santorini trip tips

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

Updated On: April 26, 2023

Written By: Pavlos Inglesis

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

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

BEST HOTEL IN SANTORINI: San Antonio

BUT ALSO CHECK:

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

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

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

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

Get my secrets for Greece and Santorini in your email!

Keep reading…

VERY IMPORTANT TO KNOW :

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

RECOMMENDED WEBSITES FOR GREECE:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. What is Santorini?

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

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

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

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

2. Where is Santorini?

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

3. Where To Stay in Santorini ?

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

You literally have 2 options:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

These are the Top 20 Most Luxurious Hotels of Santorini.

These are the 10 Best Hotels in Oia.

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

None of these towns are close to the sea though.

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

But no access to a beach unfortunately.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. When Is The Best Time to Visit Santorini ?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Remember: it’s still Santorini!

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

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

Read Also: The Best Time To Visit Santorini

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. How To Get To Santorini ?

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

Read Also: How to Get From Athens to Santorini

Read Also: How To Get From Athens to Mykonos

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

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

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

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

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

Best Website to Book Ferry Boat tickets: Ferryhopper

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

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

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

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

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

7. Are There Any Direct Flights to Santorini ?

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

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

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

So, basically your options are:

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

8. What Is The Caldera?

Santorini is a volcanic island.

To be more precise it is an active volcano!

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

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

Here is an amazing video showing what happened:

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

Firostefani

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

9. How Many Days Should You Spend in Santorini?

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

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

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

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

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

Is a Day Trip from Athens to Santorini possible?

Yes, it is.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Santorini or Mykonos ?

This is a dilemma that any people have.

They are both amazing islands but:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can also read my detailed comparison: Mykonos or Santorini

Read Also: How To Get From Santorini to Mykonos

So, to sum it up:

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

11. Best Greek Islands Near Santorini

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

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

Read Also: Best Greek Islands to Visit from Santorini

These are the greek islands you can visit from Santorini:

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Best Sunset Views in Santorini

Santorini’s sunset are famous all over the world.

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

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

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

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

13. How To Rent A Quad in Santorini ?

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

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

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

14. Money in Santorini. Do I Need Cash ?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read Also: How To Get Around in Santorini

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

16. How To Rent A Car in Santorini ?

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

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

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

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

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

17. What Are The Best Boat Tours in Santorini ?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

These are the best wine tours of the island:

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

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

Read Also Our Detailed Guide: Best Wineries of Santorini

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

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

20. Shopping in Santorini. Any good?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Best Family Hotels in Santorini are:

Tsitouras Collection
Aqua Blue Beach Hotel
Tamarix Del Mar
Gabbiano Hotel

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

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

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TOP RATED HOTELS IN:

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

TOP RATED VILLAS IN:

Oia: Anemi House

Fira: Anteliz Villa

Kamari: Eolia Villa

Pyrgos: Sensation Villa

Akrotiri: Cavo Ventus

Firostefani: Villa Aura

Imerovigli: Grace Villa

BEST THINGS TO DO IN SANTORINI:

🌄 Sunset Cruise with Meals and Drinks

🍷 Half-Day Wine Adventure Tour

🥾 Hike the path from Fira to Oia

ALL AVAILABLE FERRIES TO GREEK ISLANDS:

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

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Santorini Secrets

Santorini Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 12, 2024

White-washed buildings with blue domed roofs overlooking the Mediterranean in Santorini, Greece

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!

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

Flag-stone-lined street with white houses on either side on the island of Santorini in Greece.

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

People walking around the streets of Santorini, Greece.

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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Santorini, Greece

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

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

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

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

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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.

Map showing possible air and sea routes to Santorini, Greece

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).

The most popular towns to stay in Santorini.

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.

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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.

Santorini Travel Guide: Things To Do in Santorini, Greece

8. Visit villages

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

Megalochori

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

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

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

9. Visit Red Beach

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

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

10. Go on a wine tour

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

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

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

11. Perissa Beach

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

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

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

12. Archeological sites in Santorini

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

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

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

Book an archeological tour on the island here.

13. Ammoudi Bay

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

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

14. Santorini Volcano and Hot Springs

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

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

Where to eat

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

Our favorite restaurants in Santorini were:

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

Where to stay on Santorini

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

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

How to visit Santorini

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

Getting to Santorini

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

Check the ferry tickets and prices here .

Santorini Airport

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

Getting around Santorini

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

Santorini car rental

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

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

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

Public transport in Santorini

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

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

ATV or Motorbike rental

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

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

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

Your Budget for Santorini

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

Costs of Traveling in Santorini

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

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

Best Time to Visit Santorini

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

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

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Milos, Greece: 12 Best Things To Do

12 best things to do in kefalonia, greece, 9 best things to do in paros, greece .

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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Written by CAROLYN BAIN

Top tips for your first trip to

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

With its reputation for dazzling panoramas, romantic sunsets and volcanic-sand beaches, it’s hardly surprising Santorini features on so many travelers’ bucket lists.

There’s no denying the uniqueness of this place or its huge allure: the island hosts 2 million visitors annually, leading some to question whether Santorini has become a victim of overtourism.

If you're planning to join the crowd, here’s what you need to know for your first trip to Santorini.

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

The island is shaped like a wonky croissant, and the neighboring islets hint at the fact that Santorini was once circular. It was known as Strongili (the Round One).

Thousands of years ago, a huge volcanic eruption caused the center of Strongili to sink, leaving a caldera (or crater) with towering cliffs along the east side, now Santorini’s trademark landscape.

Which part of should I visit?

Santorini’s commercial development is focused on the caldera-edge clifftops in the island’s west, with large clusters of whitewashed buildings nesting at dizzying heights, spilling down cliffsides.

Fira, the island’s capital, sprawls into villages called Firostefani and Imerovigli. A path running through the villages is lined with upmarket hotels, restaurants and endless photo opportunities.

These three conjoined settlements draw most visitors, together with the stunning and quite exclusive village of Oia in Santorini’s north.

There’s a growing number of hotels in the island’s south, offering caldera views to the north and northeast. Akrotiri’s views come cheaper than Oia’s, but it’s a fair way from the action of Fira.

Santorini’s east coast is lesser known than the celebrated west. Here, the caldera-edge heights have sloped down to sea level, and volcanic-sand beaches and resorts offer a very different drawcard.

East coast resorts such as Kamari and Perissa have a more traditional (and more affordable) island-holiday appeal: sunlounger-filled beaches, water sports, bars and taverna-lined promenades.

The east coast’s beaches are lined with black sand. On the south coast, there’s a string of beaches famed for their multicolored sand. The dramatic Red Beach is a traveler favorite.

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

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Updated May 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Ultimate Guide to Santorini, Greece

Good to know before visiting santorini.

The Best Way to Get to Santorini

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

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

Best Time of Year to Visit Santorini

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

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

Do I Need a Car in Santorini?

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

How Many Nights in Santorini?

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

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

Where to Stay in Santorini

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

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

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

What to Do in Santorini (Best Things to Do)

See the Sunset from Oia

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

Sailing Day

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

Take a Hike

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

Go Wine Tasting

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

Explore Amoudi Bay

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

Explore Oia

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

Where to Eat in Santorini

Skiza Cafe (Oia)

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

Rastoni (Fira)

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

Aktaion (Firostefani)

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

1800-Floga (Oia)

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

Naoussa (Fira)

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

Ammoudi Fish Tavern (Ammoudi Bay, Oia)

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

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

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

1. Book Your Flights

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

2. Book Your Accommodations

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

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

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

4. Book Your Car

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

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

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

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

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

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

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

Xx, Jessica

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

http://www.thegingerpassports.com

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

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

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

http://www.bodywithmind.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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What To Do In 4 Days In Santorini Greece

People often ask what to do in 4 days in Santorini Greece. Here are some suggestions for a 4-day Santorini itinerary, based on our own trips to the popular volcanic island.

Hottest Greek islands in October - Santorini

How to spend four days in Santorini – Santorini Travel Tips

Santorini is one of the most famous Greek islands, and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Greece .

The strange volcanic landscapes, the blue domed churches and the spectacular sunsets make it one of the most popular destinations for international visitors.

4 days in Santorini - A blue domed church

While some people visit Santorini as part of a longer cruise boat trip, others prefer to spend more time on the island.

Generally speaking, 4 days in Santorini is a good amount of time to enjoy and get to know the island. Needless to say, this will also depend on what you like doing, what time of year you are going, and your budget.

I’ve put together this guide on what to see in Santorini based on our own travel experiences on the island, in different seasons. First though, let’s take a look at which time of year might be best to visit.

Best time to visit Santorini

Most people visit Santorini in summer. As we have visited Santorini in both summer and during the off-season, we would absolutely suggest visiting Santorini in winter if you have the luxury of choice.

4 day itinerary in Santorini - Enjoy the beautiful sunsets

While you might find that strange, it’s much better if you are after views, nature and hiking.

Summers in Santorini can get uncomfortably hot, as the black volcanic rock attracts the sun rays. Most people wouldn’t really enjoy walking around for a long time in the peak heat of the day.

Moreover, several locals have mentioned that sunsets during the off-season are much better than in summer. We can actually confirm that – some of the Santorini sunsets we saw in summer 2020 were in fact not that special. Seriously!

Does Santorini really get so crowded?

The best thing about visiting during the off-season, is that you will be more likely to find some quiet spots on the island and take photos without the crowds.

How to spend 4 days in Santorini - See the sunset in Oia

Considering that Santorini had about 1 million visitors on cruise boats alone in 2019, you can imagine that we are talking about seriously large crowds. For sake of comparison, its population is no more than 20,000 people…

So yes, Santorini DOES get crowded. If this is not your style, there are several other Greek islands you can choose from. Or, just visit in the off-season, and you’ll have all the blue domes to yourself!

The beaches in Santorini aren’t that special

After having been to all the beaches in Santorini, we agree that some of them are very picturesque and unique.

However, here’s our unpopular opinion: we don’t consider them very special to swim on. In fact, this is another reason why we prefer to visit Santorini during the off-season.

By contrast, many of the beautiful beaches in Milos are not only picturesque, but also great for a swim!

4 days in Santorini Greece in summer

We get it though. Not many people can take time off in winter. In addition, Greece doesn’t really feature as a winter destination in most people’s book.

A church in Santorini - 4 days in Santorini Greece

With this in mind, here’s a 4-day itinerary for Santorini during the summer months, allowing for sightseeing as well as beach time.

Getting around Santorini

Our suggested travel itinerary is easier if you have your own transportation. We had our own car and so didn’t need to rent one.

If you don’t want to rely on buses or taxis, you can go for a rental car, scooter or quad. You can also rent a car for part of your stay, and swap some of the activities around.

Before deciding what type of transport to rent, consider that many of the roads in Santorini are narrow and the road surface isn’t always great. Note that some rental vehicles are not covered by insurance on unpaved roads.

The unpaved roads also mean that there is a lot of dust, so if you are driving a quad or scooter consider at least covering your face. This is our car after a few weeks on the islands.

Here is my article on driving in Greece , with a lot of helpful tips, and another one which addresses driving in Greece with a US driver’s license .

Another idea is to arrange for a private transfer between places. This is a hassle-free option which will enable you to sit back and relax, without having to think about narrow streets or parking spaces.

Where to stay in Santorini

Before you decide where to stay in Santorini, it’s a good idea to study a map of Santorini. You will notice that it’s a crescent shaped island, and the west side is the one facing the famous volcano.

Staying on the west coast of Santorini

The west side faces the volcano and famous sunset. There are almost no beaches, only the dramatic cliffside. The main resorts here are Fira, Oia, Firostefani and Imerovigli.

Here, you will find most of Santorini’s luxurious hotels. Many of them have private balconies and pools with amazing views to the caldera, and prices to match. If you want the sunset views without having to drive, it’s best to stay on the west side.

Fira, the main town, is more centrally located and somehow feels more “real” than Oia, which is a famous sunset spot. While Oia is very picturesque, it hasn’t kept much authenticity in our opinion, so we would vote for Fira over Oia.

We would also suggest Imerovigli or Firostefani, which tend to be quieter – though if you are after some nightlife you will probably find them too quiet.

In any case, if you are staying on the cliffside, read your hotel’s description very carefully. In many cases, you will have to climb several steps to get to your room.

This can be a bit of a pain, especially when it’s hot, and will be totally unsuitable if you have any mobility issues.

If you are visiting in the off-season, Fira is the best area to stay, as you will find more tavernas, cafes and bars.

Staying on the east coast of Santorini

The east coast is where you will find the island’s beach resorts, Kamari, Perissa and Perivolos. Here, there are accommodation options to suit most budgets. If beach time is important, it’s probably the best area to stay in Santorini.

We stayed in Kamari the last time we visited Santorini, and the beach was literally a 3-minute walk from our hotel. On the plus side, we got to see the sunrise, and a movie at the open air cinema!

These resorts practically shut down in winter and the off-season. We thought that they looked quite eerie!

How to get to Santorini

The gorgeous Greek island has an international airport. During spring, summer and autumn there are dozens of direct flights from several countries.

If you are combining Santorini and Athens in the same trip, you can get to Santorini airport by a short domestic flight.

An alternative, which is great if you are planning to visit more islands, is to take a ferry. I use Ferryscanner to book my tickets to the Greek islands. It’s a very useful site to find routes between the islands in the Aegean Sea, and plan your island hopping trip around the Cyclades .

What to do in Santorini Greece

Now that you know all the basics, here is our 4 day itinerary of the best things to do in Santorini. It is based on our own time spent exploring the island in different trips.

Keep in mind that we had our own vehicle, and we’d recommend you hire your own in order to get around the island.

Santorini Itinerary Day 1 – Ancient Akrotiri, Red Beach, winery tour, sunset in Pyrgos

As you know, Greece is full of ancient sites, like Mycenae , Epidaurus and Ancient Olympia , to name just a few. Santorini’s most popular archaeological site is Ancient Akrotiri , a prehistoric settlement discovered in the 1860s.

Ancient Akrotiri in Santorini

Human presence on the beautiful island dates from the Neolithic times. The ancient town of Akrotiri, whose ruins are still standing, dates from the Early Bronze Age.

The settlement was destroyed in the 17th century BC, during the time of the Minoan civilization, due to a volcanic eruption. It was entirely covered by lava, volcanic ash and other materials.

Visit the archaeological site of Akrotiri

Much to the archaeologists’ delight, the ancient ruins were very well preserved under the debris. The excavations provided helpful information about the life of the Minoans almost 4 millennia ago.

The site is protected by a shed, which also keeps the heat out. As such, you can visit at any time of day, though we would probably prefer to go first thing in the morning.

Booking a tour of Ancient Akrotiri with a licensed guide will help you find out more about the ancient Santorini history.

Beaches in Santorini – Red Beach, Vlychada Beach, Mesa Pigadia

After Ancient Akrotiri, head to the famous Red Beach . While it’s very picturesque, we didn’t think much to it in terms of swimming.

Furthermore, landslides occur now and then. The authorities often cordon the beach off, but visitors tend to ignore the “no entrance” signs.

The famous Red Beach in Santorini Greece

There are many more beaches in the Akrotiri peninsula, not all of which are accessible on foot. As an example, the White Beach can only be reached by sea.

While we had heard good words about Vlychada beach near the southern tip, we weren’t exactly impressed. The landscape is pretty dramatic though, and it’s a popular option when the meltemi summer winds appear, as it’s fairly sheltered.

Vlychada beach Santorini and tomato industrial museum

Here, you can also visit the tomato industrial museum , which is pretty unique, as are the Santorini cherry tomatoes. Did you know that they don’t need to be watered in order to grow?

One of our favourite beaches in this area was Mesa Pigadia . As it is quite pebbly, it tends to be quieter than other beaches in Santorini.

Here, you can find a small Trekking Hellas shed – this is a big outdoors company in Greece. Among others, they organize kayak trips in Santorini.

If you haven’t tried kayaking before, by all means try, as it’s a lot of fun! Here’s my experience kayaking in Mykonos .

There is also a small family taverna where you can have a nice traditional Greek meal. Say hi to Valanto, the mother-and-manager, and try to have a talk with her if she’s got time.

At the westernmost point of the peninsula, you will find the Akrotiri lighthouse . Surprisingly, it’s not one of the island’s most popular spot for sunsets.

If you are still around the area in the evening, you might as well stay here and enjoy the views without the crowds. There is a small canteen here, and you can get a drink or even a full meal.

If not, you can always head to the nearby tavernas, which are run by very nice locals. We wanted to eat at Captain Dimitris but unfortunately they weren’t open yet.

The old couple running the taverna were very nice and had just picked up a few kilos of fresh capers which they were very proud of.

Visit a winery in Santorini

Later in the day, you can visit a winery in the area. Boutaris , Hatzidakis and Venetsanos wineries are quite close to each other, and you can plan your visit independently.

However, it’s probably easier to take an organised winery tour . You will learn a lot about the famous Santorini wines, and there’s no need for a designated driver!

If you take an evening tour, you are likely to end up at the Venetsanos winery for sunset. The views are pretty incredible!

Santorini Itinerary Day 2 – Visit Perissa and Perivolos beaches, spend the evening in Fira

Apart from the Red Beach, the best-known beaches in Santorini are on the east side of the island. They all have dark coarse sand mixed with pebbles in different sizes.

Perissa and Perivolos beaches in Santorini

Perissa and Perivolos are among the most popular beaches in Santorini. In fact, they are the two sides of a very long stretch of black / dark grey volcanic matter. The south side is called Perivolos, and the northern side is called Perissa.

You will find all sorts of cafes, beach bars, restaurants and tavernas all along the long beach. They offer several types of loungers and umbrellas, with varying prices.

When we visited in June 2020, there was plenty of free space where we could put our own towels. However, there is one thing to keep in mind. The dark pebbles get really hot!

You will either need to sit very close to the sea, or take your shoes with you when you want to go for a swim in the blue sea.

In addition, a thin towel or sarong won’t be enough to sit on – you will need something thicker. It actually gets worse if you go later in the day, when the stones have absorbed the heat. Most people will prefer to rent a lounger.

If you have your own transportation, note that the street in front of the beach closes for vehicles in the early afternoon. You can park here in the morning, just make sure you remove your vehicle before they close the gates.

Here’s more information if you are travelling to Santorini in June .

Emporeio village in Santorini

On the way out of Perissa – Perivolos, stop at Emporeio village. This small settlement was built to keep out any unwelcome outsiders.

There is only one entrance to the maze-like village, and you can easily find yourself getting a little lost while walking around.

Climb up the Venetian castle and enjoy the views. We were entirely on our own there, and it was almost eerie!

Fira town in Santorini

In the evening, go for a stroll around busy Fira town. You can easily walk around the whole village in a few hours. If you are staying in Fira, you will have more chances to find your favourite spots for the best sunset views.

If you want to enjoy stunning views to the caldera, you can sit for a drink or meal at one of the cliffside café-restaurants. As you might expect, these are not what you would call budget options. Like someone said, you get the billion-dollar view for a few extra euros.

Alternatively, you can choose to walk down the dozens of steps, until you find your own best sunset spot in Fira. Don’t expect to be on your own, but you never know!

Fira has two archaeological museums, the Archaeological Museum of Thira and the Museum of Prehistoric Thera . You can buy a combined ticket which covers the two museums and the site of Ancient Akrotiri and is valid for 3 days.

In terms of meals, there is a wide choice in Fira. If you are looking for something at an affordable price, look for cheap souvlaki places. Alternative, head to the more upmarket restaurants overlooking the caldera.

Fira is also good for bars and nightlife. There are plenty of options for all tastes, including Irish pubs and jazz bars. It’s not exactly the party-lifestyle of Mykonos, but you will definitely find something you like.

Santorini Itinerary Day 3 – Visit Kamari / Monolithos beach, spend the evening in Oia

If you haven’t had enough of the black beaches yet, you can go for a morning swim in Kamari or Monolithos. Spend the evening at the world-famous Oia, and have fun trying to take photos without any people in them!

Kamari beach in Santorini

Similarly to Perissa and Perivolos, Kamari is a black sand beach. You can walk on a promenade running alongside the beach, where you will find many cafes, restaurants, bars and ice-cream places.

We liked Kamari more than Perissa and Perivolos, and were happy to stay there for a few days. By Santorini standards, it was one of our favourite places for a beach day.

We preferred the far south end of the black beach, which was also more protected from the winds. If you are travelling with family, this side is ideal for children.

Monolithos beach in Santorini

If you haven’t had enough of Santorini’s black sand beaches, you can visit Monolithos beach. Due to its orientation, this beach is not protected from the strong meltemi winds that blow in summer. As a result, it might not be ideal when you visit.

Monolithos is a long, natural beach where there are normally many sports facilities. It’s popular with locals, and whereas there are some tavernas all around, it’s nowhere as crowded as Kamari, Perissa or Perivolos.

This would be my favourite beach in Santorini on a non-windy day.

Monolithos beach in Santorini is ideal for watersports

Note – Kostas, who rents out loungers and sports equipment, is very helpful and chatty! He’s a good source of information about the island, and he can tell you lots about life in Santorini in winter.

Explore Oia Santorini

With the Oia sunset being so famous, few people can resist seeing it with their own eyes. The small town just on the edge of the cliff is pretty unique.

Aim to arrive in Oia in the early evening, which will give you plenty of time to explore.

If you are feeling energetic, you can walk up and down the (literally) hundreds of cliffside stairs in the village. Many of them will lead to hotels and private villas, and access is often restricted.

Or you may find yourself passing right outside someone’s not-so-private balcony. Yes, this happened to us a couple of times.

There are stairs to Ammoudi beach, where you can find a few tavernas as well as a small port. You can also walk down to Armeni beach, which is popular with locals.

Now, a word of warning: Most of the buildings you will see in Oia are hotels, villas and restaurants. If you are looking for authenticity you will probably be disappointed.

Still, the town is incredibly photogenic, and there are many beautiful places to watch the sunset from. The most popular spot is Oia castle.

You can also choose to watch the Oia sunset from a café or restaurant. If you are going in peak season, bookings are recommended, if not essential.

During our last Santorini trip, we arrived in Oia around 4.30 pm, and walked up and down for a couple of hours. As this was in July, it was really hot!

If you are not used to the heat, it’s probably better to arrive there later, especially if you are planning to climb many steps.

And by all means, wear comfortable shoes! I saw more than one barefoot lady, carrying her high-heeled shoes in her hand.

Here’s my guide on what to pack for Greece , based on my experience of travelling around my country for 40+ years.

Santorini Itinerary Day 4 – Visit the inland villages, take a sunset volcano tour

Santorini has a few inland villages that are absolutely worth visiting. Apart from Emporeio, you can visit Messaria, Megalochori and Pyrgos, where you can see the traditional architecture from hundreds of years ago.

Pyrgos village in Santorini

Pyrgos , also known as Pyrgos Kallistis, is an impressive Venetian settlement on the top of a hill. While you will often see it described as a Venetian fort, it really doesn’t look like the fort you may have in mind.

Much like other Greek villages, the houses were built to keep intruders away.

There are several cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops all around the area. Climb up the stairs and uphill alleyways, and you will eventually reach a great viewing point.

In fact, sunset views from up here can be interesting, though the one we saw in summer 2020 was not very impressive at all. We didn’t even take a photo!

Megalochori in Santorini

Megalochori was another lovely village. There is a mix of new and old houses, which makes it feel more authentic.

There are a few cafes and restaurants in the village where you can have a break – we had a nice meal in a taverna called “Marmita”.

If you walk up from the main square, you will also find Gavalas winery , which is one of the oldest in Santorini. The entrance is pretty impressive! If you would like to visit, make your booking in advance.

Messaria in Santorini

Messaria is another pretty village that you can stop by. The way Santorini’s villages go, this may be the one with the most churches! You will immediately notice the blue-and-white pattern everywhere.

If you are interested in neoclassical architecture, it’s worth stopping by Argyros mansion . Built in 1888, it belonged to the winemaker George Argyros.

After a strong earthquake in 1956, part of it was demolished, but it was restored in the 1980s. Guided tours may be available during summer.

On the way out of Messaria, you can’t fail to notice a crumbling neoclassical mansion. This beautiful building was built in 1893 and belonged to the wealthy Saliveros family.

Unlike the Argyros mansion, it was abandoned after the earthquake in 1956. Apparently, there are plans to renovate it and use it as a museum, but we didn’t see any signs of that when we were there.

Sunset volcano trip in Santorini

Another unique thing to do in Santorini is a sailing trip to the uninhabited volcanic islets, Palea and Nea Kameni. We took a day trip to the volcano and hot springs when we visited off-season, and it was absolutely fantastic.

The boat took us to the volcanic islands, and we spent an hour or two walking on the caldera and enjoying the amazing views from the top of the volcano. We also had a chance to have a swim at the thermal springs.

If you are visiting Santorini in summer, the last thing you will want to do is climb up a black-pebbled active volcano during the heat of the day. I’ve heard that temperatures can reach 50 degrees (122 F), and I’m not sure this is anyone’s cup of tea!

Instead, you can opt for a sunset volcano sailing trip . Many of these tours include a swim, meal and drinks, and a sailing boat is a unique spot to watch the sunset from. Bring your swimsuit and enjoy your sunset sail on your last evening in Santorini!

And what about the famous hike from Fira to Oia?

You didn’t mention the Fira to Oia hike , I hear you say, and you are right. While we absolutely loved the hike from Fira to Oia in November, with a temperature of 22-24 degrees (71-75 F), we decided against doing it again in summer.

However, if you are a morning person, you can comfortably do it. Aim to start your hike just after sunrise, or at 7 am at the latest, to avoid the excessive heat.

The hike is truly a memorable experience, and we will definitely do it again when we return to Santorini in the off-season.

Food in Santorini

Where to eat in Santorini? This is the million-dollar question!

When Santorini wasn’t all that famous abroad, there were actually rather few options on the island. My parents’ recollection of food in Santorini back in the 80s is that it was “very bland”. Who would have thought?!

Nowadays, there is an incredible number of restaurant and taverna options that would suit most budgets.

Many restaurants, especially those with a view to the caldera, would need an advance booking. However, if you don’t like planning your whole day, it’s always possible to eat something quick at a random taverna.

All in all, do not leave Santorini without trying their fava, which is different to the fava you will find in most other areas in Greece. Its flavour is richer, and it’s attributed to the unique soil of the island.

You should also try the famous Santorini cherry tomatoes, fresh fish and seafood. Finally, by all means try the wine, even if you are not going on a winery tour.

This article will help you when it comes to ordering Greek food , especially if it’s your first time in Greece. And here’s my ultimate Greek food guide, including 50 Greek dishes !

Best places to eat in Santorini

We could not provide a definitive list of the best restaurants in Santorini, simply because it would take ages to try them all and we don’t live there!

Our favourite restaurant in Santorini was Kapari in Fira, a few years ago. I still remember that meal!

The small family taverna on the Mesa Pigadia beach was also pretty good, though at the time we visited they only had a limited menu. We also enjoyed our meal at Marmita in Megalochori.

As for the best value for money? Our vote goes to Lucky’s Souvlaki in Fira – even though I don’t really like souvlaki myself, I have to admit these were very good!

Here are some more places that I often see mentioned in other travel guides, in both Greek and English. If you go, please leave a comment and let me know what you thought, as it may help other people!

Metaxi mas, Episkopi Gonias (this would be my number one choice to try)
Ambrosia, Oia
Katina’s and Dimitri’s, Amoudi bay in Oia
Mezzo restaurant, Imerovigli
Aktaion, Firostefani
Selene, Argo and Parea, Fira
To Psaraki, Vlychada
Giorgaros and Captain Dimitris, Akrotiri
Seaside and To Pinakio, Kamari
Poseidon and Frantzeskos, Perissa
Terra Nera and Savvas Popeye, Perivolos

Arguably, 4 days in Santorini won’t be enough to try them all, so you may have to return…

FAQs about Santorini

Here are some questions that visitors often ask:

Is 4 days in Santorini too much?

I think that 4 days in Santorini is about right. You can explore all the villages, see the highlights, relax on the beach, and maybe take a couple of tours.

How many days do you need in Santorini?

I’d say that 3 or 4 days are fine to get a good idea of the island and see most of the villages and attractions. You could still see many of the highlights in a day or two. Or you could extend your stay longer, if you wanted some time to relax.

Is 4 days enough in Greece?

If you only had 4 days in Greece, it would be best to stick to one or max two destinations. Popular destinations for first-time visitors include Athens, Santorini, Delphi, Meteora, Nafplio, Mycenae and Epidaurus.

Can you do Santorini in 3 days?

You can see many of Santorini’s highlights in 3 days. This includes the towns of Fira, Oia and Pyrgos, Ancient Akrotiri, the best beaches in Santorini and perhaps a winery or sailing tour.

Can you swim in the sea in Santorini?

Of course! While Santorini’s beaches are far from the best in Greece, they are really dramatic and picturesque. You will definitely enjoy swimming and snorkeling, especially if you go on a boat tour.

Can I visit Santorini on a budget?

The short answer is, yes you can, though it will still be more expensive than most other Greek islands. Have a look at this guide with things to do in Santorini on a budget , plus a bunch of tips on how to find the best prices.

Your favourite things to do in Santorini

If you haven’t been to our famous island, I hope that this itinerary will help you plan your Santorini vacation. On the other hand, if you have already been there, what was your favourite thing to do? Let us know in the comments!

More tips about Greece and the Greek islands

Planning a trip to Greece? You might find these other travel blog posts useful:

A popular 7-day itinerary in Greece: Athens – Santorini – Mykonos
Five incredible islands near Santorini
Is Santorini safe and things to avoid
Tips for visiting Greece in summer
Island hopping in Greece on a budget
Hottest Greek islands in October
How to get to Amorgos
Films about Greece – includes three movies filmed in Santorini!

2 thoughts on “What To Do In 4 Days In Santorini Greece”

I highly recommend Aegen Gem Hotel in Kamari. Ammoudi Bay is a must for lunch!

Both Metaxa Mas and Ambrosia were spectacular restaurants! Can’t recommend them enough. This was a great article. Hoping to be back in Santorini next year!

The Perfect 3 Day Santorini Itinerary

Written by our local expert Guru

Written by a local specialist we know and trust to bring you the most up-to-date travel information.

If you are planning a trip to Santorini for a short break, this is a perfect 3 day Santorini itinerary travel guide that will help you plan the perfect trip.

It includes the best things to do in Santorini, the two must-visit destinations of Oia and Fira, and a one-day road trip itinerary so you can visit the highlights of Santorini island. This itinerary also includes our tried and tested travel tips for Santorini.

Greece Travel Blog_Perfect 3 Day Itinierary In Santorini

Santorini is one of the most popular – and most scenic – Greek islands to visit. Known for its dramatic coastal landscapes, sheer caldera, and amazing Aegean Sea views, Santorini also offers charming, laid-back traditional Cycladic towns and villages to explore.

In addition, you can visit 3,000-year-old historical sites , go wine tasting in a cave, shop for art in a local gallery, and dine on some of the best Greek food you will ever taste.

Let’s get into how to spend 3 days in Santorini!

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Day 1 In Santorini – Oia With Caldera Views

Oia is an unmissable destination on a Santorini itinerary . The charming village is packed with character and provides the incredible views the island of Santorini is famous for. It sits on the northeast of the island, overlooking the caldera and Armenis Bay.

Brunch At Karma

Start your day on the island with a tasty Cycladic brunch at Karma . This cute restaurant sits on a quiet side street and serves a wide choice of healthy dishes in its gorgeous courtyard garden.

Take A Stroll In Oia

Explore the charming village of Oia in Santorini, Greece with our 3 Day Santorini Itinerary.

The best way to explore Oia is on foot. It is made for wandering and offers a photo opportunity around every corner.

Visit the Church of Panagia Akathistos (also known as the Church of Panagia Platsani) on Oia’s main square. This distinctive church has five domes (including a classic blue dome) and a pyramid-shaped bell tower with six bells. It is one of the most famous churches on the island.

Take a stroll along the marble-lined promenade to see one of the most photographed locations on the island, the two blue-domed churches of the Church of Anastasi and the Church of St. Spirydon. This is, justifiably, one of the most popular locations on the island, so visit as early as you can to avoid the crowds.

Don’t miss one of the most iconic features of Santorini, the sail-clad windmills in Oia. The windmills are no longer working, and you cannot see inside, but they make an atmospheric photo backdrop.

Oia is a good place for shopping and to pick up locally-made souvenirs. For an extra special souvenir, why not take part in the famous flying dress photo shoot? The contrasting colors and backdrop of the caldera will create photos to treasure forever.

Visit The Maritime Museum

Take a break from the sun with a visit to the small but fascinating Maritime Museum. Exhibits include sailing equipment, navigation instruments, sailor uniforms, and wooden figureheads. It is an exciting glimpse into the importance of maritime trade in Santorini’s history.

The museum is open every day except Tuesday.

Castle Of Oia

The ruins of the 15th-century Venetian Castle of Oia are one of the most popular locations on Santorini to watch a sunset over the Aegean. Also called the Castle of Agios Nikolaos, this spot boasts spectacular views of the caldera.

If you want a quieter spot to watch the famous Santorini sunset , take a stroll up the hill just outside town. The views are just as good, and you will avoid the crowds.

Ammoudi Bay

Spend the afternoon in picturesque Ammoudi Bay, which can be accessed by descending 278 steps from Oia. The multi-colored buildings set against an azure sea and red beach rocks create a striking landscape.

After the exerting descent, indulge in ice cream at Cool Cave before spending a couple of hours swimming and sunbathing on the small but beautiful sandy beach .

Grab dinner at one of the seafood restaurants in the bay and, if you have time, watch the sunset to end your first day before climbing the steps back to Oia.

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Day 2 in santorini – fira.

Spend the second day of your 3 day Santorini itinerary in the island’s capital city – Fira.

Oia To Fira Hike

3 Day Santorini Itinerary: Greece, Santorini

Walk off breakfast with a 10-kilometer hike from Oia to Fira , the capital of Santorini. Set off early in summer to avoid soaring midday temperatures, and bring plenty of water and sunscreen as there isn’t any shade along the route.

The hilly coastal trail is scenic and well-signposted. It varies between paved roads and dirt tracks, and the entire route will take around 2-3 hours, depending on how many stops you make. You will pass Imerovigli and Firostefani along the way.

As the path is rocky in places, suitable gripping footwear is a must.

Wander Around Fira

3-Day Santorini Itinerary: Explore the breathtaking beauty of a church on a hill overlooking the sea.

Like Oia, Fira is small, so it’s ideal to explore on foot. It sits on top of a cliff which, at its highest point, is 300 meters above sea level. The caldera views from Fira are amazing.

Visit the 19th-century Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral and the colorful 18th-century Catholic Church of Saint Stylianso. Walk along the promenade or cool down with a drink in one of the many restaurants that offer a caldera view.

Visit The Museum Of Prehistoric Thera

Escape the midday heat and learn about the history of Santorini at the Museum of Prehistoric Thera. It has an extensive and varied collection of prehistoric artifacts ranging from fossils to jewelry and clay pots to fine art frescoes.

Allow around 1 – 2 hours for your visit. The museum is cheap to enter and is open everyday (except Tuesday) until 3 pm.

Santos Winery

3 Day Santorini Itinerary: Explore the stunning island of Santorini, Greece. Visit iconic blue-domed churches, swim in crystal clear waters and immerse yourself in the rich history and Santos Winery

Santorini has lots of great wineries to choose from (and wine tours), but we recommend visiting Santos Winery, 4 kilometers south of Fira.

You can skip a wine tasting tour and instead head here to get a very affordable wine tasting package, which includes an informative tour of the four-floor winery, several different wine varieties to taste, plus an array of traditional snacks such as home-baked bread, Santorini-grown tomatoes, and various tasty dips.

If time allows, stay for dinner and enjoy Santo’s excellent food, accompanied by an incredible sunset view, before catching a bus or taxi back from Fira to Oia.

Day 3 In Santorini – Rent A Car For A Road Trip

If you have your own car, add a day-long road trip to your Santorini itinerary. You will get to see and visit quieter parts of the island that most tourists to Santorini never reach.

A cobbled street in a white building with blue shutters, part of a 3 Day Santorini Itinerary.

Pyrgos (or Pyrgos Kallistis) is 3 kilometers from Fira. It is a quaint, unspoiled village and a great place to stop for a break.

The 13th-century village is the highest village on the island. It is a maze of narrow lanes and whitewashed Cycladic houses adorned with vivid pink bougainvillea.

Grab a coffee or lunch at Franco’s Cafe , which has elevated views of the village from its terrace, before heading uphill to explore Pyrgos Kasteli, the best preserved of the five Venetian castles on Santorini.

Recovered ancient buildings in prehistoric town of Akrotiri, one of the most important prehistoric settlements of the Aegean. An archaeological site of Akrotiri in Santorini, Greece

Akrotiri, to the southwest of Santorini, is 15 kilometers from Fira. Most people visit the village to see the nearby remains of the prehistoric Minoan city of Akrotiri , which is one of the most important Bronze Age sites in Europe.

The ancient city was hidden from sight under a thick layer of ash after a volcanic eruption in the 16th century B.C. When the site was excavated in the 1960s, archaeologists discovered that the ash had remarkably preserved the ruins underneath.

Today, you can see three-story buildings, drainage systems, and road layouts, but the site is best known for its colorful and detailed Minoan frescoes.

Once you have paid to enter Akrotiri, it is worth paying the extra charge for a guided tour of this famous Santorini spot. You will learn and understand so much more about the site and its people than if you walk around on your own.

Relax At Kamari Beach

Best beaches in Santorini - Kamari beach at dawn

Kamari is a black-sand and pebble beach sitting at the foot of Mesa Vuono mountain in southeast Santorini.

It’s a large, family-friendly beach lined with beach clubs and tavernas. There are umbrellas and beds for hire, and the sea is clear and generally calm, so this is a great place to relax for a couple of hours.

You can also take a water taxi or walk to neighboring Perissa Beach.

Santorini Wine Museum

Whether you drink wine or not, the Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum is worth visiting to find out how Santorini’s most famous export is produced.

The museum is housed in a 300-meter-long cave, 8 meters underground, so that it will be a welcome break from the heat. Using an audio guide, you will tour the exhibits and dioramas to learn how grapes were grown, harvested, and processed to make Santorini wine in the past as well as in the present day.

The tour ends with tastings of four different types of wine. You can also pre-book more extensive wine-tasting packages if you wish.

3 Days In Santorini Itinerary

Getting Around Santorini

Renting a car in Santorini is the easiest and fastest way to explore the island. Santorini is small, so you will be able to visit a lot of locations in a short time if you have your own vehicle.

Driving in Santorini is straightforward, but book your rental car well in advance of your trip, as there is a limited number of rental cars available on the island.

Santorini also has an efficient, affordable, and reliable bus network run by KETL. Routes include all the main tourist destinations plus the port and airport.

Buses run every day, starting around 6 -7 am and running until around 10 pm. You will also find several night buses on the most popular routes. Buses are a cheap option for budget or solo travelers , and you can use them to explore all over the island.

Taxis in Santorini are expensive, so they should only be used if you cannot catch a bus. Unfortunately, at present, Uber is only available as UberTaxi, which is basically the same as standard taxis.

Areas To Stay In Santorini

Most people stay in Oia and Fira, as these two locations offer some of the most spectacular views on the island. Both are small enough to explore comfortably on foot. If you are a budget-conscious traveler, you will find cheaper accommodation in Fira with the best bargains available in the off-peak winter or autumn season.

We stayed at Virginia’s Cave Villas in Oia. It offers stylish, authentic cave rooms with jaw-dropping views. In Fira, we stayed at Lemon Suites. It has a convenient central location and is packed with character.

How To Get To Santorini

During the summer months (usually from May – October), you can get direct flights to Santorini from most European countries. In off-peak months, you will have to change planes or modes of transport in Athens.

There are direct ferries to Santorini all year round from Athens and neighboring Naxos and Paros . The ferry from Athens to Santorini takes between 5 – 6 hours.

Days In Santorini Tips FAQs

Is 3 days enough time to visit santorini.

Yes. I recommend at least 3 days in Santorini. Three days is sufficient time to explore both the main tourist areas and more off-the-beaten-track locations. To fully explore within this timeframe, we recommend hiring a car to get the most out of your trip to Santorini.

How much money do you need for 3 days in Santorini?

This depends on what level of accommodation you choose, how many meals you eat out per day, and how many attractions you wish to visit.

Europe is not a cheap destination, and Santorini is not a cheap location within Europe! On average, you should budget around €175 per person per day. Therefore, a 3 day trip would cost €525 per person.

You can save money by visiting in the off-season, by choosing cheaper accommodation, or by hiring your own car or using buses. One of the biggest savings you can make is to pick up your own groceries for breakfast or lunch.

Is everything walkable in Santorini?

When you are in towns or villages in Santorini, everything is walkable; for example, Oia is only 2 kilometers long. However, if you have mobility issues, you may find numerous steps and uphill and downhill slopes in Oia and Fira challenging.

You can also walk between some locations (such as Fira and Oia), but the island as a whole is not walkable unless you are spending much longer than three days on it.

What is the best month to go to Santorini?

The ‘best’ month depends on what you want to get out of your trip. If you want endless sunshine, high temperatures, and local festivals, visit in the peak season months of July and August.

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Three Days In Santorini Wrap-Up

Santorini is an idyllic Cycladic island that offers incredible views, fantastic food, and pretty beaches. You can also visit ancient sites, learn about Santorini’s prehistoric history, attend a vibrant festival, or enjoy a scenic, deserted hiking trail.

Many people visit Santorini for just one day, but to fully appreciate everything that this island gem has to offer, we recommend staying for at least 3 days.

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Hike From Fira To Oia
One Day In Santorini – Cruise Port Itinerary
Guide To Akrotiri
Guide To Santorini In The Winter
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The Closest Islands To Santorini
Visiting Santorini With Kids

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ZigZagonEarth

Plan unforgettable road trips!

Santorini Travel Guide

Santorini is one of the most inspiring island in the world with its white architecture on top of high cliffs Below is my Santorini Travel guide to help you plan your ideal itinerary including the best places in Santorini (especially …),how to get around, where to stay and plenty of photos and video to make you dream of your next trip!

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR TIME Santorini!

This article contains affiliate links ( Disclosure page ). If you purchase using my link, I get a commission at no extra cost to you.

Travel Guide written by Claire , the ultimate Travel Planning Geek

“With the Zigzag Travel Guides, Planning is half the fun of Traveling”

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Best things to do in Santorini

Let’s starts with some overall articles to share with you the best places in Santorini: the best beaches, the best villages, the best viewpoints, the best activities…The island is small but there is lots to do. As a summary, some of my favorite locations in Santorini are:

The village of Oia – there is a reason for its notoriety, the views and the architecture are spectacular (my tip: visit at sunrise!)
The beach of Vlichada – its tortuous cliffs sculpted by the elements are so much fun to photograph!
The village of Emporio – the maze of narrow streets with incredible architecture is worth getting lost in 🙂
The Catamaran cruise along the South coast – what a day!

Best views in Santorini – Landscapes & photo locations

Best beaches in Santorini

Best Santorini boat tours

Santorini Travel Guide – Introduction Map

Below is a simple map of Santorini that you will see in several of my articles. It helps you located the most famous areas and get oriented to plan your Santorini travels.

Santorini Travel Guide – Introduction Map

To help you plan your trip to Santorini, I have compiled all my favorite locations with practical information and maps:

Plan your dream trip in Santorini thanks to my guide

6 maps to easily plan your itinerary
40+ pre-selected locations
GPS + tips to make the most of your time
Planning tips
90+ original photos to help you choose

Planning a trip to Santorini Island

Inspired by all these amazing places to see in Santorini? Well, now it is time to plan your trip, to decide: when to go, how to get around, how long to stay etc…

How long to visit Santorini?

I think 3 days is a minimum to have a look at the various areas Santorini has to offer and to have the time to do a Catamaran Cruise (I really loved it!)

How to get to Santorini?

There are 3 main options to reach Santorini:

By Ferry – from another island or from Athens – this is a fantastic way to arrive in Santorini with views of the giant cliffs! Book your ferries
By plane – There is an airport on the island with frequent flights from Athens and Europe
By cruise – I really don’t recommend it – 1 day in Santorini including the time to get off and on the ship is really to short – it will really be a tiny snapshot

how to travel to Santorini - ferry and cruise

When and how to travel to Santorini

Below are my articles to help you chose when to plan your trip to Santorini and how to get around (including the driving conditions).As a summary:

Summer has the hottest weather and warm water if you want to enjoy the beach but it get crowded
Shoulder seasons offer good weather with less tourists
Winter is getting more popular – weather can be cloudy and the wind can be cold, but you can enjoy the best views without crowds pushing you!
Public bus run throughout the island from Fira
Renting a car allows you to explore more of the island. Road are overall in good conditions, and all road signs are using latin alphabet

Best time to visit Santorini

How to rent a car in Santorini

Driving in Santorini – 25 tips

1, 2, 3 days in Santorini itinerary suggestions

Need to rent a car in Santorini?

Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
Don’t take a car too large, since village streets can be narrow
Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind!
Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See all my tips

Where to stay in Santorini

Deciding where to stay in Santorini is a difficult decision – between price, views, access, beach and all, there are many criteria to take into consideration. Below are my articles to guide you in your decision, depending on what the most important is for you – including the best areas to stay in Santorini, the best hotels, cave accommodations, quiet options…

Perissa or Kamari Beach – where to go?

Oia or Fira – best place to stay?

Where to stay in Santorini?

My favorites:

For the charm: Oia – See best-rated accommodations
To explore by bus: Fira – See best-rated accommodations
To enjoy the beach & nightlife: Kamari – See best-rated accommodations
For cheaper options: Emporio – See best-rated accommodations
Away from the crowds: Vlychada – See accommodations

Planning your visits in Santorini

And below I share with you more detailed articles about some of my favorite places on the island – with plenty of pictures of Santorini to help you decide if you want to visit and the plan everything.They include some of the most beautiful beaches and the most fascinating villages.

Vlichada Beach Santorini

Red Beach Santorini

Village of Emporio, Santorini

Things to do in Oia, Santorini

General Travel Tips

Practical websites to book your trip.

BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION & TOURS

I personally use Booking.com for their large choice of both hotels and apartments, their real reviews and reductions for repeat customers – Book your accommodations via Booking.com (or if you prefer – Book with Hotels.com )
DAY TRIPS – The other travel option I like to just seat and relax while admiring the scenery it to Book day trips and organized tours. I also like to have my tickets beforehand to save time. I personally use GetYourGuide.com and Viator.com

GET EQUIPMENT YOU NEED

CLOTHES, SAFETY ITEMS, PACKING PRACTICAL ITEMS, LUGGAGE, ELECTRONICS… Get it on Amazon (US, UK and Canada only)

GET TRAVEL INSURANCE

I wish you a very smooth trip, but my policy is: better be prepared. I personally use World Nomads. Get a quote online here .

Travel Checklists

Travel Safety Tips

Best Travel Binoculars

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Visit Santorini: Top 17 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in santorini: the 17 best places to visit (all highlights).

You’re planning to visit Santorini during your next trip to Greece ? You’re looking for the best things to do in Santorini?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this guide of the 17 best places to visit in Santorini , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to this list of things to do and activities, I will also give you itineraries to visit Santorini in 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 days as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

And as always, this travel guide contains all my best tips to make the most of your stay.

So, what to do in Santorini? Where to stay?

Let’s start with the best places to visit on the island!

3. Santorini volcano boat trip

4. catamaran tour in santorini, 5. hiking from fira to oia, 6. santorini’s best beaches, 7. the best watersports in santorini, 8. amoudi bay, 9. do a wine tour in santorini, 10. akrotiri, 11. the other best villages to visit in santorini, 12. quad bike tour in santorini, 13. helicopter flight in santorini, 14. ancient thera, 15. thirassia, 16. santorini’s open air cinema, 17. what to do in santorini at night, 18. where to go shopping in santorini, 19. discover greek gastronomy, the other best greek islands to visit around santorini, how many days to visit santorini, 1 day in santorini, 2 days in santorini, 3 days in santorini, 4 or 5 days in santorini, best hotels in oia, best hotels in fira, other best places to stay in santorini island, where to eat in santorini, how to get to santorini , renting a car in santorini, santorini and greece tours, renting a boat in santorini, tourist map of santorini, cyclades (greek islands), visit santorini: the 17 must-see attractions.

Fira , Santorini’s capital, is one of the best places to see on the island.

During your trip to Santorini, you certainly want to

Discover the famous white and blue houses
Wander in picturesque narrow alleys
Enjoy chic boutiques and luxury hotels with infinity pools
Admire magnificent views of the caldera.

Well, you’re lucky: Fira has all of this!

It’s the perfect Cycladic town, a real postcard scenery.

Wander in the city’s alleys and discover the breathtaking viewpoints of the sea and the caldera. You will for sure fall in love with the island (even if it’s often crowded!).

From Fira, follow the beautiful walking trail to reach the villages of Firostefani (only a 10-minute walk) and Imerovigli (the highest point of the caldera, 30 minutes away from Fira). Plan at least between 1 and 2 hours , as you will stop every 2 meters to enjoy the view and take pictures!

You can also walk to the small port of Fira Skala. It’s quite easy to get down the 587 steps, but getting back up can be more difficult, especially under the sun!

If you’re too tired to walk, take Santorini’s cable car. During this nice ride, you will admire the island from a different angle. A one way ticket costs 6€.

You can also get a ride on a donkey, but I wouldn’t recommend it, as the animals are often abused.

If you’re a History lover, or if you want to know more about Santorini, you can visit 2 museums in Fira:

The Museum of Prehistoric Thera , exposing vestiges discovered in Akrotiri (I will tell you more about it later) and other archaeological excavations on Santorini.
The archaeological museum and its collection of remains from all Santorini, including vases from Akrotiri.

Fira is also a great place to enjoy the nightlife in Santorini: you will find the island’s best bars, restaurants and night clubs!

Try to visit Fira early in the morning, to avoid most of the crowd. The temperatures will be cooler and your stroll will be more pleasant.

Together with Fira, Oia is the other must-see tourist attraction in Santorini.

As in Fira, you will be amazed by Oia’s pretty white houses, churches with a blue dome, and splendid views over the entire caldera!

Oia is also known as the best place to enjoy the sunset in Santorini . At the end of the day, thousands of people are coming to the city for Santorini’s most famous show.

When you’ve found the perfect spot to admire the sunset, sit down and don’t leave it!

And if you’re looking for a quieter and more romantic atmosphere, you should book a table in one of the many bars and restaurants . Watching the sunset while enjoying a drink is for sure an amazing experience.

Just keep in mind that you’ll be asked for a minimum order amount per person. Don’t worry: as the drinks are quite expensive, this amount will be easy to reach.

The best place to watch the sunset in Oia is the Byzantine Castle. Be there at least 1 or 2 hours before, so you can get a good spot.

Boat trips are among the best things to do in Santorini.

The most famous tour is a 1-day cruise in the volcanic islands and Palea Kamini hot springs.

During this day, you will explore the island of Nea Kameni and its still active volcano. You can even walk to the summit of the crater!

You will also stop at Palea Kameni hot springs to take a dip.

Then, you will end your day on Thirassia island, located right in front of Santorini.

As these tours are very popular, you should really book yours in advance. It’s very easy, you just have to click on the button below to view the cruise details and book it. For only 37€ per person, you will get the bus transfer from and to your hotel, an audio guide, the cruise and the 3 stops at the volcano, the hot springs and Thirassia!

You can also choose a luxury version of this cruise, on a catamaran.

You will sail around Santorini, and enjoy 3 stops for swimming, including one at the hot springs. Snorkeling equipment is even included!

The price includes the minibus transfer from your hotel, the guided tour, the Greek Barbecue and unlimited soft drinks.

At the end of the day, you will also admire the beautiful sunset from the sea.

You’re going to Santorini?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Santorini on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Santorini.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Santorini, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Santorini!

If you want to enjoy magnificent viewpoints of the island and the caldera, you should hike from Fira to Oia.

A 9-km long marked trail on the edge of the caldera connects the 2 cities. You will stop many times to take beautiful pictures, as the view is just breathtaking! It’s clearly one of Santorini’s best points of interest.

This marked trail isn’t really difficult, even if the weather can get really hot on sunny days. So, it’s better to hike in the morning or at the end of the day. You can for example plan your walk to arrive in Oia for the sunset.

From Fira, you will reach Oia in about 2 hours . You should however plan a bit more time, as you will for sure stop a few times on the way to enjoy the panorama and take pictures.

For the hike, it’s easier to park your car in Imerovigli than in Fira: there will be more parking spaces. As you will only walk from Imerovigli to Oia, you will do the Fira-Imerovigli part of the trail when visiting Fira.

You should hike from Fira to Oia, and not from Oia to Fira. The most beautiful part is the view over Oia at the end of the trail.

It’s impossible to do a definitive guide about Santorini without mentioning the best beaches of the island.

If you want to take a dip in Santorini, the most famous beaches are:

The beaches of Perissa, Perivolos and Agios Georgios: large black sand beaches with snacks and taverns
Kamari Beach, another large black sand beach, where you can rent deckchairs and enjoy many nautical activities.
The Red Beach, named after the volcanic ochre cliffs surrounding it. You can get there in only 5 minutes by a trail.
The White Beach, right next to the Red Beach. You will need take a boat to get there.
Vlihada Beach and its white rocks.
Monilithos Beach, ideal with children with its shallow waters.
Kolumbo Beach, only accessible by foot, and frequented by nudists.

At the main beaches, you can also enjoy a few amazing water sports!

I won’t hide it, my favorite water sport in Santorini is for sure the 1h30 jet ski tour with an instructor.

You will also have the choice between several different routes starting from Périvolos. You will be able to discover the beaches and the volcano of Santorini!

It’s really an unforgettable experience that needs to be booked in advance by clicking on the button below:

During your trip to Santorini , you can also try other great activities. Simply click on the links to book them in advance (they are extremely popular):

Jet ski rental from the Perissa beach
A first dive with an experienced instructor or a dive on one of the most beautiful spots in Santorini if you’re an experienced diver.
A parasailing session , to enjoy a panoramic view of the island!
A kayak tour (small group), to discover the most beautiful landscapes of Santorini from the sea and without the crowds
A windsurfing course
A Stand Up Paddle excursion (always in small groups)
A Flyboard session or of Hoverboard , the 2 trendy activities on the island!
Take a kiteboarding course for beginners or rent a kiteboard if you are more experienced.

Amoudi Bay is a small fishing village located below Oia.

You can get there walking down the 300 steps stairway starting from Oia. You can also drive there, but if you do, don’t go to the end of the road, as it’s difficult to turn back. Just park your car along the road and finish on foot.

From Amoudi, the view of the ochre cliffs and Oia is really beautiful.

There are also a few nice taverns and restaurants on the seaside. It’s perfect if you like fresh fishes!

And, if you want to take a dip in the sea, follow the trail after the restaurants. You will find a nice place to swim and dive into the water.

Wine Tours are among the most popular activities in Santorini. The island is renowned for its excellent white wines, known as some of the best in Greece.

You can visit many vineyards (known for being the oldest in the world!) on the island, and taste the best wines.

Here is the program of the best wine tour in Santorini:

This wine tasting tour in Santorini lasts around 5 hours and allows you to visit several wineries . During your day, you will visit 3 vineyards:

Boutari vineyard
Gavalas traditional winery
The Estate Argyros.

You will also taste a dozen of Santorini’s best wines, including the traditional Vinsanto and Nykteri!

This tour includes the transfer from your hotel, an Oenologist guide, and an access to the vineyards. You will be in a small group of 8 people maximum, making this semi-private visit really enjoyable.

For more information and to book your tour, simply click the button below (it must be booked in advanced).

If you’re interested in Santorini’s History, the ancient site of Akrotiri is one of the island’s best place to visit.

This archaeological site is often compared to Pompeii, in Italy . Akrotiri is an ancient Minoan city destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 1,613 B.C. It was only rediscovered in 1967 during an archaeological excavation. The site is one of the most important in the Aegean Sea.

The archaeological excavations are still on going in this very large site. Many remains are probably still undiscovered!

In Akrotiri, wooden footbridges allow you to walk in the city. There, you will admire the ancient buildings, the streets and many ceramics.

Unlike Pompeii, the city of Akrotiri was uninhabited when the eruption occurred, as no human remains or valuable objects were found on the site. What happened to these people? No one knows yet if they moved elsewhere on the island, or sailed to Crete .

During your trip to Santorini, you will certainly go to Fira and Oia. But don’t miss the island’s other villages!

Pyrgos is Santorini’s highest village. It’s a typical Cycladic village, with a traditional architecture and splendid views of the island.
Megalochori, with its picturesque narrow alleys.
Messaria, in the middle of the island and the vineyards.
Emporio, where you will find the Goulas medieval castle at the village’s entrance. There are also many small churches.

To visit some of the villages of Santorini and get off the beaten track, you should opt for a quad bike tour with a guide .

The itinerary is really nice since it allows you to go through places where you would not necessarily have ventured by yourself or by car.

You will discover, among others, Emporio and its Venetian castle , the village of Megalochori , and stop at many viewpoints overlooking the caldera. You will also enjoy a tasting session in the oldest wine cellar of Santorini.

The tour lasts 3h30 and is a small group tour with a maximum of 6 people, which makes this quad bike tour in Santorini even more enjoyable!

To book your quad bike tour in Santorini , simply click on the button below:

If you feel like taking advantage of your trip to Santorini to try other activities , you’ll find my selection of the best excursions and activities right here: The 17 best excursions in Santorini.

Wanna see Santorini from the most amazing viewpoint?

Let’s take some height and go on a helicopter tour in Santorini!

It is the best way to admire the splendid landscapes of the island, the caldera, the volcano and the traditional white houses of Oia and Fira.

And for an even more incredible experience, you can also opt for the sunset tour . From the sky will certainly be the only place on the island where you can admire the sunset without the crowds!

It’s really the perfect romantic activity, and a great idea for a surprise gift.

You need to book your helicopter tour of Santorini by clicking on the button below:

The Ancient Thera is another archaeological site in Santorini.

“Thera” is the ancient name of Santorini. In the Middle Ages, the island was then named “Santa Irini” by the Venetians which finally became “Santorini”.

Located on Mesa Vouno Hill, Thera was founded in the 9th century B.C. During your visit, you will admire many vestiges from the Hellenic, Roman and Byzantine periods. Take a stroll and discover the remains of the temples, the agora, the theatre and the gymnasium.

You will also enjoy a nice view of the surroundings.

The island of Thirassia is located just in front of Oia.

This crocodile-shaped island was separated from Santorini by a huge volcanic eruption.

If you want to visit Thirassia, you can choose a 1-day boat trip (the one going to Nea Kameni’s volcano and hot springs also stops there) or take the boat directly from Amoudi Bay.

The island is way quieter than Santorini. During your visit, you will enjoy the charming village of Manolas and its good taverns, and enjoy a splendid view of Santorini!

No matter if you’re on a family trip or a romantic gateway in Santorini, you should definitely go watch a movie at the open air Cinema.

The Kamari Open Air Cinema , or Cinekamari, is an outdoor movie theatre located in the middle of the forest. It’s a really original and nice place to watch a movie.

From May to October, you can see movies in English (subtitled in Greek) every night starting from 21h30. It costs 8€ per person.

There’s also a bar on the site.

Don’t hesitate to check the official website for more information.

If the cinema is a bit too classical for your taste for an evening in Santorini, you should rather head to the most famous show of the island: The Greek Wedding Show .

This open-air show skillfully mixes theater, comedy, music and typical Greek dances on the theme of a traditional wedding.

You will even be invited to the wedding banquet where you will be served an assortment of Greek mezze accompanied by fine Santorini wines. And you will not deviate from an old tradition of any good Greek wedding: breaking the plates!

The show is really of excellent quality, very entertaining and immersive . You will really feel like you have been invited to a wedding.

The Greek Wedding show takes place every night at 9:30 pm in Fira and lasts 2 hours.

You must book your seats in advance by clicking on the button below:

If you feel like doing a a bit of shopping in Santorini, it’s very simple: you will have to go to Oia or Fira .

The 2 most famous villages of Santorini concentrate all types of stores: clothing, luxury, jewelry and souvenirs . You can also find traditional Greek handicrafts and art galleries .

However, do not expect to find good deals because the prices are quite high compared to the rest of Greece.

What are the local specialties you should try?

Among the typical dishes of Santorini, you can try:

Bean puree made from a specific bean of the island, the fava
Tomato fritters made from a local tomato variety
Saganaki, cheese wrapped in filo pastry and fried
Minced meatballs
Moussaka , which is of course one of the most famous dish in Greece
Gyros, the best option for a cheap meal in Santorini!
Fish , which you can try in one of the taverns in Ammoudi or on the east coast of Santorini

If you’ve seen most of Santorini, you can take the ferry and visit the islands located nearby:

Ios, the closest island to Santorini. There, you can relax all day at the beach and party all night long.
Amorgos , the best place to hike, there are many marked trails.
The Small Cyclades , if you want to enjoy quieter and less touristic islands (at least for the moment!).
Naxos for its beautiful beaches
Mykonos, where you can dance all day and night long with the best DJs in the world!

If you want more details about the other islands around Santorini , you should read my detailed article: The 15 best Cyclades Islands .

You can also visit this website to check the ferries rates, schedules and book them.

Ideally, you should spend at least 3 days in Santorini. You can visit Fira and Oia on your 1st day, then explore the rest of the island, go on a tour, or relax at the beach during the next 2 days.

Here are my recommended Santorini itineraries depending on the duration of your stay:

You’re spending 1 day in Santorini? Then, you will have time to visit the island’s most famous villages!

Here are the best things to do in Santorini for 1 day:

Start your day in Fira. Visit the city, and go to Firostefani and Imerovigli, the 2 villages nearby.
Have a drink on a terrace, and stop in one of the 3 villages for lunch.
After a good meal, it’s time to hike from Imerovigli to Oia.
Then, visit the magnificent village of Oia.
If you still have some time (and if you’re not too tired!), walk down the stairs to Amoudi Bay.
Enjoy the sunset in Oia, the best place to admire it in Santorini.

If you don’t feel like walking too much, you can take a guided bus tour . You need to book it in advance here.

During the day, you will visit the archaeological site of Akrotiri , then stop at the Red Beach and discover the village of Emporio. You will also swim in Perissa, taste wines and admire the sunset in Oia.

This excursion is a great way to discover the best of Santorini in only 1 day!

For more details, you should read my dedicated article: One day in Santorini .

If you have 2 days in Santorini , in addition to the first day described above, you should do a boat-trip to Nea Kameni. You will walk to the top of the volcano and take a dip in the hot springs.

You can book this tour by clicking here . And if you prefer a more luxury version in a catamaran, it’s right here!

This cruise is clearly a must-see attraction in Santorini!

To learn more about the best things to do in Santorini in 2 days, you should read my article: 2-day Santorini itinerary .

If you’re spending 3 days in Santorini, in addition to the 2 days above, you can visit the island’s other villages and the ancient site of Akrotiri.

Then, how about ending your day at one of the many beaches?

If you want more info and tips to visit Santorini in 3 days, you should read my dedicated article: 3 days in Santorini: the perfect itinerary

You’ve planned 4 or 5 days in Santorini? You’re lucky! In addition to all the best places to see on the island, you will have time to take another tour, like Santorini wine tasting tour . You will taste 12 of the island’s best wines.

There are also other interesting activities to do in Santorini:

If you’re interested in Greek gastronomy , then you have to try this 1-day tour . It combines a Greek cooking class with the tasting of local wines . Needless to say it’s amazing 😍.

And if you’re a photography lover , book a tour of the island’s most beautiful places with a professional photographer. It’s clearly magical! You must book it in advance right here.

Where to stay in Santorini

You must know that staying in Santorini, especially in the villages of the caldera like Oia and Fira , is quite expensive.

If you want a less expensive accommodation , it’s better to choose a hotel outside these 2 cities .

And of course, even more in Santorini than in any other place, book your hotels as early as possible!

To help you choose, I have made a selection of the best hotels in Santorini , depending on where you want to stay and your budget.

Aethrio Hotel: Located in Oia, only a few steps away from the main square. You can rent double rooms, studio flats or apartments with balcony for most of them. The price starts from 160€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the swimming pool, the large rooms, the rooftop to admire the sunset. It’s one of the cheapest places in Oia, and it offers a great value for money!
Caldera Premium Villas: Located in the centre of Oia. You will love the troglodyte suites with a breathtaking view of the sea and the caldera, starting from 290€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the design of the rooms, and the location.
Theodora Suites Apartment: Located in the heart of the city. Studio flats with small kitchen, fridge, private terrace and hot tub, starting from 350€, breakfast included. What I loved: the hot tubs, the breathtaking view, the kind staff.
Andronis Boutique Hotel: 5-star hotel located in Oia. You’ll enjoy large suites with a view of the caldera, private balcony and private hot tub or pool, starting from 800€ with breakfast included. Strong points: the idyllic scenery and the calm. It’s my recommendation for a one-week romantic stay in Greece!
Katikies Hotel – The Leading Hotels of the World: This luxurious hotel offers rooms and suites with a great view, bathtub and spa. The price starts from 1000€ with breakfast included. What I loved: the pools, the spas, the splendid views and the food! It’s my recommendation for a luxury stay in Santorini!

Katikies Hotel The Leading Hotels of the World

Galatia Villas: Located 10 minutes away from Fira’s city centre. The double rooms are quite basic but nice, and the price starts from only 80€ per night. Strong points: the hot tub on the roof, the kind staff, the great value for money for Santorini.
Lilium Santorini Villa: Located on the edge of the caldera. These elegant and modern double rooms with sea view are available starting from 315€, breakfast included. What I loved: the pool, the exceptionnal location, the warm and welcoming staff.
Cosmopolitan Suites – Small Luxury Hotels of the World: Located in the heart of Fira. You will enjoy lovely rooms with private balcony, decorated in the purest Cycladian style, starting from 550€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the infinity pool over the cliff, and the luxury hotel services. This is the perfect place to stay with your lover in Santorini!
Aria Suites: Located in Fira, this high standard hotel offers only 6 suites and luxury villas, fully equipped (you even get a laptop), starting from 700€ per night. What I loved: the magnificent place, the pool and the staff availability. This is a great choice for a luxurious and romantic stay in Fira!

Memories Beach Hotel: Located just accross Monolithos beach. These comfortable modern rooms starts from 65€ per night, with breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the calm and the adorable staff.
Rose Suites: Located in Vourvoulos, only 4 kilometers away from Fira. Those studio flats and apartments are well equiped and decorated, with a small kitchen and a private terrace. The prices are starting from 75€ per night. What I loved: the pool, the calm, the decoration. The fridge is also full with everything you need for breakfast. This is the best choice in Santorini for its exceptional value for money!
Hippocampus Hotel: Located in Kamari, only 50 meters away from the beach. The rooms, with a view on the swimming pool or the garden, are starting from 85€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the ideal location close to the beach, and the really kind staff.
Meltemi Village Hotel: Located in Perissa, only 5 minutes away from the Black beach. The rooms and suites with hot tubs are starting from 100€ per night, with the breakfast included. What I loved: the pools, the spa, and the great breakfast. A great choice for a stay on Santorini’s shore!

Wondering where to eat in Santorini? What are the best restaurants in Santorini?

If you want to enjoy authentic cuisine (and avoid the many touristy restaurants), I recommend you:

Pitogyros, a tavern located in Oia and serving mainly gyros. Very good, fresh and not greasy, it’s approved by Voyage Tips!
Karma: a restaurant located in Oia serving an excellent cuisine at an affordable price for Santorini. I recommend their tomato fritters, fava with caramelized onions and moussaka!
Romantica in Firostefani: a good traditional cuisine, a very pleasant welcome, hearty and tasty dishes, we do not ask for more.
The cave of Nikolas: restaurant located at the waterfront in the old port of Akrotiri. A must if you like fish!

If you want to eat in any restaurant in Santorini, you should better have a reservation!

Most restaurants located on the caldera are far from being better than the ones located a little further away. Don’t be mistaken: you are only charged for the view and not for the quality of the food.

If you want to visit Santorini, you have 2 possibilities to get there:

By plane: Santorini has an international airport. Many companies offers direct flights, or connecting flights via Athens . The airport is located only 10 minutes away from Fira and 25 minutes from Oia.
By ferry boat: you can take the ferry from the Port of Piraeus (close to Athens) to Santorini. The journey times varies depending on the boats size and speed. It takes between 5h30 and 8h, and the prices are starting from 40€ per person.

There are also daily ferry connections between Santorini and other Greek Islands. You can get there from Naxos , Paros , Mykonos, Amorgos …

If you want to plan a ferry trip in Greece, and especially in the very touristic island of Santorini, you should book your tickets in advance.

Click the button below to check the schedules, compare prices and book your ferry tickets.

If you haven’t rented a car for your trip to Santorini, (personally, I recommend you to rent a car to make the most of your stay – more about it below), you should book a transfer from Santorini airport or port in advance .

It’s the easiest way to be taken directly to your accommodation on the island upon arrival. This will save you from waiting for a bus or a cab.

Book your airport or port transfer by clicking here!

If you want to visit Santorini, you should really rent a car. It’s the most practical way to discover the island, especially if you’re staying a few days. You can also rent a quad bike to reach some remote beaches, but in general, you can get everywhere in Santorini by car.

One of the nice surprises I had during my trip to Santorini is that all the parking spaces are free!

Whenever I’m renting a car abroad, whether I’m in Greece, in Malta or in Spain, I always book my cars on Booking.com Cars . It’s my favorite website for the following reasons:

You can compare prices between all the car rental companies in Santorini. Choose the cheapest, or the one with the best customer’s reviews!
You can get a “Full Protection Insurance” to be fully refunded in case of accident or theft (They have refunded me more than 1200 euros to date)
Cancel or modify your booking in 1 click!

Last but not least: they offer the “Best Price Guarantee” . If you find the same car cheaper elsewhere, they will refund you the difference! Click the button below to check rental cars prices in Santorini now:

On Voyagetips.com , I give you all my best tips and itineraries to plan your trip to Santorini and Greece by yourself. (Click here to read all my articles about Greece)

However, if you prefer to book a Greece tour with a travel agency , I recommend you to check the 10 best Greece tours by clicking the button below:

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your trip to the Greek islands, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental.

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Greece? 😊

I have made a tourist map of Santorini for you , to help you picture what the island looks like and where the best places to visit are located. You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button (the one with a little arrow).

Now that you know more about the best things to do in Santorin, what do you plan to visit during your trip?

Greece travel guides

Buy the Lonely Planet Greece guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
Buy the DK Eyewitness Greece guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

You’re traveling to Greece ? These articles will help you !

Discover all my articles about Greece : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Greece are listed there.

The 20 Best Things to do in Greece – The Ultimate Bucket list!
The 15 Best Things to do in Peloponnese – All the must-see attractions
Itinerary: 4-5 days in Greece – The perfect itinerary for a short stay in Greece
Itinerary: 1 week in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Santorini!
Itinerary: 6, 7 or 8 days in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Athens + Peloponnese in a week
Itinerary: 10 days in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Central Greece in 9-10 days
Itinerary: 2 weeks in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Central Greece + Cyclades (Santorini)
Itinerary: 3 weeks in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Central Greece + even more Cyclades islands!
Itinerary: 1 month in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Greece in a month!
Road trip in Greece – The best itineraries for 5, 7, 10, 15, 21 and 30 days.
Athens: The 20 Best Things to do and see
Thessaloniki: The 12 best places to visit
The 15 Best Cyclades Islands to visit – With all the must-see attractions
Itinerary: 1 week in Greek islands – How to visit the Cyclades in 6, 7 or 8 days
Itinerary: 10 days in Greek islands – The definitive guide to visit the Cyclades in 10 days!
Itinerary: Greek Island Hopping routes – The best 2 weeks itinerary to visit the Cyclades
Amorgos: The 8 best places to see
Andros: The 7 must-see attractions and activities
Naxos: Top 10 things to do
Paros: The 10 best places to visit
Tinos: The 10 best things to do
Where to stay in Santorini? Find the perfect hotel for an EPIC stay in Santorini!
Rhodes: Top 12 best places to visit

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

3 Days in Athens: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

2 Days in Athens: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

4 Days in Athens: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

Santorini Travel Guide

Courtesy of Artie Photography (Artie Ng) | Getty Images

Why Go To Santorini

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

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

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Best of Santorini

Best hotels in santorini.

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

Best Things to Do in Santorini

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

Popular Tours

Santorini Classic Catamaran Cruise with Meal Drinks and Transfers

(2790 reviews)

from $ 127.14

Best of Santorini Customized Private Tour

(243 reviews)

from $ 66.33

Santorini Wine Adventure with 12 Wine Tastings, Tapas and Sunset

(1019 reviews)

from $ 132.66

Santorini Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

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

Weather in Santorini

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

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

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

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

How to Save Money in Santorini

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

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

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

Culture & Customs

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

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

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

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

What to Eat

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

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

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

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

Getting Around Santorini

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

Entry & Exit Requirements

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

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

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A local travel writer's ultimate guide to going off-the-beaten-path in Santorini

I'm a Greece-based professional travel writer and hotel reviewer who visits Santorini every year.
Here's my ultimate guide for every step of planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Santorini, Greece.
Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations .

As a travel writer and professional hotel reviewer based in Greece for the past 15 years, I spend most of my summers in Santorini. I also head back there with my camper van for long, lazy winters.

Even Greeks I know who have all of Greece's 1,000-plus islands to choose from regularly flock to Santorini for its breathtaking views, gourmet restaurants, and spectacular boutique hotels carved out of stone that was once used to store wine.

As for me, I'm still dazzled every time I arrive on the ferry (which is the best way to get here, in my opinion). It docks at the heart of the caldera, which is the huge volcanic crater set beneath towering red-and-black lava-lined cliffs that are dotted with tiny villages. I love those stunning views and adore the island's hip hotels with their infinity pools, chic restaurants, and resident DJs. But the Santorini I'm really mad about is the one that few tourists see.

My secret Santorini is comprised of the in-the-know sunset spots or the warren of cobbled mule paths that take you far from the crowds to hike through fields where local sweet cherry tomatoes grow. The real Santorini, the one that I love, is in tiny hamlets where life goes on as it did 50 years ago. Locals say hello and bakeries still serve my favorite homemade treats — a creamy custard pie called bougatsa and the raisin-and-sesame treat, kopania.

To sample this slice of true Santorini for yourself, follow my guide to the best places to go and see on this lovely island, just like a local.

→ I travel to Santorini several times a year — here are my top tips for getting to and around the island

→ 10 swoon-worthy hotels in santorini with cliffside cave rooms and infinity pools that are also affordable, → i've been visiting santorini for 15 years — here are 9 restaurants where you'll find the most authentic food, → i spend every summer in santorini. here are 10 things i like to do when i want a tourist-free, under-the-radar vacation., → answers to 3 common questions for anyone planning a trip to santorini this year.

Main content

Santorini Travel Tips – Know Before You Go

With epic sunset views, the calm waters of the Aegean sea and white washed cliff side houses, it is no wonder that Santorini is on most people’s travel bucket list. This post covers my 5 must know travel tips for Santorini. These tips will help you make the most out of you trip and have an enjoyable experience.

Santorini is the site of one of the largest recorded volcanic eruption dating all the way back of the 16th century BC. Today, it’s popular for its breathtaking sunsets, volcanic beaches, vineyards, ancient archaeological sites and the tranquil views of the Aegean sea. The island is home to a few beautiful villages perched along its cliff edges. Oia (pronounced eeyaaa), Fira, Imerovigli and Firostefani are the main villages popular among tourists.

5 Must Know Travel Tips for Santorini

1. flying vs. ferry.

If you are planning on visiting Santorini from Athens and want to make the most of your time on the Island, I highly recommend taking a flight out of Athens. With over 20 flights per day and flying time of just 45 minutes, it is the easiest and fastest way to get in and out. The ferry on the other hand takes 5-8 hours (depending on the type of ferry). There is a myth that a ferry is the more scenic route. However, other than seeing the shores of Mykonos we did not see anything that scenic. Having taken both options to and from Santorini, I can say that flying was the better of the two.

Perhaps the only exception to this is if you are island hopping to some of the other islands. Then a ferry might make more sense as the cost might be cheaper than flying from one place to another.

2. Stay in Fira

As with all popular destinations, Santorini too is not immune from the crowds of tourists who flock to this beautiful island to experience all it has to offer. It is also a very popular cruise port which adds to the hoards of crowds. Oia is the most popular village but that also means that it is the most crowded. I recently saw a picture of Oia at night and was shocked by the amount of people on the streets. My recommendation is to stay in Fira which is not as crowded.

Fira is the capital of Santorini and is closer to both the airport and port than Oia is. It is also the central bus terminal and acts as the central exchange hub for all buses. With taxis and renting cars a little on the expensive side, buses are an easy and extremely affordable way to get around Santorini.

You can always bus it to Oia easily from Fira or even hike along Santorini’s whitewashed cliffs.

3. See the Sunset from Other Places

If you are staying in Santorini for only one evening, then you should definitely see the sunset from Oia. After all this epic shot of the sunset from the castle ruins of Oia is probably what made you want to come to Santorini in the first place. Expect however, for every nook, corner, balcony, wall and basically square inch of Oia to be filled with tourist lined up for hours waiting for this epic sunset.

If you have more than one evening, then I highly recommend traveling away from Oia and to another village on the West coast to see the sunset. Unless of course you have a private balcony in your hotel room in Oia with no tourists in sight and with an undisturbed view. Even if this is the case, I still think you should see the sunset from somewhere else for an entirely different experience.

We opted to see the sunset from Fira, after getting our fill of the sunset from Oia. It was a much more peaceful and enjoyable experience than the madness that was Oia.

See HERE for where we stayed in Fira. It has a 9.5 overall score and a 9.9 location score on Booking.

If you do decide to see the sunset from Oia, the Castle Ruins is the best place to see the sunset. However, you will have to go a good two hours before and if in the height of summer, stand in the hot sun until the “show” begins.

4. Go to a Restaurant Early

Another good option to see the sunset is to go to a restaurant. You will have to either call ahead and reserve a table or go hours ahead and eat very slowly. Kastro is a good restaurant in Oia to watch the sunset. It is high enough and basically offers more or less than same view of the sunset from the Castle Ruins. We ordered a few appetizers and a couple of seafood dishes and they are really amazing!

5. Book a Boat Tour

This is one of my favourite travel tips for Santorini and another absolutely fantastic way of seeing most of the island and avoiding the crowds. You have the option of taking a day cruise or a sunset cruise. We opted for the day cruise because we wanted to see the rest of the island when it was light outside. Our tour took us to the red beach, a black sand beach, along the volcano and to the hot springs at Nea Kameni on a catamaran. Not only did we get to jump into the blue green waters of the Aegean sea, we also saw Santorini and it’s rugged terrain from many different angles and viewpoints. We had delicious freshly cooked food and great wine (which was overflowing!) and it was a truly memorable experience.

We used Vista Yachting and they were honestly amazing and made sure we had a fantastic time. The price includes food, alcohol, hotel pick-up and drop off. What I especially liked was the size of the catamaran which held just 8 of us plus 3 of the staff.

Bonus Tip – When to Visit

A great way to avoid all these crowds and to have a peaceful relaxing experience is to visit during shoulder seasons (away from the busy months of June, July and August). May and September are still great times to visit and costs (especially accommodation cost) are significantly cheaper. These months are also not as warm as the height of summer. This being said, Santorini is not a great place to visit in the winter months. Although significantly less crowded, you will find that most places are closed and may also have very limited accomodation options.

Did you find these travel tips for Santorini useful? Please let me know by liking/commenting below or sharing this post on social media! Thank you!!

Pin this post for later!

Have you checked out my post of travel tips for all destinations? Check it out HERE .

Note: This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, I get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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Such a colourful blog with easy to follow content 👍

Thank you so much!!

What blues, beautiful. And beautiful photographs, in between them looking i don’t know why missed sipping wine! 🙂

Took your advice and did the boat tour. It was AMAZING! One thing I would say is to do it as soon as you get to santorini. That way even if the weather is bad you will have a couple of more days to reschedule the trip.

Thank you for the feedback! That is great advice!!

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Destinations

The Best Hotels in Santorini

Stay at these award-winning and editor-approved properties in Santorini, Greece.

More than 1.5 million people flock to Santorini, Greece, every year. They come for the boundless beauty, rugged terrain, fantastic food, and the unforgettable sunsets, matched only by the superb hospitality of those who live there. Travelers can stroll through the streets in Oia village, relax on the beautiful white and black sand beaches, head out for a sailing tour around the coast, or, spend their entire day holed up in one of its ultra-luxurious hotels that each offers their own perfect views, meals, and experiences. Ready to see it all for yourself? We’ve rounded up this list of the best hotels in Santorini based on a mix of editor-loved properties, firsthand experience, and winners from our World’s Best Awards and highly coveted It List.

Andronis Boutique Hotel

Adronis Boutique Hotel

Caldera views and intimate spaces create a truly inviting atmosphere.

It's a luxury destination, which means its peak season pricing can be high.

Andronis Boutique Hotel, a T+L reader's pick in the 2023 World's Best Awards, located on the cliffs of Oia, combines classic white-washed Greek architecture with plenty of lavish touches to create one epic hotel. Here, guests can swim in the exquisite bright blue pool overlooking the sea, dine at the Lauda Restaurant, which has equally beautiful views, and sleep in suites with their own plunge pools, too. Guests can also take part in the hotel's superb experiences program, which includes guided tours and wine tastings, so you can indulge however you like.

The Details:

Location: Oia
Distance From Airport: 10 miles from Santorini Airport
Accessibility: No accessible rooms listed
Wi-Fi: Included
Resort Fee: No
Parking: No
Rates: Starting at $1,410 per night

Andronis Luxury Suites

Panoramic views and exceptional dining make for a memorable stay.

The hotel is only open to adults and kids over 13, so families with small children will want to look elsewhere.

Andronis Luxury Suites is another T+L World's Best Awards winner in 2023, and sits just a few minutes away from its sister boutique property. Here, guests can expect the same elevated quality and meticulously well-designed suites that come with their own private pools. Guests can dig into a first-rate meal at Lycabettus Restaurant, which sits perched at the edge of the cliff, providing some of the best sunset views on the island. Don't miss the hotel's Mare Sanus Spa while you're there, either.

Location: Oia
Rates: Starting at $991 per night

Canaves Oia Boutique Hotel

17th-century caves have been transformed into elegant rooms that open to gorgeous panoramic views of the clear waters below.

Its open-air restaurant means you may be out of luck for an on-site meal if it's raining.

Canaves Oia Boutique Hotel, a World's Best Awards winner in 2023, may look wholly contemporary, but behind all that beautiful remodeling is a seriously cool history. The hotel is built inside 17th-century caves that were once used to store wine and were transformed into a stunning hotel by the Chaidemenos family. Now, guests can enjoy the same seaside caves turned into chic suites boasting private plunge pools and ocean views. Those who want to get out on the water can also take advantage of the hotel's private sailing and yachting excursions.

Distance From Airport: 10.5 miles from Santorini Airport
Accessibility: There is an elevator, but no accessible rooms listed
Rates: Starting at $633 per night

Canaves Oia Epitome

StÃ¥le Eriksen / Canaves Oia Epitome

Its slightly secluded location is ideal for a peaceful retreat.

If you want to be in the middle of the action of Santorini this may not be the hotel for you.

Canaves Oia Epitome, which appeared in 2023's World’s Best Awards, blends seamlessly into the natural surroundings, adding a peaceful and connected vibe to your stay. The property sits just outside all the hustle and bustle, making it a prime spot for those really looking to unwind. Its suites come with private plunge pools, but the hotel's common pool is also perfect for spending an entire day sunbathing. Plus, the hotel offers private sailing and yachting adventures, so you could spend each day in a different body of water.

Distance From Airport: 11 miles from Santorini Airport
Parking: Parking is available
Rates: Starting at $530 per night

Katikies Santorini

Its small number of rooms makes it feel like a private retreat.

Its multiple levels and many steps may be difficult to navigate for some.

Katikies Santorini took home the number one spot for the best resorts in Greece in T+L's 2023 World's Best Awards. And it's easy to see why. For a small hotel, it packs in some major amenities like three infinity pools, sun decks, a fine dining restaurant, and access to the spa at its sister property, Katikies Kirini. Though every room here comes with great views, its plunge pool suite is worth the upgrade for all its marvelous outdoor space.

Parking: Free parking available
Rates: Starting at $690 per night

Andronis Arcadia

Tryfon N. Georgopoulos / Adronis Arcadia

The hotel's spa-centered luxury ensures total relaxation.

The hotel's live music can get a bit lively, a consideration for those looking for complete tranquility.

Andronis Acadia, voted one of the best hotels in Greece by T+L readers in our World’s Best Awards 2023, is a sanctuary for anyone who wants to disconnect from all the stressors of the world. Not only does it offer awe-inspiring views and epic accommodations, but it's also home to the Evexia Spa, which offers signature treatments and hours-long rituals. There's also the Kneipp pools, two L-shaped pools you can walk through with stones at the bottom for a little reflexology session.

Accessibility: There are accessible rooms, however, many public spaces are difficult to navigate
Rates: Starting at $754 per night

Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel

It's got style oozing out of every corner.

The hotel is only open to guests 16 and over, so families with younger teens will need to look for alternate accommodations.

Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is yet another World's Best Awards winner for 2023. It's a place where you feel a little bit cooler just by checking in. Its aesthetic is clean and simple, with earthy tones and dazzling blue pools hanging over the cliff's edge to the equally alluring water below. At this adults-only retreat, guests can find peace in their rooms that come with artisan-crafted furnishings and private balconies, or a little adventure with a wine tasting in the hotel's private cave.

Parking: Public parking available for a fee
Rates: Starting at $843 per night

Vedema, A Luxury Collection Resort

Its secluded location gives guests a peek at living in a traditional Greek village.

It's a bit isolated from the main tourist spots, so transportation is a must.

Vedema, a hotel found in the quaint village of Megalochori, is a World's Best Awards 2021 winner with a ton of charm and history. Hundreds of years ago, the building was used as a wine cellar, then as a private mansion, and now, as a well-appointed hotel that you can call your home away from home. The hotel is ideal for families or those traveling in groups as it offers suites and full estates like the Nafsika Estate, which comes with five bedrooms, a private pool, and butler service to ensure every need is tended to.

Location: Megalochori
Distance From Airport: 5 miles from Santorini Airport
Parking: Free parking available
Rates: Starting at $254 per night

Design Hotels

The hotel comes with just 12 suites, offering travelers a more private, intimate experience.

The hotel is farther away from many of the main tourist attractions.

Istoria is a 12-suite retreat that is truly a work of art. Guests will love the hotel’s charming cream-colored building and all its soft, rounded corners punctuated by olive trees and cacti, set against striking black sand beaches. Suites here come with a unique moniker that each translates to "story" in a different language, like the Storia (Italian for story), Tarina (Finnish), and the Recit (French) suites. But all of them come with Greek bath amenities, plush bathrobes, and super soft linens for a restful night's sleep.

Location: Perivolos
Distance From Airport: 8 miles from Santorini airport
Accessibility: Mostly flat terrain
Parking: Free parking is available
Rates: Starting at $385 per night

Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection, Santorini, Greece

Tryfon N. Georgopoulos / Grace Hotel

Its cliffside location makes you feel like you're on top of the world.

That same cliffside location means lots of steps, which can be difficult for some to navigate.

The Grace Hotel earned a spot in our 2022 World's Best Awards and was named the best hotel in all of Europe in 2021. The cliffside property provides sensational views of both the ocean and Skaros Rock. Guests can slip into the infinity pool to drink in those views, or book a suite with a private plunge pool and patio and take it all in with total privacy. At the end of the day, have an elegant meal at Varoulko Santorini, which serves divine Greek cuisine and some of the best views on the island.

Location: Imerovigli
Parking: Self-service parking is available
Rates: Starting at $651 per night

“On the quieter side of Santorini, where the same iconic whitewashed architecture and stunning sunsets can be found without the crowds, this recently redesigned 23-room hotel is ideally suited for quiet intimate moments, whether that's for meditative mornings staring out at the blue waters of the Aegean Sea or afternoons soaking in the cliffside infinity pool.”

–T+L Editors

This family-owned hotel has an unmatched welcoming environment.

It's slightly secluded from town, which means you'll need to walk or get a ride to see the touristy sites.

Carved into the cliffs above the Aegean Sea, Perivolas is truly one with the landscape. The rooms here are white-washed dreams with perfect pops of pink to make it feel a little more festive. And while the pools and dining areas are certainly worth your time, the wellness suite is a must. Here, guests can unwind in the outdoor jacuzzi, the steam room, or the sauna, and pick from a lengthy menu of facial and body treatments.

Location: Perivolas
Distance From Airport: 9.5 miles from Santorini Airport
Accessibility: No Accessible rooms listed
Rates: Starting at $564 per night

Erosantorini

Erosantorini's location provides plenty of privacy for travelers who want to feel like they have the island all to themselves.

The hotel is a bit outside the center of Fira so you'll have to drive or get a ride to go into town.

Erosantorini offers something most other spots in Santorini can't — space. The private estate sits on two acres, which may as well be a million on the island. The hotel is made up of just five suites, which can be rented individually, or bought out in its entirety for up to 10 adults and four children at once. Here, everything is individually curated, from meals to adventures, which can include archeological tours, sailings, and wine tastings.

Location: Fira
Distance From Airport: 3 miles from Santorini Airport
Accessibility: No accessible rooms listed
Rates: Starting at $741 per night

NOŪS Santorini

NOUÌS Santorini

It's a beautiful hotel with a stunning art collection to match.

It's a bit removed from the more traveled tourism areas, so you may want to rent a car.

Like many others on this list, NOŪS Santorini comes with style (hello, white-washed walls, and ultra-cool interior designs), but here, it's more about what you don't see than what you do. The hotel is passionate about sustainability and uses programs like recycled gray water for its plants and sources local produce as much as it can for its restaurant to ensure the smallest carbon footprint possible. And even with all that sustainability, it doesn't sacrifice an inch when it comes to style.

Location: Mesaria
Distance From Airport: 2 miles from Santorini Airport
Accessibility: Accessible rooms available
Rates: Starting at $329 per night

The Vasilicos

Every last detail is extremely thoughtful, right down to the locally-made ceramic dishes.

The hotel is made up of several terraces, which can be difficult to navigate for those with reduced mobility.

The Vasilicos proudly honors its past as the one-time private home of an avid art collector. Now, the boutique property has a stunning collection all its own. However, the best views are out the windows onto the sea just outside. Every suite comes with stunning vistas along with private hot tubs and plunge pools, plus access to common spaces and candlelit dinners made by the in-house chef.

Location: Imerovigli
Rates: Starting at $422 per night

Santorini Sky

Santorini Sky sits at some of the highest elevation on the island, offering unmatched views.

Its high-altitude location means you need to drive to visit Santorini's main attractions.

Find yourself at one of the highest points on the island at Santorini Sky. While every hotel on our list has an epic view, this one is just a little more special thanks to the hotel's elevation, allowing visitors to see the homes speckling the landscape below straight out to the sea. The hotel is made up of a group of villas, including the Master Villa, which comes with a king-size bed, full kitchen, and private pool, so you can move right in for as long as you'd like.

Location: Pyrgos Kallistis
Distance From Airport: 6 miles from Santorini Airport
Rates: Starting at $133 per night

Know Before You Go

Peak season can get very crowded.

Santorini is a very popular place . As we mentioned above, more than a million people visit every year, most of whom descend on the island during the peak summer season. Expect the island to be extremely crowded and more expensive during the summer months, so make your plans early. Want to avoid the crowds? Come during Santorini's shoulder seasons from May through early June and September through October.

Santorini has its own international airport

Santorini is an easier Greek island to get to than others thanks to its own international airport. The airport only services domestic Greek and European destinations directly, but that just means you can easily get from here to one of Europe's best cities to continue your vacation in style. You can also get there by ferry via several other islands or from Athens as well.

The island can be difficult to navigate for some

Santorini isn't an easy island to get around for those with reduced mobility. Most of the hotels above are built on terraced land, meaning there are many stairs and levels to navigate. Make sure to consider this before booking any hotel and reach out to their concierge teams to see what is available to accommodate your particular needs.

How We Chose These Hotels

Several of the hotels chosen for this story have earned spots in our World's Best Awards and It list , and many are also personal favorites of our editors. Writer Stacey Leasca has visited many of Greece's islands, staying in and touring various hotels and spending evenings watching the best sunsets on earth in Santorini. She also consulted family and friends who frequent the region for their input and researched guest reviews from a multitude of websites. And finally, as with all our hotel roundups, editors ensure all hotel recommendations we make align with our core T+L Hotel Values .

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I am definitely aiming to do the Fira hika to Oia ( sunrise or sunset is best ? ), wanted to see Akrotiri, amoudi bay, Akrotiri, skaros rock and maybe fitting the wine tour. Is it any tour at decent price where i can see the best spot in Santorini without spending a fortune ? Any tip and advise will be much appreciated . Any great restaurant tips and places to watch the sunset at not an extortionate price? sorry if i am asking too much

10 replies to this topic

Tours are very expensive, and you are stuck in a group. The worst thing about Santorini is the tour groups. You can easily take the bus to Oia and Akrotiri. Skaros Rock is in Imerovigli. For wine tasting, you can take the bus to Megalochori and visit Gavalas Winery (my favorite assyrtiko producer) in addition to the town. For a more commercial experience, you can go enjoy the views and wine at Santos Winery (also reachable by bus). And if the bus timing is inconvenient, it's very easy to get a taxi.

As for watching the sunset, many bars/restaurants have sunset views, or you can just find a random spot on the street where you can see it. Again, I think Imerovigli has the best views.

Have a look on booking.com etc as €120 a night for a stunning view will be difficult ,

Thank you all for the tip . I was looking to book Pearl on the Cliff Hotel & Suites by Pearl Hotel Collection , seems it has a stunning view and hopefully it will be quiet enough for me

If you google bus timetable it comes up, i took a screen grab but cant put photos on here

Wow great price £248 on booking.com. Im so surprised but glad you found somewhere in budget. Looks fab

For bus times go to santorini dave.

Excellent info of all bus schedules and other good info.

Here is link to the official bus time table:

https://ktel-santorini.gr/index.php/en/services/timetable-summer

For affordable accommodations try using the filter system on the booking dot com website.

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GOSSIP GIRL: Santorini on a Pinoy budget

At a glance.

I am here in Europe in preparation for my concert in Amsterdam at the Casa Sofia on June 1 with Nhelly dela Rosa and Vanessa Tan and produced by visual artist and publisher Geraldine Hernandez Martens of Europe Pinoy.

GREECE - Many Pinoys think Santorini is reserved for the rich and famous. Based on my five days here on the most visited island in Greece, you can travel to Santorini on a budget like me. I am here in Europe in preparation for my concert in Amsterdam at the Casa Sofia on June 1 with Nhelly dela Rosa and Vanessa Tan and produced by visual artist and publisher Geraldine Hernandez Martens of Europe Pinoy.

The “Para sa Pilipinas” concert is dedicated to the Vice President of the Philippines, “Inday” Sara Z. Duterte, as she celebrates her birthday this May 31. I decided to come to Europe beforehand to take my husband Emil and the two kids to Santorini.

Before watching Mamma Mia, I already vowed to myself that I would bring my family to the black pearl of the Aegean because I visited this breathtaking island fifteen years ago with crooner Eric Santos after our successful concert for the Pinoys in Athens.

With Santorini’s stunning blue-domed churches, whitewashed buildings clinging to cliff faces , and electric blue beaches, plus the mamma mia vibe, I just had to bring the entire fam here, and to my joy, I could do it on a budget. Here are the tips to go to Santorini without breaking the bank:

1. Several budget airlines operate in Europe, offering competitive prices for flights to popular destinations like Santorini. One key tip is to be flexible with your travel dates. By doing so and booking in advance , you can secure a great deal on airfare, making your dream of visiting Santorini a reality. We came from the beautiful country of Budapest. If you are willing to fly on a 10 kilo- baggage , you can fly round trip from Budapest to Athens for as low as ten thousand pesos, and from Athens to San torini round trip, you can fly RyanAir for as low as P8,000.

2. Once you arrive in Santorini, it's essential to make smart choices regarding accommodation. Do not book in Oia or Fira because that is where the luxury hotels and exclusive resorts are. Consider booking a hotel in one of the less touristy areas of the island, where prices tend to be lower. This is precisely what we did as we booked through booking.com two beautiful rooms at the Artemis Village, a boutique hotel in Caldera Beach. Artemis Village Hotel is a charming accommodation option located near the beach, offering guests a peaceful and scenic setting to enjoy their stay on the island. The hotel provides easy access to the beach, allowing us to relax by the water and soak in the stunning views of the Aegean Sea , which is why you should go to Santorini. The kids enjoyed amenities such as a swimming pool, sun loungers, and friendly staff headed by Mr. and Mrs Artmeis, who are ready to assist with any needs or inquiries. They even offered a free shuttle service to the airport and helped us book our car to go around the island for only thirty euros a day. How much is Artemis Village? We only spent P23,000 for four nights, and that’s two rooms.

3. When it comes to dining, while there are plenty of upscale restaurants offering stunning views and gourmet meals, there are also many affordable options that won't break the bank. Look for local tavernas and casual eateries where you can sample traditional Greek dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and fresh seafood without spending a fortune. Feel free to wander off the beaten path and explore the smaller villages on the island, where you're more likely to find authentic, budget-friendly dining options. Just look at the price difference : in our area in Karterados B each, a large mineral water bottle (you cannot drink water from the tap in Santorini) costs .50 cents (euro). When we got to Oia, the supermarket beside Kookoo Café charged us 2 euros for a small bottle of mineral water. What a tourist trap! Other smaller villages to check out for cheap food are Emporio, Pyrgos, and Megalochori.

4. You can only go to Santorini to watch the sunset in Oia and bask i n the view of Fira. So rent a car for thirty euros. It will still come out cheaper because the hotels in Fira and Oia are crazy expensive , and there are too many tourists; you will have no privacy o n your terrace. Parking is also free all over Santorini. If you see paid parking, chances are three lots beside it have free parking. Just pay attention to one-way signs so you will not be ticketed.

In addition to saving money on flights, food, and accommodation, there are plenty of free and inexpensive activities to enjoy in Santorini. Our family took strolls through the charming villages of Oia and Fira, where we admired the Aegean Sea's iconic architecture and panoramic views . We had no more time to visit the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, an archaeological site that offers a fascinating glimpse into Santorini's rich history. But do place that in your itinerary. My best experience was when we spent a day at the Kaldera beach, swam in their ice-cold water, sunbathed, and relaxed without spending a centavo because the beach entrance was free. By following these tips and being mindful of your budget, you can experience the magic of Santorini without breaking the bank. From affordable airfare to budget-friendly dining options and cheap places to stay, there are plenty of ways to make your dream vacation a reality without emptying your wallet.

6 Last-Minute Travel Tips for the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse

I n less than a month, people will look to the sky as the moon passes between the sun and the Earth in a celestial event known as a total solar eclipse . The phenomenon is set for April 8, 2024, and the next one that can be seen from contiguous United States will be August 2044 , so it's unsurprising that eclipse fever has gripped the nation. Between 1 and 4 million people are predicted to travel to the path of totality, joining the 31 million people already living within it.

Among the tours, cruises, hotels, and even scenic flights offering their own spin on the total solar eclipse experience, here are six tips that last-minute planners should keep in mind for the special day.

1. Figure out where you want to go

There are 13 U.S. states on the path of this year's eclipse: Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine (small parts of Tennessee and Michigan are also in the path). Among all of these states, totality will occur in two national parks-Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas and Cuyahoga National Park in Ohio-and they're expected to get crowded. Instead, consider one of the more than 100 state parks along the path, some of which are more off the radar. If you're more of a city dweller, you can also experience totality in big cities, including San Antonio, Austin, Cleveland, and Rochester.

Consider the weather, too. According to NOAA 's past weather records, April weather seems to bring more chances of rain-meaning more potential for cloud coverage-in the Northeast than in the South.

2. Consider the length of totality

Aiming for a destination in the path of totality is a no-brainer, although the amount of totality you'll get depends on where you go. The closer to the center of the path of totality an area is, the longer the total eclipse lasts. Take Austin and Dallas: While both are on the path of totality, Austin will get 1 minute and 46 seconds of totality, while Dallas will get 3 minutes and 52 seconds of totality. The longest duration you can get for totality is about 4 minutes and 30 seconds. Particularly traveler-friendly spots to maximize your time in the dark are Texas Hill Country towns like Kerrville (which will receive around 4 minutes and 24 seconds of totality and is partnering with NASA) and Fredericksburg (which is set to get 4 minutes 23 seconds of totality). Texas Hill Country is also one of AFAR's best places to go in 2024 .

3. Consider camping

If you want a solar eclipse experience surrounded by nature rather than people, camping may suit you better. But booking developed campgrounds at state parks and well-known nature spots will likely be difficult at this point. As an alternative, check for privately owned land through platforms like Hipcamp or look for dispersed camping sites in a national forest, like Ozark National Forest or Green Mountain National Forest . While backcountry spots may not have amenities, they can be perfect for those seeking solitude.

In addition, be sure to check the capacity of a park when it comes to handling the influx of visitors for April 8. As an example, Erie's tourism board is discouraging visits to Presque Isle State Park to prevent bottleneck traffic from its one entry and exit point.

4. Look into a town, festival, or last-minute tour

Plenty of places within the path of totality are putting their own spin on the solar eclipse with dedicated festivities. Get an educational experience at Rochester Museum & Science Center's ROC the Eclipse Festival , a three-day event that includes talks titled "Frontiers of Plasma Physics" and "The Search for Earth-Like Planets" from science experts. Or lean into grandeur at the four-day Texas Eclipse Festival in Burnet, Texas; its lineup includes music performances, yoga sessions, and immersive art experiences. (If you're heading to Texas for the eclipse event in general, check out this interactive map of special activities happening across the state.)

If the mere thought of navigating trip logistics brings a headache, check for the availability of some solar eclipse tours. Some tours still have availability, like Holland America Line's whopping 22-day Solar Eclipse cruise tour through North America. Others, like Travel Quest's Mexico's Copper Canyon Total Solar Eclipse tour , only have wait-list spots. But don't give up hope: As last-minute cancellations roll in, a quick call could secure you a place.

5. Try to get a last-minute spot at hotels in the path of totality

Hotels are leaning into the solar eclipse experience too, and properties are throwing celebrations and dedicated solar eclipse events just for the event. Miraval Austin Resort and Spa is hosting a viewing session with its astrologer, while Hôtel Swexan in Dallas is offering solar eclipse wellness activities on the evening of April 8 that includes meditation, a sound bath, and a Reiki healing session.

Keep in mind that a last-minute booking may cost a premium. Properties all across the band of totality are recording sky-high prices -even budget hotels . Similar to booking tours, do your due diligence and call to check for a cancellation.

6. Come prepared

Of course, you should wear solar eclipse glasses to prevent permanent damage to your eyes. If you're going to an event, check to see if they will be provided or if you'll need to bring your own. If you don't want to buy them, you can use household materials like cardboard to make your own pinhole projector , a contraption that allows you to see the sun change shape as the moon crosses in front of it.

In addition to bringing materials for the day of the event, anticipate what happens next. The length of totality is less than five minutes, but the traffic afterwards may disrupt your plans for hours. If you're coming from a crowded park or city, be on the safe side and come prepared with extra snacks and water.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun in total alignment.

Points influencers are everywhere. Some trips look too good to be true.

In the age of affiliate links and sponsored content, some travel influencers are overselling the lifestyle.

If you binge-watch videos on your phone for long enough, you’re likely to run into at least one clip about travel “hacking.”

Discover ways to fly free , one video might say. Crisscross the globe and stay at hotels without paying a dime, another may declare. These TikTok and Instagram posts are popular for a reason.

Leveraging loyalty and rewards programs from airlines, hotels and credit cards has helped travelers save for decades; American Express and American Airlines were some of the first players in the 1980s .

Complex rules have made the universe of points and miles seem inaccessible to people outside the world of frequent business travel, but that audience is expanding as barriers to entry are lowered. Today there are hundreds of blogs and social media accounts dedicated entirely to breaking down the nuances of points and miles. However, you can’t trust them all .

The world of points and miles is a game, albeit a long one. It can be worth it, but only if you play responsibly.

The business of influencing

Max Do, a former full-time graphic designer in San Diego, pivoted to creating content about points, miles and travel rewards in 2019 under the MaxMilesPoints account. Do says there has been an explosion of influencers who have joined in since then.

“I certainly wasn’t one of the first, but the number of points and miles creators that focus on travel has saturated Instagram and TikTok in the last couple of years,” he says.

Creators hook their audiences with travel experiences. Often, these are clips of extravagant business- and first-class flights and stays at five-star hotels and resorts — all, supposedly, booked with points.

Other accounts, meanwhile, focus more on the educational component of travel rewards, breaking down the specific methods to collect points and miles to later redeem with exacting detail (commonly referred to as “earn and burn”).

“When creating my posts and videos, I like to think about avid rewards people but also someone making their first redemption,” Do says.

@maxmilespoints ⬇️ More Info⁠ ⁠ ALL ONE-WAY, double it if you want round-trip⁠ ⁠ ✈️ Iberia Business Class Off-Peak ⁠ ⁠ 35,000 from the Midwest / East Coast to Madrid⁠ 42,500 from the West Coast to Madrid⁠ ⁠ Book directly with Iberia, or you can book through British Airways.⁠ ⁠ Amex, Bilt, and other points transfer directly to Iberia.⁠ ⁠ Amex, Bilt, Capital One, and other points transfers to British Airways.⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ✈️ TAP Portugal⁠ ⁠ 35,000 Avianca LifeMiles ⁠ New York (JFK) to Lisbon, Portugal⁠ ⁠ Book directly with Avianca LifeMiles⁠ ⁠ Amex, Bilt, Capital One, Citi points transfers to Avianca Lifemiles⁠ This is the only route ⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ✈️ ANA⁠ ⁠ 45,000 Virgin Points (west coast)⁠ 47,500 Virgin Points (east coast)⁠ ⁠ Find award availability and then book through Virgin Atlantic by calling them.⁠ ⁠ Amex, Bilt, Capital One, Citi, and other credit card points are transfers to Virgin Atlantic. ⁠ ♬ original sound - Max Miles Points

For creators who focus on rewards programs, posting travel videos can be lucrative. As the business of influencing continues to flourish, creators typically can earn revenue in the form of paid partnerships, sponsored content or, in this case, selling products.

“The trend I see generally is that personal finance creators will leverage stories of their own travels to promote travel credit cards,” says Katie Gatti Tassin, founder of personal finance brand Money With Katie . Since starting her site and social media profiles in 2020, she’s seen an uptick in accounts with credit card affiliate links.

Here’s how those links work: Let’s say you open Instagram, watch a creator’s video and later feel compelled to apply for a credit card through them (often via a link found in their account bio). If approved, the creator will earn a commission — sometimes hundreds of dollars per card, according to Gatti Tassin.

For consumers, credit card bonus offers are the quickest way to earn points and miles in a hurry. It’s not unusual to see sign-up offers exceed 100,000 points. Apply for a card, get approved, spend a certain amount within a set period and those points will be deposited into your account.

Travel inspo vs. smart finances

Gen Z and millennials are increasingly reliant on social media apps as a search and recommendation tool. And when it comes to points and miles, there’s often a blurry line between two niches: travel inspiration and personal finance advice.

“There are many creators out there who just reveal clips of incredible first-class seats or an overwater villa, say they redeemed everything on points, and shove a credit card in your face,” Do says. According to Do, that content is “oversimplified” to get people to pay attention.

Among a few of the issues that Do sees as red flags:

Videos that promote first-class and business-class seats that are extremely difficult to redeem
Claiming an ability to earn hundreds of thousands (or even millions) of miles quickly
An assertion that there’s only one “correct” way to redeem points for travel

Overall, there’s often a lack of nuance that creates more questions than answers for audiences.

“We also always see the humblebrags about the number of credit cards in someone’s wallet, but the average person likely does not want to deal with 20 cards — no matter how many bonus points are available,” Do says.

Credit card rewards can provide immense value to travelers, but it’s important to know when content is too good to be true or an impractical get-points-rich-quick scheme.

“Rewards can save you a ton of money or provide travel experiences you otherwise wouldn't be able to afford,” Gatti Tassin says.

Advertising rules for influencers

Because of the inherent financial implications with credit cards, there’s more at stake than, say, someone sharing an outfit that can be purchased through affiliate links.

Organizations such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) require influencers to disclose when paid affiliate links are being used.

Meanwhile, although the Transportation Department doesn’t have direct oversight of credit card marketing practices, it still works closely with the CFPB. That’s because travel is so closely interconnected with the U.S. financial system. At a joint hearing on May 9 with the CFPB on credit card, airline and hotel rewards, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said, “If a customer makes significant decisions that might include not just what airlines to fly, but what credit card to use … it matters that the reward they get for that is as advertised.”

Each credit card company also has a compliance team that ensures products are communicated appropriately to audiences. “How our products are presented is important to us, both so prospective customers have accurate information when making decisions about applying for a credit card, and so our current customers understand the benefits their cards offer,” a Capital One spokesperson said.

“Travel rewards require a level of financial literacy the average consumer probably does not have, so as a creator, you are responsible for educating before encouraging them to apply,” Gatti Tassin said.

That includes subtleties about how credit works.

Advice for new cardholders

The first rule of playing points is simple: If you’re already struggling with credit card debt, you shouldn’t be charging more to chase the fantasy of a “free” vacation.

“If you have credit card debt, it doesn’t make sense to pay 20 percent or more in interest just to get a few percentage points’ worth of airline miles, hotel points or cash back,” says Ted Rossman, a senior industry analyst for Bankrate. “About two-thirds of people with credit card debt are making the mistake of chasing rewards while paying high interest charges.”

Rossman notes that applying for a rewards card may initially ding your credit score, but there could be a positive impact in the long term.

“Your credit score usually declines a little bit (often five to 10 points) after applying for a credit card, but after a few months of responsible card usage, there’s a good chance your credit score could be even higher than before,” he adds. “Positive payment history helps, as does keeping your card usage low.”

As for collecting points and miles responsibly with credit cards? Well, don’t even think about the world of rewards until after your first or second card and you’re able to build strong credit habits. Paying in full each month is key.

“Over time, you can layer in more expenses and eventually get to a point where you’re putting all of your routine purchases on a credit card and paying in full to avoid interest while earning rewards,” Rossman says.

And remember that cash-back cards are out there, too. Cash back is the top credit card feature in the United States by a wide margin, according to Bankrate.

“Travel rewards can be more lucrative, but they’re also more work,” Rossman stresses.

More travel tips

Vacation planning: Start with a strategy to maximize days off by taking PTO around holidays. Experts recommend taking multiple short trips for peak happiness . Want to take an ambitious trip? Here are 12 destinations to try this year — without crowds.

Cheap flights: Follow our best advice for scoring low airfare , including setting flight price alerts and subscribing to deal newsletters. If you’re set on an expensive getaway, here’s a plan to save up without straining your credit limit.

Airport chaos: We’ve got advice for every scenario , from canceled flights to lost luggage . Stuck at the rental car counter? These tips can speed up the process. And following these 52 rules of flying should make the experience better for everyone.

Expert advice: Our By The Way Concierge solves readers’ dilemmas , including whether it’s okay to ditch a partner at security, or what happens if you get caught flying with weed . Submit your question here . Or you could look to the gurus: Lonely Planet and Rick Steves .

When to book, fly: Expedia's booking tips can help make your trip more carefree

A new survey by Expedia shows what you probably already know: Americans find air travel stressful.

According to data released Wednesday, travel is a top stressor for 55% of respondents, with some saying the thought of booking a flight and going to the airport makes them more anxious than filing their taxes or even going to the dentist.

“People, according to the research, are really stressed about the possibility of their flights being canceled and experience those disruptions,” Christie Hudson, head of Expedia public relations in the U.S., told USA TODAY. “There’s some stress that’s happening even just from the planning process,” especially around getting the best possible deal on tickets.

With that in mind, she highlighted some of the survey’s findings and offered some of her top tips for reducing stress and getting the best deal when you travel.

What’s the best day to book your flights?

The best day to book is a constant topic of debate among travelers. According to Hudson, Expedia’s data suggests that Sunday is the likely answer.

While she acknowledged that airline prices are extremely dynamic and booking on Sunday doesn’t guarantee you the best price every time, on average it is when the cheapest fares are available.

“We’re looking at billions of data points of actual booked and flown flights,” Hudson said.

According to Expedia’s research, booking on Sunday can save you around 6% on domestic flights and 13% on international flights compared to what you’d pay if you booked on a Friday.

How long before your trip should you book your flights?

Another key element to getting the best deal is booking with the right amount of time before your flight.

For domestic flights, the best deals are typically available around a month before departure, when fares are 24% cheaper than they are at the last minute. For international itineraries, 60 days prior to takeoff is the ideal booking window. Expedia found prices for international flights peak about four months before departure, and come down about 10% around the 60-day mark.

“We really recommend that 60-day window because that’s when you’re going to be able to save around 10% but you’re also going to be far enough out that you can get the right route and the seat you want on that airplane,” Hudson said.

She added that with those windows in mind, it’s a good time to start researching your fall and winter holiday travel.

What is the best day to fly?

Aside from the week of Thanksgiving when Wednesday is especially busy, middle-of-the-week flights tend to be the least expensive and the least crowded.

Expedia’s research found Thursdays are typically the cheapest, around 16% less expensive than Sundays, which is usually the most expensive day to depart.

“Book on a Sunday, leave on a Thursday, and make sure you lock in your plans around 28 days out,” Hudson said. “That should be your bible.”

What is the best time to fly?

Another major stressor for travelers, Expedia found, was flight delays and cancellations.

Hudson said to reduce the chances of issues with your flight, it’s best to travel early in the day.

“The tip there is you need to take a morning flight,” Hudson said. “Around a third of travelers try to avoid morning flights because the whole getting up early and getting to the airport thing stresses them out.” But, she added, Expedia’s research showed flights are less likely to get canceled if they’re scheduled to depart before 3 p.m.

On the plus side, Hudson added, the cancellation rate is improving compared to last year, even as episodes of poor airline reliability continue to generate headlines.

Flight canceled or delayed? Here's what you're owed.

How else can you reduce stress in air travel?

One other tip Hudson had was to take advantage of price protections when they’re available. These include things like Expedia’s Price Drop Protection and Google Flights’ price guarantee will both refund you the difference if airfare drops on eligible itineraries after you’ve purchased through the platform.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected]

IMAGES

10 Best Things to Do in Santorini
7 Best Places to Visit in Santorini Greece
Santorini Travel Essentials
10 Best Things To Do in Santorini, Greece [with Suggested Tours]
Things to Do in Santorini
12 Best Things To Do In Santorini, Greece

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COMMENTS

First time Santorini: top tips for your first trip
The best times to visit Santorini without the crowds. Peak travel time to Santorini is July and August, when prices soar and hotels, viewpoints and beaches are packed with tourists. The shoulder season months of April, May, early June, late September and October are better times to visit.
21 Things You Need To Know For A Trip To Santorini (2024)
If you want to have more options in restaurants then Mykonos is better. If you only care about adventurous things to do then Santorini is your place. If you are interested in amazing wine and wineries then Santorini is your place. If you want a more romantic place then Santorini is your ideal destination. 11.
Santorini Travel Guide (Updated 2024)
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 One of the Most-visited Islands in the World
Santorini's best-known village draws the crowds to its cobblestoned alleyways lined with elegant art galleries, boutiques carrying Greek designer labels and the island's iconic blue-domed ...
Santorini Greece
Santorini is an island in Greece, located in the Aegean Sea, 200 km southeast of Athens, 150 km south of Mykonos, and 140 km north of Crete. Flights to Santorini take 4 hours from London, 3.5 hours from Paris, 2 hours from Rome, and 1 hour from Athens. There are no direct flights to Santorini from the USA, Canada, or Australia.
Santorini Travel Guide: Things To Do in Santorini, Greece
Our Santorini tips in your Google Maps? We made it easier for you! All our tips: favourite to do's, restaurants, hikes, secret spots & more in Google Maps! ... 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 ...
Top tips for your first trip to Santorini
Akrotiri's views come cheaper than Oia's, but it's a fair way from the action of Fira. Santorini's east coast is lesser known than the celebrated west. Here, the caldera-edge heights have sloped down to sea level, and volcanic-sand beaches and resorts offer a very different drawcard. East coast resorts such as Kamari and Perissa have a ...
The Ultimate Santorini Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors
7 Santorini Travel Guide: Getting Around Santorini. 8 Where to Eat in Santorini. 8.1 Seafood Tavern at Ammoudi Bay. 8.2 Melitini Restaurant in Oia. 8.3 Lolita for Gelato in Oia. 8.4 Salt & Pepper in Fira. 8.5 Naoussa in Fira. 8.6 Art Café in Fira. 8.7 Buddha Bar.
The Ultimate Guide to Santorini, Greece: Best Things to Do
Here are my favorite hotels in Santorini: Katikies Hote l (Oia), for the best luxury, romantic hotel. Grace Hotel (Imerovigli), for the best-secluded hotel. Astra Suites (Imerovigli), for the best design for the dollar. Mystique Santorini (Oia), for the best views. Kirini Suites (Oia), for the best ultra luxe stay.
What to do in Santorini in 4 days
How to spend four days in Santorini - Santorini Travel Tips. Santorini is one of the most famous Greek islands, and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Greece.. The strange volcanic landscapes, the blue domed churches and the spectacular sunsets make it one of the most popular destinations for international visitors.
2 Days in Santorini: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)
Day 1 of this itinerary in Santorini - The iconic villages. A: Visit to Fira. B: Hiking from Fira to Oia. C: Walk to Oia. Day 2 of your week-end in Santorini: the best things to do and see. Option 1 - Boat trip around Santorini. Option 2 - Tour of the island in road trip mode. Option 3 - Other organised tours.
A guide to Santorini
By bus. There is no direct bus to Santorini airport. You'll need to take two buses, firstly to Fira and then change at the main bus depot for the airport bus. Tickets are cash only and cost €2.30 per person for the Fira bus which you'll pay to the driver. The trip takes about 20 minutes.
How To Enjoy 4 Days In Santorini: Detailed Santorini Itinerary
Skip Ahead To My Advice Here! 4 Days In Santorini. Day 1 Itinerary - Arrival And Exploring Fira. Day 2 Itinerary - Discovering Oia And Nearby Attractions. Day 3 Itinerary - Beaches And Traditional Villages. Day 4 Itinerary - Sailing And Soaking In The Hot Springs. Departure And Travel Tips. Best Time To Visit Santorini.
3 Days in Santorini: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)
One Last Tip for a Perfect 3-Day Stay in Santorini. 3 days in Santorini: the best itinerary. Itinerary in Santorini: Day 1 - The iconic villages. A: Visit to Fira. B: Hiking from Fira to Oia. C: Walk to Oia. Day 2 - Boat trip around Santorini. Day 3 - The best things to do and see in Santorini. Option 1: Road trip in Santorini.
23 Things to Know Before Visiting Santorini, Greece
Plan your dream trip with our Santorini detailed travel guide, featuring the best attractions, hotels and travel tips. One of the world's great destinations, Santorini is famed the world over for its jaw-dropping scenery. Plan your dream trip with our Santorini detailed travel guide, featuring the best attractions, hotels and travel tips.
The Perfect 3 Day Santorini Itinerary
It includes the best things to do in Santorini, the two must-visit destinations of Oia and Fira, and a one-day road trip itinerary so you can visit the highlights of Santorini island. This itinerary also includes our tried and tested travel tips for Santorini. Santorini is one of the most popular - and most scenic - Greek islands to visit.
Santorini Travel Guide (by ZigZag Road Trips)
There are 3 main options to reach Santorini: By Ferry - from another island or from Athens - this is a fantastic way to arrive in Santorini with views of the giant cliffs! Book your ferries. By plane - There is an airport on the island with frequent flights from Athens and Europe.
17 TOP Things to Do in Santorini
The village of Oia, in Santorini. 3. Santorini volcano boat trip. Boat trips are among the best things to do in Santorini. The most famous tour is a 1-day cruise in the volcanic islands and Palea Kamini hot springs. During this day, you will explore the island of Nea Kameni and its still active volcano.
Santorini Travel Guide
Santorini Travel Tips. Best Months to Visit. The best time to visit Santorini is from September to October and April to May when the weather is warm and the crowds are scarce. Like all of the ...
10 Things to Know Before Visiting Santorini: Travel Guide for First Timers
If it's your first time in Santorini, you won't want to miss out on the 5 best things to do in Santorini: Take in the stunning sunset in Oia. Hike from Fira to Oia. Visit the beaches of Santorini: Red, white, and black sand beaches. Go wine tasting at the many wineries in Santorini. Take a sunset cruise in Santorini.
Santorini, Greece: a Complete Travel Guide
Here's how to plan the ultimate trip to Santorini, Greece, from the best places to stay and eat to memorable activities, transit tips, and more.
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Beautiful shades of blue and green of the Aegean Sea Church domes are one of the architectural features Santorini is famous for 5 Must Know Travel Tips for Santorini 1. Flying Vs. Ferry . If you are planning on visiting Santorini from Athens and want to make the most of your time on the Island, I highly recommend taking a flight out of Athens.
The 15 Best Hotels in Santorini of 2024
Stay at these award-winning and editor-approved properties in Santorini, Greece. Andronis Boutique Hotel, a T+L reader's pick in the 2023 World's Best Awards, located on the cliffs of Oia ...
solo traveller -2 days itinerary accommodation and best spot
Hello All, very excited about my approaching island hopping vacation starting on Santorini the 11th June .I am due to arrive at 19.30 pm so one day is completely lost and i will be departing very early on the 14th June. I have 2 full days and haven't booked an accommodation as i wanted to ask an advise where it is best to stay without a car, with stunning views max 120 euros per night, quiet ...
Rick Steves Reveals His Tips On Choosing The Best Luggage For An ...
In Tips for Choosing the Best Travel Bag, Rick Steves writes, "If your bag costs more than $250, you're probably paying more for a brand name than quality." Rick advises looking for sturdy ...
GOSSIP GIRL: Santorini on a Pinoy budget
Here are the tips to go to Santorini without breaking the bank: 1. Several budget airlines operate in Europe, offering competitive prices for flights to popular destinations like Santorini. ... If you are willing to fly on a 10 kilo- baggage, you can fly round trip from Budapest to Athens for as low as ten thousand pesos, and from Athens to San ...
6 Last-Minute Travel Tips for the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse
Others, like Travel Quest's Mexico's Copper Canyon Total Solar Eclipse tour, only have wait-list spots. But don't give up hope: As last-minute cancellations roll in, a quick call could secure you ...
Points influencers are everywhere. Some trips look too good to be true
More travel tips Vacation planning: Start with a strategy to maximize days off by taking PTO around holidays. Experts recommend taking multiple short trips for peak happiness .
What day should I book my flight? Expedia might have the answer
A new survey by Expedia shows what you probably already know: Americans find air travel stressful.. According to data released Wednesday, travel is a top stressor for 55% of respondents, with some ...

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

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1. What is Santorini?

2. Where is Santorini?

3. Where To Stay in Santorini ?

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

4. When Is The Best Time to Visit Santorini ?

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

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

5. How To Get To Santorini ?

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

7. Are There Any Direct Flights to Santorini ?

8. What Is The Caldera?

9. How Many Days Should You Spend in Santorini?

Is a Day Trip from Athens to Santorini possible?

10. Santorini or Mykonos ?

11. Best Greek Islands Near Santorini

12. Best Sunset Views in Santorini

13. How To Rent A Quad in Santorini ?

14. Money in Santorini. Do I Need Cash ?

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

16. How To Rent A Car in Santorini ?

17. What Are The Best Boat Tours in Santorini ?

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

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

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

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Table of Contents

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Santorini

1. Spend the day in Oia

2. Visit Akrotiri

3. Explore Red Beach

4. Tour a winery

5. See the Santorini Volcano

2. Go scuba diving

3. See the Museum of Prehistoric Thira

4. Hike from Fira to Oia

5. Visit the Akrotiri Lighthouse

6. Hike up to Ancient Thera

7. Explore Pyrgos

8. Take a sailing trip

9. Try a cooking class

10. Hike to the highest point on Santorini

11. Take an e-bike tour

Santorini Travel Costs

Backpacking Santorini Suggested Budgets

Santorini Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Where to Stay in Santorini

How to Get Around Santorini

When to Go to Santorini

How to Stay Safe on Santorini

Santorini Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

Santorini Travel Guide: Related Articles

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