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Santorini Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 12, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Santorini

1. Spend the day in Oia

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

2. Visit Akrotiri

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

3. Explore Red Beach

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

4. Tour a winery

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

5. See the Santorini Volcano

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

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

2. Go scuba diving

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

3. See the Museum of Prehistoric Thira

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

4. Hike from Fira to Oia

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

5. Visit the Akrotiri Lighthouse

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

6. Hike up to Ancient Thera

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

7. Explore Pyrgos

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

8. Take a sailing trip

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

9. Try a cooking class

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

10. Hike to the highest point on Santorini

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

11. Take an e-bike tour

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

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

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

Santorini Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Santorini Suggested Budgets

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

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

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

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

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

Santorini Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

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

Where to Stay in Santorini

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

• Youth Hostel Anna
• Bedspot Hostel
• Asterolithos Hotel

How to Get Around Santorini

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

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

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

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

When to Go to Santorini

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

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

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

How to Stay Safe on Santorini

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

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

Santorini Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

Santorini Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hostels in Athens

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

The Best Walking Tours in Athens

Traveling Greece: How Much Does It Cost?

Fulfilling Childhood Dreams in Crete

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

How to Get to Santorini

Greece › Santorini › Getting There Updated: June 6, 2023 By Santorini Dave

• Best Hotels in Santorini
• Where to Stay in Santorini
• Santorini Ferry Port Guide
• Heraklion (Crete) Ferry Port Guide
• Piraeus (Athens) Ferry Port Guide

Finding Santorini Flights, Ferries and Hotels The earlier you can book Santorini hotels and flights the better (4 to 8 months in advance). Large ferries rarely sell out, smaller catamarans sometimes do. These can be booked about 1 to 3 months in advance. Kayak has long been my favorite site for cheap flights but a simple Google search with origin and destination now gives very thorough results. FerryHopper.com is the best way to research ferry schedules and book tickets for ferries in Greece.

Flights to Santorini

How to Get to Santorini from Athens

The morning ferry from Athens to Santorini. Most ferries to Santorini (but not all) leave between 7am and 8am from the Piraeus ferry port. Taxis can pull up right to the ferry. The metro station is across the street. Tickets can be picked up at the kiosks very close to the ferries. Flying to Santorini is faster but the ferry is more fun and unique. I also find ferry travel more relaxed and hassle-free than the stress of airport crowds and security checks.

Step 1 : Get to Athens – there are many cheap flights from western Europe. Step 2 : Buy ferry ticket – book tickets online or buy at a travel agent in Athens or at the ferry port. Step 3 : Take the metro (20 to 30 minutes) or taxi (30 to 40 minutes) to the Piraeus ferry port. Most ferries leave in the morning, plan to arrive 1 hour in advance. Step 4 : Enjoy the ride to Santorini. The trip from Athens to Santorini takes 5 hours on a highspeed ferry and 8 hours on a conventional ferry. Views as you enter the caldera are wonderful. More info: Athens to Santorini Ferries

How to Get to Santorini from London

Step 1 : Search for direct flights on Kayak.com . Buy the cheapest flight as there’s no difference in quality between the airlines. Step 2 : If there are no good direct flights search for flights via Athens, Paris, Rome, Naples, or Venice. Step 3 : If you want to spend time in Athens fly to Athens, then ferry to Santorini . Step 4 : When you arrive in Santorini take a short bus or taxi ride to Fira, Oia, or whatever town you’re staying in. (The island is small and all towns are less than 40 minutes from the airport or ferry port.)

How to Get to Santorini from Paris

Step 1 : Search for direct flights on Kayak.com . Buy the cheapest flight as there’s no difference in quality between the airlines. Step 2 : If there are no good direct flights search for flights via Athens, Rome, Naples, or Venice. Step 3 : If you want to spend time in Athens fly to Athens, then ferry to Santorini . Step 4 : When you arrive in Santorini take a short bus or taxi ride to Fira, Oia, or whatever town you’re staying in. (The island is small and all towns are less than 40 minutes from the airport or ferry port.)

How to Get to Santorini from Italy

Step 1 : Search for direct flights to Santorini from Rome, Naples, Pisa, Milan, or Venice on Kayak.com . Buy the cheapest flight as there’s no difference in quality between the airlines. Step 2 : If there are no good direct flights search for flights via Athens, Mykonos, or Crete. Step 3 : If you want to spend time in Athens fly to Athens, then ferry to Santorini . Step 4 : When you arrive in Santorini take a short bus or taxi ride to Fira, Oia, or whatever town you’re staying in. (The island is small and all towns are less than 40 minutes from the airport or ferry port.)

How to Get to Santorini from Crete

Step 1 : There are usually no direct flights from Crete to Santorini. If you still want to fly search for flights via Athens on Kayak.com . Step 2 : Book tickets on FerryHopper.com . Step 3 : Arrive at Heraklion ferry port 45 minutes in advance to pick up tickets from ticket kiosk (located directly beside departing ferries). Step 4 : When you arrive at the Santorini ferry port take a short bus ride to Fira (then switch buses if you’re going somewhere other than Fira) or taxi ride to Fira, Oia, or whatever town you’re staying in. (The island is small and all towns are less than 40 minutes from the airport or ferry port.)

How to Get to Santorini from Rhodes

Step 1 : There are usually no direct flights from Rhodes to Santorini. If you still want to fly search for flights via Athens on Kayak.com . Step 2 : Book tickets on a Blue Star ferry (usually the only ferry between Rhodes and Santorini). Step 3 : Arrive at Rhodes Town ferry port 45 minutes in advance to pick up tickets from ticket kiosk (located near departing ferries). Step 4 : When you arrive at the Santorini ferry port take a short bus ride to Fira (then switch buses if you’re going somewhere other than Fira) or taxi ride to Fira, Oia, or whatever town you’re staying in. (The island is small and all towns are less than 40 minutes from the airport or ferry port.)

How to Get to Santorini from Mykonos

Step 1 : There are usually no direct flights from Mykonos to Santorini. If you still want to fly search for flights via Athens on Kayak.com . Step 2 : Book ferry tickets on FerryHopper.com . Step 3 : Pickup tickets at designated travel agent in Mykonos Town (different for each ferry company). Step 4 : Be sure you know which ferry port your ferry departs from. Most ferries depart from the new ferry port (a 10 minute bus ride from Mykonos Town) but some smaller catamarans depart from the Mykonos Town ferry port (walking distance from town). Step 5 : Arrive at appropriate ferry port 30 minutes in advance. Step 6 : When you arrive at the Santorini ferry port take a short bus ride to Fira (then switch buses if you’re going somewhere other than Fira) or taxi ride to Fira, Oia, or whatever town you’re staying in. (The island is small and all towns are less than 40 minutes from the airport or ferry port.)

How to Get to Santorini from The US and Canada

Step 1 : Search for direct flights to Athens on Kayak.com . Usually, Toronto and New York have direct flights to Athens, other cities will need to fly via Toronto, New York, London, Paris, Amsterdam, or Frankfurt. Step 2 : Search for flights from Athens (or a hub city in western Europe) to Santorini. There are no direct flights from North America to Santorini. Step 3 : If you want to spend time in Athens fly to Athens, then ferry to Santorini . Step 4 : When you arrive in Santorini take a short bus or taxi ride to Fira, Oia, or whatever town you’re staying in. (The island is small and all towns are less than 40 minutes from the airport or ferry port.)

What’s the best way to get to Santorini?

Flying to Santorini is the quickest and easiest way. You can fly to Santorini from Athens or directly from cities in western Europe such as London, Manchester, Paris, Amsterdam, Rome, Naples, or Venice. . But there are no direct flights to Santorini from other Greek islands – though this changes from year to year and some summers there will be flights from Mykonos, Rhodes, or Heraklion (Crete) to Santorini. If you’re already in the center of Athens it can be easier to take a ferry or high-speed catamaran from Piraeus (the Athens port) than to deal with getting to the airport and through security. But flying would still be a few hours faster. Arriving by ferry in Santorini is a great experience. The cliffs loom over your boat and it’s a really awesome first impression of the island. (Less so if you arrive by a high-speed ferry as you’re trapped inside, behind sea-sprayed windows.) On the Blue Star ferry you can wander the decks and you’ll have a great view of the volcano and caldera. The Blue Star ferry from Athens to Santorini runs 365 days a year. There are also high speed ferries and catamarans to Santorini, most often on Hellenic Seaways , Minoan Lines , and Sea Jets ferries. These ferries do not run in the off-season and in the shoulder season, they can be smaller catamarans that can have a very bumpy ride. In summer they are usually larger ferries. But if you’re very concerned about seasickness then take the Blue Star. There are cabins available on the Blue Star ferry to Santorini. But since the most popular ferry leaves from Athens early in the morning it’s silly to spend the time in a cabin when you could be walking the decks and enjoying the view of passing islands. A 2nd class or “deck” ticket is the cheapest ticket. For an extra few euros, you can reserve an airplane-style seat which is what I recommend doing. A good compromise between flying and ferry is to take the ferry to Santorini and then fly back. It does take some planning to find the right tickets but the perfect route is to fly to Athens, ferry to Santorini (perhaps stopping at a few islands along the way), then flying from Santorini back to Athens – or fly directly from Athens to Western Europe as you will have already been to Athens and don’t need to visit again. If you’re island hopping Santorini has good connections with most of the other popular islands like Crete, Mykonos, Naxos, and Paros. Rhodes is more difficult to get to from Santorini (and a longer ferry ride) but still doable. There are no direct ferries or flights from Santorini to Istanbul. If you want to travel from Santorini to Istanbul the quickest and easiest way is to fly to Athens and then fly to Istanbul. If you want to take the ferry from Santorini to Turkey the easiest route is to ferry to Rhodes (usually an overnight ferry when a cabin would be recommended) and then a short 90-minute ferry to Marmaris on the Turkish coast. Ferries between Santorini and Rhodes run 2 or 3 times per week and take 7 to 15 hours.

How do I get from the Santorini airport to Fira, Oia, and the rest of the island?

Rental Car – If you’re planning to rent a car in Santorini it’s best to pick up your car at the Santorini airport on arrival and then save yourself the cost of transportation to your hotel. But, if you’re arriving at night I wouldn’t recommend dealing with finding your hotel (and parking) in the dark. Just taxi to your hotel then get your rental car the next day. Private Transfer – The easiest and quickest way to get into Fira and to the rest of the island is by pre-booked private transfer. Welcome Pickups is a convenient and reliable service, with rates that are similar to a taxi. If you have pre-booked with Welcome Pickups, there’s no need to worry about having cash to pay fare, and your driver will be waiting for you at the airport, holding a sign with your name on it. Taxi – Taxi is also an easy way to get from the airport to Santorini’s main towns, but there is often a long queue. There will always be taxis available at the airport though it can involve a wait (especially if 2 flights arrive at the same time). It costs about 20 euros to Fira and Kamari, and 30 to 35 euros to go to the rest of the island. Taxi and transfer information . Taxi phone number: 22860-22555. Bus – In high season (roughly June to September) buses run every hour between Fira and the airport. Most of these buses are running the Fira to Monolithos route and make a stop at the airport – although there might be a few additional buses each day that do only the Fira to airport run. There are fewer buses on the weekend and also fewer buses during the low season. It takes about 15 minutes to get from the airport to Fira by bus and costs about 2 euros. Plan to have small change available so that you don’t need to ask for change from a 50 euro note. If you want to go anywhere else other than Fira (or Monolithos) you’ll need to change buses in Fira (which is easy enough, but time consuming). Hotel Pickup – If your hotel offers free pickup and dropoff, be sure to take advantage. Most do charge but as long as it’s close to the taxi rate it’s a good choice.

How do I get to and from the ferry port in Santorini?

All ferries arrive at Athinios port. Getting from the port to any town is easy and shouldn’t cause any anxiety. You can do absolutely no pre-arranging of pickup details and you’ll get to your hotel just fine. (It’s more important to pre-arrange transportation to the port then from the port.) Bus – There will always be a bus waiting as your ferry arrives at the port no matter what time of day or night. If you’re staying in a town other than Fira you’ll need to get to Fira first and then switch buses there. The cost form the port to Fira is about 2 euros. The bus from the port to Fira takes about 20 minutes and drops you at the bus station in the middle of Fira. The bus, like all buses on Santorini, is air conditioned and has plenty of room for luggage. A bus leaves from Fira to the ferry port about 1 hour before every ferry departure and arrival (a schedule of bus departures from Fira is posted 1 or 2 days before and is based on the arriving ferries). Taxi – There will usually be taxis waiting as ferries arrive but there may be a wait to secure one. If it’s late at night you might want to arrange pickup in advance. It costs about 15 euros from the ferry port to Fira, 25 euros from the ferry port to Oia, and somewhere in-between to go anywhere else on the island. A taxi ride from the port to Fira takes about 15 minutes. Taxis going to the port can be hard to find. When people miss the bus to the port (which leaves about 1 hour before each ferry arrival) then the rush to grab a taxi begins. Taxi phone number: 22860-22555. Private Transfer – The easiest and quickest way to get into Fira and to the rest of the island is by pre-booked private transfer. Welcome Pickups is a convenient and reliable service, with rates that are similar to a taxi. If you have pre-booked with Welcome Pickups, there’s no need to worry about having cash to pay fare, and your driver will be waiting for you at the airport, holding a sign with your name on it. Hotel Transfer – Many hotels provide transportation from the port to their hotel. For some it’s free, for others it’s charged at a rate similar to a taxi or a bit more. Don’t bother pre-arranging pickup months in advance (when you book your hotel). Send an email to your hotel a few days before so the pickup details are fresh in their minds. Rental Car – If you’re planning to rent a car in Santorini don’t pickup from the ferry port. Take a bus, taxi, or hotel transfer and then pickup your rental car in Fira or Oia. Cruise Ships – If you’re arriving on a Santorini cruise you’ll be tendered in a small boat from the ship to the Skalafira port directly below Fira. From there you can either climb the steps (a lot of them) or take a cable car (which will probably involve waiting some time in a line). There are also donkey rides up the path you walk but many find their use offensive so be prepared for some dirty looks by people who don’t think donkeys should be used (abused) in this manner.

The Best Hotels on Santorini Maps of Santorini The Best Tours and Things to Do in Santorini The Best Hotels on Mykonos The Best Hotels on Crete The Best Luxury Hotels in Athens

About Santorini Dave

Hi. Do you have any tips for flying from London to Athens, staying for a week then to Santorini for a week then return to London? Thanks!

There are many flights between both London and Athens, and London and Santorini. So, be sure to fly into one and out of the other. That is, don’t fly into Athens, ferry to and from Santorini, and then fly back from Athens. It’s a waste of time and money.

We are looking to go to Greece the last week in October. Do flights run all year round? I’m trying to find flights from Athens to Santorini and nothing is coming up. We thought we would also go to Mykonos as well.

Yes, there are many daily flights from Athens to Santorini in October. Then ferry to Mykonos. From Mykonos, you can fly or ferry to Athens.

Hi Dave, we are flying from Rome to Santorini and debating taking the 12am direct flight on vueling. It arrives around 3am. This seams like a good idea but the airline has terrible reviews and I wasn’t sure if the airport would’ve empty at that time. The other option is through Athens with a 4 hour layover, arriving around 7am. Seems like a waste of time but more reliable airline. Do you have any advice related to these two options? Thanks!

If it was me I would fly direct and just get there. I’ve flown Vueling several times and they’re fine. Of course, there are never any guarantees. Also, I would think that flying via Athens and thus having two flights, two airlines, two places it can go wrong instead of one, would double the chance of a canceled or late flight, regardless of the airline.

I am finding a hard time booking a flight in early July to Santorini from Toronto! What is the best way?

You have a lot of choice for cities to fly through but the best bets are: London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Rome, and Athens. From there you’ll take a short flight from one of the smaller European airlines. Kayak.com is good for finding all the possible routes.

Hi Dave, My daughter and I are flying from NYC (via Zurich with 24-hour layover) to Santorini. We arrive in Santorini at 10am, and have a ferry to Naxos at 330pm. I bought ferry tickets on Blue Star and the website said I could either pick up the ferry tickets in Fira town or at the ferry office on the port. I also heard to leave an hour early to pick up tickets at the ferry office port. Should we go straight to the ferry/port area or hang out in Fira since we have so much time? Where would you pick up the tickets? And what transportation method would you use for this? Thanks so much!

You should take the bus from the airport to Fira. Then check the bus schedule for the ferry port before leaving the bus station. The bus for the port is based on the ferry schedule and there should be one leaving for the port about an hour before the Blue Star leaves. Then go to Pelican Travel on the main street to collect your tickets. You should have this all done by noon and then will have 2.5 hours to wander around Fira and get some lunch.

I would like to get from Santorini to southern Turkey Kusadasi or thereabouts cheaply on September 28th can you offer any advice, please.

The cheapest way is to ferry to Kos, then ferry to Bodrum, then bus to Kusadasi. But the Santorini to Kos ferry does not run every day and even with a perfect set of connections you are looking at two days of travel from Santorini to Kusadasi. To do it in one day you would need to fly from Santorini to Athens, then fly to Istanbul, then fly to Kusadasi (though there might be direct flights from Athens to Kusadasi or a nearby airport – like Izmir).

Hi Dave, thank for such an awesome and informative blog. Anyway, I will be travelling with my wife to Santorini in the end of June, but the flight will arrive in Santorini around 23:00. Is there any public transportation to Perissa at those time? Or should I use a taxi or shuttle?

Even through the day there is no direct bus from the airport to Perissa. You’d need to bus to Fira first, then another bus to Perissa. Can’t say for sure but that probably won’t workout for an 11pm arrival – probably too late. So yes, taxi is your best option.

Hi Dave. Love this blog….I’ve spent hours here planning my honeymoon!! If traveling from the US via Heathrow to Athens, how much time is needed before you board a flight to Santorini? We will have carry on luggage if that matters. Thank you!!

Of course, there are no guarantees, but you’ll need at least an hour. If it were me I’d be uncomfortable booking with anything less than 90 minutes between flights (and even that could be easily missed with a late arriving flight).

Hi Dave, Where i can buy a flight ticket from Athens to Santorini? Can you recommend reliable site? Thanks

Search for Santorini flights on Kayak.com but buy on the airline website (e.g. Aegean).

Hi Dave, love this super helpful blog, was wondering if you had any advice on this, which I haven’t heard anything about elsewhere; When arriving at the airport, if booking a transfer, how soon after landing from Athens can we expect to be out of the airport after going through the process of baggage claim potential passport control? Partially wondering about this also because if I were to book a table for a restaurant I would need to know an estimate of when we would actually have arrived in Imerovigli (where our hotel is and where I suppose we’ll have our first dinner). Sissel

Flying from Athens means you won’t have any passport control. Just need to get your bags. Airport is small. You could be out to the taxi in 10 or 15 minutes from landing. Then to Fira in 15 minutes and to Oia in 30 (though sometimes you will have to wait for a taxi). Your plane could be late too. I’d leave a good 90 minutes after your scheduled landing time to make a reservation.

Love your tips! I am doing a solo trip from end of August to September so about 4 weeks in total. Starting in Athens, heading to Paros (spending just over a week). I have to end my trip in Crete in order to fly to Rome but am curious, what’s the best order to go in after Paros if Crete is my final destination and I want to hit Santorini and Mykonos?

Also is it possible to wait to book ferry trips until I’m in Paros or should I try and book ahead of time?

Thank you! Elizabeth

After Paros, go to Mykonos then Santorini, then Crete. You should be fine to book Paros onwards ferries after arrival as long as you book a few days in advance. The Mykonos to Santorini is the most likely to sell out. Then the Santorini to Crete. (But even those are unlikely to sell out in September.)

Hi, I am thinking about going to Santorini end of April next year, struggling to find flights, do you know what airlines fly at that time of year from the U.K? Also is it generally sunny last week in April or is rain likely? Lorna

British Airways and EasyJet have the most direct flights from London to Santorini (including April). BA typically flies from Heathrow. EasyJet from Gatwick. They might not have their full schedule out this far in advance so keep checking – should be out by September at the latest.

Hello, Dave! My companion and I are traveling to Greece this summer. We will be arriving in Athens on 1 Aug, then flying to Santorini on 5 Aug. My question is about flights. I went through Kayak to book a flight from Athens to Santorini. After the add ons to the flight, it came out to be around $296.00 USD! That seemed a bit high to me. I did purchase travel insurance, so I am hoping to find some alternate travel arrangements. Do you have any suggestions, or is this flight’s price normal? Thank you. Maria

Flights are the most expensive in August so yes, that sounds about right. Ferry rates (for travel in August) will be much cheaper than flying.

Hi Santorini Dave, We are hoping to go from Rhodes to Santorini on an overnight ferry on thurs September 21st, but we saw that the ferry only runs a few times a week and I’m not sure on what days and times since the ferry schedules have not been released yet. We are also open to going by high speed ferry we just don’t want to go on a slow one unless its overnight since I read that it can take 14hrs. We are nervous to book nonrefundable hotels on either side in Rhodes and Santorini without knowing we can get there when we were hoping to. Any advice? Do you think there are usually ferries on thursdays that time of year? Do you know how far in advance the ferry schedules are posted? Thank you so much for your guidance and your great site! Asia Thorpe

There will likely be an overnight ferry in September from Rhodes to Ferry. 50/50 at best whether it will fall on the day you need. There are many flights from Rhodes to Athens and Athens to Santorini so you could wait to see what the ferry schedule looks like then book flights if it doesn’t work out. (I’d probably just book the flights now so you get a quick efficient connection in Athens thus making the journey fast and painless.)

Hello, we are flying into Athens on the morning on June 26 via Air Canada. I plan to purchase plane tickets to get to Santorini. How much time would you say is needed between getting off the plane in Athens to then catch your flight to Santorini. Also, what airlines do you recommend using to get to Santorini (Aegean Airlines ?) I am hoping to pay about $120.00 or so round trip to get back and forth – would you agree this is a reasonable rate I should be able to find. Thank You Michele Gottorff

I would be comfortable with a stopover of longer than 2.5 hours in Athens. There are no guarantees, of course, but anything over that and you should be fine. If you book early enough then you should be able to find a Santorini flight for less than $120.

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Santorini Travel Guide: Things To Do in Santorini, Greece

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

14 Things To Do in Santorini

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

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

1. Wander the streets of Oia

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

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

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

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

2. Oia’s unforgettable sunset

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

See the best hotels in Oia

3. Discover Fira in Santorini

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

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

Firostefani

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

Hotels in Santorini 😴

4. Hike from Fira to Oia

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

More Greece: Visit Milos Island with its paradise beaches

5. Imerovigli

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

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

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

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

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

Here are all your hotel options in Santorini.

7. Explore the island by ATV or motorcycle

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

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

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

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Prices for renting an ATV/Quad or Motorcycle on Santorini

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

8. Visit villages

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

Megalochori 

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

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

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

9. Visit Red Beach

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

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

10. Go on a wine tour  

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

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

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

11. Perissa Beach

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

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

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

12. Archeological sites in Santorini

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

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

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

Book an archeological tour on the island here.

13. Ammoudi Bay

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

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

14. Santorini Volcano and Hot Springs

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

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

Where to eat

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

Our favorite restaurants in Santorini were:

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

Where to stay on Santorini

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

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

How to visit Santorini

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

Getting to Santorini

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

Check the ferry tickets and prices here .

Santorini Airport

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

Getting around Santorini

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

Santorini car rental

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

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

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

Public transport in Santorini

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

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

ATV or Motorbike rental

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

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

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

Your Budget for Santorini

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

Costs of Traveling in Santorini

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

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

Best Time to Visit Santorini

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

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

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Renting a car in greece in 2024: all you need to know, 9 best things to do in paros, greece .

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

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

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

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Visit Santorini, Greece

• Accommodation
• Things to do

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

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

Things to see and do in Santorini

Akrotiri, long-lost ancient city.

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

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

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

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

Fira, whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches

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

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

Hilltop town of Oia

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

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

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

Santorini’s other villages

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

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

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

Wine and vineyards

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

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

Volcanic Santorini

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

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

Best time to visit Santorini

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

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

• 617-223-4521 617-223-4777
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Suggested itineraries featuring Santorini

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

Romantic Italy & Greece

13 days from $15,160pp

Luxury Greek honeymoon

9 days from $8,370pp

Athens & the Greek Islands tour

12 days from $9,895pp

Map of Santorini

Places & hotels on the map, places near santorini.

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

Photos of Santorini

Accommodation choices for Santorini

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

Andronis Concept Wellness Resort

Santorini Secret Suites & Spa

Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection Santorini

Chromata Hotel

Belvedere Suites

Ideas for experiencing santorini.

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

Santorini wineries

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

Hike Fira to Oia

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

Santorini private boat trip

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

• Catamaran cruises TOP
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• Hotels with Private Pool TOP
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• 1. Watch the Sunset
• 2. Join a Catamaran Cruise
• 3. Walk on the Caldera
• 4. Visit Volcano and Hot Springs
• 5. Swim in the Black Beach
• 6. Visit Red Beach
• 7. Delish Dinner at Ammoudi
• 8. Visit a Winery on Caldera
• 9. Visit the Charming Prophet Elias Monastery
• 10. Visit Akrotiri Excavations
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• First time in Santorini
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• Fly over Fira
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Travel Guides

Traveler information, how to get to santorini.

• How to get to Santorini

Santorini is one of the most famous and heavenly existence islands in the world! A small in extent island, but rich in tangible goods and authentic beauty. It belongs in the southern part of the Aegean Sea in Greece, one of the graphical and picturesque Cyclades islands . To reach Santorini Island, it is convenient to fly from Athens , the capital of Greece, which is well-connected to the USA, the UK, and Canada by direct flights with several international companies. The three-letter code for Athens International Airport is ATH, while the code for Santorini Airport is JTR.

Santorini is one of the world’s islands whose summer holiday season usually starts at the beginning of March and ends at the beginning of November, due to its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage! For this reason, in the summer period, you can also fly directly to Santorini from various European countries, including Paris, London, Prague, Amsterdam, Milan, Rome, Frankfurt, and Naples via charter flights. However, if these charter flights are not available on your desired travel dates, you may need to fly to Santorini through Athens.

How to get to Santorini from Athens

There are two options to reach Santorini Island from Athens, the capital of Greece. One is by airplane through Athens International Airport "Eleftherios Venizelos" and the other is by ferryboat from Piraeus Port. There are also connections between Santorini and other Greek islands, which gives you the opportunity to visit the island and admire all the must-see stunning places!

Although, the quickest and most direct way is by airplane, taking approximately 40 minutes and tickets can be purchased ahead of time. Nevertheless, this option is more expensive than taking the ferryboat. The National Airport of Santorini is situated in the village of Kamari, only 5 kilometers away from the main Town of Fira. To reach Fira Town from the airport, one can either take a taxi or a bus that departs from the airport station. Furthermore, from the capital, there are connections to other settlements.

From the port of Piraeus in Athens, which is connected to the airport by a bus line, you can take the ferryboat which takes 8 hours, or the High-Speed ferry where the trip lasts about 5 hours and is a little more expensive. The departures are frequent and the journey is enjoyable as the ferries have comfortable areas with TVs, restaurants, and cafes, and decks from where you can relish the Aegean Sea and gaze the breathtaking view of the caldera as you reach Santorini. Athinios is the main port of Santorini and lies approximately 10 kilometers away from Fira. You can always find a bus from the port to the capital or you can take a taxi for a more convenient transfer. Lastly, along with the port, there are car and motorbike rental services.

Santorini's connectivity with other popular islands

Since Santorini is one of the most popular islands in Greece, many ferries are available to connect the island with other islands in Greece.

Commuting between Santorini and Mykonos can be done using daily ferries and speedboats provided by SeaJets . Daily ferries from Heraklion Port by Minoan Lines make it easy to travel to Santorini from Crete as well, and vice versa!

Daily ferries by Blue Star Ferries also help you reach Santorini from Paros or Naxos and the other way around. Moreover, Hellenic Seaways and SeaJets also offer daily ferries with high-speed boats to help you commute between Santorini and Ios.

Blue Star ferries travel between Santorini and Rhodes twice a week. Usually, it is the Blue Star 1 or Blue Star 2 boat that accommodates Santorini visitors. You can also take the weekly ferry ride to travel from Anafi to Santorini or vice versa.

Traveling by ferry to Santorini is always a fun and exciting experience. Generally, the SeaJets, Hellenic Seaways, and Minoan Lines ferries only work in the high season. In the Low season, a Blue Star ferry runs daily to take passengers from Santorini to Athens and vice versa.

While flying is the quickest and most comfortable option, direct flights to Santorini from other Greek islands are not always available. Occasionally, you may find direct flights during the summer season from Mykonos, Rhodes, or Heraklion in Crete to Santorini.

How to transport from the airport to Fira and other parts of Santorini

Hotel Pickup ‒ First of all, you should verify if the hotel of your preference provides a free pickup from the airport. Most hotels will probably charge you for this service but again you ought to consider this option as it constitutes the most convenient and untroubled way for your transfer.

Taxi ‒ The easiest and quickest way to get to Fira or any other settlement from the airport is by taxi. Taxi rates vary according to the season, and are increased during the night, between 01:00 and 05:00. Most of the time it is cheaper than the hotel pickup but remember to ask the taxi driver beforehand. Keep in mind that during the high tourist season, you may have to wait in a long queue and share a taxi with strangers. That’s the reason why hotel pickup remains the most convenient choice. Taxis are available 24/7 outside the arrivals gate at the airport.

Bus ‒ Taking the bus from the airport is definitely the most inexpensive option at any time of the year. There are some other factors that you should consider, though. Santorini has got a good local bus network but the schedules differ from summer to winter. There are frequent itineraries during the high season but the bus service doesn’t run on a regular basis during winter. You can always find the bus schedule outside the airport. Also, notice that if you want to go anywhere rather than the capital Fira, you will have to change buses at Fira as it is the main bus station.

Airport Transfer ‒ For those who do not wish to take a bus or a taxi from the airport, in order to avoid queues, delays, and troubles there are airport transfer services. You can choose between shared minivan and bus rides, and private transfers with a driver. Of course, these high-quality, reliable, and comfortable transfers cost more than the conventional ones. Make sure you find reasonable prices and book in advance.

How to Commute between the Ferry Port and Your Destination in Santorini

If you opt for the ferry, you will anchor at Athinios Port. From that point, it is convenient to go to any village you prefer!

Regardless of the time you arrive at Athinios Port, you will find a bus that can take you to Fira Town in approximately 20 minutes. The buses in Santorini are all equipped with air-conditioning, well-maintained, and spacious! However, if your destination is not Fira, you must first go there and then take another bus to reach your desired location. Buses in Fira depart for Athinios Port one hour before a ferryboat leaves.

You will easily find a taxi waiting at the ferry port if you arrive in the daytime. However, you should consider arranging a ride in advance if your arrival is scheduled for the night. You will reach Fira from the port in 10-15 minutes by taxi. Please note that it can be challenging to find a taxi to go to the port. This is why people prefer taking a bus.

You must check if your hotel offers transportation service from the ferry port to the hotel. It might be free or it may cost the same as a taxi or perhaps a bit more than that. Alternatively, you can book a reliable shuttle service with us for highly affordable prices and make the most of your journey!

You can roam around in a rental car as well. It’s better to take a bus, taxi, or use a hotel transfer service to reach Fira or Oia from the ferry port before taking a rental car.

In case you travel by Santorini cruise, you will be accommodated in a boat to reach the Old Port, which is located right below Fira village.

Getting Around in Santorini

After arriving in Santorini, you have multiple options for getting around on the island and reaching your destination, including using the hotel’s pickup service or taking a taxi, bus, or airport transfer.

Explore Santorini with the highest rated Tours and Activities

Our picks will help you make the most of your visit to santorini.

What to do in Santorini

Discover the most popular sights, places and activities in santorini, hand-picked hotels for you, browse through our hotel lists, perfectly crafted to suit your interests and budget, santorini travel guides, discover santorini island with our travel guides, aerial view of santorini's caldera, suggested hotels & villas in santorini, from budget-friendly suites and villas to 5-star hotels - there's something here for everyone.

Experience Santorini your way with our FREE personalized trip planner ! Just enter your travel dates and style, and you'll get instantly a custom itinerary, tailored to your desires!

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Our travel experts from santorini will be more than glad to help you select the right hotel and find the best experiences on this heavenly greek island.

We’re Santorini’s leading marketplace to explore and book unforgettable travel experiences. Santorini View is operated by Atlantis Software E-Services, a reliable travel agency licensed by the Greek National Tourism Organization with registry number ΜΗ.Τ.Ε. 0206E70000659501.

We offer top-quality , personalized tours and activities tailored to our guests' preferences and interests, with invaluable advice from our team of local experts. Our goal is to ensure that travellers, have the best possible experience in Santorini with access to the island's finest offerings.

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Plan your trip

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

Updated On: April 26, 2023

Written By: Pavlos Inglesis

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

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

BEST HOTEL IN SANTORINI: San Antonio

BUT ALSO CHECK:

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

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

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

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

Get my secrets for Greece and Santorini in your email!

Keep reading…

VERY IMPORTANT TO KNOW :

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

RECOMMENDED WEBSITES FOR GREECE:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. What is Santorini?

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

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

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

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

2. Where is Santorini?

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

3. Where To Stay in Santorini ?

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

You literally have 2 options:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

These are the  Top 20 Most Luxurious Hotels of Santorini.

These are the  10 Best Hotels in Oia.

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

None of these towns are close to the sea though.

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

But no access to a beach unfortunately.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. When Is The Best Time to Visit Santorini ?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Remember: it’s still Santorini!

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

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

Read Also:  The Best Time To Visit Santorini

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. How To Get To Santorini ?

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

Read Also:   How to Get From Athens to Santorini

Read Also:   How To Get From Athens to Mykonos

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

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

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

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

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

• Best Website to Book Ferry Boat tickets:  Ferryhopper

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

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

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

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

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

7. Are There Any Direct Flights to Santorini ?

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

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

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

So, basically your options are:

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

8. What Is The Caldera?

Santorini  is a volcanic island.

To be more precise it is an active volcano!

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

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

Here is an amazing video showing what happened:

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

• Firostefani

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

9. How Many Days Should You Spend in Santorini?

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

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

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

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

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

Is a Day Trip from Athens to Santorini possible?

Yes, it is.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Santorini or Mykonos ?

This is a dilemma that any people have.

They are both amazing islands but:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can also read my detailed comparison:  Mykonos or Santorini

Read Also:  How To Get From Santorini to Mykonos

So, to sum it up:

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

11. Best Greek Islands Near Santorini

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

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

Read Also:  Best Greek Islands to Visit from Santorini

These are the greek islands you can visit from Santorini:

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Best Sunset Views in Santorini

Santorini’s  sunset are famous all over the world.

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

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

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

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

13. How To Rent A Quad in Santorini ?

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

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

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

14. Money in Santorini. Do I Need Cash ?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read Also:  How To Get Around in Santorini

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

16. How To Rent A Car in Santorini ?

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

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

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

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

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

17. What Are The Best Boat Tours in Santorini ?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

These are the  best wine tours  of the island:

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

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

Read Also Our Detailed Guide:  Best Wineries of Santorini

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

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

20. Shopping in Santorini. Any good?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Best Family Hotels in Santorini are:

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

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

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

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TOP RATED HOTELS IN:

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

TOP RATED VILLAS IN:

Oia:  Anemi House

Fira:  Anteliz Villa

Kamari:  Eolia Villa

Pyrgos:  Sensation Villa

Akrotiri:  Cavo Ventus

Firostefani:  Villa Aura

Imerovigli:  Grace Villa

BEST THINGS TO DO IN SANTORINI:

🌄 Sunset Cruise with Meals and Drinks

🍷 Half-Day Wine Adventure Tour

🥾 Hike the path from Fira to Oia

ALL AVAILABLE FERRIES TO GREEK ISLANDS:

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

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

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TOP THINGS TO DO In SANTORINI, Greece in 2024

Eleni Gimouki Last Updated: October 26, 2023

Santorini is certainly one of the most visited places in the world. Every year, millions of people travel to the Greek island in order to admire the popular sunset. However, there are several great things to do in Santorini. Therefore, in this article, you are going to read all the must-see and must-do things on the island.

Pro Tip:  Bookmarks are the key to organizing a great trip. So, bookmark this post in a “Greece” folder in your browser. This way you can circle back to it while you are traveling. 

Best 11 Things To Do In Santorini

People all over the world know Santorini. Many of them have also visited at least once. Above all, Santorini is really popular for its sunsets and the breathtaking scenery of the caldera. Once you arrive at the island, you feel a unique sentiment. By the time the ship approaches the port, you know that you are going to have the most unforgettable holiday in your life.

11. Ancient Thira

Ancient Thira is located in a village named Mesa Vouno. In ancient Thira, you will find the remains of the ancient settlement from the time of the Dorians and the later Hellenistic Period. Visiting this archaeological site is the ideal choice of spending a day of your holiday especially if you love ancient history.

Moreover, this place offers a wonderful panoramic view while the landscape is really picturesque. Finally, after visiting Ancient Thira, you can easily drive to Kamari beach where you can spend the rest of your day swimming in the sea or relaxing at a cafe.

10. Dinner At Ammoudi Bay

Ammoudi Bay is a small and traditional port where you can find several little shops and taverns. More specifically, is the famous port of Oia village that is encircled by the impressive red cliffs.You can go down from Oia on foot. Above all, it is a wonderful place to enjoy a traditional dinner tasting fresh fish dishes.

Further, if you prefer to visit Ammoudi Bay in the morning, then you have to know that there is a really beautiful beach where you can spend your daytime. That is to say, you will love the crystal clear seawater and the sandy beach.

9. Ancient Site Of Akrotiri

One of the most well-known attractions in Santorini is the Ancient Site of Akrotiri. The ancient settlement of Akrotiri was particularly impressive for various reasons. To clarify, the large area, the excellent urban organization, the sewerage network, the ornate high-rise buildings, and rich furniture and household items testify to its great development.

Moreover, after visiting the ancient site of Akrotiri, remember to spend some time admiring the view of the Aegean sea. Finally, in Akrotiri, there is also a beach where you can spend some of your time relaxing on the sunbeds under the umbrellas.

8. A Daytrip To Thirasia

While we know so many things about Santorini, Thirasia is almost unknown. Thirasia is a small island opposite Santorini. It is really beautiful and traditional. That is to say, there aren’t many things to do, but it worths a visit. You go there by boat. So, you can organize a daily trip to Thirasia.

Most important, in Thirasia, you will have the chance to enjoy the traditional side of Greece. You can explore this picturesque village and also try some really tasty fish dishes. So, if you have enough time, choose to visit this unique place.

7. Fira By Night

If you visit Santorini, you will certainly enjoy Fira which is the center of the island. Fira is up on the caldera. In other words, everyone who visits it is amazed by the breathtaking view. From this point, you can admire the Aegean sea as well as the volcano of Santorini.

As Fira is the center of Santorini, this means that here is the nightlife. So, in Fira, of course, you will enjoy your breakfast at the wonderful cafes in the morning, but, most important, you will have fun at night. That is to say, there are some nightclubs where you can dance until the next morning and several bars if you need to spend a more luxury night in front of the wonderful scenery.

6. Red Beach

A really famous beach in Santorini is the Red beach. It is called “Red” because of the red cliffs all around. In other words, the scenery looks like a lunar landscape. Here, you will certainly love the crystal clear seawater.

Further, what you need to know is that it is better to wear a pair of sport shoes in order to reach the beach. Because of this landscape, it may be a little difficult or tiring at some points to arrive at the beach. However, once you dive in the breezy water, you will live a unique experience.

5. Wine Tasting

Apart from the amazing sunset and the volcano, Santorini is also popular for its wine. Wine production is estimated to begin 3,000 years ago. So, when you visit Santorini, remember to try the awarded Vinsanto wine. Moreover, you can also try some Vinsanto liqueur. Wine tasting is certainly one of the top things to do in Santorini.

The most exciting thing is that you have the chance to organize a Wine Tasting Tour in Santorini. In other words, not only you may try some of the best Greek wines, but you also have the chance to get to know all the processes concerning wine production.

Further Information

4. Staying At A Luxury Hotel

In Santorini, you will certainly find numerous luxury hotels almost all around the island. Most importantly, staying at a luxury hotel is one of the best things to do in Santorini. In other words, luxury hotels here offer a number of amenities in order your holidays to be unforgettable.

For example, most of these hotels offer an amazing view of the Aegean sea and the volcano. Moreover, you may have the opportunity to book a room with a private hot tub or a swimming pool on your veranda. So, staying at a luxury hotel in Santorini is a unique experience.

Check out the article I wrote on the Best Luxury Hotels In Santorini !

3. Trip To Volcano

One of the most wonderful attractions in Santorini is certainly the volcano. Besides, this volcano is responsible for the island’s beauty. So, you can’t leave Santorini without visiting Nea Kameni – this is actually the name of the volcano. Therefore, you can organize a daily trip there.

In other words, a trip to Nea Kameni can be a boat tour around the volcano or a daily sailing cruise. Further, you can walk and see up close this unique landscape. Finally, there are some hot springs where you can stay for a while. That is to say, you will have the opportunity to enjoy natural spa.

2. Black Beach In Perissa

Once you visit Santorini, you must spend at least a day of your holidays in Black beach in Perissa village. It is a long beach with black sand in the southeast side of the island. Its sand is really black because of the volcano and the volcanic soil, and this makes it really impressive.

Moreover, in Black beach you will find sunbeds and umbrellas in order to have a great and relaxing time. Further, you need to know that the water is cold enough and the sea deep. It is certainly the ideal choice id you love swimming. Finally, you will find a lot of taverns so that you can have your lunch break.

1. Sunset At Oia

At the top of the list couldn’t be other than the sunset of Santorini. That is to say, we all know Santorini for its breathtaking sunset. This is certainly one of the top things to do in Santorini. So, the first thing that you may do when arriving is to admire the sunset from Oia village.

Oia is a picturesque but cosmopolitan village. There, there is a castle from which you can admire this unique spectacle. To clarify, it won’t be just “another one sunset”. However, you will feel that you could really touch the sun.

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How to get around Santorini: hills, volcanoes and cliffs, oh my

Oct 3, 2021 • 5 min read

Getting around Santorini needn't be a headache © LWA / Dann Tardif / Getty Images

Getting around Santorini is easy. The island’s small size means distances and journey times are short and options are many. A comprehensive bus network runs during the tourist season with frequent service and cheap fares. Taxis are plentiful and affordable.

You can hire a motorbike or car for maximum flexibility, although parking the latter can be a challenge in July and August. A few public boats serve the surrounding islands or you can get a cheap ride on a small boat (caïque) to scenically shuttle along the shore between beaches. There’s even a cable car serving the main town of Fira .

A comprehensive network of buses covers Santorini. Run by the national collective KTEL , services run throughout the day and you can get to most important places on the island, including the airport, for about €2 ($2.30; fares vary slightly depending on the distance of the trip). Services are reasonably frequent, e.g. from the main town of Fira to the beach town of Kamari buses run every 30 minutes throughout the day, with last buses late in the evening. Travel times are short.

Incongruently for an island where journeys are measured in minutes, the buses are those typically found on long-distance coach services complete with narrow entry doors. This only compounds the crush of riders in summer when demand easily outstrips the supply of seats and you may have to wait a while for your turn.

Buses meet all ferries in the port of Athinios, but service down to the port is sporadic, so you’ll need to check schedules in advance of your boat.

It’s simple to rent a car on Santorini, either from a well-known brand name or from one of dozens of local vendors. Arrange in advance or prepare to bargain a bit on arrival.

It may be easiest to hire a car through your accommodation, although cars can be a hot commodity in summer when rates soar with the temps.

Note that a car can give you full freedom to explore Santorini but there are drawbacks, especially in summer. The relatively short drives along the island’s diminutive road network can be harrowing due to narrow lanes, cliffside plunges and incessant peak season traffic. Parking is also stressful in Fira and at the beaches; expect hefty fines if you decide to leave your car in an unapproved spot.

A good strategy is to rent a car for just a day or two of exploration, thus saving yourself from the attendant hassles other times.

Making the steep climb back up to Fira after a languid day at the beach is reason enough to rent a motorbike. Buzzing about Santorini on two wheels is an excellent alternative to driving a car as the narrow roads are less of an issue and parking is much easier. It’s very easy to rent a motorbike or scooter but there is an important caveat for non-EU residents – you’ll need a motorcycle or motorbike license valid in your home country.

Steep twisting roads and very narrow lanes with myriad blind curves are just some of the challenges to riding a bike on Santorini. Add in drivers maniacally speeding to make up for time spent stalled in traffic and the challenges multiply. Still you can easily rent a bike on the island from multiple sources. Ask about e-bikes, which are becoming more available on the island, unless the many hills fit into your training scheme for the Tour de France.

Taxis are plentiful on Santorini. You’ll find them at the airport, the ferry port and at a taxi stand near the main bus stop in Fira. Fares are reasonable: from the port in Athinios up to sprawl of accommodation around Fira is €10-€15 ($12-18). Luggage may cost a bit more. Most places to stay will also pick you up at the ferry port for about €10 ($12) if you arrange it in advance.

You can easily call for a taxi or you can use the Uber app. If taking a taxi to spend a day at a beach, you can ask the driver about a pickup later in the day.

Regular boats make the short run to the charming island of Thirasia, just across from the little waterfront village of Ammoudi at the north end of the main island. The fare is €5 ($6). There is less-frequent service from the main port of Athinios, check schedules in advance.

Excursion boats will take you to the uninhabited volcanic islets in the middle of the caldera and may include a stop in Thirasia as well. Such trips start at about €30 ($35) and are heavily marketed around Santorini. Other possibilities include day trips to various beaches, which can be a fine (and very scenic) way to beat the crowds and traffic on the sinuous roads across the hills.

Small boats (caïques) can be hired from busier beaches to reach smaller and inaccessible ones for a modest fee.

Just like in the Alps, but with endless cerulean water-views replacing snowy vistas, a cable car system zips up and down the steep mountainside between the main town of Fira and the tiny port village of Fira Skala some 400m (1300ft) below. Service is frequent in summer when cruise ships dock here, less so other times. The fare is €6 ($7).

Walking on Santorini is more an excuse for a vigorous activity than a legitimate means to get around. The steep hills and lack of footpaths are just some of the challenges. For example, the footpath from the cruise ship docks at Fira Skala up to Fira has over 600 steps. A notable exception are the walks between popular beaches such as those in and around Perissa.

One popular route, although it’s more of an excursion than a practical jaunt, is the 10km-route (6 miles) from Fira to Oia.

Accessible transportation in Santorini

Accessible transportation is very limited on Santorini. The public buses do not have wheelchair access nor do the taxis. Steep stone stairs abound and crowds jam village walkways in summer. For more information on accessible travel, see the Lonely Planet guide to accessible travel , a free download.

You may also like: Why now is the time to visit Santorini Paradise found: the best places to visit in Santorini Santorini's most breathtaking beaches

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Greek Island Hopping | Greece Travel Ideas | Bicycle Touring

How to get around Santorini – Everything you need to know

In this guide on getting around in Santorini, I'll cover all the transport options such as using the buses, hiring a car, using an ATV and taking an organized bus tour. 

Choosing the best way to see Santorini

There are many ways to explore Santorini, from renting a car for self-guided exploration to catching a bus tour that takes you through the island's most popular attractions during the day or at night.

Personally, I think that if you have more than a couple of days on the island, driving around Santorini is the best way to go. There's plenty of places to hire vehicles, and it gives you the ultimate flexibility.

Find car rentals in Santorini at: Discover Cars

If you don't feel like renting a car in Santorini, then using the Ktel bus service to travel between places like Fira and Oia or to get to the coastal resorts is a cheap way to see the island.

This travel guide to getting around Santorini gives you all the information you need to work out which method might be best for you.

By the way, if you came here looking how to get from Santorini airport to your hotel, check this out instead:

• Santorini Airport Transport Guide
• How to get from Santorini airport to Fira
• How to get from Santorini airport to Oia

Santorini Transportation Options

These are the basic options and most popular choices available to most travelers looking at getting around in Santorini:

Getting around Santorini by car (best option)

Getting around santorini by scooter/quad/atv, getting around santorini by bus, getting around santorini by taxi, getting around santorini on an organized tour, getting around santorini by foot.

First though, it might be a good idea to take a closer look at Santorini and then ask yourself a few questions.

How big is Santorini?

Santorini is a relatively small Greek island, and it is about 16km long and about 12km at its widest area. The total area is around 76.19 km². Driving from one end to the other takes around 40 minutes. 

The two main towns of Oia and Fira will be where most tourists spend their time, especially on stays of just a night or two. While you can actually hike between Fira and Oia town (and it's very rewarding!), you'd want to take a bus or taxi back on the return journey.

Do you need a car in Santorini? – If you're staying for a night or two, you probably don't need to consider hiring a vehicle in Santorini at all.

Are you spending longer in Santorini?

If you're staying longer than a couple of nights, you'll want to see more of the island. It's at this point a hire vehicle or other transportation options start to make a little more sense.

For example, the ancient site of Akrotiri is at the south of the island, and Santorini's best beaches are located to the east.

In addition there's some very interesting villages in the middle. You can't really walk to these from Fira or Oia, so you'll need to use some form of transport.

If you do decide to get a car rental, you also have more flexibility on where to stay in Santorini .

Renting a car is the best way to travel in Santorini. It's not only fun driving somewhere new, but it also allows you to visit some of the island's less touristy areas and experience the true essence of this beautiful island.

When you drive around Santorini, you'll also get to spend exactly as long as you want in each place without worrying about bus timetables.

-Rent a car in Santorini

The ferry port in Santorini has a number of car rental businesses. Many car hire companies will also have pickup locations in Fira, Oia, or the airport, and there are perhaps a dozen companies from which to rent a car in Santorini Greece.

If you plan to travel in high season (July/August/September), I'd suggest reserving one well in advance of time. I recommend Discover Cars for this.

-Driving in Santorini

The roads are generally very good with only one or two smaller roads being gravel surfaces. When compared to other parts of Greece, driving around Santorini is relatively tame.

-Parking in Santorini

Parking can be a bit of an issue in Fira and Oia, so I suggest that you take advantage of accommodation on the cheaper side of the island near Perissa where you can more easily park closer to your accommodation at the end of the day.

I highly recommend Booking as they have more rooms, hotels, apartments and villas available in Santorini than AirBnB.

– You'll have a car to explore the island with.

– You'll be able to visit some of the less touristy parts of Santorini.

– You can plan your own itinerary and stay as long or short in each place you want without worrying about bus timetables.

– It's more expensive than other options

If you've never hired a car in Greece before, read my tips on renting a car in Greece .

Scooters, quads, and ATVs are also popular ways to get around the island using your own means. The reason I don't think they are as optimal as hiring a car, is that they are slightly more dangerous, and you end up exposing yourself to the sun for many hours per day.

If you have a tendency to get sunburn, you might want to think twice about heading out on a quad on day one when you visit Santorini!

Quad bikes and ATVs cost almost as the same a a car rental, and sometimes more in August. Scooters are more budget friendly.

– You'll get to see more of the island.

– They can be slightly less expensive than cars.

– Easier to drive on the narrow roads of Santorini

– It's more dangerous than other options.

– You're exposed to the sun for many hours per day, which can lead to sunburns if you have a tendency towards that

– Limited availability in peak season

Related: Pros and cons of traveling by car

If you want to get around Santorini without a car, the public buses might be a good option.

Buses in Santorini are a cheap and easy way to move around the island. Tickets prices for local bus trips in Santorini range from 1.60 Euro to 2.20 Euro depending on the start and end point. You can reach and then explore all the big towns and main attractions in Santorini by bus.

If you're travel itinerary is a simple one involving just a couple of bus trips in Santorini per day, then it can be a viable way to get around the island. 

When traveling in the off-season, the buses are an excellent way to get from place to place in Santorini. During my last visit to Santorini in March 2023, I used the buses extensively to get to places like Kamari, Perissa and the airport.

Keep in mind that in peak months such as July and August, the buses may be too full to get on, meaning you may end up waiting around for the next one sometimes.

Main Bus Station in Santorini

The main bus station of Santorini is located in the island's capital Fira. All journeys begin and end in at Fira bus station, and you may need to get connecting buses depending on which destinations you want to visit.

Bus tickets for trips in Santorini are bough onboard the bus, even when the bus leaves Fira main station. A ticket seller will walk down the aisle selling the tickets as the bus leaves.

Allegedly, they are supposed to have tap and pay machines so you can use your card – I've yet to see one in action on a Santorini bus! So, make sure you have cash to buy the bus ticket.

The bus company that runs services on Santorini is called KTEL. KTEL buses have a website where you can see schedules here: Ktel Santorini .  Also, ask your hotel for a bus schedule or advise on getting around Santorini by bus.

– Cheapest way to get around Santorini and easy to use.

– Buses go to all the big towns and main attractions in Santorini.

– It's a viable option for simple itineraries with just a couple of bus trips per day.

– In peak months, buses may be too full to get on, meaning you might wait around sometimes.

– Slow service (if you take the bus, you'll be waiting in line).

In my opinion, taxis in Santorini do have their uses in some circumstances. For example, taking a taxi from the airport to your Santorini hotel can make sense as it means you don't have to crowd on to a bus.

The same applies to taking a taxi from the Santorini ferry port to your hotel. Outside of this though, Santorini taxi services start to get a little expensive.

The reason, is that there are only a limited number of taxis on the island. This means that even short trips by taxi in Santorini involve long waits for a ride and an expensive taxi fare.

If you want to pre-book a taxi in Santorini, I recommend using Welcome .

-Taxi is a quick and easy way to get from one place to another.

-You can pre-book taxis (but there is no UBER in Santorini)

-It's the best option if you have lots of luggage.

-The cost of taxis can add up quickly over time, especially if you're using them often during your stay on Santorini.

Related: Santorini ferry port to Fira

If you don't want the hassle of driving yourself around Santorini, perhaps an organized tour might be a better fit. You'll get to see a lot of the island depending on the itinerary, and you'll also have the benefit of a tour guide explaining everything along the way.

The most popular organized bus tour in Santorini is the Traditional Santorini Sightseeing Bus Tour with Oia Sunset . During the day, you can explore the Akrotiri excavation site, see the Red Beach, taste the island’s distinctive wines and marvel at a spectacular Oia sunset.

There are other tours available such as photography, wine tours , and bicycle tours in Santorini. Check out Get Your Guide and Viator to see which ones take your fancy!

– You'll get to see a lot of the island depending on the itinerary.

– You'll have a tour guide explaining everything along the way.

– Ideal for solo travelers who will find it the most cost effective

– Great for people who don't want to hire a vehicle in Santorini

– It's not as flexible as other options, meaning you can't explore Santorini on your own terms at all times.

– It's more costly if you are a group of 2 or 3 people when compared to hiring a car.

The two main towns of Fira and Oia in Santorini are largely traffic free, which means that the only way you'll be getting around them is on foot. As they are built on the beautiful caldera, keep in mind there may be more steps and stairs than you are accustomed to!

There is also a very nice hiking route from Fira to Oia which follows the Santorini caldera. This scenic walk takes about 3-4 hours, and there's some lovely views and stops along the way.

Unlike other Cycladic islands, Santorini does not have an extensive network of dedicated hiking trails, but does have small local tracks to some places of interest.

Walking around Santorini in the heat of summer is tougher than you might imagine. Wear light, loose fitting clothes, a hat, and plenty of sunblock!

There are a number of hiking trails on Santorini, connecting the main places of interest. Another nice walk to try, is the hike from Kamari to Ancient Thera and then on to Perissa .

Onward Travel

As Santorini is located in the Cyclades islands of Greece , you'll need to leave the island either by ferry or flight. 

Many people find that island hopping from Santorini is a fun way to see more of the neighbouring islands. You can easily book ferry tickets for onwards travel at: Ferryhopper

FAQ About Getting Around in Santorini Greece

Some of the most commonly asked questions about getting around the small island of Santorini include:

Are taxis in Santorini expensive?

There are just 25 taxis on the entire island of Santorini. When you plan a trip with your taxi, it is important to negotiate the price because prices are not set by meters. Taxi fares from the Santorini airport are 35€ to 40€ for Oia, 20€-30€ for Fira. Expect to pay out 30 Euros per ride to other places.

Is it worth renting a car in Santorini?

If you are staying more than a couple of days, you will get the most out of Santorini if you rent a car because then you can go where and when you want to and your own pace.

Can you get around Santorini without a car?

It is possible to get around Santorini without a car, but it is the most expensive way to do so. There are very few taxis on the island (there are 25) and they charge for a set fare, so it may be cheaper to take a bus ride if you want to explore and see more of the beaches.

Is there public transport on Santorini?

The main bus station is in Fira. All bus routes begin and end in Fira. If you can't get a bus directly to where you need to go, you would need to swap in Fira. Tickets must be purchased from your driver before departure. .

Is there Uber in Santorini?

No, there is no UBER in Santorini or any other ride sharing apps or companies. Your hotel may recommend a specific driver, and there are less than 30 taxis on the island.

Explore Santorini – Travel Guides

You might also want to take a look at these Santorini island travel guides, tips, and itineraries as they may help you plan your trip:

• Best time to go to Santorini
• How to get to Santorini
• Santorini in October
• Santorini in November
• Random facts about Santorini
• Best Santorini hotels with a sunset view
• How to book a Santorini hotel with breaking the bank
• One day Santorini itinerary
• Two day Santorini itinerary
• Three day Santorini itinerary
• Day Trips from Santorini
• Best Santorini tours and excursions
• Best boat tours in Santorini

I hope you found this Santorini travel guide on how to get around the island useful! If you have any questions, please leave a comment below.

1 thought on “How to get around Santorini – Everything you need to know”

Great info..direct and to the point. Thank you!

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