santorini coral travel

22 Best Santorini tours (2024 updated): Your go-to guide for the most unforgettable experiences on the island

First Impressions Santorini day tour

• Countryside private tour in Santorini 
• Thirassia day trip from Santorini 

Santorini catamaran tour

Santorini day cruise, santorini sunset cruise.

• Volcano and hot springs tour 

Fishing Tours

Scuba diving, caldera walking tour, panorama tour.

• Horse riding 
• Jeep tour 
• ATV tour 
• E-bike tour 

Wheelchair accessible tour

Helicopter sightseeing flights, unveil santorini’s vinicultural treasures, master santorini’s gastronomic traditions, learn santorini’s culinary secrets from anywhere.

• Curating your perfect Santorini experience

Capture the essence of Santorini through your lens

Embrace the ethereal beauty of santorini.

• Finding the best Santorini tour for you

How many days do you really need in Santorini?

Can i explore santorini on my own, is santorini catamaran worth it.

Embark on an extraordinary journey through the best Santorini tours and unlock a world of remarkable activities and things to do. This Greek gem offers a multitude of captivating tours that allow you to immerse yourself in its beauty, history, and flourishing culture. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, culinary delights, or wine-tasting experiences, Santorini has it all.

In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a journey through the best tours the island has to offer, ensuring that your time in Santorini is nothing less than extraordinary. From day tours to sea excursions and wine tasting, we will help you navigate the array of options, answering your questions and guiding you toward the most memorable adventures.

• Santorini private tours for an exclusive experience

From scenic coastal drives to whitewashed cave houses, vineyard visits and breathtaking sunsets, Santorini private tours offer a seamless blend of comfort, convenience, and discovery. Lose yourself in the beauty and allure of the island with the most suitable tour for you.

Embark on a journey to discover the best spots of this Cycladic gem with a private Santorini Day Tour . From the picturesque village of Oia to the ancient ruins of Akrotiri and the stunning black sand beaches of Perissa, the comprehensive tour showcases the diverse beauty of Santorini. 

With the guidance of knowledgeable local experts, delve into the island’s rich history, immerse yourself in its cultural heritage, and capture breathtaking moments along the way. Experience the enchantment of Santorini on a special day tour designed to create lasting memories.

Countryside private tour in Santorini 

Escape the bustling tourist areas and discover the idyllic landscape of the island with a Countryside Private Tour in Santorini . Discover the hidden gems like the villages of Megalochori and Pyrgos, where time seems to stand still. Engage with skilled artisans and witness the ancient art of pottery-making, a tradition preserved through generations. 

Witness the peaceful ambiance of the countryside, surrounded by traditional Cycladic architecture and panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. This private tour offers a glimpse of the island’s rich agricultural traditions and allows you to connect with the heart of Santorini.

Thirassia day trip from Santorini 

Indulge in a captivating adventure with a Thirassia Day Trip from Santorini . Take a scenic boat ride to the nearby island of Thirassia and immerse yourself in its traditional charm. Explore picturesque villages, hike to breathtaking viewpoints, and enjoy a delicious meal at a local taverna, savoring the flavors of authentic Greek cuisine. 

With its serene atmosphere and stunning vistas of the caldera, Thirassia is a must-visit. This private day trip allows you to escape the beaten path and uncover a hidden gem just a stone’s throw away from Santorini.

• The best Santorini boat tours and sea activities

With an array of captivating Santorini sailing tours and activities, you can explore the Aegean Sea’s splendor while creating lasting memories. From exhilarating catamaran cruises to thrilling boat tours, there’s an experience for every traveler seeking to discover the gems of Santorini’s coastline. 

Whether you’re basking in the warmth of the Mediterranean sun, marveling at volcanic formations, or diving into the refreshing waters, these sea tours offer a unique perspective of the island’s natural wonders.

Embark on a luxurious sailing experience with a Santorini catamaran tour . Cruise the azure waters, swim, snorkel, and savor a delicious onboard meal. Choose between a day cruise or a Santorini catamaran sunset cruise for relaxation, adventure, and unparalleled beauty.

Unveil hidden gems with a fascinating Santorini day cruise . Explore secluded coves, picturesque bays, and pristine beaches accessible only by boat. Dive into the azure waters for a swim, soak in the Mediterranean sun on the deck, and enjoy a traditional Greek barbecue prepared onboard. With the experienced crew guiding the way, you will have the opportunity to relax, snorkel, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Santorini.

Experience the magic of a Santorini sunset on the Santorini sunset cruise . Set sail in the late afternoon and witness the island’s famous sunset from the best vantage point – the sea.  As the sun dips below the horizon, casting its golden hues across the caldera, you will be captivated by the breathtaking scenery. Sip on a glass of local wine or champagne, savor delicious appetizers, and bask in the romantic ambiance created by the fading daylight. 

Volcano and hot springs tour 

Embark on a thrilling adventure to the volcanic islands of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni with a Santorini volcano and hot springs tour . Trek up the volcanic slopes and explore the otherworldly landscapes created by past eruptions. Witness the steam rising from the crater and feel the vibrant energy of the active volcano. Afterward, take a dip in the therapeutic hot springs known for their rejuvenating properties.

Join a semi-private or private Santorini fishing tour  for an authentic experience. Sail alongside experienced fishermen, learn their techniques, and try your hand at catching local fish species. Whether you are an experienced angler or a novice, such tours provide a one-of-a-kind opportunity to connect with nature and engage in a traditional way of life.

Discover the treasures beneath the Aegean Sea with a scuba diving lesson. The Santorini dive center offers diving experiences suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced divers. Explore vibrant coral reefs, encounter colorful marine life, and marvel at the underwater rock formations unique to Santorini.

Are you ready for some thrill? Opting for a Santorini sea kayak tour means you can explore the island’s mesmerizing coastline up close. Paddle through azure waters, navigate sea caves, and discover hidden beaches accessible easily by kayak. With experienced guides leading the way, you will witness dramatic cliffs, volcanic formations, and breathtaking natural beauty.

The best Santorini tours on land 

Each of the following Santorini tours offers a different perspective of the island, allowing you to tailor your experience to your preferences and interests. Whether you are exploring on foot, on horseback, or through thrilling rides, Santorini’s land tours offer a captivating way to witness the island’s beauty.

Partake in an exciting Caldera walking tour and delve into the natural wonders of the island. Explore the stunning caldera cliffs, traverse ancient footpaths, and relish breathtaking panoramic views. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour offers an excellent opportunity to hike the path from Fira to Oia and find yourself lost in picturesque traditional villages.

Pass by the best villages on the island with an intimate Santorini panorama tour . Visit the picturesque Oia and Megalochori, which promise to enchant you with their exquisite architecture, blue-domed churches and alluring scenery. Then, head to Profitis Ilias Mountain to take in the majestic beauty that unfolds before you. To conclude your adventure, sample the mouthwatering local wines in an award-winning winery.

Horse riding 

Saddle up and embark on a Santorini horse riding adventure. Explore scenic trails, meander through vineyards, and admire the island’s stunning vistas. Feel the connection between horse and rider as you discover Santorini’s natural beauty.

Join an exhilarating Santorini Jeep tour across rugged terrains. Venture off the beaten path, navigate winding roads, and explore hidden corners of the island. Immerse yourself in the island’s beautiful landscapes, ancient sites, and panoramic views.

Experience the thrill of an ATV Santorini tour . Zoom along scenic coastal roads, traverse volcanic landscapes, and discover hidden treasures. Enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace while soaking in the island’s beauty.

E-bike tour 

Discover beautiful spots with an eco-friendly e-bike Santorini tour. Pedal effortlessly through charming villages, vineyards, and coastal paths. Such excursions are an exceptional way to witness the island’s history and culture, as they combine the joy of cycling with the exploration of fascinating landmarks and local traditions.

See the best the island has to offer with a Santorini wheelchair accessible private tour that requires no walking. From the quaint Firostefani and Oia villages to the famous Black Beach near Akrotiri and the highest peak, Profitis Ilias, this tour allows you to admire some of the most beautiful Santorini highlights while avoiding the steep paths!

Elevate your vacation experience with a Santorini helicopter sightseeing flight . Soar above the island and marvel at its iconic landmarks from a unique vantage point. Capture panoramic views of the caldera, cascading blue domes, and the azure Aegean Sea as you get a truly unforgettable perspective of their beauty.

• Indulge in culinary delights with Santorini wine and cooking tours

Santorini wine and cooking tours offer a chance to savor the rich flavors, aromas, and traditions that make the island’s cuisine so exceptional. Whether you wish to explore the vineyards and wineries or roll up your sleeves and learn to cook like a local, these tours promise a memorable and immersive culinary journey through Santorini’s gastronomic wonders.

Embark on the best wine tours in Santorini and unlock the secrets of the island’s renowned wine scene. You can find a variety of wine tours that take you to the island’s esteemed wineries and vineyards. Delight in sampling exquisite local wines, learn about the grape-growing techniques used and savor the flavors that define Santorini’s winemaking heritage on a private Santorini wine tasting tour.

Immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of the island through a Santorini cooking class experience. Get a hands-on cooking lesson where you learn to prepare world-renowned dishes using fresh local ingredients. From the iconic tomatokeftedes to mouthwatering fava dip and succulent seafood, discover the authentic flavors of Santorini and take home the skills to recreate these delectable dishes.

Even if you can’t travel to the island, you can still experience the island’s culinary delights with a live Santorini virtual cooking class . Connect virtually with expert chefs who will guide you through the process of preparing traditional Santorini dishes from the comfort of your own kitchen. Join this interactive and engaging online experience and discover from anywhere in the world what makes Greek cuisine so special.

When it comes to creating a personalized travel plan, opting for Santorini tailor-made tours is an ideal choice. Such tours are designed to cater to your specific interests, preferences, and schedule, allowing you to explore the island at your own pace and delve deeper into the aspects that captivate you the most.

With the freedom to choose your destinations, attractions, and activities, these bespoke tours are perfect for those seeking flexibility. Whether you seek historical sites, natural wonders, culinary delights, or hidden gems, your expert guide will curate an itinerary that exceeds your expectations.

Immerse yourself in the charm of Oia’s streets, witness iconic blue-domed churches, and relish sunset vistas. Discover ancient marvels in Akrotiri and savor the island’s distinct wines through private winery tours. Custom private tours ensure every aspect of your journey is customized for you, whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or in a group.

Customize your itinerary, embrace the highlights that resonate with you, and uncover Santorini’s rich culture, history, and natural splendor. Let Santorini unfold according to your particular interests, ensuring a journey tailored exclusively to you.

• Collecting memories with Santorini photo tours

If you seek to immortalize your Santorini experience through stunning visuals, photo tours offer a perfect opportunity to capture the island’s beauty. Whether you are a professional photographer or simply a photography enthusiast, Santorini provides a picturesque backdrop that will leave you in awe.

A Santorini photo tour allows you to embark on a personalized journey guided by professional photographers who know the island intimately. They take you to the most scenic spots, hidden gems, and iconic landmarks, ensuring you capture the essence of Santorini in every frame. From the enchanting blue-domed churches to the breathtaking sunsets, you can document the island’s beauty from unique perspectives.

If you are looking for a truly extraordinary experience, consider a Flying Dress Photoshoot . This one-of-a-kind opportunity allows you to wear an elegant dress that billows gracefully in the wind as you pose against the stunning Santorini backdrop. The result is a series of ethereal images you will cherish for a lifetime.

From private excursions that unveil hidden gems to thrilling sea adventures, the island offers something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes as you embark on these carefully curated tours. 

Whether you have a few days or a week, make the most of your time on this magical island by indulging in the best Santorini day tours . Capture memories, savor unique flavors, and embrace the wonders it has to offer. Get ready for an unforgettable journey that will leave you with moments to treasure forever.

• FAQs about Santorini tours

The ideal duration for a Santorini visit is typically 3 to 5 days. This allows you to explore the island’s picturesque villages, relax on its iconic beaches, savor local cuisine, and appreciate its stunning sunsets. It strikes a balance between experiencing Santorini’s highlights and leisurely enjoyment.

Absolutely! The island is well-suited for independent travelers. You can easily navigate its villages, beaches, and attractions by renting a car or scooter or using public transportation. However, if you want to explore with the help of an expert guide and learn all the juicy information about the island, it is best to book a private or small group tour.

Definitely! Santorini catamaran cruises offer a unique perspective of the island, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and viewing the famous caldera and sunset. While they can be more expensive than other activities, the experience of cruising the Aegean Sea and enjoying the volcanic landscapes is a not-to-be-missed-experience.

• The best Santorini tours on land 

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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

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

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

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

Honestly, I get it.

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

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

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

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

Trip summary

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

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

Check availability for this cave house

Should you rent a car in Santorini?

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

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

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

Santorini Itinerary: 3 days in Santorini

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

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

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

Day 1. Oia, Pyrgos

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

Sunrise in Oia

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

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

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

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

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

Pyrgos, Santorni

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Back in Oia for Sunset

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

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

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

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

Visit Akrotiri, the ancient Minoan city

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

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

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

Akrotiri Lighthouse

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

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

Red Beach in Santorini (and safety considerations)

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

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

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

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

Vlychada Beach

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

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

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

Skaros Rock, Imerovigli

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

Firostefani

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

Dinner in Oia

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

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

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

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

Ancient Thera

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

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

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

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

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

Perissa, Black Sand Beach on Santorini

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

Santo Winery

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

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

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

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

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

Ammoudi Bay in Oia

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

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

Visit Santorini on a Budget

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

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

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

How to reach Santorini by plane or ferry

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

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

Where to go in Greece

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

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

About the author

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

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

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Greece , Travel · May 2, 2019

The Ultimate Santorini Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors

Santorini is an idyllic Aegean paradise that’s been enchanting travellers for centuries. This breathtakingly beautiful Greek island is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway or a family vacation. With pristine white-sanded beaches, rugged red-hued cliffs, and iconic cobalt-domed churches, it’s no wonder why this volcanic Greek island is a favourite spot for adventurers. Whether you’re planning your first ever trip to Santorini or your fifteenth, this guide will tell you everything you need to know for a relaxing and memorable stay. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive Santorini travel guide for the best tips and tricks to make your trip a success. From where to stay, to what to eat, to how to get around, this guide will arm you with the knowledge you need to plan a dream vacation in Santorini. So, get ready to pack your sunscreen and camera, and let’s go explore this magical and majestic destination.

What is Santorini Famous For?

Santorini is globally known for its cliff draping towns, and jaw-dropping sunsets that melt into the horizon. Their traditional Mediterranean food also deserves a mention. Expect freshly caught seafood, colourful greek-salads with mountains of creamy feta, gyros, fried cheese, pita, tzatziki, and rich lamb dishes. Yum! I’m not kidding when I say that the food alone is worth a trip to Greece.

Overall, Santorini is a place you HAVE to visit at least once in your lifetime. Since it’s a town built on top of a volcanic island, it is truly unlike anywhere else in the world. And I must add, pictures of this place don’t do it justice. Seeing Santorini in real life is breathtaking!  After two trips to Greece, this country has forever stolen my heart and earned its place as my favourite country in Europe. I hope this Santorini travel guide will help you plan a wonderful holiday in Santorini, and you will love it as much as I do!

FAQ About Travelling to Santorini Island

Drinking water in santorini greece.

Our Airbnb host told us it wasn’t safe to drink the water, so buy bottled water. Hopefully, this will change in the coming years. I hate buying bottled water, due to the plastic waste, which is why we always travel with our own re-usable water bottle with a built-in filter straw .

Electrical Plugs in Greece

Requires European Plugs. So if you don’t already have a universal adaptor plug that works worldwide , I recommend bringing this on all your travels. We have this one and love it! Not only does it work with my computer and hair curler, it has the additional four USB plugs at the top, to charge all your phone and any other gadgets!

Currency in Greece

Euros. I recommend having cash on hand, however, most major restaurants, stores and hotels accept credit cards.

Best Time to Go to Santorini Greece

Greece’s summers sizzle with vibrant tourism from June to September. However, brace yourself for scorching hot days and crowded beaches in July and August, as they are peak tourist months with inflated prices. So choosing to explore Santorini during the tranquil months of spring or fall promises a more serene and budget-friendly vacation experience.

Getting to Santorini Island

To get to the Greek Island of Santorini there is a 99% chance you will first have to fly into  Athens . From Athens, you can then either catch another flight or take a ferry to Santorini. Since Santorini has a very small airport, flights can be expensive, so most people opt for the ferries.

There are two types of ferries, either fast (5 hours – €80) or slow ferries (8 hours – €30) . We booked with Seajet Fast Ferries , even though it was €50 more expensive, but it saved us 3 extra hours on a very bumpy and uncomfortable ferry ride.  So if you get sea-sick, prepare yourself accordingly or pay the extra for the flight.

Tip: If you tend to get seasick on boats, get these acupressure motion sickness wrist bands . I swear by them! Plus they are low cost, and you can re-use them.

Lastly, most ferries from Athens leave super early in the morning, forcing travellers to spend a night in Athens. Because of this, we decided to add a full day in Athens to explore the history mecca of Greece.  If you decide to spend some time exploring Athens, which I highly recommend you do, make sure to read  The Perfect Itinerary for 24 hours in Athens.

Getting to your Accommodation from the Port

A lot of accommodations do not include pick-up from the port. So you need to catch a taxi or bus, which can be quite a nightmare when disembarking a ferry with hundreds of other clueless backpackers and tourists. Instead, save time and avoid stress by pre-booking a transfer to be waiting for you on arrival. We pre-booked this 1-way transfer through Get Your Guide and it got us from the Port to our Airbnb quickly, so we could make the most of our time on the island. I typically use GetYourGuide when I want to uncover new things to do, or in this case for a safe transfer. They’re easy to use and book with, and I’ve had amazing experiences with their tours.

How Long Do You Need in Santorini?

For this Santorini Travel Guide, I recommend staying on Santorini Island for at least 3 days. However, if you are looking for a more relaxed stay, you’ll be happier with 4-5 days. There is so much to see and do on the island, plus you’ll want some time to relax. Also, keep in mind your first day will only a half-day, because it takes so long to get to the island. Luckily the ferries back to Athens or to other islands usually leave Santorini in the afternoon, so you’ll be able to enjoy the morning on your last day.

Santorini Travel Guide: Where to Stay in Santorini

In terms of where to stay, there are plenty of options on Santorini. It all comes down to price, who you are travelling with, and the experience you want to have. If you are on a budget a hostel might be more your style. For a family vacation, a resort will be just the ticket. Or if this is your honeymoon, perhaps splash out and get a romantic villa with a perfect view for sunset.

The two major towns of the island are Fira and Oia. This is where you will find the majority of accommodation on the island. Fira has a bit more action and nightlife, while Oia is more traditional and has the best viewpoint for sunset. The island is fairly small, so no matter where you stay, you can always drive or ATV to the neighbouring town.

Santorini Travel Guide: Getting Around Santorini

Similar to Milos , Santorini is best explored by ATV. You can also rent a car, but with the hot weather and beautiful scenery, I loved scooting around on an ATV. At first, I was nervous. But just remember to be safe by wearing your helmet, and obey standard driving rules on the roads. A lot of tourists can be reckless with the ATVs, which is so disrespectful and dangerous for the locals who live there.

In the end, we settled on a shop that gave us our ATV for $20 a day , but the only problem is, I forget the name of it. I do remember it was on the main street heading into Fira, before you enter into the main Plaka area. It had a big green sign out front. It might be Martiou ATV Rental, or near there. We got an ATV with a little lock box on the back, so we could store our helmets, and bags when driving. My last tip when renting an ATVs is to make sure the gas tank is full when you first pick up the vehicle. We noticed our ATV tank was almost empty after we first left the store, and we had to circle back to make them fill it up.

Where to Eat in Santorini

This wouldn’t be the Ultimate Santorini Travel Guide without sharing where to eat! Greek food is one of my favourites, as it’s so fresh, flavourful, and usually healthy too. Plus, almost everywhere you eat in Santorini includes a stunning view, so try to plan to eat dinner around sunset to enjoy the view.

There are a lot of restaurants in Santorini, and some can be disappointing tourist traps. So to avoid you eating at one of those, here are several amazing places to eat in Santorini that won’t let you down.

Seafood Tavern at Ammoudi Bay

Our lunch at the Seafood Tavern was not only one of my most memorable meals in Greece, but in all of Europe. Yep, it was that good! Our table was located on a patio boarding the Aegean Sea, with waves lapping beside us. I swear if I knelt down I could have literally touched the ocean. Since we were in a fishing area, we treated ourselves to the seafood linguini. We were absolutely amazed by how fresh and flavorful it was. Plus the ambience of the restaurant was perfectly Greek. The Greek music, friendly staff, insanely delicious meal and beautiful scenery made it the ultimate place to have lunch. If you travel to Santorini, promise me you won’t miss out on this amazing food experience.

Melitini Restaurant in Oia

Unique Greek Tapas on a beautiful rooftop terrace set back from the main strip. The staff was incredible, and we met the loveliest travellers beside us. One was a lovely honeymoon couple from NYC, and the other was an older German couple that’d been coming to Santorini every year, for 30 years!! They knew the island inside and out, and this restaurant was one of their favourites. We knew if these regulars loved it, we were in for a treat. The final verdict – it was delicious! Highly recommend making a reservation before you go!

Lolita for Gelato in Oia

This gelato was so creamy and tasty, we went back twice!

Salt & Pepper in Fira

Salt & pepper is one of those place you go for the food, and not the view or ambiance. It is located off the main street in Fira, just outside of the busy Plaka area. The food was traditional Greek and absolutely delicious! We loved their grilled Houlomi with tomato jam & grilled zucchini.

Naoussa in Fira

Great for dinner with lovely live Greek music, and a great upstairs patio. We really enjoyed their moussaka (a Greek version of Shepard’s Pie) and the beef dish they had on special that evening. All the food was traditional and simply delicious. You may need a reservation in the peak season!

Art Café in Fira

A small cocktail bar, perfect for sunset drinks without crowds of crazy tourists.

The perfect ambiance and view for a sun-setter. This restaurant is gorgeous and has one of the best patios on the island. They even have a pool you can pay extra to use if your hotel doesn’t have one. Their menu looked amazing, however, it was a tad pricey for us, so we only stayed for drinks.

Best Things to Do in Santorini

In this next section of this Santorini Travel Guide, let’s dive into the must-see attractions and hidden gems that make this Greek Island an unforgettable destination. Known for its breathtaking sunsets, pristine beaches, and iconic blue-domed churches, Santorini is a dream destination for travellers seeking a mix of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, savouring delectable cuisine, or simply soaking up the sun on volcanic shores, this enchanting island offers an array of unforgettable experiences. Join us as we unveil the must-see attractions and hidden gems that make Santorini an unparalleled paradise for every wanderer.

See Santorini’s Highlights on a Day-Tour

If you are short on time in Santorini, embark on a full-day sightseeing tour to discover the best of the island. Uncover the island’s rich history at the Akrotiri excavation site and delve into the charm of traditional villages like Emporio. Soak up the sun and black sand at Perissa Beach, indulge in Santorini’s distinctive wines at a local winery, and ascend to the peak of Profitis Ilias for breathtaking views. Finally, make sure to savour the unforgettable experience of an Oia sunset, capturing the essence of Santorini’s magical allure. This tour really covers all the highlights in one day , so you can spend the rest of your time in Santorini relaxing.

Wine Tasting

Head to one of the island’s many wineries and learn about Santorini’s unique viticulture. The island’s volcanic soil gives the local wines a distinct taste you won’t find anywhere else. After the wine tasting, take a dip in one of the secluded beaches in the area.

Tip: If you don’t feel comfortable renting a car or ATV, then hop on this day tour that brings you to a variety of wineries, beaches, and then Oia for sunset! Travelling made stress-free.

Oia for Sunset

Santorini sunsets are globally known to be the best in the world, so you can’t miss them. In fact, it felt like our days always revolved around going somewhere to enjoy the sunset with a drink in hand. There are plenty of great spots to watch the sunset, some of which I’ve already mentioned in this Santorini travel guide; however, don’t miss seeing the sun go down in Oia. There is a great bar near one of the old windmills, but if you want to get that classic Santorini shot, you need to go over to the ” sunset lookout ‘. Warning, every night it is always packed with tourists, so either get there early to snag a seat, or expect to stand.

Hike from Fira to Oia

Unfortunately, I caught a cold on the tail end of our trip in Santorini, so we didn’t get a chance to do this hike. But from what I heard, the hike can take up to 2.5-4 hours to do and is best done in the morning, when the sun isn’t too hot. Wear running shoes, bring lots of water, and do not do it at sunset, as you need good light to see the trail. Lastly, don’t forget your camera – apparently, the views are absolutely spectacular!

Since I am travelling out of one suitcase for the year, I don’t have much room for shopping, however, that has never stopped me from browsing. 😉 What I noticed was the shops were a little less expensive in Fira than Oia . There is plenty of beautiful jewelry, pottery, sundresses and bathing suits. I actually found a store in Fira that had the most stunning linen dresses and jumpers, and at reasonable prices. I forced myself to leave the store after buying two pieces, but I could have easier bought a lot more. Some other things that are great to buy: leather sandals, olive oil, capers, and table cloths. Most things are cheaper in Athens if you are passing through this major city.

Explore Oia and Fira

Oia and Fira are the main Plaka towns, that are famous for their cascading whitewashed houses that run along the side of the island’s cliffs. Both of these areas offer terrific views for sunsets, and plentiful restaurants, bars and shops for tourists.

Take a break from all the site seeing and relax with a couple of hours at the spa. Since travelling full time, it has been a while since I’ve treated myself to a Mani and Pedi. I was delighted to find affordable treatments and shellac polishes at Spa Del Mar e Sol in Fira. Their staff and owners were so kind, and my nails lasted a month without a chip!

* What to Skip on Santorini*

Ride a donkey.

After seeing Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, I always thought riding a donkey in Greece would be such an authentic experience. But when in Santorini, we saw how cruel the owners were to the donkeys, and quickly realized it was an abusive industry. Luckily, we never saw any tourists on the donkeys, so hopefully, it will be a tourist experience that naturally disappears in the near future.

Best Beaches to Visit in Santorini Island

In this next section of this Santorini Travel Guide, let’s visit the unique volcanic beaches for when you need some time to relax and cool down from the Santorini sun.

Ammoudi Bay

Ammoudi Bay is a fan favourite, especially if you love to cliff jump! To get here, you have to drive down to Ammoudi Bay, walk through all the restaurants and onto a path that leads you to another bay around the corner. There are no signs, so it may seem like you are going the wrong way, but I promise you, you aren’t. FYI this isn’t your typical sandy beach, but more of a rocky coastline that offers a unique view of Oia above you . Once you jump in the water you will also see on one of the rocky islands there is a small church you can walk up to. From here you can jump into the crystal clear Mediterranean.

After your swim, don’t miss eating at the Seafood Tavern , where we had the best Seafood Linguini I’ve ever had, in my entire life (see more details above).

Red & Black Sand Beach

Santorini is one of the few places in the world that has a red, black and white sand beach. This is due to the fact that it is a volcanic island. The black sand is created by fragmented lava rock, while the red sand is rich in volcanic minerals. The Red & Black sand beach is located on the opposite end of the island from Oia, making it a bit of a trek to get to. This isn’t the most popular beach on the island, but it is interesting to see.

Catamaran Cruise

If you’re short on time, and want to see all these beaches, do a Catamaran Cruise around the island , which should take you to all these beach, and many others . Plus, you’ll get to enjoy sunset from the boat and see Santorini from a different perspective. This is one thing that was on our list to do, but by the time we got there, the one we wanted was booked up. So learn from our mistake and book this unforgettable experience before you go!

What to Pack for Greek Island Hopping

1. sun hat:.

A stylish sun hat is a must-have accessory for your Greek island hopping adventure. Not only does it add a touch of glamour to your outfit, but it also provides much-needed shade and UPF 50 to protect your face from the scorching Mediterranean sun.

2. Lightweight Cover-ups & Towel:

From beach to bar, you’ll want a versatile cover-up to throw on over your swimsuit. Choose a breezy dress, a flowy kimono, or a cute sarong to add a touch of effortless elegance to your island-hopping wardrobe. Also, a sarong can double as a lightweight towel. But if you don’t have one, you can also bring these lightweight and quick-dry towels to use at the beach. We found a lot of our hotels/Airbnbs didn’t supply us with beach towels, so these were handy to have!

3. Comfortable Sandals:

Exploring the charming cobblestone streets and ancient ruins calls for a pair of comfortable sandals. Opt for these ones that are not only cute but also sturdy enough to keep up with your island adventures. Your feet will thank you!

4. Stylish Swimwear:

Get ready to dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Greek islands in style! Pack your favourite bikinis and one-piece suits to make a splash and feel fabulous. Don’t forget to snap those Insta-worthy beach pics!

5. Travel-sized Camera:

Capture the breathtaking beauty of the Greek islands with a compact camera that fits in your purse . From stunning sunsets to picturesque landscapes, you’ll want to preserve those special moments forever. Get snap-happy and create memories that will make you smile long after you return home.

6. Flowy Dresses & Linen sets:

Embrace the carefree island vibes with a collection of flowy dresses and this trendy linen set . Perfect for exploring charming villages or sipping cocktails by the beach, these breezy outfits will keep you stylish and comfortable throughout your island hopping adventure.

Remember, the key to a perfect Greek island hopping adventure is to pack light, stay comfortable, and embrace the carefree spirit of summer! Pack these essentials, and you’ll be ready to make unforgettable memories while looking effortlessly fabulous.

Santorini Travel Guide Conclusion

When it comes to spectacular getaways, no place can compare to the beauty of Santorini. With its captivating history, stunning views, and diverse activities to enjoy, Santorini is the perfect destination for a romantic vacation, a family getaway, or an unforgettable adventure. From the iconic whitewashed villages to the mesmerizing sunsets over the caldera, there’s truly something for everyone in this magical Greek island. Whether you choose to stay in a luxurious five-star hotel or a cozy local apartment, you’ll be enchanted by Santorini’s beauty and hospitality. With a little bit of planning and an open mind, you’ll be able to create lasting memories that you’ll cherish forever. So take the plunge and explore the magnificence of Santorini – you won’t regret it!

I hope this Santorini Travel Guide has helped you plan your perfect vacation. If you have any further questions, asked them in the comments below.

Best Photo Spots on Santorini Island The top end of Fira – Google Maps  Oia Sunset Lookout – Google Maps  Ammoudi Bay – Google Maps 

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Santorini Travel Guide: Things To Do in Santorini, Greece

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

14 Things To Do in Santorini

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

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

1. Wander the streets of Oia

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

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

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

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

2. Oia’s unforgettable sunset

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

See the best hotels in Oia

3. Discover Fira in Santorini

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

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

Firostefani

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

Hotels in Santorini 😴

4. Hike from Fira to Oia

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

More Greece: Visit Milos Island with its paradise beaches

5. Imerovigli

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

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

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

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

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

Here are all your hotel options in Santorini.

7. Explore the island by ATV or motorcycle

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

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

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

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Prices for renting an ATV/Quad or Motorcycle on Santorini

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

8. Visit villages

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

Megalochori 

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

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

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

9. Visit Red Beach

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

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

10. Go on a wine tour  

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

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

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

11. Perissa Beach

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

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

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

12. Archeological sites in Santorini

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

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

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

Book an archeological tour on the island here.

13. Ammoudi Bay

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

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

14. Santorini Volcano and Hot Springs

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

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

Where to eat

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

Our favorite restaurants in Santorini were:

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

Where to stay on Santorini

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

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

How to visit Santorini

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

Getting to Santorini

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

Check the ferry tickets and prices here .

Santorini Airport

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

Getting around Santorini

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

Santorini car rental

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

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

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

Public transport in Santorini

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

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

ATV or Motorbike rental

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

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

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

Your Budget for Santorini

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

Costs of Traveling in Santorini

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

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

Best Time to Visit Santorini

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

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

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• Find Hotels via Booking.com
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• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

Renting a car in Greece in 2024: All you need to know

Greek island hopping: ultimate greece travel guide, 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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Santorini Greece Travel Guide & Best Things To Do

The little island of Santorini Greece is famous for its photogenic old white-and-blue buildings, beautiful high end hotels with infinity pools, and sweeping views of the ocean.

Santorini island is almost synonymous with luxury nowadays, but it’s also possible to travel Santorini on a budget, and many of the best things to do in Santorini are free, such as strolling the historic towns, taking pictures, relaxing on the beach, and seeing the sunset.

A trip to the Greek islands wouldn’t be complete without seeing Santorini for at least a few days, and it’s easier than ever to get there from Athens and other major cities in Europe.

This Santorini travel guide will explain how to get there, where to stay, which transport options and tour packages to use, and some of the best things to do in Santorini Greece. I’ve also included a handy Santorini island map for your trip planning!

Table of Contents show Where To Stay In Santorini Best Santorini Tours Where Is Santorini Island? How To Get To Santorini Greece Transport: How To Get Around On Santorini Best Things To Do In Santorini Greece 1. Oia Village 2. Fira Village 3. Imerovigli Village 4. Perissa Beach More Things To Do In Santorini Greece 5. Megalochori 6. Pyrgos 7. Prophet Elias Mountain 8. Akrotiri Lighthouse 9. Akrotiri Museum Best Santorini Beaches Santorini Island Map Best Sunrise / Sunset Spots In Santorini Greece Other Santorini Tips Is Santorini Safe? Santorini On A Budget — Is It Possible? How Long To Stay In Santorini Greece Santorini Greece Itinerary Best Time To Visit Santorini Greece Santorini Hotels More Greece Travel Guides

Where To Stay In Santorini

Absolute Bliss

Athina Suites

Kalya Suites

Hyperion Suites

Best Santorini Tours

First of all, if you only have a short stay in Santorini, such as a few days or less, then a day tour can be a great way to see the island.

We recommend GetYourGuide for Santorini tours! They have high rated private tours or shared tours that go to a bunch of the best sights like Oia, Pyrgos, and Perissa.

You can also hire a private photographer to take pictures of you in a flowing dress, with the Santorini buildings and seascape in the background, like you always see on Instagram.

We’ve used this company for lots of day tours and activities around the world, and they’re great! Highly recommended.

Book Now: Santorini Greece Private Tour / Dress Photoshoot

Where Is Santorini Island?

Santorini is an island located in the Aegean Sea, southeast of mainland Greece. The distance from Athens to Santorini is about 230 kilometers (140 miles) as the plane flies.

Although it’s just one of about 30 main islands that make up the Cyclades group of Greek islands, Santorini is easily the most famous island in the group, and it’s probably the most famous island in the country of Greece!

Santorini had a volcanic origin, and there are still some natural hot springs and other traces of volcanic activity around the caldera, which can be interesting to see.

Walking around Oia town — one of the best things to do in Santorini Greece!

How To Get To Santorini Greece

Santorini island can be reached by flight or ferry.

Flying to Santorini is the easiest, fastest, and most expensive (but recommended) way to get there. The Santorini airport (JTR) is served by daily nonstop flights from Athens, as well as some international cities like Frankfurt, London, and Rome.

The flight time to Santorini from Athens is 45 minutes, and it costs anywhere from 50 to 100 Euros for a one way ticket with Aegean/Olympic Air or Sky Express.

The best airline to use is Aegean (or its subsidiary Olympic Air) instead of Sky Express if you have a choice, but any of them are fine. Free checked baggage is usually included in the ticket prices.

Shop Now: Santorini flights at Skyscanner

Santorini Travel Guide

Taking the ferry to Santorini from Athens is a bit cheaper than flying, but it’s more complicated and quite a bit slower.

You first have to go to the harbor at Piraeus or Rafina, and then hop on the ferry there. Cost is between 50 and 90 Euros depending on what you select. The boat ride to Santorini takes around 5 hours with the fast ferries, or more than 8 hours with the slow ferries.

If you’re interested in doing some island hopping in Greece and you want to see more than just Santorini, you can also mix up the itinerary a bit.

For example, you can fly into Santorini for a few days, take the ferry to Mykonos, and then fly from Mykonos back to Athens. That can be a great option!

Transport: How To Get Around On Santorini

The towns in Santorini (such as Oia and Fira) are small enough to be walkable by foot for restaurants and most other things, but if you want to do some exploring outside of town you’ll need transport.

The bus can be a great way to get around in Santorini on a budget, and there are stations in all of the important places on the island, with the main hub being Fira. The bus in Santorini is cheap and especially easy to use in the summer months when Greece is busy with tourists. During the low season months, there aren’t as many connections so it may not always be ideal.

For short distance trips near town, there’s no Uber but you can hire a taxi. We used Welcome Pickups for our airport transfers in Santorini, and had a great experience. They have clean cars and safe drivers who will bring you from the airport to your hotel, and vice versa.

Another good way to get around on Santorini island is by renting a car or ATV (4 wheeler). There are many companies offering car rentals on the island, but we recommend DiscoverCars !

Fira views — one of the best things to do in Santorini Greece

Driving in Santorini is a little stressful, but not too hard, and most of the roads are in good condition. One of the main difficulties is finding parking. It’s pretty scarce since Santorini is a small island.

The other challenge is driving in the towns, where there’s more traffic and the roads are narrow, with lots of cars parked on both sides. Drive slowly in town and stay alert. Once you get out of town, the roads are smooth sailing for the most part.

Best Things To Do In Santorini Greece

1. oia village.

Oia village (pronounced ‘ee-yuh’) has some of the most beautiful views and accommodation in Santorini, with historic churches, colorful flowers, and epic ocean views.

This is the place you always see in the famous postcard photos of Santorini Greece. There are a lot of things to see and do in Oia, and it probably has more photo spots than any other area of Santorini.

The main photo spot you can’t miss is the iconic view at Oia Castle , where you can see pretty much the whole town of Oia, with its whitewashed windmills and tightly packed buildings.

This is a very popular sunset spot, but we also liked it during the day when it’s less crowded.

The iconic view from Oia Castle in Santorini Greece

Another good photo spot in Oia is the view overlooking the iconic three blue domes of Santorini.

You can take some amazing pictures of these churches from either side, although you’ll have to wait in line a bit since it’s so popular. Remember to give photographers priority since their clients are paying to get special pictures.

When you get done exploring Oia town, walk down to Ammoudi Bay to see the fish tavernas and the Mediterranean Sea up close.

Where To Stay In Oia: Alexander’s Suites (Budget) or La Perla Villas (Luxury)

2. Fira Village

Fira is the capital of Santorini Greece, and it’s also one of the main tourist areas on the island.

Like Oia, it has stunning views of the caldera, and lots of luxury accommodation and scenic restaurants to go with it. One of the main photo spots in Fira is the view overlooking the iconic three bells of Fira .

However, our favorite spot in town was above the Church of St. John the Theologian . It’s a wonderful old building with an equally amazing background.

Fira is the main bus hub of Santorini Greece, so it’s very easy to reach from anywhere on the island. You can even walk or hike from Fira to Imerovigli (or vice versa) in less than 30 minutes.

Where To Stay In Fira: Bedspot Hostel (Budget) or Athina Suites (Luxury)  

3. Imerovigli Village

The village of Imerovigli is beautiful and underrated. In some ways, it has the best of both worlds in Santorini! It’s arguably just as nice as Oia or Fira, but it’s also less crowded with tourists.

If you enjoy hiking, you can do the short trek out to Skaros Rock , which has great views of Imerovigli and the ruins of a Venetian Castle built in 1207 by Marco Sanudo, who was then ruler of all the Cyclades islands. Go a bit further to see the Theoskepasti Church .

From Imerovigli, you can even walk or hike to Fira (or vice versa) in less than 30 minutes, so it’s easy to visit Fira and access the main bus station there even if you’re staying in Imerovigli.

Where To Stay In Imerovigli: Casa Bianca (Budget) or Absolute Bliss (Luxury)

Panagia Theoskepasti Chapel

4. Perissa Beach

Perissa is a laid back area in Santorini with a black sand beach that stretches more than 3 kilometers (2 miles) long, plus it has lots of hotels and restaurants near the beachfront.

Together with the Kamari area, Perissa is known for being one of the most affordable areas of Santorini. This is a great place to eat cheap Greek food and shop for souvenirs. We had some amazingly inexpensive gyros here!

The beach at Perissa was also one of our favorites on the island of Santorini. For sightseeing, you can take some pictures of the Church of the Holy Cross near the bus station.

Early morning at Perissa Beach

If you’re interested in hiking in Santorini, you can climb up to the monastery on the side of the mountain near Perissa ( Chapel of Panagia Katefiani ).

It’s also possible to reach the ruins of Ancient Thera by this route, although you’ll be going all the way to the top of the mountain, so remember to bring a hat and water!

There is accommodation for every budget in the Perissa area. Even though it has some of the cheapest hotels in Santorini island, there are also luxury options as well.

Where To Stay In Perissa: Villa Dima (Budget) or Anastasia Princess (Luxury)

Church of the Holy Cross in Perissa, Santorini

More Things To Do In Santorini Greece

These are some other things to do in Santorini island that may not fit into a short trip of only a few days, but if you stay a week or longer then they’d definitely be worthwhile!  

5. Megalochori

The quiet little village of Megalochori is one of the most underrated places to visit in Santorini, with quaint narrow streets, Greek cafes, and some great photo ops, including a white bell tower with 6 bells.

We would have loved to spend more time in Megalochori! It’s still a hidden gem, and it doesn’t have the crowds or bustle of Oia. There are plenty of hotels and restaurants if you decide to stay longer.

You can get to Megalochori easily from the main bus station in Fira, and it’s also possible to drive there. We found plenty of parking space near the town.

Where To Stay In Megalochori: Villa Katerina (Midrange) or Ducato Wine Villas (Luxury)

The village of Pyrgos is the former capital of Santorini Greece, and it’s still well worth a visit today. It sits on a foothill of Prophet Elias Mountain, so it’s great to visit on your way up to the mountain!

The main thing people come to see in Pyrgos is the medieval castle, but the cafes and restaurants are also worthwhile, and it’s fun to walk through the charming narrow streets and shop for Greek souvenirs.

We didn’t think Pyrgos was quite as beautiful as Megalochori, but we still really enjoyed it, and it’s easy to reach from Fira by bus, car, or ATV.

Where To Stay In Pyrgos: Bluewhite Villa (Midrange) or Aeon Suites (Luxury)

Souvenirs for sale in Pyrgos village

7. Prophet Elias Mountain

The highest peak in Santorini is Mount Prophet Elias, with an elevation of 565 meters (1,900 feet) above sea level. There’s a nice 18th century monastery at the top of the mountain that’s open to the public, and it’s free to enter.

Aside from having wonderful panoramic views of Santorini island from above, this mountain is also a great place to watch the sunrise or sunset without the crowds of Oia. You can see everything up here, including the planes taking off and landing at the airport. It’s one of the best things to do in Santorini!

The mountain is accessed by driving your vehicle up a winding road for about 10 minutes past Pyrgos. Parking is limited at the top, so come a little early and remember to bring a jacket, as it can be very windy up there!

Mount Prophet Elias — one of the best things to do in Santorini

8. Akrotiri Lighthouse

This is a 19th century lighthouse on the southwest tip of Santorini island. Even though it’s slightly off the beaten path compared to other attractions in Santorini, you can still get there easily with a rental car , and there’s plenty of parking.

The Akrotiri Lighthouse was built by a French company in 1892, so it’s actually one of the oldest lighthouses in Greece! Normally you can’t go inside the building, but the views outside are nice and it’s a fun place to watch the boats go by.

It’s also an especially popular spot to watch the sunset, but remember to hold onto your hat because it can get very windy here sometimes!

Akrotiri Lighthouse

9. Akrotiri Museum

The Akrotiri Museum covers an archaeological site and ancient city in Santorini that was buried in volcanic ash during the 17th century BC.

There are well preserved houses, pots, and other artworks to see, and you can learn some interesting facts about the old settlement here.

If you love history, this is a great place to visit in Santorini. It’s located near the Red Beach, so you can easily combine the two places in one trip!

Book Now: Akrotiri Museum Tickets / Private Tour

Akrotiri Museum

Best Santorini Beaches

Most of the beaches in Santorini are black sand beaches because of the volcanic origin of the island. They’re still nice for relaxing and sunbathing, but don’t expect any dazzling white beaches like you might see on Kefalonia or other Greek islands. Santorini doesn’t have white sand beaches.

One of the most famous and photogenic beaches in Santorini is the red beach, which gets its striking color from volcanic rocks on the seashore. Even if you’re not a beach person, this one is well worth a visit to see the unique red color!

If you’re looking for beaches with accommodation (restaurants and places to stay by the beachfront), then the Perissa and Kamari areas are your best choices. They have nice black sand beaches with hundreds of choices of hotels and restaurants!

The unique red beach in Santorini Greece

Santorini Island Map

Here’s a Santorini island map showing some of the best places to visit.

You can click the icons on this map to get more info and directions for each point of interest, but keep in mind some of the locations may be approximate.

Best Sunrise / Sunset Spots In Santorini Greece

The main place to see the sunset in Santorini is at Oia, where hundreds of tourists gather at the Castle of Oia every evening to watch the sunset. It’s hard to move in the crowds, so you’ll want to get there very early if you plan to do sunset photography. For a less crowded sunset spot in Oia, you can also go to the iconic three blue domes.

Another great sunset spot in Santorini is Prophet Elias Mountain. We went up there one evening and it was very peaceful. It only takes about 10 minutes to drive to the top of this mountain from the nearby town of Pyrgos. From the top, you can see the entire island of Santorini!

For sunrise, the options in Santorini are a bit more limited, but you can see the sunrise at Perissa or Kamari Beach, the hillside of Ancient Thera , or Prophet Elias Mountain.

Last, but not least, there are lots of different sunset tour packages in Santorini that include free hotel pickup and drop-off. You can do a sunset cruise on a catamaran, go kayaking or horseback riding in the sunset, or see the iconic Oia castle sunset.

Book Now: Santorini Sunset Cruise / Kayaking / Horseback Riding / Oia Castle

Other Santorini Tips

• Credit Cards: You can pay by credit card for most hotels, restaurants, and other things in Santorini, but it’s still a good idea to carry a bit of cash (in Euros). Some smaller restaurants only take cash, or the card machines may go down.
• ATM: There are ATMs within reach of every corner of the island. We usually pulled 200 Euros at a time, and never had any issues. One thing to note is that the ATMs will offer you their own conversion rate (which is a really bad rate), or you can continue in Euros. Make sure you choose Euros without their silly conversion rate. This is a well known scam at ATMs in Greece, but it’s easily avoided if you know what you’re doing.
• Cell Service: Phone reception is strong across all of Santorini island, so you won’t have any issues staying in touch.
• WiFi: Internet quality in Santorini is better than the other Greek islands, in our experience. Don’t always expect WiFi speeds on par with Athens (or other European countries), but it’s generally good enough for emails, browsing, and streaming.

Santorini souvenir magnets for sale in Oia town

• Language: The local language in Santorini is Greek, of course, but almost everyone speaks and understands enough English for conversation. Lots of American and British tourists visit the Aegian islands, so the locals are accustomed to speaking English with travelers.
• Mosquitoes: We never saw any mosquitoes in Santorini, and the island isn’t known to be home to the West Nile Virus, so it’s not really a significant concern here.
• Water: The tap water in Santorini is supposed to be safe to drink, but it doesn’t taste good. It’s better to drink bottled water, which is cheap and can be found all over. You can use the tap water for cooking or brushing your teeth.

Fira views — Santorini Island Greece

Is Santorini Safe?

Yes, Santorini is a very safe place to visit, even outside of the resort areas. We spent weeks exploring every corner of the island, and never felt unsafe at all.

Greece has one of the lowest homicide rates in the world. Just take normal precautions and you shouldn’t have any issues with crime. You don’t need to feel worried at all.

We traveled to Santorini as a couple, but based on our experience I would gladly come back as a solo traveler, with no worries in the least.  

Santorini On A Budget — Is It Possible?

Believe it or not, Santorini isn’t only for the super rich — even though many Americans have that image of it! It’s certainly possible to do Santorini on a budget, although you won’t be staying in a luxury hotel with an infinity pool or ocean views.

On our first visit to Santorini, we stayed in Perissa near the beach, and used the public bus to cheaply visit other areas like Oia, Fira, and Imerovigli.

We weren’t staying in the fanciest areas of Santorini, but we could reach them easily for sightseeing and photos, which was good enough for us. We rented a car for a couple days to get to some of the more remote places that are harder to reach by bus.

We got wonderful meals in Perissa for as low as 3 Euros per person, and our hotel ( Studios Apartments Kapetanios ) was 65 Euros per day. That’s still not exactly super cheap, but it’s not bad at all either.

Keep in mind, this was one of the popular summer months (September), and it was a year that happened to be unusually busy for tourism in Greece (2022). So you could conceivably do everything even cheaper than we did.

Overall, I’d say it’s certainly possible to travel Santorini on a budget if you plan it right!

How Long To Stay In Santorini Greece

Santorini is one of those places where you feel like you could stay forever. Relaxing in a pool, soaking up sun, being by the ocean, and eating Greek food never gets old.

As far as sightseeing goes, you can see the highlights of Santorini Greece — namely Oia, Fira, Imerovigli, and Perissa — in 3 or 4 days. If you want to travel at a more relaxed pace and also visit extra places like Pyrgos and Megalochori, then a week or more is good.

We spent almost two weeks in Santorini, and while that’s probably more than most people will need, it gave us plenty of time to relax by the pool and see almost everything on the island at a very relaxed pace.

The photogenic Greek monastery in Perissa

Santorini Greece Itinerary

Here’s what a sample 3-day itinerary for Santorini island could look like, assuming you want to spend the time mainly for sightseeing:

• Day 1: Oia . Stroll the streets of Oia town and soak up the views of the historic whitewashed buildings and Santorini windmills. Pay a visit to the Castle of Oia for an iconic view of the town, and then walk down to Ammoudi Bay to see the fish tavernas. Have a nice meal at one of the many scenic restaurants overlooking Santorini, and then finish the day with sunset watching at Oia Castle.
• Day 2: Fira & Imerovigli . Walk around Fira town and see the iconic three bells of Fira , and the Church of St. John the Theologian . Next, hike or take the bus to Imerovigli town and see the photogenic churches, flowers, and ocean views. Hike out to Skaros Rock and Theoskepasti Church .
• Day 3: Perissa . Visit the Perissa area, relax at the black sand beach, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy some cheap and amazing food at one of the many Greek restaurants. See the Church of the Holy Cross and take some pictures. If you’re interested in hiking, climb up to the monastery on the side of the mountain ( Chapel of Panagia Katefiani ). End the day by driving up Prophet Elias mountain for sunset.

I hope this gives you some ideas for your own trip to Santorini! Of course, you could easily spend longer exploring these places.

If you have 4 or 5 days in Santorini, then spend a full day each on Fira and Imerovigli rather than doing both places in the same day.

You could also spend a full day seeing Pyrgos and Megalochori, plus far-flung sights like the Akrotiri Museum and Akrotiri Lighthouse .

Best Time To Visit Santorini Greece

The best time to visit Santorini island depends on what you’re looking for.

The nicest weather in Santorini is generally from late April to early November. All of these months are mostly warm and sunny, with less rain than winter. The shoulder months in spring and autumn can be ideal if you’re wanting nice weather without the crowds.

The hottest months in Greece are July and August, with high temperatures of about 29 °C (85 °F) and lows around 23 °C (73 °F). This can be great for swimming in a pool or lounging at the beach, although these two months can also be more crowded with tourists.

Winter in Santorini is fairly mild. It’s wetter and cooler, but it’s never actually too cold to visit. High temperatures are around 15 °C (60 °F), and lows are around 10 °C (50 °F). Perfect jacuzzi weather! The winter season is also quieter and cheaper, so you can often get a good deal on hotels and things.

Regardless of when you decide to visit Santorini, you’re sure to have a memorable trip!  

Santorini Hotels

More greece travel guides.

Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed this travel guide for Santorini island in Greece.

We have more travel guides for the Greek islands coming soon, so don’t forget to check back later!

Happy travels!

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Santorini's most breathtaking beaches

Sep 28, 2021 • 4 min read

From the hotel-lined Perissa to the red cliffs at Red Beach, here are Santorini's best beaches © al_la / Getty Images

Few are not awed by Santorini’s breathtaking beauty, its ring of dramatically colored cliffs around the vast, ancient caldera. But looks aside, it’s the beaches that fill your days, and rightfully so. Whether you want to party, relax, sunbathe, swim, enjoy a seaside meal, escape into solitude or simply shed your clothes, the island has a beach for you.

All are a volcanic mix of coarse sand and pebbles, ranging from a burnt brown to a deep charcoal. The east and south coasts have the sandiest beaches along with sheltered waters good for swimming. Here are the very best beaches in Santorini.

Santorini’s main resort town of Kamari has a long stretch of brown sand and clear, calm water that says “jump in!” Food, drink and music are never far as the sands are lined with cafes, bars and clubs. Renting a lounger for the day is easy and you can try a variety of water sports, many of which are geared to families.

Kamari is easily reached by frequent buses or by car from Fira and it’s a hub for small boats ( caïques ) offering quick and cheap trips to more isolated beaches. Note that the sands get jammed in summer.

Otherwise known as Kokkini Beach, popular Red Beach stars in countless Instagram posts thanks to its eponymous red cliffs that loom over the brownish sand. Sheltered from the winds, it’s an easy (albeit crowded) place to while away an entire day. A couple of beachside tavernas rent loungers.

There is a small parking area with a bus stop above Red Beach but be prepared for a slightly perilous walk down. A better bet is a quick boat trip from nearby Akrotiri Beach, which is known for its ruins.

White Beach

An ideal escape from popular Red Beach, White (Aspri) Beach is a sheltered cove a few hundred meters further west along the south coast. It’s best reached by small boat from Red or Akrotiri Beaches.

Lest you start entertaining fantasies of a cliched white-sand idyl, the name here doesn’t describe the sand, which is volcanic and dark, but rather the gleaming cliffs backing the cove. Only a vendor or two offer refreshments (and loungers), so bring what you’ll need for one of the better escapes in the dog days of August.

Armeni Beach

Often overlooked, this small beach is right below the village of Oia at the north end of the island. It has some of the best views from a beach across Santorini’s caldera. The “sand” is rocky and pebbly so footwear is necessary, but you’ll likely find the mellow vibe as well as the refreshments from the waterfront tavernas to be intoxicating. The water here is about the clearest on the island – the rocks along the at-times treacherous shoreline (especially to the west at Ammoudi) are perfect for taking a plunge into the sea. You can navigate the 980ft (300m) down to the shore from the Oia bus stop or drive the small dirt track.

Baxedes Beach

Facing the open water on the north end of Santorini, Baxedes Beach is another quiet option for the busy summer months. Backed by steep cliffs which provide some afternoon shade in spots, it’s a mix of dark rocks, pebbles and coarse sand, which are often pounded by sizable waves. It’s not a place for a family outing, rather it’s a place to shed crowds and clothes. To the east is Baxedes’s near-twin, Paradisos Beach. Services at both are few beyond a couple simple tavernas, so bring what you need. Either can be reached on tiny dirt roads.

Vlihada Beach

An ideal choice for groups with varying interests, Vlihada (Vlychada) Beach gets more popular each year. It’s a long stretch of south-facing coarse dark sand intermixed with small rocks. Tavernas and bars abound and you have you pick of loungers to rent for the day. The site is sheltered so swimming is usually easy.

Besides typical watery activities like snorkeling and diving, you can go for hikes along the beach which pass weird sandstone rock formations pock-marked with myriad holes in sinuous shapes. Or you can learn about the era when Santorini’s main harvest wasn’t tourists but rather tomatoes. An old cannery right on the beach has been transformed into the Tomato Industrial Museum . Road access to Vlihada Beach is easy.

Perissa Beach

This long, grey-sand beach on the southeast coast changes its name as you head south, starting as Perissa Beach, becoming Perivolos Beach and then Agios Georgios Beach. The sand gets a bit finer as you move south, while the many accommodation choices become more upscale. This long strand is the best option if you want a hotel right on the beach, rather than amidst the dynamic vibe of hilltop Fira.

The choice of beach clubs, tavernas, hotels and apartments here is varied, with something for every taste and budget. A long tree-shaded promenade makes for wonderful strolling along the over 2 miles (3km) of shoreline.

All three beaches have excellent access from parking areas; regular buses pass by from Fira.

You might also like: First time Santorini: top tips for your first trip to the Greek isle    Santorini's most unmissable experiences    How to enjoy Santorini on a budget   

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Santorini Itinerary

Greece › Santorini › Santorini in 1 to 7 Days Updated: February 11, 2023 By Santorini Dave

• Best Things To Do in Santorini
• Best Hotels in Santorini
• Where to Stay in Santorini

Santorini Itinerary Best Things to Do in Santorini : Fira-Oia Caldera Hike • Ancient Akrotiri • Outdoor Cinema in Kamari Best Tours : Santorini Wine Tours • Santorini Boat Tours • Santorini Helicopter Tours Best View : Agios Georgios Chapel in Imerovigli Best Restaurant : Athenian House in Imerovigli Best Beach : Perissa Beach Best Nightlife : Fira Most Fun Activity : Jet Ski to the Volcano Best Hotels : Grace Hotel • Cavo Tagoo • Katikies • Canaves Suites • Athina Luxury Suites

Top 5 Santorini Highlights

1. enjoy the views of the caldera and volcano.

2. Do a Boat Tour of the Volcano

3. Do a Santorini Wine Tour

4. The Very Best Restaurants on Santorini

5. Santorini Nightlife

One Day in Santorini

• Do the Fira-Oia Hike or if that’s too much explore the caldera paths in Oia or walk between Fira and Imerovigli.
• Do a boat or wine tour .
• Eat at The Athenian House in Imerovigli or Metaxi Mas in Exo Gonia.
• Watch the sunset from Fira, Oia, or Imerovigli.

Two Days in Santorini

• Do the Fira-Oia Hike .
• Do both a boat and wine tour . With good use of time you can do both.
• Eat at The Athenian House in Imerovigli and Metaxi Mas in Exo Gonia.
• Watch a movie at the Open Air Cinema in Kamari .

Three Days in Santorini

• Do both a boat and wine tour .
• Visit the ruins at Akrotiri and the village of Pyrgos (if you have a rental car) or one of the beaches (Kamari or Perissa) if you don’t.
• Eat at The Athenian House in Imerovigli, Metaxi Mas in Exo Gonia, and a few of the other best restaurants in Santorini .

Five Days to One Week in Santorini

• If budget allows do one or more of the private Santorini tours .
• Rent a car for at least one day.
• Visit the Akrotiri Ruins , The villages of Pyrgos and Emporio, Kamari Beach , and Perissa Beach .
• Eat at The Athenian House in Imerovigli, Metaxi Mas in Exo Gonia, and several of the other best restaurants in Santorini .
• If you have more than one week I highly recommend you do the first week in Santorini and then visit one or two of the fantastic nearby islands like Paros , Naxos , or Mykonos .
• Best Tours & Things to Do in Santorini
• Maps of Santorini
• Videos of Santorini
• Santorini Holidays
• The Complete Santorini Travel Guide

About Santorini Dave

We are staying in Imerovigli in Santorini from the end of September until after the beginning of October for our honeymoon. We are going to Athens for two days and then spending 7 days in Santorini. We were wondering if we need to make reservations for all the restaurants and tours now or if we would be able to pick and choose once we arrive? We didn’t know if everything would be booked by the time we got there.

If there was a tour or restaurant that was very important then yes, reserve a month or more in advance. But for most tours you’d be fine booking a week or so in advance. For most restaurants a day or two in advance – or less.

My wife and I will be in Santorini the first week of October. (Staying at the Grace Santorini.) We are planning to do some wine tasting. Any particular wineries you would recommend (someone suggested Domaine Sigalas)?

Thanks in advance for your insights!

– Michael

Gavalas winery in Megalochori has the best wine. Art Space in Exo Gonia is the most interesting. Venetsanos has the best views.

Hi Dave Thanks for the great information on this site. We are travelling from Boston to India in June and visiting Greece on our way back. Family of 2 adults and 2 kids (7 and 10 years old)

We arrive at Athens July 13 @ 1:15 pm. We leave Athens for Boston on July 21 2:30 pm.

Our plan is to stay in Athens for 2 nights (July 13, 14), travel to Santorini and stay there for 4 nights (July 15-18), travel to Mykonos and stay there for 2 nights (July 19-20)

We are looking to stay at Pantheon or Ramezzo in Santorini and Mykonos Princess in Mykonos.

We would like to get your thoughts on our travel within Greece. 1. What hotel would you recommend in Athens that is not too far from the airport? The main places we want to cover is the Acropolis. 2. Easy to get to for a flight to Santorini on Jul 15. 3. Since our return flight from Athens is at 2:30 pm, what is the latest time that we should leave Mykonos to make it to Athens in adequate time? 4. Are flights for Athens easier to get and with more frequency from Santorini vs Mykonos? If yes, then we can go to Mykonos first and then Santorini and then return to Athens. 5. Do we have the time to do a day trip to Naxos? 6. Any other recommendations you may have?

At this point, our travel plans for Greece are quite flexible and I would appreciate your input before we make any reservations.

Thanks and Happy Holidays, Sangita

1. You’ll see my favorite hotels on my Athens hotels page. I would not stay near the airport if you want to see the Acropolis. If you overnight in Athens on your final night (in transit from the islands through Athens) then staying at the Airport Sofitel is a good plan. 3. I’d be sure to arrive in Athens at least 2.5 hours in advance of your departure. But even then it’s not a 100% that you arrive in time. 4. Santorini does have more flights than Mykonos but both have plenty. You only need one flight, if Mykonos has a time that works for you then do that. 5. Possible, but I’d spend that time in Santorini.

Is Amoudi Bay a good place to swim? Is it worth going down the steps to explore this place? Alexandre

The swimming and cliff jumping is great. Lots of fun.

I’m so glad I stumbled across your site, it is so helpful! We are staying at Perivolas in Oia for 7 nights from 30Sep-06Oct. After reading through much of your site, it seems like renting a car for a day or two may be a good idea based upon our location and amount of time we have on the island. What places would you suggest visiting during those 2 days with a car and in any suggested order? Thank you! Kara

Yes, renting a car for a day or two will be a great way to see the island but you don’t need it for the whole week.

Places to visit while you have your rental: -drive the east coast starting east from Oia to Baxedes (not taking the main road back to Fira) -Pyrgos -Emborio -Akrotiri (the ancient historical sight) -Red Beach -Outdoor Cinema in Kamari -Lighthouse on southwestern tip – Metaxy Mas Restaurant – Good Heart Restaurant – Yalos by The Sea Restaurant

I would do a wine tour instead of visiting with your rental car but if you do go on your own most of the wineries lie in the area between Kamari and Megalochori. They are marked with a road sign that you’ll quickly recognize.

Your site is amazing and has been a tremendous help in planning my solo trip to Greece later this month. I’m going to Mykonos for a few days and then Santorni. I’ve written out a whole itinerary, including key Greek dishes I’d like to eat. Needless to say, I like to plan ahead. I’d like to get your thoughts on it if you can take a look. And suggestions you would strongly make? Or red flags? Let me know!

About me: 25 year old American woman (New Yorker). Not really into the crazy party scene. I don’t even drink. But I do like hanging out at bars and dancing. I’m a big foodie. I’m also very physically fit and love hiking.

Mykonos (21st – 24th)

Day 1 (arriving nighttime):

Activity: Explore Mykonos Town (Matoyianni Street) Dinner: Bakalo Restaurant (Lakka, Mykonos Town)

Activity: Platys Gialos Beach (maybe Paraga and Paradise as well) Lunch: Yialo-Yialo (Platis Gialos, Mykonos) Dinner: Katerina’s Bar for Sunset (Little Venice, Mykonos)

Activity: Hike from Ano Mera to Lia beach to Kalafati Lunch: Paprika (Ano Mera) Dinner: Kiki’s Tavern

Day 4 (Morning):

Activity: Ornos Beach (morning) Lunch: Markos Falafel Depart Mykonos at 1:50 Hellenic Seaways to Santorini

Santorini (24th – 28th)

Day 4 (arriving late afternoon):

Activity: Explore Fira Lunch: Gyro at Lucky’s Activity: Sunset in Imerovigli at Skaros Rock Dinner: Anogi

Activity: Ancient Thera, Perissa Beach Lunch: Tranquilo Dinner: Metaxy Mas Tavern Activity: Kamari Cinema at night

Activity: Hike Fira to Oia Lunch: Roka Dessert: Lotza (in Oia) Activity: Koo Club or Tropical Bar

Activity: Explore Fira, Ammoudi Bay Lunch: Ammoudi Fish Tavern Activity: Sunset in Oia

Day 8: (whatever)

Depart Santorini on 6:50 flight

DISHES TO EAT:

Appetizers Courgette Balls (Kolokithokeftedes) Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmadakia) Greek Salad (Choriatiki) Tzatziki Spanikopita Calamari

Entrée Gyro Meatballs (Keftethes) Moussaka Souvlaki Octopus

Dessert Balaklava Galaktoboureko Revani Loukoumades

Thanks, Cherice

Looks wonderful. Getting from Metaxy Mas to cinema you’ll need a car or ATV – not walking distance and taxis are hard to find.

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We’ve taken a number of tours on our cruise to the Greek islands and this tour of Santorini is by far the best. To start with, the tour vehicle is a 20 person Mercedes and is modern, clean and comfortable. The best part of the tour, however, was our fabulous guide George. George was very friendly, knowledgeable and engaging. He took very good care of the group and was extremely knowledgeable about the history of Santorini and of every site we visited. He knows exactly where to go and where to stand to take the best photos and always volunteers to take pics of us by each of the iconic landmarks. It was a memorable tour and we would gladly and definitely do it again!

Outstanding customer service! Dina was incredibly helpful and flexible, allowing us to customize our tour based on our interests and abilities. Traveled with my 75-year-old mother with limited mobility. Our driver Tomas was incredibly helpful and considerate, stopping at places where she would be able to walk and not feel like we missed out on anything. Incredible people to work with and I am 100% satisfied with our tour. Santorini has long been a bucket list item, and it absolutely lived up to my every expectation! My highest recommendation.

We’re glad we decided to book this tour with you. George, our guide, was competent, thorough, and took good care of us. We were especially impressed with his solicitous care of the family that needed special assistance.

Brilliant way to see the island. We wouldn’t have been able to see or do half of what we did without your help, thank you. Dina was extremely thoughtful and made us feel so welcome. Thomas was a great guide, very informative. A fantastic day, if I could give it 6 stars I would!

This was a spectacular experience. We only had one day in Santorini, but we feel so satisfied. We highly recommend this tour to others! They went above and beyond in making sure we were all comfortable and well-informed. There were very nice touches as well such as providing cold water and informing us of public restrooms and a great gelato spot with ample time to enjoy all our stops!

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We had the best time! Chris is a fantastic tour guide and photographer :). Dena the owner of the company met with us when we arrived to discuss the details of the excursion and what we wanted to do. Santorini is gorgeous and Chris knows all the main spots and added views that we would have never seen! Great time! Plus air conditioned really nice van in between added perk. Oia is incredible! Thank you Chris!

Enjoyed this small group tour as compared with busload of people. George our tour guide was excellent, speaks very fluent English, attentive, knowledgeable and fun. He was able to describe each place as well as took our photos. We were able to see everything included in the Itinerary and had time to spare, that otherwise we won’t be able to do on our own due to limited time with the cruise ship. George and Dina both are outstanding in customer service, highly recommended.

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How To Get Around Santorini – Cars, Quads, Buses & Taxis

Updated On: January 13, 2024

Written By: Pavlos Inglesis

Getting Around in Santorini can be tricky in many cases but if you know the tips I am giving you below you won’t have any issues.  You have plenty of options as you can rent a car, a motorbike, a quad, take a taxi or even take the local bus (UBER does work in Santorini and in Athens ).  So, this is how to get around Santorini.

Depending on what your budget is, you can do the following to get around Santorini:

• Use the  local Santorini Bus
• Take a local taxi (by UBER or the FREENOW Apps)
• Rent a quad
• Rent a motorbike
• UBER and LYFT do not exist in Santorini (but only in Athens )
• Use a private transfer taxi after coordinating with your hotel (they can give you all the details)

To get a feel of the local buses in Santorini you can watch my video from the Santorini Local Bus Central Station at Fira:

Riding an ATV is the funnest option to get around on the island for many people but it can be more unsafe and potentially dangerous as they are not that stable.

You can always stay at your  hotel in Santorini  and spend the whole day by the pool relaxing, but obviously if you really want to explore the island and see its beauty, then you definitely need to  move around .

This is the bus station at Imerovigli town. Looks cute right…? Imerovigli is in my opinion the best place to stay in Santorini .

HOW TO GET AROUND SANTORINI

• Best Way to Get Around Santorini:   rent a car
• Santorini buses:  The bus ticket costs 2.00-2.50 euros (depending on your destination)  – check Santorini Buses Timetables here
• Best Website to Rent A Car in Santorini :  RentalCars
• UBER and Lyft do not exist in Santorini  (it’s only available in Athens )
• The longest drive on the island is about  40mins
• Fira Main Bus Station on Google Maps
• All local Buses have  Fira town as the main hub . All buses depart from and finish their route there.
• From Fira to the Airport is a 10 mins drive. The taxi shouldn’t charge you more than 20 euros for such a route
• From Athinios Ferry Port to Fira is a 20 mins drive and the taxi should charge you about 15-20 euros
• There are no taxi meters in the taxis and fares are fixed.  So, always ask in advance what the price will be. If you want to call a taxi then you need to call : +30 22860 22555

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

How can you get from the Airport / Port to your Hotel in Santorini ?

That’s the first thing you have to worry about but to be honest most of the  hotels in Santorini can normally come and pick you up from the airport or the ferries port.

Always check with your hotel if they offer such a service.

Be careful though because some hotels charge a lot to come and pick your from the airport.

Bear in mind this is literally a 10 mins drive and any taxi shouldn’t charge you more than 30 euros in any case.

So if a hotel asks for anything more than that then avoid it and just take any taxi from the airport (or the port).

The only problem with that is that there will normally about 8-10 taxis (maximum) at the airport waiting for travellers and this is definitely not enough. So you have to hurry up, otherwise you may have to wait up to 30mins for a taxi to come back from another route.

Some of the most premium hotels may offer that for free.

It’s also good to know that there is no UBER or Lyft in Santorini !

Santorini Car Rental Tips

The best way to get around Santorini is by car.  I keep on telling everyone who asks me that it’s only by having your own means of transportation you would be able to explore the island and not waste too much time on waiting for the bus.

Where can you rent a car for Santorini?

If you are visiting Santorini in any month other than May, June, July, August, September I strongly suggest that you book well in advance online eventhough there are tens of car rental places on the island.

The best and safest website to rent a car for Santorini is:  RentalCars.Com

You should definitely book a car online before you arrive to avoid the risk of not having one (especially in the high season).

How is Driving in Santorini?

In Santorini we drive on  the right side of the road . Like the USA.

You do need an international driver’s license if you have a non-EU (European) license but everyone on the island is pretty flexible about it and you won’t have any issues with any driver’s license to be honest, no matter where it’s coming from.

Yes, Santorini streets can be narrow but it’s nothing scary to be honest, if you have some driving experience.

It is true though that in the summer months of July, August and September you have to be slightly more careful as there is more people and cars on the island.

Also, be careful of the hundreds of quad bikes that may come out of nowhere…

This is how driving in Santorini looks like:https://www.youtube.com/embed/AukTQtjixjI?feature=oembed&start&end&wmode=opaque&loop=0&controls=1&mute=0&rel=0&modestbranding=0

Why Renting A Car is the Best Way To Get Around Santorini?

By having your own car  you can explore the island in the best possible way  without worrying about timings.

That’s very important if you only have 2-3 days on the island and it’s also very important if you are going home (or hotel) late after a night out (be careful about drinking though as police are carrying out alcohol tests on every corner during the summernights).

Having a car is also giving you the opportunity to go to some places that the buses don’t go.

Santorini is a relatively small island so you won’t have to worry about driving hundreds of kilometres every day.

The longest drive you would probably do is about 20 kilometres for about 30-35 mins…and that’s it!

I’d also say that renting a car in Santorini is also a much safer option from a quad bike or an ATV and it is probably cheaper after all than taking a taxi all the time.

What are the Pros and Cons of renting a car in Santorini?

Pros: – You are more independent and you can go anywhere – You can take it directly from the airport upon your arrival – You can see the whole of the island in one day if you want!

Cons: – It can be more expensive – You might be scared to drive through the narrow streets of Santorini – You might have to worry about parking (especially at the top attractions during the high season)

Santorini Local Buses Tips

Taking the  bus in Santorini  is obviously the cheapest way to move around as with around 2 euros you can go pretty much to all the big towns and main attractions.

CLICK HERE TO CHECK the updated Santorini Bus Timeschedule.

You can take the bus to pretty much every major town or attraction (including Oia) but the thing is that you don’t get a bus whenever you want it and things can get pretty busy and chaotic during the hot summer months of July, August and September.

Where can the local Santorini buses take you?

From the  timetable here  you can see that there is a bus from Fira to  Akrotiri, Perissa, Kamari, Airport, Oia, Imerovigli and Athinios port.

Here are roughly all the destinations that the local bus can take you along with the approximate time that it takes to get there:

How much does the Santorini bus cost?

A single ticket cost anything from  1.80 euros to 2.50 euros  depending where you are going. You can buy a ticket from the driver inside the bus and you should always pay by cash. Cards are not accepted unfortunately. (FOR THE MOST UP TO DATE PRICES ALWAYS ASK THE BUS DRIVER)

What are the pros and cons of taking the bus in Santorini?

Pros: – You don’t have to worry about driving – It’s by far the cheapest way to get around Santorini (with 2 euros you can visit any major town)

Cons: – Buses only go from and to Fira – The bus stop may not be very close to where you want to go (especially for your arrival where you might be carrying your luggage) – For some areas the bus is not that frequent and if you are visiting only for 2-3 days you may waste time waiting for it – The bus might be full (especially during July/August/September) and you may have to wait the next one – There isn’t a bus for every town area (if you are visiting wineries there isn’t always a bus that can take you there)

Santorini Taxis Tips

Getting a taxi in Santorini  is another way of moving around on the island.

But to be honest if you are going to use a taxi for every place you want to visit then you are probably better of by  renting a car  as it can become very expensive during the high season as prices sky-rocket.

This is all you need to know about taxis in Santorini:

• The TAXIs are of grey/silver colour  and usually they are a MERCEDES brand (not sure why…)
• There is no UBER or Lyft in Santorini
• The main taxi hub is at Fira.  A taxi hub in greek is also called a “taxi piatsa”.
• If you want to call a taxi then you have to call +30 22860 22555
• You should not pay more than 25 euros for any ride, anytime on the island!
• Always ask/agree the fare with the driver before you get onto the taxi
• You may have to wait some time till your taxi arrives if you are on the other side of the island (all taxis use Fira as their basis)
• After 00:00 midnight you will be charged more (normally double)
• It can be very difficult to find a taxi (even if you call) after midnight during July-August
• All drivers speak english very well
• Bear in mind that there is a limited amount of taxis on the island
• There are some taxis always waiting for travellers at the Airport and at the Athinios main Port but you have to be quick…
• You shouldn’t pay more than 30 euros from the Airport to Fira (it’s literally a 10 mins drive)

There are many ATV or motorbike rental shops on the island and you won’t have any issues finding a vehicle, as long as you book it well in advance.

In my honest opinion,  the best way to get around Santorini is by  renting a car .   It will give you the flexibility and the opportunity to explore the island in a much better way without wasting time and money elsewhere. Taking the bus is the most affordable option  and taking the taxi can also be a good option if you don’t want to drive and you want to go somewhere quickly. It may cost you more though. Many people rent a quad nowadays, but it is a less safe option and it can actually be on the same price range as renting a car, so i am not sure if it’s smart at the end of the day (yes it can be fun for a few hours but for your main means of transportation, I am not so sure…)

The choice is yours!

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29 thoughts on “how to get around santorini – cars, quads, buses & taxis”.

Thank you for this info! I am planning my first trip to Greece. This is very helpful!

I am glad it helps you! Let me know if you need any other info.

This has been EXTREMELY helpful! Thank you so much for all of the honest, straightforward, insightful information. I have saved the page to use while we are traveling.

Hello Pavlos, Thank you for this helpful site. I had some questions about Luggage. Can the smaller cars handle larger luggage’s? I see there are no SUV/Jeeps like in the USA. Any advise will be helpful.

Also can you say a little about parking on the island? What is the charge? Are there enough spaces? Street parking? safety? etc.? Also how about in the Fira area where it’s busy. Where can I park there?

I don’t believe you will have any issues carrying your luggage as the cars can normally accommodate anything as they are regular sedans. The main reasons ypu won’t find SUVs in Santorini is that streets are very narrow!! Also, bear in mind that some hotels usually have mini vans to get you to and from the airport. In regards to parking, I am not going to lie to you: it can be extremely difficult for Fira, Oia and Pyrgos in the hot season (June-October). You may have to park well outside the main town and then you may have already to walk 10-20 mins to reach the center of the town. There are no available parking areas with paid bays but only just street parking, whenever you find an available spot. There is a dedicated prking area in Oia though and it can cost up to 20 euros for 4 hours which is pretty expensive (these charges change every year and they really depend on… how many people are visiting the island…).

Hi Pavlos, thanks for this detailed guide! What about e-bikes? Google Maps doesn’t show cycling routes unfortunately. To cycle from Fira to the south areas (Pyrgos, Akrotiri, Perivolos and Kamari), will it be difficult? Thank you!

Unfortunately Google Maps is not that up to date on cycling routes in Greece but they definitely exist. The island is pretty small so distances are not a problem. However, uphills might be an issue as the Santorini (and Greece overall) is very mountainous with lots of uphillls and downhills. Also, if you visit the island in July, August or September I would highly advise you to be extremely careful as you would be cycling next to lots of cars and ATVs in narrow roads on top extreme hot temperatures (that can go up to 40 degrees Celsius in some cases…). It can be dangerous and exhausting, even for an e-bike.

Hi, What bus do I need to catch to go from Thira to Pyrgos? Pyrgos is not listed as a destination in the bus timetable.

There are frequent buses to Pyrgos village from Fira. If you go to the main bus station at Fira you should be able to find all the timetables. It’s also the bus that goes to Exo Gonia. The drive from Fira to Pyrgos is 10mins.

Hi, is there any place to rent a 4 seater buggy (side by side) for the day? I have looked around online, but all I see are 2 person buggies available.

I am really not sure about that to be honest. You have to contact the rental companies directly.

Are there any tips for travelling around Santorini with young children please? Can you take pushchairs on the bus? Are child fares the same price as adults? Do you need to use car seats in taxis?

Things are very relaxed in regards to child seats in Greece in general.

However, (being a father myself) the best thing you can do is to rent your own car to move around the island… It’s honetly going to be the best option.

Rental Car companies do have car seats for children.

Children younger than 12 years I believe they travel for free on the local bus but I am not 100% sure so you may hvae to ask the driver itself.

But as I said, the best thing you can do is basically rent your own car… it’s going to make your life a million times easier while on the island.

I appreciate your page so much! Is Uber now available? I’m staying in Pyrgos and I noticed a bus ride there is not as frequent. I’m wondering if taxi is my best option?

Yes, indeed. Taxis are the best options if you don’t want to wait for hours for the local bus…

My family of 5 (all adults) will be arriving by cruise ship to the Old Port August 9th.

Can you recommend a route for us to get to Vlichada? We will be renting a boat for the afternoon.

Can a taxi fit 5 people? Should we rent a car? Take the bus?

Hi Margaret,

My adivce is always to rent a car because it gives you the flexibility to do whatever you want to do while on the island. If you want to get to Vlychada Google Maps is your friend as the route that suggests is pretty accurate. A taxi is probably not going to fit 5 people as well so you may need to take 2 taxis or waste time waiting for the bus to Vlychada that is not that frequent unfortunately…

Where on the island can I hire a car and driver to take me around?

Hello! thanks for all the helpful information. Is it easy to get a taxi from Oia to Fira at night – after 22:00?

Sure! There are always taxis (especially in September) waiting at the airport. But you have to be quick though…

We will be in Santorini in late September

Can we pay for 3 bus tickets in 1 transaction, or does each family member have to pay for their own ticket separately?

You can pay for all of them together but every person must have his/her own ticket.

Do taxis take Visa credit cards?

Thanks again!

They mostly do but some of them may require cash so you should ask before you get in the taxi, to make sure. It’s generally not a bad idea to have some cash with you anywhere in Greece as sometimes the card machine may be “broken”…

Thank you for the quick reply!

Hi Pavlos, My wife and I have been to Santorini 5 times, this June is our last. The only place we want to go to is Akrotiri archeological site. I rented a car, saw the requirement for an International License, I called rentalcar.com / Sunbird and the woman said there is no way they will rent a car without it. Can I book a taxi ahead of time from the top of the tram in Fira? I’m desperate. James

Hi James, The top of the cable is literally 10 mins walk time from the main bus station at Fira and also the main central taxi station which is next to each other pretty much. I highly advise you to walk there and either take a taxi or even the bus depending on how much time you have. It’s very easy and nothing to worry about.

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TOP RATED HOTELS IN:

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

TOP RATED VILLAS IN:

Oia:  Anemi House

Fira:  Anteliz Villa

Kamari:  Eolia Villa

Pyrgos:  Sensation Villa

Akrotiri:  Cavo Ventus

Firostefani:  Villa Aura

Imerovigli:  Grace Villa

BEST THINGS TO DO IN SANTORINI:

🌄 Sunset Cruise with Meals and Drinks

🍷 Half-Day Wine Adventure Tour

🥾 Hike the path from Fira to Oia

ALL AVAILABLE FERRIES TO GREEK ISLANDS:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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• 1. Watch the Sunset
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Travel Guides

Traveler information, visit santorini on a cruise ship here’s everything you need to know.

Are you planning to visit Santorini on a cruise ship?

It’s going to be fun!

Just make sure you know everything about traveling and getting around on a cruise ship in Santorini for a pleasant experience. Traveling on a huge cruise ship can be great but it also means that you probably have a limited time for exploring the island – and if you don’t have any idea of what to do and what to avoid, you can get confused.

Here’s the ultimate travel guide to make sure your trip to Santorini on a cruise ship is the best and smoothest trip ever!

Important Things to Know

• Santorini has two ports ; Athinios Port and the Old Port of Fira. Both the ports are too small for the cruise ships to be docked directly. Hence, you’ll have to rely on a ship’s tender to reach the ports.
• Generally, the cruise ship itineraries in Santorini drop some passengers off at Athinios and the others at the Old Port of Fira. Passengers who arrive at Athinios Port are supposed to book a bus tour via the cruise ship company. These tours are usually packed with many people and hence, we don’t recommend them.
• If you don’t book a bus tour via the cruise ship company, you’ll be dropped off at the Old Port of Fira.
• All cruise ships depart from the Old Port. Even the passengers who have booked the bus tour via their cruise ship company have to reach the Old Port to take the ship tender to get on the cruise ship.

How to Get to Fira from Old Port or Vice Versa

The easiest and most common way to reach the Old Port is by a cable car . It takes only three minutes. On the other hand, if you’re feeling adventurous and decide to walk to the port, it’ll be 587 steps. Local donkey ride is another easy way to get there.

Important note: Please note that Gialos, the Old Port is nestled at the foot of a rocky cliff below Fira. If you decide to go by a cable car or on a donkey, you’ll have to pay 6€ per side of the ride.

Where is the Meeting Point if You Book a Private Tour?

For private bus tours, the meeting point is at the top of the cable car. Once you reach the Old Port of Fira, you’ll have to take a cable car to go to the top. Depending on your tour organizer, you may find a guide waiting for you on the top with a sign that has your name or the company name on it.

For private cruise tours, the meeting point could be either at the top of the cable car or Old Port. If it’s the latter, the cruise will start there. Otherwise, you’ll have to meet the tour guide at the top of the cable car who’ll pick you up and drop you at the start port of the private cruise.

Typically, a private cruise in Santorini starts from Ammoudi Port or Vlychada Port while the drop off may be the Old Port of Fira. It’s best to book a cruise and request the organizer to arrange either the meeting point or the drop off location at the Old Port. This will allow you to witness the breathtaking views of Santorini from Caldera while helping you save some precious time by eliminating the need for arranging transportation.

An ideal itinerary is: Old Port > cable car > port of the private cruise by a shuttle > private cruise experience > drop off at Old Port on yacht OR Pickup from Old port on a yacht > private cruise experience > Fira via shuttle service > Old Port via cable car > cruise ship on a ship tender Get in touch with us to find out about the availability of a private cruise that has its meeting point or drop-off at the Old Port.

Will You Have Time to Enjoy a Boat Tour if You Visit Santorini on a Cruise Ship?

A simple answer to this question is that it depends on the time you’re going to spend in Santorini.

If you decide to book a volcano tour that is supposed to depart from the Old Port, the arrival time of your cruise ship must be at least an hour before the departure time of the tour. Moreover, the departure time of the cruise ship must be an hour after the end time of the tour. For example, if the tour starts at 11:00 AM and finishes at 14:00, your cruise ship must arrive at 10:00 AM and depart from Santorini at 15:00.

On the other hand, if you book a catamaran cruise or a private yacht cruise, the departure port will be Ammoudi or Vlychada Port. In this case, your cruise ship must arrive at least a couple of hours before the cruise tour starts because usually, the pickup is on the nearest road just a few meters away from the cable car. You’ll need approximately one hour to reach there and another hour to reach the port through the shuttle service. The time to depart, however, should be 2.5 hours after the tour ends. This is because you’ll need an hour to reach the cable car from the port and chances are that you’ll find a long queue of passengers waiting for the cable car. You might have to wait for half an hour or so before you get a seat. Please note that the last ship’s tender departs an hour before the cruise ship’s departure time.

Recommended : It’s always best to book a private cruise in Santorini for a smooth, hassle-free experience. You can contact us and tell us about your specific requirements. We’ll be more than happy to adjust the start and end time of the private cruise tour and even change the departure port for you! Get in touch with us today to ensure a pleasant private cruise tour in Santorini.

Best Things to Do for Cruise Ship Passengers

Book a Private Bus Tour

It is best for cruise ship passengers to book a private bus tour for seeing the top sights in Santorini. Not only will it help you save money but also your time.

Have the Time of Your Life on a Private Cruise

If you are a sea lover, booking a private cruise is a must! The beauty that lies in the crystalline waters of the island cannot be described in words!

We can arrange accommodation to pick up and drop you off at Old Port of Fira where the cruise ship departs.

Admire the View of the Caldera

Before taking the cable car to Old Port, don’t forget to stop by to explore Caldera and admire the breathtaking views it offers.

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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40 Most Beautiful Places To Retire On Earth

Posted: April 26, 2024 | Last updated: April 26, 2024

Embarking on the golden years of retirement is an exciting journey, and choosing the right destination can play a pivotal role in shaping this new chapter. From the sun-kissed shores of Santorini to the majestic peaks of the Grand Tetons, the world is adorned with breathtaking locales that beckon retirees seeking tranquility, adventure, and cultural enrichment. In this article, we explore 40 of the most beautiful places to retire, each offering a unique blend of natural splendor, cultural charm, and a welcoming environment for those looking to savor the joys of retirement in picturesque settings across the globe.

1. Santorini, Greece

Nestled in the Aegean Sea, Santorini boasts breathtaking sunsets over iconic white-washed buildings and crystal-clear waters. Its mild climate, rich history, and vibrant local culture make it an ideal retirement destination for those seeking a peaceful yet stimulating environment.

2. Tuscany, Italy

Retirement in Tuscany means immersing oneself in a timeless landscape of rolling vineyards, olive groves, and historic villages. Renowned for its art, architecture, and delectable wines, Tuscany provides retirees with a slow-paced lifestyle, cultural richness, and culinary delights. The warm, sunny climate and a strong sense of community make it an enchanting destination for those seeking a serene retirement.

3. Queenstown, New Zealand

Nestled in the Southern Alps on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is a retirement paradise for nature enthusiasts. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, serene lakes, and adventure opportunities, Queenstown offers a perfect blend of tranquility and excitement. The friendly Kiwi culture, excellent healthcare, and a plethora of outdoor activities make it an ideal spot for an active and fulfilling retirement.

4. Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s lush rainforests, diverse ecosystems, and pristine beaches make it a haven for retirees seeking a tropical paradise. With a commitment to sustainability, a stable political environment, and affordable healthcare, Costa Rica provides a peaceful and eco-friendly retirement option. The country’s “pura vida” lifestyle encourages a stress-free and fulfilling way of life.

5. Kyoto, Japan

Rich in history and culture, Kyoto offers retirees a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern comforts. With its well-preserved temples, traditional tea houses, and stunning cherry blossoms, Kyoto provides a serene and contemplative retirement experience. The city’s emphasis on health and longevity, along with its efficient public services, adds to the appeal for retirees seeking a peaceful and culturally rich environment.

6. Barcelona, Spain

A vibrant city on the shores of the Mediterranean, Barcelona combines historic charm with a lively cosmopolitan atmosphere. With its stunning architecture, world-class cuisine, and a plethora of cultural activities, Barcelona provides retirees with a dynamic and culturally enriching retirement experience. The mild climate and friendly locals contribute to a relaxed and enjoyable lifestyle.

7. Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast, with its dramatic cliffs, charming villages, and crystal-clear waters, offers retirees a Mediterranean retreat of unparalleled beauty. The region’s delectable cuisine, including fresh seafood and lemon-infused dishes, combined with a mild climate and breathtaking views, creates a perfect setting for a leisurely retirement by the sea.

8. Bali, Indonesia

Bali’s lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and tranquil beaches make it an exotic and serene retirement destination. With a cost of living that allows for a comfortable lifestyle, retirees can immerse themselves in the island’s spiritual ambiance, explore ancient temples, and enjoy a warm and welcoming local community.

9. Maui, Hawaii, USA

Known as the “Valley Isle,” Maui offers retirees a slice of tropical paradise with its diverse landscapes, including volcanic craters, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches. The Hawaiian culture, aloha spirit, and a wide range of outdoor activities contribute to a laid-back retirement lifestyle, while the stunning sunsets over the Pacific Ocean add to the island’s allure.

10. Cape Town, South Africa

Perched at the southern tip of the African continent, Cape Town is a retirement destination that combines natural beauty with cultural richness. With its iconic Table Mountain, diverse wildlife, and a vibrant arts scene, retirees in Cape Town can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle against a backdrop of stunning landscapes and a diverse array of experiences.

11. Swiss Alps, Switzerland

For retirees seeking the tranquility of mountain living, the Swiss Alps offer pristine landscapes, charming alpine villages, and a high standard of living. With a focus on outdoor activities like skiing and hiking, along with a well-developed healthcare system, retirees can enjoy a healthy and serene retirement in the heart of Europe.

12. Provence, France

Provence, with its lavender fields, vineyards, and historic villages, is a picturesque region that beckons retirees with its charm and tranquility. The Mediterranean climate, exquisite cuisine, and a rich cultural heritage create an inviting atmosphere for those looking to savor the joys of retirement amidst the beauty of southern France.

13. Vancouver, Canada

Nestled between mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver offers retirees a perfect blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. The city’s diverse cultural scene, excellent healthcare, and access to outdoor activities, including hiking and skiing, make it an attractive destination for a retirement that balances city life with the serenity of the great outdoors.

14. Maldives

For retirees seeking a tropical paradise with overwater bungalows and turquoise lagoons, the Maldives is a dream retirement destination. With its coral reefs, white-sand beaches, and a laid-back atmosphere, this island nation provides a luxurious and peaceful setting for those looking to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the Indian Ocean.

15. Sydney, Australia

Sydney, with its iconic harbor, stunning beaches, and vibrant city life, offers retirees a diverse and dynamic retirement experience. The city’s cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and a mild climate contribute to a lifestyle that combines urban sophistication with the natural beauty of Australia’s landscapes.

16. Sedona, Arizona, USA

Nestled amidst the red rock formations of Arizona, Sedona is a haven for retirees seeking a peaceful and spiritually rich environment. Known for its energy vortexes and breathtaking scenery, Sedona offers a unique retirement experience with outdoor activities, artistic pursuits, and a laid-back lifestyle in the heart of the American Southwest.

17. Napa Valley, California, USA

Nestled in California’s wine country, Napa Valley offers retirees a picturesque landscape of rolling vineyards, charming wineries, and gourmet cuisine. With a Mediterranean climate, cultural events, and a focus on the art of winemaking, Napa Valley provides a sophisticated and leisurely retirement experience.

18. Charleston, South Carolina, USA

Charleston’s historic charm, cobblestone streets, and antebellum architecture create a picturesque backdrop for retirees. With a rich cultural scene, Southern hospitality, and proximity to the coast, Charleston provides a relaxed retirement environment where retirees can enjoy the unique blend of history, culinary delights, and coastal living.

19. Patagonia, Argentina/Chile

Spanning both Argentina and Chile, Patagonia is a vast and untamed region that offers retirees an escape into nature’s grandeur. With towering mountains, pristine lakes, and glaciers, Patagonia provides a serene and remote retirement experience for those seeking solitude amidst some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes.

20. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora, with its overwater bungalows, turquoise lagoons, and coral reefs, is a tropical paradise tailor-made for a luxurious retirement. Surrounded by the South Pacific’s beauty, retirees can indulge in a leisurely lifestyle, water-based activities, and the tranquility of this idyllic island destination.

21. Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve region in Portugal boasts golden beaches, charming fishing villages, and a Mediterranean climate, making it an attractive retirement destination. With a low cost of living, excellent healthcare, and a relaxed pace of life, retirees can savor the beauty of the Atlantic coastline and the cultural richness of Portugal.

22. Lake Como, Italy

Nestled in the Italian Alps, Lake Como is renowned for its picturesque lakeside villas, charming towns, and scenic landscapes. Retirees can enjoy the tranquility of lakeside living, explore historic villas and gardens, and immerse themselves in the refined elegance of one of Italy’s most enchanting destinations.

23. Banff, Canada

Situated in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff offers retirees a mountainous paradise with pristine lakes, snow-capped peaks, and abundant wildlife. Whether it’s skiing in winter or hiking in summer, Banff provides an active retirement lifestyle surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Canadian wilderness.

24. Phuket, Thailand

Phuket, with its vibrant culture, tropical beaches, and lush landscapes, is a retirement haven in Southeast Asia. Retirees can indulge in Thai cuisine, explore ancient temples, and enjoy a warm climate while experiencing the unique blend of relaxation and excitement that Phuket has to offer.

25. Big Sur, California, USA

Perched along the rugged coastline of California, Big Sur captivates retirees with its dramatic cliffs, redwood forests, and panoramic ocean views. A haven for artists, nature lovers, and those seeking solitude, Big Sur provides a serene and awe-inspiring retirement environment on the Pacific Coast.

26. Santander, Spain

Santander, located on the northern coast of Spain, charms retirees with its elegant architecture, scenic beaches, and historic landmarks. With a mild maritime climate, a rich cultural scene, and a welcoming atmosphere, Santander offers a tranquil retirement by the Bay of Biscay.

Belize, with its Caribbean coastline, lush rainforests, and diverse marine life, provides retirees with a tropical paradise. The laid-back atmosphere, English-speaking locals, and a variety of outdoor activities, including snorkeling and exploring ancient Mayan ruins, make Belize an ideal retirement destination in Central America.

28. Blue Ridge Mountains, USA

The Blue Ridge Mountains, spanning across the eastern United States, offer retirees a serene retreat with rolling hills, scenic overlooks, and charming mountain communities. With a focus on outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, the Blue Ridge Mountains provide a tranquil retirement environment away from the hustle and bustle.

29. Seychelles

Situated in the Indian Ocean, Seychelles is an archipelago of stunning islands known for their white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and unique flora and fauna. Retirees can enjoy a luxurious island lifestyle, with crystal-clear waters and a diverse marine environment, creating a paradise for those seeking a tropical retirement.

30. Cairns, Australia

Cairns, located in tropical North Queensland, is surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef, lush rainforests, and the Atherton Tablelands. Retirees can experience the wonders of the reef, explore the Daintree Rainforest, and enjoy a laid-back lifestyle in a region known for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

31. Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a collection of five colorful villages nestled along the rugged Italian Riviera. Retirees can embrace a coastal lifestyle, explore charming seaside towns, and enjoy the stunning cliffside views, making Cinque Terre a picturesque retirement destination.

32. Key West, Florida, USA

Key West, the southernmost point of the United States, offers retirees a unique blend of island living and vibrant cultural experiences. With its historic architecture, coral reefs for snorkeling, and a lively arts scene, Key West provides a relaxed and eclectic retirement environment in the warm subtropical climate.

33. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage site on the Adriatic Sea, enchants retirees with its well-preserved medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and stunning coastal views. With a rich history, vibrant culture, and a Mediterranean climate, Dubrovnik offers a unique retirement experience in the heart of the Balkans.

34. Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg, surrounded by the Austrian Alps, is a city rich in history, music, and Baroque architecture. Retirees can enjoy a cultural haven with classical music concerts, explore historic sites like Hohensalzburg Fortress, and savor the beauty of this charming city on the banks of the Salzach River.

35. Aix-en-Provence, France

Aix-en-Provence, nestled in the Provence region, enchants retirees with its elegant boulevards, lively markets, and a warm Mediterranean climate. With its artistic heritage, picturesque landscapes, and charming cafes, Aix-en-Provence provides a culturally rich and inviting retirement setting.

36. Grand Tetons, Wyoming, USA

The Grand Tetons, towering over the Jackson Hole valley, offer retirees a pristine mountain retreat with alpine lakes, meandering rivers, and abundant wildlife. Retirees can embrace outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife watching while enjoying the breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

37. Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand

Aoraki / Mount Cook, the highest peak in New Zealand, is surrounded by the Southern Alps and pristine alpine landscapes. Retirees can enjoy the tranquility of mountain living, explore hiking trails, and stargaze in one of the world’s International Dark Sky Reserves, making it an ideal retirement destination for nature lovers.

38. Malaga, Spain

Malaga, on the Costa del Sol, captivates retirees with its historic landmarks, Mediterranean beaches, and a vibrant cultural scene. With its mild climate, excellent cuisine, and a relaxed pace of life, Malaga provides a sunny and welcoming environment for retirees on the southern coast of Spain.

39. Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt, nestled at the foot of the Matterhorn, is a car-free mountain village surrounded by the Swiss Alps. Retirees can enjoy the tranquility of alpine living, skiing in winter, hiking in summer, and breathtaking views of one of the most iconic peaks in the Swiss Alps.

40. Cape Cod, Massachusetts, USA

Cape Cod, with its charming seaside towns, lighthouses, and sandy beaches, is a classic New England destination for retirees. The Cape’s maritime heritage, scenic landscapes, and cultural events offer a relaxed retirement by the Atlantic Ocean.

As we conclude this exploration of 40 captivating retirement destinations, it becomes clear that the world is a canvas of possibilities for those seeking a harmonious retirement experience. Whether drawn to the historic charm of Salzburg, the tropical allure of Belize, or the serene landscapes of the Blue Ridge Mountains, each destination offers a distinct tapestry for retirees to weave their dreams. Ultimately, the most beautiful retirement destination is one that resonates with personal preferences, providing a backdrop for a fulfilling and enriching journey into the golden years.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grab a coffee at Belle Époque in Miaouli Square.

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

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

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

Take a dip at Ciel Syros.

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

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

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

Window shop in the streets of Ano Syros.

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

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

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

Get a cocktail at Theosis.

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

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

Catch a show at the Apollon Theater.

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

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

Spend the day lounging at Ono Concept beach club.

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

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

Tour Chatzakis Winery.

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

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

Enjoy dinner and a sunset at Allou Yialou.

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

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

Stay at one of many converted neoclassical houses.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Moscow Metro – Part 2

Have you been to Moscow ? In all seriousness, they have the prettiest metro stations I have ever seen and I still can’t believe how immaculate and lovely every station was. There are several different stations pictured below and this is the second of several posts where I will show you the beauty of the Moscow Metro. Did you see part 1 ?  There really isn’t much to say because I think the pictures speak for themselves. I have so many more pictures to share with you!

Have you ever been to Moscow? Is it someplace you have thought about visiting?

She speaks fluent English, French and Spanish, and works for a major airline. And guess what? She’s also a licensed elementary teacher and has an MBA.

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This is the train STATION?? Oh my god… So gorgeous. Moscow has never even crossed my mind as a possible travel destination but this is gorgeous…Hmmm… LOL

I know, right? We spent several hours in the metro, just marveling at the beauty of each one. Thanks for stopping by!

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Claudia Looi

Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

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