. Add Topic.

21 Things You Need To Know To Plan A Trip To Santorini

Get my secrets for Greece and Santorini in your email!

RECOMMENDED WEBSITES FOR GREECE:

1. What is Santorini?

2. Where is Santorini?

3. Where To Stay in Santorini ?

This is the rule of thumb to remember for when searching the best area to stay in Santorini:

4. When Is The Best Time to Visit Santorini ?

The best time to visit Santorini is late September or early October !

In terms of how crowded the island will be, here is a rough guide :

5. How To Get To Santorini ?

6. How To Book flight and ferry tickets to Santorini?

7. Are There Any Direct Flights to Santorini ?

8. What Is The Caldera?

9. How Many Days Should You Spend in Santorini?

Is a Day Trip from Athens to Santorini possible?

10. Santorini or Mykonos ?

11. Best Greek Islands Near Santorini

12. Best Sunset Views in Santorini

13. How To Rent A Quad in Santorini ?

14. Money in Santorini. Do I Need Cash ?

15. Can I move around with the local buses in Santorini?

16. How To Rent A Car in Santorini ?

17. What Are The Best Boat Tours in Santorini ?

18. What Are The Best Things To Do in Santorini ?

19. What Are The Best Wineries and Wine Tours in Santorini?

20. Shopping in Santorini. Any good?

21. Is Santorini family and kids-friendly? Is it Safe?

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

TOP RATED HOTELS IN:

TOP RATED VILLAS IN:

BEST THINGS TO DO IN SANTORINI:

ALL AVAILABLE FERRIES TO GREEK ISLANDS:

Santorini Secrets

Santorini Travel Guide

Why Go To Santorini

Best of Santorini

Best Things to Do in Santorini

Popular Tours

Santorini Travel Tips

Weather in Santorini

How to Save Money in Santorini

Culture & Customs

What to Eat

Getting Around Santorini

Entry & Exit Requirements

Explore More of Santorini

Things To Do

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Santorini Greece Travel Guide & Best Things To Do

Where To Stay In Santorini

Best Santorini Tours

Where Is Santorini Island?

How To Get To Santorini Greece

Transport: How To Get Around On Santorini

Best Things To Do In Santorini Greece

2. Fira Village

3. Imerovigli Village

4. Perissa Beach

More Things To Do In Santorini Greece

5. Megalochori

7. Prophet Elias Mountain

8. Akrotiri Lighthouse

9. Akrotiri Museum

Best Santorini Beaches

Santorini Island Map

Best Sunrise / Sunset Spots In Santorini Greece

Other Santorini Tips

Is Santorini Safe?

Santorini On A Budget — Is It Possible?

How Long To Stay In Santorini Greece