tours to santorini greece

THE 10 BEST Santorini Tours & Excursions

Santorini tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Santorini Classic Catamaran Cruise with Meal Drinks and Transfers

2. Santorini Caldera Cruise Tour (Volcano, Hot Springs, Thirassia)

3. Half-Day Exclusive Catamaran Cruise in Santorini with Meal and Open Bar

4. Santorini Wine Adventure with 12 Wine Tastings, Tapas and Sunset

5. Santorini Volcano and Hot Springs Cruise Tour from Fira Old Port

6. Santorini Sunset Luxury Sailing Catamaran Cruise with BBQ, drinks, transfer

7. Private Santorini Tailor-Made | Choice of the guest!

8. Santorini Day Tour with Sunset in Oia

9. Santorini 5 Hour Custom Private Sightseeing Tour

10. Santorini Platinum Catamaran Cruise with Meal, BBQ and Open Bar

11. Santorini Sightseeing Half-Day Tour in a Small-Group

12. Santorini Highlights: The Best Shore Excursion for Cruise Ships

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

14. Santorini Panoramic Blue Shade Tour-Firostefani, Imerovigli, Oia

15. Santorini Luxury Caldera Cruise with Full Greek Meal and Sunset

16. Santorini ATV-Quad Experience Tour

17. Cooking Class in Traditional cave house in Santorini!

18. Santorini Private Instagram Tour

19. Semi Private Premium | Catamaran Cruise with BBQ on board & Drinks

20. Day Tour to Santorini Island from Heraklion Crete

21. Santorini Private Tour: Fully Customizable with Pickup

22. Santorini Highlights Small-Group Tour with Wine Tasting from Fira

23. Santorini Highlights and Venetian Castles Small-Group Day Tour

24. Greek Cuisine Cooking Class in Santorini

25. Sunset Sailing Catamaran Cruise in Santorini with BBQ and Drinks

26. Santorini Wine Stories: Sunset Tour with Tasting & Dinner

27. Semi-Private Luxury | Santorini Catamaran Cruise with BBQ on board and Drinks

28. Half-Day Small-Group Eat and Walk Santorini Food Tour

29. Santorini Private Custom Tour-5 Hours

30. 6-Hour Private Best of Santorini Experience

What travelers are saying.

• Santorini Classic Catamaran Cruise with Meal Drinks and Transfers
• Santorini Caldera Cruise Tour (Volcano, Hot Springs, Thirassia)
• Santorini Wine Adventure with 12 Wine Tastings and Sunset
• Half-Day Exclusive Catamaran Cruise in Santorini with Meal and Open Bar
• Santorini Sunset Luxury Sailing Catamaran Cruise with BBQ, drinks, transfer
• Santorini Wine Stories
• Santorini Road Trips
• Santorini Wine Adventure
• Santorini's Best Driver
• My Santorini Tour
• Kallisti Tours
• Sunbird Travel Agency
• Experience of Santorini
• Barbarossa Sailing
• Santorini Photo Tours
• Santorini MTB Adventures
• The Pirate Private Fishing Tours
• Angel Sailing Santorini
• Alex Private Boat Rental
• Santorini Platinum Travel
• Explorer1 Yachting

Santorini Tours & Trips

Find the right tour package for you through Santorini. We've got 24 trips going to Santorini, starting from just 3 days in length, and the longest tour is 16 days. The most popular month to go is June, which has the most tour departures.

24 Santorini tour packages with 84 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Bewitching Greece with All Inclusive beach stay

Our overall experience was good. They were very helpful when we had an issue and responded quickly and efficiently. We found the tour of the Acropolis had too many people, on top of how crowded the location was to start. I recommend going to see the Acropolis on the off season. I would recommend Tour Radar.

• Coach / Bus

Best of Greece

Mother Nature tried to derail the start of our tour and I had great sympathy for Greece and the people affected. Our tour guide, Gabi and the magnificent staff back at the office scrambled wonderfully to find alternative accomodation and sites for us to visit. I can't speak highly enough of their efforts. The tour has an ideal mix of ancient and contemporary Greece, delivered to well by a lovely tour guide, extremely capable bus driver and a user friendly schedule.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Premium Greece Cyclades Islands

Athens & Santorini

Athens & Santorini Tour - 5 Days - Premium

I recently embarked on a your of Greece, and I must say it was an absolutely phenomenal experience. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with warmth and professionalism by the tour organizers.

Premium Greece in Depth

Santorini Explorer Tour

We loved the trip with the exception to part of the planning. There was very clear timing provided for our tour, March 5th through the 10th, however, the day we arrived to Athens and met our guide, she provided us the trip info for only March 5th through 9th. That was a bit disappointing, considering there was precious communication about our trip timing (which is part of the TourRadar package deals). Our guide, however, took care of our last day staying (even though changed the hotel in Santorini on the last day which is a bit inconvenient). But overall transfer was really good

Classical Greece Getaway

Athens & Santorini Tour - 5 Days - Standard

My friends and I had an amazing time, and having that reassurance that if anything went wrong we had a number to call. The plan was very well thought out and explained, our guide Elias was very helpful in giving us the details and welcoming us at the airport. Would recommend this trip to my family

Athens & Greek Island Santorini - 6 Days

Overall went to plan, organizer in Santorini was sick but contacted by phone

6 Day Tour Athens & Santorini Island to Discover Greece's Charm

Our tour guides and drivers were all great

Escape to Santorini, 3 Days

Driver was 30 minutes late picking us up for departure from hotel to airport. Otherwise, things went well. Thank you.

Greece Island Hopper featuring Athens, Mykonos and Santorini (2024)

Greece - Athens and Santorini

5 Days Athens and Santorini.

What people love about santorini tours.

The best part of the tour was the communication with Rose, Wendy, Sam and Alberto. The promptness, clarity and helpfulness in their communication was impressive. Their role in organising transport etc was commendable. Many good wishes for their good work! My suggestions for some other aspects: 1. If a person opts for a group tour, at least inform them in advance that it will be not be a group tour if it so happens, rather than leaving it to them to discover when they find themselves alone on reaching the destination. 2. Select your hotels carefully keeping in mind that your customers are paying you money to have an enjoyable tour experience that a tourist looks for. If you give a hotel which is located at a completely secluded place and does not offer even the basic facilities, it spoils a tourist's experience to a large extent. 3. Prepare a standard guiding document for your various tours, like many good tour companies do. This type of document includes helpful suggestions on what to expect, what to pack, what kind of weather, what precautions to take, currency suggestions, location and shopping scenarios etc. If you have a ready and comprehensive document like this, you can share it with all your customers for a particular tour well in time. This will avoid their having to ask many questions individually. Good luck. Madhavi

Mother Nature tried to derail the start of our tour and I had great sympathy for Greece and the people affected. Our tour guide, Gabi and the magnificent staff back at the office scrambled wonderfully to find alternative accomodation and sites for us to visit. I can't speak highly enough of their efforts. The tour has an ideal mix of ancient and contemporary Greece, delivered to well by a lovely tour guide, extremely capable bus driver and a user friendly schedule.

Santorini Tours starting in:

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• Explorer (23)
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• Fully Guided (11)
• Personalized (10)
• Partially Guided (9)
• Private (6)
• In-depth Cultural (5)
• Small Group (7)
• 7 Day Tours (13)
• Spring 2024 (18)
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• Fall / Autumn 2024 (20)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 (9)
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• Winter 2025 / 2026 (3)
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• May 2025 (10)
• June 2025 (9)
• July 2025 (7)
• August 2025 (7)
• September 2025 (7)
• October 2025 (6)
• November 2025 (4)
• December 2025 (3)

Other Regions in Greece

• Greek Islands (505)
• Aegean Islands (401)
• Mainland Greece (399)
• Cyclades Greece (371)
• Athens Santorini & Mykonos (362)
• Peloponnese Islands (110)
• Mykonos (87)
• Central Greece (63)
• Northern Greece (59)
• Ionian Islands (28)
• Attica (21)
• Eastern Aegean Islands (14)
• Dodecanese Islands (14)
• Saronic Islands (6)
• Sporades Islands (5)

Travel Styles

• Singles and Solo (20)
• For Couples (5)
• Seniors (9)

Tours in Santorini

Visit the Volcano and the Hot Springs!

Jet Ski Safaris to hidden beaches

Helicopter Tour above the Volcano!

Discover the Best Tours in Santorini , but also the best activities & experiences! A wide variety of options are available, including both adrenaline-boosting activities and relaxing tours & experiences.

In brief, the most popular tours are boat trips to the Volcano and the Hot Springs , wine tasting in the numerous wineries , and jet ski expeditions . They are offered from April to October to provide unique experiences during your holiday. Book in advance! The tours are very popular.

OUR SELECTION OF BEST TOURS

With over 50 activities and tours in Santorini in total, the possibilities are endless! You can also view them by category ↓. The bestsellers are marked with a

Ancient Akrotiri guided tour

In this guided tour, guests can get acquainted with the important and historic value of the ancient settlement of Akrotiri. Being a Bronze Age community, it encapsulates fascinating insights into a life long gone. When the immense volcanic eruption occurred, the area was buried in ash.

Boat tour to Volcano & Hot Springs

Guests will enjoy a boat ride to the volcanic islet, followed by a rejuvenating hike all the way to the rim of the crate, as well as around it. Before returning, there will be a refreshing hot spring swimming stop at the bathing bay of Palea Kameni islet.

Boat tour to Volcano, Hot springs & Thirassia island

This tour bundles up the world-famous volcano, the hot Springs of Palea Kameni, and the untouched island of Thirassia. All guests get to enjoy a charming cruise from Fira to the volcanic islets and serene Thirassia, walk up to the crater, swim into the hot springs, and wander on the tranquil sister ...

Boat trip to Volcano, Hot Springs, Thirassia & Oia (from Athinios port)

Starting in the morning, the boat embarks towards the volcano where visitors are able to walk up to the rim of the crater. The next stop is at the hot springs. Moving on, Thirassia island awaits to be discovered. After that, we transfer you to the village of Oia bu bus.

Sunset boat tour to Volcano, Hot Springs, Thirassia & Oia

The tours starts from port of Athinios. A traditional boat (caique) will take you to the volcano to see the active crater and swim at the hot spings! After that, the boat will head to the island of Thirassia and finally to Oia, to watch the most incredible sunset in the world.

Bus tour around the island (best sights)

This bus tour around Santorini allows you to see the top sights: the Minoan Town of Akrotiri, the Red Beach, the black beaches, Santo Winery, and Oia at sunset time.

Sunset Boat trip & Dinner on-board

This sunset tour starts in the afternoon with a trip to the volcano and the hot springs. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner with wine and see the magical sunset from the gulf of Oia, on the northern side of Santorini.

Tasting & Walking Tour

This 4.5-hour walking tour starts in Firostefani and ends in Fira. It is a unique journey through your senses. Enjoy breathtaking views and hidden alleyways as well as local eateries and all of that while exploring the secrets of Greek cuisine!

Luxury Catamaran tour around the Caldera

Board a deluxe catamaran and set for an amazing, semi-private trip at the caldera, the hot springs, and the southern coasts of Santorini. Rich dinner is served on board and snorkeling equipment is also available.

Sunset Luxury Catamaran trip around the Caldera

This fantastic semi-private, deluxe sailing trip offers a unique experience to sail along the impressive caldera cliffs and see the most romantic sunset in the world from the deck of a sail boat in the Aegean Sea.

Cooking Class & Wine-tasting tour

Take this 6-hour wine-tasting and cooking tour and taste the finest local products of Santorini. The tour includes a visit to two wineries on the island plus cooking in a traditional restaurant.

Wine Tasting Experiences

The island of Santorini is one of the most significant national winemakers. The range of tours offered for wine-tasting is so wide that you can book an experience based exclusively on this. We have made a selection of the best options available.

Jet Ski Safaris

One of the upcoming ways of discovering the seascapes and the volcano is by booking a jet ski safari. The watersports clubs, located at the beaches of Perivolos, Saint George, and Perissa, offer a multitude of guided excursions. All participants receive a basic training seminar before embarking on ...

Morning cruise, winery tour and sunset in Oia village

In this unique one-day tour, you will have the opportunity to explore some of the finest locations in Santorini and discover up close the breathtaking beauty of this mesmerizing destination! Our tour includes a relaxing cruise, visits to renowned beaches, wine tasting and a jaw-dropping sunset at ...

The Lost Atlantis 9D Experience

Whether mythology and history excite you or not, don’t skip visiting the first museum in the world dedicated to the myth of Atlantis. Equipped with the latest technologies, the Lost Atlantis Experience Museum offers an all-senses journey to Santorini's history.

Stand Up Paddle (SUP) Tours & Rentals

Are you into watersports? Then you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to enjoy the azure waters of Santorini on a floating board! Stand Up Paddling (SUP) is a new activity, perfect for those who want to exercise and have a fun time in the water at the same time.

Scuba diving sessions

Scuba diving, one of the most popular water activities, is available in Santorini. Santorini is as spectacular from under the sea, as much as it is over it. Dive to encounter the technicolor reefs and beautiful marine life!

Electric Bike Tour around Santorini

You can now approach many places on Santorini by different means of transport. The electric bike is a new activity that combines fun, sightseeing, and exercising, and allows you to reach unique places and enjoy marvelous views while pedaling.

Photography Expedition

Capture the breathtaking views in a magical setting under the guidance of a professional in a four-hour photography expedition. Visit renowned and hidden locations on Santorini and avoid paying for postcards by taking the most impeccable pictures yourself.

Windsurfing Courses for beginners

Windsurfing has been a favorite among watersports enthusiasts for years. However, even if you are not experienced, yet interested in the activity, a club will allow you to take a beginner windsurfing class in its cerulean waters.

Parasailing

Wavesports offers this great activity to enjoy with your friends or alone. You will be parasailing over the water with the help of the boat. For 10 minutes you will have great views to the island, and the amazing sunset!

DISCOVER THE TOURS BY CATEGORY

Santorini provides its visitors with a plethora of unique sites. The imposing active volcano, the quaint Oia, and the unparalleled sunset are just a few. Participating in tours in Santorini is the best way to soak up as much information and as many unique sceneries as you can during your stay.

BOAT & SAILING

Boat tours are a favorite when it comes to experiencing the seascape of Santorini - they offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy the crystal clear waters of the Aegean and to approach the island's or the volcano 's fascinating coastline. Excursions by boat are a relaxing activity that usually includes snorkeling, hiking, lunch or dinner, and a visit to the volcano , the hot springs , or Thirassia . Some are offered during the daytime, while others are held in the evening for sunset gazing. Wine tasting, fishing, and other activities may also be a part of the experience, depending on which tour you pick. For an unforgettable trip by boat to the volcano and Thirassia or the hot springs, check out the Sunset boat trip to Volcano, Hot Springs, Thirassia & Oia , and Sunset and Dinner on board ! For sailing cruises during the day, check out Day Sailing Cruise with a deluxe catamaran that allows you to admire the caldera villages from the seaside. It also includes a swim in the hot springs and some of its most popular seashores. The same one comes in an evening version .

If you feel like history is not your cup of tea, prepare yourself for a change of heart! Thankfully, history tours do not include boring textbooks. On the contrary, interactive activities for the whole family take over at Santorini! The Akrotiri Guided Tour is the best way to experience the island's former glory. It takes place in the Akrotiri Minoan site , one of the most significant Minoan settlements in the Aegean Sea. A professional guide will show you around the place where the mythic city of Atlantis is said to have been. If legend-hunting sounds fascinating, then the Lost Atlantis 9D Experience is just what you need! It is the world's first museum dedicated to the myth of Lost Atlantis and offers an extraordinary infotainment experience! Featuring innovative technologies, the 9D experience will captivate children and grown-ups alike.

SIGHTSEEING

Whether you decide to spend only a few days on the island or more than a week, we suggest booking one designed to introduce you to the landmarks, nature, and cultural heritage. A bus around the island gets you to several must-visit spots, including the archaeological site of Akrotiri, a winery, Perivolos beach , Oia village , and more. That kind of tour allows travelers to get a hint of the best parts of the island comfortably.

Since approaching the sights can be quite a struggle during the high season, helicopter tours constitute a unique alternative to conventional sightseeing. A helicopter trip above the volcano and Oia allows visitors to avoid the struggling heat and the hoards of tourists while gazing at the breathtaking scenery from above. If you are interested in visiting the cosmopolitan Mykonos , a helicopter transfer from one place to the other is also available!

Private tours in Santorini are highly recommended for couples and small groups of up to 4 people, allowing you to have fun and explore the area privately. This type of tour has been designed to add a hint of luxury to your vacation, making it possible to enjoy some of the island's best-hidden aspects. When looking for private cruises, the best option is hands down, the Private catamaran cruise with BBQ , which is ideal for couples who want to explore the coastline and the volcano. Starting at Ammoudi 's picturesque harbor, the cruise takes you for a swim in the crystal clear waters of the famous Red beach and Mesa Pigadia. Additionally, you will visit the hot springs and experience their healing properties before heading to one of Santorini's signature landmarks, the 19th-century lighthouse . The cruise is available both in the morning and the evening. It ends with a BBQ lunch or dinner, where you will get to pair traditional Greek delicacies with the finest local wines.

EXPERIENCES

Visiting the volcano.

No visitor should skip visiting the imposing volcano , the signature landmark that shaped and reshaped the island. Boarding on a boat for an unforgettable volcano visit is the best way to experience the beauty of Santorini's untamed landscape! It allows reaching the active volcano and walking along the rim of its crater. Among the most worthy tours in Santorini is the Volcano and Hot Springs Boat Tour , which combines a trip to the volcano with a visit to the hot springs at Palea Kameni islet. You shouldn't miss the chance to reap the benefits of the hot waters! Alternatively, the Volcano, Hot Springs, and Thirassia Boat Tour includes an extra stop in Thirassia . Santorini and its calm and quiet sister island are polar opposites! The striking beauty of Thirassia lies in its unspoiled nature. With a few permanent inhabitants, Thirassia has not been subjected to tourist development, maintaining its authentic atmosphere. A trip there will balance out your buzzing adventures.

WINE-TASTING

Viniculture is a substantial aspect of local culture; wines produced are famous all around the world. If you would like to know more about winemaking and wine tasting, winery visits and wine-tasting tours in Santorini are among the most popular activities to do. Wine-tasting experiences are available and can meet the needs of all wine lovers. Paying a visit to several wineries allows you to soak up invaluable information about the tradition of wine production. Visits often end by tasting local wines. Santorini is home to the Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum , which allows you to expand your knowledge of the wine tradition and the wine-making process. Visiting it comes with a unique wine-tasting experience. Book it in advance !

TRADITIONAL COOKING

One of the best ways to keep your memories alive is to return home with a few recipes to help you recreate the taste of your trip!  During food tours, visitors can sample delicious Greek starters, savor locally produced wine, and have hands-on cooking workshops to assure that the best souvenirs will be the recipes they learn - this is why cooking tours in Santorini are so preferred by visitors! During the Cooking Class and Wine Tasting Tour , participants acquire new culinary knowledge and techniques, along with a visit to the volcanic vineyards to understand viniculture deeper. Additionally, a professional chef will guide you through the preparation and execution of authentic Greek recipes, the results of which you can taste. For guests seeking a more authentic experience, the Sunset Fishing Trip with Dinner and Drinks allows you to spend an evening on a traditional fishing boat. Get ready to hone your angler skills and cook the fresh catch of the day on the deck while savoring the crimson colors of the Aegean sunset! As the culinary and wine tours are super popular, we highly recommend booking them before your arrival in Santorini.

PHOTO SHOOTING

With its postcard-like sceneries, picturesque villages, dreamy sunsets, and charming natural landscape, Santorini is an ideal destination for amateur or professional photography enthusiasts. Many tours in Santorini have been designed around photography, making it possible to practice your favorite hobby while touring and exploring the island. During those tours, you will exclusively visit the most photogenic spots at both popular and secret locations. One of the photography classes has been designed as a workshop for beginners, where you can learn the basics of night photography is the Evening Photography Workshop . This workshop offers the opportunity to capture the volcanic landscape at nighttime and get some breathtaking views of the moonlit caldera. Additionally, the Photography Expedition is available both in the morning and the afternoon. During this activity, you will be taken to various places to practice your skills, whether you are a professional photographer or not.

As one of the most fun activities on Santorini, a jet ski excursion guarantees an experience out of the ordinary, allowing you to combine your favorite watersport with an exploration of the volcanic coastline. The Jet Ski Safari is the perfect option for adrenaline-seekers. Participants may either join a relaxing safari guided trip or a jet ski rental. The second option allows you to explore the southern bays on your own. More than five different jet ski safari safaris are available to choose from. Consider combining them for a thorough marine exploration! Booking your jet ski safari in advance is recommended, as they sell out quickly.

SEA KAYAKING

As an alternative to jet skiing, sea kayaking is less adventurous but equally fun. For sea kayak lovers, the Sea Kayaking and Snorkeling with Lunch offers a fun day in the sea away from the busy alleys of the caldera villages. Participants get to explore the southern part of Santorini and its intriguing volcanic seashores. Stops for swimming and snorkeling underneath the morning sun are included. At lunchtime, you will taste authentic Greek dishes at a traditional local tavern. A plethora of additional activities are available on the shores. Watersports enthusiasts will have the time of their lives during their stay since Scuba diving , Parasailing , Stand Up Paddling and Kitesurfing are only some of the numerous options.

Visitors not keen on watersports may be interested in horseback riding , which allows you to catch unparalleled views of the caldera.

TOURS FROM OTHER NEARBY ISLANDS

Day tours to Santorini are available from other islands, making it possible for guests to spend a full day exploring the marvelous locations of the island. For instance, the Tour from Paros and the Tour from Naxos are traveler favorites and include transportation to the best caldera villages.

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Santorini Best Tours

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Explore traditional villages, sail the Aegean Sea, discover the historical sites of Santorini, Greece.

Our company offers an excellent variety of Santorini tours to choose from, making your visit to the island unforgettable. Sample unique flavors by booking our Winery or Food Tour or experience the mysterious wild side of the island on our Horse Riding Tour. Capture breathtaking views on the exciting Volcano Trip. Eager for more? Check the whole list of tours & activities we offer and enjoy Santorini in the best possible way!

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First time Santorini: top tips to have the best time on this famed Greek isle

Dec 7, 2021 • 5 min read

Santorini is a dazzling star of the Greek Islands, and it's extremely popular with tourists © Andrew Mayovskyy / Shutterstock

Santorini is the supermodel of the Greek islands, a head-turner whose face is instantly recognizable around the world: multicolored cliffs soar out of a sea-drowned volcanic crater, topped by whitewashed buildings.

With its reputation for dazzling panoramas, romantic sunsets and volcanic-sand beaches, it’s hardly surprising Santorini features on so many travelers’ bucket lists.  If you're planning to join the crowd, here’s what you need to know for your first trip to Santorini .

Part of the Cyclades island group, Santorini (officially known as Thira, a name that encompasses the volcanic islets within Santorini’s orbit) sits in the Aegean Sea, roughly halfway between Athens and Crete.

The island is shaped like a wonky croissant, and the neighboring islets hint at the fact that Santorini was once circular. It was known as Strongili (the Round One). Thousands of years ago, a huge volcanic eruption caused the center of Strongili to sink, leaving a caldera (or crater) with towering cliffs along the east side, now Santorini’s trademark landscape.

Beyond the views, Santorini's vineyards and volcanic beaches

Santorini’s commercial development is focused on the caldera-edge clifftops in the island’s west, with large clusters of whitewashed buildings nesting at dizzying heights, spilling down cliff-sides and offering gasp-inducing views from land or sea.  Fira , the island’s busy capital, sprawls north into villages called Firostefani (about a 15-minute walk from Fira) and Imerovigli (the highest point of the caldera edge, about a 30-minute walk from Fira). A path running through these villages is lined with upmarket hotels, restaurant terraces and endless photo opportunities.

These three conjoined settlements draw most visitors, together with the stunning and quite exclusive village of Oia in Santorini’s north. There’s a growing number of hotels in the island’s south, offering caldera views to the north and northeast. Akrotiri’s views come cheaper than Oia’s, but it’s a fair way from the action of Fira.

Santorini’s east coast is lesser known than the celebrated, elevated west coast. Here, the caldera-edge heights have sloped down to sea level, and volcanic-sand beaches and resorts offer a very different drawcard. East coast resorts such as Kamari and Perissa have a more traditional (and more affordable) island-holiday appeal: sunlounger-filled beaches, water sports, bars and taverna-lined promenades. The east coast’s beaches are lined with black sand. On the south coast, there’s a string of beaches famed for their multi-colored sand. The dramatic Red Beach is a traveler favorite.

The island’s interior is dotted with vineyards and traditional villages that let you see beyond the tourist hustle. Make a stop in Pyrgos for great eats and a wander through charming backstreets.

Food, archaeology,  open-air cinema: things to do in Santorini

Sure, Santorini's views will stop you in your tracks and you'll get great glimpses into how A-listers travel, but there’s plenty more to explore, from a gorgeous open-air cinema to a cool microbrewery , wine caverns adorned with artworks, and cooking demonstrations and classes  that celebrate Santorini’s growing foodie culture.

The obvious prime activity on Santorini is to walk the caldera edge and admire the views. Walks in and around Fira are spectacular, particularly heading north to Firostefani and Imerovigli along the caldera-edge pathway. Keep walking and you’ll eventually reach Oia, but be aware that this is no small undertaking and the trail beyond Imerovigli can be rough. It’s about 5.6 miles (9km) in all, and a good four-hour walk, one way.

Santorini’s lauded wines are its crisp dry whites and the amber-colored, unfortified dessert wine known as Vinsanto. Both are made from the indigenous grape variety, assyrtiko . About a dozen local vineyards host tastings (usually with a small charge) and some offer food, with scenery and local produce combining to great effect. Start your investigations at  SantoWines .

Santorini’s intrigue reaches deep into the past, with the fascinating site of Akrotiri displaying a Minoan city destroyed by the volcanic eruption of 1613 BC. In Fira, the impressive Museum of Prehistoric Thera helps piece together the story of ancient Akrotiri.

Nature’s handiwork is on display from any waterfront seat come sundown, but prime sunset-viewing on Santorini is in Oia, where thousands of tourists flock to admire (and applaud) nightfall.

Any tour your heart desires can be organized, and there are dozens of agencies ready to help with winery visits, archaeology tours, sunset-watching and more. The most popular option is a cruise, and the classic itinerary takes in the caldera’s volcanic islands of Nea Kameni and Palia Kameni, including a stop at the former’s crater and the latter’s hot springs.

Accommodation with a view in Santorini comes at a price

If you can afford it, first-timers to Santorini should stay on the caldera edge to experience the full "wow" factor. Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli and Oia have hotels and villas with whitewashed interiors, terraces and infinity pools that have inspired marriage proposals, high-fashion photo shoots and many Instagram posts.

Unfortunately there are not a lot of places to stay in these view-blessed locales for budget-conscious travelers: caldera-view accommodations come at a premium, and they are in hot demand. You'll also need to book well in advance.

There are decent midrange options in Fira and Firostefani (less so in Imerovigli and Oia), away from the front-row panoramas. There’s also a great hostel and a budget-friendly campground (with rooms) on the outskirts of Fira.

If you’re more interested in a beach break or activities, stay in Perissa or Kamari (and catch the bus into Fira). The advantage of this is some respite from the camera-toting caldera crowds, plus more reasonable prices.

The best times to visit Santorini without the crowds

Peak travel time to Santorini is July and August, when prices soar and hotels, viewpoints and beaches are packed with tourists. The shoulder season months of April, May, early June, late September and October are better times to visit. Things are marginally quieter at the caldera edge, and considerably quieter on the east coast (where accommodation bargains are plentiful).

Don’t discount a winter break, when crowds are scarce (and prices low) while the scenery is still breathtaking. Santorini is working on positioning itself as a year-round destination.

Reach Santorini by ferry, catamaran or plane 

Frequent ferries and high-speed catamarans link Santorini with Athens’ main port of Piraeus, Crete and various Cycladic islands. Check  OpenSeas  for ferry timetables. Santorini Airport has year-round flight connections with Athens, and summertime European connections. On the island, bus services are decent, if crowded in summer. Lots of companies also offer cars, mopeds and ATV four-wheeler bikes to rent. 

You might also like: Plan your perfect Greek island-hopping adventure Finding the right Greek island The 10 best museums in Athens

This article was first published May 16, 2019 and updated Dec 7, 2021.

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Santorini, Greece

Greece › Santorini Travel Guide Updated: March 10, 2024 By Santorini Dave

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• Best Towns in Santorini • Best Beaches in Santorini • Best Hotels in Santorini • Hotels with Private Pools • Hotels With Sunset Views • Best Tours & Things to Do • Best Restaurants • Best Wineries • Best Boat Tours

The view of Oia from Skaros Rock in Imerovigli , Santorini. The hike along the caldera is my favorite thing to do in Santorini.

Santorini is the most spectacular island in Greece and one of the geologic treasures of Europe. The five villages of Fira , Oia , Imerovigli , Firostefani , and Akrotiri sit atop the caldera and offer spectacular views into the crater created from a 16th-century BC volcanic eruption. What remains is an incredible sight and a magical setting for island hikes , infinity pools , luxury hotels , clifftop wineries , and dreamy sunset dinners . With a land area of 76 square kilometers, Santorini is a little bigger than New York’s island of Manhattan. The 2024 Santorini Travel Guide Skip to our Santorini FAQ

Santorini Basics

Where to Stay in Santorini Best Beaches & Beach Towns When to Visit Santorini Santorini Maps Santorini Videos Is Santorini Safe? Fira or Oia? Santorini or Mykonos?

Santorini Hotels

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Santorini Trip Planning

Where is Santorini? How to Get to Santorini Santorini Holidays: Planning a Trip First Time: Where to Stay in Santorini Ferry Port Guide Airport Guide Getting Around by Bus Renting a Car Santorini Taxis Athens to Santorini by Ferry Mykonos to Santorini by Ferry Crete to Santorini by Ferry Santorini Helicopter Tours & Transfers Day Trips to Santorini Santorini Travel Agencies Santorini Vacation Packages Weddings & Reception Parties Cruises to Santorini Santorini Cruise Excursions 1, 2, 3, & 7 Days in Santorini

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Frequently Asked Questions about Santorini

See Also: Greece: Tips & Information for First-Timers

Where is Santorini?

Santorini is an island in Greece, located in the Aegean Sea, 200 km southeast of Athens , 150 km south of Mykonos , and 140 km north of Crete . Flights to Santorini take 4 hours from London, 3.5 hours from Paris, 2 hours from Rome, and 1 hour from Athens. There are no direct flights to Santorini from the USA, Canada, or Australia.

How do I get to Santorini?

There are multiple daily Athens to Santorini ferries (4.5 to 6 hours by highspeed ferry). The islands of Naxos, Paros, Ios, Milos, Folegandros, Mykonos, and Crete (1 to 3 hours) will have direct ferries from April to early November, and sometimes year-round for Naxos and Paros. Flights from Athens to Santorini take less than 1 hour, direct flights from western Europe (London, Paris, Amsterdam, Rome, Venice) take 2 to 4 hours.

Santorini Ferry Port Video

How big is Santorini? Santorini has a population of 15,500 and a land area of 76 square kilometers (an area a little bigger than Manhattan). The length of the island is 16 km and its width varies from 1 to 5 km. It takes 45 minutes to drive from one end of Santorini to the other. What is the best month to go to Santorini? The best time to visit Santorini for good weather, boat tours, swimming, sunbathing, and nightlife is from June to September. If beach time and hot weather are not a necessity and you’re more interested in sightseeing, history, hiking, and exploring then late March, April, May, October, and early November are also great. What are the main towns in Santorini? The towns of Fira, Oia, Firostefani, Imerovigli, and Akrotiri cling to the 300m cliffs and have magical views of the caldera and volcano to the west. The beach towns of Kamari, Perissa, Perivolos, and Agios Georgios are on the east and south sides of the island (not the caldera).

Do I need a car in Santorini? A car can be helpful to have in Santorini, but it is not necessary. It’s easy to get around Santorini using their public bus service, which is cheap, comfortable, and reliable – especially if you’re staying in Fira, the central hub of the bus system. If you prefer renting a car in Santorini instead of relying on the bus, I recommend picking it up at the airport, even if you are arriving by ferry. There is a very limited number of taxis, and Uber is not available on Santorini, so private transport from the Santorini airport or ferry port is best arranged in advance through your hotel or through Welcome Pickups car service. There will always be a public bus to meet all arriving ferries. Buses in Santorini are comfortable, cheap, and have plenty of room for luggage.

Where should I stay in Santorini?

The best places to stay in Santorini are along the caldera in the villages of Fira, Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani. These towns have incredible views of the volcano, sea, and sunset. All of these towns are on the west side of Santorini.

What are the best things to do in Santorini?

The best things to do on Santorini include hiking the incredible caldera footpath, touring wineries, doing a boat tour of the caldera (with volcano hike/hot spring swimming/sunset), and visiting the island’s small charming villages. There is a vibrant nightlife with everything from wine bars to dance clubs but it’s never rowdy and the club scene is easily avoided if you’re not interested. The view of the volcano and Skaros Rock from the amazing Astra Suites Hotel in Imerovigli. How was Santorini created? Santorini is what remains from a massive volcanic eruption 3600 years ago. The eruption destroyed all settlements and created the caldera. The caldera is a lagoon of seawater surrounded on 3 sides by the steep cliffs of Santorini and on the 4th side by the island of Thirassia (which was part of Santorini before the eruption). The current volcano (on the island of Nea Kameni) sits in the middle of the caldera. It’s active but presently not at risk of erupting. This is a good video on the Santorini volcano .

How many days should I spend in Santorini?

Stay a minimum of 2 days and 2 nights. But there’s so much to see and do that it’s easy to fill 5 to 7 days. If possible, do one boat tour , one wine tour , hike the Fira to Oia footpath , explore the villages of Pyrgos and Emporio, and visit the historical sites of Akrotiri and Ancient Thera. You’ll also want plenty of time to wander the cobblestoned lanes and alleys of Fira, Oia, and Imerovigli. Then there’s nightlife and all the great places to eat on Santorini . Santorini does not have the best beaches in Greece – they’re mostly pebble beaches – but the swimming is divine. What currency is used in Santorini? Greece is part of the European Union, so the currency used in Santorini is the Euro (€). Most shops and restaurants on Santorini accept credit cards, but it is a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases like bottled water and snacks. ATMs are easy to find in all of Santorini’s main towns.

Most restaurants in Santorini, like Marinera in Fira, accept credit cards.

Is Santorini expensive? Santorini is known for 5-star luxury hotels, great restaurants, and high-end shopping but it’s easy to visit Santorini on a modest budget. There are no all-inclusive resorts on Santorini so the key to saving money is to choose hotels and restaurants not directly on the caldera. Enjoying the incredible views is free and cheap hotels in Santorini are plentiful, good value, and good quality. Watch a movie overlooking the caldera at Volkan Cinema in Fira. But for the best movie experience in Santorini head to the Kamari Open Air Cinema . What towns and hotels have the best caldera views? The towns of Fira , Firostefani , Imerovigli , Oia , and Akrotiri are perched on the Santorini cliff and offer incredible views of the caldera and volcano. Not all hotels in these towns have caldera views but many do and the ones that don’t are a short walk (sometimes just steps) from the caldera’s edge, so staying at a caldera hotel isn’t necessary to enjoy the views. Each town offers a unique perspective and there isn’t any one town with the absolute best views. Imerovigli generally has the best sunset views but even this is open to debate and each of the caldera villages has a reasonable claim to having the island’s best views.

The Honeymoon Suite at Athina Luxury Suites in Fira.

• Athens Travel Guide
• Crete Travel Guide
• Halkidiki Travel Guide
• Mainland Greece Travel Guide
• Mykonos Travel Guide
• Naxos Travel Guide
• Paros Travel Guide
• Santorini Travel Guide
• Greece – What to Know Before You Go
• Complete Greece Travel Guide
• Complete Italy Travel Guide

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Exploring Greece and Its Islands

About this tour.

Discover the magnificent ruins of ancient Greece and bask in the brilliance of the Mediterranean. This comprehensive journey explores Greece's most important ancient monuments, including the famed Temple of Zeus, the archaeological site of Olympia and ancient artifacts of Delphi. Explore Athens on a comprehensive tour of the incredible Acropolis. Visit a local farm in the countryside to see how olive oil and wine are produced. Learn how to cook traditional Mediterranean cuisine during a cooking demonstration. Wander the winding streets, vineyards, marketplaces and beaches of Mykonos and Santorini. Explore the excavations of the ancient city at Akrotiri, the most important prehistoric settlement found anywhere in the Eastern Mediterranean. Learn the history of this fascinating country from local experts on guided tours of Athens, Meteora, Delphi, and Olympia. Throughout your journey, experience the iconic sights of Greece's Classical age with ample time to explore on your own.

Your Tour Includes

• 8 Handpicked Accommodations
• 2 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• The Acropolis

Your Tour at a Glance

14 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Best time for travel, on tour air, customize your tour.

$1,199.00 pp

Optional Excursions

Starting at $95.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Best time for travel exploring greece and its islands featuring classical greece, mykonos & santorini.

While just about any month is great to visit Greece, there are a few prime times of the year for the Exploring Greece and Its Islands tour. Here are some recommendations from our destination experts.

Spring: Santorini, Mykonos, and other Greek islands open to tourists in mid- to late April. While the weather is mild, most find the beaches are still chilly for swimming or sunbathing. Minimal crowds yield maximum photo opportunities.

Summer: July and August in Greece are hot! (In extreme heat, it’s possible for the Acropolis to be closed during the hottest hours of the day to protect workers and visitors.) During the summer season, tours only run in early July and late August, when temperatures aren’t as extreme. It’s during these months when many Greeks and other Europeans vacation here, too, making it a busy time to visit.

Fall: With kids back to school, September and October are great times to go on tour. Greece remains very busy, as the tourist season on Santorini and Mykonos extends into October, and the water temperatures offer perfect swimming conditions. There may still be crowds at the Acropolis and other popular sites along the way.

On Tour Air Included

• The cost of all internal flights on tour or within an extension are included into the total tour cost on our website and brochures.
• Purchasing internal flights through Collette is now required on tours where applicable.
• This price continues to exclude all round-trip air getting to and from the tour, as well as any additional air segments required to arrive at or depart from an extension.
• The cost displayed is based on availability at the time of booking.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

• Explore Mykonos, the whitewashed jewel of the Cyclades Islands, at your leisure.
• Join a local expert to explore Athens and its famed sites.
• Explore the grandeur of Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games.

Cultural Experiences:

• Come to know two breathtaking Byzantine monasteries in Metéora, built over 600 years ago.
• Experience the Delphi Museum with its priceless collection of ancient artifacts.
• Broaden your knowledge of traditional Greek music with a delightful Greek dance class.

Culinary Inclusions:

• Taste olive oil and homemade jams at a local farm in the Peloponnese countryside.
• Partake in a Mediterranean cooking experience followed by a traditional Greek lunch.
• Sample the finest wines in Greece during a winery tour in Santorini.
• Greek Farm Visit
• Greek Dance Class
• Cooking Class
• Choice on Tour: Mycenae or Nafplio
• Ancient Akrotiri

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* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

Pre and Post Tour Extensions

• Choice On Tour

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Today you have the choice between 2 activities. Your first option is to visit ancient Mycenae, an archaic city once ruled by mythological King Agamemnon, commander-in-chief of the Greeks during the Trojan War. Explore the excavations during a guided visit featuring the Beehive Tombs and the Lion Gate. Your second choice is to linger in Nafplio, and join a walking tour of Greece’s first capital city. During your tour, enjoy views of the island fortress of Bourtzi, which the Venetians fortified in the 17th century to protect the town’s harbor. Nafplio’s mix of Venetian and Neo-classical architectural influences make it Greece’s most elegant city.

Begin your trip with a 3-night sojourn in the Eternal City. Toast to your Roman getaway with a welcome dinner in a local restaurant. See the city with an expert guide, including an in-depth tour of the Colosseum. Enjoy ample free time to explore Rome's charms or join an optional tour to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica.Your other option is to book a pre stay?

• Overnight Flight
• Travel to the eternal city of Rome.
• Get settled into Rome for your 3-night stay. Take time to get acquainted with the area on your own. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner featuring regional delicacies.
• Start your morning with a locally guided tour of Classical Rome. Discover the city’s famous sights such as the legendary Aventine and Palatine Hills, the ancient Circus Maximus, and the Arch of Constantine. During an in-depth visit to the Colosseum, your guide recounts its rich history. The remainder of the day is yours. Perhaps you will join an optional dinner in a popular restaurant, where you’ll indulge in a hearty meal accompanied by wine and local entertainment.
• Make the most of a free day in Italy’s capital city. Perhaps you will join an optional tour* to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica, taking in world-renowned wonders such as the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo’s mural of the Last Judgment. In the afternoon, consider strolling through the Borghese Gardens for views of the city’s skyline or meander through Rome’s bohemian Trastevere district.
• Rome - Athens

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.

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.

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)

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)

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)

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 — 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.

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.

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

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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!

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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)

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

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

Santorini Secrets

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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.

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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.

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

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The Greek Islands: Crete & Santorini

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Feel good about putting a tour on the calendar today: Enroll in AutoPay or pay in full when you book, and if you change your mind,  you’ll get your money back .†

Get the full Greek experience: scrapbook scenery, fantastic food, and sweet, sweet sunshine.

No matter how you cut it, the Greek islands are a multifaceted paradise, and after admiring their gleaming highlights, you’ll be left craving more. Begin your tour in Athens, a city that needs no introduction, before journeying to Crete. Here, on the largest of Greece’s islands, you’ll marvel at the Venetian handiwork of charming Chania’s harbor; walk among vestiges of the Bronze Age Minoans in Heraklion; and discover the joys of Cretan cuisine through olive oil, wine, and other local delights. Then, you’ll head to Santorini—painted in those famous flashes of white and blue—for some seaside R & R. Go for a walk, a swim, or a sail, taking in its volcanic terrain from all angles. And if you’re interested in capping your trip with a mythical twist, add the extension to Delphi. (Maybe you’ll catch the oracle’s whispers riding the wind.)

Your tour package includes

• 8 nights in handpicked hotels
• 8 breakfasts
• 3 dinners with beer or wine
• 4 sightseeing tours

Included highlights

• Temple of Zeus
• Venetian port of Chania
• Palace of Knossos

An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

Day-by-day itinerary

Board your overnight flight to Athens today.

Welcome to Greece! Meet your Tour Director at the airport and transfer with them to your hotel, where you’ll get to know your fellow travelers over a welcome dinner served with your choice of beer or wine.

Meet up with a local guide for an introduction to Greece’s bustling capital, home to the world’s first democracy and over 3,400 years of recorded history.

• Pass by three points of interest: the Panathenaic Stadium, Syntagma Square, and the Arch of Hadrian. Now home to various local soccer teams, the Panathenaic Stadium, built entirely out of marble—the only such stadium in the world. Syntagma Square memorializes the signing of the first Greek constitution in 1844, following an armed rebellion against the rule of King Otto. Carved from marble and standing since the second century, the Arch of Hadrian is an iconic landmark of modern-day Athens.
• View the ruins of the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Built less than a kilometer from the Acropolis, this structure dates back to the sixth century B.C. and, when intact, was the largest temple in Ancient Greece.
• See the classically inspired Old Royal Palace, home of the Hellenic Parliament, and drive through Plaka—the historic “neighborhood of the gods” built in the shadow of the Acropolis.
• Set off on a walking tour around the Acropolis of Athens, a millennia-old, UNESCO-listed citadel and the enduring image of Greece. First properly developed by the renowned politician Pericles, it now contains the ruins of the Parthenon, Temple of Athena Nike, Erechtheion, and dozens of other archaeological sites.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Athens or add an excursion.

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Fly to Chania, a coastal city on Crete’s northwestern shore that has passed between Greek, Venetian, and Ottoman hands through the centuries. After settling into your hotel, join your group in the evening for an included dinner, served with your choice of beer or wine.

This morning, join a local guide on a walking tour of Chania’s Old Town, a historic quarter especially tinged by its Venetian heritage.

• Step inside Trimartiri—a Greek Orthodox cathedral dedicated to the Virgin Mary—before visiting Etz Hayyim. The only synagogue on the island, this still-active place of worship is a symbol of the city’s age-old Jewish community.
• Walk along the Old Venetian Port of Chania, a harbor that’s served the city since the mid-1300s. Catch a glimpse of its famous Egyptian lighthouse, and pass by the Yiali Tzami—a former Ottoman mosque, instantly recognizable by its main dome, that nowadays houses art exhibitions.

Please note: Etz Hayyim closes on Saturdays and Sundays

Enjoy a free afternoon in Chania or add an excursion.

Crete Olive Oil Tasting & Dinner

From $99 per person

Board your bus and cruise past Crete’s olive-covered landscapes en route to Heraklion—an ancient port town that was once the hub of the Minoans, Europe’s first civilization. Disembark and enjoy an included lunch before setting off on a guided tour.

• Visit the ruins of the Bronze Age palace of Knossos. Part administrative center, part place of worship, it held a special place at the heart of Minoan culture (and was where, according to the myth, King Minos imprisoned the Minotaur in the heart of a labyrinth).
• See the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, home of the world’s preeminent collection of Minoan art and many artifacts taken from the excavation of Knossos and other dig sites around Crete.

Board a ferry and chart a course across the Aegean Sea to Santorini, the crown jewel of the Cyclades islands. Built up by lava flows over thousands of years and irrevocably changed by a devastating eruption in 1,600 B.C., its rock-laden terrain and flooded caldera are a definitive example of the stark beauty of volcanic landscapes.

Upon arrival, enjoy free time to explore its cliffside villages, roam its rugged hills, or simply soak in its charming culture before settling into your accommodations.

Take in the sights of Santorini—a volcanic isle known for its black-sand beaches, cliff-lined shores, and stunning whitewashed architecture—on a guided tour.

• Visit the prehistoric settlements that were unearthed during the archaeological excavations at Akrotiri.
• Ride to the top of Mount Profitis Ilias for panoramic views of the whole island.
• Stop in small, picturesque Pyrgos, a well-preserved medieval village that’s situated on the island’s highest point and is latticed with steep, cobblestone alleys.

Spend a free afternoon in Santorini or add an excursion.

Santorini Caldera Cruise & Dinner

From $149 per person

Fly back to Athens, then celebrate your trip with your fellow group members over a farewell dinner, served with your choice of beer or wine.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home, or extend your stay a little longer. Mystical Delphi, legendary Marathon, the relaxing Athenian Riviera: You’d be in for three days well spent.

Make your way to the Delphi region via Arachova, a picturesque resort town over 3,000 feet up the southern slope of Mount Parnassus. Stroll through its charming cobblestone streets, marveling at Byzantine-era churches and mountainous landscapes that demand a picture.

Then, continue on to your hotel in the Delphi region and enjoy free time for the rest of the day.

Head back to the slopes of Mount Parnassus and visit the Archaeological Site of Delphi. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was once a sacred precinct, a spiritual focal point believed by the Ancient Greeks to be the “Navel of the Earth.”

• Embark on a guided tour of the area, capped by a visit to the Temple of Apollo. Here, according to legend, the god Apollo prophecized to mortals through the voice of the oracle and high priestess, Pythia
• Take time to explore the ancient treasures at the Delphi Museum, including the life-size bronze statue known as the  Charioteer of Delphi

Spend a free afternoon in the Delphi region or add an excursion.

Hosios Loukas & the Gulf of Corinth

From $79 per person

As you travel to the Athens Riviera, take in even more historic landmarks with a visit to the town of Marathon

• Learn about the Battle of Marathon. Waged on a nearby coastal plain in 490 BC, the clash marked a pivotal moment in the Greco-Persian Wars, when an outnumbered coalition of Athenians and Plataeans routed an invading Persian army.
• Enter the Tumulus of the Plataeans, a large burial mound where the fallen Plataean soldiers were laid to rest.

Continue on to your hotel on the Athens Riviera, then raise a farewell drink to your trip in the evening.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

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Hotels, flights & FAQ

This elegant hotel is located in the Metaxourgeio neighborhood of Athens. Guests enjoy panoramic views of the Acropolis, a fitness center, and a rooft...

This comfortable hotel is centrally located in Chania. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, and a bar. Nearby, you’ll find the Agora (a covered mark...

This luxe hotel is located in Heraklion on the island of Crete. Guests enjoy restaurants, the outdoor pool, and a spa. Nearby, you’ll find Lions Squar...

This sophisticated hotel is located in Kamari, a seaside village on Santorini. Guests enjoy an outdoor pool, views of the Aegean Sea, and a spa lounge...

This luxury hotel is located right in the heart of Athens. Guests enjoy a rooftop terrace, a fitness center, and free Wi-Fi. Nearby, you’ll find the M...

This modern hotel is located at the foot of Mount Parnassus in Delphi. Guests enjoy the outdoor pool, beautiful views, and manicured gardens. Nearby, ...

This seaside hotel is located east of Athens in the town of Brauron. Guests enjoy the private beach area, indoor and outdoor pools, and on-site coffee...

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
• Find out more about flights
• In order to enter Greece, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps.
• Beginning in 2025, U.S. and Canadian passport holders must register for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to enter many European countries.
• Passport holders from over 60 visa-exempt countries (including the U.S. and Canada) will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to visit 30 European countries. That means that even if you’ve previously traveled to any of these European countries without a visa, starting in 2025, you’ll need to get ETIAS authorization to visit them again. If you’re traveling to multiple countries with this requirement, you only need to complete the form once. All Go Ahead travelers are responsible for obtaining their own ETIAS travel authorization before departure. For more details, please visit our Help Center .
• If you’re not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code GIS.
• You’ll walk for at least 1.5 hours daily across uneven terrain, along paved roads and cobblestone streets, and up steep hills and stairs.
• You should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance. Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour.
• You should feel comfortable occasionally managing your own baggage, as well as getting in and out of ferries.
• Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide you with individualized mobility assistance: The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group as a whole enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and they can’t be relied upon to provide ongoing help to any one traveler.
• If you have any mobility concerns or physical restrictions, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in and depart from Athens. When you first arrive, a representative from Go Ahead Tours will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. If you don’t see them, please remain in the arrival lounge: They might be escorting one of your fellow travelers.
• Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who’ve purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchased their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost.
• Flights from Athens to Chania and from Santorini to Athens, as well as a ferry transfer from Heraklion to Santorini, are included in the price of your tour.
• All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
• Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches, ferries, flights, and other modes of transportation.
• Contact your airline(s) for the luggage restrictions for your itinerary. Please note that on-tour flights may have tighter size and weight limits than your round-trip airfare to and from tour.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any bags or exceed their size and weight restrictions. Be advised: You’re responsible for any luggage fees incurred on all flights.
• Porterage isn’t included on ferry transfer(s). You should be comfortable lifting and carrying your luggage over the boarding ramp and into the storage area.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on.
• We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• It’s preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs or shoulders. (You may be denied entrance on this basis.)
• At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your healthcare provider, or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website at cdc.gov , for the latest updates and entry requirements.
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour, as well as any possible delays you may encounter.
• Please note that codeine (commonly found in headache medications) is banned in Greece, and you may face prosecution if you bring it into the country.
• If you have any dietary restrictions or food allergies, please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging into your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please call our Customer Experience Team.
• Greece’s warm climate ensures a constant supply of fresh, high-quality fruits and vegetables. Salads served with aromatic olive oil, feta cheese, and oregano are plentiful, as are dishes centered on grilled fish, meat, squid, and octopus. One of our favorite plates? Spanakopita—a savory mix of spinach, cheese, and seasonings, wrapped in phyllo dough and baked to crisp perfection.
• Greece operates on the European standard of 220–240 volts and uses Type C, E, or F plugs with two small, round pins.
• We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or any device without one built in.
• The strength of the air conditioning in European hotels is often not as strong or cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada. When air conditioning is available, it’s usually regulated seasonally and controlled centrally by the hotel.
• Your hotels may provide hairdryers, irons, and other small appliances. However, these amenities can’t be guaranteed.
• Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
• There is no Wi-Fi on any of the motor coaches.
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• Greece is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and seven hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET).
• When it’s noon in New York, it’s 7pm in Greece.
• You’ll use the euro on this tour.
• Better exchange rates are usually available overseas, but it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
• We strongly advise that you take a debit card, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed. You can also use most cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
• International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
• We recommend tipping the equivalent of $10–$12USD per person, per day for your Tour Director, and the equivalent of $3USD per person, per day for your driver.
• If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• Most optional excursions will be available for purchase while you’re on tour.
• Your Tour Director will only accept cash (in USD only), Visa, or MasterCard as payment for optional excursions.
• Please be advised that if you pay for an excursion by credit card while on tour, it may take up to three months for it to be charged.
• Some optional excursions may only be purchased in advance. See the last page of your tour itinerary for more information.

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14 Best Islands In Greece For Your Dream Getaway

A re you after a tropical escape? The European country of Greece is known globally for its paradise islands, from famous Santorini to lesser-visited Kos.

Greece is home to 6,000 islands, of which 227 are inhabited islands. The abundant variety gives visitors a huge array of incredible vacation options. But which are the “best” islands in Greece? It is hard to pick just a few, but after 5 weeks in Greece this summer and multiple visits over the last years, I came up with my personal list of 14 Best Islands in Greece that are perfect each in their own way.

As I just returned from a fantastic 8-day Greek Island Cruise with Celestyal (the ultimate foodie cruise !), I got to experience several of these fantastic Greek Islands and some are still on my Greek Island bucket list.

Deciding which islands in Greece you’ll visit will depend on your tastes. Some may party the night away in Mykonos , while others learn the history of Crete, there’s no wrong choice.

In this article, you’ll find all the best Greek Islands for the perfect retreat.

The Best Islands In Greece

On the southern end of the Aegean Sea lies Greece’s most popular island, the lovely Santorini . Often a hit among honeymooners and couples looking for a romantic escape, this gem has a charm like nowhere else.

Many visitors flock to Santorini during summer months, between June and August. The island is extremely crowded this time of year, and the prices reflect so. Visiting in the off-season, November to March, will be colder but less expensive and quieter.

I liked Santorini a lot more than I thought. I thought the big crowds would ruin it. But I had the perfect day there. Once I got off the ship, I joined a small group winery tour, which was offered as part of the Celestyal Cruise “Authentic Excursions” program. We were 17 people on our tour and visited some lovely wineries. Afterwards, we were dropped off in Fira near the funicular. There were a lot of people, but once the other cruise ships left, it was so stunning and peaceful. Our ship did not leave until 1 AM, so we had plenty of time to explore, eat dinner, watch the sunset and experience a lot less crowded Santorini.

You could easily spend a week on the island without getting bored, it’s quite big. Plus, there are ample opportunities for a day trip to neighboring islands such as Chora or Anafi.

Santorini has plenty of exciting things to do to keep you entertained. Stroll through stunning towns like Akrotiri, dip in turquoise waters at the famous Red Beach, or dine at a top restaurant . You can even venture out to Santorini Volcano or browse the Museum of Prehistoric Thira.

Santorini Tours

Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs Visit – Sail out to the volcanic island near Santorini. During this trip you’ll dive into hot springs, and have the chance to discover Oia and Thirassia.

Island Highlights Half-Day Shore Excursion – See Santorni’s main sights in half a day, including Black Beach and Prophet Ilias.

Horseback Riding Experience in Volcanic Landscape – Trot on Eros Beach, through Megalochori Village, and stop at a vineyard on this fantastic 2 hour tour.

Santorini Hotels 

Firaxenia Rooms (budget) – Situated in the center of Fira, the Firaxenia Rooms is a gorgeous low cost hotel with clear views of the sea. Expect double rooms with balconies and a range of amenities.

Sunset Hotel (mid-range) – Looking out over the blue sea on the coast, a stay at the sunset hotel includes complimentary breakfast and hot tub access. Choose between double or twin rooms with Caldera views.

Amphitrite Suites Santorini (luxury) – Only 4 kilometers from the Archaeological Museum of Thera, this property has a huge pool, hot tub, and free breakfast. Each unit features a balcony, deluxe double beds, and kitchenette.

The beautiful island of Mykonos is a must-visit for party-goers and couples sitting between Paros, Syros, Naxos, and Tinos.

Rumored to have some of the best nightlife in all the Cyclades Islands, Mykonos is a top choice for those looking to let their hair down.

Five days is a nice amount of time to spend here. During this time, see the likes of Little Venice, Panagia Paraportiani, the windmills, Aegean Maritime Museum , and much more. If you’re not a fan of crowds, try to avoid Mykonos in summer.

I was very weary of the crowds in Mykonos as well, but as our ship left late again (2 AM this time), we got to experience Mykonos without the thousands of cruise ship tourists (other than the Celestyal passengers of course). This time, my niece and I signed up for an Authentic Excursions Food Tour and really enjoyed eating our way through Mykonos. Afterward, we strolled through the small town of Chora, visited the windmills, had dinner, and went people-watching at one of the many bars.

Be sure to check out Top Things To Do In Mykonos In One Day .

Mykonos Tours

Delos Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets – Seek out the archaeological sites and ancient monuments of Delos Island.

Winery Vineyard Experience with Food & Wine Tasting – Sample the best Greek wine, complimented by Mykonian appetizers at a local winery.

Sunset Sailing Cruise with Light Lunch & Drinks – Enjoy sunset with tasty Greek bites and your favorite beverages on a 4 hour cruise.

Mykonos Hotels

Villa Varnali Small Boutique (budget) – This property is located in Mykonos Town, 600 meters from Megali Ammos Beach. It offers double bed guest rooms with garden views, coffee, and air conditioning.

Harmony Boutique Hotel (mid-range) – Harmony Boutique Hotel is located next to the Old Port of Mykonos. It showcases stylish guest rooms with private balconies and complimentary breakfast.

Melangal (luxury) – This luxury oasis is steps away from Mykonos Town. The rooms follow a minimalistic design, with double beds, Cocomat mattresses, and kitchenette.

Resting in the Ionian Sea, off the southwest coast of mainland Greece, is Zakynthos. This is another destination with a reputation for being a party animal’s heaven. The reputation is mainly because of Laganas Strip, lined with bustling bars and clubs open all hours and the loggerhead turtle nesting ground on Zakynthos.

Five or six days is a nice amount of time to spend on Zakynthos. This will allow you to explore the island’s main sights. Some of which include Shipwreck Beach, the Venetian Castle, the Cliffs of Keri, and Porto Limnionas. 

My husband and I spent a few days here on our road trip around the Peloponnese and really enjoyed our stay. We took it easy and spent one day on a tour around the island, showing us the main sights like Shipwreck Beach, sulfur hot springs, and a winery/olive farm. The rest of our time was spent relaxing, wandering through town, eating and drinking wine, and getting massages. Total bliss.

Zakynthos Tours

Navagio Shipwreck Beach & Blue Caves Tour – See the main sights of northern Zakynthos, including Navagio Shipwreck Beach and Blue Caves.

Zakynthos Water Park Entrance Ticket – Hit the island’s waterpark for a day of thrills.

Off-Road Buggy Adventure in Zakynthos with Lunch – Ride around Zakynthos on a Polaris buggy for the day. A Greek lunch is included.

Zakynthos Hotels

Eora Studios (budget) – Only 2 kilometers from Pure Beach Club is Eora Studios. These standard studios leave nothing to be desired with a terrace, kitchenette, and welcome basket full of goodies.

Villa Xenos (mid-range) – This self-catering property is 1.5 kilometers from Kalamáki Beach. It features a patio, garden with BBQ, and a furnished balcony.

Horizon Luxury Suite (luxury) – This two bedroom apartment has a pool, a bar, and seaside views. Additionally, it’s only 1.1 km from Agios Nikolaos Beach.

Andros is the northernmost island of the Cyclades, only a 2-hour ferry ride from Athens. Tourists who wish to avoid crowds and have a relaxing getaway will love it here.

I spent five days on Andros and loved it so much. It quickly has become one of my favorite Greek islands.

Andros sees many outdoor enthusiasts looking for natural beauty rather than beach clubs and nightlife. The island is still relatively unknown to foreigners, so you’ll get a very authentic Greek Island experience.

You could spend anywhere from a couple days or weeks on Andros. You won’t be bored, there’s so much to do. From outstanding hiking trails like Menites Village Circular Routes or hiking to the stunning Gerolimni Waterfall, you’ll have no problem filling your time.

For more, head over to Andros Greece: Fall in Love With This Little-Known Greek Island .

Andros Tours

Achla River Trekking to Waterfall – Go with a local to see the Gerolimni Waterfall and swim in the nearby streamlets.

Small-Group, Half-Day Guided Tour – Discover some of the island’s sacred sights and secret locations within 4 hours.

5-Hour Andros Monasteries Tour – Head off on an adventure to see three monasteries: Aghia Marina, Aghia Irene, and Aghios Nikolaos.

Andros Hotels

Anemomiloi Studios (mid-range) – 15 minute stroll from Paraporti Beach, Anemomiloi Studios offers studio-style rooms with kitchenette, LCD TV, and sofa.

Castel Abaso Boutique Apartments (mid-range) – 3 minutes from Paraporti Beach is Castel Abaso Boutique Apartments. Stay in a 60 m² one bedroom apartment with kitchenette and town views.

Aristocratic Suite in the Heart of Andros Town (luxury) – 300 meters from Neimporio Beach, this 2 bedroom king suite apartment is like a palace. It has a kitchenette, bathroom with complimentary toiletries, and large double beds with bespoke linens.

The alluring Paros Island is centrally located in the Aegean Sea. It’s famed for a relaxed atmosphere, golden sandy beaches, chic cocktail bars, and lavish boutique hotels.

Couples in particular love Paros. This is because of the intimate vibe you’ll notice as soon as you disembark the ferry.

Give yourself five nights on Paros. This will allow you to check out sights such as Panagia Ekatontapiliani, picturesque villages like Naousa, and outdoor ventures like the Butterfly Valley. Paros gets extremely busy during the summer months, like many Greek Islands, but it’s still well worth a visit.

Paros Tours

Full-Day Sailing Yacht Cruise – Cruise out to the neighboring island’s beaches for snorkeling. All while learning how to sail.

Iraklia & Schinoussa Sailing Cruise with Lunch – Sail to Iraklia and Schinoussa, indulge in a Greek lunch, and swim in crystal clear waters.

Kayak trip with Snorkeling & Snack or Picnic – Grab a kayak and hit the open seas on this tour. After, enjoy a freshly prepared picnic.

Paros Hotels

Irini Rooms (budget) – Placed in Náousa, only 200 meters from the Venetian Castle and Harbour, is Irini Rooms. Every guest space here has a private bathroom, flatscreen TV, and seascapes.

Apollon Boutique Hotel (mid-range) – This is a 3 star hotel in Parikia Center with free parking and beautifully appointed guest rooms featuring contemporary bathrooms.

Eleana Studios (luxury) – Tucked away in Abelas, you can book a lavish studio here. Rooms include a balcony, coffee machine, wide-screen TV, and garden views.

Sometimes seen as Paro’s little brother, Antiparos resides next to aforementioned island. It attracts those searching for a gem off the beaten path.

This small island is limited to few properties, but features an abundance of exciting things to see. Some top attractions include Antiparos Castle , Sifneiko Beach, and Antiparos Cave. 

Since the island is quite small, three to four days is plenty of time here.

Antiparos Tours

Full-Day Sailing Trip with Lunch & Drinks – Sail off the coast of Antiparos to locate mesmerizing sea caves and the Temple of Apollo.

Catamaran Cruise with Swimming, Meal, and Drinks – Cruise to five different locations around the island for 9 hours. Food and drink are included.

Private Helicopter Transfer to Greek Islands – Fly to another Greek Island in style. From Santorini to Mykonos, the options are endless.

Antiparos Hotels

Eleni’s Rooms (budget) – Situated in the main center of Antiparos Town, every room at this budget hotel comes with TV, air conditioning, private bathroom, terrace, and washing room. Everything you need for a cozy stay.

Grego’s house (mid-range) – This property is 1.7 kilometers from Psaraliki Beach. It’s a delightful one bedroom holiday home with a kitchenette and living room. 

Lagadia Village (luxury) – This is a majestic one bedroom house with seaside views and a huge balcony. Best of all, it’s just 1.1 km from Fragopapades Beach.

Crete sits in the Mediterranean Sea and is the largest of the Greek Islands, not to mention one of the cheapest.

It’s known for rich heritage as home to ancient civilizations, such as the Bronze Age and Minoan at the Palace of Knossos . It’s a history buffs’ playground.

Crete is hugely popular among families, mainly because there’s something for everyone. Outdoorsy people will love the hike to Samaria Gorge, wine lovers can tour a vineyard, and kids will adore the Amazonas Wildlife Park.

Crete Tours

Knossos Palace Skip-the-Line Guided Walking Tour – Don’t wait in line with the Skip-the-line guided tour and visit the historic ruins of the Palace of Knossos with this small group tour.

Half-Day Quad Bike Safari – Ride through the mountains of Crete on a high powered ATV for 4 hours.

Full-Day Samaria Gorge Trek Excursion – Take on a demanding hike to see the Samaria Gorge, a 12 hour excursion.

Full-Day Trip to Gramvoussa Island & Balos Lagoon – Head off to see Gramvoussa Island and Balos Lagoon. The tour includes stops for swimming and castle spotting.

Crete Hotels

Kastro Hotel (budget) – Offering a convenient location, 100 meters from the town center, is Kastro Hotel. The property has freshly planned guest rooms with LCD TVs and mini-fridges.

Samaria By The Sea (mid-range) – On the Chora Sfakion shoreline, Samaria By The Sea provides air-conditioned units with mountain views.

GDM Megaron, Historical Monument Hotel (luxury) – In the center of Heraklion, this hotel showcases 58 extravagant guest spaces. They even have a dreamy rooftop plunge pool.

Positioned in the Argo-Saronic Gulf, Hydra is a tiny island just short ferry ride from Athens. This makes it one of the most visited out of the Saronic Islands and is usually visited as a day-trip from Athens.

This little gem is an ideal getaway if you’re visiting Athens and want to check out an island, but only have a little time.

Enjoy a few days wandering the quaint alleys of Hydra Town, checking out Hydra Harbor, and climbing Mount Eros.

Hydra Tours

Hydra, Poros and Egina Day Cruise from Athens with Optional VIP Upgrade – Enjoy this great luxury Greek island hopping trip from Athens to Hydra, Poros, and Egina and enjoy a beautiful boat excursion.

Hydra Hotels

Filenia (budget) – Only 150 meters from Hydra Port, this beauty boasts bright rooms and a garden patio.

Kirki Hydra (mid-range) – This is a family run guesthouse 50 meters from Hydra Port, surrounded by colorful flowers. The property provides fancy rooms overlooking town.

Onar Hydra (luxury) – This high end property has rooms with private terraces, free Wifi, and deluxe double beds with sea views. Additionally, it’s only 600 meters from Avlaki Beach.

Thassos is the Aegean Sea’s northmost island, celebrated for glorious beaches, unique tasting wine, and interesting historical sites like Aliki Archaeological Site. Thassos isn’t as well known compared to other islands in the Aegean Sea, which makes it great for a quieter getaway.

There are enough things to do to keep you occupied for a week in Thassos. Use up a day to lounge on Paradise Beach, dive into the Giola Lagoon, or learn something new at Sotirelis Olive Oil Museum .

Thassos Tours

Island Discovery Tour – Get to know the island by taking a 7 hour tour. Along the way you’ll see sacred villages, churches, landmarks, and more.

Full-Day Cruise with Light BBQ & Wine – See the island from a different perspective with a delicious spread of food, Greek wine included.

Jeep Safari in Thassos Mountain – Venture up to the highest mountain in Thassos in a 4×4. All while stopping at waterfalls, forests, and more.

Thassos Hotels

Endless View Villa (budget) – 100 meters from Limenaria Beach, the studio style rooms at this property feature sea views, double beds, and a kitchenette.

Macedon (mid-range) – Peacefully set in Thassos Town, this hotel has an outdoor pool, garden, playground for kids, and 20 m² guest rooms for four guests.

Olive Garden Villas & Apartments (luxury) – 250 meters from Golden Beach, the property offers magnificent two bedroom villas with sea views.

Kos is a part of the Dodecanese Archipelago, which lies east of the mainland. Adored for ancient attractions like the Castle of the Knights, beaches such as Mastichari Beach, and incredibly fun water parks including Lido.

Kos appeals to all kinds of travelers. Kardamena has a thriving nightlife scene, Tigaki is the place for families, and Lambi lures beach lovers.

No matter your interests, you could easily spend a week enjoying this charming island.

Full-day Boat Cruise to 3 Islands – Sail to three nearby islands with enchanting villages, sample tasty food, and sip crafty cocktails.

Scuba Diving from the Beach with Pickup – Dive deep underwater to spot marine wildlife in the Aegean Sea.

Water Park Entry Ticket & Optional Transfer – Enjoy a full day at Kos’s top water park, transfer included.

SunBeam (budget) – SunBean is a striking seafront property only 1 kilometer from Kardamena Beach. The hotel has an outdoor pool, bar, and patio.

Ta Spitakia (mid-range) – 3 kilometers from Kos Town, this two bedroom house offers breathtaking garden views, a spacious terrace, and a kitchenette.

Blue Wave (luxury) – Placed in Kefalos, 30 meters from the beach, Blue Wave offers a comfortable triple room house with balcony overlooking the Aegean Sea.

Kefalonia is like something you would see on a postcard.

This is the biggest of the Ionian Islands, across the Gulf of Corinth, next to Zakynthos. Sunny summers in Kefalonia draw families and groups from all over the world to see the Melissani Cave, Fiscardo Harbor, Myrtos Beach, and much more.

Kefalonia is pretty big and there’s so much to see and do. It’s not uncommon for people to spend up to two weeks here.

Kefalonia Tours

Excursion to Melissani & Drogarati Caves – Take a boat to see ravishing Melissani Lake Cave and Drogarati Cave.

Road Trip to Myrtos Beach, Assos, Fiskardo – Head off on a road trip to see the villages of Fiskardo and Assos. Then go for a plunge at Myrtos Beach.

Island Bus Tour with Wine Tasting – Hit up one of the island’s best wineries for a tasting experience with additional stops at Melissani Cave, Drogarati Cave, and Fiscardo Village.

Kefalonia Hotels

Tourist Boutique Hotel (budget) – Sitting on the oceanside, the Tourist Boutique Hotel offers budget, single, double, and triple rooms beside Lithostroto.

Sofitaki (mid-range) – Just 2.1 kilometers from Crocodile Beach, Sofitaki offers modernly furnished one bedroom apartments. Each with private balconies and mountain views.

Ionian Plaza Hotel (luxury) – Three minutes from the Archaeological Museum of Argostoli, this property offers chic double rooms with balconies. They even provide guests with a bar and lounge area for relaxing.

The largest of the Dodecanese Islands, Rhodes , has been a hit with families and cruisers over the years. Especially so from March through November.

Rhodes sits southeast of Athens, in fact, it’s actually near Turkey. So day trips to coastal cities such as Bodrum are pretty common.

I visited Rhodes on my 3-Continent Cruise with Celestyal a few years ago and loved it.

Visitors to Rhodes will relish ancient sites like the Acropolis of Lindos , historic UNESCO Heritage Old Town, and Palace of the Grand Master.

Rhodes Tours

Sunset Cruise with Greek BBQ & Unlimited Drinks – Watch the sun go down with a scrumptious BBQ, including bottomless drinks, on a huge wooden boat.

Pirates’ Route Sea Kayaking Tour – Grab your paddle and set off on the famous Pirate’s Route through fascinating rock formations.

4×4 Polaris Buggy Off-Road Adventure – Feel the adrenaline as you race up some of the island’s best viewpoints on your own 4×4 Polaris buggy.

Rhodes Hotels

George Beach Studios (budget) – Placed nicely in Pefkos Village, enjoy a deluxe suite with sea views, a kitchenette, and free parking.

Lindos Esel Suites (mid-range) – Only 600 meters from Agios Pavlos Beach, the Lindos Esel Suites has a range of room options with complimentary breakfast each morning.

10GR Boutique Hotel & Wine Bar (luxury) – Right in the center of Rhodes Town, this property showcases complete stone styled rooms with ample amenities, including a fancy wine bar.

Naxos is a wonderful family-friendly getaway lying in the midst of the Aegean Sea.

The island is part of the Cycladic Island group, filled with a selection of picture-perfect beaches, including Plaka Beach. Couple that with dreamy restaurants around Chora, and an interesting past — evident through sights such as Portora and the ruins of Apano Kastro — and you’ve got yourself an exciting island destination.

A trip to Naxos is usually combined with a visit to neighboring Paros. It takes around eight to ten days to thoroughly enjoy both destinations.

Naxos Tours

Catamaran Cruise & Snorkeling with Lunch & Drinks – Sail for 8 hours across the high Aegean Seas with lots of stops throughout for snorkeling and marine life spotting.

Highlight Bus Tour with Swim Stop at Apollonas – Stuck for time? Fit in the island’s main sights on this 8 hour bus tour, including stops at famous landmarks and villages.

Naxos Castle Walking Tour & Sunset at the Portara – Hear the fascinating stories about Naxos Castle from a local guide on this 3 hour walking tour.

Naxos Hotels

3 Wishes (budget) – 1.1 kilometers from Agios Georgios Beach, 3 Wishes presents superior guest rooms for an affordable price. All with plenty of amenities, such as modern private bathrooms and fully stocked kitchenettes.

Hotel Grotta (mid-range) – Looking out over Naxos Town, Hotel Grotta offers guests extravagant guest rooms, a private pool, and a yummy breakfast every morning.

Mariet Naxos Spa & Suites (luxury) – 600 meters from Portara, Mariet Naxos Spa & Suites features deluxe king rooms with access to a Turkish bath and hot tub.

Our last Greek Island is heavenly Milos. It’s located just north of Crete and is the southwesternmost island of the Cyclades.

The volcanic island has a laid-back vibe, but it’s not so sleepy you’ll end up bored after a few days. It is known for the stunning turquoise waters and water based activities.

On our cruise stop, we were a little unlucky with the weather, but we still got to go on our kayaking tour and it was so much fun.

More than likely, you’ll end up staying around the capital, Plaka. Here you’ll be conveniently located near jaw-dropping Panagia Thalassitra, the Archaeological Museum of Milos, and the lovely little village of Tripiti.

It’s easy to understand why this is considered a top island in Greece.

Milos Tours

Guided Day Cruise to Kleftiko With Lunch – Venture out to sea to discover the volcanic coast, snorkeling, and lots of eating.

Archaeology & Culture Tour – See the archaeological and cultural sides of Milos on this 4 hour tour. Stops include cute fishing villages and notable monuments.

Guided Kayaking Trip with Snorkelling & Lunch – Embark on your own kayak through sea caves and stop at some of the island’s coolest snorkeling spots. Highly recommend this one!!!

Milos Hotels

Sarantis Apartments (budget) – Enjoy a night in an elegantly furnished economy double room with mountain views located in Provatas, just 1.4 kilometers from the beach.

Anastasia’s Windmill (mid-range) – Stay in a renovated windmill from the 1860s in Plaka. The property includes a fully stocked kitchen and dining room.

Fani Dream Suite (luxury) – Right on Kapros Beach, Fani Dream Suites offers 53 m² deluxe king studios with fishing access and car rentals onsite.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our list of the best islands in Greece.

There are so many to choose from, and you don’t have to stick to one for the whole trip. Island hopping is more accessible than ever, thanks to the country’s huge ferry network connecting all the islands.

Forget Mykonos and Santorini, Syros is the best Greek island. Here are 10 of my favorite things to do there.

• Syros, a short ferry ride from Mykonos, is a luxurious and underrated island to visit in Greece .
• I visit every year , and love spending the day at a beach club and seeing a show at Apollon Theater.
• Belle Époque, Theosis, and Allou Yialou are some of the best places to eat and drink on the island.

Tourists flock to the Greek islands of Mykonos and Santorini every summer. But people are finally starting to catch on to the fact that many popular destinations are overpriced and overcrowded.

Luckily, Greece has over 220 inhabited islands to explore — and just a short ferry ride from Mykonos lies Syros.

My grandmother is from the island, and I visit it every year. It's one of the most underrated and luxurious destinations in Greece.

Here are 10 of my favorite things to do on Syros.

Grab a coffee at Belle Époque in Miaouli Square.

One of Syros' most prominent landmarks is Miaouli Square, located just a few steps away from the harbor in the main city of Ermoupoli.

It's a great place to start exploring the island — people of all ages gather to chat and catch up, kids play, and teens socialize on the steps of the town hall.

I love sitting in one of the many cafés around the plaza, like Belle Époque, and enjoying pastries and Greek coffee while I watch the town go by.

Take a dip at Ciel Syros.

Ciel Syros is a beach bar located near the picturesque neighborhood of Vaporia. But there's no sand there — you can eat and drink on a promenade over the water and dive directly into the sea.

The water here is a beautiful, deep, clear blue, but there are no shallows, so it's only recommended for strong swimmers.

You may occasionally get sprayed by waves while enjoying your drinks, but the atmosphere is always fun, especially on summer afternoons when there are endless parties with Greek music.

Window shop in the streets of Ano Syros.

If you can manage all the steps, walking uphill to Ano Syros from Ermoupoli is a treat.

You'll find a lot of craft, jewelry, clothing, and other shops, as well as cute cafés to explore in this part of the island.

Make sure to arrive in the morning or late afternoon as many stores close for a bit around midday.

Get a cocktail at Theosis.

Theosis Bar is a newer addition to Ano Syros. It's o wned by the same man who operates Kouchico — one of the best cocktail bars in Ermoupoli — and serves carefully curated and crafted drinks.

Instead of tables, people sit around a pedestrianized square on stairs and cushions, making the upscale atmosphere feel more casual and less stuffy.

Catch a show at the Apollon Theater.

Designed as a miniature version of the La Scala opera house in Milan, Apollon Theater hosts shows and performances on the island.

It's also one of the many reasons Syros is considered an island of the arts. Each year, the venue hosts multiple events, including an international film festival .

Spend the day lounging at Ono Concept beach club.

Agathopes Beach has always been popular with families and tourists thanks to its clear, shallow water and golden sand.

With the addition of the elegant Ono Concept beach club, which opened a few years ago, beachgoers can tan on luxurious lounge chairs while enjoying food, coffee, and cocktails.

Tour Chatzakis Winery.

In the northern part of the island, where few tourists (or even locals) venture, there's an amazing winery with a stunning view .

I recommend touring the Chatzakis facility in the evenings. Guests can sample the wines alongside charcuterie and snacks while enjoying a mesmerizing Greek sunset.

Enjoy dinner and a sunset at Allou Yialou.

Syros has become well known for its gastronomy, and Allou Yialou at Kini Beach is one of the best upscale taverna experiences.

Indulge in classic Greek family-style dining featuring plenty of seafood. You can also catch a stunning sunset here as the restaurant faces west.

Stay at one of many converted neoclassical houses.

The architecture in the streets of Ermoupoli is more reminiscent of Venice than the other Greek islands .

Syros has always been known as a very aristocratic island, and some of its old, pastel-colored neoclassical houses have been renovated into boutique hotels.

Check out Aristede Hotel, Villa Selena, or Arion for historic and luxurious accommodations with incredible hospitality.

Go to Loukoumia Leivadaras to try one of the island's specialty sweets.

Syros is famous for its loukoumia, the Greek version of Turkish delight .

The treat is available at many shops across the island, but Loukoumia Leivadaras is one of the most highly rated.

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