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Things to do

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Your Santorini Vacation

Build a custom vacation package to Santorini and get ready for your next big adventure. Stay in the neighborhood of Órmos Athiniós, which is good for gift and craft shops and cafes, for a real taste of this vibrant city. If your trip to Santorini includes a little sightseeing, check out major attractions such as Red Beach , Museum of Prehistoric Thira and Archaeological Museum of Thera . Whoever you're escaping with and whatever you plan to spend, your ultimate Santorini vacation is just clicks away with Expedia.

The Latest Santorini Vacation Packages

Edem Luxury Hotel Santorini Finikia

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Grand Ambassador Santorini Hotel

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Santorini Essential Information

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Where to go when

Frequently asked questions, discover the most 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.

What to do in Santorini

Santorini day tour with sunset in oia, half-day exclusive catamaran cruise in santorini with meal and open bar, santorini gold catamaran cruise with bbq, drinks and hotel pickup, other vacations you might like.

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Explore Santorini

Plan your trip to santorini: best of santorini tourism.

Travel Advice

Essential santorini.

How to do Santorini in 2 days

The top tastes of Santorini

Browse collections

More Greek seaside towns

Santorini Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips or experiencing santorini.

Go in late May or late Sept and enjoy it without the huge crowds and manageable pricing.

brotherleelove

Tipping is not widely practiced in Greece the same way it is in the States. For meals you can just leave a couple of euros — a percentage isn't the rule.

Chris_Fulton

Cards are accepted almost everywhere. The only places we found that didn't accept cards were the buses and some smaller shops (bakeries, etc). Also be aware that ATMs will charge a fee for withdrawing cash (anywhere from 2€-4€ per withdrawal).

Truly one of the wonders of the world.

Breath-taking! Words can't describe the beauty of the island.

The first time you look out onto the caldera from Imerovigli and take it all in will never get old. Once in a lifetime isn't enough… It’s amazing!

What is the best way to get there?

Santorini (Thira) International Airport receives seasonal direct flights in high tourist seasons from various European destinations. Long-haul flights typically connect in Athens. Shuttles and taxis run from the airport to the island’s towns and resorts.

Regular ferries leave from Piraeus ferry port near Athens and arrive at Athinios ferry port near Fira. Santorini also has ferry links with Mykonos and other Greek islands.

Do I need a visa?

Greece is part of the Schengen Area with many other European countries. This means tourists from certain countries don’t require a visa for trips less than 90 days -- as long as your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned departure date.

Find more information about the Schengen Visa and what countries are exempt here .

When is the best time to visit?

Summer (June to August): Summer is Santorini’s high season and brings with it a number of music and cultural festivals. Average highs at this time are in the low 80°F (high 20°Cs) — ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and cruising the neighboring islands.

But to avoid the crowds and benefit from slightly lower prices on tours and accommodation, visiting in May or September/October is a smart choice and temperatures often still reach 77°F (25°C).

Hiring a car is the most convenient way to get around and rentals are available at the airport and major hotels.

KTEL operates buses between the main towns of Fira, Oia, Perissa, and Kamari, but getting to smaller towns and beaches is not possible by public transport.

For more information about timetables and fares, see here .

Taxis are available in Fira and will take you to most places on the island. Rideshare services such as Uber are not available.

On the ground

What is the timezone.

Eastern European Standard Time.

What are the voltage/plug types?

The standard voltage in Santorini is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz. The plug has two round pins.

What is the currency?

Are atms readily accessible, are credit cards widely accepted.

Yes, except in smaller shops and cafés. It’s still advisable to carry some cash.

How much do I tip?

Tipping is not obligatory on Santorini, however, a 10-15% tip for exceptional service is always appreciated.

Are there local customs I should know?

The federal legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 18 years old.

Tap water in Santorini can be used to wash and brush your teeth, but is not recommended for drinking — stick to bottled water instead.

Public transport

Allow others to disembark before boarding, don’t take up more than one seat, and stand to offer seating to pregnant women or someone with a disability.

Try to speak the language

Learn a few basic phrases as a sign of respect. Locals will often switch to English for your ease and comfort but they appreciate the effort.

Aria Suites
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Alleys Boutique & Spa Hotel
Beefbar Santorini
Santo Athiri Restaurant
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Ftelos Brewery Santorini - MALT Restaurant
Hiking Trail Fira - Oia
Santorini Volcano
Megalochori - Traditional Village
Hot Springs
Oia's Main Street
Santorini Must-See Highlights: Private Sightseeing Tour
Santorini Caldera Cruise Tour (Volcano, Hot Springs, Thirassia)
Santorini Day Tour with Sunset in Oia
Santorini Volcano and Hot Springs Cruise Tour from Fira Old Port
Santorini 5 Hour Custom Private Sightseeing Tour

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

Edem Luxury Hotel Santorini Finikia

Rocabella Santorini Hotel & SPA

Vineyard Exclusive Suites

Alisaris Caves

Divino Caldera

Top santorini hotel deals.

Ira Hotel & Spa

Ducato di Oia

Caldera Premium Villas - Adults Only

Suites of the Gods Cave Spa

Altemar Suites

Santo Pure Oia Suites & Villas

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 beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.

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

Photos of local treasures

Oia showing a luxury hotel or resort, general coastal views and a coastal town

Frequently asked questions

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Unique Experiences

Luxurious food and wine, a lighted candle and a small flowerpot with olive tree overlooking the sea from above at sunset.

Explore the island’s villages

Filming in santorini.

LARA CROFT: TOMB RAIDER, THE CRADLE OF LIFE (2003)

British archaeologist Lara Croft has made perhaps the most important archaeological discovery in history: an orb that leads to the mythical Pandora's Box. Unfortunately, the orb falls into the hands of an evil scientist who deals in killer viruses and hopes to sell the secrets of the box as the ultimate weapon...

DIRECTOR: JAN DE BONT FILMING LOCATION: SANTORINI

THE SISTERHOOD OF THE TRAVELLING PANTS 2 (2005)

For the first time since their friendship began, four young girls are separated for a summer. One of them, Lena, visits her grandparents in Greece and meet Kostas, with whom she falls in love...

DIRECTOR: KEN KWAPIS FILMING LOCATION: SANTORINI

BEIJING LOVE STORY (2014)

Different generations look at love, romance and commitment, all from a uniquely Beijing perspective; a pregnant woman must choose between her husband and an ex-love who comes back into her life, a couple looks toward a trip to Greece to confront their own infidelity, and a young couple must decide whether to listen to their parents' reason or their emotional heart.

DIRECTOR: CHEN SICHENG FILMING LOCATION: SANTORINI

Local Dishes

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Night view of a large ancient gate in the foreground and in the background a Cycladic settlement with a port.

Ferry routes

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!

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 .

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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!

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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:

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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)

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Santorini Secrets

Effective Greece Travel

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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.

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The Ultimate Guide to Santorini, Greece: Best Things to Do

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Updated May 2024

If there’s one island I can never get enough of, it’s certainly Santorini. This ultimate guide to Santorini, Greece is just a taste of the incredibly beautiful this place is. After taking two separate trips to Santorini, I want to share my favorite things to do, where to stay, and more.

The tall cliffs overlook the caldera, creating the ultimate place to escape to in Greece . The warm hospitality, whitewashed houses of Oia, and the golden sunsets are highlights of a stay in Santorini. As part of the Cyclades, you’re in the heart of Greece’s iconic islands.

The Ultimate Guide to Santorini, Greece: Best Things to Do

Santorini is an iconic gem nestled in the Aegean Sea. Cascading whitewashed buildings adorned with cobalt blue domes cling to dramatic cliffs, overlooking the endless expanse of the sea. From the breathtaking vistas from the edge of the caldera to the volcanic red beach, every corner of Santorini has elements of ancient history and modern luxury.

I find that a minimum of three nights is necessary to properly explore Santorini. Part of the charm of visiting this island is kicking back at a hotel with a view, so be sure to budget in time for this too. Santorini has this very easygoing feel to it, which is why I love to recommend it for honeymooners as well.

So if you’re planning your trip to Santorini, read on for a guide for everything you need to know. I’m sharing some favorite eats, where to play, and where to stay on the iconic Grecian island.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels in Santorini:

Katikies Hote l (Oia), for the best luxury, romantic hotel
Grace Hotel (Imerovigli), for the best-secluded hotel
Astra Suites (Imerovigli), for the best design for the dollar

The Ultimate Guide to Santorini, Greece

Good to know before visiting santorini.

The Best Way to Get to Santorini

The best ways to reach Santorini are by flying into Santorini National Airport (JTR) from major European cities via direct flights during peak tourist seasons or by taking a ferry from Athens’ ports, like Piraeus or Rafina, which offer year-round services. Ferries provide a scenic journey across the Aegean Sea, taking around 5-8 hours depending on the type of ferry and route.

Additionally, during summer, there are direct flights and ferries connecting Santorini to other popular Cyclades islands like Mykonos, Crete, and Rhodes. The choice between flying and ferry largely depends on factors such as itinerary, budget, and preference for travel time and experience.

Best Time of Year to Visit Santorini

The best time to visit Santorini is typically from late April to early November when the weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for exploring the island. May and September are particularly good months as they offer pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation prices compared to the peak summer months of June to August.

However, if you prefer a quieter experience, visiting during the shoulder seasons of late April to early June or late September to early November can also be rewarding, as you’ll still enjoy pleasant weather while encountering fewer tourists. Keep in mind that while Santorini is beautiful year-round, some businesses may close during the winter months, and the weather can be cooler and unpredictable.

Do I Need a Car in Santorini?

You can easily pass on a car if you plan to visit just Fira or Oia, but it may be worth renting one to visit the greater island. Most people use taxi to get around the island. If you do opt for a rental car, I recommend Discover Cars for the best car rental rates and coverage.

How Many Nights in Santorini?

I always recommend a minimum of three nights to soak in Santorini. You’ll want one day to chill by the pool and at the hotel, and another day or two to explore the island.

For more things to do in Greece, check out this page .

Where to Stay in Santorini

The debate on whether to stay in Oia or Fira is always a good one. I often suggest splitting the stay to get two different feels as the views are different. Fira tends to be busier with where the cruise ships dock, but there are some incredible hotels off the path.

Oia tends to be better in terms of scenery and sunsets, but I’ve found the restaurants to be a bit more touristy. You can easily visit either by taxi as well. Here are my favorite hotels in Santorini:

Mystique Santorini (Oia), for the best views
Kirini Suites (Oia), for the best ultra luxe stay

What to Do in Santorini (Best Things to Do)

See the Sunset from Oia

Catch the sunset from Oia overlooking the ocean — it’s a must-do at least once. The sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant hues – from fiery oranges and pinks to soft purples and blues. The Oia Castle ruins, situated at the western tip of the village, offer a prime vantage point for watching the sun sink into the Aegean Sea. Additionally, the cliffs and terraces along the caldera rim in Oia provide stunning panoramic views.

Sailing Day

Head out on a boat to sail the Aegean waters. One of the best things I did while in Santorini was sailing in the caldera (all formed by a volcanic eruption). You get incredible views of the volcanic islands and can sit back and relax. The company I used is no longer in operation, but this highly-rated sailing experience is what I would book. Or you could do a sunset sail with a dinner as well.

Take a Hike

One of the most famous trails is the Fira to Oia hike , which follows the caldera rim and offers breathtaking views of the volcanic cliffs, traditional villages, and the sparkling Aegean Sea. This approximately 10-kilometer route takes around 2 to 4 hours to complete, depending on your pace and stops along the way. Another great hike is out to Skaros Rock which I did on my last trip. Located near the village of Imerovigli, Skaros Rock is a dramatic rocky outcrop that juts out into the Aegean Sea, offering panoramic vistas of the caldera and surrounding islands. Once you reach Skaros Rock, you can explore the ruins of the medieval fortress that once stood atop the rock, providing a fascinating glimpse into Santorini’s past.

Go Wine Tasting

Santorini is home to many local wineries that you can opt to visit while there. Santorini is renowned for its volcanic soil, which imparts distinctive flavors to its wines, particularly the Assyrtiko grape variety. Some popular wineries to visit include Santo Wines , Gaia Wines , and Domaine Sigalas , each offering stunning views of the caldera and the opportunity to taste some of Santorini’s finest wines.

Explore Amoudi Bay

Make the walk down to pop into the bay for local fish restaurants. The port is really charming and you’ll see fishermen coming in with fresh fish from the day. I love to go around the corner and jump off the rocks for a dip in the sea.

Explore Oia

Take in the views from Oia and get lost along the winding alleys. You can also take a day trip to the black sand beach or the red rock beach across the island if you’re looking to get out. Truly one of the best things to do in Oia is to simply just wander the little roads.

Where to Eat in Santorini

Skiza Cafe (Oia)

It’s nestled in the heart of the postcard-perfect village of Oia, Skiza Cafe is where you go for that ultimate Santorini vibe without the fuss. Come here to get some incredible baklava as well.

Rastoni (Fira)

Tucked away in the heart of Fira, Santorini’s bustling capital, this cozy little spot offers a taste of authentic Greek hospitality. With its whitewashed walls, vibrant flowers, and welcoming atmosphere, Rastoni is the perfect escape — the views here are spectacular. Rastoni serves up delicious Mediterranean cuisine with a side of island charm. I would call ahead to get a seat on their terrace.

Aktaion (Firostefani)

Aktaion in Fira is a hidden gem in the heart of Santorini’s capital. This cozy taverna exudes that unmistakable Greek island vibe, with its whitewashed walls, colorful flowers, and laid-back atmosphere. You’ll find all of the classic Greek dishes like moussaka and souvlaki or fresh seafood straight from the Aegean.

1800-Floga (Oia)

This was one of my favorite spots for a rooftop view with a drink. Super easygoing.

Naoussa (Fira)

Naoussa in Fira is a Santorini must-visit for those craving a taste of Greece with a modern twist. This chic restaurant seamlessly blends traditional Greek flavors with contemporary flair.

Ammoudi Fish Tavern (Ammoudi Bay, Oia)

Always packed, it’s some of the freshest seafood and worth the wait right at sea level. This is such a classic spot for a bite in Santorini, and I’ve been here on both trips now. The open-air restaurant is truly a highlight and the sunset views here are also great.

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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

World Nomads (best for all-around)
Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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You’ve really managed to capture Santorini in a fresh light. As arguably the most famous island destination in Greece, the travel blogging sphere is over-saturated with Santorini content, but your photography is just sublime. You’ve re-sparked my interest in traveling there! What time of the year would you recommend for visiting?

http://www.thegingerpassports.com

Dani, thank you so much for the kind words!! It means the world. I’d recommend going in late May or early September. The island kind of shuts down from October-April as the winds can get pretty bad.

I recently saw a video on Instagram of someone staying in Santorini and the most amazing and beautiful sunset I think I’ve ever seen in my life, it moved very quickly up my bucket list.

It always looks so awesome, but so expensive and on my current budget travel adventure, it may be one of those places I have to save up for and treat myself!

http://www.bodywithmind.co.uk

It’s definitely a splurge trip and I would recommend definitely going!!

Hi Jessica! This is such a great piece! My husband and I are doing Greece his coming June. We are taking a cruise and then plan on staying about 5-6 days in either Santorini or Mykonos. Would you recommend splitting the trip and doing both or picking one? We never get to relax so we will be doing more relaxing then trying to hustle around seeing everything. We were just going to do one but after reading your posts I’m so torn!! Thank you!

Your pictures are so beautiful! I can’t wait to visit Greece!

Santorini, is a dreamy place. There are several heavenly place in Greece, but this might be one of the best. I always travel to taste the food first ( I am a food lover). And when it meets with dreamy blue water and the view from up hill, just feels like heaven.

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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

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Visit Santorini, Greece

Accommodation
Things to do

A striking volcanic setting, traditional white houses teetering on cliffsides, and vivid sunsets make Santorini one of the best-loved Greek islands. Along with this, you can expect fine food and indulgent lodgings, local wines, multi-hued beaches and views that stretch beyond its cliff-cradled lagoon out across the sea.

I think that to appreciate Santorini, you want to make sure you visit it the right way. The towns on the caldera get really crowded, but I love the small towns, scenic hikes and unusual wineries away from the monied glitz.

Things to see and do in Santorini

Akrotiri, long-lost ancient city.

A Minoan city long buried under layers of ash, the Bronze Age site of Akrotiri displays a level of sophistication that makes it one of the most remarkable ongoing archaeological excavations in Greece.

The city was rediscovered in 1967 and has only been partially uncovered. But, it’s clear that it was a wealthy place with large houses decorated with detailed frescoes, hot-and-cold-water facilities, and elaborate drainage systems. Stone staircases lead to upper levels in the houses, large storage jars remain intact, and a loom workshop suggests a source of Akrotiri’s wealth.

The Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Fira houses finds from Akrotiri, some of which date back as far as the 17th century BC.

We can arrange for you to tour the site with a private guide.

Fira, whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches

Most of Santorini’s modern towns perch along the caldera edge, looking down over the lagoon below. Fira, the island’s capital, tumbles down the cliffs in a jumble of whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches. It’s also home to the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral, with its vivid mosaics, bell tower and richly painted frescoes.

From Fira, you can also walk out to Skaros Rock, a craggy peninsula with sweeping views from its little church. Or, hike the footpath along the edge of the caldera to the village of Imerovigli, about two hours away.

Hilltop town of Oia

Quieter than Fira (and, we think, more picturesque), Oia is a traditional hilltop town whose blue-domed churches are set against a backdrop of whitewashed houses and azure sea.

Cafes, tavernas, art galleries and craft shops border the streets, and the remains of a Venetian fortress crowns the clifftop. Below the town, down a long series of steps leading past blood-red cliffs, is the tiny port of Ammoudi with its brightly painted fishing boats and many tavernas.

Oia is undeniably handsome and particularly well known for its sunsets. Its reputation means it gets very crowded in the evenings, and you can view the same sunset from many other spots with fewer crowds that the village attracts at sundown.

Santorini’s other villages

The smaller towns and villages in the interior of the island are generally quieter than those on the caldera edge, though they can still get busy in high summer. At other times of the year, they offer a more authentic insight into local life.

Emporio, in Santorini’s southeast, is a tangle of narrow streets lined with traditional houses that surround a medieval fortress which, in turn, encloses a 6th-century church.

Nearby are the lively beaches of Perissa and Perivolos. Sleepy Megalochori, with its strong wine-producing tradition, and Pyrgos, with its Venetian castle and panoramic views, are other good bets to visit outside the main hubs.

Wine and vineyards

Along with its reputation for views, Santorini is one of Greece’s most important wine producers. Grapes have been grown here since ancient times, and it’s most renowned for its fresh, dry white wine. It’s produced in a unique manner, where the vines are trained into a basket-like structure that protects the fruit from harsh winds.

Many of the vines are centuries old, as the volcanic soil makes them immune to the phylloxera parasite that has devastated other wine-growing areas. The island is home to several highly regarded wineries, where you can take a tour or enjoy a tasting and discover more about the small but thriving Santorini wine industry.

Volcanic Santorini

Geothermal activity in and around the Santorini Archipelago reminds you of the islands’ tempestuous past. A walk along the cliff path on the island of Nea Kameni, a short boat ride from Santorini, takes you to smoldering craters, where an intense smell of sulfur fills the air.

You can also take a boat trip around the island of Palea Kameni to visit its hot springs or take a swim in Agios Nikolaos Bay. Here, geothermal currents keep the water the temperature of a hot bath.

Best time to visit Santorini

Santorini is a seasonal destination, with many properties only open from April to October. To get the best of the weather and avoid the summer crowds, we recommend visiting in April, May or October. July and August are peak season, when the island’s roads and villages can get crowded, and temperatures peak with highs of roughly 86°F (30°C).

Start planning your tailor-made trip to Santorini by contacting one of our Greece specialists

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Suggested itineraries featuring Santorini

Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Santorini, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Romantic Italy & Greece

13 days from $15,160pp

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Map of Santorini

Places & hotels on the map, places near santorini.

Paros 48 miles away
Naxos 49 miles away
Milos 63 miles away
Mykonos 73 miles away
The Greek Islands 76 miles away
Cape Sounion 120 miles away
Hydra 128 miles away
Monemvasia 135 miles away
Athens 146 miles away
The Peloponnese 162 miles away
Nafplio 168 miles away
Arachova 214 miles away
Costa Navarino 216 miles away
Delphi 217 miles away
Galaxidi 218 miles away
Olympia 228 miles away

Photos of Santorini

Accommodation choices for Santorini

We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Santorini. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.

Andronis Concept Wellness Resort

Chromata Hotel

Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection Santorini

Belvedere Suites

Santorini Secret Suites & Spa

Ideas for experiencing santorini.

Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Santorini, and which use the best local guides.

Santorini wineries

With a wine-making tradition that stretches back thousands of years, Santorini is known for producing some of Greece’s finest labels. This private, half-day tour takes in two of the island’s wineries and offers an insight into the island’s unusual production methods.

Hike Fira to Oia

Santorini’s volcanic landscape makes for rewarding hiking, with the caldera-edge route between Fire and Oia its most scenic trail. Take in churches, panoramic viewpoints and traditional towns as you hike with a local guide.

Santorini private boat trip

Offering a new perspective on the island and its volcanic origins, this private, half-day catamaran tour around Santorini takes in arresting views of the caldera cliffs, hidden coves for swimming and snorkeling, and a sunset dinner on board.

Santorini – Best Things To Do

Greece › Santorini › Things To Do Updated: May 5, 2024 By Santorini Dave

A Santorini boat tour is an absolute must!

Santorini Things To Do: Tips & Advice One or Two Days in Santorini : Hike along the caldera between Fira and Oia , do a boat tour of the caldera , and have dinner at the Athenian House or Metaxi Mas . Three Days in Santorini : Add a wine tour , food tour , or jet ski tour . Four Days or more in Santorni : Visit ancient Akrotiri and Pyrgos . Lots more walking (the best way to explore Santorini). The best Santorini shore excursions for cruise passengers : Private Wine Tour • Highlights of Santorini Private Tour • Santorini Photography Tour Best Day Trip from Santorini : A day trip to Mykonos, Crete, or other Greek islands is difficult to do in one day. Nearby Thirassia makes for an excellent day trip from Oia. Most important tip : Do at least one tour. Or two or three or four. You might not usually do tours. They might be outside your comfort zone. But they’re awesome, fun, really well done, and a great way to get to see lots of the island (and get to know some locals) in a short amount of time. Santorini Boat Tours , Santorini Wine Tours , Santorini Private Tours – they’re all great. People spend thousands of dollars getting to Greece and then worry about a $200 wine tour. Just do it. You’ll remember it forever. The Best Santorini Tours The best day trips in Santorini are the caldera boat and winery tours. Every tour I’ve taken on Santorini has been great (or very, very good) – and I’ve never had a bad experience. It’s not absolutely necessary to pre-book tours before arriving, but if you’re on a short visit (less than five days), it’s probably a good idea to reserve your tour in advance. From June to September the best tours can be fully booked weeks in advance. The Top Tours in Santorini Small Group Wine Tasting Tour Santorini has some incredible wine (Assyrtiko is my favorite). This is an intimate semi-private tour that visits three great Santorini wineries. There is also a less expensive Santorini Sunset Wine Tour that is almost as good. It will have a few more people but it’s still a small group tour (and since some people enjoy meeting other travelers on a tour, the fact that it’s not private may be a plus). Sunset Catamaran Cruise Every boat tour is a different mix of these popular elements: swimming in the hot springs, visiting Thirassia, hiking the volcano, stopping at Red Beach and White Beach to swim and snorkel, eating lunch or dinner on board, and watching the sunset below Oia. This tour is the simplest (but still awesome) – it’s basically just sailing through the caldera, stopping at a few beaches (outside of the caldera), then the hot springs, with swimming, eating, and sunbathing along the way. It ends by watching the sunset from the boat below the Oia cliffs (the highlight). Bring a change of clothes; the evening gets cold if you’re still in wet swimwear. All boat tours mentioned on this page provide meals onboard and include transportation to and from your hotel. Santorini Day Cruise The most luxurious boat tour with the best food and friendliest, smallest group. This is a caldera boat tour that includes lots of swimming and snorkeling, unlimited drinks, and free hotel pickup and drop-off. It’s similar to the Sunset Cruise but without the sunset and with more swimming and time in the sun. There is also an amazing private catamaran cruise of the caldera (both day and sunset options available) if budget allows. Best of Santorini (6 Hours) The best private tour in Santorini. No boats. This is a sightseeing tour of the island itself with a professional guide. The tour visits three of my favorite places: Akrotiri (the fantastic ruins of the ancient town destroyed by the volcano eruption), Pyrgos (an old town with twisting pathways and churches galore – incredible views, too), and Oia (the single most beautiful village on Santorini). There are also stops at Red and Black beaches, a local winery (Venetsanos), and the picturesque town of Firostefani. Hotel pickup and drop-off make this a super easy way to see the island in one day. Santorini Photography Tour A great tour of Santorini’s best views and shots that’s ideal for all photographers, from beginner to expert. If you’re looking for something really unique and special then this is it. People absolutely love this tour. Santorini Fishing Tour Wonderful tour of the waters around Santorini on a local fishing boat. Fresh seafood lunch or dinner served on board (you’ll eat what you catch and empty from the nets). The daytime tour is best for families and serious fishermen. The sunset tour is best for couples.

The 46 Best Things To Do in Santorini 1. Caldera Hike from Fira to Oia My two boys and our friends pointing at Oia in the distance during our walk along the caldera. This is the single best thing to do on Santorini. The views are incredible. The hike takes between 2 and 5 hours depending on your speed and how many pictures you stop to take along the way. Start in Fira and move north through Firostefani and then Imerovigli (this part of the path feels more like a village sidewalk). From Imerovigli to Oia, it’s a largely rural path with only a few shops or restaurants. Most people will want to wear a sturdy running shoe for the walk. The route isn’t completely marked but it’s fairly intuitive: stay on the path that follows the edge of the caldera and walk north (when in doubt stay to the left/west). Of course, it’s fine to do the walk in the opposite direction but it feels more natural (to me) to walk north to Oia and the island’s tip. And walking into Oia from the hills above is an awesome finish. During July or August I’d highly recommend starting before 8:00 a.m. Though it’s easy and free to do the hike on your own, hiring a guide is a great way to get a dose of history and some insight into the local culture and customs. 2. Sunset, Caldera, and Volcano Boat Tour Do two fantastic activities in one boat tour: walk the volcano and swim in the hot springs. Be sure to get a tour that takes in the sunset too. There are also tour options that visit Thirassia (a small, populated island that forms part of the caldera ring with Santorini) and Red and black beaches. Boats usually depart from Vlychada Marina at the south of the island, or from Ammoudi Bay below Oia, and most tours offer hotel pickup to get you to the boat. All the tour companies are legitimate so buy the tour that suits your needs best as far as timing, interests, and transportation. 3. Santorini Winery Tour Santorini wine is great, the people are super friendly, and the wineries are beautiful. Vineyards here mostly eschew planting their vines un upright rows, opting instead to wrap the grapevines low to the ground in a basket shape to protect the grapes from the extreme sun and wind. A Santorini wine tour is the best way of exploring more than one winery. Most wineries are inland from the caldera, though a few wineries do have caldera views.

Skaros Rock in Imerovigli is an interesting side trip along the Fira-Oia hike .

4. Jet Ski Tour To The Volcano An exhilerating and unique way of seeing the caldera. There are different tours that go different places – all leave from Perivolos on the south of the island. The shortest tour (“South Tour”) visits nearby Red Beach and White Beach and lasts about 90 minutes. The medium-length (“Volcano Tour”, 140 minutes) goes all the way into the caldera and stops for a swim in the hot springs by the volcano. The longest tour (“Extreme Volcano Tour”, 200 minutes) takes the volcano tour and adds Thirassia Island and Ammoudi Bay. The tours that go into the caldera are pretty intense and the waves can be big. It’s a taxing activity but super fun. My son has done the volcano tour when he was 14 and 15 years old (that’s him in the photo) and considers it one of the most fun things we’ve ever done. Staff are friendly, helpful, and very safety conscious. There’s a motorboat with the tour the whole way so if someone needs a break they can switch to the boat and one of the staff will ride the jet ski. I love the boat tours of the caldera but this takes it to another level – the cliffs are just right there! The same company also does parasailing, tubing, and water skiing. 5. Santorini Photography Tour I can not say enough great things about this wonderful tour. It’s an excellent way to see the island from a number of unique spots. It’s also fine if only one in your group is interested in photography and the others only want to enjoy the views. Highly recommended – but book far in advance. 6. Santorini Kayak Tour Wonderfully fun! The Morning Tour and Sunset Tour explore the south coast of Santorini (cool but you don’t get to see the caldera). The Round The Lighthouse Tour goes into the caldera and provides incredible views of the caldera cliffs. There’s also a good SUP and snorkeling tour , but it doesn’t go into the caldera. 7. Ancient Akrotiri See and explore the remains of the ancient Minoan Bronze-Age village that was abandoned before (and buried by) the island’s devastating volcanic eruption in the 16th Century BC. The is the most interesting historical site on Santorini and very well preserved. For a long time, this advanced settlement was believed to have inspired the legend of Atlantis. I highly recommend booking a tour guide in advance to show you around the site and discuss the history of the island, the eruption, and the following destruction. Another option is the excellent private tour of Akrotiri and three Santorini wineries . 8. Walk the Volcano The larger of the two islands in the caldera is called Nea Kameni (new burnt island), and it’s where you’ll find the island’s active volcano. The crater is 130 meters up and takes about 20 minutes to walk to from the boat pier. Sulfur vents are found along the way. The only way to get here is by doing a caldera boat tour or hiring a chartered boat.

Map showing the locations of the best towns and top activities on Santorini, Greece

9. Santorini Fishing Tour Very professional, very fun fishing tour with lots of hands-on action and a huge lunch. The daytime/lunch tour is the most popular option, but there’s also a sunset fishing tour . 10. Visit Ftelos Brewery An elevated craft beer experience like no other. You’ll find lagers and pale ales at this microbrewery, as well as curious brews like hibiscus saison and rosemary gose in limited runs, made from local and seasonal ingredients, sometimes barrel-aged. Awarded the “Most Innovative Brewery,” Ftelos offers tours, tastings, food pairings, cooking classes, and even a home-brewing master class. Art-filled facilities include two beer-themed gourmet restaurants, tapas bars, and beer cocktails served on the bioclimatic rooftop garden. Reservations are strongly recommended. 11. Take the Dogs to the Beach at SAWA Santorini Animal Welfare Association is a shelter and sanctuary for the island’s stray dogs, donkeys and mules rescued from grueling labor, and abandoned farm animals (a newer phenomenon as traditional farms are being converted into profitable vacation rentals). Visitors are always welcome to swing by and take a dog or two for a walk along a desert pathway south to remote Eros Beach for some fun in the waves. Bring your own picnic or pop in at Theros Wave Bar for beachfront refreshments. Volunteers are are also needed for full working days (usually from 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.) to help care for the animals. Tasks vary but including feeding the animals, cleaning the pens, or light maintenance on the property, depending on the season. If you happen to fall in love, all dogs are available for adoption. 12. Explore the Paths, Alleys, and Stairwells of Fira, Firostefani, and Imerovigli This is basically the hike from Fira to Oia but instead of continuing to Oia you can stop in Imerovigli, explore a little, and turn back around. All three towns have beautiful views and are worth a walk-through. You might get a little lost here and there, but that’s half the fun. 13. Hike Skaros Rock Descend the cliff to the path that leads to Skaros Rock, an unmistakable landmark shaped by eruptions, earthquakes, and erosion. Under Venetian rule, Skaros was one the first of Santorini’s five fortified settlements and formerly the island’s capital until the 18th century. You can still see some of the old ruins here today (though it’s barely recognizable as a castle), as well as a small monastery hidden on the far side of the outcrop. Climb to the top of the rock if you’re brave enough. Great views from all points. The path starts just south of Grace Santorini hotel. 14. Swim at Ammoudi Bay One of the best swimming spots on Santorini is down the cliff from Oia and a short hike south of the Ammoudi port. Walk the steps down from Oia (or drive/taxi to Ammoudi Bay), then take the path that leads south past the restaurants in the port – you can’t miss it, there’s only one way to go. It’s a 5-minute walk to Agios Nikolaos Islet (above) that you can swim out to. The deep water around the islet make it a popular spot for jumping from its rocky ledge into the sea. 15. Take a Private Tour of Santorini Explore the hidden paths, alleys, beaches, photo shots, amazing villages, and quiet spots all around the island. All Santorini tours are good, but there’s something a little extra special about doing a private tour if it works with your budget. It’s not cheap. 16. Explore the Paths, Alleys, and Stairwells of Oia Oia has even more hidden pathways than Fira. Be sure to get off the main path and explore the magical views you’ll stumble upon. A good place to start is to find the restaurant Lotza then take the path down the cliff directly to the right of the restaurant. The Venetian castle ruins are hard to miss as you wander around, and they offer fantastic views in almost every direction (no coincidence that the ruins are the most popular sunset viewpoint). 17. Open Air Cinema in Kamari Family-friendly fun – depending on what’s playing, of course. Watch a movie outside as the sun sets and the sky grows dark. The selections are usually popular English-language films. Wine, beer, and simple snacks are available for purchase. Movies start around 9:30pm, but I recommend getting here when the doors open at 8:30 to ensure a seat. Sundays and the first and last day of any movie run are the busiest days. There’s a bus stop directly across the street with buses to and from Fira. In summer the last bus should be after the movie is out but check the schedule to be sure.

18. Ancient Thera Find Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine ruins – and spectacular views – at this ancient island capital on the top of Messa Vouno mountain. You can hike the steep trail up from Kamari or Perissa, drive the narrow switchbacked road to the entrance, or hop on the 10€ shuttle from Kamari below. Expect maximum wind and minimum facilities – there are no bathrooms at the top. 4€ adults, kids free. 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. 19. Tomato Industrial Museum Learn all about the history behind Santorini’s world famous cherry-sized tomatoes in this former tomato paste factory that operated from 1922 until 1981. The Tomato Museum is small, but very well done. Most people are pleasantly surprised at how much fun they have here. 20. Dinner with a View The food is often better when you go to a restaurant without a view. However, you have to have dinner with a view of the caldera at least one night while in Santorini. The Athenian House (pictured above) in Imerovigli is a beautiful restaurant with a caldera and sunset view. (And these are my favorite restaurants on Santorini .) 21. Santorini Helicopter Tour This is pretty close to unforgettable. A wonderful tour above Santorini, the volcano, the caldera, and all the villages perched along the cliff (that’s Oia and Ammoudi Bay above, as seen from the helicopter). If you’re going to Mykonos you can also do a helicopter transfer between Santorini and Mykonos – which is fun, easy, and way faster than the ferry.

22. Visit Thirassia Island Thirassia Island forms the western side of the caldera, and was connected to Santorini before the ancient volcanic eruption that formed the caldera. It’s an inhabited island with some good local tavernas, beaches, hiking trails, the picturesque Church of the Virgin Mary, and the intriguing, abandoned cave village of Agrilia. Although you can certainly visit on your own, it’s best to have a guide to ensure you don’t miss any important sights (you’ll need one if you wan’t to see inside the church pictured above; it’s locked most days). Even without a guide, a day trip here is worth the 1€ boat ride to visit. Boats run usually three times a day from Ammoudi, generally at 8:00, 12:45, and 15:20, though schedules may change seasonally or annually – check with your hotel for the latest information. Plan wisely or you’ll be spending the night on the island. 23. Kamari Beach Good swimming, though it’s a pebble beach, not sandy. Many restaurants, beach clubs, and plenty of nice hotels line the main road facing the sea. The lively, pedestrian-only street along the beach is fun to walk at night when it gets quite busy. 24. Swim in the Hot Springs Jump from the boat into the cold water of the caldera, then swim towards the warm water of the volcanic hot springs. It never gets really hot, but it’s warm enough to never feel the need to get out. The only way to get to the hot springs is by doing a Santorini boat tour . 25. Emporio On the way to Perissa Beach in the south of Santorini, you’ll find this magical, traditional village. In Emporio (pronounced eh boh REE oh) you’ll find a smattering of chapels, a couple of traditional cafes ( kafenion ), and homes stacked on homes spreading out from the ruins of the 15th-century Venetian castle at the heart of the village. There are almost never any tourists here, and it’s a pleasure to get good and lost in the tangle of colorful alleyways. There is car parking and a bus stop at the main entrance, but the village itself is open to pedestrians only. 26. Watch the Sunset in Oia Bring a bottle of wine and hang out on the cliffs of Oia watching the sun set over the sea. The Venetian castle ruins are the most popular viewpoint. It’s always busy, so be prepared for crowds. Forget about finding a taxi back to Fira or Imerovigli, but there are extra buses waiting for the crowds after the sunset, and there’s often no wait for those. Elinikon is the best Oia restaurant with views of the sunset. 27. The Seafood Restaurants Of Ammoudi Bay Walk down the stairs from Oia to Ammoudi Bay to find four restaurants serving incredibly fresh seafood. All of these restaurants are good, but Ammoudi Fish Tavern is my favorite. You can usually get in without a reservation. No need to climb the 200+ stairs back to the top – the restaurants will be happy to call you a taxi when you’ve finished your meal. 28. Museum of Prehistoric Thera On the main street in Fira, the Museum of Prehistoric Thera is worth a 45-minute visit. It’s not huge but it’s interesting, especially if you’ve made a visit to the Akrotiri ruins first. A 5-minute walk away is the Megaro Gyzi Museum near the Catholic church. It’s even smaller, but still but worth a look if you want a more intimate view of Santorini’s history. And seeking it out is a good way to see some of the hidden alleys of Fira that you might otherwise miss. 29. Symposion Music and Mythology Cultural Center Housed in a late 18th-century winery in the traditional village of Megalochori, Symposion immerses its guests in Greek mythology, music, and ancient instruments. Exhibits showcase Greek bagpipes (tsabouna), doubaki (Cycladic drum), rokana (a type of rattle, the lyre, and the lute. Interactive tours, hands-on workshops (build your own instruments), wine-tasting, and musical performances provide a unique educational and entertaining experience in a beautiful setting. 30. Red Beach Just down the road from the Akrotiri ruins , Red Beach is the most spectacular and picturesque of any Santorini beach. From the bus stop or car park it’s about a 15-minute walk to the beach. The trail is sometimes closed due to the risk from falling rock; proceed at your own risk. Many caldera boat tours stop here for a swim on the way to or from the caldera. 31. Akrotiri Lighthouse The lighthouse is the destination, but the draw is the incredible view looking north into the caldera – very different than the views from looking down from Fira or Oia because you can really see the circular nature of the caldera from this vantage point. Also popular for its excellent sunset views. Located on the very southern tip of Santorini , the only way to get there is by car. 32. Santorini Wine Museum The Koutsoyannopoulos Wine Museum, in the same family of winemakers for five generations, sits at the center of Santorini. Its super cool, 300-meter-long wine cave set eight meters below ground displays exhibits of the history and development of Santorinian wine over the last five centuries. Admission to the museum includes four wine tastings from the family’s winery. 33. Art Space Winery A unique and charming mix of contemporary art gallery, history museum, cave architecture, and great wine. Paintings and sculptures are displayed in the centuries-old wine cellars, raki distillery, and large central cave. It’s rarely visited by any tours, so you need to visit on your own. 34. Santorini Scuba Diving There are wonderful dive spots all around the Santorini volcanoes and caldera. Professional tours are offered that cater to all levels. 35. Greek Cooking Class The food in Santorini is amazing. Obviously, it’s easy to enjoy plenty of great food without doing a food tour or cooking class , but the guides are so knowledgeable and the tours so fun it’s really worth doing one. Like any Santorini tour the odds of doing one and then regretting it are almost zero. 36. Perissa & Perivolos Beaches Perissa is the best swimming beach on Santorini and has the nicest sand. (It’s black sand, so it does get hot in the summer.) Good restaurants are spread along the beach front. Tranquilo is the best beach bar on Perissa. Perissa is about a 30-minute drive from Fira and 45 minutes from Oia. Perivolos Beach is the southern part of the same stretch of sand, with some newer luxury hotels and great restaurants (try Seaside or Savvas Popeye ). Other than the change in latitude, though, there’s little to distinguish one beach from the other. 37. Cable Car from Old Port to Fira Walk down the stairs to the Old Port, grab a drink, then take the cable car back up (though you can walk or cable car both ways if you want). From May to October the cable car runs every 20 minutes, 6:30 to 22:00 – a little longer hours in July and August, and a reduced schedule from November until April. It costs 6€ for adults and less for children.

38. Wood Carving Workshop at Xylo Wood Design Learn the basics of wood carving at the workshop and gallery of artist Michael Arvanitis. The 90-minute course includes information on local traditions, an introduction to the tools of the trade, and demonstrations of different techniques, followed by hands-on practice, where students can put their newfound knowledge into practice. Be sure to take time to visit the gallery itself, filled with skillfully crafted, one-of-a-kind pieces. 39. Explore the Santorini Countryside This is one of the advantages of renting a car in Santorini – you can get away from the main towns and explore the beautiful Santorinian countryside. The island is small – you can almost always see the sea – but there’s lots of farmland (especially in the south) and you can’t drive far without stumbling across a winery or two and vineyards with grape vines trained into distinctive basket shapes. As with other of-the-beaten-path attractions, hiring a guide can ensure don’t miss any of the highlights of rural Santorini. 40. Best Dessert You have to try a baklava and ice cream if you’re in Greece. Lotza in Oia serves the best baklava on the island. ( Zotos Cafe in Fira has the best gelato on Santorini.) 41. Best View of Santorini Walk up the meandering lanes of traditional Pyrgos village (15 minutes south of Fira) to the top of the hill where you’ll find a castle, a church, and marvelous views of the entire island. The rooftop bar at Franco’s Cafe is a great place to enjoy the sunset. The 6-Hour Best of Santorini Tour is an easy way to visit the most interesting Santorini villages (Pyrgos, Oia, and others). 42. Best Gyro In Santorini Many of the gyro and souvlaki shops that target tourists make some pretty average food. Not Lucky’s . This is the real thing and just as good as anything you’ll find in Athens or mainland Greece. Lucky’s is on the main street of Fira and a 3-minute walk from the bus station. (Ask anyone and they’ll point you in the right direction.) Pito Gyros in Oia is also good. 43. Greek Easter If you happen to be in Santorini for Greek Easter (the date of which is usually different than western Easter) be prepared for something special. On the night of Good Friday, head to Pyrgos where the whole town is magically lit with candles. Saturday night be prepared for fireworks (Fira is the best spot to see them) when the fast ends at midnight. And on Easter Sunday many Greek restaurants will have a special menu with roasted pork and Greek dishes (be sure to reserve a table in advance). 44. Day Trip or Overnight Trip to Ios The great beaches on Ios and its proximity to Santorini make it the best day trip island from Santorini … but an overnight trip is better. 45. Lioyerma Public Swimming Pool If you’re staying near Oia and your hotel doesn’t have a swimming pool, this is a good public option – but I don’t think it’s worth a trip from Fira or beyond. No fee, just buy a drink or some food and you can swim all day and enjoy the nice view. (It has a sunset view too.) This pool makes a refreshing finish to the Fira to Oia hike . 46. Best Thing To Do On Final Night in Santorini The Greek Wedding Show puts on an unbelievably fun performance about a Greek family wedding. There’s singing, dancing, and a simple storyline. Guests are made to feel part of the wedding party. There are light snacks and lots of wine. Even my 12 and 15 year-old boys thought this was fantastic. Great fun! Santorini Day Trips to Other Islands My recommendation: Don’t do day trips from Santorini to other islands. Santorini has so much to see and do you’re better to focus on staying and enjoying it. If you really want to see other islands then you’re better off traveling there and spending a few nights rather than wasting your time going there and back on a ferry. (Ios is a bit of an exception as its so close.) Besides the islands visible in the caldera (like nearby Thirassia and Nea Kameni), Santorini doesn’t have great day trip options. To visit an island on a day trip you need to get an early morning ferry from Santorini and a late-day ferry returning to Santorini. Since most ferries are based on other islands (or back in Athens) it’s usually mid-day before they arrive in Santorini. And even when there is an early morning ferry there likely won’t be an evening ferry that would provide you with the time necessary to make the journey worthwhile. If you really want to make a day trip to another Greek island your best bet is to wait until you’ve arrived in Santorini. Then visit a travel agency and ask about the ferry schedule to and from Santorini’s neighboring islands. If it seems like the amount of time you’ll get on the island is worth the journey then book the ticket. If not, then don’t. Ferry schedules are always changing and rarely are released more than a few weeks in advance. A day trip requires fairly precise timing to pull off so it’s best to wait to arrange until you’re in Greece and can be certain of the schedule. Ferries on these short routes from Santorini will almost never sell out so don’t worry about finding a spot onboard. If the schedule works for a day trip then you’ll have no problem buying tickets. The most likely candidate for a day trip from Santorini is Ios . It has fantastic beaches and a young and fun party vibe – though the clubbing doesn’t get going until late at night so day-trippers won’t get to partake. With a little luck you could have 6 or 7 hours on the island making the 35-minute boat trip from Santorini worth the effort. Mylopotas Beach (one of the best in Greece) and the Chora (the main town up a steep cliff from the port) are well connected to the harbor by a short bus ride. The ferry from Santorini to Ios is €20 one way. Naxos and Paros are both (just) possible but even with the best ferry connections you’d have little more than 2 or 3 hours to explore the island. Except in rare circumstances a day trip to Mykonos is not possible from Santorini. The journey from Santorini to Mykonos is more than 2 hours and 30 minutes and there are rarely returning boats that make the trip doable in a day. A day trip from Crete to Santorini is possible (from April to October) with the daily ferries from Heraklio. But a trip going from Santorini to Crete does not work with the ferry timetable. Anafi is another island that would seem to allow for a day trip but since ferries run to Santorini in the morning and back to Anafi in the afternoon any visit would require staying a night on Anafi.

About Santorini Dave

Hi Dave! My girlfriends and I are headed to Santorini mid-September. Just wondering about the wineries. Can we just spontaneously drive to ones that interest us, or is it necessary to do a reservation and/or winery tour?

No reservations necessary. There are highway signs all over the island pointing to the nearest winery, so it’s well suited to spontaneity. (Just don’t drink and drive.)

Hi Dave, We will be in Santorini at the end of September. Will the sea be too cold for the jetski caldera tour? Thanks, JP

The weather is usually still very nice through the end of September. No guarantees but you should be fine.

Dave, Your site is really helpful! Thank you! I am coming to Greece with some single girlfriends for a birthday trip. What areas do you suggest we stay in? Everywhere looks amazing but we will only be there for 4 nights. All of the island looks beautiful and wonderful for day trips to explore. We are coming to celebrate our 40th birthdays and I am looking for a great area that is lively, beautiful, and with amazing views and restaurants. But it looks like that is all of santorini from my research. I just do not want to book the honeymoon couple destination of the island for a hotel.

We will definitely be taking a couple of the tours and hike you suggested. I really appreciate your help and for being a great resource for traveling. It is easy to get lost down the internet rabbit hole while researching a trip!

Considering your plans, staying in Fira is probably best. It’s busy, fun, has shopping, nightlife, and lots of restaurants. It’s also the hub for the bus network so the easiest place from which to get around the island. If you want easy access to Fira but would like to sleep somewhere a little quieter then go with Firostefani (a 10-minute walk north of Fira along the caldera path).

Hi Santorini Dave, My boyfriend and I are planning a trip to Greece in early-April, we absolutely love your site and it has been such a help in our planning process! Your reviews and travel guides have been amazing, but we have also found your thoughtful and diligent responses to people’s comments just as valuable. We would love to run our itinerary by you, to see what you think. For some background, we are a couple in our late 20s, we love to explore and be outdoors on vacations, also appreciate great food and wine.

Day 1: Land 4:50PM in Athens from NYC. We plan to catch a 7:30PM flight to Chania, Crete. Do you think this is too quick of a turnaround with going through customs? We both have global entry (if this is helpful). ** We understand we are rushing Crete a bit with only a full day in Chania and Heraklion. Do you have any hotel suggestions that you would consider better locations for seeing as much of the cities as we can? Mid-level is fine, as we usually spend very little time in the hotels on our trips.

Day 2: Will be in Chania for the whole day. Thinking of doing ‘Street Stories of Chania Walking Tour’ per your suggestion, in addition to exploring on our own.

Day 3: Will be in Heraklion for the whole day. We are thinking of doing the ‘Bites & Sites’ Tour you suggested, in addition to exploring on our own.

Day 4: Take the morning ferry from Heraklion to Santorini. Check into Keti Hotel (shout out to your great suggestion). We have roughly 3.5 days in Santorini. Of your suggestions, some of the things we are planning to do, include: Caldera hike Fira to Oia, Volcano boat tour, wine and olive tour. We welcome any other suggestions you may have as well, horseback riding on the beach/tour is another activity that has sparked our interest.

Day 8: Fly from Santorini to Athens. I know you suggest taking the ferry from Santorini to Athens, but in the interest of time we are going to fly. Would you say Plaka is the most central place in terms of being in a good location for site seeing? If so, do you have any hotel suggestions? Similar to our stay in Crete, we will be on-the-go the majority of our time there, so looking for a place with great location rather than the most luxurious hotel.

Thank you so much for the valuable information you have already provided on your site, and an even bigger thank you for taking a look at our itinerary. We have a couple of other friends who have upcoming travel plans and have highly recommended your site to them as well.

Looks like a great itinerary. Yes, a little rushed but still good. Both tours you mention are great. Also, try to get to Knossos and the archaeological museum in Heraklion. And 2 hours, 40 minutes should be enough time to get through immigration and get to your next flight (as long as your first flight is not late arriving).

For centrally located mid-range hotels try Palazzo Duca in Chania, Aquila Atlantis in Heraklion, and Phaedra Hotel in Athens.

First of all thank you for all of the helpful information on Santorini. I have built my itinerary based off of your reviews! So I am flying into Santorini from Thursday to Monday for my honeymoon. There are so many suggestions and great things to see! Can you suggest one activity that we absolutely should not miss?

I would be sure to do the Fira-Oia hike (or at least some part of it: Imerovigli to Oia or Fira) and take a boat tour of the caldera.

Thanks for all your posts about Santorini. They’ve been very helpful. My husband and I are traveling with another couple to Santorini March 12-14, and I have a few concerns. We’ve booked an Airbnb in Oia and plan to do the hike between Oia and Fira likely on the 13th when we have the full day. You highly recommend a guided tour, but given we’ll only have from lunch on on the 12th and departing Santorini in general on the 14th around 5pm, would you still recommend a guided tour or maybe explore Oia or a winery on our own? Since we’re not staying in the hub of Fira, would a rental car be best, as it looks like the buses stop running from Fira around 7pm and taxis are expensive? (We’re arriving by plane). I’m thinking we may have to hop over to Fira for dinner, as the only restaurants I know open in Oia in March are Roka and Candouni. Do you think we need to cancel our Oia place altogether for ease to stay in Fira? I’d love your thoughts! Thank you!

Yes, staying in Fira (for a March visit) would be easier and more convenient but it isn’t a necessity. Both Roka and Candouni are wonderful restaurants so not sure why you would need to go to Fira for dinner. You’d have time to do the walking tour but it is probably a better use of time to fit the hike in on your own schedule.

Hi Dave, I was wondering if you have any other recommendations for a photography tour, Highlights Of Santorini Photo Tour is sold out the dates we are there in September. What do you think of a private tour of Santorini if I can’t book the photography tour? Any thoughts or suggestions would be great!

I think a private tour of Santorini would be great. It’s a fun and easy way to see the highlights of the island in one day. But in answer to your question, I don’t know of another photography tour.

Hi, we want to do the Fira to Oia walk. Where do we park and start the walk? We’re staying in Pyrgos so will need to drive there. Secondly, our two 14-year olds want to rent mountain bikes and ride what look to be numerous trails. I could only find e-bike rental. Which they said is “totally lame” for them. Any ideas on if there are any mountain bike rental shops who could rent and maybe take them out on some trails? Thanks much!

To start the Fira-Oia hike drive from Pyrgos and park your car at this parking lot . Then walk north and take the first main road to your left and get yourself to the Atlantis Hotel (map it or ask anyone for directions). And that’s the start of the hike. You’ll then need to bus back from Oia to Fira. The bus station is a short walk from that parking lot. Santorini Adventures rents mountain bikes.

First thank you for all of your suggestions. We will be coming to Santorini for 3 days in September. Unfortunately, we booked our hotel before reading your site. We will be staying at Hotel Eucalyptus in Messaria. I hope we didn’t make a mistake with that booking, what do you think?

On our list to do while in Santorini: a sunset catamaran cruise that includes Red Beach and the volcano. A trip to Fira and Oia, and we will take your recommendation and definitely eat at Mezzo in Imerovigli. Any suggestions on our itinerary, and perhaps in what order we should visit the places I mentioned? Thank you so much for all of your help.

Hotel Eucalyptus is not centrally located but it’s not terrible either. Several buses pass here on their way to Fira (about 5 minutes by bus). It’s probably too far to walk for most people. Your itinerary sounds great. Order doesn’t really matter.

This is such a great site. THANK YOU! My partner and I are looking for a fun cooking class while we are in Santorini late June, and most research is pointing to Petra Kouzina as being a pretty good choice. We are also undecided if we want to combine wine tour/cooking class or do one or the other. Is wine tour a must do activity?. Thanks in advance for any advice! Tara

I would do both a wine tour and a cooking class but try to do them separately so they’re not rushed. The combo tours try to pack too much in (I think). If you can only do one then do a wine tour.

What are your thoughts on the logistics of visiting the Acropolis on a day from Santorini?

Thanks Julie

You would have to fly (ferries would not get you from Santorini to Athens and back in one day). So, fly from Santorini to Athens (1 hour), taxi or train into central Athens (45 minutes), walk to Acropolis (1 minute or 20 minutes depending on whether walking from taxi or train), tour Acropolis (1 to 2 hours, highly recommend getting a guide), and then the reverse trip to airport and flight to Santorini. (I’m sure you’d wander around the Plaka area before or after the Acropolis and get something to eat.) Is that worth it? It’s a long day for certain, but if it’s your one chance to see the Acropolis then could be worth it.

Dave, We are considering a family trip to Greece in late June or early July. It will be me, my wife, and our three children (Daughters are 15 and 18. Son is 16). We are from New Orleans and have traveled abroad several times. Our big concern is getting around Greece in a week’s time. Is travel on ferries really difficult and time consuming. Would it be enough to perhaps visit Athens and perhaps Santorini only? Are there other stops we should make? Since we are traveling so far, we would really like to get “value” and see alot on the trip. It would be a shame to travel so far, but not have time to really do it right. Your thoughts?

If you have a full week in Greece then try to see more than just Athens and Santorini (Naxos and Milos are good options). But if it’s a week including travel time from the U.S. then stick with Athens and Santorini. Try to arrange your flights so you don’t go through Athens twice (e.g. fly New Orleans to London to Athens, ferry to Naxos/Santorini, fly Santorini to London to New Orleans). Flying to Santorini (from Athens) is a good plan if you’re really tight on time though the high speed ferries aren’t that much longer than a flight when you factor in security and airport waiting time.

Hi Dave, Love your fantastic information! If we are visiting for a day (a cruise… I know, not the best way to see the islands but it’s a start): Corfu Santorini Mykonos

What would you do if we only had eight hours at each???!? We are bringing the kids. But I also want great restaurants with the best food to grab a bite and some wine at each island. So a mix of an activity for a half day followed by a great dining spot before we have to board the ship.

In Corfu, I would spend the day wandering Corfu Town and eat somewhere away from the main square. In Santorini I would walk the Fira-Oia hike. In Mykonos I would spend a few hours in Mykonos Town then walk from Platys Gialos to Paradise Beach. (For Santorini and Mykonos I have other pages where I discuss my favorite restaurants.)

Dear Dave, This is great information and really helpful. Thank you for providing and helping visitors in planning their trips. My friend and I are planning to visit Santorini in first week of April with 4 girls from 3-6 years and planning to book accommodation via airbnb. So, we are debating if need to go with 2 or 3 night stay. After reviewing all the information, I see lots of walking, hiking and water activities (good for summer though).

So, really looking for your suggestions on the following or any other advice. – 2 or 3 nights – Kids activities or any other activities to keep them engaged – Family friendly restaurants

Ramana Edulakanti

In April when the sea isn’t warm enough to swim (for most people though kids can sometimes be an exception), there isn’t a lot to do with kids. I suppose Akrotiri could be interesting for the 6 year olds. Ouzeri in Fira and Lotza in Oia are good restaurants for families. Try to stay in a central place (probably in Oia or Fira) that’s an easy walk to the center so you don’t have to worry about car or bus every time you go out. Assuming you’re able to find a way to be entertained 3 nights is definitely better than 2.

I’m in the beginning stages of planning a seven day trip to Greece in September. I want to visit Athens, Santorini but I’m debating between Mykonos or Crete. Can you please suggest the one you would pick. My group will include a mix of family and friends. We are mostly interested in the history and food experience. How many days would you recommend in each city? What city should we come in and come out of? How would we travel between these cities?

Thanks in advance for your time and feedback!

With your interests in mind, I would go to Crete – especially for the history. Spend time in Heraklion and Chania. Try to do some sort of loop in which you don’t retrace your steps. For example: fly into Athens, fly to Chania, bus to Heraklion, ferry to Santorini, then fly from Santorini out of Greece on your way back home.

Hi Dave… another question! I visited Fira with my elderly dad today, parked on the south side of town, had lunch and tried to go to the cable car station via the steps/pedestrian paths on the west side, but it was too much for him and we had to turn back. Do you know if we can drive over and park close to the cable car station? (Planning on doing the cable car both ways.)

So much great stuff here, signed up on Patreon!

There’s a parking lot directly opposite the McDonald’s ( here ). You should be able to find a spot (don’t be picky, anywhere you can pull in and establish yourself, take it) then walk to the cable car. If that doesn’t work, then leave your dad at the square/seating beside McDonalds, park somewhere you can find a spot then return and grab him before heading to the cable car.

We just became patrons. Thanks!

Trying to decide between Kamari or Perissa for a day at the beach or maybe even an overnight stay. We have 5 days in Imerovigli and might move one night to the beach. Or should we just visit? And which beach is best?

Great site!

Both are nice beach towns. I slightly prefer Kamari as a place to stay (it’s closer to Fira, has more of a town-feel with better restaurants, and the nearby open-air cinema is great). But for a day at the beach I’d go for Perissa (and neighboring Perivolos). Funky beach bars and restaurants are spread along the length of the beach and the sand is nicer here. If it were me I’d keep my 5 days in Imerovigli and make a day trip (or two) to the beach.

I will be heading to Santorini in early-mid October with my husband and another couple. We were looking at different tours and have decided to do a sunset cruise and wine tour. We were wondering if we should definitely book in advance or since it is the off season if we would do better booking there (would there be any cost difference?). Also any thoughts on the Canvas Suites in Oia? Melissa

Even in October tours can sell out. So if you only have a few days you should book in advance. If you’re in Santorini for, say, a week, then you can afford to wait until you arrive. Canvas Suites are smallish but beautiful cave rooms in the heart of Oia. Great views (but no sunset views – for that you’ll have to walk 3 minutes to other side of the castle).

Coming to Santorini in a few weeks- we are staying in Kamari. What is the best way to get to Oia? Do you recommend we start at Fira to do the hike or Oia to Fira? Thanks!

I slightly prefer doing it Fira to Oia but there’s no big difference – it’s the same walk both ways. Since you’ll already be on the bus coming from Kamari, I’d jump straight onto a Fira-Oia bus and start from Oia. Then you’ll avoid catching the Oia-Fira bus later in the day when it can be busy. And you’ll probably be tired at the end of it so 1 bus instead of 2 will be nice.

Hi Dave. My partner and I are visiting Athens March 8-15. We will have a free day on March 15 and have thought about possibly flying to Santorini for the day. We’d like to do a tour to see the highlights of the island, get a good meal and hit a winery or two. What is the weather like at that time of the year? Are many businesses and restaurants open? Or would a day trip be a completely crazy ideal? Thanks in advance for any tips.

Most wineries (and many restaurants) will be open and the views are always wonderful. I’d wait to book flights and take a look at the weather when you’re in Athens. If it looks ok (no big rain storms) then book the day before and go. Would be even better if you could pack a small bag and spend one night – you’d get to see a fair bit more.

I am going to Santorini in mid September. Do I need to pre-book the Santorini 5 hour sunset tour prior to my visit? Also, there are many sunset tours, are they mostly all the same? I will also be doing either the sunset wine tour or the 1/2 day wine tour. Again, do I need to pre-book these or can it wait until I get to Santorini? Stacey

Generally yes, book in advance. September is still a busy time and who wants to waste time (while you’re there) sorting through tour options. Much better to get that out of the way so once you’re there you can enjoy the island not be on your laptop trying to decide which tour is best.

As many have noted here, your blog is fantastic! We are going to Santorini in August and wanted to book a wine tour – between the two wine tours you recommend (half-day tour and sunset wine tour), which would you recommend? Our hotel has a sunset view, so we aren’t concerned about trying to fight the crowds for a good spot.

Which would you recommend?

Thank you! Maggie

Both are great, but go with the half-day tour.

Hi Dave – Your blog is fantastic! We have booked to stay in De Sol Spa Hotel in Fira for 2 nights (23-25 June). I am thinking of booking a Santorini Full Day Trip. Any suggestions? As I am bring my mum who is 80 years old and had a knee replacement! Yin

Do a wine tour. The boat tours can be tricky if you have limited mobility (lots of climbing aboard and up narrow stairs).

We just came back from a wonderful 10-day holiday to Athens, Santorini and Mykonos, and we are missing Greece already, especially Santorini!!! We followed many of Dave’s recommendations and I must thank you for all the excellent recommendations that you have given, especially in terms of food since there are so many choices. We tried Lucky’s, Zotos, Lotza, Mezzo (which is so good that we went back a 2nd time during our 4-night stay in Santorini) etc. Thank you once again for all the great recommendations which made our trip such a memorable one!

One incident did mar our wonderful holidays though. I am not sure if it is appropriate to post here but since many tourists visit your site, I thought it will be good to post to alert them, but if you find it not appropriate, feel free to remove the comment. This is about the donkey ride up from the Old Port to Fira. We came back to the Old Port from a volcano and hot springs tour and thereafter, we walked around the Old Port a little before deciding to make our way back up to Fira. When we went to the donkey station, there were a few men at the station including a younger man. We enquired about the price and was told that it was Euro 6 each. There were 4 of us but my husband didn’t want to take the ride as he doesn’t enjoy animal rides and he wanted the exercise to walk up the 500+ steps anyway, so we told them only 3 of us would be taking. They tried to pull a fast one on us and offered us Euro 25 (which would be more than Euro 6 x 4) for 4. We declined and insisted that only 3 of us wanted to take and paid them Euro 20 which they did not give us any change. They were conversing angrily to one another in Greek all these while and just told us to wait for other customers to come and go up together. About a while, no one came (and no one would anyway since there were no other tours returning back to the port at that time), so we asked them again. They lied to say that they had some customers in the toilet and told us to wait. Sensing that this was going to go nowhere, we told them that we didnt want the ride anymore (and know that we will be taking a risk that they wouldn’t return us the Euro 20 that we paid). They then reluctantly got 3 donkeys and chose a donkey that was super competitive for my daughter and she was so horrified during the ride as the donkey was always trying to over-take from the side nearer to the edge. She was almost on the verge of tears during the ride. During the ride, I knew there was no way the young man (who was the one who took the Euro 20) was going to pay us back the Euro 2. It was not about the Euro 2 per se, but because it was such an unpleasant experience, I felt it was only right to ask for our change when we reached the top. When I asked him for the change, he just brushed it off. The purpose of me sharing this is really not abt the Euro 2 but about the poor service and experience that we received, which I hope through our sharing, other tourists can avoid. If you want the experience of riding a donkey, the donkey ride from Amoundi Bay to Oia is not only cheaper (Euro 5), but when I told the guy that we are scared of donkey ride (especially my daughter after the previous experience) and told him to choose obedient donkeys for us, he really did and this time round, we certainly enjoyed our ride up more.

Thanks for sharing Wee. I am not that big on riding the donkeys and have considered removing it from my list … but some people do enjoy it. Thanks again.

Hi Dave, We are a family of 5 going to Santorini – 4 adults and a 14 year old in late June. Can you recommend a company to hire quad bikes from? Carolyn

You don’t say where you’re staying so just rent from the closest place to your hotel (they’re everywhere and easy to find). No need to book in advance for June. Quad bikes are far and away the most efficient way to end up in the hospital while traveling – so, uhm, good luck.

Your hotel recommendations are incredible, but unfortunately I was a little late to the game when booking and therefore wasn’t able to make any reservations at the places you suggested on your site. I made a reservation at the Afrodete Hotel in Firostefani, and was just curious to see if you had heard anything about it/what your take on it is? I read the reviews thoroughly, but I just wanted to see if you had an opinion about it. Any insider knowledge would be greatly appreciated!(:

Thank you in advance! Jamie

Yes, everything is booking very early this year, but Afrodete is a fine simple hotel. It doesn’t have caldera views (the views you see in the photos look east and are not over the volcano). You’re a short walk to the caldera and views. When you walk into Fira be sure to get to the caldera path first, then turn towards Fira. If you walk along the road you’re really missing out.

Hi Dave! Great site! I’ll be staying in Oia for a few days by myself (single female) – are there any restaurants or bars you could suggest that are good for solo travellers in Oia in June? Hema

Your best bet (maybe only bet) is Mary Kay’s. Get there a little early (say 9pm) and get a seat at the bar. It’s usually a very friendly crowd and solo travelers will fit right in. The two greek brothers (with facial hair) working the bar, look a little intimidating at first but are actually very friendly.

Hi! I will start by saying: your website is very useful, thank you. Is it possible to do the Fira-Oia “hike” with a rented bike? Valérie

From Fira to Imerovigli it’s mainly a pedestrian path – so here you’d have to ride on the road and that doesn’t have any view. From Imerovigli to Oia a very talented mountain biker could ride the path but for any average rider you’d be walking your bike through plenty of spots.

Thanks to your fantastic website, my daughter and her friend have booked a wonderful trip to Greece (1.5 days in Athens, as you recommend!), then 5 days on Naxos to relax and explore, and visit Delos, and finally 3 nights on Santorini at Agali Houses, a fantastic recommendation from your site. So the question is, how to avoid the cruise ship crowds on Santorini? Is is just a question of getting out early, or are there are other tricks to being where the crowds are a bit thinner? Thanks for your help, Santorini Dave! Elizabeth

Do things early (cruise ship crowds typically won’t arrive until after 11am) or later (and they usually leave by 4 or 5pm). Oia is the town that gets most overwhelmed by cruise crowds. If it’s mid-day and you see 2 or more cruise ships anchored out in the caldera then don’t go to Oia – it will be busy.

(Note: I say anchored but cruise ships don’t put down their anchors here – the caldera is too deep. That’s why you’ll see smoke coming from their engines even when they seem to be stationary. They have to keep the motors going to maintain their position.)

We are spending 5 days in Imerovigli and 2 days in Oia. While in Imerovigli we are going to do tours and visit your suggestions in southern Santorini. But while in Oia we want to focus on the best attractions in Oia or nearby. In your opinion, what are the best things to do in Oia?

The best things to do in Oia: -eat at one of the tavernas in Ammoudi Bay. -swim and jump from the ledges at Agios Nikolaos islet (walk down to Ammoudi Bay, turn left, and walk south along the foot path – in 5 minutes you’ll come to the best swimming spot on the island). -take small ferry boat across the caldera to the island of Thirassia, have lunch and walk about, don’t miss last ferry back. -go to Sigalas Winery for a tasting/tour (5 minute drive from Oia, walkable if you’re an active type). -watch sunset from Oia Castle. -late night drinks at Mary Kay’s (popular with locals and Oia’s only true bar).

Traveling to Santorini at the end of May for 7 days. Do you recommend booking tours online or upon arrival? Is there significant cost savings, if you wait until your on the island. (Coming from the states.)

Great blog – appreciate the help!

Best, Frank

It depends. Since you’re going for 7 days (and that gives you flexibility if some tours sellout) and you’re going in May (when it’s not as busy as high season), I think you’ll be fine booking when you get there. That said, if there are some tours you specifically want there’s little harm booking in advance.

We are considering booking one of the boat tours for our upcoming trip to Santorini May 16-21, but we are concerned that the water will be too cold for swimming. What do you think?

Water will be chilly but tolerable for most. You typically swim from the boat to the hot springs which are always warmish. If the suns out (which it should be) you’ll be fine. Boat tours are so much fun. I’d be shocked if you did the tour and said afterwards, “that water was so cold, I wish we hadn’t done that tour.”

Are there any boat tours to Santorini (from Crete) that include the Catamaran Cruise? Aliya Bedejim

There is not enough time to do a catamaran tour while in Santorini given the timing of the ferries (between Crete and Santorini) that all tours to Santorini use.

Hi Dave great photos and information! My husband and I are heading from Australia to the UK for a family birthday end of November. As its my 60th birthday end of December we thought we’d incorporate a holiday into this time and I’ve never been to Greece. I know December isn’t really a good holiday time over there but we both love photography and the quiet and don’t care about shopping. What’s the weather like end of December? Are we likely to get some good days out of 2 weeks. Oia looks like a nice place to be for my 60th birthday… Thanks Annie

As long as you know what to expect (lots of closed shops and quiet restaurants) you’ll enjoy it. Santorini gets busier every year as they’re starting to promote year-round tourism. It’s still quiet but not as dead as it used to be. Some people absolutely love Santorini in the quiet winter months. Here’s an interesting post on visiting Santorini in winter . (It’s a few years old so expect there to be a bit more activity than what is described here.)

We have 1 full day in Fira (arrive Tuesday night by plane, leave Thursday morning to Crete where we’ll spend 2 weeks). We’re not interested in a tour as not sure how early we’ll be moving on Wednesday morning but would like to be busy and see the area. What do you think are the best things to do in Fira for the day? (We won’t have a rental car. We’re coming in late June.)

Thanks, Sauvy

Best Things To Do in Fira: –Hike to Oia on the footpath, or at very least walk to Imerovigli (about 1/3 of the way); bus back. –Lunch at Lucky’s (delicious gyros). –Visit Museum of Prehistoric Thira. –Dinner at Ouzeri (no view), Argo (partial views), or Naoussa (great views). –Sunset views and drinks from Franco’s Bar or Tropical; party at 2 Brothers; dance at Koo Club or Enigma.

My girlfriend and I are headed to Santorini for 11 days in late July / early August, and are interested in booking a fun sunset cruise of the caldera. We’re pretty social and love meeting new people, so we were hoping you could recommend one that has an open bar and is known for having a younger, fun-loving crowd… maybe even music/dancing? Many thanks, Jeff.

The 5-hour catamaran sunset tour is probably the one you want. Lots of fun.

Hi! I’m making my way to Santorini April 24th and have 3 days there. I came across your blog while searching what to do! What a great find and extremely helpful!! As my trip is a solo trip would you say it’s safe enough for solo female travellers? Many thanks! Samina

Keeping in mind that no place is definitively “safe” then yes, I would say Santorini is very safe for solo female travelers.

I will be traveling to Santorini April 7th and I was wondering if there will be any kayaking tours available? Would you recommend renting an ATV for traveling around Santorini? Kevin Foong

Santorini kayaking tours run from May to October (usually) so don’t think they’ll be anything in early April. Many people enjoy the ATVs but I prefer a car.

Hi Dave, My friend and I are going to Santorini April 7-13th… Will places (restaurants, shops, bars, clubs, etc) be open for business? Also, I have been reading a bunch about the weather and what to pack. Any suggestions for that time of year? This blog is awesome! Thanks so much, Elissa

Restaurants and shops will generally be open. There will be a few bars open but not all of them. There won’t be any clubs open.

Hi Dave, My husband and I just booked tickets to Greece for our 12th anniversary. We booked for 9days and would want to split between Athens and Santorini.

From Athens we intend to take the Blue Star Ferry to Santorini to enjoy the sights. Though 8 hours travel is quite a long ride. And based on your replies, It made me decide to spend our nights at Firostetani. Since we don’t prefer to drive, how do we go to our hotel from the port? And are bus stops accessible once we are at Firostetani? Berna

There will be taxis at the ferry port to get you to Firostefani – but they can be snatched up quickly so get off the ferry as quickly as you can. Or take the bus (always lots of room) to Fira. Then switch buses and take the next bus to Oia but get off in Firostefani (about 5 minutes). Or you can arrange with your hotel for a port pickup.

Hi Dave, thanks for all you share. We have a week in Santorini in September and are considering staying at 3 different places to get a feel of different parts of the island. Do you have a recommendation as to the 3 locations to base ourselves over that week, the order to do it in, whether to hire a car from day 1, or only at stage 2, etc.? (e.g. I imagine parking in some areas is a nightmare, so better not to have a car for those areas)

Any recommendations helpful. Regards Deb

Oia and Imerovigli for sure. Then decide between Fira (busy but lots of shops and restaurants) or Firostefani (10 minute uphill walk from Fira). Fira is the hardest place to find parking but even there it’s not impossible, you just need to search, park, and then walk back to the town (usually about 5 minutes). Fira also has the best bus connections with the rest of the island and that makes a car less necessary when staying there.

Hi Dave! Thank you so much for this wonderful sight, you really know your information!

My sisters and I are planning to visit Italy and Greece in the beginning of July. We have 12 days total and really want to see Milan, Rome, and Venice in Italy and Athens and Santorini in Greece. What are your suggestions to accomplishing most of this or what do you think is the best route? We are in our early 20’s and looking for history, relaxation, and gorgeous views. How many days do you believe is reasonable?

Thank you, Heba

Fly Venice to Athens, ferry Athens to Santorini, fly Santorini to Rome. Visit Milan at the beginning or end of this, doesn’t matter. The above itinerary will reduce travel time and you won’t have to retrace your steps.

Dave, We will have 7 days in Greece in and out of Athens June 21-28th. We want to see the main sights in Athens and go to Santorini. Should we go to Crete too or just stay in Santorini? We are from California so we don’t need good beaches but I’m sure kids would love it. They have Mama Mia in their heads. We have 3 kids, 18, 16, and 12, all good travelers. Would love your recommendation! I’m inclined to just stay on one island perhaps Santorini the whole time to be more relaxed and really get to know it if you think there’s enough to do. Do you recommend flying? We usually rent houses or apartments when we travel. What area of Santorini would you recommend? Thanks.

With just a week I’d recommend a full day of sightseeing in Athens and then Santorini for the rest of your trip. There’s more than enough there to keep you busy and entertained. Staying along the caldera (the towns of Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli, or Oia) is best. Not a lot of rentals with views so you’ll probably end up in a hotel (and there are lots of great ones). Flying is quickest but ferry is fun and something to remember for the kids. Blue Star ferry takes longer than the fast ferries but you get to walk about the decks and see the caldera as you arrive in Santorini – once again this makes it more memorable for kids (and adults).

Hi Dave, I am planning a European holiday for my 40th. I land in Athens midday 15/7. I had originally planned Santorini 15/7-18/7 then ferry to Mykonos 18/7-22/7. I need to be in Split for a cruise by 6pm 22/7. Unfortunately there are no reasonable flights Mykonos-Split that day, but there is one Santorini to Split, so thinking I may need to swap my itinerary around and go Mykonos first. Problem is I turn 40 on 20/7. Don’t really want to change locations on my bday and if I go from Mykonos to Santorini the day before will I be able to have the bar hoping party I had originally planned on in Santorini? My husband and I have been to Santorini (and loved it) but never Mykonos. My best friend + husband will be joining us as well. Would love your recommendation as to whether Santorini would be appropriate for big birthday festivities. Many thanks Sara

Santorini will be great for a birthday. Definitely be in Fira. There are 7 or 8 really good places to go out.

Hi Dave, have found your answers really informative. Myself, my wife and my friend are going to Santorini at the beginning of June (Mystique hotel Oia) and wondered if there are any good bars in Oia? Many thanks Hugh McInulty

Marykay’s (also called Hassapiko) is great. Very small but gets busy after 11pm. It’s your only choice in Oia. (Lots more in Fira.)

Hi Dave, My family (husband and teen age daughters 15/17 will be traveling to Greece and the end of June/July. We have about 10 days. 1-2 days in Athens and Santorini is a must for my daughters. Some friends rented a house on Paros(Luxury Retreats) and did day trips to Mykonos and Anti Paros and an all day boat excursions. I like the idea of being on a smaller, less touristy island but 10 days in tough to fit this all in. What would you suggest? How many days on Santorini? Would you suggest making Santorini our home base or elsewhere? We like being active but don’t want to rush around or spend days on ferries. What itinerary would you suggest? Thank you! Beth Handa

If you want to do day trips then Paros is the best islands (easy day trips to both Naxos and Antiparos which should be enough). If you go to Santorini then stay on Santorini – day trips are not easy with ferry schedule and you’d never want to leave anyways.

Thanks so much for the website. It’s extremely helpful. I’m planning our 25th wedding anniversary and have a few questions for you:

1) We’ll likely spend 10 days in Greece. We’re thinking 2 days in Athens, 4 in Mykonos, and 4 in Santorini. Would you suggest another island or skip Athens and extend our stays on the islands? 2) My wife loves to snorkel. Is there good snorkeling on either of the islands? Any specific recommendations?

Thanks for your help – Mike

1 full day in Athens is enough for most people and enables you to see most of the highlights though if you really want to see the National Archaeological Museum (which is not in the Plaka/Acropolis area and is the best museum in Greece) then having 2 days makes it more practicable. Otherwise 4 days in both Mykonos and Santorini is perfect. If you did free up an extra day then Naxos is a good in-between island. Drop Mykonos to 3 days and do 2 days in Naxos. There’s very little good snorkeling in Greece and almost none in Santorini and Mykonos – best to leave the snorkel gear at home.

Hi Dave, My fiancé and I are planning on spending 6 nights (5.5 days) in santorini – split between Oia and Imerovigli. Which activities are more convenient from Imerogvli? From your blog, looks like there’s a lot to do in/around (sunset, Amoudi Bay, hike). What about renting a car and seeing the beaches or going to volcano tour? Is this easier from Imerovigli? Chen

Boat tours of the caldera (which have hotel pickup but mostly depart from the ferry port south of Fira), Akrotiri, the beaches, and exploring the quieter corners of the island are easier from Imerovigli than Oia. But it’s not a huge difference – Oia just adds another 15 minutes of travel to do any of the above. So, yes, I’d try to arrange these to do from Imerovigli rather than Oia but it’s not a deal breaker if they have to be during the Oia-part of your stay. There are also regular small boats from Amoudi to Thirassia island which are a fun outing from Oia.

Hi Dave… This is an amazing information website for the travelers. I should have read it before planning to Greece. I have reached Santorini today without booking ferry to Mykonos and after reading your answers I got to realize there is no ferry in Nov. Now I’m feeling lost and all my plans are cancelled. I’m thinking of extending at Santorini till 4th of Nov. and not sure what to do. Is this a right move? Or by any chance can I reach Mykonos without burning my pocket? Please advise, Yograj

Your only option is to fly via Athens. Search Kayak for prices . (Technically, you can ferry but that’s a two-day trip via Athens.)

Thanks so much for all of this wonderful information! We’re using a ton of is to plan our upcoming trip.

We’re leaving in a couple of weeks and I’m having trouble figuring out how to book the ferry from Santorini to Mykonos (we’d go on November 20th). Is that because the ferry shuts down in the off season? I found one ferry going to Naxos, but couldn’t find anything going from Naxos to Mykonos. We are fine booking a flight, but would much rather take the ferry, for time, cost and experience sake.

You’re correct. There are no ferries between Santorini and Mykonos in November. You’d need to fly or ferry via Athens. In any case, Naxos has more off-season charm than Mykonos so I’d recommend visiting Santorini and Naxos.

Hi, I have come across your site while looking for help and advise. I am due to get Married in Santorini in September and planning on bringing 40 ish guests to the island. Some family members are a little worried about the price as many reviews are advising that Staying in Santorini is very expensive. From research I can see that Oia and Fira can be expensive however Perisssa is showing as a more suitable option for families. Do you have any tips or contacts on where I can possibly look into a villa complex? Where the whole wedding party can stay and share the same pool?

Thank you for your help

I don’t know of any villas that are that big. With 40 guests you could consider renting out an entire hotel. (Most hotels on Santorini are not that big.) And yes, Perissa is cheaper than Fira or Oia.

Hey Dave, Stumbled across your website and there is some detailed information here so thanks for that. Am sure you have been asked this a million times, but we are planning to visit this beautiful island from 25 – 30 December and going by what I read a lot of establishments around Fira and some around Oia are now open for tourists like us? Wanted to know what’s the situation on ground there actually? We are planning to be 2 nights in Fira and 2 nights in Oia as of now. Thanks in advance and if you can even share the link of any of your posts on this topic will be helpful. Cheers, Uttie

Fira will have more open restaurants and hotels than Oia but both will be fine. It gets a little busier every year as Santorini becomes more of a year-round destination but it’s still certainly quiet.

Hi Dave- thank you for your information. You’ve answered many questions about car rentals, but I haven’t read anything about renting at the airport. We are flying in from a 2 night stay in Athens to Santorini and want to rent a car directly from the airport and drive to our hotel Gold Suites in Imerovigli. We are celebrating our 30th anniversary and bringing our 25 and 22 yr old with us. We want to see EVERYTHING in the 4 nights that we are here, so a car seems to be the way. However, saw many horror stories about renting from the town’s rentals, but nothing about the airport rentals. Budget looks like it has a kiosk there at the airport. Thanks Jordan family

Please read my advice about renting a car on Santorini .

This might be a really crazy question but how easy is it to walk around the island, we are going to be in Kamari, could you walk from there to Oia or is that just mad?! We’re keen walkers but I dont know if the paths are ok? We will be there 1st week of October. Thanks

You certainly “could” walk it, but you’re better to bus it from Kamari to Fira and then do the caldera foot path to Oia from there. The walk from Kamari to Fira is not very interesting – but, as I say, certainly doable. A better walk from Kamari is over the mountain that lies between Kamari and Perissa, and where the ruins of ancient Thira are located. Great views from the top of the mountain to all of Santorini.

Hi Dave. Your blog has been informational. I’d like to know the best time to visit Greece. Me and my husband are planning a trip to Greece this December. Is it the best time?

Many Thanks, Precilla Bobby

It’s a great time to save money and experience local life. It’s not great if you want warm weather. The best months for a beach holiday are early June to late September. If you’re primarily focused on history, sightseeing, and exploring then you can included the months of April, May, October, and early November. Late November through March are cool and grey on the islands and along the coastal regions, cold and even snowy inland. Athens is interesting year-round and Crete is the best island for a winter visit.

Hi Dave, thanks for sharing your site and expert suggestions!

We are planning a team building trip of 11 of us this month for 2 nights. We are staying between Fira and Imerovigli. We will do a sunset cruise on our final night to see some of the sights by sea one evening, and likely will then go out and about in Fira that evening as we see you’ve listed some fun bars.

But we are torn for dinner the other evening and also are curious of your suggestion for getting around the island. For instance, we see that Oia is about 20 minutes from car from where we stay. Any restaurants that come to mind that are suitable for groups of our size in Oia, or would you recommend we plan to explore Oia during the day and see another nearby town for dinner? And, for us in getting back / forth, would you suggest hiring taxis for pick up and drop off, or rely on the buses?

Lastly, we are trying to plan a group challenge or team competition of sorts. We have a running list of a treasure or scavenger hunt going, but we likely would need to keep this to a certain part of the island for ease of getting around. Do you have any suggestions for something like this?

Thanks in advance!

Buses are great for getting around Santorini and will likely work best for a group of 11. But taxis are easy to find in Oia (as long as it’s not right after sunset) if you change your mind. Karma is a great restaurant in Oia that should easily accommodate 11 people. Not sure on the scavenger hunt (so many variables) but I would definitely include the hike from Fira to Oia as one of your activities – it’s perfectly suited for a group and really amazing too.

Hi! Are you able to get from these locations to Fira? I know that sounds like a silly question but the KTEL only shows Fira as the starting locations and all these places as destinations.

Tabitha Larkan

Al bus routes begin and end at Fira. So there’s a bus north to Oia, a bus to Kamari, a bus to Perissa, a bus to Akrotiri. And all return on the same route back to Fira. So, for example, if you’re going from Oia to Akrotiri you have to take the bus to Fira, switch buses, then continue to Akrotiri. Then the same thing for the return.

Hey Dave! This site is a real lifesaver! My family and a few friends (Group of 6 in total) are stopping at Santorini as part of a cruise. I know that’s not the best way to fully see Santorini so I was hoping you’d give me your opinion on how to make the most out of it.

Ship arrives 7:00 am and departs 5:00 pm. So the options are: 1) Going from Fira to Oia, to save time it would be better to take your advice and take the bus half way, but maybe cable car would be more fun? In that case we’d stop by the places you’ve mentioned and try the Gyros, baklava and gelato. 2) Exploring Pygros and checking out the castle and church you’ve mentioned. 3) Hiking the volcano. The first two would be on top of my list but I don’t know if it’s possible to do both in the little time we have? So if not, which would you choose? Also, the trip is around the end of August so I don’t know how crowded it’ll be and how busy transportation (whether bus or cable car) would be. What would you recommend we do? How long do you think it will take? And what combination of hiking and transportation do you think would help us have the most fun in the limited time we have. I thought I’d ask for your- apparent- expert help because I’m afraid of over cramming stuff and ending up not enjoying it.

Sorry my thoughts are so disorganised, and thank you so much for your help!

I would do the walk from Fira to Oia. You’ll take the cable car up from the cruise port (it’s either that or walk, there’s no bus for cruise passengers). Then just start walking north. Assuming you just ate breakfast and get up to Fira about 8 or 9am, you’ll make it to Oia in time for lunch. (Just make sure you have water for your walk.) If you’re really motivated you could jump in a taxi and go to Pyrgos – you should have enough time to get there and back to the cable car in time (there can be a very long lineup to get on the cable car in the afternoon).

Wonderful tips and ideas on Greece! My husband and I will be arriving in Santorini in a few weeks for our honeymoon and wanted some advice for day trips to different islands. We will be in Santorini for 9 nights and want to explore as much as possible. We do not want to spend a lot of time traveling (on the ferry), what island would you say is a must see while we are there? I am open to a day trip or even spending the night on a different island.

Thank you!!

Andreana Tassopoulos

Day trips are difficult to do from Santorini as ferry schedules usually don’t lend themselves to an early morning departure from Santorini and a later return. Much better to do an overnight trip to one or more islands. Ios is the closest and a beautiful island with incredible beaches. Naxos is a little farther, also has great beaches but more cultural and historical sights as well. Folegandros is another nearby island with great food and wonderful walks/hikes. These would be my top picks for an overnight trip from Santorini.

First & Foremost, Thank you for sharing your expertise & insight. It has been very helpful in my planning. I’m heading to Greece October 20th-28th with my best friend to celebrate her 30th Birthday. She lives in Scottsdale AZ and I’m in Los Angeles so this is a pretty big trip for us. We’re doing Paris days before and Italy following our week in Greece.

We’ll arrive in Mykonos (From Paris) around 7am Saturday Morning, hypothetically staying in Mykonos 3 days Sat-Mon, Santorini for 3 days, and 1 full day in Athens as that’s where we’ll be flying out of when we leave for Rome. I’ve travelled a lot, studied abroad, did the back packing through Europe in College etc, so I’m pretty independent and have gotten good at routing vacations for my friends and I HOWEVER I have some anxiety about this trip and so many questions and decisions to make. Another concern was the weather. I’d probably sit in the hotel room and cry if it rained on my vacation parade lol.

So the main question is do we do Mykonos or Santorini longer, should we take a ferry instead of a flight from Mykonos to Santorini for the experience? And is there one that doesn’t take 6-8 hours taking up a full day? I’ve searched extensively for the best and most conveniently located hotels throughout the islands (with price in consideration). We’re not honeymooning, we’re young, and both single so this isn’t a vacation to stay in the hotel most of the time. We want to explore hidden gems, deep sea dive, hang out at trendy bars, and go dancing at night (which Is why I initially booked Mykonos longer). Also am I cheating the experience for not exploring Crete or Rhodes or any other tourist-neglected Island…. Do we REALLY need to rent a car? Can we rent an ATV in Mykonos & call it a day?

Sorry for rambling, really looking forward to this trip but the planning, again, has been overwhelming.

If you have more time then yes, definitely add another day or two to Santorini (3 is plenty for Mykonos) and add Crete to your itinerary. Naxos or Paros are easier destinations (than Rhodes) to get to from Mykonos and Santorini so do one of those instead. But if you are truly limited to a week then your current plan is perfect. The ferry from Mykonos to Santorini takes less than two hours so no need to fly.

Hi Dave – This is a very helpful site, thanks for your efforts to help other travelers. As we prepare for our 3rd trip to Greece, my wife and I are struggling to narrow down our destinations. Some are required, due to family commitments. We have family in Athens, Nafpaktos and Mesolongi. Here is some background –

First trip – 1995 – Honeymoon. 4 weeks in Greece, rented a car and saw alot of the country. Also spent 1 week in Corfu and 1 week in Rome. Spent multiple days in Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, and Paros. Got a great feel for all of these islands. 4 or 5 days in Athens, 2 days in Meteora.

Second trip – 2009 – With two daughters, ages 10 and 8 at the time. Three weeks total – Athens 4 days – Acropolis and museum, 5 day cruise to Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, Crete (Knossos), and Turkey (Ephesus). All of these stops were one day port calls and way too quick to see much of the island. Then rented a car and traveled to Nafpaktos and Mesolongi. Spent a few days with family. Then went to Corfu for 5 days, took the car on the ferry, so we saw most of the island. Came back to mainland and drove to Ioanina, spent 1 night. Drove to Meteora, spent 3 days. Then drove to Mt. Olympus. Spent 2 nights in Litochoro – girls toured the town while I climbed to the summit of Mt. Olympus (Mytikas peak). We saw alot of the country, but the 8 year old, who is now 15, does not remember alot of it.

Third trip – this summer. Girls will be 18 and 15. We only have two weeks. Actually, 12 days in Greece minus travel time. I have not been to Delphi or Olympia. I would love to go back to Meteora (too far for this trip). We have some ideas, but I was looking for advice to get between locations. Fly or ferry, tickets have not been purchased yet. Rent a car or take a bus? Is this plan doable in your honest opinion? Or is too much for 12 days? Open to suggestions…….Thanks so much! Sam

Day 1 – Arrive in Athens at 9:15am. See family Day 2 – Acropolis, Plaka and other sites in Athens Day 3 – Fly to Santorini on 7:20 am flight, spend day in Santorini Day 4 – Spend morning in Santorini, afternoon or evening ferry to Mykonos Day 5 – Mykonos Day 6 – Morning flight or ferry to Athens, then drive or take bus to Nafpaktos Day 7 – Nafpaktos w/ family. Half day trip to Delphi (not sure if it is worth the trip?) Day 8 – Travel to Mesolongi. See family Day 9 – Morning, travel to Olympia then go to Kyllini to catch ferry to Zakynthos Day 10 – Zakynthos Day 11 – Zakynthos, catch evening flight to Athens or early morning flight on day 12 to catch flight to the states. Day 12 – Leave Athens at 11:30 am

Sam Costanzo

The first observation is that you are packing too much into your (active) 12 days. Your plan is doable, but may not be enjoyable as you will spend a lot of time travelling and potentially reducing your enjoyment. On the assumption that you want to see the main places: Athens (family), Santorini and Mykonos (sightseeing), Nafpaktos (family), Mesolongi (family), Olympia (sightseeing) and Zakynthos (sightseeing?) here are some thoughts.

The route you designate is a complex and slow one and will inevitably chew up your precious time. For example getting from Athens to Nafpaktos by bus is nominally a short(ish) run (218 km or 2.45 hours), but by the time you get to the bus station from your location in Athens and depending on when the Athens Nafpaktos bus runs (they probably won’t be hourly), you will consume a minimum of half a day. Local buses will connect Nafpaktos with Mesolongi which is not too far (45 km or 50 minutes). While Delphi is definitely worth it … you will need a full day to get there and back from Nafpaktos. Already running out of time!

Mesolongi to Olympia will inevitably involve two buses (Mesolongi to Patra and Patra to Olympia) and then you want to get to Kyllini – all in one day?! And have you worked out when the Kyllini-Zakynthos ferries run? Zakynthos is a big island and if you want to do it any justice – like visiting shipwreck beach – the time you have allocated makes it very tight.

Going back to to the beginning of your itinerary, Santorini and Mykonos are quite doable in the timeframe, though you have not mentioned the dates. If it is high or shoulder season and you have not booked air tickets yet, you may be disappointed. You can usually squeeze on to a ferry, but air tickets go fast. The time you have allocated for both islands is not a lot, but you will get a meze-style taste of two rather extraordinary destinations.

For your mainland leg you are advised to hire a car and you would be better served if you forego Zakynthos. With a hire car you can maximise time and movement to your daily needs AND easily get to Nafpaktos, Mesolongi and Olympia and even Delphi. In fact you would be better advised to drive to Delphi from Athens (it will take you about 2.5 hours allowing for the time to get out of Athens). You could visit Delphi for 2-3 hours then take the lovely coastal run along the north coast of the Gulf of Corinth and be in Nafpaktos for dinner and meet the family.

Make an afternoon start for Mesolongi the next day and do dinner and family. Stay an extra day if need be, or the family insists. When ready, drive to Ancient Olympia (165 km or 2 hours 15 minutes) and perhaps spend the night there (it’s a very pleasant little village). See the wonderful ancient site at your leisure and choose the time of your return leg (by car) to Athens along the southern Gulf of Corinth Highway, according to your US departure plans.

If you hire a car in Athens, it will be a lot cheaper to drop it off where you pick it up from rather than try to drop it off somewhere else. Your car hire company may not even give you that option. If, by omitting Zakynthos you free up an extra day, then on your drive back to Athens try to take in either Mycenae or Epidaurus, if you are keen to see more ancient sites.

Your trip is adventurous, but more sensible if you modify it as suggested.

Fab site! We’ve just booked a week in Perissa at the Arapiou apartments for 19th July. Our sons are aged 10 and 7 so we want to balance sightseeing with keeping them entertained. Thinking the sunset in Oia might be a bit much for the boys with the crowds and we’re wondering if Fira might be better. Although we’ll drive into Oia at some point, probably an early morning. Thoughts welcome!

Gemma Davies

I think the crowds would be fine. It’s a fun festive crowd and pretty easy going. The bigger problem is getting back to Perissa from Oia after sunset. It’s not a long ways but if you don’t know your way around it can feel like a long drive on these rural-like roads.

Hi Dave and readers, a little note regarding footware and the Imero-Oia hike. Today we did it; it took just under 3.5 hours (early 50’s couple in fine health) including many photo stops and worth every moment, the views were tremendous. We wore pumps and light trainers but have promised ourselves to pack walking shoes next time. Trainers should be the absolute minimum; flip flops are bonkers in our opinion!!

I agree. Good footwear makes it more enjoyable, for sure.

We just did that hike today too. Wore trail running shoes and light hikers, which made it easy. Little tip, tighten up those laces, especially in the front of your shoes when you’re going down hill to avoid that painful toe bump. You can loosen them back up when the trail flattens out, or starts uphill if you want to ease them off again. I agree with Dave, though. Most of the trail is paved, aside from the monolith detour near Fira Stefanis (optional, but definitely recommend it) and a lot of cobble near Oia, so flip flops would work. I hiked Cinca Terre in flip flops and that was definitely more tricky. However, if you have better shoes, wear them. Lots of amazing panoramic views.

Hi Dave, I’ll be visiting Greece in a few weeks (Athens, Thessaloniki, Santorini, Naxos) and I’ve been trying to find pottery studios to visit. The problem is that every google search comes up with Ancient Greek Pottery, and I’m looking for (and hoping to find) modern potters that are actually working and producing right now. Any suggestions? Thanks! Andy

Unsurprisingly for a country with a rich tradition in pottery from Classical times, Greece has a thriving pottery industry that you can tap into if you search appropriately. Try re-wording your search string to “pottery workshops in Greece” or “traditional pottery lessons in Greece” and you will have much more success. Here a few links in English to get you started: 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 .

Alternately and additionally you can find many more by entering your search terms in Greek. Of course if you don’t speak or write Greek this can get tricky so here are a few cheat phrases for you to try. Copy and paste into Google the Greek phrases.

Pottery in Greek is αγγειοπλαστική. It also means angioplasty (the medical term, so you will get mixed results). Try also κεραμικά. Pottery lessons is μαθήματα αγγειοπλαστικής.

Here are some results from searching on the Greek terms: PotteryMuseum.gr . This places offers lessons in theory and practice that run once a week from 18:00 to 21:00 and combines excursions and other activities. The cost is €80. The site is in Greek so try e-mailing them in English to [email protected] and see if they can accommodate you in English.

Try this one also and scroll to the bottom to swap language to English. They have two hour sessions on Wednesday and Thursday from 17:00 to 19:00 for €50 a month.

Finally, here they run both adults and children’s pottery lessons. The site once more is only in Greek but you can see their contact details on the first page. Try dropping an email to either [email protected] or [email protected] .

There are plenty more out there, but you need a link to the network and you can ask around the various schools once you make contact. Best of luck.

This is so incredibly helpful! Thank you so so much, Dave!!!

Hey Dave, I can’t walk very well and when we want to hire a few days an automatic car in May, is it necessary to hire it at home?

You should be fine renting it after you arrive. If you ask the hotel to arrange they’ll even deliver it right to your hotel.

Hey Dave –

I will be in Santorini during 2nd week of May with my wife and 3.5 yrs old son. Though i wish to drive around, but I do not have IDP and inquiring about it in India made me realize that i am now late to get one. I have a valid Driving License. Would I be able to rent a car in Santorini?

Thanks, Tushar

Technically you are supposed to have an international drivers license if you come from outside the EU and rent a car in Greece. On most of the islands this is relaxed and someone with a Canadian, American, or Australian drivers license will have no problem renting a car. Now, do these informal rules apply for an Indian drivers license? – probably, but not for sure. I think you’ll be fine. If one company doesn’t rent to you just walk down the street and ask the next rental company. Pretty sure you’ll find something.

Thanks for your website with lots of good info.

Wonder if the public bus will be running on Easter Sunday? I am hoping to catch the bus from Fira to Oia on that Sunday.

Thanks. Peggy

Yes, buses will be running on Easter.

Thank you for providing great information about santorini. I plan to visit Santorini around end of July. I read that we have to booked at least 3 months in advance. The thing is I’m flying on standby tickets, so there’s no way that I can do that. Do you suggest that i still go ahead with my plan or not? I have 2 kids, 9 and 5. Do you think it will be too crowded to visit around that time with kids? Thank you, Julie

I would not arrive on Santorini at the end of July without a pre-booked hotel room. If you were a backpacker who could take pretty much any size room, then OK. But with two kids, I wouldn’t risk it. That said, you say you’re on stand-by tickets – I’m assuming these are to Athens. So, if you arrived in Athens and then attempted to book hotels for Santorini (say, 2 or 3 days out) I think you’d be able to find something. Nothing fabulous with a view but something.

Thank you for your site and all the incite you provide on beautiful Santorini! I am really enjoying your site and learning so much! My hubby to be and I are going on our honeymoon in beginning of September for a week. We would like to book a car rental but after reading some many reviews on our people get scammed we are very hesitate. Can you please recommend a good trust worthy company to meet us at the port? Thank you so much! Melanie Joaquim

I’ve rented with Spiridakos and they’re fine. I wouldn’t go so far as to say they’re “trust worthy.” In fact, you should probably go into the process assuming that they’re not trust worthy and double check everything on the forms you sign. Get the extra insurance they offer and bargain with them (try to knock off 10% or 20% from the first price they offer – maybe in the form of including the extra insurance at no cost). Take pictures of the car (interior and exterior) before you drive away with it.

Thank you for getting back to me Dave! Much appreciate your tips. I will let you know how it all goes.

Hi Dave. So glad I found your site before our trip to Santorini at the end of this month (March). Our plan arrives at the airport on Santorini on March 23 at 7:15pm and our flight takes off from the airport in Santorini at 8:20am on March 26th. I’ve been searching for a bus schedule and saw the KTEL schedule but cannot make heads or tails of it. We are staying in Oia. Does the bus run at those times between Oia and the airport? Or should we take a taxi? How much should a taxi cost at those times of day? Do we need to get to the airport 2 hours in advance of our flight out?

A lot of your recommendations revolve around swimming, which I absolutely love to do, but I am guessing it will be too cold at the end of March. Would the hot springs be bearable? Hope I haven’t overloaded you with questions. So excited about our trip!! Sincerely, Sally

The bus will be running for your arrival but there are no direct buses from the airport to Oia. You’d need to take a bus to Fira then switch to the Oia-bound bus. The whole trip (including waiting at the airport for the bus) could easily take 1.5 hours. I’d take a taxi. There should be taxis waiting there when you arrive. Taxi from the airport to Oia should cost €25 to €30. And get to the airport 1 to 1.5 hours in advance. The water will be too cold to swim and hot springs are not that hot – more warmish springs. Not sure if there will be tours going to the volcano yet and even if there are you have to jump in the sea first and then swim towards the hot springs about 100m from the boat.

Hi Dave , Love your site it’s amazingly perfect. We are a group of 150 people coming to Santorini on a cruise in May and the time given at Santorini is from 4.30pm to 9.30pm. But I assume the time to get in and out of cruise we will be left with 3 hours. I Wanted to get an idea on what shall we do. As the shore excursions by the cruise are expensive. 1. Is it possible for our group to take the cable car up and come back to the port in 3 hours time? 2. What are the things to do around the port? Please suggest what we should do? Thanks Regards, Bhakti

It’s hard to see much of Santorini when you visit as part of a cruise. The lines to go up and down on the cable car will likely be huge and you’ll be visiting when everyone else from the ships are coming ashore. If you could walk down on your way back to the ship that would save you some time. There is little to see at the port so getting up to Fira is necessary to experience Santorini. With such limited time I would simply spend it walking north (towards Imerovigli) along the caldera path then turn around and walk back when you’ve had enough or run out of time.

Hopefully you’ll get to return to Santorini and stay on the island for a few nights. It’s the only way to really see the island.

Hi Dave we are visiting Santorini in June and wound like to get a ferry to Rethymon Crete as it’s the nearest port to where we are staying in Crete.The only problem is Seajets are saying there is no ferry to Rethymon only to Heraklion? I have read your website and you said there are ferries to Rethymnon, is the service discontinued you that are in the know? Anne Farrell

Some years there is a ferry between Rethymnon and Santorini but that does not appear to be running for this year. Could change but that’s how it currently stands.

Dave –

I have really enjoyed all of the information here! My husband and I are planning a 25th Wedding Anniversary trip in April and have been looking at Absolute Bliss as our hotel. How long would you suggest a couple would need to stay on Santorini to really capture the essence of the island? I have been considering another island but not sure yet.

Also, do you suggest the rental of a 4-wheeler to get around the island?

Thanks so much for any information you share!

2 nights minimum but 3 to 5 nights is best to really explore the island. Some people like 4-wheelers but I prefer a car. The ATVs are fine for short distances but taking it up to Oia then down to the south is a long windy trip in my opinion.

Wow Dave! Even your answers to others’ questions are helpful! Anyway, our family of 5 will be coming the first week of August and staying at the Katikes in Oia for 4 nights. We love to explore so planning on renting a car and getting in as much as possible. Should we rent at the airport and drive ourselves to the hotel or rent from the hotel? Also, do most locals on the island speak English (i.e if we get lost, can people help us)? Lastly, there are usually cars available to accommodate 5? Thanks so much for providing this wonderful site!

Christine Tran

Getting from the airport to Oia is easy in daylight but I wouldn’t want to do if you’re arriving after dusk. Katikies does not have parking and it will be tricky around the hotel. (You’ll always be able to find something but it can take some effort.) I suppose I’m almost talking myself into thinking it’s better to just take a taxi when you first arrive, then get a rental car the next day – it will be delivered right to the hotel and is super easy. You should be able to find a car for 5 without a problem but it being August I would probably arrange in advance. Definitely arrange in advance if you need a vehicle for 5 and it must be automatic (most cars are manual). Yes, most people speak english and getting directions is always easy. The island is small enough that you can usually “see” where you want to go (sort of) and then take the most obvious road in that direction. Obviously this isn’t full proof but it will generally get you to where you want to be as long as you aren’t on a tight schedule.

Hi Dave, We are going to Santorini in August and staying in Oia. Most sites I visit talk about the hike going TO Oia from Fira. Are the views as wonderful going in reverse, Oia to Fira, or do you recommend taking the bus to Fira and hiking to Oia?

Thanks! Kim

The direction doesn’t matter. Views are great both ways.

Quick question, and maybe stupid, but can we walk from Oia to Fira? Or is the view the best going the opposite direction. I ask because we are staying in Oia but very much still want to do the hike.

Jessica Mickles

Yes, walk is great in either direction.

Hi Dave I love your site! It’s been so helpful in planning my trip to Fira! I was hoping you could give me advice on taking the bus around the island. I’ve tried looking for maps and schedules of the public bus, but I can’t seem to find them anywhere (at least not in English!) Would you recommend travelling around with a private bus company and if so, which one? Thank you so much!

There is only one public bus schedule (KTEL). Fira is the hub of all bus routes. The main routes from Fira are north to Imerovigli and Oia. South to Akrotiri. Southeast to Perissa and Perivolos. Southeast to Kamari. And east to Monolithos and the airport. There are a few other less frequent routes too. Bus tickets cost between €1.60 and €2.20

The schedule to the ferry port changes often and is based on the arrival and departure times of the ferries.

HI Dave – Great site you have here! We are going to Santorini for my wife’s birthday and she really would like to see Shipwreck beach on Zakynthos island. How can we access that beach from Santorini? Is a day trip possible or is it too far? We are flying in on an overnight flight from NY and staying 2 nights in Athens & 5 nights in Santorini.

Thanks! Eugene

Shipwreck Beach is on the opposite side of Greece from Santorini. So you’d have 2 flights there and 2 flights back. Sorry, not doable.

Hello Dave and Thank you very much for your comprehensive guidance while for Santorini. We are going for Easter this year and would like to know if renting a private villa will be better then if we are to stay in a hotel and what area will be best for the great views, maybe you know some good sits to get in touch with private landlords for 10 days stay for 4 young children and 4 Adults, for easy reach of the sea side and things to do with kids. Thank you very much, Maria Morris

There are very few villas that have locations as good as the best hotels. I prefer staying at a hotel, getting pampered, and having the fantastic views to being out in the countryside where most of the villas are located (not all, but most). In any case, you have to choose between great view and easy-reach of the seaside as you can’t have both.

Hey Dave, we’re in Santorini for a lovely 9 days next July. We’re looking to split it 4 in Oia (looking at Gabbiano Apartments??) and then 4 on the beach with a pool. Where would you recommend and on which beach? As others have said your site is amazing. Cheers, Russ.

Gabbiano is a great little place in the quiet section of Oia. Wonderful views and a small market just up the lane. It does require a bit of walk (and a portion of that is on the road) into central Oia but it’s a very good value for what you get. Kamari and Persia are the 2 best beach towns. I slightly prefer the vibe in Perissa (fewer package tourists) and the sand is nicer but favor Kamari as it’s closer to the caldera towns than Perissa. (Since, you’ll already be spending 4 night in Oia perhaps that distinction is not as important.) In Kamari, Kastelli Resort is my favorite hotel. Two other pluses about Kamari are the open air cinema and the proximity to Metaxi Mas (one of the very best restaurants on Santorini and a short drive from Kamari).

Hi There, My and husband and me a re much interested in hiking, but we had a 2 year old baby, just wondering would the road be reliable to take baby on a buggy … or is there any alternative way to do this hike? … Could you please let us know. Thanks, Keerthi.

It’s a pretty good path but no, you can’t take a stroller on it.

Can you recommend a helicopter tour? I have only seen one company offering this: “Santorini Day Tours”. They charge quite a lot, so do you know of other ways to see Santorini by air? Morten

Santorini Day Tours is the main/biggest/most consistent company that does helicopter tours on Santorini. There is ABI and Interjet as well but all 3 have about the same rates: €400 per 10 minutes and up to 5 passengers. Not cheap!

We are travelling from Australia (2 Adults, 2 Kids – age 15 and 12) and are wanting to stay in Oia (we are there August 6-August12). Do you have any recommendations for accommodation that has Caldera views and use of a pool. We would appreciate a kitchenette for basic breakfasts but want to experience some great traditional Greek food too. We visited in years ago on a cruise ship and simply had to come back! Looking forward to any suggestions you may have.

Kind regards,

Lisa Durran.

Two hotels with rooms that allow kids your age and have caldera view and pool are the Family Room at Armeni Village (very small pool, great caldera view but no sunset view) and the Junior Suite at Esperas (pool is larger, great sunset views but not full caldera view).

Hi Dave! Thanks for all of your help! I am going to both Mykonos and to Santorini and would like to charter a boat for a day. Which island do you think would be a better place (prettiest, most unique views/destinations/experiences) to charter a boat? Thanks again, you are awesome!!

Santorini, for sure. That’s a phenomenal setting to charter a boat.

2 Questions: 1) Are the crowds or noise an issue at all in Fira for mid-April? 2) Does the Syrian refugee issue impact Santorini or Crete?

And your site is phenomenal!

1) Fira is quiet in April and noise will not be a problem at all. 2) The Greek islands that have lots of Syrian refugees are the ones close to Turkey – Kos, Rhodes, and Lesvos. Crete has had some boats arrive but much fewer. Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, and Paros have had zero refugee boats arrive (it’s not close to Turkey and not on the direct route to Western Europe).

Great website, super helpful!

Trying to plan a 2 week trip to Greece. Thinking 2 days in Athens, 6 days in Santorini, and 4 days in Naxos. Do you think 6 days in Santorini is too many? Should we consider adding a 4th place?

Thanks, Shreyas

I would probably add another island for the sake of diversity but I wouldn’t do because 6 days is too much on Santorini. It’s easy to spend 2 weeks on the island and not feel like you’ve had enough.

Hi Dave . We are staying in Santorini princess in April, can you recommend restaurants and bars nearby also if you can suggest the mode of transport to see around and is Santorini Princess good enough? Or should we change. Utsah

There is not much nearby to the Santorini Princess. Tasos Taverna is out on the main road from Imerovigli to Oia and is pretty good. There are many great restaurants in Imerovigli (about a 15 to 20 minute walk from the Princess). Imerovigli has a few places to get a drink with a view but for a true bar you’ll need to go to Fira. Renting a car is the best way to really see the island but there is a bus stop (with buses going to both Oia and Fira) a short walk from the Princess.

We are looking to book for our honeymoon in around 11th May. We have looked at the Amber Lights Villas, Imerovigili. The reviews look good but we are concerned we might be out of the way? Would you recommend this hotel? Also would you recommend us to stay in Imerovigili as we are looking for good views and to not too far from bars and restaurants. Will the weather be warm in early May? Your help would be very much appreciated! Thank you

The good: New hotel, good-sized pool, good value, nice view looking east. The not so good: Lousy location, nothing within walking distance, would need to rent a car, no caldera view (it’s on the opposite side of the island from the caldera). The weather in early May can be anything from beautiful warm sunny days to cloudy days with crisp nights and some rain showers, so be prepared for anything.

The hike from Fira to Oia sounds gorgeous. For a shorter hike would starting in Imerovigli and walking towards Oia knock some time/distance off without missing some of the nicer views? And if so, where would you access the path in Imerovigli?

Thanks a bunch! SK

Yes, this will definitely make it shorter. Take the bus from Fira (heading to Oia) and ask to get off at the Cavo Tagoo (just north of Imerovigli) – this is about half way between Fira and Oia. Still many of the best views are between here and Oia.

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Athens, Santorini and Mykonos

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Athens, Santorini and Mykonos: Your Way

From the Acropolis of Athens to the fantastic cliffs and sunsets of Santorini and fun Mykonos with its iconic white buildings and narrow streets to explore, this is the way to experience Greece.

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Executive Members receive an annual 2% Reward, up to $1,000, on qualified Costco Travel purchases

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Three nights or more in an Athens hotel

Ferry between Athens and Santorini

Three nights or more in a Santorini hotel

Ferry between Santorini and Mykonos

Three nights or more in a Mykonos hotel

Ferry between Mykonos and Athens

One night in an Athens hotel

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Athens Accommodations

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Athens Avenue Hotel

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Sygrou Ave 182, Athens, 17671, Greece

Athens Avenue Hotel is located on Sygrou Avenue. It can be reached from the port of Piraeus and Athens International Airport, as well as, the city center and the northern suburbs.

Divani Caravel Hotel

2 Vassileos Alexandrou Ave, Athens, 16121, Greece

Located near Constitution square, just a short walk from fashionable Kolonaki with its boutiques, famous cafes and restaurants, as well as, many of the major cultural points such as museums, galleries, theaters. The hotel is a great base from which to visit the key attractions of this beautiful, historic city.

Electra Hotel Athens

Ermou 5, athens, 1563, greece.

With the Athens metro just a few steps away, most of the city is within easy reach too, making the Electra Athens your perfect base for venturing about the city, doing business, discovering the Athenian treasures and enjoying your time in the capital of Greece.

Electra Metropolis Hotel

15 Mitropoleos, Athens, 10557, Greece

Located approximately 200 meters from Syntagma square, enjoy views of Athens and the Acropolis from the restaurant and roof terrace.

Grand Hyatt Athens

115, Syggrou Ave, Athens, 11745, Greece

Located between the cultural center of the historic city of Athens and the cosmopolitan Athenian Riviera, the Grand Hyatt Athens is an oasis of relaxation in the heart of a thriving city center.

Hotel Grande Bretagne, A Luxury Collection Hotel

Constitution Sq, Athens, 10564, Greece

Located in central Athens, the Hotel Grande Bretagne is within walking distance of the Acropolis, the Agora, Lycabettus Hill and the Original Olympic Stadium. With breathtaking views of the famed Acropolis and Parthenon, this hotel offers an unrivaled perspective of Athens' mythical history.

King George, A Luxury Collection Hotel

3 vas georgiou a st, athens, 10564, greece.

Located in the center of Athens, this hotel offers views of the famed Acropolis and Parthenon, regal Syntagma Square, the Parliament, lush Lycabettus Hill and the original Olympic Stadium. Guests can also enjoy an unrivaled perspective of Athens' mythical history.

Melia Athens

14 chalkokondili st, 28th october ave, athens, 10677, greece.

The Melia Athens is within walking distance to the metro station and is just a short ride to the Acropolis Museum and Parthenon. Also within walking distance is the world renowned National Archaeological Museum of Athens.

NJV Athens Plaza Hotel

2, Vasileos Georgiou A’ Str, Syntagma Square, Athens, 10564, Greece

Located in the center of Athens, the NJV Athens Plaza Hotel offers guests splendid views of the Acropolis within walking distance to the famous sites of the city.

Sofitel Athens Airport Hotel

Athens International Airport, Spata, 19019, Greece

Located opposite the Athens International Airport, 20 miles from the city center, this modern hotel offers 345 beautifully decorated guest rooms.

St. George Lycabettus Hotel

2 Kleomenous St, Athens, 10675, Greece

Situated on a hill overlooking Athens, the St. George Lycabettus Hotel looks out to the Acropolis. Retreat from the city to your room or the roof-top bar and swimming pool at this elegant, family-friendly hotel.

Santorini Accommodations

Grand Ambassador

Akrotiri - santorini, 84700, greece.

The Grand Ambassador, formerly known as Ambassador Aegean, is located in Akrotiri, on the southern end of Santorini. This stunning location offers breathtaking vistas, exciting architecture, and impeccable service.

Aressana Spa Hotel & Suites

Fira - santorini, 84700, greece.

Centrally located near the Greek Orthodox Cathedral, the Aressana provides a quiet retreat in the heart of Santorini. The hotel features a large swimming pool, the Ifestioni restaurant with Mediterranean and Greek cuisine, and the Tefsion Kallos Spa to make your stay relaxing and memorable.

Chromata Santorini Hotel

Imerovigli - Santorini, 84700, Greece

Indulge in the effortless blending of glamour, heritage, luxury and personalized service while perched high on the caldera overlooking the Aegean Sea.

Gold Suites

This hotel sits amidst Santorini's stunning volcanic scenery on the edge of Imerovigli, a lovely village dramatically perched on the highest point of the Caldera, approximately 300 meters above sea level.

Katikies Garden Hotel Santorini

Fira town, old catholic monastery fira town, thira, 84700, greece.

Surrounded by gardens, the hotel offers an oasis in the heart of cosmopolitan Santorini. The hotel is located in Fira and features chic and elegant décor.

Katikies Kirini Santorini

Oia - santorini, 84702, greece.

Katikies Kirini Santorini offers a stylish and relaxing atmosphere with views of the Caldera.

Mill Houses Elegant Suites

Firostefani - Santorini, 84700, Greece

Set high on the breathtaking cliffs of the Caldera, the Mill Houses Elegant Suites offers a unique location with stunning views of the volcano and the endless Aegean Sea.

Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Carved into Oia's cliffs, this property offers guests views of the Aegean Caldera and the blue equatorial waters

On the Rocks

Santorini, 84700, greece.

This romantic boutique hotel is carved into the rocks of Imerovigli (parts of which can still be seen in its interior), 200 meters above the Caldera basin, and is an acclaimed member of the “Small Luxury Hotels of the World.”

Remezzo Villas Santorini

Nestled on the cliffside of Santorini’s renowned Caldera, against a backdrop of the cobalt blue sky melting into the Aegean Sea, Remezzo Villas offers guests dramatic coastlines and romantic sunset views.

Santo Pure Oia Suites & Villas

Oia - santorini, 84700, greece.

Santo Pure Oia Suites & Villas, with α concept of slow living, enhanced by nature, offers wellbeing experiences dedicated to body and mind, for discerning travelers seeking balance and rejuvenation with style.

Vedema, a Luxury Collection Resort

Megalohori - santorini, 84700, greece.

Tucked away in the quaint village of Megalohori, this luxury resort features authentic Cycladic style evolved from a 100-year-old mansion and 400-year-old wine cellar.

Mykonos Accommodations

Archipelagos Hotel

Kalo livadi, mykonos, 84600, greece.

In a prime position facing the sea and Kalo Livadi beach, the Archipelagos Hotel is a cool, contemporary haven. With an outdoor pool, tailor-made spa treatments and a restaurant serving authentic Greek cuisine, it is as inviting as the sparkling Aegean.

Boheme Hotel

Vrisi, mykonos town, mykonos, 84600, greece.

Near the Mykonian Windmills and Little Venice, Bohème is a Mykonos Town Hotel, built according to the traditional Cycladic architecture standards.

Cavo Tagoo Hotel

Mykonos, 84600, Greece

Nestled into the cliffside overlooking the Aegean Sea and Delos Island, this hotel offers a “barefoot chic” aesthetic throughout, blending traditional, minimalist, Cycladic elements and stunning modern design.

Deliades Hotel

Ornos bay, mykonos, 84600, greece.

The hotel is situated at the edge of Ornos Bay and is only a short walk down to the beach.

Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort

Agios yiannis, mykonos, cyclades, 84600, greece.

Inspirationally constructed to capture the essence of the surrounding natural wonders, set on a private beach with stunning views of the sacred island of Delos, this luxury beach resort offers guests the perfect setting for romance, adventure and memories to last a life time.

Katikies Mykonos

Agios ioannis, mykonos, 84600, greece.

Nestled above the sun kissed beach of Agios loannis, Katikies Mykonos warmly invites guests to unwind and bask in the sophisticated tranquility of modern luxury. Private suites and expansive verandas overlook the azure sea evoking a sense of blissful serenity.

Kouros Hotel & Suites

Built into the cliffs of Mykonos Island, this jewel amongst luxury boutique hotels offers guests breathtaking panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and spectacular sunsets.

Petasos Beach Resort & Spa

Platis yialos, mykonos, 84600, greece.

Petasos is approximately 2.5 miles from the shopping and nightlife of Mykonos Town.

Mykonos Moments - Pietra e Mare

Mykonos Moments - Pietra e Mare, formerly known as Pietra e Mare Beach Hotel, is located at the edge of a cliff above the Kalo Livadi bay. The Kalo Livadi beach is within walking distance of the hotel, down the hillside. This boutique hotel is in a great location for enjoying the beaches of Mykonos.

Mykonos Riviera Hotel & Spa

Marina tourlos, mykonos, 84600, greece.

Tucked away within ancient Aegean cliffs, this sparkling new addition to the island of the winds offers guests sun-drenched luxury and unforgettable experiences.

The Wild Hotel by Interni

Kalafatis, loulos - agia anna, mykonos, 84600, greece.

The Wild Hotel overlooks a tiny beachfront village once named by the locals ‘the wild ones’ as it was inhabited by the fiercest and bravest fishermen of Mykonos. Now it is a tranquil, picturesque port, reminiscent of ancient times. Simple, raw, beautiful and wild.

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I’m planning to travel in

The one that combines iconic cities like Paris and Barcelona with 8 days in Greece’s mightiest islands

24 days, 6 countries

Accommodation

12 nights in Hostels, 6 nights in Hotels, 4 nights in Special Stays, 1 night in Overnight Ferry

23 Breakfasts, 1 Picnic Lunch, 6 Dinners

Coach and Ferry

Maximum 53 people

Expert Trip Manager + Driver Team + Local Guides

Wanna combine seismic cities with Greece’s unique island life? Starting in London, you’ll cruise through Paris, Barcelona, Rome and more, topped off with 2 nights on each of Greece's most popular islands – Mykonos, Paros and Santorini. With cityscapes, beachside boogies, epic food stops and much more.

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Staying in multi-share hostel rooms with up to 5 other travellers + a visit to Beaujolais.

Staying in twin-share rooms in 2 & 3-star hotels + a visit to Lyon.

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What is Contiki?

Contiki are the world leaders in organized youth travel. We’ve been providing amazing travel experiences for young travellers, from 18-35 years old, since 1962. Imagine how good you would be at something if you had been doing it for more than 60 years?

Everything about Contiki is deeply rooted in our two values ‘Make Every Moment Count’ and ‘We’re About People’. We don’t just talk, we walk the walk and live by our brand philosophy of ‘ Travel.Together. ’ which means to travel with one another, with the destinations we visit, the people and cultures we enjoy and the environment.

You’ve never experienced travel like this.

Why only 18-35?

Focusing on 18-35 year olds allows us to tailor a dramatically more powerful travel experience and an itinerary so fun it feels like all of your best Friday nights combined.

Tailoring to select ages brings together like minded, likeable people, and allows us to use Social Travel planning to build great groups of people so fast you’ll wonder if you’ve been friends forever.

What destinations can I go to with Contiki?

A sunrise, shoreline or bright light for every whim. We are proud to offer more than 350 Global trips, intelligently designed for a seamless and simple social travel experience. Visit our search page to discover your perfect travel destination.

How does it work?

We’re reinventing hassle free travel. Whether you are a solo traveller or group you can be rest assured that there has been tonnes of planning behind every trip.

Booking with Contiki means you are saying yes to a smile inducing trip where the typically stressful elements just seem to magically happen.

No one does trips like Contiki, essential accommodation, transport, reservations and so much more is all taken care of. You can multiply the magic with trip add ons and numerous customisations for your free time.

Every single Contiki social travel trip is managed by one of our expert Trip Managers, who are there to provide hands-on support and ensure your trip runs smoothly whilst you stay in the moment.

From 2022 your good time will be good for the planet as all Contiki trips are carbon natural. Find out more here.

How many other travellers are on each trip?

Group sizes are completely dependent on where and how you choose to travel with Contiki.

In Europe and in most of North America and New Zealand, group sizes can range between 24 – 53 awesome travellers.

In regions like Asia, Australia, Africa and Latin America, and on some North America and New Zealand trips, our group sizes are considerably smaller – as low as 12 or up to 30 travellers max.

Detour trips offer a different type of experience and max out at 16 people led by a local host.

Wondering what is so great about travelling together? Check out the Contiki Social travel page.

Each group is administered according to our strict Covid policies which can be viewed here.

What’s included?

All essential trip elements have been catered to ensure a great time, with great people in great places. But you mean more specifically right?

Your accommodation, essential trip transport, and a good handful of meals are included in the cost of your Contiki trip (on most trips we offer breakfast every day, plus a hand-picked selection of authentic and tasty meals).

To fill your days and Insta feeds we have Included Experiences, which are basically the sights and activities we think you just can’t afford to miss. Of course you also get our expert and highly trained team of Contiki staff to support throughout.

A day by day breakdown of inclusions and Free Time Add-Ons are available on the trip specific pages.

We always try to accommodate special requests such as birthdays, proposals etc. Please chat to our team and we can explore how we may support the request.

What’s not included?

Contiki social travel trips have a large degree of flexibility built into them to enable you to truly own your experience. This means that some trip elements are not included in the initial cost and may require additional budgeting.

Flights to and from your starting and ending points are not included in the cost of your trip. These can be added on during the booking process either online or via our contact center or booked independently by you.

Each trip contains the right amount of free time for you to explore or indulge your travel desires. We offer Free Time Add-Ons, which are additional experiences that are not included in the overall price. These add ons are highlighted on the specific trip page. Your Trip Manager will highlight these to you and organise their booking on trip. Exceptions may apply where pre booking is required but this will be made known to you in your pre departure information.

A number of meal times are left open for you to explore a region and its foodie offerings in greater detail, so budgeting for your taste in non-catered meals is important.

Travel insurance and visas are also not included in the cost of your trip, and should be booked separately.

What are Contiki's sustainability credentials?

Travel comes with responsibilities. That’s why we’re determined to travel sustainably and consciously, and that’s why we’re willing to take a stand on issues closest to our hearts. Find out more details here . With the help of our four-point Climate Action Plan, we're now on a journey to Net Zero - committing to carbon reductions and evolving to support the transition to a low-carbon future. Find out more details here .

Do I need to purchase travel insurance for this trip?

Yes! It’s a requirement of traveling with Contiki that you take out comprehensive insurance cover for cancellation, personal injury, death, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, evacuation expenses, personal liability & loss of personal property and Covid related expenses before you travel with us. It’s also super important to check that your insurance covers all of the activities you’ll be trying out, particularly any adventure activities (for all you adrenaline junkies). For more information check out our full travel insurance FAQs.

Can I stay in my destination a few days before/after the trip starts/ends? And can Contiki help me arrange this?

Yes and yes! You can add pre- and post-trip accommodation to your booking in one of three ways:

When booking your trip online

In the 'My Travel Portal' after you've made your booking

By calling us any time on 0808 281 1120

In certain cities, you may even be able to secure a preferential rate for you pre- or post-trip accommodation.

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10 Best Greece Cruises, According to Travel Experts

These are the best Greece cruises for island hopping with ease.

With its stunning beaches, rich history, iconic landmarks, and delectable cuisine, a trip to Greece is always a great idea. However, since the nation is home to more than 6,000 islands — some of which are only accessible by boat — your best bet is to explore via cruise. Just take it from Rob Clabbers, Travel + Leisure A-List travel advisor and Q Cruise + Travel founder, who tells T+L that “Greece and the Greek isles are just the perfect destinations to explore by ship” since “a cruise allows you to see more islands and gives you a unique vantage point.” Several of the best Greece cruises also include visits to neighboring countries like Turkey and Italy, for example, which allow travelers to experience several cultures and countries in one action-packed trip. Intrigued? We don’t blame you: Ahead, check out our favorite Greece cruises for every type of traveler, along with itinerary recommendations and expert insight.

Rob Clabbers is a T+L A-List travel advisor and founder of Q Cruise + Travel, a Chicago-based travel agency.

Mary Curry is a T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship specialist.

Kari Dillon is the owner of Marvelous Mouse Travels, an agency specializing in theme park and cruise vacations.

Megan Guinnup is a travel agent with Marvelous Mouse Travels.

Windstar Cruises

According to Clabbers, this small luxury cruise line is perfect for those who prefer “a smaller, more casual yacht-style experience.” Per the pro, the onboard vibes are best described as “upscale, but not stuffy or over-the-top.” It’s also worth noting that “each ship offers a water sports platform with kayaks, water trampolines, stand-up paddling, snorkel gear, floating carpets, and other ‘toys’ that are deployed (weather and location permitting, of course) at least once on most Greek itineraries.”

Itinerary: While you can’t go wrong with any of Windstar’s Greece itineraries, Clabbers is quick to call out the popular Treasures of the Greek Isles voyage, which sets sail each week from May through October. Passengers can visit beloved ports of call like Mykonos and Santorini, along with “lesser-known (and less-crowded!) places like Monemvasia and Patmos.” As part of the experience, guests have the unique opportunity to feast among the ruins in neighboring Turkey as part of the line’s complimentary Evening in Ephesus “after-hours” event, which, per Clabbers, features a decadent five-course dinner accompanied by a chamber orchestra. Speaking of culinary offerings, it’s worth mentioning that Windstar is the official cruise line partner of the esteemed James Beard Foundation, which means you can expect some of the top eats at sea.

Explora Journeys

“A new entrant in the luxury travel industry, Explora Journeys offers all the style and comfort of a modern European luxury resort property on its 922-guest yacht-inspired Explora I and, launching later this year, Explora II, ” explains Clabbers. The line has taken the industry by storm, doing away with cliche cruise staples like main dining rooms, large buffets, and notoriously small staterooms. Instead, says Clabbers, guests can choose from a selection of “excellent restaurants that other companies would call specialty restaurants,” as well as “four swimming pools, each with their own vibe,” and all-suite accommodations, some of which boast private plunge pools. Per the pro, it’s worth noting that “Explora Journeys is the first luxury line that offers a dedicated youth activity program and facility year-round;” as such, it’s an excellent option for multi-generational families looking to cruise Greece in style.

Itinerary: Sailing round-trip from Athens, the aptly named eight-night A Journey from Athens to Athens itinerary includes a mix of popular ports like Mykonos and Santorini, along with hidden-gem locales like Syros, which is famous for its neoclassical architecture, a buzzy main town, and (essentially) crowd-free beaches. The cruise also visits the serene resort town of Marmaris in Turkey before heading to its final port of call, Kos , a gorgeous Greek island known for its sandy beaches, white-washed buildings, and historical sites.

Celebrity Cruises

According to Clabbers, " Celebrity Cruises was launched by a Greek shipping family," so the line has deep ties to — and many officers who hail from — the country. What’s more, he says, "When you visit Greece, they are taking you to their homeland, and it shows in their passion and love of the Hellenic nation." The line offers a range of larger ships and, thus, more options between accommodations (from economical inside rooms to luxurious suites in The Retreat), itineraries, restaurants, and entertainment; as such, Celebrity is "a great option for adults and families who like more activities on their ship."

Itinerary: The nine-night Best Of Greece itinerary cruises round-trip from Athens on select dates from May to October and takes place aboard the 2,170-passenger Celebrity Infinity , which Clabbers described as one of the line’s “smaller and more seasoned ships.” The first port of call is Santorini, followed by Ephesus in Turkey and Mykonos. “Additionally,” says Clabbers, " Infinity travels to Volos and Thessaloniki, ports that are not typically visited by large ships.” Kavala, located in the northern part of the country, serves as the final port of call before heading back to Athens. Here, cruisers can enjoy a mix of history, culture, and architecture — plus some seriously stunning landscapes (from lagoons and lakes to wetlands and beaches) along with lush flora and fauna.

Related: What to Know About All 16 Ships in the Celebrity Cruises Fleet

Silversea offers a variety of Greece cruise itineraries, and it’s one of few truly luxe all-inclusive cruise lines. Per Clabbers, the 596-passenger Silver Moon offers all-suite accommodations and a classic small-ship feel — complete with excellent meals, beverages, and shore excursions all included in your cruise fare. Speaking of the latter, he says, “The inclusion of shore excursions also makes it easy to dive deeper into Greek culture and culinary experiences.”

Itinerary: While you can’t go wrong with any of Silversea’s Greek itineraries, Clabbers especially recommends the seven-night Athens to Athens cruise, which “calls on highlights, but adds places like Souda Bay in Crete, Nafplion, Patmos, and Rhodes ,” where he recommends visiting the “temple ruins at Lindos, with views over the Mediterranean, and then walk in the footsteps of the Crusaders in the old town.” The cruise also stops in Nafplion, which, despite its romantic seaside setting and lovely beaches, is yet to be uncovered by most American travelers — for now, at least.

Variety Cruises

According to T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship specialist Mary Curry , this local Greek cruise line offers its own fleet of yachts, most carrying fewer than 50 passengers. Since the ships are so small, says Curry, “you can travel a bit further off the beaten path.” Variety offers a handful of Greece itineraries, including specially themed hiking and wine cruises.

Itinerary: Travelers craving a true off-the-beaten-path experience can book the seven-night Unexplored Greece voyage, which sails round-trip from Athens. The first port of call is Ikira, a tiny island known for its hot springs that also happens to be one of the world’s Blue Zones. Then, it’s off to Patmos, known for its fascinating history and unspoiled beaches, before overnighting in Lipsi, a laid-back isle famous for its gorgeous scenery. On board, guests can taste the destination’s famous wine, Aposperitis. The fun continues in Levintha, inhabited by a single family who raises animals and runs a restaurant where guests can enjoy fresh-caught fish. After, it’s off to Amorgos, where scenic hiking and beautiful beaches abound. The next day, you’ll stop at Panagia Hozoviotissa, a cliffside monastery dating back to the 10th century, before heading to Koufonisia, which boasts majestic caves and rock pools accessible only by boat (thankfully, Variety as you covered). The final stop of the day is the serene island of Iraklia, which offers clear-blue waters ideal for swimming. After remaining here overnight, you’ll head to the final port of call, Serifos, where guests can visit a remote beach, followed by an onboard BBQ feast to refuel before heading to Chora, a fairy-tale village.

This French-owned cruise line offers an impressive fleet of small luxury ships. Additionally, says Curry, “Most cabins have private balconies, and travelers who plan early are rewarded with excellent value for the money.” What’s especially unique about Pontant, explains the pro, is that they “partner with Smithsonian Journeys on select departures to offer an enrichment program of included lectures and shore excursions in each port.”

Itinerary: Curry especially recommends the seven-night Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean sailing, which will cruise round-trip from Athens in July and October 2025. The cruise calls on aforementioned spots like Patmos, Rhodes, and Amorgos before visiting Adamas in Milos, a volcanic island teeming with postcard-worthy white-washed towns and breathtakingly beautiful beaches. Adamas itself is a tiny fishing port where colorful boats shimmer against the blue waters. Finally, it’s off to Mykonos and Napflion before finally disembarking in Athens.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line is world-famous for its exciting onboard offerings for children of all ages — including character and superhero meet-and-greets, dining options themed after beloved Disney princesses, and live performances galore — making it a favorite for families hoping for a fun-filled Greece vacation.

Itinerary: "Setting sail aboard the Disney Dream on the seven-night Mediterranean with Greek Isles itinerary is nothing short of magical!" says Megan Guinnup , a travel agent with Marvelous Mouse Travels . Cruising round-trip from Rome, the ship calls on Naples before exploring Greece. In addition to popular ports like Athens and Mykonos, you'll also visit Chania on the island of Crete, which offers a bustling harbor, exquisite architecture, and cobblestone streets that look like they were plucked straight from a (Disney) fairy tale. After exploring each locale, the fun continues back on board, where, per the pro, "there is enchantment everywhere — meeting beloved characters, enjoying deck parties with Mickey and Minnie, and indulging in exquisite cuisine."

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Ships

Royal Caribbean

This mega-ship line truly has it all: Flashy entertainment and onboard activities — which, depending on the ship, can include everything from water slides to zip lines — and plenty of drinking and dining offerings to appease even the pickiest eaters. Guinnup and Kari Dillon, owner of Marvelous Mouse Travels, recommend setting sail aboard Odyssey of the Seas , which offers several Greek itineraries. "On board," says Guinnup, "There's a plethora of activities to enjoy, from bumper cars and roller skating to exquisite dining and a bionic bar — there's something for everyone!"

Itinerary: The seven-night Greek Isles itinerary sails round-trip from Rome with stops in Santorini, Ephesus, Mykonos, and Naples. Keep in mind that because the ship is so large, Santorini and Mykonos are both tender ports. With that in mind, Dillon recommends springing on The Key, an optional add-on that includes priority tender access so that you can spend as much time as possible on land basking in its beauty.

Virgin Voyages

Richard Branson’s adults-only line has taken the industry by storm with its innovative offerings, including 20-plus restaurants instead of buffets, an onboard tattoo parlor, adult-focused entertainment offerings, and a two-story nightclub.

Itinerary: Dillon especially recommends the seven-night Greek Island Aglow itinerary for travelers seeking a high-energy, adults-only option. She continues, telling T+L, “Not only does this sail to the islands of Santorini and Rhodes, but it [also] has an overnight in Mykonos, which is world-famous for its lively party atmosphere.” As a bonus, the cruise also calls on Bodrum in Turkey, which boasts beautiful beaches, flower-filled cafes, and a bustling nightlife scene.

Celestyal Cruises

The Greece-based Celesytal Cruises prides itself on offering an authentic Greek vacation experience. Additionally, Celesytal is unique in that it offers year-round Aegean Sea sailings cruising round-trip from Athens and ranging in length from three to 14 nights. On land, Celeystal guests can choose from a selection of the line’s “Authentic Excursions,” which are specially curated, small-group, expert-led experiences designed to take travelers off the beaten path. Options — including walking food tours and pottery-making demos at a local factory — abound, depending on the particular port of call.

Itinerary: The seven-night Idyllic Aegean voyage visits Thessaloniki (which offers an eclectic combination of history, nightlife, and gastronomy), Kuşadası (a popular Turkish resort town), and Heraklion (the capital of Crete) before heading to iconic isles like Santorini and Mykonos, where the ship will remain overnight. Before returning to Athens for disembarkation, you’ll also stop in magnificent Milos.

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Canaves Ena Is a Luxe Hotel Built into Santorini Wine Caves

Now's the time to visit greece.

Booking a trip to Santorini is always a good idea.

Sun, seafood, views... we could go on.

But booking a trip to Santorini is an even better idea when you've got a luxe new place to stay.

Canaves Ena debuted May 1. The all-suites hotel has transformed the prior inhabitant—the Canaves Oia Boutique Hotel and its series of 17th-century wine caves—into a minimalist retreat for secluded stays. So make sure to bring a thoroughly vetted plus-one.

Each spacious suite has a private veranda and infinity pool that overlooks the cliffside and sports views of the Aegean Sea. If you really want to live it up, choose the River Pool Suite with its jacuzzi carved into the original 17th century caves, a king-size bed, separate living room and large bathroom.

The property's facade builds on the typical whitewashed look that's typical of Santorini with a modern cave design in a neutral color palette. Common areas include a pool with a swim-up bar, a spa, and Adami restaurant.

Situated alongside the main pool, Adami serves Greek cuisine and dishes based on centuries-old recipes. Local ingredients go into dishes like Tomatokeftedes (Santorinian tomato fritters with Katiki cheese); Salatouri (Greek salad with flaked ray or skate filet); Bakaliaropita (a decadent cod pie); and Tuna Tigania, a Greek-style tuna served with crispy fries. There's also wine aplenty.

There's a gym and yoga classes, but less rigorous wellness activities can also be had at the spa. It's built into a cave (surely you saw that coming) and features treatment rooms, a sauna and a steam bath. So go ahead and treat yourself to a steam and a massage.

Before you continue treating yourself to poolside spritzes and seafood.

I am 21+ years old

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