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3 Days in Santorini: Dream Itinerary for First-time Visitors (2024)

Santorini, Greece has to be one of the most romantic places in the world. Smooth, sparkling white houses baked into the side of cliffs, overlooking a crescent-shaped bay. Plus world-famous sunsets, ideally observed from your private jacuzzi with a glass of wine in hand.

On my first trip to Santorini, I was neighbors with a guy from Germany who’d been making an annual pilgrimage Santorni for over 40 years . At one point, he just decided to stick around and make the move permanent.

Honestly, I get it.

Santorini exceeded my expectations in every way – which is saying something as a seasoned traveler. This Santorini itinerary is the absolute best of this legendary island, packed into three days that balance adventure with leisure.

But the real questions you’re asking yourself at this very moment are probably:

• When’s the best time to visit Santorini during the year?
• Where should I stay in Santorni? Do I need to rent a car?
• How can I make sure I’m in the best spot for sunset?
• And most importantly, how do I do all this without going broke?

So let’s start with logistics before getting to the Santorini itinerary. If you’ve already researched how you’ll be getting here, where to stay, and how to rent a car, click here to jump to the itinerary .

Trip summary

• Duration: 3 days
• Dates visited: Early October, nearly everything was still open but with seasonal closing dates towards the end of the month. It was still extremely hot and I got a sunburn!
• Recommended accommodation: We stayed in The Architect's Cave House and absolutely loved it. It had a sunset view, overlooking the Caldera, daily breakfast delivery, superb A/C, and a hot tub. 10/10, I will book it again on our next trip to Santorni.
• Where to eat: Metaxi Mas was excellent, just be sure to arrive right after it opens because it fills up very quickly.

P.S. The best part of our cave house was that it’s situated over Ammoudi Bay at just the right angle for sunset. So you can watch all the tourists crowding to get the exact same view we had from our hot tub.

Check availability for this cave house

Should you rent a car in Santorini?

Yes, you should rent a car in Santorni. First, Santorni is HOT, so you’ll want something with good air conditioning and shade from the sun. Renting ATVs is popular but I would not advise it because of the pure sun exposure.

I always book my rental cars on DiscoverCars and also recommend getting insurance if you’re traveling in a country like Greece.

IMPORTANT TIP — Do NOT go with Hertz located at the Fira port! Their office doesn’t exist anymore, we had a painful time picking up our car when we found the empty office. Either book Hertz from the Santorini airport, or Sixt from the Fira Port

Santorini Itinerary: 3 days in Santorini

With that, all your pre-trip planning for Santorini should be taken care of: choosing a base, booking accommodation, and reserving a rental car. Now it’s time to actually start this Santorini itinerary right!

Here’s where you’ll go over the course of three days. For each spot, I’ll include restaurant recommendations, navigation tips, and everything else you need 😄

• Day 1. Oia and Pyrgos
• Day 2. Akrotiri, Red Beach, Ancient Thera
• Day 3. Imerovigli, Firostefani, Santo Winery, and Fira

Day 1. Oia, Pyrgos

Today we’ll start and end the day in Oia, the crown jewel of Santorni. We’ll head to Pyrgos to wander around and have lunch. On the way back to Oia, be sure to stop at a supermarket to pick up food and bottled water (as you’re not recommended to drink the tap water in Santorni).

Sunrise in Oia

Assuming you’re based in Oia, wake up early for some incredible sunrises over the southern part of the town. The Byzantine Castle Ruins is the best location to see both parts of Oia illuminate as the sun rises, and is easy to reach by foot from most of the town.

In our experience, the sunrises were often more spectacular than sunset. The reason is, the heat in Santorini can cause haze over the sea. Since mornings are cooler, that haze is gone and the colors are much more vivid.

Beautiful, right? The only thing you need to be careful of is that early morning is when all the donkeys assist with deliveries, so you’ll want to watch for droppings. It’s not excessive though, just watch your step 😉

These photos were taken between 6:00 AM and 6:30 AM in October, so the time you need to wake up isn’t unreasonable at all. We took photos for quite a while, before heading back to our cave house for breakfast being delivered at 9:00 AM.

For us, breakfast was included in our cave house booking, but there are a number of spots to pick up breakfast in Oia. You can also buy bread, cheese, salami, and fruit from local minimarts, though we suggest buying from proper supermarkets on the road as it’ll be substantially cheaper.

Pyrgos, Santorni

Also called Pyrgos Kallistis , Pyrgos is the best-preserved medieval settlement on the island. It’s got beautiful, blue-dome churches on every corner and a maze of stone streets for you to explore.

When you arrive in Pyrgos, you’ll be parking at the bottom of what’s basically a hill. The old down is accessible by stairs and pathways leading upwards. The most iconic Pyrgos sight is probably the Pyrgos Castle with the white tower you see here:

For a break from climbing, a fruity drink and some snacks, make a stop at Franco's Bar . It’s home to the most expensive Aperol Spritz I consumed on the entire trip, but came at a prefect time to escape from the heat in the afternoon.

From here you’ll spend more time wandering around Pyrgos taking as many photos as you please. As a reminder, people do live in these towns, so tresspassing on private property or climbing on buildings for a photo-op is a quick way to make people angry.

Don’t worry, you can get plenty of great photos without being a jerk 😉

From here, it’s time for an early dinner. Make sure you’ve got room in your stomach, because serves huuuuge portions worthy of sharing.

As a starter, I can highly recommend the Cretan salad, which contains Cretan myxithra cheese which is super delicious. Main portions can be split between two, and there’s a complimentary dessert. So as I said, come hungry.

It’s easily the most recommended place to eat in Santorni and didn’t disappoint. Since it’s so popular, be sure to arrive as soon as it opens so you can snag a spot with both shade and a view.

Back in Oia for Sunset

During our entire trip to Santorni, we never missed a single sunset from the hot tub. Can you blame us? Just make sure you’ve visited the supermarket on your way back from Metaxi mas so you’ve got all the goods for some evening snacks without spending a fortune at the mini market.

Day 2. Akrotiri, Red and White Beaches, Akrotiri Lighthouse, Imerovigli

This is probably the most active day of this Santorini itinerary, so make sure you bring plenty of sunscreen, bottled water, and have a good breakfast before setting out.

We’ll also visit two beaches, Vlychada and Kokkini, a white and red beach respectively.

Visit Akrotiri, the ancient Minoan city

Akrotiri was inhabited by the Ancient Minoans starting from 6,000 years ago. It became a major port to the Agean around 4,000 BC and is often referred to as the “Greek Pompeii”.

That said, it’s much, much older than Pompeii, making it that much more impressive. The inhabitants were wiped out in the volcanic explosion that formed Santorini’s Caldera, though there’s evidence than many of the inhabitants managed to flee in time.

The ruins of Akrotiri are thankfully covered from the elements, making is a suitable mid-day activity even when it’s hot outside. Unfortunately, the amount of information available printed inside is extremely minimal. If I were to go again, I would probably book a guided tour in advance with an expert on the site.

Akrotiri Lighthouse

The Akrotiri Lighthouse is about a 13-15 minute drive from the Akrotiri Archaeological site, and is one of the better-known spots for watching sunset on the southern part of the island.

Parking is really limited, and you’ll need to be comfortable parallel parking or backing in with very little room to spare! We watched a couple back into the wall just as we were leaving, so don’t miss that extra bit of insurance on your rental car 😉

Red Beach in Santorini (and safety considerations)

Red Beach is another spot to stop by while you’re on this side of the island. It’s famous for the sheer, red wall contrasting a blue and teal bay below. Most photos you see online are dramatically over saturated, here’s what it really looks like:

Red Beach is accessible in two main ways: first is a short hike by land along a rocky cliff, marked by ominous signs like the one below. The reason they warn against accessing the beach by the path is because this place is known for rockslides, as you can imagine when you see the sheer wall.

Or, you can take a boat tour that stops at the beach, such as this extremely popular Catamaran Cruise which lasts 5 hours. Honestly I was intimidated by the warnings, so we didn’t hike all the way down to the beach, and just observed it from above.

If I were to go again, I’d definitely book a boat tour. I’ve done boat tours on other trips and they usually end up as one of the highlights.

Vlychada Beach

If you’re on the hunt for lunch, we swung by Taverna Dimitris Vlichada for some typical Greek food and a beer to cool off. Prices and portions were reasonable, and the service as friendly as you’d expect.

It’s right next to Vlychada Beach , billed as the most beautiful beach on Santorini.

If you like spending your holidays snoozing on the sand, this is probably the beach I’d pick. The ammenities are good, you can get a spot with shade, and it’s easy and safe to reach. Just make sure you like the style of pounding techno music you’ll inevitably be subjected to by the beach bar 😉

Skaros Rock, Imerovigli

Imerovigli is one of the quieter towns in Santorini, but probably best known for having Skaros Rock as part of its scenery. You can choose to hike it, or just admire how it protrudes into the Caldera from afar. We were here during the hottest part of the day, so a hike wasn’t in order. But if you decide to book accommodation in Imerovigli, you could always go there for a morning hike.

Firostefani

Right next to Imerovigli is its sister town, is Firostefani. The two basically flow into one another, and are connected by footpaths. We didn’t have time to walk along the entire way (and again, it was scorching) but you can grab and ice cream cone and go to a number of lookout points to take in the view.

Dinner in Oia

One of our favorite meals in Santorini was at Roka where you’ll find fantastic home-cooked food and a “mediocre” sea view. I opted for the local pasta, which is topped with a local cheese. Prices are high like everywhere, but more reasonable than you might expect.

As with every restaurant in Santorini, either show up right at opening time or make a reservation in advance. We did the latter and entered a full house, and still got a great seat outside.

Day 3. Ancient Thera, Perissa, Santo Winery, and Fira

For our last day, we’ll be stopping in the better known towns we haven’t visited yet properly: Fira, Firostefani, and Imerovigli. To treat outselves for all the walking, we’ll also stop at Santo Winery to sample local wines and cheeses.

Ancient Thera

After starting at Akrotiri, Ancient Thera will give you an idea of what ancient ruins look like when they’re not perfectly preserved by volcanic ash.

Ancient Thera was originally founded in the 9th century BC, making it much newer than Akrotiri. It was used as a strategic lookout point for the Ptolemaic dynasty’s entire fleet of ships, who were watching over the Aegean Sea.

When you stand out over this cliff, you can imagine being able to see as far as Crete on a clear day. The visibility was a huge advantage.

What’s important to know is that you’ll have an interesting drive getting up here because it’s so steep. You’ll want to go easy on your breaks in the heat, we had a bit of dicey situation in that respect on the way down.

After that, our final stop of the day before dinner: Ancient Thera.

Perissa, Black Sand Beach on Santorini

From here you’re looking down on the Black beach, which you swing by on your way back to Oia for sunset. There are a few black and white sand beaches on Santorini, but this one is billed as one of the nicest. If you like beach bars and baking in the sun, you might enjoy it.

Santo Winery

Smack in the middle of the coast that runs along the Caldera, Santo Wines is one of the best known wineries on the island. It’s especially known for its sunset views, though we visited in mid-day and found it just as nice.

We opted for a single white and red wine tasting, shared between two people. Plus, a Cycladic cheese platter with local cheeses, grapes, dried figs, and tiny bread. The whole thing replaced our plans to have dinner later that evening, because it was massive.

Santorini is best known for its wine made from Asyrtiko grapes, such as the Vinsanto wine. Vines on Santorini can reach 70 years old, and are some of the oldest in the country.

Before wrapping up our trip to Santorni, you’ll want to pay a visit to Fira properly if you didn’t do so when you arrived by ferry. It’s the biggest town on the island, and as such has a lot of bars and restaurants. You’ll be able to see other parts of the island like Oia and Imerovigli from here as well.

For the most part, you’ll want to walk along the main street. There are also some popular churches and an archaeological museum in town, depending on how much time you have.

Ammoudi Bay in Oia

If you’re looking to finish your trip with seafood for dinner, check out the popular (but pricey) fish restaurants in Ammoudi Bay. You can reach the bottom by driving yourself, or walking down on some steps that’ll take you to the restaurants.

One popular option is to walk down and take a taxi up, but the taxis can be pretty pricey. As long as you don’t plan to drink, and you arrive early to get a parking spot, driving down and back up yourself can save some money.

Visit Santorini on a Budget

On a final note, if you’re wondering what kind of budget it takes to enjoy Santorni, it’s true that it’s not cheap, but it’s also not as expensive as you might think. If you’ve ever traveled to countries like Iceland or Sweden, the prices don’t remotely compare.

An average meal in Santorni will generally run you about 15 € and on upwards depending on where you are. There are still plenty of bargains to be found here, or at least places where your money will go further.

Naturally, if you decide to stay in a cave house like we did, the cost per night will be higher. A lot of places will give you a discount if you book more than two nights though, so simply planning a longer but slower trip can bring the cost per day down a little.

How to reach Santorini by plane or ferry

Santorini is a surprisingly short flight from Athens, Greece , just 45 minutes away by a local air service. It’s also popular to take a ferry from Crete (which is how we arrived in Santorini ourselves).

If you were determined, you could do it as a day trip from Athens , but I don’t recommend it. Even though Santorini is a small island, there is a ton to see and do outside the hotspots like Oia and Fira.

Where to go in Greece

If you’re planning to visit Greece but not quite sure where to put on your itinerary just yet, dont miss my other Greece city and region guides:

• Athens itinerary
• Athens Day Trips
• Visit Meteora, Greece
• Northern Greece
• Zagori Itinerary

About the author

Hi there! I'm Monica, an American expat living in Germany for over six years and using every opportunity to explore the world from my homebase in Berlin. My goal is to capture my memories in photos and posts that show how easy it is to start from scratch and travel the world by working abroad.

Follow along on Instagram , Twitter , Bloglovin , & Facebook .

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Santorini, Greece

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

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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

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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
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Santorini Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 12, 2024

Santorini is perhaps the most famous Greek Island. It sees a lot of older tourists and honeymooners (it was made famous as a honeymoon spot by the 1982 movie Summer Lovers ), and is a frequent stop for cruise ships.

From its iconic sunsets to its historical ruins to its numerous vineyards, Santorini is a picturesque island with plenty to see and do. While one of Greece’s most popular islands, it’s big enough that you can find quiet places away from the overwhelming crowds.

Moreover, if you visit outside the hectic summer months, you can enjoy this postcard-perfect island without the huge crowds — and pay lower prices in the process.

Personally, this isn’t my favorite island but it’s still worth a visit because it has some of the best wine, views, and activities in the region.

This travel guide to Santorini can help you plan your trip and ensure you make the most out of your time here without breaking the bank!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Santorini

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Santorini

1. Spend the day in Oia

The picturesque town of Oia is famous for its white houses, blue-domed churches, and windmills. There’s not much to do but wander around the pedestrianized streets, snap pictures, enjoy an (expensive) drink or meal on the caldera’s edge (Santorini exists on the remnants of a volcano), and watch a spectacular sunset. Keep in mind that as the most visited (and second-largest) town on the island, it can become quite crowded in the summer months.

2. Visit Akrotiri

Akrotiri is a 3,500-year-old town that was one of the most significant Minoan cities and ports in the Aegean Sea. In the 17th century BCE, it was covered in volcanic ash from an eruption, earning Akrotiri the moniker the “Greek Pompeii.” Streets, buildings, stairs, and even second floors of buildings are still in perfect condition. The excavation site is covered by a roofing system, which makes it comfortable to visit in the summer heat. Skip-the-line tickets are 15 EUR.

3. Explore Red Beach

Red Beach is famous for its vivid red volcanic cliff framing the bright blue Mediterranean Sea. I think Santorini’s other beaches are better for swimming and sunbathing, but Red Beach’s natural beauty is definitely worth a quick visit. It’s also a great spot for snorkeling. Located a 20-minute drive from Fira, near Akrotiri, it’s just a short (yet rocky) hike down to the beach.

4. Tour a winery

Santorini’s fertile, volcanic landscape is perfect for growing grapes. The vineyards here are unique: to protect their crops against harsh winds, vine growers wrap the vines into a sort of wreath low to the ground. Most wines are made from the island’s indigenous Assyrtiko grape variety, and Santorini is especially known for its Vinsanto wines. A tour is the best way to learn about the island’s wine production tradition, as well as visit a few different wineries (there are over a dozen). A half-day winery tours start at 150 EUR.

5. See the Santorini Volcano

Other things to see and do in santorini, 1. hang out on the beaches.

As far as Greek beaches go, Santorini lacks the idyllic, white sandy beachfront that other islands have. Instead, the beaches here are made up of volcanic rock and pebbles. They’re still perfectly enjoyable though and you’ll find most beaches full of people in the summer. Kamari and Perissa have the most action, especially since the bars and restaurants are right on the water. To escape the crowds, go to Monolithos. You can also head to Ammoudi Bay. It’s not a beach but there are lots of rocks and cliffs you can jump from.

2. Go scuba diving

You probably won’t see a great deal of marine life or coral around Santorini, but the island has tons of shipwrecks. You can dive down about 14 meters (45 ft) and see sunken ships, caves, and endless drop-offs around the caldera. Adiavatous Reef, The Caves, and White Island are some of the most popular dive sites. Scuba diving in Santorini starts at 90 EUR.

3. See the Museum of Prehistoric Thira

Located in Fira, this museum is home to a massive collection of artifacts that were found in the ruins of Akrotiri. Its highlights include wall paintings, pottery, an intricately carved gold ibex figurine (an ibex is a wild mountain goat), and fossilized olive tree leaves dating back to 60,000 BCE. My favorites are the frescoes of blue monkeys, although interestingly enough, there is no evidence of monkeys ever having lived on this island. Admission is 6 EUR.

4. Hike from Fira to Oia

The caldera hike from Fira to Oia is the most popular hike you’ll do in Santorini. It follows the caldera’s edge with sweeping views over the island and the volcano. It’s an easy 10 kilometers (6 miles), but you’ll want to give yourself time to stop and enjoy the viewpoints. Much of the trail is cobblestone or sidewalk, however, there are narrow dirt sections as well as some small elevation gains. Budget at least three hours for the hike and bring sunscreen and water as it’s completely exposed.

5. Visit the Akrotiri Lighthouse

Built in 1892, the Akrotiri Lighthouse is located at the southern end of Santorini (it’s close to the Akrotiri ruins). Standing 10 meters tall (33 ft), it’s used by the Greek Navy so you can’t enter it. However, it makes for a good photo opportunity with its whitewashed walls and its position perched precariously on the cliff’s edge.

6. Hike up to Ancient Thera

Ancient Thera is an ancient city built on a steep ridge. The Dorians (one of the four historic Greek ethnic groups) first settled Thera in the 9th century BCE. The city’s remains consist of Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine ruins at the top of a giant hill. You can visit houses, temples, a market, a theater, and even a gymnasium. You can drive to the top, but the most rewarding way to visit is via the footpath from Perissa. It’s less than 3 kilometers (2 miles), but it’s a steep climb with a visit to a lovely little chapel along the way. Admission to the archaeologist site is 6 EUR.

7. Explore Pyrgos

If you want the full picturesque experience of Oia without the crowds, head to Pyrgos. This used to be the island’s capital and it still has all the whitewashed homes, pristine chapels, and narrow alleyways that you imagine when you think of Santorini but without the crazy crowds. The village is surrounded by wineries, so duck into one of the wine bars or tavernas to sample a local variety.

8. Take a sailing trip

On a sailing trip, you’ll get unique views of Santorini’s calderas and cliffside buildings you otherwise wouldn’t see from shore. There are lots of sunset cruises available, and the best ones include a BBQ and drinks (and sometimes snorkeling too). They usually include pick-up and drop-off as well. Cruises start at 35 EUR and go up from there. If you want to splash out, catamaran cruises can be found for as little as 85 EUR.

9. Try a cooking class

Mediterranean food is some of the most popular in the world. If you’re a foodie like me and want to learn more about the cuisine and culture behind it, try a cooking class. You’ll get to try your hand at some traditional recipes (including favorites like tzatziki and moussaka) while learning about the importance of each dish directly from the local chef. Petra Kouzina has classes that last around 4 hours and cost 120 EUR.

10. Hike to the highest point on Santorini

Profitis Ilias is the tallest mountain on the island, standing 565 meters (1,900 feet) above sea level. Atop the mountain is a monastery that offers the best views of the island. The Prophet Elias Monastery was built in 1711 and you can drive to the top to enjoy the view. You can also hike if you want to stretch your legs. The monastery is in use so you can’t explore it, however, there is a small chapel and a museum with relics from the Byzantine era. You can also purchase items the monks make, including their wine.

11. Take an e-bike tour

Santorini is hilly, but that doesn’t mean you can’t bike around it! There are several companies offering e-bike tours (and rentals) so that you can pedal across the island terrain, stopping at picturesque villages to refuel with local bites, wine, or coffee. Santorini Adventures and EcoBike Santorini tours both offer a variety of tours, starting at 90 EUR for a half-day tour (includes bike rental).

  For more information on other destinations in Greece, check out these guides:

• Athens Travel Guide
• Corfu Travel Guide
• Crete Travel Guide
• Ios Travel Guide
• Mykonos Travel Guide
• Naxos Travel Guide
• Sparta Travel Guide

Santorini Travel Costs

Hostel prices – During peak season, hostel prices here are considerably higher than in the rest of Greece. A bed in any size dorm costs at least 45 EUR per night in Fira. If you want to stay further away from Fira (like in Perissa), 10-bed dorms start at 25 EUR.

In the off-season, beds in dorms around Fira start at 35 EUR per night while beds in hostel dorms further away from Fira start at 20 EUR.

In peak season, outside of Fira a private double room with a shared bathroom costs 45 EUR per night (35 EUR in the off-season). Prices are considerably higher in Fira (95 EUR and more) and they don’t change much between seasons.

Budget hotel prices – Hotels in Santorini are also more expensive than in the rest of Greece. Budget two-star hotels start at 60 EUR everywhere except in Oia, where rooms are closer to 100 EUR. In the off-season, prices drop by around 30-40%. If you’re coming in peak season, don’t wait to book.

Airbnb is available everywhere on Santorini, however, prices for both private rooms and entire homes/apartments are expensive. I’d skip Airbnb while you’re here as it’s not a budget-friendly option. You’ll get better value from B&Bs and hotels if you’re looking for private accommodation.

Food – Traditional Greek cuisine is very healthy with a lot of fresh vegetables, olive oil, lamb, fish, pork, cheeses (especially feta), and yogurts. Filo pastries stuffed with meat or spinach and cheese are a local favorite as are souvlaki and gyros.

You can find street food like gyros for under 5 EUR. A hearty pita or Greek salad costs around 7.5 EUR while a fast food like McDonald’s (yes, there is a McDonald’s here) costs around 8 EUR for a combo meal.

Restaurants on Santorini can be crazy expensive, especially in Fira or Oia. During the day, you can find a lot of the small tavernas around the island offering lunch specials for around 15 EUR. A breakfast of eggs and coffee costs around 11 EUR. Your typical Greek main dish costs around 10 EUR, with the traditional Greek salad around 7-9 EUR.

If you’re looking for seafood, don’t get it by the kilo. It’s around 55 EUR or more for a kilo. Get the fillets instead. A fish dinner will cost around 20-25 EUR. A glass of wine at a restaurant will be around 4 EUR while a bottle will start at around 20 EUR.

If you’re eating in Oia or Ammoundi Bay, don’t go there on a budget. You’ll spend at least 50 EUR on a meal.

Beer can be found for around 3-5 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is around 4 EUR. Bottled water at the supermarket is around 0.50 EUR. Cocktails are around 10 EUR.

Supermarkets are few and far between on Santorini. If you cook for yourself, expect to spend around 55 EUR on groceries per week. This gets you basic staples like pasta, rice, bread, veggies, and meat.

Backpacking Santorini Suggested Budgets

Santorini is one of the most expensive places in Greece so you need to budget accordingly.

If you’re backpacking, expect to spend at least 60 EUR per day. This is assuming you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking most meals and eating some cheap fast food, using the bus to get around, limiting your drinking, and doing mostly free activities like hanging out at the beach or hiking. Add at least 5-10 EUR to your budget per day if you plan on drinking.

On a mid-range budget of 130 EUR per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or B&B, eat out for all your meals, enjoy more drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like visiting Akrotiri or touring the volcano.

On a “luxury” budget of 285 EUR per day, you can stay in a hotel, drink as much as you want, eat out anywhere you want, rent a scooter to get around, and do more tours and activities like scuba diving or a winery tour. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Santorini Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Santorini is Greece’s most iconic island. That means it gets super crowded in the summer and prices rise drastically. Fortunately, it’s easy to save money here if you know a few tricks (or if you come off-season). Here are some of my best ways to cut your costs in Santorini:

• Hit Happy Hour – Drinks get very expensive on Santorini. Drink your fill during happy hour, when they have 2 for 1 drinks and 1 EUR shots.
• Use the Greek Salad/Bread Rule – If the bread cover at a restaurant is .50 EUR or a Greek salad is less than 7 EUR, the restaurant is cheap. If the cover is around 1 EUR and a salad is 7-8.50 EUR, the prices are average. Anything more than that and the place is expensive.
• Eat super cheap – Gyros (and other street snacks) usually only cost a few euros. They are quick and easy and can keep you full for less than 10 EUR per day!
• Buy wine at the store – You can buy a great bottle of wine from the stores for as little as 4 EUR. It’s a lot cheaper than drinking at the bar, so drink before you go out to save money.
• Rent a moped – If you’re going to be here for a while, rent a moped or quad. It’s cheaper than a car and more convenient than the bus. It’s a fun way to see the various towns and cities and the best way to get off the beaten path.
• Avoid staying in Oia – The main town is the most expensive place to stay. Avoid staying and eating here and you’ll find yourself cutting your costs down significantly.
• Visit in the off-season – June-August are the most expensive months so if you can visit before June or after August you can cut your costs significantly.
• Stay with a local – While there are not a lot of hosts on the island, if you look in advance on Couchsurfing you might be able to find a local to let you stay for free. Not only will you save money but you’ll be able to connect with a local who can share their tips and insider advice!
• Book in advance – Santorini gets a lot of tourism and things tend to fill up quickly (especially in the summer). If you want to secure that ultra-cheap hostel room, book in advance!
• Use points if you can – If you have points, use them to book accommodation. For only a few thousand points per night, you can save a ton of money. This post has more info on getting started .
• Get a ferry pass – Eurail/Interrail has a ferry pass that has 4- and 6-trip options. The only caveat is that you can only take Blue Star and Hellenic Seaways ferries. Those tend to be the larger, slower ferries and, depending on the islands, might require you to connect somewhere. You’ll need to research routes in advance to see if the pass is worth it. I would search routes on FerryHopper to see if it works for you. You can purchase your pass on Eurail (non-EU residents) or Interrail (EU residents).
• Skip the cliffside restaurants – The restaurants along the caldera’s edge are way more expensive than the restaurants away from the cliffside. Avoid them!
• Go to museums on their free admission days – Most of the museums have some days when admission is free. Check the Odysseus Culture website for details as they vary from museum to museum.
• Have an ISIC Card – To save on the cost of admission to museums and other tourist attractions, be sure to present a valid student card. The ISIC is typically accepted in places where a foreign student ID is not and can save you a lot of money.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Santorini

Santorini is a big island so if you’re planning on spending more than a few days here it’s a good idea to switch up your location. If you want a quiet part of town, stay on the south or east sides of the island. Here are my suggested places to stay in Santorini:

• Youth Hostel Anna
• Bedspot Hostel
• Asterolithos Hotel

How to Get Around Santorini

Routes are limited, especially during the off-season and shoulder season, so be sure to check the latest times at the main bus station in Fira. Buses also don’t run late into the night so plan accordingly. Buses are cash only.

Scooter/Quad rentals – There are lots of scooter and quad rental shops in Santorini. Rentals start from 17 EUR per day in the off-season for scooters and 30 EUR per day for an ATV. In the peak season, scooter rentals start from 22 EUR and ATVs from 45 EUR.

Bicycle – Regular bicycles cost around 20 EUR per day from Santorini Adventures. Their eBike rentals start from 40 EUR per day.

Taxi – Taxis are available everywhere but they’re expensive. A taxi from the port to Fira costs about 25 EUR while Fira to Perissa costs the same. Fira to Oia is about 30 EUR! In short, if you take taxis around the island, you can spend 60+ EUR a day. Avoid them if you can and rent your own ride or take the bus!

When to Go to Santorini

Summer (June-August) is the most popular time to visit Santorini. Temperatures average 30°C (85°F), making the Mediterranean perfect for swimming and sunbathing. This is also when most of the cruise ships and tourists arrive, however, so the island gets busy and prices skyrocket.

Santorini’s shoulder seasons (April-May and September-November) are the best times to visit the island. The Mediterranean weather is pleasant so you’ll still get warm temperatures. The tourist crowds are much less oppressive and prices are less inflated. Expect daily highs around 18°C (64°F).

Winter in Santorini is chilly. The average daily low is 9°C (48°F), but sometimes it can dip even lower. Pack some sweaters if you’re visiting between November to February. On the upside, you won’t have to compete with tourists for hotel rooms during this time. Just keep in mind that many businesses and services shut down in the off-season so the island is dead. In short, I would avoid visiting in the winter unless you have no other choice.

How to Stay Safe on Santorini

Santorini is a very safe place to travel. Violent crime is rare so your only concern is petty theft/pickpocketing. Keep your valuables close at the beach or leave them in your hotel room when you go swimming. If you go out at night, only bring the cash and cards you need.

If you’re an inexperienced driver, you may want to pass on the scooter/quad rental. Locals zip around chaotically and the hairpin turns and hills sometimes make for dangerous driving.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk home alone intoxicated, etc.)

Scams here are rare but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common scams to avoid here .

Much of Santorini is exposed to the elements, so if you’re visiting during the summer months and plan on spending lots of time outdoors, wear a hat, drink lots of water, and put on sunscreen.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Santorini Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Ferry Hopper – If you’re looking to book your ferries, this website is an easy way to search the various companies, piece together routes, and book your tickets.

Santorini Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Greece and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hostels in Athens

Where to Stay in Athens: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The Best Walking Tours in Athens

Traveling Greece: How Much Does It Cost?

Fulfilling Childhood Dreams in Crete

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

The Ultimate Jetset Santorini, Greece Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Santorini is an absolute dream.

Gorgeous white buildings built into the cliffs, surrounded by sparkling blue water. Crisp white wines and fresh mediterranean seafood overlooking the Aegean sea. Blue-domed churches and beautiful bells that seem straight out of a storybook. Luxury hotels with infinity pools and sun lounges that make you feel like you’re swimming in heaven. Santorini is everything you’ve imagined. And more.

There’s no wonder it’s one of the top destinations for honeymoons in the world, not to mention one of the top European destinations in general. It’s a bucket list vacation. And it’s time to check it off.

Here is my ultimate Santorini travel guide  that will help make it your favorite vacation yet.

Table of Contents

Where to stay in Santorini

When it comes to writing this blog post and having the absolute best recommendations on where to stay in Santorini , I wanted to make sure I explored a lot of different accommodation options the island had to offer so I could help you guys make the best decision on which of the many Santorini hotels is best for YOU and your Greek Isles vacation. This past trip (in Summer 2019), I stayed in 4 hotels over the course of 9 days and these were my absolute favorites below.

wearing this dress – highly recommend

I highly recommend each of them – for different reasons! If you want to avoid the crowds, you’ll want to stay away from downtown Oia, but I highly recommend being walking distance to it if you’re going to be spending a lot of your time there (this is the heart of all the shopping, dining, and of course the instagrammable spots of Santorini with the blue-domed churches). My favorites in this area are below. If you want even more seclusion, you can stay in nearby budget-friendly Finikia, for a fraction of the price at , or the luxe and secluded Imerovigli village, which has some of the most beautiful hotels (like Grace Santorini) and the most perfect sunset views, (and is an ideal honeymoon level of quiet and tucked away), but is a cab ride away from Oia.

Whether you’re traveling to Greece on your honeymoon, a mother-daughter trip, a vacation with friends, or a romantic getaway with a loved one, here are the best luxury hotels in Santorini, as well as recommendations for luxury hotels on a budget in Oia

Kirini Santorini

Kirini Santorini is one of the Leading Hotels in the World, and it’s easy to see why. It’s only around 40 rooms, and feels like a complete oasis of its own, just 5 minutes outside of much-busier Oia. It’s completely secluded, private, and beautiful. The rooms are definitely the nicest I found in Santorini, with super-plush king sized beds and spacious cave-style suites. And the food & wine were to die for – the champagne buffet breakfast (included in your room rate) was SO good, and the perfect way to start your Santorini day. The service was fabulous – and they even give each guest a bottle of delicious Santorini wine at check-in. (They clearly know the way to my heart!)

Mystique Santorini

Everything is a dream at this resort. I mean just LOOK at the room view we had. Does it get any better than this ?

Grace Hotel Santorini

Grace Hotel Santorini , an Auberge Resort, is easily one of the dreamiest places to stay in Santorini. Being in Imerovigli village, it has a panoramic view of the sunset (unlike Oia), and its tucked away location in Imerovigli makes it a much less crowded, more secluded choice for a hotel in Santorini (perfect for a honeymoon!).  I especially loved their dreamy infinity pool, their food (SO GOOD!!!) and their champagne lounge for sunset cocktails. Definitely stop by for a sunset & champagne even if you’re not staying at Grace!

West East Suites – Imerovigli

Also located in the quiet village of Imerovigli is West East Suites – a Santorini hotel perfect for honeymooners because each room comes with a private pool or hot tub and jaw-dropping views of the sea!

Where to stay in Santorini for luxury on a budget:

Kima oia suites.

A sweet follower of mine highly recommended this gem of a hotel in Oia after staying here for her honeymoon and saying it was unbelievable!! The reviews are incredible and the location is absolutely IDEAL. The superior rooms have a jetted hot tub and a extremely spacious, romantic private balcony in the perfect location in Santorini – you can’t ask for anything better for a Greece honeymoon . 

Fava Eco Suites

Since we were arriving late and didn’t want to waste the short night at a super expensive hotel, we chose to spend our first night at Fava Eco Suites , a budget-friendly-but-still-nice hotel just a 10 minute walk away from Oia. I fell in LOVE with this place, you guys! It is so charming and the staff were SO nice. It is in this charming village just off of Oia, with the cutest restaurants and buildings. It may not have the ocean views of the other side of Oia, but it had the cutest Greek white-village views, and a hot tub patio that made it the perfect place to get our vacation started. We also had one of our favorite meals of the entire trip just steps from our suite, at Meze Meze restaurant!! (Order the lamb shank and tzaziki, oh my god!! SO GOOD).  If you’re not planning on splurging your entire trip, this is a perfect place to start your trip and save some money as you work up to your luxury resorts in Santorini.

Nikos Villas

At around $2-300 euros a night, this is a more affordable option in the absolute perfect area in the heart of Oia. Nikos Villas has the same gorgeous view of the Caldera that many of the luxury hotels in Oia have, but with simpler rooms. It’s a perfect location!

Olympic Villas 

Around 250 euros a night, this family-run hotel has two beautiful pools overlooking the Aegean sea in the same area as some of the most exclusive luxury resorts! They are much simpler rooms than the luxe hotels, but if you’re planning on spending most of your time outside the room, or that’s not a prio for you, Olympic Villas is a perfect option in the right area at a quarter of the price.

*If this blog post helped you and you end up booking any hotel in Santorini please do so using my links above or this link here ! I am not paid by any specific hotels themselves (so you never have to worry about JetsetChristina recommending anything I don’t absolutely LOVE!), but I am an affiliate of Booking .com, so no matter what hotel you book in the world, if you book through this link , they give me credit for bringing them your business (at no cost to you of course). This helps the blog keep running, and makes a big difference. I appreciate it so much!!!

Where to eat in Santorini

Naos is my favorite restaurant for fine dining in Santorini. We were recommended it from our concierge and I’m SO glad we chose it. It has a beautiful rooftop right in the center of Oia, that boasts some gorgeous sunset views and an even better menu. We had sushi to start, as well as a few fun greek appetizers, lamb chops (unbelievably good!), and delicious sourdough bread. The best way to get a reservation is to ask your concierge at your hotel to make it for you!

photo courtesy of Naos, Ventouris photography

Sunset Taverna, Ammoudi Bay

Naos and Sunset Taverna were my most memorable meals in Greece. Sunset Taverna is nestled on Ammoudi Bay ( a 250-step walk down from Oia, which is a great way to earn your dinner!), right on the water. The seafood couldn’t be fresher, or better, and everything on the menu was SO GOOD. Get there early enough before sunset to request a table on the water. And you must order the lobster pasta – it is hands-down one of the best dinners I’ve ever had. I’m still dreaming about it!

For greek food just off of Oia’s main square at a good price, Melitini is a great choice. Their pita bread is to-die-for, and their entire menu is a delicious selection of mediterranean.

Meze Meze, Finikia Village 

Meze Meze was an ultra-charming casual restaurant tucked into a neighbor village to Oia – Finikia. It’s a gorgeous spot to dine with the sunset, and the food is so good. We had the lamb shank and it was one of the best meals we had in Greece!

For casual gyros and greek food right in Oia, Pito’s is your spot! It’s a great go-to for lunch or a casual meal anytime of the day!

Lucky’s Gyros in Fira

If you’re looking for a great casual gyro in the Fira area, head straight to Lucky’s in Fira and order the gyros pita! It’s to die for.

What to do in Santorini

Wine tasting.

You can walk to wineries from Oia in only about 20 minutes! I  loved spending the afternoon at Sigalas Winery, and highly recommend making the trip here during your Santorini vacation! I first heard about Sigalas at my favorite restaurant in San Francisco , Kokkari. It’s a greek restaurant and every time I’m there I order Sigalas Winery’s Santorini white wine. So I just HAD to go in person! Make a reservation in advance as it can get crowded! You’ll DEFINITELY want to do the lunch as well. The wine is great, but the food is the real stealer of the show here. Order all of the wines to taste, and then the fava, and the tomato fritters to go with your wine, and thank me later.

Shop my dress here – it’s one of my summer staples!

Rent an ATV for the day and explore the island

Transportation around Santorini is pretty expensive (and cabs are few and far between) so I highly recommend renting an ATV for one day and exploring all Santorini has to offer! The rate is about $30-$40 euros per day, and it’s really fun. It’s also easy driving – there’s only so many roads on the island! You can rent them from any of the main towns, just ask your hotel or anyone in town.

(My adorable parents on one! They met up with us in Greece!)

A sunset sail

We loved doing a sunset sailboat tour with Santorini Yacht Charters. It’s a half-day trip, and they’ll stop at multiple swimming spots (including a hot spring) as they make their way to the harbor near Oia. There, you’ll have a big dinner on the boat and watch the sun set in the perfect location. It was magical! Just bring a sweatshirt or something warm, because it can get windy as the sun sets.

Walk from Oia to Fira

This one is for serious hikers only. Full disclosure I didn’t even ATTEMPT this walk. It’s a 3 hour trek (one way, you have a cab drop you at Fira and walk back toward Oia), and I’ve heard that you need to make sure you do it welllll before sunset, because you can get stuck in the wilderness in the dark if you start too late. If you’re a big hiker or really want to get a workout on vacation, go for it. But for me, I would much rather get my workout in Oia (the steps will have you feeling fit no matter how much spinakopita you eat!) and soak up the views at the hotel.

Go to the Beach

If you’re a beach person, you may want to check out one of Santorini’s best beaches – but be forewarned, Santorini is better known for it’s cliffsides and views than its beaches (Mykonos definitely has it beat on the beachfront). In Santorini, I personally had way more fun soaking up the poolside views from the cliff at the hotel than climbing down to the rocky beaches. But, if you’re looking for an adventure, definitely try one of Santorini’s beaches!

Red Beach is the most famous beach (if you do a boat ride, you can see it from the water which is beautiful!), where the volcanic red rocks create a gorgeous postcard-worthy setting. It’s narrow, and can get crowded, and the path to get there is steep, so be careful!

Another beautiful beach in Santorini is Perissa and Perivolos – also known as Santorini’s Black Beach. Perissa is basically the tail-end of the long black sand beach of Perivolos. It’s the busiest and the most organized beach on Santorini, and a great place to grab a cocktail, do some watersports, and soak up the sun.

Book a photographer

If you’re traveling to Greece on your honeymoon, celebrating an engagement, or just want a photoshoot for no reason at all, check out Flytographer ! I tried them out and we had so much fun on our 1-hour couples shoot. It was a great way to get photos you wouldn’t otherwise be able to get in a beautiful place like Santorini – and it was SO much fun! We are even thinking about using ours for our save the dates for our upcoming wedding! Use this link to book and you’ll get $25 off 🙂 

Sunset Cocktails at PK Cocktails

Looking for the best sunset bar in Santorini? Look no further. PK Cocktails is your spot!!! 

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by PK Cocktail Bar (@pkcocktailbar)

The best way to get to Santorini – Should you ferry or fly?

I’ve been to Santorini by boat and by flying from Athens (you can usually get a hopper flight for pretty cheap on Skyscanner ) and definitely my favorite way to do it is by flying. It’s a lot easier to get into town by car than hiking up A TRILLION stairs with your bags (or slugging them on a donkey), and it was just overall a much better experience, not to mention it saves a lot of time! (The ferry from Athens is around 6 hours, and time is precious on any Greek isles vacation!) There are more than 20 flights per day from Athens to Santorini in the Summer and airfare for Athens to Santorini flights will cost between $40 and $175.  Flying time from Athens to Santorini is about 45 minutes.

How to get from the airport to your hotel in Santorini

If you don’t organize a transfer through your hotel, cabs are around 45-55 euros from the airport (yikes!). There is a bus, but it’s not very frequent or direct and I don’t recommend it as the best way to get to Oia or your hotel. If you have 4 or more people (or you make friends with another couple in the airport going the same direction- like we did!), the best, fastest and most economical way to get to Oia is Yafy Transfers – located on the left after you get your luggage in the airport. They have super nice Mercedes buses that take you and your group to Oia for just $12 euros a person!

What to Pack for a Trip to Santorini

It’s warm in Santorini – even in May when we were there and the weather only said it was in the upper 60s/lower 70s, it felt HOT anytime you weren’t in the breeze. It’s very sunny so you’ll want fun, summery dresses, and ones that will perfectly complement the beautiful blues and whites of the city. Also, definitely leave your heels at home! The steps all over Santorini are TOUGH enough even in sandals, you are not going to want to wear any heels on your trip.

Here’s what I packed for my trip to Santorini: (Click the photos to shop!)

The Best One pieces & bikinis for a vacation in Greece or the Greek Isles

Cute, lightweight pants & skirts for Greece

Lightweight, flowy dresses for Greece

You’re going to want some lightweight, flowy dresses to take you from exploring the charming towns to sunset cocktails and into dinner. These are my favorite picks for Santorini dresses!

Men’s button-down Greece shirt , with matching dress

How beautiful are t these earrings for greece?

A couple sunset / date night dresses & jumpsuits

The best time of year to visit Santorini to avoid the crowds

Wondering when is the best time to visit Santorini? Santorini is a seasonal destination – meaning it’s pretty much closed to visitors from November through March. In April, it’s still pretty cold, but in May it starts to warm up (later May is definitely better), and the best weather is found late May, June, July, August and September. I’ve heard from the locals that October is the best time to visit since it’s so much less crowded, but personally I think May and September are the sweet spots. In May, although some areas were crowded (especially on days where multiple cruise ships are in town), you really only run into the crowds in downtown Oia. If you’re staying in a hotel like the ones I recommended, you are in your own oasis, and won’t even see any people! So don’t let the fear of the crowds dictate your vacation! But that being said, consider staying away from July and August if you can manage traveling a different time of year, since I hear that is the craziest time to come to Santorini.

The best spots to watch the sunset in Santorini

You’ll hear from a lot of people that Oia is the best place to watch the sun set, but it gets SO crowded around sunset in Oia that I really prefer elsewhere! These were my absolute favorite sunsets of our trip:

Imerovigli – at Grace Hotel

Imerovigli has the most beautiful view of the sunset because it’s completely panoramic, whereas parts of Oia don’t even get a sunset since they’re facing the other way.

On a sailboat!

If you do a sunset sail (like the one I did with Santorini Yachting Club ) you’re going to get an unbelievable view of Santorini’s epic sunsets.

In Ammoudi Bay

The ultra-charming Ammoudi Bay – is 250 steps down from Oia and is a must-do for any trip to Santorini – especially for a sunset dinner. The seafood can’t get any fresher than this little fishing bay, and the sunset views can’t get any better. It’s an easy hike down, and then on the way back you’ll burn every calorie you just ate by hiking up the steps. Just watch out for the donkey poop (LOL) and definitely use your flashlight!

The best places to get those picture perfect photos of Santorini

But, there are some insta-famous spots in Santorini (like these blue-domed churches you’ve seen on your feed a thousand times) that are pretty crowded with tourists all trying to get their ‘gram.  I recommend going around Oia first thing in the morning (the light is BEAUTIFUL at this time of day – and if you add in some Jetset Mobile Presets and voila – you’ll have that perfect insta post, and can go on to enjoy your day in Santorini without fighting the crowds 🙂

To find the famous blue domes is pretty easy, you just head to the main square of Oia and a few meters past you turn left and you’ll see some GORGEOUS streets and views of the water, the domes, and the churches. It’s gorgeous at this time of day because there aren’t any crowds, so you feel like you have the town all to yourself.

Other instagrammable spots in Santorini:

Another beautiful postcard-perfect panoramic view we found was on the first part of the hike between Oia and Imerovigli to a hidden church only about a 20 minutes walking away (don’t worry you don’t have to do the full hike, I just did this part!). There’s even an adorable white church at the top of a hill overlooking the whole city!

We went up to this spot with a Flytographer photographer – which is an awesome thing to do if you’re celebrating an engagement, honeymoon, or just want some great couples pics on your trip! It’s a one hour session with a local photographer who shows you some of his favorite spots on the island – it was really fun! If you’re interested, you can use the code JETSETCHRISTINA50 for $50 off 🙂

PS – have more questions on Santorini, Greece or any other destination? Join the JETSETTERS secret facebook group to get & give travel recs to our Jetset Christina community and connect with other #JSCJetsetters!

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WRITTEN BY: Christina

Christina is a leading luxury lifestyle and travel blogger with over 2 million readers. Follow her on instagram @jetsetchristina.

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Richard Kelly

Santorini is also a dream for me, I hope to go soon. Yes, your tips will surely help me make it my favorite vacation. I take note of your best places to get perfect pictures. Thank you 😉

This looked liked the most amazing trip! The Sigalas Winery is definitely one of the places I’d love to visit one day. Thanks for sharing this fabulous guide!

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Hi Christina! Thank you so much for sharing this experience with us! I would love to know how much on average would a trip like this for 2 cost in late May early June ..ty!!! PS I’ve check out almost all of your Charleston, SC recommendations 👌 👍🏼

Karima Merchant

Hi there, I’m planning a trip to Santorini and yours reccs look amazing, have saved a few already! I went to college w Katie Billoti and she actually sent your post to me! 🙂 quick question for you- I’m looking into the sunset charter and am finding posts to rent a private yacht, sail yourself.. do you have a link by chance to the company you went through?

Christina Vidal

Aw so fun! Yes I used Santorini Yachting Club for our sunset sail! It’s like 15 people and was fab!! http://www.santoriniyachtingclub.com

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Helene in Between

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Ultimate Travel Guide to Santorini

By Helene Sula

Feathery trees sway in the wind, their trunks painted white. Blue and white flags flutter about proudly as the sun beats down on the dusty pavement. Crisp white buildings with azure colored dome roofs cling the the cliffs and seem to pile on top of each other, making their way to the end of the island.

It's none other than the striking Santorini. Despite it being a tiny speck on the map, I keep coming back again and again. This ultimate travel guide to Santorini will give you everything to see, do, stay, eat, and so much more.

I've also mapped out the best places for pictures and sunsets in Santorini. Because, let's face it, they are epic.

It's the most famous Greek island for a reason.

There are a lot of beautiful islands in Greece. There are many white washed towns across the globe. But there's something about Santorini that beckons people from all over the wold to come traverse its picturesque landscape.

Whether you're a fan of Mamma Mia and picture yourself frolicking (and singing) through the cobble stone streets, or just want to soak up the sun with a backdrop of the caldera and whitewashed homes, there's nothing better than Santorini.

Yes, it get crowded. But the mythical island, some think this is the lost city of Atlantis, keeps visitors enthralled. Plus, once you read my guide you'll easily be able to escape the crowds.

I've spent a fair bit of time in Santorini and always feel like I could make a trip back to the beautiful white washed cliff side and famous (but still mostly dormant) volcano.

Know Before You Go to Santorini

When to visit santorini, how to get to santorini, where to stay in santorini, budget hotels, mid range hotels, luxury hotels, how to get around santorini, what to do in santorini, best places for sunset in santorini, explore the town of fira, explore the town of oia, best beaches in santorini, walk from fira to oia, take a boat around the caldera, go to the highest peak at mesa vouno mountain, horseback ride along the beach, tour the ancient village of akrotiri, santorini's open air cinema, where to eat in santorini, best places for pictures in santorini, how long to stay in santorini, where to island hop.

Below you can find a map of all the places discussed in this post:

Despite many calling the island “Santorini” that technically isn't true. Santorini is the name of the region while “Thira” is the actual name of the island itself. This area or several islands used to be a volcano. It exploded and created an area with multiple islands. The “caldera” is a volcanic feature that forms by the collapse of a volcano. Therefore, the region of Santorini is a circular shape and refers to the other small islands that make up the circle.

If you plan on driving in Santorini and you aren't from Europe, you'll need an international driver's license. This was something that surprised my friends when they visited and they weren't able to rent a car. I highly recommend having a car in Santorini. So make sure to get your driver's license.

Santorini is not a party island. Sure, there are bars and clubs, but there are other islands (Mykonos, for example) that are known for their parties.

The population of the island of Santorini is 12,000 but each year 4 and half million tourists flood the island. To avoid the crowds it's best to go during off season, if you can. November is a great time to go if you want the whole island tourist free. But May and late September are also good months to avoid the crowds. Of course, that can't always be avoided which is why I recommend lodging outside of the busy cities like Fira and Oia.

There are two options to get to Santorini – fly (typically from Athens) or take a ferry . I've done both. Now, most people think that a ferry is cheaper and longer. But that's not necessarily the case. The fast ferry from Athens or a nearby island can take 4 and half hours (the slow ferry takes about 8 hours) and is a fun journey for some. I get sea sick and I've gotten sick every time I've taken a ferry to or from Santorini.

There is also the option of flying which is usually the quicker way for most. Most flights will depart out of Athens , so you will most likely take at least two flights to get there. I recommend spending a day or two in Athens and seeing the Parthenon and other astonishing ruins.

There's plenty of accommodation in Santorini. Whether you want an expensive cliff side villa, a laid-back hotel, or sunset views, the island is so small you really can't go wrong.

Something to keep in mind when choosing a hotel: the island is tiny. It takes about 40 minutes to go from one side to the other. For me, I would rather have parking and cheaper accommodation. That's why I suggest my budget recommendation. If you don't think you'll leave your hotel much, or you want to stay in the touristy areas more, then you might want to opt for a mid range or luxury hotel.

So, you have to ask yourself: would you rather stay near the beaches? Or have the famous views? You will be paying more for views but it's up to you.

Regardless, I always book hotels through Booking.com .

Villa Clio in Perissa – I've stayed here twice and each time for a few days. I cannot recommend Villa Clio enough. It's a lovely blue and white building complete with a nice swimming pool and ample parking. You can walk five minutes to Perissa's black sand beach or drive 30 seconds to the main road that runs through the island. The hotel offers breakfast (at an additional cost) and the rooms are clean and comfortable. The only drawback is that it can be a bit noisy since the walls are thin. This didn't bother me (I'm a heavy sleeper) but it's something to keep in mind. I will stay here again and again because the price is fantastic (I'm talking TEN times less than other places) and it's absolutely everything you need.

Santorini Traditional Cave House in Vothonas – If you're traveling with a larger group (since this place sleeps 6) this is the perfect escape. This AirBnb is complete with everything you need.

Villa Happening in Imerovigli – This traditional hotel offers everything you need for a great stay in a centrally located village. Most rooms come with a sea view and a/c is included!

Of course, if you come to Santorini, you might want to stay in a luxury hotel. The main four towns located on the cliff are Fira (the most popular) followed right by Oia , and Imerovigli and Firostafani . If you want a hotel that has an epic view than these are it.

NK Cave Hotel in Fira – If you want the ultimate escape with a hot tub and beautiful sunset views, then this beautiful hotel is the perfect place. Extremely highly rated, this is one of the best hotels in Santorini.

Athina Luxury Suites in Fira – A crystal clear pool overlooking the panoramic views of the caldera. You can't go wrong with this beautiful hotel.

Villa Katikies in Oia – Oia is known for it's sunsets and this hotel not only has great views and pool, but refined furnishings that will make you feel like a king or queen.

Art Maisons Oia Castle – If you want to pull out all the stops for your honeymoon in Santorini then this castle hotel in Oia is it! Private pool, astounding views, and over-the-top luxury make this perfect for a newlywed couple.

You can use this map to check hotels, prices, and availability.:

The best way to really see all of Santorini is to rent a car . Cabs are expensive, buses are infrequent, and the island has a lot of different beaches and areas to explore making a car your best bet. Driving here is easy. The roads are a bit small, but it also means people go pretty slow. It's very much “island life” here, so driving and parking is straightforward.

The Santorini airport is small so after you exit you can easily pick up a car. We rented from Orbitz on our most recent trip.

*Remember, if you're NOT from the EU, you'll need an international driver's license. So that applies to all Americans.

I'm finally sharing my favorite things to do in Santorini. This list is in priority order- from the things you must do, to the things at the bottom you might want to skip.

You might think it's odd that I'm starting with sunsets on the best things to do in Santorini, but really, a lot of people come here just to watch the sunset.

The town of Oia is know as the best place for sunset. Located at the tip of the island it is a great place for views of the caldera and turns the white-washed town a hazy shade of pink.

I also like to spend sunset at the equally as picturesque town of Fira . Here, you can see Oia and feel like you're in the middle of the caldera. I recommend heading toward the edge of town to avoid crowds.

If you're looking for a great restaurant view you might pay the price, but you'll get a stellar lookout. Franco's is the quintessential restaurant in Fira for a terrific view. I also like to include Franco's in some of my pictures since it's such an iconic Santorini location. Opt for a cocktail and get there early to snag a seat outside.

Either place, get there a few minutes before the sun sets to get a good view point.

If you want to avoid crowds entirely one of the best places for sunset in Santorini is to drive near the coast. We found a lovely spot near Taxiarhis Church where we had the whole place to ourselves, save for a friendly dog.

I suggest staying around this part of the coast, bring a bottle of wine, and you'll have tourist-free views of the beautiful caldera.

Another great spot is the Akrotiri lighthouse where you can get a unique sunset view of Santorini and the surrounding islands.

Lastly, check out a winery for unparalleled views and a breathtaking landscape. I was floored by Venetsanos Winery and their cobblestone path spilling out over the caldera.

Fira is the largest town in Santorini and also offers some of the best views of the caldera. There are loads of souvenir shops, restaurants, bars, and, of course, white washed houses. It's very easy to get here and I suggest parking in the lot just before the main artery of the town.

The best thing to do is to just walk the streets. If you feel it's getting too crowded just take a turn and discover a new path or wander near a church. Be careful not to walk on top of churches as there are signs that say not to do so.

Make sure to spot the cable car and the old cruise port below.

For great views head into the center of town near the church. Then go down. You'll avoid the main street and be able to walk amoungst the villas. It's a lot of strenuous walking up and down so wear comfortable shoes.

Another great place to get views of the city is walking to the nearby town of Firostefani, just a short walk (about 10 minutes) which will still be beautiful views of the white washed cliffs.

Oia is Santorini's second biggest town and is similar to Fira with many shops and restaurants. However, I do love Oia for it's iconic windmill and bright yellow church. Take a walking tour of the town and pop into the shops or grab a frozen yogurt with drizzled honey.

A great place for pictures and views is from the Oia Castle . Also, make sure you check out the Atlantis bookstore nestled slightly below the main street.

You can also hike down to Amoudi Bay for some swimming and a great place for fresh seafood. You can also watch the cliff jumpers!

Many of the beaches in Santorini are named based on the color of the sand. My favorites are very easily accessible and aren't too crowded. Santorini isn't exactly known for it's beaches. You're not going to find pristine white, soft sand. But they are still a wonderful spot to relax and enjoy a pina colada.

Perissa “black sand” beach – This is my favorite beach on the island. This long stretch of sand is dotted with great bars and restaurants.

Red Beach – It's a steep and somewhat challenging path to make it down to the red beach, but it's one of the best in Santorini. The sand is a rusty red color because of the cliffs that surround it.

Kamari Beach – This lively pebble beach is a great hangout with a few bars and restaurants. Also a good spot for a swim and snorkeling.

Monolithos Beach – If you really want to get away from the crowds and have a nice view of the ocean then this might just be the beach for you.

White Beach – Only accessible by boat this beach isn't very “white” but is a nice spot to swim.

If you're up for a hike , you can walk from the town of Fira over to Oia. It's a strenuous walk of about two and half hours that takes you along the caldera cliff. Worth it for the views.

The best way to see the whole island and the surrounding caldera is to hop on a boat. This way you can explore the active volcano and go swimming in the crystal clear water. There are a few beaches and areas near the coast that are only accessible by boat.

I particularly like the boat tours because they are fun, informative, and many include food. This one is spectacular and includes a tour around Santorini, pick up and drop off service from your hotel, and includes a dip in the Palea Kameni hot springs . They aren't exactly “hot” but it is a bit warmer than the temperature of the Aegean Sea.

There are really two options for a boat cruise: one without drinks and one with drinks . I recommend the one that includes drinks . Admiring the panoramic view of the caldera as you float by is best enjoyed with a chilled glass of white wine.

If you want to get a good look at the island, take a drive up to the highest peak, at Mesa Vouno. It's best to drive up here and as you do, look at your window to see how the rocks and climate change as you go up. At the top of Mesa Vouno is the first settlement of the island after the last volcano eruption and was said to be used by the Spartans.

There are a few wineries in Santorini and I highly recommend that you head over there for lovely views and delicious wine. We went to Venetsanos Winery for a friend's wedding venue and needless to say it was one of the most beautiful places for a wedding in the world. It was breathtaking!

Some other wineries with views are the Santos Wines Winery or you can also go to Megalochori Winery .

If you want a memorable experience, take a horseback ride on the Santorini coast while you watch the sun set. You'll having stunning views of the canyons and sand formations that line the coast while riding a beautiful horse. This is a laid back and relaxing activity and a great way to see more of Santorini.

Tours last for about an hour and a half and you can choose your time and sightseeing options.

Here, you can peer into the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri and learn about the past settlers who lived here. There is a museum as well as ruins you can walk through.

If you're short on time and only have a day in Santorini, check out some of these guided tours that pack a punch in just a day. I personally like to just rent a car and see the sights on my own if I'm short on time but these offer excellent bus options.

If you're a fan of Mamma Mia or My Big Fat Greek Wedding then you're in luck! You can watch your favorite flick in the lovely outdoor cinema in Fira at the “ Volkan on the Rocks ” restaurant.

They switch every day to a different movie, so you could watch either or both!

It's not hard to find delicious, fresh Greek food in Santorini. It's also easy to find relatively inexpensive, good food. Especially if you're out of the touristy cities of Oia and Fira, you'll find cheap food. We had a meal with 6 people and we ordered a few appetizers, drinks, and an entree each, and our total came to about €37. If you're on a budget in Santorini, or even if you just want to save a bit of cash, it can definitely be done.

Many hotels offer breakfast but my favorite thing to do for breakfast is head to a local bakery. Often, the bakeries stay open 24-hours a day. One of my favorites that we went back to again and again was Family Bakery . They make delicious pastries and also specialize in wedding cakes and even make homemade gelato. They stay open late for the late night clubbers so I recommend going here for a late night treat.

Sirocco is a great little place in Perissa right near the beach. You'll find wood-fire pizza and fresh baked bread. Great prices too!

Pitogyros or Mike's – I love gyros in Greece. Who doesn't?! Both these resturants offer great ones that are a good bang for your buck.

Salt and Pepper – This restaurant in Fira is a mid-range priced eatery with solid Greek food and a few international dishes.

Ouzeri in Fira – A laid back restaurant with outdoor seating and a cozy vibe. Great Greek salad!

For desert, the best gelato I had on the island (as well as the best priced, too) happened to be at Family Bakery !

Admit it, you've come all this way, you want to take an epic picture of your time on the island. I've mapped out the best places for pictures in Santorini.

• The Three-Dome church in Oia – This iconic spot is a highlight of Santorini with the beautiful bright blue downs and stark white church.

2. Franco's – an iconic spot that you must snap a picture of, also perfect place to perch for a selfie.

3 . Alleyways in Fira- Keep on wandering! It will be well worth your time to stroll the streets and find uncrowded hidden gems.

4. Loizos Santorini – This little spot of residences is overflowing with bougainvillea and crisp white walls.

5. Windmills – There are a few spots with windmills around the island. They are easy to find if you drive, especially along the coast. But there are definitely some iconic spots with windmills in Oia at the tip of the island.

6. Yellow Church in Oia – There aren't many buildings in the main towns of Fira and Oia that aren't white, but this bright, cheery yellow church is an exception.

7. Cobblestone walls near Irini Cafe – I love this spot for sunset watching. Here, the island curves around and you have the perfect view.

8. Catholic Church of Stylianos – I love this pretty little yellow and blue church that's perched right on the cliff in Fira.

There are so many lovely churches around Santorini. But make sure to be respectful of signs and be careful to not jump on rooftops.

9. Wander at night – Santorini is very well lit and is a beautiful place to wander after dusk. Here's a look at Fira at night:

10. Perissa Beach – Escape the narrow alleyways and head to the pretty black sand beach of Perissa.

One of the best parts about Santorini; you can't go wrong! There are beautiful photo opts wherever you turn. So get lost and bring your camera.

I've done everything from 12 hours (yes, really) to five days in Santorini. While I prefer my leisurely five days, you can easily see everything on the island in a solid two or three. Remember, it's small! So if your heart is set on island hopping, and I don't blame you, then 2-3 days should do the trick.

Looking to extend your trip and keep on seeing more of the crazy beautiful Greek islands? I don't blame you! My favorite is Crete. Rent a car here and explore as much as you can of this huge island. Other popular islands are Mykonos and Milos. Mykonos is more of a party destination while Milos is known for it's moon-like beaches.

Another option is the beautiful Corfu which is near Albania.

Santorini is a place that quite literally erupts with beauty and oozes charm. It's a place that I'll always hold deep in my heart. I know I'll be back!

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MEET THE AUTHOR

Helene Sula

I believe that one trip can change your life. It did for me. I'm a self proclaimed home body that quit her job, moved abroad, and more often than not, lives out of a carry-on bag. If I'm not traveling, I'm most likely re-reading Harry Potter or watching "Midnight in Paris" while snuggling my dogs. I'm a digital marketing expert who turned my love of travel into a full-time career. And I help others do it too.

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Santorini Travel Guide: Things To Do in Santorini, Greece

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

14 Things To Do in Santorini

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

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

1. Wander the streets of Oia

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

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

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

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

2. Oia’s unforgettable sunset

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

See the best hotels in Oia

3. Discover Fira in Santorini

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

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

Firostefani

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

Hotels in Santorini 😴

4. Hike from Fira to Oia

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

More Greece: Visit Milos Island with its paradise beaches

5. Imerovigli

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

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

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

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

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

Here are all your hotel options in Santorini.

7. Explore the island by ATV or motorcycle

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

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

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

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Prices for renting an ATV/Quad or Motorcycle on Santorini

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

8. Visit villages

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

Megalochori 

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

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

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

9. Visit Red Beach

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

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

10. Go on a wine tour  

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

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

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

11. Perissa Beach

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

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

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

12. Archeological sites in Santorini

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

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

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

Book an archeological tour on the island here.

13. Ammoudi Bay

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

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

14. Santorini Volcano and Hot Springs

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

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

Where to eat

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

Our favorite restaurants in Santorini were:

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

Where to stay on Santorini

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

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

How to visit Santorini

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

Getting to Santorini

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

Check the ferry tickets and prices here .

Santorini Airport

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

Getting around Santorini

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

Santorini car rental

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

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

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

Public transport in Santorini

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

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

ATV or Motorbike rental

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

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

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

Your Budget for Santorini

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

Costs of Traveling in Santorini

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

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

Best Time to Visit Santorini

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

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

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• Find Hotels via Booking.com
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12 Best Things to do in Kefalonia, Greece

9 best things to do in paros, greece , milos, greece: 12 best things to do.

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

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

Hi Grace, we’d recommend visiting attractions first thing in the morning, ideally around sunrise. This is when places are most quiet, and it’s cooler. Have a great trip!

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The Ultimate 3 Days in Santorini Itinerary

White-washed villages, dramatic coastline, scrumptious wine, and awe-inspiring caldera views: the list of things that people dream of when deciding to spend 3 days in Santorini is as long as it is accurate.

This island dances in the dreams of so many visitors to Greece–us included–and we’re happy to report that Santorini more than lives up to expectations.

We were blown away by this magnificent volcanic gem, which is so much more than its reputation as an #instagrammable backdrop (though it does live up to expectations there, too)–and after spending a few days in Santorini, we think you’ll agree.

We’ve structured this 3 day Santorini itinerary to show you the best of the island in just a few days.

While Santorini may look small on the map, you may be surprised by just how much beauty and adventure is packed into this small speck in the Aegean Sea!

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Table of Contents

Day 1 in Santorini: Fira to Oia Hike & Sunset in Oia

Day 2 in santorini: exploring the caldera via boat, day 3 in santorini: exploring the villages of santorini + an epic wine tour, where to stay in santorini, what to pack for santorini, more than 3 days in santorini, getting around santorini, the best time to visit santorini, map of places mentioned in this 3 day santorini itinerary, kick off your 3 days in santorini with the most epic santorini attraction: hiking from fira to oia..

If there’s one thing that you absolutely have to do in Santorini, it’s hiking from Fira to Oia.

The hike takes roughly 3 to 5 hours, depending on how fast you walk and exactly how many hundreds of photos you take (hint: it’s probably going to be a lot).

The hike isn’t particularly challenging, but you will be tired by the end! It’s worth every step, though: hiking from Fira to Oia is one of the most gorgeous and memorable travel experiences we have ever had.

If you’re traveling during the summer, be sure to start hiking as early as you can possibly pull yourself out of bed: there is essentially no shade on this hike and it can get extremely hot! Pack plenty of water , as well as cash to pick up snacks and drinks along the way.

Explore Oia & watch one of the most famous sunsets in the world.

Dazzling Oia is the most luxurious spot on all of Santorini, home to countless luxury hotels, delicious restaurants, and spell-binding views–including some of the most famous ones on the island.

Spend the afternoon aimlessly wandering through Oia–be sure to appreciate the magnificent views from all angles, enjoy a leisurely lunch of Greek food, visit Amoudi Bay, and eventually watch one of the most famous sunsets in the world.

If you’re a book-lover like us , be sure to also stop by Atlantis Books while you are there!

If you’re not staying in Oia, you can catch a bus or taxi at the bus station to take you back to the village you are staying in after the sun sets.

However, if you’re traveling during the summer, be aware that the taxis and buses can fill up around this time, so be prepared to deal with crowds.

Exploring the caldera via boat is an absolute must-do during your 3 days in Santorini–but deciding exactly what kind of boat trip you want to head out on will depend on what kind of travel you have in mind for your Santorini itinerary.

Are you a luxury seeker interested in stunning views and dinner on the water, or an adventure seeker looking for hot springs and a short hike?

Perhaps you’re even interested in both–if so, there’s nothing stopping you from taking an active tour during the day and then a romantic sunset cruise at night!

Here are a couple of popular boating options in Santorini–we personally chose the format of the first trip and had an incredibly memorable time.

For Adventurers: Peer into a volcano crater & swim in hot springs.

Did you know that you can hike to the volcano crater that once erupted to create Santorini as we know it today? Or that you can swim in volcanic hot springs right next door?

Well, you can–and it’s even better than it sounds!

Visiting Nea Kameni was one of our personal highlights from our trip, and we highly recommend adding it to your 3 day Santorini itinerary.

This fun tour will take you to Nea Kameni to see the crater, to the hot springs, and to Thirassia island, all in one day!

And, because this is Santorini, the boat ride to get to each of these places is almost as incredible as the locations themselves.

Book your boat tour to the volcano crater and hot springs today!

For Luxury Seekers: Watch the sunset, admire villages, and enjoy dinner, plus hot springs!

Are you picturing an all-day splurge for your day on the water in Santorini?

This incredibly popular and well-reviewed tour doesn’t include a hike to the volcano crater like the one above, but it does include a meal served on the boat, a peek at several beaches (including the White Beach, which is only accessible by boat), and longer spent out exploring than the tour listed above.

You will get a chance to swim during this experience, including at the hot springs, but you’ll also spend plenty of time admiring beautiful views with access to an open bar and a meal!

Choose the later start time to enjoy the sunset on the water, or an earlier start with lunch if you want to spend the brightest hours of the day on the water before returning to Santorini for a leisurely dinner on the island.

Book your sunset cruise in Santorini today!

A Note on Day 3 Transportation: Tour or Car Rental

For the morning portion of your third day on Santorini, you’ll need transportation to explore.

You have a few options: first, you could rent a car ( check Discover Cars for price + inclusion comparisons) or an ATV to travel around the island.

Or, if you’d rather not be responsible for taking care of a vehicle on Santorini, you can book a tour of Santorini’s villages to hit up some memorable spots without having to worry about navigating the island.

However, we really recommend renting a car or ATV for the morning if you’re open to it!

Start your morning with a visit to Red Beach.

If you didn’t already visit Santorini’s beautiful Red Beach as part of your boat tour (or if you just want a second look), it’s the perfect place to start your third day on the island!

The beach is about a 7-15 minute walk from the parking lot, and requires a bit of a hike down a trail to get to–but it is gorgeous.

Even if you don’t plan on swimming, the nearby views are worth a peek!

Visit the remains of a Bronze Age settlement at Akrotiri.

The impressive ruins of a Bronze Age city may not be what Santorini is best known for, but they’re worth adding to your 3 day Santorini itinerary!

The Minoan civilization that once called Akrotiri home was related to Cretan civilization, and therefore unrelated to the Greek people who call the area home today.

The city is said to have been buried in a volcanic eruption in 16th century BCE, and is one of several locations that are theorized to possibly have been the origin of the legend of Atlantis.

The excavation of Akrotiri began in 1967, and today you can visit the remains of the city, including impressive frescoes and many artifacts found on site.

Explore more beautiful villages of Santorini.

For a small island, Santorini is home to a surprising number of distinct, beautiful villages.

Here are a few to consider visiting on your third day exploring the island!

Want to step foot on a volcanic black sand beach during your 3 days in Santorini? Head to Kamari!

The beaches are easy to access, beautiful, and a great quick pit stop during your time exploring Santorini.

Located at the highest point on the island, Pyrgos is home to some of the most beautiful views in Santorini–and the views while getting there isn’t hard of the eyes, either.

The oldest and often considered the most traditional village in Santorini, Emporio is the perfect place to get a peek at what was once traditional life on Santorini while also enjoying a gorgeous spot on the island.

You’ll pass through Imerovigli during your hike from Fira to Oia, but if you need another chance to admire the village’s epic caldera views before saying goodbye to Santorini, there’s no shame in heading back up!

Close out your 3 days in Santorini with an incredible wine tour.

Santorini’s wines are delightful.

Mount-wateringly delicious and fairly inexpensive, spending an afternoon exploring the many fabulous wines of the island is an unbeatable way to close out your 3 days in Santorini.

This popular tour is the perfect way to explore some of Santorini’s most incredible wines–often with perfect views to match–without having to worry about being responsible for your own transportation of picking a designated driver.

Book your Santorini wine tour now!

When choosing what village to stay in during your 3 days in Santorini, there are two main things to keep in mind: views and price.

Most people who decide to visit Santorini are dreaming of stunning caldera views and infinity pools–and while those definitely exist on the island, you’ll pay a pretty penny for them!

If your goal is stunning views and an iconic Santorini experience at any cost, Oia is the place for you.

If you have the same goal as above but also want to prioritize a quiet environment and stay away from the hustle and bustle of Oia, look at staying in Imerovigli.

If you want to still be in the middle of the action and get that classic Santorini vibe while saving a bit of money, Fira or Firostefani might be the place for you.

If you want to stay in a (relatively, this is still Santorini) affordable location with access to some of Santorini’s best beaches , look at places in Kamari or Perissa.

I’ve linked a few hotels below that will give you an idea of the price range and availability you’re looking at in Santorini, all of which receive excellent reviews and are located in once of the villages I’ve mentioned here.

If you see a property you like and your travel dates are set, let me make a recommendation: book it !

While it often seems like new boutique properties are popping up on the island daily, Santorini is still a relatively small place, and locations come at a premium.

For that reason, I can’t stress enough: if you have a specific Santorini experience in mind, whether that’s an all-out luxury honeymoon in Oia or a chance to see the island on as low of a budget as possible, book as far in advance as you can.

This is especially true if you’re traveling in high season, when properties regularly sell out 6-12 months ahead of time.

Since most properties are small and may only include a few rooms or villas, it doesn’t take many people choosing to stay there to completely wipe a property off the market for your dates.

Makris Beach Hotel (Kamari) — Located right on the beach, Makris Beach Hotel gets excellent reviews and boasts both comfortable rooms and an included breakfast. While you won’t have caldera views, you’ll find that the location in Kamari does help bring down the price as compared to the cost of staying in other villages on Santorini!

Check rates & book your stay at Makris Beach Hotel!

Altemar Suites (Fira) — Boasting beautiful views and an outdoor hot tub to admire them from, you can’t go wrong with the mid-range price, creature comforts, or excellent location near the center of Fira with a stay at Altemar Suites during your 3 days in Santorini.

Check rates & book your stay at Altemar Suites!

Cleo’s Dream Villa (Oia) — This stunning villa is a perfect example of the kind of luxury properties that are tucked into the cliffs around Oia. Located directly below the iconic blue domes and offering both a perfect location and plenty of privacy, this gorgeous villa is home to a hot tub overlooking the caldera, once-in-a-lifetime views, a beautiful interior, and a spacious layout.

Check rates & book your stay at Cleo’s Dream Villa!

Travel Insurance — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and the last thing you want is your 3 days in Santorini to be interrupted by worrying about a crisis. We use and recommend Safety Wing for trips to Greece.

International Driving Permit — If you’re coming from outside the EU and plan to rent a car during your 3 days in Santorini, you’ll need to make sure to acquire an International Driving Permit in your home country, before coming to Greece.

It is required for all car rentals in Greece, and while the rental company may not ask for it, it’s not worth the risk of being refused a car once you arrive in Santorini or getting a fine if you’re pulled over to be without one. 

Travel Adaptors for Greece  — If you’re coming from outside of Europe, you’ll definitely need adaptors for your electronics.

Do you have more than 3 days in Santorini and want to expand your itinerary? It’s certainly easy to do!

We spent more than 3 days on the island and still left feeling like we would love to stay longer, not so much because of a long list of must-see spots on the island that we didn’t get a chance to see, but because it’s just so ridiculously pleasant existing on Santorini that we didn’t want to leave.

If you have more than 3 days in Santorini, consider walking down to Fira’s Old Port and either taking the cable car or hiking back up, attending a movie at an open-air cinema on the island (Mamma Mia and My Big Fat Greek Wedding are popular choices), taking a kayaking tour to explore the caldera in a different way, going scuba diving, walking to Skaros Rock, visiting the lighthouse on the southern end of the island, or splurging in a major way on a helicopter tour around Santorini.

We’ve structured this 3 day Santorini itinerary so that you will really only need private transportation on the final day, as long as you are staying within one of the main villages along the caldera.

Many tours in Santorini provide pick-up and drop-off services, so if you book a tour, you should be able to get to just about anywhere you need to go.

If you prefer independent travel, Santorini’s bus system is very useful and there are plenty of taxis on the island.

However, if you’re traveling during the summer, be aware that these fill up quickly, especially along the Fira-to-Oia hike in the afternoon, when people are all trying to get home after a long day of hiking.

If you’re staying further out in a more isolated property without a bus stop nearby, you may want to consider renting a car for the duration of your time on Santorini if you want to be able to get around yourself.

The overall best time to spend 3 days in Santorini is widely considered to be April – May and late September – October, when the crowds are lower than during the summer but you’ll have better weather and more businesses operating on the island than in the true low season (November – February).

If you’re looking for hot weather and don’t mind the crowds, summer will be the perfect time for you to spend 3 days in Santorini, and even to visit as part of a larger Greek island hopping trip .

We personally visited Santorini in mid-March and adored it.

The water was too cold to swim (October would have a leg up on shoulder season travel for that), but we had absolutely no other complaints: the weather was sunny and beautiful, the crowds were low (we only ran into five other hikers between Fira and Oia!), and most restaurants and tour companies were up and running.

As a bonus, many businesses had high season prices being advertised as starting April 1, so we snuck in just under the wire and experienced perks like a cheaper car rental because of it.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

8 thoughts on “The Ultimate 3 Days in Santorini Itinerary”

Santorini is my dream destination, I will go there very soon.

Thanks for your awesome travel guide. Photos are really mind-blowing.

Mind-blowing is the right word for those views! Hope you have a great time on the island.

Which was the best winery in the wine tour?

We personally only visited one winery on Santorini, which is also one of the most popular: Santo.

We highly recommend it! The wines were great, customer service wonderful, and the views from their deck are absolutely AMAZING.

Prices are a little high for food, but that’s hardly surprising for a famous winery in Santorini, so we didn’t mind.

Hi Kate, We really like and appreciate your writing. Any thoughts on how to best spend only one day in Santorini? We’re tendering in from a cruise ship, and really want to make the best of our day. Thanks for any advice you can give or point us to.

Depends on what you’re looking for, I’d say… if you’re more interested in being out on the water, I’d consider a boat tour. If you’re more interested in the architecture and views around Santorini, I’d head to Oia–it’ll be crowded, but it’s the most iconic part of Santorini.

If you have most of the day, you could also consider hiking from Fira to Oia (or visa versa), which is probably the most typically-Santorini thing to do on the island!

I love your travel blog. I am from UK living in Australia – yearning for an extended Europe adventure. Hubby nursed me through breast cancer over 5 years and has just had surgery himself for prostate cancer. We desperately need a holiday to reset. We’d like a back road – “connect with locals” kind of trip- I fell in love with Santorini after reading your blog. Would like to spend at least a week. Also like to visit somewhere I can attend art classes for a couple of weeks (possibly Italy) September travel would be good as I’d like to swim. Maybe also Athens or Malta or Majorca to explore the history, caves, monuments. Any suggestions re airlines from AU to Europe? Any chance you can help create a once in life time itinerary with me? X Julie

Thank you so much, Julie!

Glad you and your husband both made it through your respective health challenges.

Art classes abound in Italy–I’d recommend looking in Tuscany to start.

As far as swimming/history/caves/monuments, in addition to the places you mentioned, you may also take a look at Puglia, Sardinia/Corsica, and Croatia.

Santorini is absolutely stunning, but if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, you may want to pick a lesser-known island or the off-season!

Unfortunately I don’t have the capacity to offer trip planning services (and I’ve never been to Oceania at all, so I don’t know the first thing about flights from AU), but I’m always happy to answer a few specific questions and point readers in the right direction! Feel free to email me any questions that pop up as you plan.

The hardest part is narrowing down where to go, but the good news is that there are so many wonderful places to see that odds are you’ll have an incredible time no matter where you choose. 🙂

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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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3 Days in Santorini: A First Time Visitor’s Guide and Epic Santorini Itinerary

last Updated: October 4, 2022 greece santorini

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Heading to Greece soon and looking for the best things to do in Santorini? Only have a short amount of time? Don’t fret – you can still fulfill all your idyllic whitewashed Greek Island fantasies with only 3 days in Santorini.

Spanakopita. Sapphire Aegean Waters. Candy colored houses. Gleaming white buildings.

Oh, just a few things that make up the wonderful-ness that is Santorini. If you’re visiting Greece in the near future, make sure you include at least 3 days in Santorini.

And if you follow the advice in this Santorini travel blog and/or this Santorini itinerary, you’re already ahead of the game! Wondering what to do in Santorini, Greece? Keep on reading, my Mediterranean, feta-loving friend!

Santorini is an island that has it all – hypnotic sunsets, volcanoes rising out of the blue Aegean Sea, cave house accommodations, and of course those stereotypical (but equally as beautiful) blue-domed churches amidst whitewashed stone buildings.   As with Rome , Santorini is just one of those places I’d gladly revisit time and time again.

And after visiting 30+ countries , I can easily say that Greece and its painstakingly breathtaking islands are by far one of my favorites.  While three days in Santorini sure isn’t enough, it’s a wonderful introduction to Greek island life and will have you longing for return visits time and time again.

When to Visit Santorini

The best times to visit Santorini are April-May and September-October.  During these times, the weather will be a bit milder (not as scorching hot during the day), and less crowded.  

The weather in the winter months (November – March) is not ideal (definitely can’t go in for a quick Mediterranean beach dip) and many businesses (tour operators, restaurants, and even some hotels/ accommodations) will be closed for the season, although this is beginning to change as more tourists are visiting during these months.

Note that prime time/high season is between late June to early September, and hotel prices will naturally reflect that.

Quick Reference Guide of when to visit Santorini:

• Best beach and swimming weather: June to September
• Best sightseeing weather: March to June and September to November
• High Season: late June until early September
• Low Season/Winter: late November to early March

Where to Stay in Santorini

Tourists choose to stay in four main villages of Santorini, as listed below.  However, wherever you do decide to stay, I highly encourage you to opt for a hotel with an infinity pool overlooking the caldera.  We based ourselves in Imerovigli at Astra Suites during our time in Santorini, and couldn’t have been happier.  Many luxury hotels boast private hot tubs, butler services, fine-dining, and other top-notch amenities.

A few things to note when thinking about accommodation in Santorini:

• There are no big chain hotels on the island. The best spots are small, privately owned boutique hotels.
• If you’re visiting other places on your Greek honeymoon or throughout Europe, Santorini is the place to splurge on accommodation. Once you see the views, you’ll quickly understand why.
• Decide which part of the island you want to stay before doing specific research on hotels. You essentially have two choices: along the caldera (in Oia, Fira/Firostefani, or Imerovigli) which boast spectacular sunset and Mediterranean Sea and volcano views, or on one of the beach towns on the other side of the island (Kamari or Perissa), which are a bit less expensive and right on the beach, but missing those epic views that Santorini is very well known for.
• Note that prices range significantly between hotel accommodations depending on the season. A luxury hotel can cost upwards of $800+ a night during high season, while the same room may cost a few hundred less during low/off season. Just something to keep in mind while planning your three days in Santorini. 🙂

If you’re planning on visiting Santorini during high season, it’s best to book your accomodation at least 6-10 months in advance. No, I’m not kidding. Hotels book up super fast in this area of the world. Aka – if you’re visiting during June, July, August, or September, get on it, fast.

• Oia: If you want to be right in the middle of the action and don’t mind paying a price for it, a stay in Oia is just for you. Top Recommended hotels in Oia:
• Budget-ish: Fava Eco Residences , Aethrio , Fileria Suites
• Mid-Level: Thirea Suites and Studios – Adults Only , Nikkos Villas , Aisling Micro Hotel
• Luxury: Andronis Luxury Suites , Alexander’s Boutique Hotel , Katikies Hotel
• Imerovigli: If you want some peace and quiet and impeccable views, consider spending your nights in Imerovigli. Top Recommended hotels in Imerovigli:
• Budget-ish: Remezzo Villas , Athiri Santorini , Pantheon Villas
• Mid-Level: Astra Suites , Rocabella Santorini Hotel , Casa di Mare
• Luxury: Dreams Luxury Suites , San Antonio, Sophia Luxury Suites, Grace Santorini

• Fira: Santorini’s capital, which has tons of wonderful restaurants and a decent amount of night life. Top Recommended hotels in Fira:
• Budget-ish: Panorama Studios and Suites , Oasis Hotel, Sunset Hotel
• Mid-Level: Belvedere Suites , Fanari Vista Suites , On the Cliff
• Luxury: Homeric Poems , Sun Rocks Boutique Hotel , Cosmopolitan Suites
• Budget: Margarenia Studios , Iliada Hotel , Perissa Bay
• Mid-Level: Anastasia Princess Hotel, Villa the Birds
• Luxury: Sea View Perivolos , Memories Beach

Top Things to do in Santorini

Whether you’re spending 3 days in Santorini to relax with cocktails on the beach/infinity pool, or hoping to add a bit more adventure into the mix, this tiny island (and Santorini itinerary) won’t leave you disappointed. If all else fails, just stuff your face with some feta and spanakopita and you’ll leave happy as a clam.

Despite Santorini’s diversity, the island is rather small so you can really see it all, even with limited time. My top recommendations on things to do in Santorini below, either experienced by me or by close friends!

ATV Tour around the Island

Spend a full day in Santorini by renting an ATV (quad), dune buggy, scooter, or car and explore the island.  Try not to rent an ATV in Oia as you will pay a premium at this location.  One of my most favorite things to do in Santorini, and I made sure to do this both times I visited the island.

A few spots to visit during your self-guided ATV tour of Santorini:

Red Beach : One of Santorini’s most unique spots, and not to be missed!  Note that the sand is full of volcanic pebbles and you will need to take a 15 minute mini-hike to reach the beach down below.  

I suggest stopping for a few photos and then moving on.  Those azure blue waters are just aching to be photographed.

Perissa Beach: This is one of Santorini’s black sand beaches, and a good place to pop down for a bit and savor the Greek sun.  The black volcanic sand is extremely hot hot hot, so take your sandals with you if you go into the water (or run back miserably like I did…)  

This stretch of sand is lined with restaurants and bars, and be sure to grab a gyro and a cocktail here!

Oia : You cannot come all the way to Santorini (yes, it’s kind of a pain getting here) and not witness the charm of Oia yourself.  More details below, but Oia is a great last stop on an ATV tour of the island.

However, beware: the area gets over-crowded and disgustingly hot during the summer months of July and August. But I promise you, even if you’re visiting during these months, an afternoon in Oia is still one of the best things to do in Santorini.

If navigating the island via ATV scares your socks off, consider joining a bus tour to all the hot spots in Santorini. Not only will you visit Santorini’s most popular sites and learn about its history, but you’ll also visit traditional villages, volcanic beaches and witness one of those spectacular Oia sunsets everyone raves about!

If you want to guarantee you see the island and have enough time for the beach (on another day), I highly recommend joining this tour in order to get it all in. Read reviews and book your full-day bus tour here.

Santorini Wine Tour

Calling all wine-lovers. I repeat! Attention wine lovers! A half-day wine tour is a must on any three day Santorini itinerary. Santorini wines are some of the best in Greece, and this half-day wine tour takes you to three of the best wineries on the island.

Not only will you sample 12 different wine styles (yes, really 12!), but these wines will be served with cheese, salami, and Greek olives. #yesplease

And since you’ll be probably a bit wobbly after all these tastings, thankfully the tour includes complimentary pickup and drop off service, from all hotels/apartments throughout Santorini (including Oia and Fira). One less thing to worry about. Read reviews and book your wine tour here.  

Wondering what to do in Santorini, Greece besides hit up the beach? WINE, my friend.  Don’t miss this.

Foot Path Hike from Fira to Oia

The views, the landscapes, the peacefulness – you’ll be glad you took this stroll along the caldera. The walk takes about three hours, but the views are 100% worth it!  Be sure to take a decent amount of water with you, as the stalls are few and far between.  You may not find water for over an hour.  

However, it’s not a good choice for those with vertigo – take the bus or your ATV to Oia instead!

Boat Cruise to Nea Kameni and Hot Springs

Since the island was formed via volcano, it’s quite appropriate to visit the volcanic island of Nea Kameni by no other than sailing to it! You’ll have the opportunity to walk up the ascending soil path, and approach the crater of the active volcano.

Your second stop will bring you to the second lava island of Palea Kameni, where you can swim in the green sulphur waters of the hot springs. Make sure to wear your bathing suit! Read reviews and book your boat cruise here.

Definitely one of more active things to do in Santorini, and a good option if you like being on the water and/or are exhausted from laying out at the pool (should that ever happen…).

Santorini Cooking Class

With all those Mediterranean flavors you’ve hopefully been tasting during your meals, you may be wishing you can recreate these at home! You’re in luck, because this tour will be right up your alley (especially if you enjoy a nice wine or two).

Not only will you learn how to cook with a professional chef, but you’ll also visit premier wineries in the Greek countryside (with 9 wine tastings!), taste traditional Greek aperitifs such as Raki and Ouzo, and enjoy a complimentary lunch in a traditional restaurant. Read reviews and book your cooking class/wine tour here.

Watch the sunset

Yes, the sunset in Oia is pure magic, but the sunset from Imerovigli is just as spectacular, and with way less crowds.  If you have your heart set on the famed Oia sunset, be sure to get there especially early in order to claim your spot.  

When I say it gets crowded, it really gets ridiculously crowded, meaning you’ll be sharing your romantic sunset spot with 100’s of other people.  If you booked a hotel in either Oia or Imerovigli, simply hang on your terrace/balcony and watch the sun dip below the sea alone, a glass of bubbly optional.  😉

Explore Oia

Oia is stunning.  There’s just no other words for it.  There are postcard views at every corner you turn, but because of this, it’s also the busiest town on all of the island.  Don’t let this deter you from visiting though – as Oia just cannot be missed.  Wander around to the cliff side by walking down random steps you find, and you’ll come across those spectacular views you came for.  

After exploring the town of Oia, make your way down the many steps to Ammoudi Bay , the little fishing village below.  You’ll be greeted with a different view of Oia, including fishermen catching their fish of the day.  Enjoy a fantastic seafood meal here, seaside!  

Feeling adventurous?  Head east along the path a bit, and you’ll come across a tiny island located just off the shore.  This spot is super popular for cliff jumping (ahhhh) and swimming.  

Tired?  You can hire a donkey to take you back up to Oia, but I don’t condone it as I’m not sure how the animals are treated.  Be sure to take a photo though – they are seriously cute adorned in all their fancy decorations!  

Go scuba diving

Santorini boasts crystal clear ocean waters, so put on your gear and get below the water!   You’ll see plenty of colorful fish, a shipwreck or two, all while swimming in some of the most beautiful waters of the world.

Never been scuba diving before?  Don’t fret – there are numerous companies offering Discover Scuba lessons, who will teach you all the necessary requirements before suiting up and getting into the waters.  

Relax at your Hotel

Sure, you may have come to Santorini to see the sites, but nothing is better than spending a bit of time relaxing at your hotel, especially if you’re on your honeymoon.  In order to fully maximize this experience, I highly advise you to choose accommodation on the caldera with an infinity pool overlooking the scenic Mediterranean Sea.  

And plus, if you’re visiting in the heat of the summer, any respite from the scorching temps will be an absolute haven. Plan to spend at least one half day during your 3 days in Santorini to just chill on a chaise lounge, some wine or cocktail in hand.

Where and What to Eat

If you’ve got heaps more time after you’ve completed all the things to do in Santorini, just spend the rest of your days eating. Santorini is a haven for Mediterranean food lovers, and there’s enough variety to try different dishes at every meal.

My favorites: fava beans, saganaki, spanakopita, gyros, and Greek salad, but you can’t go wrong with any on the list.

Recommended Restaurants:

• Seafood dinner/meal at Dimitris
• Ammoudi Fish Tavern
• Nikolas Taverna
• Lucky’s Souvlaki
• Gyros at Pito Gyros in Oia
• Breakfast at Mylos Bar Restaurant in Firostefani
• Best restaurants with caldera view: Mezzo, Athenian House, Argo, Naoussa, La Maison, and Ambrosia.
• Best coffee in Santorini is at Passaggio (Oia) and Pure (Fira).

Things to eat during your 3 days in Santorini:

• Tomato Gefthedes (tomato fritters)
• Spanakopita (spinach pie)
• Saganaki (fried cheese in filo pastry covered in honey)
• Greek Salad – eat all the feta and then some.
• Souvlaki and Gyros
• Keftes/Kofta (ground meat, kind of like sausages)
• Pomegranates
• Roasted Greek lamb
• Fava me Koukia (mashed up fava beans)
• Mythos Beer

Are you heading to Greece soon? What are you most looking forward to on your Santorini itinerary?!

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November 29, 2017 at 11:40 pm

I wish I had read this before I went. I spent three days there with my sister last year and loved every minute of it. Such an incredible place!

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Santorini Travel Blog

This is my Santorini Travel blog!

Santorini  is probably the most famous greek island, with millions of tourists every year and hundreds of things to see and do. In my Santorini travel blog , I want to show you the secrets of Santorini and how you can make the best of your time on this beautiful greek island. But Santorini can also feel like a tourist trap if you don’t really know where to go and how to find the best places to eat or the best things to do. There is definitely more to the island than just a sunset in Oia or shopping at Fira . This is my Santorini Travel Guide and my Santorini Secrets! All my handpicked guides and reviews will give you all the tools you need for a perfect trip to Santorini and the rest of the greek islands .

Get my secrets for Greece and Santorini in your email!

Make sure you also visit my other travel blogs and guides:  Mykonos Travel Guide ,  Crete Travel Guide , Athens Travel Guide , Paros Travel Guide and Amorgos Travel Guide .

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

🛏️ Santorini Hotels

• Where To Stay in Santorini The area you stay on the island can make or break your holidays
• Best Hotels in Santorini (these are simply the most impressive)
• Best Villas in Santorini (these can fit more than 6 people)
• Best 5-Star Hotels in Santorini (these are the most luxurious and most expensive hotels on the island)
• Best Honeymoon Hotels in Santorini (they all have the romantic factor)
• Best Cheap Hotels in Santorini (all very decent and clean)
• Best Family Hotels in Santorini A list of the best family-friendly hotels for visiting Santorini with kids.
• Best Beach Hotels in Santorin i (perfect for families and seniors, but no views)
• Best Private Pools in Santorini (some of the most impressive in the world)
• Best Hotels in Fira (Fira is the capital of the island and transport hub)
• Best Hotels in Oia (Oia is considered the most romantic of all towns)
• Best Hotels in Imerovigli (Imerovigli is the less known town but equally beautiful with amazing new hotels)
• Best Hotels in Pyrgos Santorini Pyrgos is the best alternative area to stay in Santorini with stunning sunset views and no crowds
• Best Hotels in Perissa & Perivolos beaches Perivolos and Perissa are the famous black beach of Santorini, and they offer much more affordable accommodation options
• Best Hotels in Kamari Kamari is the second most famous beach in Santorini and it’s ideal for families as there are lots of cafes, restaurants and beach bars
• Best Airbnb in Santorini (but bear in mind all of those and even more are on Booking.com)
• Best Cave Hotels in Santorini (these are the most impressive and most romantic hotels on the island)

🗺️ Santorini How To’s

• Where To Stay in Santorini for Honeymoon There are some areas and hotels that are ideal for honeymooners so this list is handy
• Oia or Fira: which one is the best place to stay in Santorini Fira is the capital of the island but Oia is super cute. This ultimate comparison will help you out decide where to stay
• Best Time to Visit Santorini Not every month of the year is the same
• Things to Know Before Planning A Trip To Santorini ATMs, credits cards, supermarkets and other useful info for the island
• How Many Days Do You Really Need in Santorini Would 3 days be enough or you need more than a week?
• How To Get From Athens To Santorini Everything you need to know about ferries and planes
• How To Get From Mykonos To Santorini The 2 most famous greek islands are actually well connected
• How To Get From Crete to Santorini Crete is very close to Santorini and a daytrip is possible
• How To Get Around in Santorini All you need to know about buses, quads, care rentals, taxis etc
• Santorini Ferries Map This is my handmade London Underground-style map of all ferries to and from Santorini
• Santorini to Ios Ferries A day trip to Ios island from Santorini is definitely doable and can be a great experience
• Santorini to Naxos Ferries Visiting Naxos from Santorini is pretty easy, with many ferries options on a daily basis
• Santorini to Milos Ferries A trip to Milos is doable from Santorini but definitely not very cheap for a 2 hour journey.
• Mykonos vs Santorini The greek island comparison battle (best hotels, restaurants and which one is for whom)
• Crete or Santorini If you are looking to visit one of these 2 islands, you need to read this comparison as I am explaining all the differences and similarities.
• Santorini or Milos Both islands are very similar geology-wise but they are quite different as Milos is a very quiet island with some of the most diverse beaches in Greece.
• 24 hours in Santorini What you should see and do if you only have one day in Santorini or you are coming to the island from a cruise ship
• Santorini Bus Schedule Buses are cheap and reliable on the island
• Santorini in the Winter: What to Expect Santorini is a very different place between November-April
• Santorini Weather per month It’s not always sunny and warm…
• Santorini in January: What to Expect January is the heart of the winter and the coldest month of the year but it can still be a good time to visit Santorini
• Santorini in September: What to Expect September is probably the best month to visit Santorini weather-wise
• Santorini in October: What to Expect October is the last month of the high season and it’s ideal if you want to avoid the tourist masses or the cruise ships
• Santorini in April: What to Expect April is a quiet month fo the island but the Greek Easter celebrations make it very attractive; you won;t be able to swim in the sea though as the water is still cold
• Santorini in May: What to Expect May in Santorini is one of the best months to visit the island because it’s the shoulder season with less crowds but great weather
• Santorini in June: What to Expect June in Santorini is summer in full throttle with excellent warm weather but with less crowds; it’s without a doubt a great month to visit the island
• Santorini Italy A complete guide to the famous greek island that…is NOT in Italy! 😂
• Santorini Cruise Ship Schedule This is the most up to date Santorini Cruise Port Schedule that you can find.

🏖️ Things To Do in Santorini

• Best Things To Do in Santorini 32 really unique things you can do while on the island
• Best Things To Do in Santorini for Couples These are the most romantic things you can do in Santorini
• Best Wineries in Santorini Wine tasting is by far one of the best things you can do on the island
• Best Things to Do in Oia Watching the famous sunset is not the only thing you can do in this beautifule town
• Best Things to Do in Pyrgos Santorini Pyrgos provides an alternative side of the island with some very interesting activities and places to visit
• Best Restaurants in Santorini These are some of the most impressive restaurants in Europe
• Akrotiri Santorini Prehistoric City: All You Need to Know Akrotiri prehistoric Archaeological Site is one of the most impressive cultural attractions in Santorini and in Greece
• Santos Winery An honest review of one of the most famous wineries on the island with its magnificent terrace and local selection of wines
• Most Romantic Restaurants in Santorini Dinners overlooking the sea and the volcano. Nothing beats that…
• Best Santorini Boat Tours There are lots of options for a boat tour on Santorini, from a cheap one that will take you to the basics to a luxury private yacht tour with bbq on board.
• Best Sunset Cruises in Santorini A volcano cruise can easily be the highlight of your trip
• Best Greek Islands Near Santorini You can do some great daytrips having Santorini as your base
• Best Nightlife in Santorini The island is not only about honeymooners and you will be missing a lot if you don’t visit these awesome clubs and bars
• Best Beach Clubs in Santorini This is a handy list of the best beach clubs and beach bars you can find on the island with Google Maps directions and their Instagram pages
• Best Tours in Santorini There are hundreds of unique tours you can easily book online
• Best Santorini Beaches Santorini is not famous for its beaches but their volcanic pebbles make them very unique
• Best Hikes in Santorini Apart from the famous Fira to Oia hike, the island has some great hiking trails with gorgeous views along the way.
• Santorini Tomato Museum: All You Need to Know A beautifully restored old cherry tomato factory in Vlychada is now an impressive museum and the best cultural events centre of the island of Santorini
• Best Local Foods in Santorini The island has a large selection of amazing local produce of meditteranean delicacies
• Greek Easter in Santorini Easter on a greek island is a unique experience that you definitely have to live once.
• Pyrgos Santorini The less-known little village of the island with impressive new hotels and stunning sunset views
• Santorini Wine Museum This is a real gem and one of the 8 wine museums in the world with human-size mannequins on display, showing the 200-year wine-making process in Santorini.

🌤️ Santorini every month

Santorini in January

January is the heart of the winter and the coldest month of the year, but it can still be a good time to visit Santorini

Santorini in February

February is “low season” in Santorini and can be a very cold month, but prices on accommodation and food are relatively lower than in the “high season”.

Santorini in March

March is still “low season” in Santorini with the most unpredictable weather of the year and many closed businesses but many cheaper options for accommodation.

Santorini in April

April is a quiet month for the island but the Greek Easter celebrations make it very attractive. You won’t be able to swim in the sea though as the water is still cold.

Santorini in May

May in Santorini is one of the best months to visit the island because it’s the shoulder season with fewer crowds but great weather.

Santorini in June

June in Santorini is summer in full throttle with excellent warm weather but with fewer crowds; it’s without a doubt a great month to visit the island.

Santorini in July

July in Santorini has the best summer weather, but the island will feel super crowded, and it’s also the most expensive time of the year for hotels and restaurants.

Santorini in August

August in Santorini is the worst month to visit the island but one of the best weather-wise as it’s summer at its best. Avoid August if possible though.

Santorini in September

September is probably the best month to visit Santorini weather-wise but bear in mind that it is now considered high-season.

Santorini in October

October is the last month of the high season and it’s ideal if you want to avoid the tourist masses or the cruise ships.

What is Santorini Famous For?

Santorini is arguably the best greek island with millions of tourists every year and some of the most impressive hotels in the world.

Its unique landscape along with its phenomenal views of the volcanic lagoon from its major towns such as Fira, Oia or Imerovigli create a stunning combination that cannot be found elsewhere.

Santorini is visited by many celebrities every year, and it’s easily the first place that comes to mind when someone says the word “Greece”, anywhere in the world.

However, Santorini has to offer more than just incredible views and alien geological formations as the island has some of the most incredible hotels in Europe, and it’s also the home of some of the best wineries in Greece.

Santorini is ideal for any occasion as it’s a very diverse island that has lots of things to do and to see.

It can be perfect for family holidays, for honeymoons, young couples, older couples or even solo travelling and it’s guaranteed you won’t get bored no matter what your situation is.

What is the best month to visit Santorini ?

Santorini is very crowded in the months of July and August and I highly recommend you avoid these 2 months.

Having said that, the best month to visit Santorini is either June or September. The sea will be warm enough to swim in it, the weather will be great and the crowds will definitely be better than July and August.

Even the cruise ships are less frequent on the island in June or September.

However, the last few years, even September started to feel like August as the island is literally packed and it struggles to cope with it popularity.

Is Santorini a cheap place to visit?

Santorini is not a cheap place to visit and it is easily one of the most expensive places in Greece and in Europe.

Its growing popularity has made the island a hot spot for celebrities and tourists from all over the world and whenever there is high demand, there are also high prices.

However, there are still opportunities for more affordable holidays in Santorini and my advice to everyone looking to visit Santorini on a budget would be the following:

• avoid staying in areas that have volcano views; these are the most premium hotels and VIP villas
• try to find a room at the beach side areas such as Kamari, Perissa or Perivolos as these are definitely cheaper
• try to use the local buses in Santorini and avoid taking a taxi (there is no Uber in Santorini) or private transfers that your hotel may suggest as these can become very expensive
• lastly, if you can, try to visit the island off season which basically means any month between (and including) November and March; you won’t be able to swim in the beach but you will definitely experience a calmer and quieter island overall

Which is better Santorini or Mykonos?

Santorini is a far more diverse island than Mykonos and it has many more things to do and explore. Here is my detailed post Santorini or Mykonos .

Mykonos has also recently become a rich people’s playground where most celebrities and rich kids spend their holidays in the summer.

Is that a bad thing?

Yes, it is in my opinion because it has completely transformed the demographics of the island and it has skyrocketed the prices of everything (hotels, tours, restaurants).

However, Mykonos is still worth a visit as it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful greek island with some of the best beaches in Greece.

Santorini, on the other, is ideal for every occasion, and even though it’s indeed equally expensive as Mykonos, it’s a much better island to visit overall.

LATEST NEWS FROM SANTORINI

Showing your love in santorini with…a car piston.

June 8, 2023

PETA Germany Urges Santorini Local Authorities to End Donkey Rides after their 3rd Investigation

April 24, 2023

But…there is more to Greece than just Santorini, so make sure you check my other travel blogs:

• Crete Travel Blog: all you need to know about the largest island in Greece and one of the biggest in the world
• Mykonos Travel Blog : all you need to know about the island with the most amazing beaches in Greece
• Athens Travel Guide : the capital of Greece is a foodie’s and culture lovers’ paradise
• Naxos Travel Blog: Naxos is the largest Cyclades island and it has some of the best beaches in Greece
• Amorgos Travel Blog: a complete travel blog for one of the most underrated greek islands
• Other destinations in Greece : less known greek islands and destinations to avoid the tourist traps

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

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

ALL AVAILABLE FERRIES TO GREEK ISLANDS:

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“Better than a travel guide!”

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

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

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

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

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

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

Santorini Secrets

Owned by World Secrets Ltd , Hyett Court, Honour Lea Avenue, E201HH, London, United Kingdom Company Number: 10622010 All Rights Reserved Copyright World Secrets Limited 2024

The Ultimate Santorini Travel Guide

Key Takeaways

• Santorini is celebrated for its stunning views , volcanic landscape, and traditional Greek architecture.
• A visit to Santorini is a balance of leisure and discovery , with its beaches, historical sites, and gastronomic delights.
• The island offers various experiences, including water activities, cultural tours, and tasting the local wines .

Santorini is one of the most popular islands of the Cyclades and the Greek islands in general.

It is one that welcomes you to explore its iconic whitewashed villages on volcanic cliffs with blue-domed churches and vibrant floral decoration.

Here is our guide to vacations in Santorini to take you through everything the striking island has to offer for an unforgettable vacation and cross off your mind any other destinations in mainland Greece. 

Please know that you will experience an unbeatable urge to buy tickets to the island of Santorini for your upcoming summer vacation by the end of this Santorini travel guide .

You may even feel the need to book a Greek island hopping experience on cruise ships. Give into it. It'll be worth it.

The History of Santorini Island

In ancient times, Santorini was a circular island and had very close ties with nearby Crete . In the archaeological site of Akrotiri, one can distinguish the strong Minoan influence.

Nowadays, the island of Santorini has a crescent shape and stands on the sunken crater -also known as the Caldera- of its active volcano, which makes it stand apart from all other Cyclades islands.

The world-famous Caldera is the result of the volcano's eruption during the 15th century BC, which was one of the largest known to humankind. It is also known as the Minoan eruption .

Over the years, the Thera returned to their homeland, and a grand trading island was reborn from its ashes. The last huge volcanic explosion took place in 1950 and has remained inactive ever since.

The Best Time To Visit Santorini Island

As thoroughly explained in our Greece Travel Guide , choosing when to travel to Greece comes down to personal preference, and the island of Santorini, Greece, is no exception.

However, regardless of that, and because Santorini is an island, visiting during the winter would not be the wisest choice.

The Greek islands are infamous for being particularly cold and windy, while due to the small number of permanent residents, they are close to deserted.

On the opposite side, if you choose to visit Santorini during the summer, you need to keep in mind that massive tourist crowds have probably made the same choice as you coming from European countries and the rest of the world.

April, May, early June, late September, and October are considered ideal for those looking to avoid the peak season's hustle.

Visiting during the shoulder season not only provides a respite from the crowds but also can be cost-saving.

How to Reach Santorini

The ferry journey takes 8.30 hours by conventional ferry and 6 hours by speedboat from the port of Piraeus .

Most ferry routes to Santorini depart from the Piraeus ferry port, though there are also several departing from Rafina port . 

Piraeus is close to downtown Athens via Metro subway and is the last stop on the green line, while Rafina ferry port is another option, which is actually closer to the airport.

As a result, the best port for you to choose to reach Santorini depends on your arrival date, the ferry routes, and the place you come from.

Santorini is connected by air with Athens, Thessaloniki, Crete, and the rest of the Aegean islands, with flights that take place throughout the year with a direction to the Santorini airport.

During the summer, flights to Santorini airport increase to serve the heightened tourist needs, while direct flights from cities abroad are also available.

Flights from Athens International Airport to Santorini Airport take approximately 45-55 minutes.

Where to Stay in Santorini, Greece?

If you want to be enveloped by luxury and glamor, you have to stay at one of the Santorini hotels on the edge of the Santorini Caldera to experience the full 'wow' factor.

Moreover, Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli, and Oia have romantic hotels and villas with whitewashed interiors, terraces, and swimming pools that inspire wedding proposals, high-fashion photo shoots, and countless Instagram posts. 

You can browse the Santorini hotels , the hotels in Imerovigli , and the luxury hotels in Oia to make an educated decision!

The Most Famous Settlements in Santorini, Greece

Oia village in Santorini, Greece , is the most famous settlement on the island of Santorini, known to the ends of the world for its unique sunset. It is built in the northern part of the Caldera at an altitude of about 120 meters.

It has been characterized as a traditional settlement since 1993 and maintains unchanged the traditional Cycladic architecture.

Oia village has all the tourist infrastructure of a modern destination . It boasts a rich market with shops and public transport that connects it daily with many itineraries, especially in the summer months, with Fira, the island's capital, which is about 11 km away.

Imerovigli, one of the most impressive villages of Santorini, stands at the highest point of the Caldera since the Byzantine years . 

The settlement overlooks the impressive volcano from a height of about 300 meters from the sea and is located approximately 3 kilometers northwest of Fira, on the road to Oia.

Apart from the asphalt road, the village is connected with the capital of Santorini with a path that offers endless views of the unique volcanic landscape.

As it is a declared traditional settlement, the style of its buildings remains unchanged, with an emphasis on Cycladic architecture .

At a distance of 12 km from Oia, the always-busy Fira, the capital city of Santorini, is one of the must-see stops on the island.

About 260 meters from the sea's surface, it seems like it is hanging off steep cliffs, dressed in stark white, causing every visitor's admiration.

The unique location of Fira on the Santorini Caldera offers stunning views of Nea and Palia Kameni and the southern Aegean Sea. 

When visiting Fira, don't forget to visit the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, the Gyzi Palace, and the Santozeum art space .

What's more, to enjoy your acquaintance with Fira to the fullest, you can climb the 588 steps from the Old Port.

An alternative is the cable car that runs daily every 20 minutes, from 07:00 to 22:20. In fact, we highly suggest opting for the cable car.

Everyone knows that a cable car is one of the most fun means of transportation in Greece !

Firostefani

Firostefani , which has always been one of the favorite stops of every visitor of Santorini, owes its name to the fact that it "crowns" Fira, as ' stefani ,' the second compound of its name, means 'crown.' 

The view of the Caldera is simply unbeatable, with the cliff being so steep that it causes an addictive combination of awe and terror.

On the way from Firostefani to Imerovigli, you will find the monastery of Agios Nikolaos, built in 1651 by the Gyzi family - a famous and wealthy family in Santorini.

It is considered the border between the two settlements, and it is more than worth your visit.

How to Get Around During Your Vacation in Santorini

Public Transport: Buses operate between major villages, hotels, and attractions, offering an economical way to get around Santorini .

Taxis: Available throughout the island, taxis provide a more private travel option, though fares can vary, especially in peak season.

Rental Cars: For maximum flexibility, renting a car allows visitors to explore at their own pace. Vacation packages may offer rental car deals in combination with flights and accommodations.

Reasons to Visit Santorini

The Volcano

Since Santorini is intertwined in people's consciousness with the famous Santorini volcano, an excursion to it is more than imperative.

After all, it all started from there. You will arrive by boat, and you will have the opportunity to climb the hill of the volcano of Santorini.

Both from the port of Athinios and from the old port of Thira, small boats that will transport you are constantly departing.

The Wine Culture

With a rich history that exceeds 3,500 years, the uniqueness of the Santorini vineyard is apparent.

The terroir of Santorini is among the best and most historic in the world, and the wines produced are just as special. 

The volcanic soil, the pre-deforestation vineyards, and the precious fruit of Assyrtiko make the wines of Santorini an example to be imitated for all the 'Volcanic Wines' and the picturesque island of Santorini a world wine destination! 

Be sure to try as many varieties of Santorini's wines  as possible, always in moderation!

The Caldera and its Sunset View

There are many calderas in the world. However, the largest and most impressive is the Santorini Caldera, with a diameter of 16 km .

The Caldera of Santorini was formed around 1613 BC. The islands of Santorini, Aspronisi, and Thirasia form its outline. In the center are two small islands, Palea and Nea Kameni , which are frozen lava.

Palea Kameni was created by the huge volcanic explosion that occurred in 47 AD, while Nea Kameni appeared about 1,200 years later.

By 1940, two craters had formed on Nea Kameni, where fumes still escape. At the eruption of 1950, magma was shaken from them at the height of one and a half kilometers.  

The Archaeological Site of Akrotiri

Akrotiri , the Pompeii of the Aegean as it is known among the history buffs of the world, is an excellently preserved prehistoric city.

You will find its ancient ruins in the homonymous part of the island under a well-designed bioclimatic canopy. 

The archeological site in Santorini is excellently preserved, and if you want a more well-rounded view of the site, you can complete your experience with a guided tour.

The Best Beaches in Santorini

For many, Santorini's assets include its atmosphere, architecture, and views, but not its beaches, like other Greek islands.

Still, others consider the wild beauty of the sea off the coasts of Santorini as another element of geological peculiarity.

Top vacation tip: If you like spending time on the beach, why not stay in some of the best Santorini beach hotels ?

The Red Beach is one of the most characteristic of Santorini, an indisputable proof of the volcanic activity on the island.

You will find Red Beach in the southwestern part of Santorini , a short distance from the ancient city of Akrotiri , and you will be impressed by its landscape. The Red Beach is not only red in name but is full of red soil!

Access to Red Beach is relatively tricky, but the beach is well organized, with a number of umbrellas and sunbeds and a small canteen.

White Beach

A natural extension of Red Beach , White Beach is even more inaccessible. To be precise, it is accessible exclusively by boat, either from Kokkini Paralia or Perissa Beach.

Slightly organized, in White Beach, you will find only a small number of umbrellas, while you should take care to have water and snacks with you since the beach is not served by a canteen or beach bar.

Glossy black pebbles, beach sports, and deep clear waters. Next to the touristy beaches of Kamari and Perissa, you will find the organized, popular Perivolos Beach.

There, you will have the opportunity to sunbathe in the comfortable sun loungers and swim in clear, crystal-clear waters against the backdrop of the black volcanic sand, a trademark element of Santorini, Greece, that cannot be found in any other part of the world.

Vlychada is an enchanting lunar beach with white rocks. Another incredibly gorgeous and quiet beach on the island is the beach of Vlychada, located in the southernmost part of Santorini, Greece.

There, you can find only one beach bar that, despite offering a few sunbeds, is not loud and avoids disrupting the calm setting of the beach. 

The rest of the beach is accessible for people to lie wherever they feel like it, with dark sand and lunar rock formations in the background. The beach of Vlychada also happens to be one of the last nudist shelters in Santorini.

North of Perissa and above the rock called Mesa Vouno, Kamari adds a similar experience, even bigger and even more organized than Perissa.

This beach is ideal for groups, couples, and families, as it has everything you will need for your bath, lunch, entertainment, and stay in Santorini.

Moving with your rental car to the southeast of Santorini , you will come upon the busy beach of Perissa, the most fashionable beach hangout on the island that has been awarded a ' blue flag !'

It is a large beach with black sand. At the same time, it is very well organized, with facilities for water sports, scuba diving, camping, sunbeds, and umbrellas, but also a wide variety of beach bars, taverns, and hotel facilities.

Perissa is the ideal hangout if you like people, music, and entertainment, but you can find quieter corners a few meters below.

Ammoudi Bay

If you feel like branching out to a more alternative side of Santorini for your swimming adventures, Ammoudi Bay is for you.

It is essentially a small harbor at the base of Oia, the beauty of which only a few people know about.

Apart from incredible deep blue water, Ammoudi Bay offers the ultimate sunset view and is, therefore, perfect for those enjoying their honeymoon or Santorini elopement . Ammoudi Bay is also a local favorite.

Santorini's Nightlife 

Do not expect the vibe of Santorini's nightlife to be equivalent to Mykonos or Ios or whatever party-animal destination you envision.

Is it fun? Sure it is. Is it a top choice for gay Greece travel ? Sure. Does it have a good party scene? Most certainly so. 

However, all this is limited to a specific part of the island, namely, the famous Santorini Fira, which is the island's capital and gathers the biggest party crowds.

Without a View

The category 'without a view' includes the largest establishments, such as Koo Club , Enigma , and Mamounia . All three of them are central clubs of Fira, which are located next to each other. 

There are also many pub bars, such as Murphys , Highlander , Town Club , and 2 Brothers bar , where they specialize in the more relaxed side of nightlife.

With a View

First in the category 'with a view' is Tango Bar Santorini with strong mainstream music choices and refreshing cocktails, on a huge balcony overlooking the Santorini Caldera . 

For lovers of classical music and cocktails, right next to the Tango is the famous Franco's Bar , a historic and award-winning bar that has been open on the island for almost 60 years. 

If you want striking views, good music, and delicious cocktails, then the Tropical Bar is the way to go!

In general, the rule is to go to Fira and stay in the hotels in Fira for traditional clubbing and everything else you can imagine, but outside Fira, if you want peace, quiet, and a laid-back vibe.  

The Best Places to Enjoy the Santorini Sunset

Thousands of visitors have associated their presence in Santorini with an image of a sunset and expect to see their beloved Greek sun lost in the golden waters of the Aegean. 

Here are our favorite places to discover and enjoy this unique spectacle in Santorini, Greece :

• The castle of Agios Nikolaos in Oia
• The Monastery of Prophet Elias in Oia
• The Rock of Skaros in Imerovigli
• The Lighthouse in Akrotiri
• Vlychada beach  

Santorini's Gastronomy

The most popular products of Santorini include the delicious little white aubergines with delightful sweet flesh, and small tomatoes, known as cherry tomatoes .

Fava is also a very typical local product of Santorini that stands out for its deep yellow color but also the full flavor with a nutty feel.

An essential role in the quality of the products is played by the arid, volcanic soil of Santorini, which, in harmony with its dry climate, gives special products with a unique taste, but in small quantities. 

An emblematic product of Santorini cuisine is capers, which you will find in various forms.

For more information about the island's gastronomy and the best places to eat, you can read our ultimate guide to Santorini's food and restaurants !

How Much Money Will a Trip to Santorini Cost?

Undoubtedly, Santorini is one of the most expensive Greek destinations .

To get an idea, depending on the type of accommodation you're willing to book, the average you will pay for an overnight stay in Santorini ranges from around 60€ for a bed in a hostel to around 160€ for a 3-star hotel.

In contrast, a luxury stay in a boutique hotel with a cave spa in the traditional Villages will set you back around 300€.

To sum everything up, an exciting vacation of one week in Santorini can start from roughly 350 euros per person per night.

Of course, please note that these prices are only estimates, and depending on when you choose to experience your Santorini vacations , they can fluctuate greatly. 

Now that you know how much a dream vacation to Santorini costs, don't forget to check our guide on  how many days you should spend in Santorini .

What to Pack for Santorini, Greece?

As with every other  Greek island -or any inhabited island- during the summer , when  visiting Santorini , you should pack light, comfortable clothes to combat the summer heat without forgetting to bring a light jacket for the windy and chilly evenings.

In addition, keep in mind that the bohemian and relaxed holiday mood may require a sandal and a loose dress/tunic/kaftan during the day, but on the island of Santorini, you will need something at night a bit fancier. 

Therefore, make sure you have at least one evening dress and sandals with low wide heels in your suitcase so that you do not have difficulty with high sandals on the cobbled streets. 

Also essential are a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen to ensure a smooth and even tan.

Santorini Travel Tips

• The best way to explore this stunning destination among the stunning islands in Greece is to rent a motorbike or ATV. The car is best avoided as the roads of Santorini are pretty narrow, and parking spaces are minimal.
• The best time to visit the Greek islands,  especially Santorini, is from May to the end of October. However, March and April are equally good times to visit Santorini if you're not too keen on exploring the seaside and beautiful beaches of Santorini.
• Take the opportunity and stay in a cave. These unique houses in Santorini usually consist of one or more small rooms and a rooftop terrace.
• Indulge in day trips from Santorini that can help you explore further the majestic Greek islands and the authentic Greek island lifestyle .
• You can book travel insurance to be on the safe side and explore the whole of Santorini carefreely.

Our Santorini Tours & Santorini Vacation Package

Any tour that your heart desires can be organized in Santorini.

From visits to famous wineries, excursions to archeological sites, walking tours, scuba diving, and sunset watching, you can live life to the fullest with Santorini's idyllic landscape as your background. 

Here is a list of our Santorini tours

• Santorini Unveiled: A Photographic Hike Through Hidden Gems
• Timeless Santorini: A Village Stroll and Wine Tasting Experience
• Bespoke Santorini: Private Customized Tour With Driver-Guide
• Santorini Sunset Wine Experience: Wineries Visit & Wine Tasting
• Santorini Sunset Catamaran Cruise
• Amazing Santorini: Full-Day Highlights Tour, Lunch & Wine Tasting
• Santorini Private Cooking Class and Wine Tasting

And here is a list of our Greece vacation packages that include Santorini Island :

• 12-Day Small-Group Trip to Athens, Naxos, Santorini & Crete
• Serenades and Sunsets: A Trip to Venice, Florence, Athens, Santorini & Crete
• Sapphire Seas and Aegean Dreams: Amalfi, Florence, Athens, Milos & Santorini
• Highlights of Greece & Italy: From Rome to Santorini
• Coastal Dreams: Rome, Amalfi Coast, Athens, Naxos & Santorini
• Cycladic Romance: 13-Day trip to Athens, Milos, Folegandros & Santorini
• Quintessential Greece: 12-night Trip to Athens, Mykonos & Santorini

Final Thoughts

A trip to the island of Santorini is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we hope this guide to Santorini vacations convinces you that it is worth indulging in.

Even if it is just a stop during your island-hopping adventure or one of our Greece vacation packages , Santorini, one of the most stunning Cyclades islands , will mesmerize you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a santorini travel safe.

Santorini is a safe place with minimal criminal activity. Regardless, due to the enormous crowds that flood the island in the summertime, it would be best for you to keep your eyes peeled for potential pick-pocketing experts.

Is Santorini an expensive island?

Long story short, yes,  Santorini  is one of  the most expensive Greek destinations . Its steep price, however, can be justified by the fact that it offers its visitors a unique experience that cannot be duplicated in any other part of the world.

It is no coincidence, after all, that despite not being the most budget-friendly of islands, it attracts around a million visitors year after year without fail, and it is the ultimate  Greek honeymoon destination  for people around the world.

What is interesting about Santorini compared to other Greek islands?

Santorini is one of a few islands within the Aegean Sea and the Cyclades group, although only a caldera can contain human inhabitants on any continent. Its location lies in an underwater volcanic lake.

Some people believe the island was called Atlantis by Plato. Santorini is easily recognizable for its whitewashed buildings of cube-shaped shape with blue accents, steep cliffs, and golden sunsets lit by sunset. 

How can I include Santorini in my Greek island-hopping adventure?

If you're interested in embarking on a Greek island-hopping adventure, Santorini should be one of the best stops in your itinerary, no matter which cruise ships you choose. You can combine a visit to the island of Santorini with a visit to the rest of the Cycladic islands that are part of the island complex. 

Namely, in addition to the island of Santorini, Andros, Kea-Kythnos, Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Syros, and Tinos all belong to the Cyclades islands in the Aegean Sea and are therefore in close proximity to one another. As a result, they offer the perfect opportunity for island-hopping, while you can choose how many of those you will visit depending on the days you have at your disposal.

Santorini Blog 2024: The Complete Santorini Greece Travel Guide

This Santorini blog is designed to help you plan the perfect trip to Santorini. Santorini is a bucket list destination for many travellers thanks to its picture perfect views, stunning sunsets, warm climate and dramatic whitewashed cliffs. Thousands of postcard pictures grace the internet and magazines and woe travellers to this tiny island in Greece.

I put together this Santorini travel guide with everything you need to know about visiting Santorini all in one place. By clicking on the links inside this blog post you can get more information on each topic to help with your planning.

By the time you get to the bottom of this Santorini guide I doubt you will have any questions, but if you do, I am happy to help you out! Just leave a comment at the bottom or contact me via the contact us page!

This Santorini travel blog post includes:

How to get to Santorini

The best time to go to Santorini

What to do in Santorini including where to catch one of Santorini’s sunsets

Sample Itinerary for Santorini

How to get around in Santorini

Best Beaches in Santorini

Best Sunset spots in Santorini

Safety Tips for Santorini

Honeymoon tips for Santorini

Tours in Santorini

Local Culture

What to do with Kids

What to Pack and What to wear in Santorini

Electricity, Wifi and SIM Cards for Greece

Visa, Safety and Vaccinations for Santorini

Santorini hotels and Santorini AirBnbs

Other Cyclades to visit

Santorini Quick Facts

How to Get to Santorini

Ferries stop in Santorini every day bringing passengers and goods to the port. Blue Star Ferries has year round service and SeaJets and high speed ferry service offers seasonal options. In the summer season there will be dozens of ferries coming in and our of Santorini each day, some from Athens and some from neighbouring Islands

You can book ferry tickets in advance for peace of mind but most do not sell out. If you are not flexible in your itinerary, you might want to book in advance. Personally, I booked the day before I wanted to travel by walking into a ferry office. This worked on all of the Greek Islands we visited.

But if you are a planner and want to know that you are booked, book online in advance.

Note that when using the ferries, they usually depart from their first port on time (unless they have a mechanical problem etc) but they can become late as their day progresses. Often they have long voyages and they can   encounter rough seas or port delays.

We were personally delayed 4 hours on one of our routes, so ensure you do not have plans set for your arrival in case of any ferry delays.

Cruise Ship

If you are arriving by cruise ship you will drop anchor in the Caldera and make your way to land. You will arrive into what is known as the old port, Fira Skala and directly above you is the town of Fira.

In order to get to the top of the hill you can choose to climb the steps, take a donkey or use the cable car.

Note that when you return, the lineups can be long to get back down. Ensure you have enough time to get back to the cruise ship.

There are plenty of nonstop flights to Santorini (Thira) International Airport (Airport Code JTR) from European cities and domestically in Greece from Athens.

Flying from Athens to Santorini on Ryan Air can be incredibly cheap! Ryan Air is a ULCC so ensure you read all o the fine print from checking bags to choosing seats so there are no surprises when you get to the airport counter.

Santorini Airport to Fira or Oia

One of the top mistakes to avoid when planning a trip to Santorini is to not arrange your transport to your hotel in advance. After you read this article, check out the other mistakes to avoid when planning a trip to Santorini

If you are looking to take a taxi from the Santorini Airport to Fira or Oia expect to pay around 35 Euros

The bus is the cheapest option to get to Fira and it costs EUR 1.70

The downside to the bus is that it is infrequent.

If you need to go to Oia you will have to transfer at the Fira station to the Oia bus. If you are staying in Fira the bus stops at the central bus station. Expect to be walking UPHILL from there to your accommodation. Something that could be 500m on Google Maps might feel a lot farther when you are pulling a suitcase up a busy street.

By Hotel Transfer

Many hotels will offer a hotel transfer service. Check with our hotel when you book. If you have not arranged a transfer with your hotel, you can arrange a Private Transfer Online.

When to visit Santorini

Santorini is mostly a summer destination with July and August being the busiest time to visit the Island. July and August are major travel times for almost all travellers as most countries have school holiday and most vacationers want to enjoy the summer sun on the Aegean.

May, June, September and October are much less busy and you can still enjoy the sunshine, warm temperatures (not the scorching hot sun that is experienced in July and August)

If you are planning on visiting in high season book your hotels well in advance and expect to wait for popular restaurants at meal times.

When a cruise ship arrives into the caldera, thousands of cruise ship passengers take donkeys, the tram or walk up the steep cliffs by foot and arrive right into the middle of Fira (Thira).

In the off season (November to April) many tourist shops and hotels are closed, but it is a great time to visit the island without other tourists. The weather will be cold, so if you are not a sun chaser, the off season might be a good time for you to visit.

• Best Time To Visit Santorini for Beaches and Swimming: June to September
• Best Time to Visit Santorini for Sightseeing: March to June and September – October
• Best Time to Visit Santorini without crowds: October to April
• High Season in Santorini: Mid June until Mid September
• Low Season in Santorini: November to March

Visas for Santorini

Greece is part of the Shenegan Zone and many travellers can visit for 90 days without a visa.  Countries like the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand are examples of overseas countries that do not need a visa.

You need a passport if you do not live in one of the EU countries and that passport will need to be valid for 3 months after the date you intend to leave the Shenegan Zone (not just Greece).

Several countries require a Shenegan Visa before travelling to the Shenegan zone, you can find out which ones here

Sim Cards in Santorini

A Sim Card can be purchased at the airport in arrivals. I purchased mine on the mainland before coming to Greece. Sim Cards in Greece are quite inexpensive compared to other European countries.

Highlights of Thira: What to Do in Santorini

This Santorini blog aims to cover the best things to do in Santorini for all types of travellers. Whether you are coming for your honeymoon, want a weekend getaway, are island hopping or are enjoying summer break, there is something for everyone to explore in Santorini.

For The Honeymooners

• Watch the Sunset in Oia
• Check out the beaches
• Enjoy a Cooking Class and Wine Tour
• Stay in a Cliffside hotel with a private pool
• Eat Seafood at Amundi Bay
• Book a boat cruise

For the Adventurer

• Rent an ATV and explore the whole island
• Get out on the Caldera by boat
• Hike from Fira to Oia
• Volcanic Islands Cruise

For the History Lover

• Ancient Thera
• Profitis Ilias Monastery

Although Santorini is not known for its beaches, that does not mean that you should not visit them. If you are a beach lover, there is plenty of sun to be had, warm water to swim and beautiful scenery to look at. What you do not find in Santorini is the soft white sand of other islands. This is because Santorini beaches are all rock or volcanic sand.

Kamari Beach

Kamari beach is a funky beach with plenty going on! There are touristy restaurants, places to walk and chairs to sunbathe on (I think it was 10 EUR). The rocks are very hot in the sun so bring your shoes to the shore. There is a decently steep drop off just offshore which means you can swim just off shore but it is not good if you have kids with you (that do not swim).

Monolithos is close to Kamari and is the most family friendly beach on the island as there is decent sand and a shallow slope for the kids to play. Right next to Monolithos you can watch watersports just off short as kite surfers will be plentiful, especially in the wind!

Red Beach is located in the south near Akrotiri. It is famous for its red rock and red sands. You can reach the beach by boat or by foot (about a 10 minute walk). Its soaring red cliffs and unique red sand are the reason people visit.

Perissa Beach

Perissa is another popular black sand beach. It gets crowded with tourists in the summer months.

Perivolos Beach

Perivolos has the longest stretch of black sand beach in Santorini. As with the other beaches it is hemmed in with cliffs.

Santorini Beach Tips

Most of Santorini’s beaches have dark sand or smooth rocks, both of which get extremely hot in the sun! Do not attempt to walk on the sand or rocks barefoot!

One of the downsides that we experienced was wind. It was very windy while we were in Santorini (July) and so bad that you could not sit on the sand as the wind was lifting the sand and hitting you with it! We stood in the water and were fine. If you were on a lawn chair you still likely would be hit with the sand.

If you want to visit the beaches, it is easiest to have a rental car or Quad or Scooter. Makes it much easier!

My Santorini Blog Suggested Itinerary

My personal suggestion for Santorini is 2-3 days and then visiting another Island. All of the islands are so different and offer a different vibe and it is well worth visiting a few others depending on your timeframe and your travel plans in Greece.

You can read my suggested Santorini Itinerary

Santorini Blog Tour Suggestions

When planning a trip of a lifetime, some people want every part of the puzzle put together before they leave and others are more spontaneous! Either travel style is just fine for Santorini (but book a hotel and airfare before you try and visit if you are arriving in high season!)

I also suggest if there are a couple activities you do not want to miss, to book those at least a bit in advance! You do not want your dates to sell out if your schedule is tight.

Volcanic Island Tours

This is a popular activity to do in Santorini. Visit this site to book tours.

If you are a wine lover, or want to learn more about Santorini’s unique grape growing, I have a whole post about choosing the best wine tour

Bus Sightseeing Tour

If you want someone to show you the best of Santorini, check out a bus tour like this one .

How to Get Around in Santorini: Rental Cars, ATV’s, Busses

Part of the reason I put this Santorini blog together is because I found a lot of the information online quite confusing when I was looking to plan. It is very popular for visitors to Santorini to rent cars, scooters or ATVs. You will find dealerships all over, with a large concentration of them in Fira. You can rent a car from the airport or sea port but most scooters and ATV’s are rented in town.

Rental Cars

I suggest booking in advance as it was extremely expensive to rent a car from the airport on arrival.

ATV’s and Scooters

ATV’s and scooters are super popular and come with the risks inherent to them: unfamiliar roads, lots of traffic, inexperienced drivers etc. With that being said, We rented two ATVs and had a great time bombing around the island. If you want to rent a scooter, you must have a motorcycle or scooter license (a scooter license is not a thing in Canada so we went for the ATV and I have kids anyways so it just worked for us)

Busses and Taxis

There are some taxis on the island. They get stuck in the horrible traffic that you will find on the island. We personally did not use them. When we looked at taking a taxi from the airport to our hotel in Fira, they quoted us EUR35 and it is max a 15 minute drive. There is no UBER or Lyft in Santorini so if you do not want to drive nor wait for a bus, taxi is your other option.

A bus trip from the Airport to Fira is EUR1.70 and takes about 45 mins as the bus winds around and stops a few times before Fira. As I mentioned above, they are infrequent. That is the downside to busses in Santorini. And in the summer with the island full of backpacker budget travelers, it can be chaotic!

You can check the timetable here . It also lists the prices of each ride, around EUR2.00

The busses are coach style busses with room for luggage in my experience.

Where to Stay in Santorini

There are hundreds of places to stay in Santorini. Most of them are small boutique style accommodations that are locally run.   Fira and Oia will offer stunning views, but there are more budget friendly accommodations outside of the main areas. They do not offer the views, but some are closer to the beaches.

Santorini Blog Safety Tips

Santorini is a safe destination for travellers to visit and violent crime and theft is minimal. I wrote this Santorini blog to ensure all travellers are aware of the safety issues that may come up in the country. One of the biggest dangers in Santorini is traffic traffic! There is a LOT of traffic on the small island in high season and accidents are common. The roads are narrow and windy and full of tourists who are unfamiliar with the roads and impatient locals who are frustrated with the giant tour busses and tourist vehicles. Tourists also need to be careful when driving ATV’s as gravel on roads can cause vehicles to skid!

Other things to think about with regards to safety is more to do with health. There are a lot of stairs in Fira and Oia and twisted ankles and falls are common. Pay attention in crowds and wear comfortable shoes.

If you are bringing your children to Santorini ensure they are road wise as there are very few sidewalks. It is not stroller friendly so baby wear your little ones.

You can read more on Safety in Santorini

Health and Vaccinations

Can you drink the tap water in santorini.

Santorini does not have good drinking water from the tap. It is advisable to bring a bottle with a filter (like this Grayl one that I use, or Lifestraw is another option) and then you can safely drink the tap water. Otherwise buy bottled water for drinking. I like to suggest a water bottle with a filter to help cut down your plastic uses while travelling.

Vaccinations for Santorini

It is advised that visitors to Santorini and Greece are up to date with regular vaccinations. These include: MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) , Diptheria-tetanus-pertussis, polio, chickenpox and a flu shot.  Hep A and Hep B are also suggested.

Rabies is present in bats in Greece and those planning on caving or working with bats should have a rabies shot before visiting.

Health Advice

There are a few ways to stay healthy regardless of where you are traveling. This starts with frequent hand washing with soap, avoid sharing bodily fluids, keep away from animals, avoid non-sterile medical equipment.

Santorini has a very high UV index. Ensure you wear sunscreen and drink plenty of fluids so you do not burn or end up with sunstroke.

If you do find yourself ill or injured in Santorini the main health clinic is in Fira. The emergency number is 112

Restaurants are commonplace for tipping. But it is not 15-20% like a North American standard. 5% to 10% or rounding the bill up if often fine. You should leave the tip on the table or give it to your server when paying for your bill. Check that a tip is not already charged on your bill before leaving something additional.

It is customary to tip a tour guide in Greece. About 3-5 EUR per person per day  for a group tour or 20 EUR per person per day for a private tour.

Round up the fare of a taxi meter or give up to 10% for an excellent experience

Shuttle Drivers

1 EUR per bag is a nice gesture if they helped with your luggage

If your hotel delivers your luggage to your room, tip 1EUR per bag

Housekeeping

1 EUR per day

Food to Try in Santorini

Greek food has some amazing options and you should not leave before trying Moussaka, Spanakopita, Greek Salad (ohhh the feta!), Souvlaki and Gyros, and Greek Wine

Shopping in Santorini

Whitewashed walls, stunning cliffs and donkey’s might be what comes to mind when you visit Santorini. Whether you are enjoying your honeymoon, arriving for the day on a cruise ship, a solo traveller,  or island hopping with your family there are a few cute souvenirs you can pick up while visiting.

I have a whole post about the best things to buy in Greece.

What to Pack for Santorini

Santorini is a typical beach destination with hot summer days. Evenings will find most people dressed nicely for dinner. You can get away with a full wardrobe of casual wear and summer dresses but you will see many couples dresses smartly in the evenings.

Ensure you bring comfortable shoes for walking as there are a lot of stairs and twists and turns. You will also want good shoes for hiking from Fira to Oia.

Sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and sandals would be on my packing list as well!

Is Santorini Good for Families?

Overall, YES Santorini is good for families to visit but it is not a destination that caters to children. Finding rooms for 4 people can be difficult in high season so ensure you plan ahead. I took my children to Santorini because it was a bucketlist destination for me, and since I travel with my two boys, they came along too!

There is fun to be had on the beaches in Santorini but there are steep drops in some areas right off shore.

As mentioned above, there is a LOT of traffic and crowds in high season and very few areas have sidewalks.

Santorini is NOT stroller friendly and you are better to babywear young children.

What my kids LOVED about Santorini:

• Beaches 
• Riding an ATV around the Island
• Seeing the Donkeys

While I say that YES Santorini is good for families, there are definitely other islands that are better! If you are bringing your children to Santorini I suggest max two day and then hop to another island. After 2 days of hills and steps we island hopped over to Naxos where Naxos town was almost completely flat!

Did my Santorini Blog cover all of your travel questions for your trip? If you have any questions feel free to leave a comment below or send me an email and I am happy to help!

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SANTORINI Travel Guide with Budget Itinerary

How we ended up spending the night at an empty clifftop taxi stand in Santorini in winter is a long story.

But the moral of the story is this: We should have researched more and planned this trip better. We should have known that Santorini in off season is as dormant as its volcano, and that the Oia village is almost empty, but not as empty as the reception office of the hotel where we were supposed to stay. But yes, we ended up sleeping at a taxi stand amid wuthering of the wind in cold, cold December.

And yet, despite starting our getaway on a bad note, it still turned out to be one of our most wonderful trips ever.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

Understanding Santorini

Off the coast of the Greek mainland is a 220-piece archipelago called the Cyclades , peppering the Aegean Sea. On its southernmost edge is Santorini Island, accompanied by a few smaller isles. This smaller group of islands used to be a single volcano that erupted cataclysmically in 3600 BP, creating a huge caldera that is mostly submerged. Today, the largest of the resulting fragment islands is called Santorini.

Although the world, including the Greeks, call the island Santorini , its official name is Thira. “Santorini” is the Latin name bestowed by the Venetians when they had control of the island after the Fourth Crusade. Santorini’s capital and largest town is called Fira, which is derived from the island’s Greek name Thira.

Santorini is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece and in Europe, especially among couples. It’s best known for its iconic whitewashed houses and blue-domed chapels that are perched on the cliffside, overlooking the legendary caldera and its world-famous sunset.

Here are more bits you should know about the island.

• Language : Greek. However, English is widely spoken. Street signs are written both in Greek and English, so going around isn’t a problem at all.
• Currency : Euro (EUR, €). €1 = 1.14 USD, SGD 1.6, PHP 61 (as of October 2018)
• Modes of Payment : Cash is still the most common, but credit card payments are widely accepted too.
• Electricity Info : 230 V, 50 Hz. Power sockets are Type F, which also accept Type C plugs.

Best Time to Visit Santorini

April to October. This period sees sunny skies and generally pleasant weather.

In particular, the summer months of June to September are the driest and hottest, which is great for chasing the beach. However, it is also the high season, so expect the island to be crowded and the prices to go higher.

If you want to avoid the crowd and have the island to yourself (and a few others), travel between mid-November and March, Santorini’s off season. This is when the prices of flights and hotels go down drastically. I know because this is exactly how I was able to visit Santorini: cheap airfare and rooms. But there’s a catch.

In off season, Santorini seems to go into hibernation. Yes, there are fewer tourists but there are also fewer establishments open and transportation options available. In Oia during our visit, there were only three restaurants that were open. Fira was a lot more alive, but still not as alive as you would probably imagine. In summer, there are plenty of buses operating between the airport and Fira, and between Oia and Fira. But in winter, the number of trips per day dwindles that you might be forced to just take a cab if you’re in a hurry, which can push the cost of your trip higher. So you have to plan your trip really well.

The best time to visit then depends on WHY you want to travel to Santorini. If you’re after beach activities or maybe partying, April-October is your best bet. But if you just want some peace of mind or have a quiet, romantic time with someone, winter isn’t bad at all.

Where to Stay in Santorini

Santorini is home to several communities spread around the island. The best place to stay depends on your travel style. Basically, the first thing you should ask yourself is whether you want to stay on the beach or atop the cliff. If you prefer the beach, find a place in Kamari or Perissa.

But most tourists visit Santorini for that gorgeous view of the caldera and the sunset. In this case, pick a village that is perched on the island’s cliffs. You have four great options: Fira, Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani.

• Fira. The capital and main town of the island. This is where most the action happens. Lots of lodging options and tour agencies. Plenty of cafes, bars, and restaurants around. Nightlife is vibrant too. Almost all bus routes in the island start and end at the main terminal in Fira, which means every part of the island is accessible from here. If you’re a backpacker or budget traveler, stay in Fira.
• Firostefani. Situated north of Fira. Just like in Fira, the views here are majestic. It also has the same vibe, with a lot of accommodations and restaurants. The difference is, it’s less crowded.
• Imerovigli. Farther north from Firostefani. Built on the tallest part of the caldera ridge at 300masl, this village is often dubbed the “Balcony of the Aegean.” Small hotels and restaurants abound too. It’s less crowded and less busy than Fira, but less expensive than Oia.
• Oia. The poster village of the island. The photos in most Santorini postcards you see are shot here in Oia. Lying in the caldera edge of the island’s northernmost tip, it also offers a marvelous view of the caldera and the sunset. It is a top attraction so expect it to be heavily crowded with hordes of tourists during the day in peak season. At night, though, it is pretty quiet since most visitors are here on a day tour and are staying in Fira. In winter, most hotels and restaurants are closed, so it gets even quieter. The catch is, it has the most expensive accommodations. One thing I like about Oia is that it’s extremely romantic. If you’re on a honeymoon or romantic trip, stay in Oia.

Top Budget Hotels in Santorini

Let’s get one thing clear first: Most accommodations in Santorini, especially those with a view, are expensive. Even the “budget” options are still relatively pricey.

Here are the top hotels below €120 per night as scored by Agoda users.

• Vip Suites. Oia. Cliffside caldera view. Check Rates & Availability .
• Costa Marina Villas. Fira. NO caldera view. Check Rates & Availability .
• Heliophos Boutique Hotel. Oia. Caldera view. Check Rates & Availability .
• Hippocampus Hotel. Kamari. NO Caldera view. Check Rates & Availability .
• Niovi. Fira. NO Caldera view. Check Rates & Availability .
• Costa Marina Villas. Fira. NO Caldera view. Check Rates & Availability .

Search for more Santorini Hotels

Important reminders.

Cliffside hotels or suites are not for everyone. The hotels and points of interest are connected by staircases that wind across the side of the cliff. If you choose a place far down, you’re going to have to climb back up every time you want to go elsewhere. Because the sights are spectacular, you probably won’t mind. But I can imagine how difficult it must be if you’re traveling with seniors, young kids, or PWDs.

Another thing you have to understand is that not all “hotels” have their rooms are housed in the same building. For example, in some cliffside villages like Oia, accommodations are in the form of a network of suites and villas rented out to tourists but marketed as one hotel. In this case, Google Maps is useless because sometimes rooms don’t stand next to each other, even hundreds of meters apart. Upon arrival, one should first drop by their reception office in a separate location to check in, and a staff member will take you to your room. If you skip the office stop, you’re not gonna know where exactly your room is located. They can also help you carry your luggage because carrying heavy suitcases while winding up and down the cliff is no joke. Trust me, I know.

It’s something that I learned the hard way. Remember, we arrived in Oia in the evening, off peak season. Because we didn’t know this whole check-in shebang, we just followed Google Maps. But again, it doesn’t work here because the rooms are spread apart. We realized that we must check in at a separate location when we were already so far down. So we had to climb back up again carrying our heavy bags only to find the reception office closed. Apparently, the staff didn’t see our message that we would be arriving at night. We tried calling the emergency numbers to no avail, so we ended up spending the cold, windy night at a taxi stand. It was hilarious. Definitely one for the books. We were only able to check in the next morning.

There are lessons to be learned here:

• Choose the location of your hotel wisely.
• Let the hotel staff know what time you’re arriving (which we did) and be sure to get a reply or confirmation (which we didn’t).
• Be familiar with the check-in process of your hotel before your trip so you know what to do when you arrive.

How to Get to Santorini

Santorini (Thira) International Airport (JTR) connects the island directly to many European cities, but most of the flights are seasonal. Athens is the only city that you can fly to and from Santorini year-round. The good news is, Athens is connected to several major cities around the world.

If you’re coming from Manila or Singapore, the most cost-efficient way to reach Athens is to fly with Scoot. Scoot fares to Athens start at PHP10,403 from Cebu, PHP10,704 from Clark, PHP11,198 from Kalibo and PHP10,754 from Manila. These can still go lower when there is a promo. Look:

All flights from the Philippines will have a layover in Singapore. You can take this opportunity to also tour SG while you’re at it. From SG, the travel time to Athens is 11 hours and 10 minutes. Scoot uses a new Boeing 787 Dreamliner, so you can expect the cabin to be spanking clean and well-maintained.

If you want to score ATHENS PROMO FARES, keep a lookout for Scoot’s monthly Take-off Tuesday promotions, which happens every first Tuesday-Thursday of every month, available on their official website !

Athens to Santorini

From Athens, flights to Santorini are incredibly cheap. In off season, you can find roundtrip airfare between the 30€ to 70€ range, offered usually by RyanAir and Olympic Air. If you’re lucky, you might chance upon fares that are only 14€ roundtrip! See screenshots below:

Santorini Airport to Fira or Oia

This is the cheapest option.

• Santorini Airport to Fira. Bus fare: €1.70. Travel time: 25 minutes.
• Santorini Airport to Oia. There is no direct bus from the airport to Oia. You need to first get to Fira and then transfer to another bus to reach Oia. Fira to Oia Bus Fare: €1.70.

However, the problem with the buses in Santorini is that times are tentative. The timetable for summer is different from winter, so you always have to check for the updated schedule. Yes, there is a schedule but it’s often not followed. Not to mention the waiting time.

In peak season, there are too many tourists so prepare to wait in line. In off season, there are too few buses so you might still be in for a long wait. The buses also don’t operate past 8pm. (Not sure if the last bus leaves earlier in winter.)

To see the bus schedule, visit: Santorini Bus Schedule .

Because we arrived in Santorini in the evening, there were no more buses, forcing us to just take the cab. The great thing about the taxi is that you can find one even if you arrive at night. You’ll find them just outside the Arrival Hall.

Before you get into the cab, come to an agreement with the driver regarding the fare. Here are the usual rates:

• To Fira: €30 to €35
• To Oia: €40 to €45

By Welcome Pickups Taxi

Because the number of taxi units in the island is limited, if you’re visiting in peak season or arriving late at night, you might want to pre-arrange a pick up service.

One thing you might want to consider is Welcome Pickups. I haven’t tried this in Santorini, but I have in Athens and I absolutely enjoyed it. Had I known then that they have operations in Santorini, I would have booked them.

Welcome Pickups is much like Uber, only a gazillion times better. At €35, the fare is the same as the regular taxi’s, but the service is fantastic. A driver will be picking you up at the Arrival Hall, escort you to his taxi, give you bottled water and brochures, and provide important tips on the road. If you’re a couple on a honeymoon or celebrating something, this is perfect because you’ll be pampered!

Here’s a quick comparison of the transportation services in the island.

By Hotel Airport Service

Many hotels in Santorini offer airport pickup and drop off service to guests. If it’s a private service, expect it to be a bit pricier than a regular cab. Not all the time, though.

Our hotel in Oia had a mini-van service that is much, much cheaper than the cab. On our way back to the airport, we just booked with them. If I remember correctly, we only paid around €30 (good for 2 passengers).

Bottomline, contact your hotel before your trip and ask if they have a pickup service that you can avail of.

How to Get Around Santorini

• By Bus. This is by far the cheapest mode of transportation in the island. If you’re staying in Fira, you’re in luck. The majority of the bus trips start and end in Fira, so you should be fine. If you’re staying in Imerovigli, Firostefani, or Oia, you need to first take a bus to Fira (Fare: €1.80) and then board another bus to where you want to go. There are also journeys stemming from the villages of Messaria and Karterados. Again, getting around by public transpo can be problematic in winter, when there are fewer buses operating in the island.
• By Group Tour. Numerous travel agencies offer various tour services around the island. If you’re staying in Fira, options are aplenty. Note that the number of tours available drops drastically in winter.

Things to Do in Santorini

Santorini sightseeing bus tour.

GetYourGuide offers a guided 10-hour sightseeing bus tour that would take you to the key attractions in Santorini including the following:

• Akrotiri excavation site , a tour of the civilization that got buried in volcanic ash after the Minoan Eruption in the 17th century BC. Entrance fee not included.
• Red Beach , best known for its red sand and lava cliffs.
• Emporio village , a small, idyllic village with medieval castles and windmills.
• Perissa Beach , a black-sand beach. It’s also the lunch stop. (Lunch not included in the price.)
• Winery , for a quick tour and wine-tasting.
• Profitis Ilias , Santorini’s tallest peak, offering incredible views.
• Oia , where you’ll watch the world-famous Santorini sunset.

✅ RESERVE A SEAT HERE!

Volcanic Islands Cruise

Island hopping in Santorini? Hell yes! You’ll be picked up at designated points before sailing from the island’s new Athinios Port. The tour lasts 6-10 hours. Here are the stops:

• Nea Kameni , a small uninhabited volcanic island where you’ll get to see more of the caldera.
• Palea Kameni , where you get to take a dip in the hot springs.
• Thirassia , which you can explore freely. Don’t miss the village of Manolas.
• Oia , where you have a choice to stay longer and watch the celebrated sunset.

✅ RESERVE A SLOT HERE!

Santorini Cooking Class and Wine-Tasting Tour

This tour will take you on a tour of a volcanic vineyards and two traditional wineries where you get to learn a lot about and sample the island’s signature wines including Vinsanto, Nykteri, and Assyrtiko.

After the wine tour, you’ll be joining a cooking class where you’ll learn how to cook traditional Greek dishes under the guidance of a professional chef. The best part, you get to stuff your mouth with whatever you cooked with some Greek aperitifs like ouzo and raki.

Fira Food Tour

It’s a great intro to Greek cuisine! This 4-hour guided tour will begin with a cup of traditional Greek coffee in Firostefani. From there you’ll have a taste of some of the most sought after local delicacies like Loukoumades (Greek donuts), mezes, Greek honey, and souvlaki. You also get a gulp of local beer and taste some olive oil. This, while taking in the beauty of your surroundings.

Fira to Oia Hike

Or the other way around. This 10.5-km trekking route will take you along the edge of the caldera and through the villages of Oia, Imerovigli, Firostefani, and Fira. The whole hike can take at least 3 hours, depending on your pace and how many stops you make. Along the way, you’re treated to magnificent views of the landscapes and seascapes of Santorini.

Other Things to Do in Santorini

• Scuba Diving. Santorini’s beauty isn’t just skin deep. It also has a wealth of wonders underneath the waves. Intro dives cost around €70.
• Open-Air Cinema , located in Kamari. Enjoy a good movie while having a drink with friends. Open only from May to October.
• Ammoudi Bay , a small fishing village at the base of Oia where you can also catch another unforgettable sunset or enjoy a serving of freshly caught fish.
• Pyrgos Village , an inland community where you can get to see how locals live away from all the tourists.
• Akrotiri , a well-preserved archaeological site featuring the remnants of a community that perished during the Minoan Eruption of Santorini. This is part of the bus tour I mentioned above.

Sample Santorini Itinerary

Here’s a sample DIY 4-DAY 3-NIGHT Santorini itinerary that you may use to build your own. Bear in mind that the prices and times indicated are just estimates. Actual costs and times may vary depending on many factors including season and the location of your hotel. Always check the sunset times, too.

This assumes you’re a group of 2, arriving in the island in late afternoon, and staying in Fira. Feel free to tweak according to your flight schedule and preferences.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL, CHECK-IN 04:25 pm – Arrival in Santorini 05:10 pm – Bus to Fira, €1.70 06:00 pm – Hotel check in 07:00 pm – Dinner, €15 09:00 pm – Back to hotel, rest

DAY 2: SANTORINI BUS TOUR 08:00 am – Wake up call 09:30 am – Santorini Sightseeing Tour, €55, BOOK HERE! Akrotiri Site entrance fee, €12 Lunch budget, €10 05:00 pm – Oia Sunset 08:30 pm – Back to Fira, dinner, €15 10:00 pm – Back to hotel, lights out

DAY 3: ISLAND HOPPING 07:00 am – Wake up call 08:30 am – Islands cruise, €37, BOOK HERE! Lunch budget, €15 Volcano entrance fee, €2 05:00 pm – Back to Fira, watch sunset 07:00 pm – Dinner, €15 10:00 pm – Back to hotel, lights out

DAY 4: DEPARTURE 07:00 am – Wake up call 08:00 am – Souvenir shopping 11:00 am – Check out, leave bags 12:00 pm – Lunch, €10 02:00 pm – Bus to airport, €1.70 03:00 pm – Flight check-in 04:55 pm – Flight out

If you follow the itinerary above, prepare to shell out at least €200 (USD230, SGD318, PHP12,500) , excluding airfare, hotel, tips, and shopping expenses. For good measure add an additional €100 for other possible expenses including tips, incidentals, and taxi fare (in case there are no buses).

More Santorini Tips for the Poor Traveler

• Walk when you can . Take the limited public transportation as an opportunity to walk for fitness! You’ll enjoy the view too.
• Where to Eat . As in most cities in Europe, restaurants at touristy places are often more expensive than usual. But you’ll find the exceptions when you go out of the main street.
• Tipping . When eating at restaurants, locals usually just round up the bill. If your bill is €23.5, they usually just pay €25. A tip of 5-10% of the bill is also common at touristy places.
• Try gyro and souvlaki . Ah, the quintessential Greek street food. They’re cheap and filling! Beef or chicken gyro costs 2-4 euro, while souvlaki 4-6 euro. A serving usually comes with meat, onions, fries, and yogurt sauce. Delicious, too! Salads are cheap and tasty too.

Our Santorini Travel Slam Book

• Best thing about Santorini: Spectacular views everywhere you look. Every nook or cranny is postcard-worthy.
• Something about Santorini that you don’t like: Limited transportation options in off season. When we visited, we were forced to take the cab or walk most of the time.
• Most unforgettable moment: Well, that night we had to sleep at a taxi stand because our hotel reception office was closed. We also had to go up and down the cliff while carrying heavy suitcases because of the confusion.
• Favorite spot: In Oia, there is a family-run restaurant called Lotza. And yes, the food is great. But what we loved the most about it was the view. It just has the perfect view of the blue domes and white houses with the horizon running in the background.
• Favorite meal: Lotza restaurant has this meal called “Rice with seafood.” Yum yum yum. At 16 euro, it’s pretty pricey, but serving is big. Their saganaki is delish too.
• Favorite encounter with a local: As I was looking for ref magnet souvenirs, the owner of the shop asked where I was from. When I answered Philippines, he was surprised. He said that most tourists in the off season are usually from China, but this year he found that most are from Singapore and he was wondering why. I told him that Scoot, a new airline, has launched a new Singapore-Athens route and that I took that flight too. It was the start of a long conversation about Greece, Singapore, the Philippines, and travel in general. There weren’t that many customers so our chitchat wasn’t interrupted at all.
• Biggest surprise: Santorini is eerily quiet in winter. In Oia, we would walk around and never find or bump into any other tourist. We felt like we owned the entire village, haha.
• Biggest disappointment: Limited tour options in off season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is santorini safe.

Yes, Santorini is very safe generally. But as in other places, follow the rules and don’t leave your things unattended. There are some accounts of scams on ATV rentals, though.

What is tipping policy in Santorini?

Tipping is NOT mandatory or expected in Santorini. You can just round up the bill. If your bill is €23.5, they usually just pay €25. But if you’re very happy with the service, 10% of the bill should be fine.

Taxi drivers don’t expect to be tipped either, but you can just round off the meter.

What are the usual prices in Santorini?

• Salad: €6-10
• Moussaka: €6-10
• Burgers: €6-10
• Omelette: €4-7
• Pasta or rice meal: €8-20
• Ref magnet souvenir: €1-4
• Bus fare: €1.70 minimum.

Where to exchange money in Santorini?

Oh, I don’t know, to be honest. I withdrew money from an ATM when I was in Athens, so I never had to exchange money in Santorini. Sorry. :(

What is the power socket used in Santorini?

Power sockets are Type F, which also accept Type C plugs. Standard: 230 V, 50 Hz.

Do I need a visa to visit Greece?

Greece is part of the Schengen Agreement. For short visits, a Schengen Visa is required for most nationalities except for nationals of 62 specified countries which include Singapore, Malaysia, and the United States.

If you’re a Philippine passport holder, you will need a Schengen visa. We have a separate post discussing the visa application process in detail.

Read: Schengen Visa via Greek Embassy

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Hi, I would like to book a tour on 6 February but seems like there is no tour available before 15 February, is there any local bus that travel from Akrotiri to Emporio village, Perissa Beach, Monasterio Profeta Elías and Ancient Thera? From Google, it seems like the bus in Santorini only travel 1 way, e.g. only Fira to Akrotiri, Fira to Perissa, Fira to Kamari.

Thank you for adding how to budget while in Santorini. I know from experience that Santorini is one of the more expensive Greek islands to visit, but there are lots of cheaper options as well! Do you think in Oia that hotels may be the cheaper option over vacation rentals?

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Santorini travel blog — the fullest santorini travel guide for a great trip to paradise island for the first-timers.

Santorini, Greece is famous for the nickname “Paradise on Earth”. Any visitor who has the opportunity to visit Santorini is passionate about the unique architectural beauty with a perfect combination of white and blue tones. Santorini, an island in the southern Aegean Sea, known as a popular holiday paradise not only in Greece but also in Southern Europe. The island covers an area of 73km² and is a remnant of a crater. This place is famous for two peaceful white-green tones, these are also two colors in the national flag of Greece. In Greek, the island is called Thira, but Santorini (Latin name) is still most commonly used. Traveling to Santorini, you will feel the enchanting beauty of architecture, landscape and people here. Not only that, Santorini is also one of the most beautiful for watching sunsets in the world. Now, let’s check it out our Santorini travel blog (Santorini blog post, Santorini blog) — The fullest Santorini travel guide for a budget and great trip to Santorini for the first-timers to Santorini and the suggested Santorini itinerary 2 days from how to get to Santorini, when is the best time to visit Santorini to best places to visit and top things to do in Santorini for the first-time below.

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• Zakynthos travel blog — The fullest Zakynthos island travel guide to the paradise island of Greece for first-timers
• Best 5 star hotels in Santorini — 6 most beautiful, best luxury hotels in Santorini & Top luxury hotels in Santorini
• What to buy in Greece 2024? — Top +13 souvenirs, gifts & best things to buy in Greece

Santorini travel blog: When is the best time to visit Santorini?

The peak tourist season in Santorini is around July and August with the bright sunshine and the blue sky. Because it is a peak season, if you travel to Santorini at this time, you will meet a lot of tourists and the service price will be very expensive. If possible, you should go to this paradise island around June or September and October because this time the weather is cooler, not too sunny, not too crowded and the prices of tourist activities are also cheaper. You should not travel to Santorini from November to March, because this is a low tourist season, most Greek islands are closed and all services are very sparse.

Santorini travel guide: How to get to Santorini?

There are two main vehicles to getting to Santorini from Athens – Greece, which are plane and ferry

You can also directly fly from other European countries to Santorini, but you will often have to transit in Athens (there is no need for transit from Rome to Santorini). One day there are quite a few flights to Santorini by Greek airlines such as Aegean Airlines, Olympic Air, or some low-cost European airlines such as EasyJet, Ryan Air, which take about 45-50 minutes from Athens to Santorini.

Santorini airport is quite small, so if you depart from Santorini you should go to the airport early to avoid have to long queues. Between the airport and Santorini villages there are cheap buses running back and forth, or you can choose a taxi, rent a motorbike and a car as a means of transportation.

If you depart from Athens or other places by plane, you should pay attention to go early because the tourists are very crowded and the airport is small. If you come close to the flight time it is very likely that you have to queue for a long time and the risk of missed flights is also higher.

Note: From Paris you can fly directly to Santorini by Transavia Airlines CV and from Orly airport, however the fare seems quite high.

To getting to Santorini island in the cheapest way and most popular, you should take a ferry. Called a ferry but it is a very large high-speed ship that operating by many operators such as Blue Star Ferries, Hellenic Seaways Ferries, Seajets … but the most famous is probably still the Blue Star Ferries. In summer (from April to October – the peak tourist season), Blue Star Ferries usually takes a trip from Athens from the previous afternoon to arrive early in the morning, saving a hotel night, or having a quick trip more than just 11, 12 am to arrive, and there are many other day trips of other firms. But in winter (low season), there is only one trip during the day from 7:30 am to 3:30 pm will arrive.

You can reserve ferry tickets through the websites below for a ticket price of 37.5 euros / way.

http://www.greeka.com/ http://www.ferries.gr/ http://bluestarferries.gr/en/ https://hellenicseaways.gr/en

If you have pre-booked a ticket online, you should take a bus from the airport when you arrive in Athens to Piraeus port to get a printed ticket. When departing, you take the train from the center to the port again. After that, when you leave Athens, you need to go early for 1 hour in advance to avoid missed your trip, and remember to check carefully to see where the ferry boarding gate of your ferry is where, what is the symbol of the ferry boarding gate. This is very important because this port is very large, you are easily lost.

In fact, you usually do not need to book in advance because every day there are ferries to Santorini and with very large ships, they are very wide and many seats, you rest assured that there are always empty seats, but in the peak months, booking in advance is better. Ferry tickets can be purchased directly from the shipping company’s offices at the port or tour agents. Another means you might consider is the small wooden boats, which is slower but is also an option for your plan.

Santorini travel blog: Getting around Santorini

There are many means of transport in Santorini, such as taxis, buses travel between villages, shuttle buses to the airport, or most convenient, you should rent a scooter, a tricycle, ATV, or a quad bike to travel for the few days. If you have good financial conditions, you can rent a small car if traveling in a group.

Public transport

If you take a ferry to Santorini, at the ferry terminal there will be a taxi or big bus to bring you to the villages on the island, the bus is much cheaper at about 1-2 euros / person. To move from the hotel to the airport you can take a public bus, or ask the hotel owner to call a taxi to transport passengers to the airport for a more expensive price (about 10 euro / person).

All buses, if you want to go to any places in Santorini, you have to change your car at Fira, not straight forward. For example, if you want to go from Akrotiri to Oia, you still have to go from Akrotiri to Fira, then transfer to the car from Fira – Oia.

Before getting on the bus, ask everyone around you carefully, and pay attention to the signboard at the top of the car to know if you are on the right trip, because it is known as the central bus station of the island but employees can not speak English and there is no any signboard.

The operating time, prices, routes of public buses on the island can be found here: https://ktel-santorini.gr/index.php/en/ .

Motorbike rental

To move between villages or places and beaches on the island, you can rent a scooter or a three wheeled motorcycle that look very style. You should refer the prices at anywhere because as in my case, near my hostel I have rent a motorbike cheaper than other places, only 12 euros / car / day while at the shops in Thira center are fully priced at 15 euros / day but still quite complicated about the driver’s license. Gasoline you will have to fill up yourself. Note that Santorini fuel prices are very expensive, about 1.5 euros / liter.

A small note is that Google Maps should not be used on the island because the directions are so silly. If you want to find your own way, ask the hotel reception first.

Santorini blog post: Where to stay in Santorini?

Room rates at resorts, hotels and hostels in Santorini has many levels for you to choose from, if you stay in a hostel and rent a bed, the price is only 10-15 euro / person / night. You should stay in Fira village (Thira) for convenience to travel because it is the largest and busiest village in Santorini, the price of everything is cheaper than in Oia village (Ia). The farther away from the center, the cheaper the price. Before you go you should email to the hotel in advance to ask for information about where you will stay, see what is there, what facilities are available, or have a shuttle from the airport or ferry to the hotel or not?

Tourists traveling to Santorini will stay in the hotels or hotels in the following areas: Fira village, Oia , Imerovigli , and Firostafani . These are the most beautiful and convenient areas in Santorini Island, due to located along the western cliff of the island, overlooking the Nea Kameni volcano.

Oia and Imerovigli are villages with the best views and also the most romantic places in Santorini island. In addition, Imerovigli also has the most famous and highly rated restaurants in Santorini. And these are also the two places with the highest room rates in Santorini.

Hotel room rates in Oia with sea view, the cheapest price is also around $300 / night, the rest is almost $400 / night or more. Airbnb in Oia , renting a private apartment is about $220 – $350, located close to the cliff, overlooking to the sea, very beautiful and cheaper than the hotel. However, Airbnb will run out of rooms very soon. Sometimes you have to book before half a year to have a nice room depending on luck.

If you go to Santorini to watch the sunset, Oia and Imerovigli are the two most ideal places. While Oia is the most beautiful place but also the most crowded, in Imerovigli you can leisurely recline on a long cushion and sip a glass of wine and relax watching the sunrise. No need worry about crowd to looking for a beautiful spot to watch the sunset as in Oia.

If you have more than one night in Santorini, we recommend the first night to go to Oia watching the sun set, and the second night stay at the Imerovigli hotel to watch the sunset with quiet space completely relaxed but the view is still beautiful almost equal to Oia. Imerovigli is also an ideal place for couples who want a romantic space.

Hotel room rates in Imerovigli are a bit cheaper than Oia. With about $100 – $300 for 1 night in a hotel close to the cliff with a view straight to Nea Kameni volcano or / and view to Oia village. The more expensive, the more beautiful the view. Airbnb in Imerovigli offers a private apartment price of $100 – $250 / night. According to our observations, any apartment with a range price of ~ $130 or more will have an extremely beautiful view including Nea Kameni volcano and sunset view at Oia village.

In addition, you can refer to one of the best Airbnb in Santorini: Villa Cloud, heated plunge pool, caldera view, hot tub at $573/night or MORFES LUXURY RESIDENCE (Private hot tub) at $246/night.

–> Airbnb link discounts up to $35 for the first booking here: https://www.airbnb.com/c/anht5185

Recommend some hotels in Imerovigli we went through and see a very nice view: Ira Hotel, Blue Dolphin Apartment .

For those who love shopping, clubbing and nightlife, Fira village is your ideal place. However, in Fira, the view is still considered so-so but cannot be compared to Oia and Imerovigli. And even some hotels / guesthouses have no beautiful views to Nea Kameni volcano or sunset view. So, room rates here are much cheaper than Oia and Imerovigli.

The cheapest hotel room rates for those who have low budget that is in Firostafani village. The hotels in Firostefani are the cheapest in the above areas but still has views towards the volcano. Firostafani is only a 10-minute walk from the central village of Fira and not too crowded like Fira.

In Kamari will have Santorini’s most beautiful beaches for those who enjoy swimming and beach activities. However, you will not have a volcanic view or admire beautiful sunset scene. Furthermore, as a Santorini’s villager said, you shouldn’t go to Santorini just for the beaches here. It does not have stretches of white sand with clear blue sea.

Some luxury hotels you may consider below, all are high-end and view to the Aegean Sea, with swimming pool, massage, breathtaking scenery!

• Fira Village: Cosmopolitan Suites ; Fanari Vista Suites ;
• Oia Village: Katikies Hotel ; Canvas Suites ;
• Imerovigli Village: Grace Santorini ; Condo Hotel Aqua Luxury Suites Santorini
• Firostefani Village: The Tsitouras Collection

Below are some best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Oia Mare Villas , a 4-star hotel with room rates from $174/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Anemomilos Hotel And Villas , a 2-star hotel with room rates from $54/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Apanemo Hotel & Suites , a aparment with room rates from $142/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Costa Marina Villas , a villa room rates from $66/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Blue Dolphins Apartments & Suites , aparments with room rates from $93/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Hotel Kavalari , a 4-star hotel with room rates from $105/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Rocabella Santorini Hotel & Spa , a 4-star hotel with room rates from $266/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

You can find, check rates, availability & booking for Santorini hotels on Agoda.com or Booking.com  or Airbnb.com . 

Santorini travel guide blog: Best places to visit & top things to do in Santorini

Fira (thira) village.

The central village of Santorini, home to play and entertainment services on the island. This is the largest and most populous village in Santorini. You can buy everything here with cheaper prices than other places, from restaurants, hotels or supermarkets that are diverse. Due to located in the center of the island, you can easily go from Thira to other villages like Oia or Perissa and come back easily. Particularly, going to see the houses stretching on the cliffs in Thira also takes you all day, and especially watching the sunset here is also great.

Continued reading…

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Dave's Travel Pages

Greek Island Hopping | Greece Travel Ideas | Bicycle Touring

Dave’s Travel Pages is an essential resource for planning trips to popular destinations like Santorini in Greece. These guides contain information on where to stay, what to see, and how to get the most out of your vacation.

Santorini Hotel Booking Guide

You’ll want to make your Santorini hotel booking as soon as possible as Santorini is one of the most popular destinations in Greece. Booking Santorini Hotels Santorini is a wonderful destination to visit in Greece. It’s vitally important to plan ahead though, because hotels in this popular Greek island often sell out quickly, especially during … Read more

Is Fira The Best Place To Stay In Santorini?

Overall, Fira is the best town to stay in Santorini because it is the island’s capital and has the most hotels, transportation links, and tourist infrastructure. Fira is also closer to the airport, ferry port, and beaches than Oia. Is Fira A Good Place To Stay On Santorini? Santorini, the jewel of the Aegean, is … Read more

Santorini Boat Tours – Choosing The Best Santorini Boat Trips

Take an unforgettable Santorini boat tour for the perfect vacation in Santorini. This guide to the best Santorini boat tours will help you choose which one is best for you. Santorini Boat Trips There are many things to do in Santorini, but one of the best is taking a boat tour from this beautiful Greek … Read more

Kamari – Ancient Thera – Perissa Hike In Santorini

The walk from Kamari to Ancient Thera and on to Perissa in Santorini gives you the opportunity to visit an archaeological site few people have heard of, and enjoy some stunning views. Hiking from Kamari to Ancient Thera and then Perissa Santorini may be more well known for its white-washed buildings, blue-domed churches and caldera … Read more

How to get from Santorini ferry port to Oia

The most convenient way to travel from Santorini ferry port to Oia is to pre-book a taxi. A bus is far cheaper, but involves changing buses in Fira. Athinios Santorini Port Before I dive too far into this guide on how to get from Santorini ferry port to Oia, I will explain the actual location … Read more

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.

• Main content

How to use AI to plan your next vacation and what you should know first

Where should I go on vacation this summer ?

The question is simple enough, but the possibilities are endless.

“Feeling adventurous or more like chilling by the beach with a drink in hand?” Layla replies to narrow the list.

Chilling by the beach sounds nice.

“Alright, for that laid-back beach vibe, how about Santorini with its iconic sunsets or Ao Nang for some Thai beach bliss ? Pick your paradise!” she suggested. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Only she is not really a “she.” Layla is an AI travel planner whose website launched this year, among a growing number of artificial intelligence-driven tools for travel. 

Just over 50% of 1,400 people recently surveyed by Matador Network , a travel publisher and creator of AI travel assistant GuideGeek , said they’re open to using AI for their summer travel. A previous Matador Network survey found 64% of 1,200 travelers surveyed had already used or planned to use AI for trip planning .

Here’s what travelers should know about planning trips with AI.

How common is AI today?

Many people associate AI with large language models like ChatGPT, which can both recognize and generate text, but that’s just one type of AI.

“AI is generally everywhere,” said Yoon Kim, an assistant professor in MIT’s Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Department and Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory . “For example, when you search for something – let's say you search for something on TripAdvisor, Hotels.com – there is likely an AI-based system that gives you a list of matches based on your query.”

“Because a lot of the (online travel agencies) have now integrated different types of Gen AI into their platforms … people may be using them without their knowledge,” echoed Matt Soderberg, principal, U.S. airlines leader for Deloitte Consulting, which named AI as a major theme in changing travel in its Facing travel's future report released in early April.

Kayak and Expedia offer AI travel tools. Google has used AI for years for search. Those familiar “People Also Ask” questions are powered by AI. Google Flights uses machine learning , a type of AI. AI also powers Google Maps’ Immersive View , which gives users a navigable fly-over view of 13 cities and more than 500 global landmarks that users can zoom in on like in a video game, with weather and crowd forecasts for different times of day. 

Early this year, Google introduced generative AI to multisearch queries made with Google Lens. That allows users to take a photo of something and couple it with text questions like “What kind of flower is this?” or “Who painted this and why?” to get AI-generated answers based on data from across the web and links to additional sources.

How do I plan a trip with AI?

Planning travel with AI is typically free, but travelers may need to create platform-specific accounts to access enhanced features or ask more than a few initial queries.

Google account holders can get generative AI results in text-only search bar searches if they opt in to Search Generative Experience , which is part of Google’s experimental Search Labs . Opting in to SGE allows them to ask things like “Plan me a 2-day solo trip to Grand Teton National Park ” and not only get a suggested itinerary but related photos, reviews and links to other resources. 

For Day 1 at Grand Teton, Google suggested a morning hike at Schwabacher Landing “to see the Grand Tetons reflected in the river,” an afternoon visit to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s National Elk Refuge , and dinner at a local Italian restaurant with photos of each destination, links to their websites, pins showing locations on Google Maps, suggestions for where to stay, space for follow up questions, and links to related questions like “Is 2 days enough for Grand Teton National Park?” 

Just above the sample itinerary, read a disclaimer: “Generative AI is experimental” and below it: “Trip ideas generated with AI may include inaccurate or misleading information. Confirm info with sources you trust.” 

For the same prompt, both ChatGPT and GuideGeek – which can be messaged on social media like a person – offered more suggestions of things to do, as well as reminders to check on trail closures, but no specific recommendations on where to eat or stay, nor photos nor links to find more information on any of the destinations. Layla and Mindtrip, an AI travel planner that launched publicly this week, also included links to various points of interest, hotel suggestions, and the ability to adjust and book different parts of the itinerary through partnerships with third parties. Mindtrip allows multiple people within the same travel party to collaborate on itineraries.

Make travel easy: We tested ChatGPT itineraries in 5 US tourist spots

Can AI be trustworthy?

Asking one AI travel planner for the top 10 snacks at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, among classics like Dole Whip and Corn Dog Nuggets, it suggested Mickey-shaped beignets. Those would certainly be a top snack if they were sold in the park, like at Disneyland. However Disney World guests have to go to Disney’s Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter for sweet Mickey-shaped pillows of fried dough.

“This phenomena goes under the moniker hallucinations. These generative AI systems are prone to hallucinating plausible-sounding text that’s actually factually incorrect,” MIT’s Kim explained. “This is, I think, going to be sort of an inherent problem with systems that probabilistically generate output over large spaces.”

"If the LLM recommends a restaurant closed down two years ago, you lose all trust immediately," said Mindtrip Founder and CEO Andy Moss. That's why they, and Layla, also rely on human intelligence for recommendations.

Kim noted there are ongoing efforts to mitigate against hallucinations but suggested double-checking AI-generated answers.

“We want to make sure that that information is usable, that it's actionable. It's clear, it's repeatable,” said Will Healy, senior vice president at Booz Allen Hamilton , the largest provider of AI to the federal government. He heads up the company’s recreation work, including Recreaton.gov , the government’s central travel planning site for public lands like national parks. 

What can AI be used for?

Currently, most Recreation.gov visitors use progressive search to discover and book things like campsites, checking off boxes and reading information provided by the land manager. However, 25% of randomly selected users are being offered more personalized AI-powered options as part of a beta test with AI.

“What we're beta testing at the moment are things where you can say, ‘Hey, I've got three kids. This is our first time camping. We want to go some place that's fun. My kids love the water. We want to try hiking, and my youngest son likes fishing, but he's not very good at it,’ ” Healy said.

“If you were talking to somebody who knew everything about every campsite, then what answer would they give you? That's what we think artificial intelligence can do,” he added. “And it's not just the data that's in the system, but it's all of the reviews and blogs and everything's out there in the public domain that you can pull different pieces together, put together into a contextual answer.”

If AI is able to understand a traveler’s intent, Healy said it could also suggest alternative destinations or experiences if something a traveler wants is booked up or otherwise not available. He said it could also help make public lands more accessible to more people.

“If you have some sort of impairment – maybe it's sight, hearing, mobility, cognitive, whatever it is – that confidence level (outdoors) might go down, “Healy said. “We want to provide you the right information, so that you can get outside with as much confidence as possible and have an experience that matches your needs .”