how to visit santorini volcano

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Santorini Volcano

Location: Nea Kameni

Santorini is gifted with a unique kind of natural beauty and wild scenery. That constitutes the result of several volcanic eruptions throughout the years. Although the massive volcano of Santorini has been dormant since its last eruption in the 1950s, it is still considered active . Its islet and the crescent-shaped caldera are two of the most famous places of interest in the Aegean Sea.

BOOK YOUR TOUR TO THE VOLCANO Discover the volcano of Santorini with our best-selling tour! Book the tour with us!

The craters of the volcano are located on two small islands made entirely of black lava. Those are known as Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni . In terms of geography, the small islet complex was the last set of islands to emerge from the sea in the area of the Eastern Mediterranean.

Note: The volcano can only be reached with a boat trip .

In the distant past, a catastrophic eruption during the Bronze Age caused earthquakes and tsunamis that wiped out a large part of the Minoan civilization . Despite the disastrous consequences of its past eruptions, the volcano turned into an infamous travel destination in Greece, with great geological significance that attracts travelers from all around the world.

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Top Tours and activities

Boat tour to volcano, hot springs & thirassia island.

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

Luxury Catamaran tour around the Caldera

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

Boat tour to Volcano & Hot Springs

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

More info about the volcano

The powers of the volcano of Santorini, however, are not only destructive but also creative. All the eruptions that occurred over a time span of thousands of years altered the local morphology by creating Palea and Nea Kameni. At the same time, they led to the gradual formation of purely volcanic coves and beaches covered with fragments of lava, dark pebbles, and a rare, pitch-black type of sand.

That comprises just one of Santorini’s distinctive features that make it so special. Check out the most popular  black sand beaches of Santorini: Perivolos, Kamari, Perissa, and more.

The volcano has also contributed to the local economy for thousands of years. In addition, the fact that it is connected to the island’s good reputation in  wine production can not be overlooked. Due to its unique composition, the island’s volcanic solid is rich in nutrients and minerals that help the famous vineyards flourish and produce wine of exceptional taste and quality .

For an even closer look, participate in one of the daily cruises for a chance to walk on solid black lava above the steaming main crater of the volcano and other openings bursting with sulfur steam. The  crater is located in Nea Kameni and you can easily reach it with a 20-minute walk through the lunar scenery. The area also offers incredible views of the beautiful villages of Fira and Oia hanging above the cliffs of Santorini.

The best way to experience the magnitude of Santorini’s neighboring sleeping giant is to hike along the edge of the vast  craters . With a ground rich in iron, lava, and sulfur fumes, the unique combination of earthly colors and smells brings the visitor as close as one can get to seeing an otherworldly moonscape in person -an unforgettable experience, indeed!

Related topics

Mythical Atlantis | Biblical connection to the eruption | Geology

How to get there

The volcano is located between Santorini and Thirassia islands.

Tours: Discover the volcano and the hot springs with an organized tour , at the best price! Some tours to the volcano depart from the port of Athinios and from Gialos , the old port of Fira. Athinios port is connected to Fira and other villages of Santorini, by bus or by an online pre-booked transfer service (with a taxi, minibus, or private VIP car). Gialos, the old port of Fira, can be reached by a cable car or on foot from Fira (walking the 588 steps of the old Karavolades Stairs ).

Private Boat: You can reach the volcano with a private yacht or a rented one.

Photos by Greeka Members

Photos by greeka team.

• jennifercm 16 Jul 2011 Great place to swim A little cold, but so salty. You are so buoyant all you have to do is let your legs hang down and put your arms out to float. Amazing. Touring the volcano is brutally sunny but worth the hike.

The day we reached Santorini, we determined that we have to take the Caldera cruise to visit the famous Nea Kameni volcano from close! Our cruise took us from Fira straight there. My boyfriend and I are avid outdoor enthusiasts and hence, we were determined enough to hike up to the crater. If you haven't enjoyed outdoor activity, I have to warn you because the hike is strenuous. There are no steeps, but the hot sun will surely consume a lot of your energy. It is better to limit your luggage and we carried only water with us. Once we reached the crater, we realized that we made a worthwhile trip. The view of island from the top was incredible. You can get a nice 360 degree view of the low lying islands, something no one wants to miss. We took a lot of snaps of the island. We didn't take hot springs tour mainly because we didn't want to get wet. However, we saw many people enjoying the springs despite the horrible smell.

DISCOVER MORE SIGHTSEEINGS IN SANTORINI

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This Greek Island Is One of the Most-visited in the World — With Instagram-worthy Views, Romantic Villages, and Relaxed Tavernas

Here’s your ultimate guide to Santorini, the Cycladic showstopper that sets hearts aflutter.

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Lovers and honeymooners gravitate to Santorini to meander amid cliffside cave houses that hover almost imperceptibly above a lustrous, inky Aegean Sea.

A catastrophic volcanic eruption some 3,600 years ago, which saw half the island swallowed by the sea, is responsible for the dizzying visuals. Famed for its sunsets, photogenic blue-domed whitewashed churches, and intensely mineral white wine, Greek tourism’s poster child has long epitomized romance. It’s no wonder Travel + Leisure readers have repeatedly voted the Cycladic superstar among their favorite islands in the world as recently as 2023. It’s that kind of mind-blowing destination you must experience once in a lifetime.

And while Santorini seems more geared toward couples, you don’t have to be partnered up to enjoy a visit. Most travelers stay in accommodations in one of the caldera-facing villages in northwest Santorini, namely Oia, Fira, or Imerovigli. It’s no coincidence that eight Santorini hotels made it into the top 10 Greece-wide among 2023 T+L reader picks .

Christos Stergiou , a T+L A-List Advisor and the CEO and founder of True Trips, said accommodations on Santorini’s “off-caldera” side are worth considering if you’re looking to dodge the crowds. Cruise ship passengers, in particular, make up many visitors who visit in the peak summer months.

“There’s an advantage to staying on the caldera because you have the views. You exit your hotel, and you’re in the heart of everything,” he said. “In recent years, we’ve seen quite a few hotels opening up inland on Santorini, offering more of a private refuge.”

Stergiou makes a similar recommendation in terms of sightseeing. “Hire a car and follow a road to see where it takes you,” he told T+L. “Or book a private walking tour to explore villages beyond Oia.”

Meanwhile, the island’s food scene has also improved in recent years. High-quality restaurants helmed by prominent chefs have opened within the island’s best hotels, showcasing superior local produce ranging from white eggplant to yellow split pea (fava). Fish tavernas on the waterfront and inconspicuous dining spots in the interior enhance culinary offerings.

Add black sand beaches and historical and cultural attractions, including an enigmatic ancient settlement and wine tasting at small-scale estates.

Dreaming of a Santorini getaway? Here’s how to plan your perfect vacation on the island. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Capture a dreamy Santorini sunset or, better yet, a people-free dawn.
• Walk around picture-perfect Oia village.
• Sail the caldera on a catamaran to witness the island’s beauty from the sea.
• Explore the ancient site of Akrotiri.
• Sample Santorini’s world-famous wines.

Best Hotels and Resorts

Courtesy of Katikies Santorini

Katikies Santorini

A T+L mainstay, readers voted this elegant hotel as their favorite resort in Greece for 2023 , Katikies Santorini is, after all, one of the island’s luxury hospitality pioneers. Situated in Oia, the 34-room hotel’s guests can avail themselves of experiences such as a private cruise in a sleek 52-foot Riva Rivale motor yacht to unassuming Thirassia islet.

Andronis Boutique Hotel

A consistent T+L World’s Best winner , this caldera-facing Oia resort echoes traditional cave houses, once home to seafarers. Of Andronis Boutique Hotel ’s 25 accommodation options, the largest and most lavish is the Prestige Suite. Emmanuel Renaut, chef and founder of three Michelin-starred Flocons de Sel, curates the menu at in-house restaurant Lauda. 

Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection

Oozing elegance, this pristine white boutique hotel looks out over enigmatic Skaros Rock and the caldera. T+L readers proclaimed Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection to be Europe’s best hotel in 2021 . Located in Imerovigli, the resort features a sizable infinity pool and, for the deepest pockets, a sprawling villa. 

Best Things to Do

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

Hike between inland villages

A classic trek runs across the rim of the caldera, from Fira to Oia, with pit stops in the villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli and at Skaros, the first castelli (fortress) built on the island. Alternatively, hike ancient trails through the authentic settlements of Pyrgos, Exo Gonia and Mesa Gonia. Santorini Walking Tours offers small group and private guided options. 

Take a boat tour of the caldera

No Santorini visit is complete without witnessing the caldera from the sea. Step aboard a catamaran for a private or small group day or sunset cruise . You’ll have the opportunity to swim and snorkel, take a dip in hot (lukewarm, actually) springs off the volcanic islets of Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni and view a 19th-century lighthouse. 

Explore ancient Akrotiri

Akrotiri is one of Europe’s most significant ancient settlements. Santorini’s fiery eruption preserved it in Pompeii fashion but, strangely enough, no human remains have been found. Take a tour with a state-licensed guide to learn what life was like in this advanced Mediterranean Bronze Age city. Key excavation finds are on display at the Museum of Prehistoric Thira in Fira. 

Sample Santorini’s great whites

Assyrtiko, Santorini’s best-known wine, might make up about 90 per cent of production, however, the island lays claim to around 50 indigenous grapes. Book a tour with oenologist Iliana Sidiropoulou who leads private tours where you’ll learn about the singular terroir, view an archaic pruning method and sample wines at family-owned estates. 

Jorg Greuel/Getty Images

Swim at a black sand beach

Santorini features some pretty cool beaches. Among them is Perivolos, known for its black sand and invigorating, deep blue waters. Located in the southeast, here you’ll find water sports like jet skiing, along with buzzy beach bars and casual restaurants. As the sun goes down, turn up the romance with a shoreline wander to admire the rocky peaks of Mesa Vouno rising up to the north. 

Best Restaurants

Carol Yepes/Getty Images

Selene, Katikies Garden Hotel

Founded by self-taught chef Giorgos Hatzigiannakis, Selene is the stuff of Santorinian culinary legend. With reverence and ingenuity, Botrini today helms the restaurant that brought reimagined island fare to the fore. Splurge on a tasting menu, featuring dishes like cured bonito with rock samphire, local cucumber katsouni and pistachio paired with wines selected by Master of Wine Yiannis Karakasis. 

Varoulko Santorini, Grace Hotel

Chef Lefteris Lazarou, whose Piraeus restaurant carries a Michelin star, quietly demonstrates his expertise with fish at his Santorini outpost. Linger over a laidback a la carte lunch at Varoulko Santorini or book for dinner, where degustation menus feature refined monkfish soup and crispy sea bream with smoked eggplant mousse, among other highlights.

In Vourvoulos, away from the celebrated caldera, you’ll find Roza’s . Seasonality reigns supreme at this downhome dining spot owned and run by a Georgian cook and her Greek husband. Rice-stuffed vine leaves with smoked eel and lime foam count among the delectable offerings, while there are plenty of vegan options. 

Best Time to Visit

Daniel Gorostieta/Travel + Leisure

“Late September through early October is the best time to visit Santorini. Crowds are thinner, prices are better, the weather is generally fantastic and the sea is warm,” Stergiou said. The shoulder season from late April through May is also a good time to schedule a trip though keep in mind the Aegean is still too cold for swimming, at least for most people. June offers long, languid summer days, making it a popular month. July and August are the busiest and hottest months of the year. And while rainy days are rare in spring or fall, it can be chilly. Stergiou said winter wasn’t an ideal time to visit as it’s mostly cold and damp and that’s also when construction and renovations occur. 

How to Get There

The quickest way to reach Santorini is by plane. Flights from Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) to Santorini operate daily and take about 50 minutes. For those who prefer to island hop, take a ferry from Piraeus. A fast catamaran takes around four hours and 40 minutes to reach the island, while conventional ferries require between six hours and seven hours and 45 minutes. Santorini features on many cruise line itineraries including those of Virgin Voyages, Silverstar, Seabourn and SeaDream Yacht Club, though peak season means significant crowds. Viking Cruises and Windstar Cruises operate Mediterranean itineraries that encompass Santorini in winter. 

Areas to Visit

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 churches. Stop in at literary treasure trove Atlantic Books and lose yourself in Oia ’s backstreets to peruse stately neoclassical mansions once home to sea captains. “Everyone knows Santorini for its sunsets but dawn is equally spectacular,” said Stergiou, who suggested rising early, while Oia is still people-free. 

Few visitors venture to the low-key inland medieval village of Pyrgos, situated in the southwest, which Stergiou described as “underrated”. By day, visit the chapel atop Profitis Ilias, the island’s highest point, from where you can take in views across the island. Stergiou said he particularly enjoyed walking amid the town’s whitewashed houses in the evening to soak up the atmosphere.

Megalochori

Megalochori , another of Stergiou’s favorites, is brimming with living folklore and tradition. Located in the island’s southwest, the village is characterized by labyrinthine alleyways and ornate bell towers. Immerse yourself in music, art and mythology at family-friendly cultural center Symposion , where youngsters can learn to craft a panpipe. Fun is also guaranteed if you take a cooking class at Petra Kouzina . “There are a few tavernas and they’re all good,” Stergiou added.

How to Get Around

By Rental Car: Book a rental car well in advance, particularly if visiting during summer. “As long as you feel comfortable driving, I always recommend car rental, so that you’re independent,” said Stergiou. “Venture off without choosing a specific destination. Go check out wine country, for example.” Google Maps is mostly reliable. 

By Taxi: Silver taxis operate on the island but numbers are limited. Wait times can be long and traffic can spike fares. Cab ranks operate at the airport, Athinios port and near Fira’s central square. They may cost more if booked in advance or via a hotel. Taxis are metered and prices vary. It costs around €17 to €22 to reach Fira from the airport and about €30 to €40 to reach locations further afield. 

By bus: Santorini has a fleet of 23 buses known as KTEL that connects all island villages. Fira is the main hub for all bus routes. One-way tickets start from €2 (daytime fare) and €3.10 (night-time fare), respectively.

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A Romantic Volcano Tour In Santorini With Santorini Best Tours

Exploring nea kamani on a volcano tour in santorini.

The beautiful island of Santorini is a top item on many bucket lists; seeing the gorgeous blue domed churches, the amazing views and the village of Oia. Though, one of the best things to do is taking a volcano tour in Santorini. This is what I did with Santorini Best Tours and it allowed me to see a whole other side of this romantic island.

With stops including the nearby Nea Kameni to see the volcanic crater, springs heated by volcanic activity, Thirasia Island for dinner and watching the sunset by Oia, taking a volcano tour in Santorini is something you must do on our visit.

Booking With Santorini Best Tours

There are plenty of different options when booking a volcano tour in Santorini, though I teamed up with Santorini Best Tours on their ‘Aphrodite Volcano Tour’. Veroniki from Santorini Best Tours was absolutely wonderful through out the time leading up to the tour and would quickly reply to any questions I had.

They made sure the sailboat company picked us up and dropped us off on time. Overall making our experience on we could not forget. It was a wonderful, romantic experience and the easy booking process made it that much better as well.

The Volcano Tour In Santorini

Arriving to the sailboat volcano tour of santorini.

Waiting on the road a large bus pulls over and our names are read out. We jump on board and find a variety of travelers partaking in today’s volcano tour in Santorini. All different ages and from a variety of countries. There are a couple of groups on girls holidays and plenty of couples looking for a romantic evening.

Heading towards the Athinios Port we zig-zag down the crazy roads on the cliff sides. This would not be the best for anyone with motion sickness or a fear of heights. When we finally reach the bottom we watch a massive pirate ship style sailboat dock up.

With warm timber accents and deep purple coverings we jump aboard, finding a comfortable spot with plenty of shade. The majority head up to the open second story enjoying the warm winds, though being sunburned we decide not to take that risk.

The caption and crew introduce themselves over the loud speaker while we make our way to the other port to pick up more passengers. Following the outline of the step cliffs in Santorini we arrive in Fira Port where some more people jump on board before we can finally head out.

Flying through the waters the sail boat makes its way closer and closer to Nea Kameni, our first stop on the volcano sailboat tour.

Hiking On Nea Kameni

Arriving on Nea Kameni is much unlike the island of Santorini. The barren landscapes consisting of various colored rock formations and minimal plant life.

The island was formed over the years thanks to repeated eruptions building up lava and ash. It has a diameter of about 2 kilometers, with the volcanic crater reaches 130 meters high. Nea Kameni is monitored closely by scientists measuring the volcano activity within the crater and the many active sulfur vents.

Jumping off the boat we pay the 2.50 euro entrance fee and begin hiking up towards the crater. There are small shack like spots along the way which provide shade from the intense Santorini sunshine.

The walk itself is not overly difficult, but the loose gravel mixed with high mid day temperatures do not make the ideal environment. I would definitely recommend bringing water for the hike. We stop plenty of times along the way for a breather, though the walk itself to the crater does not take long at all.

Reaching the top provides incredible views over the Aegean Sea to nearby Santorini. It is certainly a desolate landscape which tells a story of many volcanic eruptions. Rocks of all sizes form the paths around the carter and luckily the smell was not as bad as White Island in New Zealand .

In all honesty apart from the views, there is not too much to do at the top of the crater so we head back down. Once back on the boat we grab a much needed cold drink from the on board bar, while waiting for the rest of the group to return.

Hot Spring Stop On The Volcano Tour In Santorini

Sipping on a mocktail we sway with the currents of the ocean as the sail boat makes its way to the hot springs. I had previously heard mixed opinions about the hot springs portion of the tour; with most people thinking the whole swimming area is heated. Rather, you will need to swim about 100 meters to a particular area of the water which is heated by a vent.

The crew on board provide noodles and floats for those who are not the most confident of swimmers. Though, most people are having plenty of fun jumping off the boat to the waters below.

Dinner Underneath Thirasia Island

With the sun beginning to lower into the horizon and everyone getting a bit chilly in the waters we make our way to the nearby Thirasia Island. This island is relatively close to Santorini, but has a much more relaxed and local atmosphere to it.

Honestly, I have never seen water just like that in Santorini. It is something you will often hear about, but never truly believe until you arrive. With the deepest shade of blue, you can be right by the shoreline and it will still be that incredible color.

The crew on board set up two tables at each end of the ship with dinner on. A delicious selection of Greek salads, local rice, pork, chicken and fresh bread is on offer. Everyone fills up their stomachs after burning a lot of energy swimming around previously. Also, with free wine being served alongside dinner it certainly gets those fun holiday vibes going.

Watching Oia During Golden Hour

Santorini Sunset From The Sailboat

With the sun turning a gorgeous shade of pink the sky puts on the ultimate sunset show for us. A perfect circle lowering into the horizon silhouetting the numerous catamarans in the foreground. It is truly a spectacular moment and one of the most romantic things to do in Santorini.

With more and more wine being consumed the crew get everyone up dancing to Greek music. It is the perfect way to spend a busy afternoon exploring some of the best landscapes in Santorini .

We sit back and relax, listening to good music play over the speakers while the boat heads back towards the ports.

Heading Back To Port In Santorini

Arriving back at Fira Port the sun has certainly set and now the moon has made it way out. It is a magical sight seeing the beautiful village of Fira being lit up underneath the shinning stars and moon. I just wish I had a steady hand so my night photography would be more sharp!

Continuing on along the cliff side we arrive back at our port and jump onto the respective buses. Zig-zagging back up to the main road of Santorini this island is as beautiful by night as it is by day.

No doubt taking a volcano tour in Santorini is one of the must do activities while on the island. It gives you completely different views than you usually would see, it is the most relaxing romantic evening and you even get to hike up to a volcanic crater!

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Backpackers Wanderlust was a guest with  Santorini Best Tours  on their Aphrodite Volcano Tour, however, as always, all opinions are my own.

Tasha Amy is a true backpacker at heart and has been discovering the world on a budget since 2015. Based in Gisborne, New Zealand she will spend many months each year traveling overseas as a solo female traveler before coming home and sharing her adventures online with you.

1 thoughts on “ A Romantic Volcano Tour In Santorini With Santorini Best Tours ”

Wow santorini looks incredible!

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In the broader region of Eastern Mediterranean and the Aegean Sea, the most prominent geodynamic event currently taking place is the subduction of the African Lithospheric Plate beneath the Eurasian Lithospheric Plate. According to extensive scientific studies, this plate convergence is occurring at a rate of approximately 35mm each year, while Africa bends below Europe in a northward direction. As a result, the rocks of the two plates experience extreme temperatures and pressures at great depths below the surface, hence leading to their extensive melting and the production of magma. Some volumes of this magma remain deep within the lithosphere, while others ascend to the surface and erupt, giving birth to volcanoes.

The manifestation of active volcanism in the South Aegean takes place approximately 250km north of the plate convergent boundary.  The result is the worldwide known South Aegean Volcanic Arc, a chain of volcanoes that is approximately 600km long with a width of 20-40km and extends from the Saronic Gulf in the west to the islands of Kos and Nisyros in the east. It consists of the volcanic centers of Sousaki-Methana, Milos-Antimilos, Christiana-Santorini and the Kos-Yali-Nisyros volcanic field, as well as a number of offshore volcanic structures (like Kolumbo volcano, 7 Km NE of Santorini) that were detected after extensive and systematic reconnaissance of the Aegean Sea floor . The volcanic arc has been active for the past 4.7 million years. However, today only the volcanoes of Methana, Santorini, Kolumbo and Nisyros remain active but are in a dormant state according to scientists.

The ‘Minoan’ eruption was the last destructive eruption of Santorini. In a matter of hours to days, the volcano discharged several tens of km 3 of gas-charged magma which entered the sea as pyroclastic flows and rock debris. Large quantities of pyroclastic products (tephra and aerosols) ejected many kilometers to the atmosphere and blanketed the prehistoric town of Akrotiri and in a matter of hours the whole east Mediterranean region. The following tsunami traveled as far as the northern coast of Crete having at least 9 m height and together with the atmospheric effects may have contributed to the decline of the great Minoan civilization, the dominant civilization in the Mediterranean at the time. According to scientific studies, the eruption ranks as one of the largest of the last 10,000 years and was responsible for the present-day morphology of the island.

Modern volcanological and archaeological research, through detailed studies of the deposits of pumice, ash and marine sediments on the Aegean islands and across the Eastern Mediterranean and studies on the remains of the Minoan culture, shed light on the chronicle of the Minoan eruption. There is a consensus that the eruption occurred in four phases with an initial precursory phase. Every phase was characterized by destructive events and violent phreatomagmatic explosions which culminated in the formation of the 11x7km present-day caldera.

Panorama of the volcano

View of Palea and Nea Kameni and Aspronisi and Therasia in the background

Inside Georgios crater

The view from inside Georgios larger crater

Sulphur crystals in fumarole

Astonishing sulphur crystals around a fumarole of Georgios crater

Georgios smaller crater

The smaller crater of Georgios near the summit of the volcano

Lava oxidation

Color succession due to oxidation of lava

Surface lavas

The rough surface of lava is one of the characteristic of volcanoes

Georgios two craters

View of the Georgios main and smaller crater and Niki lava in the background

Lava remarkable forms

Lava forms due to magma cooling

The volcanic surface of Nea Kameni

The surface of the volcano resembles an unfamiliar moonscape

The historical eruptions of Palea and Nea Kameni shaped the morphology of the present-day volcano inside the unique flooded caldera of Santorini.

Today, the volcano is continuously monitored by a network of instruments that measure seismicity, ground movements, temperature and the chemistry of hot springs.

Palea and Nea Kameni islands are a wondrous natural laboratory and are included in the Natura 2000 European network of protected areas.

Georgios crater in Nea Kameni

Georgios main crater and smaller crater

Daphne crater

Wonderful Daphne crater and Thera island in the background

The colors of lava

Oxidation on the rocks of Nea Kameni creates colorful patterns

Volcanic sulfhur crystals

Sulphur crystals on the fumaroles of Georgios crater in Nea Kameni

Fumaroles in Nea Kameni

Georgios crater active fumaroles emit hot gases

Emerging lava

A lava block stands out on the surface of the volcano

Volcanic rocks in Nea Kameni

Lava blocks and fragments scattered on the surface of the volcano

Multicolor lava due to natural oxidation on the volcano

Fractures in lava forms in Nea Kameni volcano

• Fira old harbor
• Athinios Ferry port

• Stay on established walkways for your safety and to protect the physical environment and fragile formations. Unstable ground in places.
• Follow the information on the signs. Never enter into the craters. Danger of rockfalls and volcanic gases.
• Never remove or detach the rocks. 
• Appropriate clothing, sport shoes, sun protection, hat and water are highly recommended.
• Any rubbish should be discarded directly in the designated bins. 
• Keep away from the instruments of the monitoring network set up on the island.
• Supervise children at all times.
• Observe safe distances and settings for selfies.
• In case of an organized tour, please follow the instructions of your guides.

About this Research Program

A digital guide mobile application that improves the services of the National Geological Park of Nea Kameni Volcano

The scientific project concerning the production of a mobile application for smart devices in order to showcase the geological volcanic path of Nea Kameni and the points of interest. The content involves photographic and video material, historical records of volcanic eruptions, thematic Digital Elevation Models (DEM), volcanological map of Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni with the points of interest (POI), digital maps of the lava flows and the elevation phases of Kameni islands from 197 BC to 1950 AD based on scientific data and an enlightening, descriptive text.

Moreover, the application is promoted through a corresponding website and a modern tourist leaflet for the volcano.

The application has been developed under the guidance of the Laboratory of Physical Geography of National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA).

Paraskevi Nomikou, Associate Professor (Laboratory of Physical Geography, NKUA), Scientific Coordinator – Geoscientist of Santorini

Varvara Antoniou Educational Research Staff | Faculty of Geology and Geoenvronment | National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Dr Geosciences | Natural Disasters – Geographic Information Systems

Stavroula Kazana, PhDc. Geologist – Engineering Geologist

Pavlos Krassakis, PhDc. Geologist – GIS specialist

Kyriaki Drymoni, Dr. Geologist

Joseph Perros, PhDc. Historian

Special thanks to Prof. Tim Druitt, (Univ. of Clermont) for his help on the scientific text

With the contribution of:

George Pehlivanides hands-on.studio Research & Art Direction, Branding, UX/UI Design, Project Management

EContent Systems Web-Mobile-Digital Marketing Services econtentsys.gr Project Management: Aristides Batis Mobile Development: Agiomavritis Marios Web Development: Elmousian George

Paraskevi Nomikou

Artemia Argirou

Artemis Tomai

Alexandros Arapantonis

Joseph Perros

Stavroula Kazana

ETH Zurich https://ba.e-pics.ethz.ch/main/galleryview/qsr=Santorin%201925 (Copyright notice: ETH-Bibliothek Zurich, Bildarchiv/Fotograf:Wehli, Leo/Dia_247-11130/CC BY-SA 4.0)

Bruins, H. J., MacGillivray, J.A., Synolakis, C.E., Benjamini, C., Keller, J., Kisch, H. J., Kleugel, A., van der Plicht, J & Klugel, A. (2008). Geoarchaeological tsunami deposits at Palaikastro (Crete) and the Late Minoan IA eruption of Santorini., J. Arch. Sci. 35, 191–212. Cadoux, A., Scaillet, B., Bekki , S.,Oppenheimer , C. & Druitt, T.H. (2015). Stratospheric Ozone destruction by the Bronze-Age Minoan eruption (Santorini Volcano,Greece), Scientific Reports, 5. Druitt, T.H., Mellors, R.A., Pyle, D.M., and Sparks, R.S.J., (1989). Explosive volcanism on Santorini, Greece: Geological Magazine, v. 126, p. 95–126. Druitt, T. H, Edwards L., Mellors R.M., Pyle D.M, Sparks R.S.J., Lanphere M., Davies M., & Barreirio, B. (1999). Santorini volcano, Geological Society Memoir. J. Geol. Soc.Lond. 19, 165. Druitt, T. H. (2014). New insights into the initiation and venting of the Bronze-Age eruption of Santorini (Greece), from component analysis, Bull. Volcanol. 76, 794. Druitt, T.H., Francalanci, L. & Fabbro, G. (2015). Field guide to Santorini Volcano, MeMoVolc short course, Santorini. Druitt, T.H., McCoy, F.W., Vougioukalakis, G.E. (2019). The Late Bronze Age Eruption of Santorini Volcano and Its Impact on the Ancient Mediterranean World, Elements, 15 (3): 185–190. Evans, K.J., McCoy, F. (2020). Precursory eruptive activity and implied cultural responses to the Late Bronze Age (LBA) eruption of Thera (Santorini, Greece). J. Volcanol. Geotherm. Res. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jvolgeores.2020.106868. Fouqué, F. (1999). Santorini and its eruptions, Translated and annotated by McBirney A.R., The Johns Hopkins Press, Baltimore. Fouqué, F., (1879). Santorin et ses éruptions: Paris, Masson et Compagnie, 440 p. (in French). Friedrich, W., Kromer, B., Friedrich, M., Heinemeier, J., Pfeiffer, T., Talamo, S. (2006). Santorini eruption radiocarbon dated to 1627–1600 Bc., Science 312, 548. Fytikas, M., Kolios, N., and Vougioukalakis, G., (1990) PostMinoan activity of the Santorini volcano: Volcanic hazard and risk, forecasting possibilities, in Hardy, D.A., Keller, J., Galanopoulos, V.P., Flemming, N.C., and Druitt, T.H., eds., Thera and the Aegean world III, v. 2: London, The Thera Foundation, p. 183–198. Georgalas, G.C., (1953). L’éruption du volcan de Santorin en 1950: Bulletin Volcanologique, ser. II, v. 13, p. 39–55. Georgalas, G.C., (1962). Catalogue of the active volcanoes and solfatara fi elds of Greece: Rome, International Association of Volcanology, v. 12, p. 14–29. Georgalas, G., and Liatsikas, N., (1925a). Sur la nouvelle éruption du volcan de Santorin (août 1925): Comptes Rendus Hebdomadaires des Seances de l’Academie des Sciences, v. 181, p. 425–427. Georgalas, G., and Liatsikas, N., (1925b). Sur la nouvelle éruption du volcan de Santorin (1925): Comptes Rendus Hebdomadaires des Seances de l’Academie des Sciences, v. 181, p. 1147–1149. Georgalas, G., and Liatsikas, N., (1936a). Die historische Entwickelung des Dafni-Ausbruches 1925–1926, in Reck, H., ed., Santorin: v. 2: Berlin, Dietrich Reimer, p. 1–96 (in German). Georgalas, G., and Liatsikas, N., (1936b). Der Nautilus Ausbruch, in Reck, H., ed., Santorin: v. 2: Berlin, Dietrich Reimer, p. 328–340 (in German). Georgalas, G.C., and Papastamatiou, J., (1951). Uber den Ausbruch des Santorinvulkanes von 1939–1941. Der Kténas Ausbruch: Bulletin Volcanologique, v. 11, p. 1–37. Georgalas, G.C., and Papastamatiou, J., (1953). L’éruption du volcan de Santorin en 1939–1941. L’éruption du dome Fouqué: Bulletin Volcanologique, v. 13, p. 1–38. Goree, F., (1710). A relation of a new island, which was raised up from the bottom of the sea on the 23d of May 1707, in the Bay of Santorin, in the Archipelago: Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London, v. 27, p. 354–375. Heiken, G., McCoy, F. (1990). Precursory activity to the Minoan eruption, Thera, Greece, In: Hardy DA (ed.) Thera and the AegeanWorld III, vol 2. Thera Foundation, London, pp 13–18. Hooft, E.E.E., Heath, B.A., Toomey, D.R., Paulatto, M., Papazachos, C.B., Nomikou, P., Morgan, J.V., Warner, M.R. (2019). Seismic imaging of Santorini: Subsurface constraints on caldera collapse and present-day magma recharge, Earth and Planetary Science Letters, 514, 48-61, ISSN 0012-821X, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.epsl.2019.02.033. Johnston, E. N., Sparks, R.S.J., Phillips, J.C. & Carey, S. (2014). Revised estimates for the volume of the Late Bronze Age Minoan eruption, Santorini. Greece, J. Geol. Soc. Lond. 171, 583–590. Karátson, D., Telbisz, T., Gertisser, R., Strasser, T., Nomikou, P., Druitt, T., Vereb, V., Quidelleur, X., Kósik, S. (2020). Constraining the landscape of Late Bronze Age Santorini prior to the Minoan eruption: Insights from volcanological, geomorphological and archaeological findings, Journal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research, 106911, 104, ISSN 0377-0273, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jvolgeores.2020.106911. Karátson, D., Gertisser, R.,Telbisz, T., Vereb, V., Quidelleur, X.,Druitt, T.H., Nomikou, P. & Kósik, S. (2018). Towards reconstruction of the lost Late Bronze Age intra-caldera island of Santorini, Greece, Scientific Reports volume 8. Karátson, D., Telbisz, T., Gertisser, R., Strasser, T., Nomikou, P., Druitt, T., Vereb, V., Quidelleur, X., Kósik, S. (2020). Constraining the landscape of Late Bronze Age Santorini prior to the Minoan eruption: Insights from volcanological, geomorphological and archaeological findings, Journal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research, Volume 401, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jvolgeores.2020.106911. Kténas, C.A., (1925a). L’éruption du volcan de Santorin: Comptes Rendus Hebdomadaires des Seances de l’Academie des Sciences, v. 181, p. 376–377. Kténas, C.A., (1925b). L’éruption du volcan de Santorin. Caractères morphologiques: Comptes Rendus Hebdomadaires des Seances de l’Academie des Sciences, v. 181, p. 518–520. Kténas, C.A., (1925c). Les phénomènes explosifs de l’éruption du volcan de Santorin: Comptes Rendus Hebdomadaires des Seances de l’Academie des Sciences, v. 181, p. 563–565. Kténas, C.A., (1926). L’éruption du volcan des Kaménis (Santorin) en 1925. Part I: Bulletin Volcanologique, v. 7–8, p. 3–64. Kténas, C.A., (1927). L’éruption du volcan des Kaménis (Santorin) en 1925. Part II: Bulletin Volcanologique, v. 11–12, p. 7–49. Kténas, C.A., and Kokkoros, P., (1929). Le dôme parasitaire de 1928 et l’évolution du volcan des Kaménis (Santorin): Bulletin Volcanologique, v. 19–22, p. 87–97. Manning, S.W., Ramsey, C.B., Kutschera, W., Higham, T., Kromer, B., Steier, P., Wild, E.M. (2006). Chronology for the Aegean Late Bronze Age 1700–1400 B.C., Science 312, 565–569. McCoy, F. & Heiken, G. (2000). Tsunami generated by the Late Bronze Age eruption of Thera (Santorini), Greece, Pure Appl. Geophys., 157, 1227–1256. McVey, B.G., Hooft, E.E.E., Heath, B.A., Toomey, D.R., Paulatto, M., Morgan, J.V., Nomikou, P. Papazachos, C.B. (2020). Magma accumulation beneath Santorini volcano, Greece, from P-wave tomography, Geology, 48 (3): 231–235, doi: https://doi.org/10.1130/G47127.1 Nomikou, P., Papanikolaou, D., Alexandri, M., Sakellariou, D., Rousakis, G. (2013). Submarine volcanoes along the Aegean volcanic arc, Tectonophysics 597-598: 123-146 Nomikou, P., Parks, M.M., Papanikolaou, D., Pyle, D.M., Mather, T.A., Carey, S., Watts, A.B., Paulatto, M., Kalnins, M.L., Livanos, I., Bejelou, K., Simou, E., Perros, I. (2014). The emergence and growth of a submarine volcano: the Kameni islands, Santorini (Greece), Geo. Res. J. 1–2, 8–18. Nomikou, P., Druitt, T. H., Hübscher, C., Mather, T.A, Paulatto, M., Kalnins, L.M., Kelfoun, K., Papanikolaou, D., Bejelou, K., Lampridou, D., Pyle, D.M., Carey, S., Watts A.B, Weiß, B. & Parks, M.M. (2016). Post-eruptive flooding of Santorini caldera and implications for tsunami generation. Nat Commun 7, 13332 Nomikou, P., Hübscher, H., Carey, S. (2019). The Christiana–Santorini–Kolumbo Volcanic Field. Elements; 15 (3): 171–176 Novikova, T., Papadopoulos, G. & Mccoy Fw. (2011). Modelling of tsunami generated by the giant Late Bronze Age eruption of Thera, South Aegean Sea, Greece. Geophysical Journal International – GEOPHYS J INT. 186. 665-680. 10.1111/j.1365-246X.2011.05062.x. Parks, M.M., Biggs, J., England, P., Mather, T.A., Nomikou, P., Palamartchouk, K., Papanikolaou, X., Paradissis, D., Parsons, B., Pyle, D.M., Raptakis, C., Zacharis, V. (2012). Evolution of Santorini Volcano dominated by episodic and rapid fluxes of melt from depth, Nat.Geosci., 5(10), 749–54. Pyle D.M. & Elliott J.R. (2006). Quantitative morphology, recent evolution, and future activity of the Kameni Islands volcano, Santorini, Greece, Geosphere, 2, 5, 253–268, doi: 10.1130/GES00028.1 Pyle, D. (1997). The global impact of the Minoan eruption of Santorini, Greece, Environ. Geol., 30, 59–61. Reck, H., ed., (1936a). Santorin. Das Werdegang eines Inselvulkans und sein Ausbruch, 1925–1928. Ergebnisse einer Deutsch-Grieschischen Arbeitgemeinschaft: Berlin, Dietrich Reimer, 3 vol. (in German). Reck, H., (1936b). Dynamik und morphogenese des DafniAusbruches als beispiel einer Staukuppenbildung mit Stromerguss, in Reck, H., ed., Santorin, v. II: Berlin, Dietrich Reimer, p. 114–207 (in German). Reck, H., (1936c). Der sekundäre vulkanismus des Dafni-ausbruches, in Reck, H., ed., Santorin, v. II: Berlin, Dietrich Reimer, p. 208–264 (in German). Reiss, W., and Stübel, A., (1868). Geschichte und Beschreibung der vulkanischen Ausbrüche bei Santorin von der ältesten Zeit bis auf die Gegenwart: Heidelberg, F. Bassermann, 201 p. (in German). Sigurdsson, H., Carey, S. & Devine, J. (1990). Assessment of mass, dynamics and environmental effects of the Minoan eruption of Santorini volcano. In: Hardy, D.A. (ed.) Thera and the Aegean World III: Volume 2 Earth Sciences. Thera Foundation, London, 100–112. Sparks, R.S.J., Wilson, C.J.N. (1990). The Minoan deposits: a review of their characteristics and interpretation, In: Hardy DA (ed), Thera and the Aegean World III, vol 2. Thera Foundation, London, pp 89–99. Virlet d’Aoust, T., (1866). Histoire des Kaïmênis ou des iles volcaniques nouvelles du golfe de Santorin, dans l’archipel de la Grèce: Paris, Loignon et Cie, 21 p. (in French). von Fritsch, K., Reiss, W., and Stübel, A., (1867). Santorin. The Kameni islands: London, Trübner and Co., 7 p. von Seebach, K., (1867). Der Vulkan von Santorin nach einem Besuche im Marz und April 1866 geschildert: Sammlung gemeinverstandlicher Vorträge, ser. II, no. 38, 32 p. (in German). Watts A.B., Nomikou P., Moore J.D.P., Parks M.M., Alexandri M. (2015). Historical bathymetric charts and the evolution of Santorini submarine volcano, Greece. Geochemistry, Geophysics, Geosystems 16 (3), pp.847.

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Caldera Santorini: Discover all there is to know about this breathtaking gem

• What is the caldera of Santorini
• The geology of Santorini
• How to explore the caldera
• A brief history of the Santorini caldera
• Mythology, legends & facts about the caldera
• The impact on tourism
• Caldera of Santo rini is a great destination for those who love an active vacation
• Conclusion for the Santorini caldera

What does caldera mean in Greek?

How deep is the santorini caldera, where is the caldera in santorini, how to get to santorini caldera, which is the most popular spot in caldera.

There is no place quite like the c aldera of Santorini , a true marvel of nature that has captivated visitors for centuries. Formed by a massive volcanic eruption over thousands of years ago, the caldera is a vast crater stretching for miles along the island’s west coast. Today, it is a destination that attracts people from all over the world, drawn by its unique beauty and fascinating history. 

As you stand atop the Santorini caldera edge , looking out over the vast expanse of the sea and sky, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to another world. Its rugged cliffs, painted in red, orange, and gold hues, plunge dramatically into the azure waters below. Keep reading to learn all about this awe-inspiring gem.

Santorini is a volcanic island, so you might wonder, “ What is a caldera actually?” . A caldera is a large crater that forms after an explosion or collapse of land during an eruption. 

It’s caused when magma rises through the earth and erupts through the surface, creating lava flows and ash deposits. Caldera is also the Spanish word for cauldron, meaning “deep pot!”

The Santorini caldera is the largest in Europe and one of the five largest in the world! It covers about 25 square kilometers (about 10 square miles), making it twice as big as Manhattan Island in New York City!

Santorini, Greece , is an active volcanic island in the southern Aegean Sea and one of the world’s youngest islands. It was formed through a volcanic eruption that occurred approximately 3,600 years ago. 

The volcano is still active today and can be seen from most places on Santorini. The active crater of Nea Kameni island is about 2 km wide and has walls over 300 meters high at their highest points, and can be visited through boat tours. As volcanologists monitor its activity and warn, why miss the chance to see it?

With our Santorini tours , of course! 

Experience live the Santorini caldera in an exclusive small group or private  tour!

Check out our Santorini day tours to discover the best option for you and your company.

And also, check out various food & wine tours that give you the best taste of the island!

Private transfers: We suggest utilizing an online pre-booked transfer service that offers transfers by taxi, minibus, or private VIP vehicle, as well as arranging a pickup straight from your hotel. We are in a happy position to arrange that for you!

Vehicle rental: You may hire a car and deliver it to your hotel. The caldera, as well as many other areas of interest, may then be visited. We are also in a happy position to arrange that for you!

All settlements with caldera views may be reached by bus from Fira’s central station. Please keep in mind that timetables may vary depending on the season. Always check the official schedules.

The caldera Santorini results from a massive volcanic eruption in the 16th century BC. The island still has active volcano craters today, which you can see from your hotel room or from one of the many walking trails surrounding it. The caldera was formed in a single eruption that lasted for two weeks and is 4 km wide and 2 km deep!

The island of Santorini is steeped in mythology and legend. The most famous of these legends is that of the sirens , who lured sailors to their death with their beautiful songs.

Another tale tells of a lost city called Atlantis that was destroyed by earthquakes and tidal waves, leaving behind only its name and legend as evidence that it once existed. Several experts say that the best place to hunt for answers to the legendary tale of Atlantis is none other than Santorini. 

There are also stories about how the Minotaur was imprisoned in a labyrinth beneath Crete until he was slain by Theseus (who escaped from his labyrinth).

Regardless of how many disastrous eruptions have happened in the past, the residents have never given up. Santorini’s communities have been meticulously rebuilt after each big eruption or earthquake that destroyed the island’s old settlements!

The caldera has been a popular tourist destination for years. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting hikers, bikers, and water lovers alike.

You can spend your whole vacation on the caldera, but if you have only a few days to explore this ancient place, here are some suggestions:

• Hike up to visit the villages at the top of Santorini’s cliffs (Fira and Oia)

They offer stunning views over the volcano crater itself! You’ll feel like flying over an ocean of white houses that all look similar but different simultaneously.

• Go diving into the deep blue waters of South Coast beach, or check out one of many great restaurants nearby

Where locals hang out during their free time between work shifts in nearby hotels or restaurants owned by family members, including ours!

• Visit Imerovigli, Firostefani and Oia

They offer panoramic sea views. The charming towns are located on the caldera’s highest point and are claimed to have the greatest views in Santorini.

In truth, Imerovigli was formerly an observation point, and a Venetian stronghold was built there.

Currently, Imerovigli has a few cafés and restaurants where you may eat or drink while admiring the wonderful surroundings.

If you’re looking for a more active vacation, Caldera is the place to go. 

With its stunning views and unique history, this island is perfect for those who want to explore it and learn about its past. 

It’s also less crowded in spring and autumn than in other places, so you won’t have trouble finding things to do with your time.

If you’re looking for something more relaxing, the cliffside at the caldera is the perfect spot for set back and relaxing vacation. Book a room with a Santorini caldera view and sit on your balcony to enjoy all day!

Santorini is a magical place, and one of the best ways to experience its beauty is by visiting the Caldera. 

While there are many ways to do this, we recommend choosing Santorini private tours or renting a car to explore at your own pace. 

There are also plenty of things to do in Santorini – activities available in nearby villages such as Oia (where sunset photos have become famous) or Akrotiri, which offers more archaeology than most other places in Santorini!

• FAQs about caldera Santorini

In Greek, “caldera” refers to a volcanic crater or the cauldron-like depression that forms after a volcanic eruption. In the context of Santorini, the term “caldera” is used to describe the large, water-filled volcanic crater created by a massive explosion in ancient times. It’s a defining geological feature of the island and is surrounded by the steep cliffs and picturesque villages that Santorini is famous for.

The depth of the Santorini caldera varies across its different parts. The central, submerged portion of the caldera is quite deep, while the surrounding cliffs and islands have varying depths. More specifically:

• Central caldera: The submerged part of the Santorini caldera can reach depths of over 1,200 feet (about 360 meters) or more in some places. This deep central area is where the massive volcanic explosion that formed it occurred.
• Cliff depths: The cliffs surrounding the caldera, particularly on the western side of the island, can rise several hundred feet above sea level. However, these cliffs also extend below sea level to varying depths, depending on their location.
• Islands: Within the caldera, there are several small islands, the largest of which is Therasia (also known as Thirassia). The waters around these islands can be quite deep as well.

Keep in mind that the exact depth of the Santorini caldera varies depending on the location and the specific geological features. It’s a complex and dynamic underwater landscape, and depths can change over time due to geological activity and erosion.

The caldera is located in the western part of Santorini. The towns of Fira (the capital), Oia, Imerovigli, and others are situated along the cliffs overlooking the caldera, offering breathtaking views of the submerged crater and the deep blue waters below. So, make sure you book your accommodation in one of those villages if you want to relish this majestic landscape.

Once you are on the island of Santorini, you can easily explore the caldera by visiting the towns and villages perched on the cliffs overlooking it, such as Fira, Oia, and Imerovigli. Some popular ways to reach these tourist destinations are taxis, buses, rental cars and guided Santorini day tours .

You can also take sailing tours, including a Santorini catamaran sunset cruise , that offer a closer view of the caldera and the islands within it, such as Nea Kameni, where you can hike to volcanic craters.

The most popular spot in the Santorini caldera is the village of Oia. Oia is renowned for its breathtaking caldera vistas, sunset views, picturesque architecture and vibrant life. Due to all the above, it is no wonder why it is one of the most iconic and photographed locations in Greece, remaining the top choice for many travelers seeking the quintessential Santorini experience.

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Santorini Travel Guide: Things To Do in Santorini, Greece

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

14 Things To Do in Santorini

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

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

1. Wander the streets of Oia

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

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

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

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

2. Oia’s unforgettable sunset

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

See the best hotels in Oia

3. Discover Fira in Santorini

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

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

Firostefani

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

Hotels in Santorini 😴

4. Hike from Fira to Oia

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

More Greece: Visit Milos Island with its paradise beaches

5. Imerovigli

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

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

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

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

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

Here are all your hotel options in Santorini.

7. Explore the island by ATV or motorcycle

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

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

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

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Prices for renting an ATV/Quad or Motorcycle on Santorini

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

8. Visit villages

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

Megalochori 

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

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

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

9. Visit Red Beach

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

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

10. Go on a wine tour  

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

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

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

11. Perissa Beach

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

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

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

12. Archeological sites in Santorini

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

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

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

Book an archeological tour on the island here.

13. Ammoudi Bay

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

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

14. Santorini Volcano and Hot Springs

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

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

Where to eat

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

Our favorite restaurants in Santorini were:

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

Where to stay on Santorini

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

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

How to visit Santorini

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

Getting to Santorini

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

Check the ferry tickets and prices here .

Santorini Airport

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

Getting around Santorini

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

Santorini car rental

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

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

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

Public transport in Santorini

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

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

ATV or Motorbike rental

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

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

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

Your Budget for Santorini

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

Costs of Traveling in Santorini

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

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

Best Time to Visit Santorini

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

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

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

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

9 Best Things to do in Paros, Greece 

Renting a car in greece in 2024: all you need to know, greek island hopping: ultimate greece travel guide.

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

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

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

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The Best Views in Santorini

Greece › Santorini › Best Views Updated: May 12, 2020 By Santorini Dave

• Best Hotels in Santorini
• Where to Stay in Santorini
• Best Santorini Tours
• Rental Cars in Santorini

1. Venetsanos Winery

View from Venetsanos Winery into the caldera. • Map

2. Santo Wines

Magnificent volcano views from Santo Wines winery. • Map

3. Oia Castle

View of Oia Castle – the most popular spot for watching sunsets in Santorini. • Map

4. Ammoudi Bay

Tavernas and fishing boats at the Ammoudi Bay port below Oia. • Map

5. Skaros Rock

View of Skaros Rock from Imerovigli. • Map

6. Hiking Path from Fira to Oia

View of the caldera cliffs on the Fira to Oia hike. • Map

7. Caldera Views from Fira

Nighttime view from Fira towards Imerovigli and Skaros Rock. • Map

8. Panoramic Views from Pyrgos

Sweeping panoramic views from Akrotiri to Oia from the Venetian Castle at the top of Pyrgos.

9. Red Beach

View of Red Beach in southern Santorini. Best seen from a boat (and safest, as there is falling rock along the path). • Map

10. Emporio Village

The traditional architecture of Emporio near Perissa Beach. • Map

11. Oia Churches

View of a church in Oia looking toward the caldera. • Map

12. Volcano Views from Fira

View of the volcano from Fira. • Map

13. Ancient Thera

Hilltop view from the ruins of Ancient Thera near Kamari Beach. • Map

14. Akrotiri Lighthouse

The Santorini lighthouse on the southwestern tip of the island. • Map

15. View of Imerovigli from Skaros Rock

From Imerovigli walk out to Skaros Rock. Incredible views of Imerovigli (to the east), the caldera and volcano (to the south), and Oia and the sunset (to the north and northwest). • Map

16. Fira from Imerovigli

View looking south at Fira from the path leading to Imerovigli • Map

17. Athenian House

The best restaurant views on Santorini are from Athenian House in Imerovigli. Map

18. Perissa Beach

View of a church and Mesa Vouno (the mountain) in Perissa Beach. • Map

19. Santorini Countryside

View of Santorini countryside in the southern part of the island. This is also where you’ll find most of Santorini’s wineries.

20. Caldera Views from Oia

View looking into the caldera from the south end of Oia (near Perivolas Hotel). • Map

21. Town Views in Oia

View of the western end of Oia town. • Map

22. Staircase to Ammoudi Bay from Oia

Looking up at Oia from the stairwell down to the Ammoudi Bay port. • Map

23. St Nicholas Island

A small island for swimming and cliff jumping just south of Ammoudi Bay. Skaros Rock and Imerovigli are visible in the background. • Map

24. Fishing Villages on East Coast of Santorini

One of several small fishing villages (such as Exo Gialos and Vourvoulos) on the east coast of Santorini. • Map

25. Elinikon Taverna (the best sunset views in Oia)

Sunset view from Elinikon Taverna in Oia. • Map

26. Fira Alleyways

View of a church from the alleyways of Fira. • Map

27. Kamari Beach

View of Mesa Vouno from Kamari Beach. • Map

28. East Coast Beaches

The unique rock formations near Monolithos Beach on the east side of the island. • Map

29. Caldera Views from the Cable Car

View from the cable car looking up at Fira. • Map

About Santorini Dave

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

Updated On: April 26, 2023

Written By: Pavlos Inglesis

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

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

BEST HOTEL IN SANTORINI: San Antonio

BUT ALSO CHECK:

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

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

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

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

Get my secrets for Greece and Santorini in your email!

Keep reading…

VERY IMPORTANT TO KNOW :

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

RECOMMENDED WEBSITES FOR GREECE:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. What is Santorini?

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

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

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

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

2. Where is Santorini?

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

3. Where To Stay in Santorini ?

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

You literally have 2 options:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

These are the  Top 20 Most Luxurious Hotels of Santorini.

These are the  10 Best Hotels in Oia.

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

None of these towns are close to the sea though.

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

But no access to a beach unfortunately.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. When Is The Best Time to Visit Santorini ?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Remember: it’s still Santorini!

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

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

Read Also:  The Best Time To Visit Santorini

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. How To Get To Santorini ?

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

Read Also:   How to Get From Athens to Santorini

Read Also:   How To Get From Athens to Mykonos

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

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

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

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

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

• Best Website to Book Ferry Boat tickets:  Ferryhopper

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

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

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

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

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

7. Are There Any Direct Flights to Santorini ?

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

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

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

So, basically your options are:

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

8. What Is The Caldera?

Santorini  is a volcanic island.

To be more precise it is an active volcano!

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

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

Here is an amazing video showing what happened:

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

• Firostefani

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

9. How Many Days Should You Spend in Santorini?

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

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

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

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

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

Is a Day Trip from Athens to Santorini possible?

Yes, it is.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Santorini or Mykonos ?

This is a dilemma that any people have.

They are both amazing islands but:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can also read my detailed comparison:  Mykonos or Santorini

Read Also:  How To Get From Santorini to Mykonos

So, to sum it up:

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

11. Best Greek Islands Near Santorini

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

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

Read Also:  Best Greek Islands to Visit from Santorini

These are the greek islands you can visit from Santorini:

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Best Sunset Views in Santorini

Santorini’s  sunset are famous all over the world.

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

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

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

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

13. How To Rent A Quad in Santorini ?

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

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

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

14. Money in Santorini. Do I Need Cash ?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read Also:  How To Get Around in Santorini

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

16. How To Rent A Car in Santorini ?

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

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

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

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

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

17. What Are The Best Boat Tours in Santorini ?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

These are the  best wine tours  of the island:

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

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

Read Also Our Detailed Guide:  Best Wineries of Santorini

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

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

20. Shopping in Santorini. Any good?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Best Family Hotels in Santorini are:

• Tsitouras Collection
• Aqua Blue Beach Hotel
• Tamarix Del Mar
• Gabbiano Hotel

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

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

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TOP RATED HOTELS IN:

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

TOP RATED VILLAS IN:

Oia:  Anemi House

Fira:  Anteliz Villa

Kamari:  Eolia Villa

Pyrgos:  Sensation Villa

Akrotiri:  Cavo Ventus

Firostefani:  Villa Aura

Imerovigli:  Grace Villa

BEST THINGS TO DO IN SANTORINI:

🌄 Sunset Cruise with Meals and Drinks

🍷 Half-Day Wine Adventure Tour

🥾 Hike the path from Fira to Oia

ALL AVAILABLE FERRIES TO GREEK ISLANDS:

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

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

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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

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INSTITUTE FOR THE STUDY AND MONITORING OF THE SANTORINI VOLCANO (ISMOSAV)

The Institute for the Study and Monitoring of the Santorini Volcano (I.S.M.O.SA.V.) is a non-profit organisation, founded in the summer of 1995, whose primary aim is to continue to maintain the operation of the Volcano Observatory and the monitoring networks, which were established under a research program funded by the E.U.

Its main target is the promotion of volcanological research on the island, more specifically how to achieve the most accurate assessment possible regarding volcanic phenomena, and the increased probability of precise forecasting of any future volcanic eruption.

The Institute provides Santorini with an integral monitoring system, which guarantees the timely prediction of a possible volcanic eruption and undertakes the responsibility of disproving any false statements or rumors regarding a negative state of the volcano.

Amongst the founding members, ISMOSAV includes the majority of Greek scientists who participated in the above mentioned E.U. program, members of the Santorini civil authorities and members of the public interested in the volcanic phenomena on Santorini island group.

The Board of Directors, after the elections of the 20th of October 2018,  is formed by:

• George Vougioukalakis – President | Volcanologist, Hellenic Survey of Geology & Mineral Exploration – HSGME
• Anastasios – Nikolas Zorzos – Vice President | Councillor, Municipality of Thera
• Konstantinos Papazachos – Secretary General | Professor of Seismology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
• Spyros Pavlidis – Treasurer| Professor emeritus of Geology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
• Theodore Laopoulos – Member| Professor of “Electronic Circuits for Measurement and Control” at the Electronics Lab., Physics Department, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki,
• Andreas Vlachos – Member| Urologic surgeon, Santorini
• Nikolaos Christou – Member | Geologist at the Subprefecture of Santorini
• Eleftherios Roussos – Alternate Member | ex National Bank of Greece employee, hotelier
• Maria Papachristou – Geologist, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki

The Former President, Michael Fytikas, Professor Emeritus of Geothermics, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki,  was declared by the General Assembly to be the Honorary President.  

Contact details:

Institute for the Study and Monitoring of the Santorini Volcano IRIS Building Eftheia Firon Pyrgou, 84700 Santorini

Website: https://www.ismosav.gr

Email: [email protected]

Monitoring the Santorini volcano

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10 Extraordinary Hotels With Breathtaking Volcano Views Right From Your Room

• Hotels around the world offer unique and breathtaking volcano views from the comfort of your room, providing an unforgettable blend of comfort and natural beauty.
• Enjoy the awe-inspiring vistas of volcanoes, whether it's the snow-capped peaks of Mount Etna or the fiery lava flow of Kilauea, at these strategically positioned hotels.
• Immerse yourself in the stunning volcanic landscapes of destinations like Costa Rica, Santorini, and Japan, where hotels provide the perfect vantage points for guests to savor the beauty.

Picture yourself waking up in the comfort of your hotel room, drawing back the curtains to reveal a stunning panorama of a majestic volcano right outside your window. From the rugged terrains of Iceland to the tropical paradises of Hawaii, hotels all over the world offer guests the unique experience of enjoying breathtaking volcano views without even stepping outside. Whether you're savoring your morning coffee while gazing at the snow-capped peaks of Mount Etna or relaxing in a hot tub as you watch the lava flow of Kilauea or Mauna Loa , these accommodations provide an unmatched blend of comfort and natural beauty. With rooms strategically positioned to maximize the awe-inspiring vistas, these 10 hotels all over the world offer an unforgettable stay for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the breathtaking allure of volcanic landscapes.

The Springs Resort & Spa, Costa Rica

This sprawling 165-acre haven offers 74 rooms, each featuring a furnished balcony showcasing the volcano in all its glory. Imagine soaking in a steaming hot spring (the resort boasts 13!), surrounded by lush greenery, with the volcano as your breathtaking backdrop. Feeling adventurous? Explore the on-site wildlife sanctuary, embark on rainforest trails leading to hidden waterfalls, or even try your hand at rock climbing! For pampering, indulge in a unique floating water massage or volcanic clay body wrap at the spa. When hunger strikes, savor delectable dishes at five restaurants and bars, offering everything from sports bar fare to sushi and fine dining.

• Accommodation: The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal
• Address: Arenal, 9 Km West, La Fortuna 21007
• Average cost/night: USD 800
• Room With Volcano View: Vista Guest Room
• Amenities: Snorkeling, Outdoor pool, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, Watersports activities

Volcano View Hotel, Santorini

Picture waking up to a scene straight out of a postcard: the Aegean Sea sparkling below, Santorini's iconic caldera stretching out before you, and the fiery glow of the volcano painting the morning sky. This is the reality at Volcano View, a hotel perched majestically on the cliff's edge, offering breathtaking volcanic vistas at every turn. Unwind on your private balcony or terrace, the sea breeze carrying the scent of sun-drenched Santorini. Savor delicious meals at the Caldera restaurant, where stunning views accompany every bite. Take a dip in one of the three swimming pools, each overlooking the volcano, the sea, and the legendary Santorini sunset. Volcano View isn't just a hotel; it's an immersion into the island's unique volcanic landscape.

• Accommodation: Volcano View Hotel
• Address: Fira, Thera
• Average cost/night: USD 463
• Rooms With Volcano View: Junior and grand suite, superior room
• Amenities: Snorkeling, Outdoor pool, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi

Related: These Are 12 Of The Most Notable Active Volcanoes In The World

Arenal Manoa Resort & Hot Springs, Costa Rica

Perched atop a hill in the Palma area, this resort offers unparalleled volcano vistas from each of its private bungalows. Unwind in your spacious suite, complete with a mini fridge, air conditioning, and an outdoor space where you can dine al fresco while gazing at the fiery peak. Take a dip in the hot springs, featuring two pools, a hot tub, and a swim-up bar, or indulge in a rejuvenating treatment at the spa. When it comes to dining, La Saca Restaurant tantalizes your taste buds with Costa Rican flavors and boasts an expansive outdoor dining area with breathtaking volcano views. For a change of pace, Alambique Bistro serves delicious wood-fired pizzas and sandwiches.

• Accommodation: Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs Resort
• Address: From Fortuna center 7km towards Volcano, La Fortuna
• Average cost/night: USD 395
• Rooms With Volcano View: Chato, Junior, and superior suite
• Amenities: Snorkeling, Outdoor pool, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, spa

Fuji View Hotel, Japan

Craving a room with a view? Look no further than Fuji View Hotel. Spacious rooms boast large windows showcasing either the majestic Mount Fuji, an active volcano on Japan's largest island, Honshu, and the most recognized volcano worldwide , or the serene Lake Kawaguchi. Imagine starting your day with Mount Fuji's snow-capped peak greeting you through the window or unwinding after exploring with a soak in the newly renovated hot springs, all while admiring the view. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi, shuttles to the train station, and traditional Japanese gardens. Whether you choose a mountain or lake view, Fuji View Hotel guarantees an unforgettable volcanic experience.

• Accommodation: Fuji View Hotel, Fujikawaguchiko
• Address: Katsuyama 511, Fujikawaguchiko 401-0310
• Average cost/night: USD 327
• Rooms With Volcano View: Moderate Japanese-Style Room or Moderate Twin Room
• Amenities: Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, Spa, Massage, Free Parking

Isleta El Espino, Granada, Nicaragua

Forget standard hotel rooms; imagine waking up on a private terrace, throwing open the door, and right in front of you, the Mombacho volcano rises majestically from the heart of Lake Nicaragua. Not just any volcano, mind you, but one crowned with lush rainforest and shrouded in misty intrigue. That's the magical scene every room at this eco-friendly boutique hotel boasts. Picture yourself sipping your morning coffee while gazing at the volcano's slopes or unwinding after a day of exploring with a cocktail in hand, watching the fiery hues of sunset paint the sky behind Mombacho. The laid-back vibe of the hotel extends to its communal spaces, too. It's an unforgettable backdrop for your Nicaraguan adventure, one that starts and ends with Mombacho's captivating presence.

• Accommodation: Isleta El Espino, Granada
• Address: Isleta El Espino, Isletas de Granada, Granada, Nicaragua
• Average cost/night: USD 120
• Rooms With Volcano View: The Casitas Rooms

The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort

Immerse yourself in volcanic wonder at this mid-range haven where volcano views permeate every corner. From your room's private balcony to the outdoor pools and restaurants, the majestic peak is your constant companion. Relax in the natural thermal pools, some featuring waterfalls and even flowing directly from the resort's thermal river. Lush gardens, wooden bridges, and natural stonework create a truly enchanting atmosphere. Savor delectable meals at Lava Restaurant, perched on the top floor with an open-air setting that maximizes the volcanic panorama. After a day of exploration, treat yourself to pampering at Loto Spa or simply unwind in your spacious room with air conditioning, a minibar, and a volcano-facing balcony.

• Accommodation: The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort
• Address: 2.5mi / 4km From Fortuna, La Fortuna 21007
• Average cost/night: USD 371
• Room With Volcano View: Deluxe King Room

Volcano Lodge, Costa Rica

True to its name, this family-owned gem offers incredible volcano views from its pool, junior suites, and some hot springs. Nestled amid lush gardens, the property features its own private thermal pools, perfect for soaking away your worries. Start your day with a refreshing workout at the on-site gym or yoga platform, then fuel up at the restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In the evenings, unwind at the sports bar with snacks and drinks, or simply relax on your terrace, enjoying the volcanic spectacle. Choose from simple yet comfortable rooms with air conditioning and mini-fridges, or upgrade to a thermal room or suite for a private plunge pool and sun loungers on your terrace, further enhancing your volcanic experience.

• Accommodation: Volcano Lodge, Hotel & Thermal Experience
• Address: 7 Km West From La Fortuna, La Fortuna 21007
• Average cost/night: USD 185
• Room With Volcano View: Junior Suite
• Amenities: Signature baths, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Daily housekeeping service

Volcano House, Hawaii

Step back in time and become part of the volcanic narrative at the historic Volcano House, nestled within the legendary Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts the unique distinction of being the only hotel within park boundaries. Imagine the thrill of dining and sleeping mere steps from the active Kilauea volcano's crater , feeling the very pulse of the Earth beneath your feet. Mark Twain himself, a guest at the hotel's 1870s iteration, declared his surprise at finding "a good hotel in such an incredible spot," a sentiment that undoubtedly resonates with modern-day travelers as well.

• Accommodation: Volcano House, Volcano
• Address: 1 Crater Rim Drive, Volcano, The Big Island, HI 96718
• Average cost/night: USD 422
• Rooms With Volcano View: Volcano Crater View Rooms & Deluxe Volcano Crater View Rooms

Related : 15 Important Facts You Should Know About Mauna Loa

Hotel Magic Mountain, Costa Rica

At this standard property, volcano views greet you from every corner, starting with the outdoor pool with hot tubs and hidden nooks to the garden terrace and your private room balcony. But the true highlight is the rooftop lounge and bar, offering panoramic vistas while you savor international cuisine with a local touch. When it comes to your room, expect modern comfort with air conditioning, mini-fridges, and private balconies showcasing the volcanic wonder. For a touch of luxury, opt for a suite with added space, a wine bar, and an in-room Jacuzzi tub, all perfectly positioned to witness the volcano's mesmerizing presence.

• Accommodation: Hotel Magic Mountain Spa & Conference Center
• Address: La Fortuna de San Carlos, La Fortuna 21007
• Average cost/night: USD 139
• Rooms With Volcano View: Junior & Superior Rooms
• Amenities: Private bath with hot water, ceramic tile floors, balcony or terrace with a view of the volcano, free high-speed Internet access

Escala Tagaytay, Philippines

Craving adventure by day and luxury by night? Look no further than Escala Tagaytay. This haven offers the perfect blend, where days are filled with thrilling exploration and evenings melt into serene indulgence, all against the backdrop of Taal, one of the prettiest spots in the Philippines and the second most active volcano. After a day of adrenaline-pumping adventures, you return to your room at Escala. Open your balcony doors and be greeted by the mesmerizing panorama of Taal Lake, its sparkling waters reflecting the fiery glow of the volcanic peak. Take a deep breath of fresh air, letting the awe-inspiring scenery wash over you. Escala isn't just about the views, though. It's a luxurious escape where creature comforts are plentiful. Unwind by the infinity pool, its edge seemingly merging with the volcanic vista. Indulge in mouthwatering cuisine at the hotel's restaurants, each bite infused with local flavors.

• Accommodation: Escala Tagaytay, Tagaytay
• Address: Purok, 102, Maharlika West, Tagaytay 4120
• Average cost/night: USD 170
• Rooms With Volcano View: Family Prestige and Executive Room