The Ultimate Guide to Santorini, Greece

Santorini is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece, and for good reason. With its dramatic cliffs, white and blue houses, and stunning sunsets, it’s easy to see why people are drawn to this island.

However, don’t let Santorini’s beauty deceive you – it’s not all just a pretty face. The island has plenty to offer first-time travelers, from great restaurants and bars to stunning beaches and fascinating history.

From where to stay and what to see, to the best restaurants and bars – Here’s everything you need to know about visiting this Aegean gem.

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What to expect in Santorini?

Before you go, it’s important to know what to expect from Santorini.

Language

The main language spoken in Santorini is Greek. However, you will find that many people on the island also speak English, especially in tourist areas.

Weather

The weather in Santorini is mild and sunny most of the year. The summer months (June-August) are typically the busiest and most crowded, as well as the hottest, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F).

Currency

The currency in Santorini (like the rest of Greece) is the Euro (€).

Credit cards & ATMs

You can use credit cards in Santorini and there are some ATMs available to make withdrawals, but most places prefer cash. Sometimes, ATV rentals and excursion booking companies will even offer you a discount if you pay in cash, so definitely make sure to have some on hand.

Cost

On average, you can expect to spend around €100-€150 per day in Santorini, depending on your budget and what you want to do. This includes food, drinks, transportation, and sightseeing.

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory in Greece, but it is always appreciated. A good rule of thumb is to round up your bill to the nearest Euro or leave a few Euros if you’re happy with the service.

Electricity

The voltage in Santorini (and the rest of Greece) is 220 volts, so remember to pack a converter if you’re coming from a country with a lower voltage. A standard EU converter will do the trick.

Safety

In general, Santorini is a safe place to visit. However, as with any popular tourist destination, there are always a few things to keep in mind to stay safe.

Firstly, watch your belongings and don’t leave them unattended in busy areas. Secondly, be aware of your surroundings at night and stick to well-lit areas.

Finally, beware of pickpockets – especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.

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When to visit Santorini?

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

If you’re looking for warm weather and sunny skies, then the peak season from May to October is your best bet.

However, if you’re looking for a bit of a discount and don’t mind cooler temperatures, then the off-season from November to April may be a better option.

Keep in mind that these are also the shoulder seasons, so some businesses may be closed and there may be fewer tourists around. There is always the chance of rain during the winter months, so pack accordingly.

Getting to Santorini

There are three main ways to get to Santorini: by plane, ferry, or cruise ship.

Plane

The majority of people who visit Santorini arrive by plane, as there are multiple direct flights from Athens and other major cities in Europe. If you’re coming from Athens, there are several flights a day that will take you to Santorini’s airport (JTR). The flight time from Athens is about an hour.

Ferry

If you’re coming from another island in Greece, then the best way to get to Santorini is by ferry. There are multiple ferries that depart from Athens and other islands daily. The ferry ride from Athens to Santorini takes about 8 hours.

Cruise

Finally, another option for getting to Santorini is by cruise ship. While this isn’t the most common way to get to the island, it is an option for those who are already taking a cruise of the Greek Islands.

Cost of traveling to Santorini

Ticket prices vary depending on the time of year and airline, but you can expect to pay around $100-$200 USD for a round-trip flight from Athens.

If you’re coming from another Greek island, there are also ferries that run daily to Santorini. The journey is much longer (around 7 hours), but it is a cheaper option, with tickets costing around $30-$40 USD.

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Getting around in Santorini

The best way to get around on the island of Santorini is by renting an ATV or a car. This will give you the most flexibility and allow you to explore the island at your own pace.

Car/ATV Rental

You can rent a car from the airport or in town, and prices start at around €25 per day. If you’re renting an ATV, prices start at around €40 per day.

Keep in mind that some of the roads on Santorini are quite narrow and winding, so if you’re not comfortable driving in these conditions, it’s best to stick to renting a car.

Bus

There are also public buses that run between the major towns on the island, but they are not as frequent as in Athens. The cost of a bus ticket is around 1-2 Euros.

Taxi

Taxis are also available on the island, but they are quite expensive. A taxi from the airport to Fira (the capital) will cost around 25 Euros.

Where to stay in Santorini

There are a wide range of accommodation options on Santorini, from backpacker hostels to luxury resorts.

Fira is the most popular town to stay in on the island and has the widest range of accommodation options. However, keep in mind that it is also the most expensive. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, consider staying in Oia or Imerovigli.

Airbnb is also a popular option here, with prices starting at around $50 per night.

Accommodation in Fira

Budget Mid-range Luxury Budget

Anna Pension Hostel

If you’re traveling on a budget and looking for affordable accommodation in Fira, try Anna Pension Hostel, located in a small village called Karterádos, only about 1.5km from Fira.

A private room in this hostel typically goes for around €38/night in the off season, but can increase slightly in peak season.

Book a room at Anna Pension Hostel Mid-range

Astir Thira Hotel

If you’re looking for a stay at a mid-range price point, the Astir Thira Hotel could be a good option for you.

A single room here typically runs for around €80-90/night, but can go up to €100 or more depending on demand and time of year.

Book a room at Astir Thira Hotel Luxury

Cavo Tagoo Santorini

If you’ve got a little more money to spend and looking for luxury accommodation near Fira, Cavo Tagoo Santorini is a popular choice.

A junior suite in this 5-star hotel will run you between €870-1200/night, depending on the season.

Book a stay at Cavo Tagoo Santorini

Accommodation in Oia

Budget Mid-range Luxury Budget

Mare Nostrum Santo Hotel

If you’re traveling on a budget and looking for affordable accommodation in Oia, try the Mare Nostrum Santo hotel.

A private room in this hotel typically goes for around €65/night in the off season, but can increase slightly in peak season.

Book a room at the Mare Nostrum Santo hotel

Mid-range

Laokasti Villas

If you’re looking for a stay at a mid-range price point, the Laokasti Villas could be a good option for you.

A single room here typically runs for around €100/night, but can go up depending on demand and time of year.

Book a room at Laokasti Villas

Luxury

Adorno Suites

If you’ve got a little more money to spend and are looking for luxury accommodation in Oia, the Adorno Suites is a popular choice.

A junior suite in this 5-star hotel will run you between €270-350/night, depending on the season.

Book a room at Adorno Suites

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Where to eat in Santorini

When it comes to places to eat in Santorini, you’re spoiled for choice. The island has a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and bars to suit all budgets and tastes.

Restaurants to try in Santorini

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Santo Athiri Restaurant

Looking for a restaurant in Santorini that won’t break the bank?

Head to Santo Athiri for traditional Greek dishes, delicious drinks and great atmosphere.

Read the Santo Athiri reviews on TripAdvisor

Sea View Restaurant

For a mid-range budget restaurant option, check out Sea View Restaurant for traditional Mediterranean and seafood dishes.

Read the Sea View Restaurant reviews on TripAdvisor

$$$

Kapari Wine Restaurant

If you’re willing to spend some money and looking for a fine dining experience in Santorini, opt for a reservation at Kapari Wine Restaurant.

Read the Kapari Wine Restaurant reviews on TripAdvisor

If you’re looking for a cheap meal, there are plenty of fast food options and casual eateries around the island. One of the best restaurants for cheap dining in Santorini is Kouzina in Fira. It offers traditional Greek food at a fraction of the price you would pay in other restaurants.

For a more traditional Greek experience, try one of the many tavernas that serve up delicious Greek food.

If you’re looking for something a bit more upmarket, then Oia is the best place to eat on Santorini. For a truly special dining experience, you can’t go wrong with one of Oia’s many fine-dining restaurants.

There are a number of excellent restaurants in this town, serving everything from traditional Greek cuisine to international dishes. These restaurants offer breathtaking views of the Caldera, as well as exquisite cuisine. Just be prepared to pay a bit more for this experience.

Santorini nightlife

Santorini is known for its lively nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs to keep you entertained. Whether you’re looking for a quiet drink or a party until the early hours of the morning, Santorini has something for everyone.

Nightlife in Fira

Fira is the best place to go if you’re looking for a good time, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from.

Koo Club is probably the most popular spot for more hardcore nightlife in Santorini. Koo Club plays top chart hits, EDM, electronica, techno, and dance until late in the night (the official closing time is 4am).

Koo club, Fira, Santorini Engima nightclub, Fira, Santorini

Another popular nightclub in Fira is Enigma, which attracts a young and trendy crowd. Enigma has a more relaxed atmosphere than Koo Club and plays a mix of commercial pop and hip-hop music.

Nightlife in Oia

If you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, head to Oia, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Caldera while sipping on a glass of wine.

This sleepy town comes to life at night, with a range of bars and restaurants that offer a more relaxed atmosphere and stunning views of the Caldera. Many of these places have live music, so you can enjoy a few drinks while listening to some local talent.

What to see and do in Santorini

There are plenty of things to do and see on the island of Santorini. Here are a few of the most popular attractions:

The Caldera

This is the highlight of Santorini and one of the most beautiful sights in the world. The Caldera is the remnants of a volcanic eruption that occurred thousands of years ago.

The Beaches

Santorini has some of the best beaches in Greece, with crystal clear water and stunning views. Some of the most popular beaches include Kamari Beach, Perissa Beach, and Red Beach.

Oia

This is a picturesque village located on the northern part of the island. Oia is known for its beautiful sunsets, and it’s a great place to watch the sunset or just enjoy the views.

The archaeological site of Akrotiri

This is an ancient city that was buried by the volcanic eruption that created Santorini. The site has been excavated and is now open to the public.

Santorini wineries

There are several wineries on the island that offer tours and tastings. This is a great activity for those who enjoy wine and want to learn more about it.

Hiking

There are several trails around Santorini that offer stunning views of the island. One of the most popular trails is the Fira to Oia hike, which takes about 3 hours.

Scuba diving

Santorini has some of the best scuba diving in Greece. There are many dive sites around the island, and you can see a variety of marine life.

Shopping

There are a few good shopping areas on the island, including Fira, Oia, and Kamari. You can find a variety of souvenirs and other items here.

The Venetian Castle

This is a castle located in the town of Fira that was built by the Venetians. It’s a great place to learn about the history of Santorini and get a panoramic view of the island.

The Museum of Prehistoric Thera

This museum is located in Fira and houses artifacts from the archaeological site of Akrotiri. It’s a great place to learn about the history of Santorini and see some of the artifacts that have been found on the island.

The cable car

This is a popular attraction in Fira that takes you up to the top of the cliffs. It’s a great way to get a panoramic view of the island and see the Caldera.

The hot springs

There are several hot springs on Santorini, and they’re a great way to relax and enjoy the views.

Catch the sunset at Oia

Santorini is known for its beautiful sunsets, and there are many places to watch the sunset. One of the best places to watch the sunset is from Oia.

Frequently asked questions

How far is Santorini from Mykonos?

The island of Santorini is about 80km from the island of Mykonos. The flight time from Santorini to Mykonos is about 45 minutes. You can also get to Santorini from Mykonos by ferry, which takes about 2 hours.

How far is Santorini from Athens?

The island of Santorini is about 500km from the city of Athens. The flight time from Santorini to Athens is about 1 hour and 30 minutes. You can also take the ferry between the two cities, which will take about 8 hours.

Is Santorini a good place for families?

Santorini is a great place for families. The island has a lot of things to do and see, and the beaches are great for kids.

Is Santorini a good place for couples?

Santorini is a great place for couples and is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in the world. The romantic atmosphere and stunning views make it a perfect place for couples.

How many days should I stay in Santorini?

Depending on what you plan to see and do in Santorini, you may need anywhere from 2 to 5 days. If you’re just interested in beaches and relaxation, then 2 or 3 days should be enough. If you want to do some sightseeing, then you’ll need 4 or 5 days.

How to get a Covid test in Santorini?

If you need to have a covid test done while in Santorini, you can go to the local health center. They will be able to do the test and provide you with the results. You can also schedule a COVID testing appointment online at any of the nearby labs on the island.

When is Santorini closed?

Santorini is open all year round. However, some businesses may be closed during the winter months. Restaurants, cafes, shops, etc. may also have different opening and closing hours depending on the season.

What are the best things to do in Santorini?

There is no definitive answer to this question as everyone’s interests are different. However, some of the most popular activities on the island include visiting archaeological sites, exploring wineries, hiking, and watching the sunset.

Santorini or Mykonos: Which is better?

This is a difficult question to answer as both islands have their own unique charms. If you’re looking for a more secluded and quiet getaway, then Santorini is the better choice. If you’re looking for a party atmosphere and more nightlife options, then Mykonos is the better option.

Where to stay in Santorini?

The island of Santorini is divided into 3 main areas: Fira, Oia, and Perissa. Each area has its own unique personality and offers something different. Perissa is more laid-back and is great for those who want to relax on the beach, while Fira is more vibrant and is great for those who want to explore the nightlife. Oia is the most romantic area and is perfect for couples.

For an in-depth overview of the best neighborhoods to stay in Santorini, check out this article.

Tiana Thompson

Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!