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• How much does it cost to travel to Santorini? (Average Daily Cost)
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Is Santorini expensive to visit?

• How much do I need for a trip to Santorini?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to Santorini?

You should plan to spend around $191 (€175) per day on your vacation in Santorini. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $52 (€48) on meals
• $31 (€28) on local transportation
• $203 (€187) on hotels

A one week trip to Santorini for two people costs, on average, $2,668 (€2,451) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 191 € 175
• One Week Per person $ 1,334 € 1,225
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 2,668 € 2,451
• One Month Per person $ 5,716 € 5,251
• One Week For a couple $ 2,668 € 2,451
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 5,335 € 4,901
• One Month For a couple $ 11,433 € 10,503

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Santorini cost?

A one week trip to Santorini usually costs around $1,334 (€1,225) for one person and $2,668 (€2,451) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Santorini on average costs around $2,668 (€2,451) for one person and $5,335 (€4,901) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Santorini will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Santorini on average costs around $5,716 (€5,251) for one person and $11,433 (€10,503) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to Santorini has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Prices in Santorini are reasonable and comparable to your average travel destination. Hotels, food, and sightseeing are generally within normal price ranges.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Santorini is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Amsterdam or Leuven.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Santorini Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Santorini?

The average Santorini trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Santorini travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Santorini

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Santorini is $102 (€93). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Santorini is $203 (€187). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 102 € 93
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 203 € 187

Hotel Prices in Santorini

Looking for a hotel in Santorini? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in Santorini based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $152. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• Nostos Beach Hotel - Adults Only Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 57
• Katikies Santorini - The Leading Hotels Of The World Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 384

Transportation Budget in Santorini

The cost of a taxi ride in Santorini is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $31 (€28) per person, per day, on local transportation in Santorini.

• Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 31 € 28

Recommended Services

• Greek Island Ferry Tickets Ferry Scanner View Price
• Private Transfers From or To Santorini Ferry Port Viator $ 33

Flights to Santorini

Rental cars in santorini, food budget in santorini.

While meal prices in Santorini can vary, the average cost of food in Santorini is $52 (€48) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Santorini should cost around $21 (€19) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Santorini is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 52 € 48

Recommended

• Virtual Private Cooking Class Live from Santorini Viator $ 72
• Santorini Private 8 Wine Tastings with Dinner & Oia Sunset Viator $ 243

Entertainment Budget in Santorini

Entertainment and activities in Santorini typically cost an average of $39 (€36) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 39 € 36

Recommended Activities

• Half-Day Santorini Private Tour Viator $ 177
• Around Santorini - Semi Private Tour Viator $ 102

Tips and Handouts Budget in Santorini

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in Santorini is $39 (€35) per day. The usual amount for a tip in Santorini is 5% - 15% .

• Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 39 € 35

Alcohol Budget in Santorini

The average person spends about $28 (€26) on alcoholic beverages in Santorini per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 28 € 26
• Santorini Gastronomy Experience & Wine Tasting Viator $ 265
• Santorini 4-Hour Private Tour including Wine Tasting, Shore Excursion Viator $ 121

Water Budget in Santorini

On average, people spend $3.06 (€2.81) on bottled water in Santorini per day. The public water in Santorini is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 3.06 € 2.81

Related Articles

Santorini on a budget.

Neighborhoods

Food and dining, transportation, more related articles.

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• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

Is Santorini Expensive? A Santorini Trip Cost Guide

Last Updated on January 4, 2024

by Audrey Webster

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Is Santorini expensive? How much will a Santorini trip cost? These might be the questions on your mind as you consider a trip to the island.

This popular destination for tourists is well known for being a honeymoon hot spot as well as attracting an abundance of solo travelers.

The white buildings with blue dome roofs and once-in-a-lifetime sunsets are some of the features that have made the island famous.

However, there are so many parts of the island to explore–each with their unique geological feature or historic site. Taking all this into consideration means that visitors can spend any amount of money while visiting Santorini . 

When it comes down to planning for your Santorini trip, there are a few factors to take into consideration. Ask yourself what your preferences are for your visit. Would you rather spend more of your budget dining in fine restaurants or staying in a private villa with an unforgettable view?

It’s wise to start by researching what you’d like to do while there, then prioritize and build a budget. Here we’re breaking down the various average costs for a visit to Santorini, so you can budget and plan for your trip as accurately as possible. 

Table of Contents

Santorini Trip Cost Guide

Travellers to Santorini will find the city more expensive compared to many places in Greece and can expect to spend around  €95 to €385 (approximately $104-420 USD) per person per day. However, these prices will vary depending on how you choose to spread your costs across accommodation, food, transport, activities and entertainment.

Accommodation Prices

Your accommodation in Santorini is most likely a top concern when creating a budget. You’ll find the best deals when you stay in the more populous areas like Fira and Oia.

On a budget for one person, you could easily find a hostel dorm at somewhere like Caveland Hostel for around €45 per night or lower-budget hotel room starting at around €85 outside of the high season. If you choose to stay centrally in either town, you’ll most likely be paying a premium for the location.

Alternatively, you could stay a 15-minute walk from town and save. A more standard hotel room such as at Kalimera Hotel for two people averages around €130 in the shoulder season.

If you’re wanting a sunset view from your room such as at Seaside Breeze , maybe a private pool or patio, you can expect to pay upward of €250-300. There are several high-end lodging options available.

You will pay more to stay at accommodation near the popular beaches compared to the lesser-trafficked mountain towns. 

Just like with all Greek destinations, making your reservation as far in advance as possible is your best chance at finding the best deals to fit within your Santorini trip cost. You’ll also have more options available to you, so you can get your first choice on where you want to stay in Santorini. 

Transportation Prices

The first cost of transportation in Santorini comes to getting to the island itself, which can be done by either ferry or flight, depending on your preferences. In general, booking in advance is going to be a lot less expensive than booking closer to your travel date.

The best way to get around the larger towns on the island is by foot. For the days that you plan to venture to other areas of the island, consider renting a car or an ATV.

It’s very common to see ATVs throughout the island and they’re an affordable option for daily rentals. The only caveat with an ATV is they fit two people maximum unless your party has more than one person willing to drive.

They also are not the safest option, so make sure to use caution if you choose this option. Most local hotels and hostels work with local ATV rental companies, so you can sort that detail out upon arrival

If you’re traveling in a larger group, renting a car and splitting the cost might be the best option. You can rent a compact 4-person car for as little as €30 per day.

You should reserve a rental car in advance through one of the local rental companies or a larger rental company. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices.

If you choose to rent a car or an ATV, expect your average daily price for transportation in Santorini to be around €20-30 per person. 

Public transportation is an option, though it provides less flexibility than having access to your own car or ATV would. The public buses are the cheapest mode of transportation at just a couple of euros per person per ride.

There are plenty of public buses that operate throughout the island. If you choose to only rely on public transit, your costs will be significantly reduced – you can expect to pay as little as €5 per day per person.

Finally, if you’re less budget-conscious and don’t want to organise your own transport, you can take day trips around the island such as this catamaran cruise , this highlights tour and this wine tour.

Food Prices

Santorini food prices have perhaps the most variety.

You can expect breakfast prices to usually be a little cheaper than lunch and dinner. Your accommodation might also offer a small complimentary breakfast.

You can cut costs by shopping at the grocery store for lunch and having a picnic somewhere with a view instead of splurging on a nice meal out.

Breakfast at a small local bakery, including a pastry and coffee, may cost around €5 per person while a pre-packaged sandwich from the grocery store could cost around €8 per person if you include a beverage. Small cafes are also going to have more affordable prices for breakfast and lunch, but will average closer to €15 per person for a full meal.

The average cost of a meal in Santorini is about €25 per person. This usually includes an main for one person, and perhaps a small appetizer, at a mid-range restaurant. That said, you could easily spend more or less depending on how you want to allocate your food budget.

If you want a sunset-watching experience with dinner, you should plan to have one or two nice dinners out. For a high-end restaurant, including appetizers, an entree, drinks, and possibly dessert, estimate spending around €75 per person.

There are several restaurants with views of the ocean that provide their guests with both delicious food and optimal sunset-viewing seats. You might be paying more than the average meal price per person to dine at these restaurants, but it will be well worth your money for a special evening with a spectacular view. 

Activities Prices

There is no shortage of activities to do in Santorini. There are free activities like walking through villages and exploring the island’s towns.

You can also opt for guided tours to experience different sections of Santorini. For example, a guided tour of Thirassia Island such as this full-day tour might be around €60. A guided day trip to the historic villages and wine tasting such as this half-day tour could cost closer to €150 per person. 

If you’re traveling on more of a budget, you can hike from Fira to Oia and watch the sunset from Oia for free or close to free.

This will allow you to visit the stunning beaches and wander the mountain villages at a more affordable price. If you want a guided tour experience such as on this day trip , you will need a higher budget.

The amount of money you spend on activities in Santorini is entirely up to you. Make sure you set aside some of your budget to travel to other parts of the island and visit local historical museums.

Museums average around €12-15 for a single ticket. Keep in mind that often, entry prices are often reduced by half in the low season.

On average, visitors spend around €15-30 per person each day if you plan to do some guided tours and visit some museums. However, you can spend closer to €100 per person per day if you do a longer guided tour each day.

Entertainment Prices

While in Santorini, you’ll definitely want to budget some of your Santorini vacation cost for entertainment activities. This includes events, drinks, and other activities beyond your daily tours and island exploration.

At a small cafe or coffee shop, a simple cup of coffee might cost around €3 while a mid-to-high-range restaurant will charge closer to €6.

Some bars run happy hours that offer cocktails for as little as €3, but on average, restaurants and bars facing the caldera (a sunken volcano in the Aegean) price drinks around €15. At a regular restaurant or bar, expect a glass of wine to cost around €5-6 and a draft beer to be around €5.

Santorini’s nightlife largely consists of bars and restaurants with open-air seating that overlooks the ocean. The charming towns of Fira and Oia also have shops and galleries that stay open later into the evening. 

Is Santorini Expensive? Average Prices in Santorini

The good news is that visiting Santorini is feasible on a range of budgets. The island offers a wide variety of accommodations, dining, and activities to fit within budgets across the board. Your Santorini trip cost can be as personalized as your trip itself.  

For a trip to Santorini, most travelers should plan to budget for around €65-290 per person per day. This can be broken down across accommodation, transport, food, activities and entertainment as follows.

Accommodation: €45 – €150 / night

Transportation:  €5 – €30 / day

Food: €25 – €75 / day

Activities: €15 – €100 / day

Entertainment: €5 – €30 / day

Total: €95 – €385 / day

The low end of these prices would mean visiting Santorini on a budget and staying in cheaper accommodation, using public transit, eating out less and opting for affordable or free activities. The higher end will mean you can stay at some nice hotels, take some guided tours and enjoy more restaurant meals and drinks at the bar.

These prices do not include any pre-trip expenses such as airfares or travel insurance.

Visiting Santorini will be unlike anywhere you’ve been before. The island is popular among tourists, and for good reason. The white-washed walls, blue-domed roofs, and outstanding sunsets make Santorini a perfect destination for travelers of all kinds.

Creating a budget for your Santorini vacation cost in advance means you won’t have to think about planning and budgeting while visiting–simply enjoy your time exploring this beautiful Greek island.  

Are you planning to visit Santorini? Have any questions about the prices? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in Santorini Itinerary

Naxos or Paros: Which Greek Island to Visit?

8 Best Areas to Stay in Crete for Tourists

About Audrey Webster

Audrey Webster is a writer for The World Was Here First. She is an Oregon native who has visited countries across the globe and currently spends her weekends exploring the Pacific Northwest and surrounding states. Her approach to traveling combines exploring famous tourist sites and wandering off the beaten path to discover new destinations.

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Santorini Prices & Travel Costs

Santorini is among the most popular Greek islands, and it’s included here mostly as an example of what to expect from most of the dozens of popular holiday islands in the area. There are only about 15,000 year-round residents yet there are about 800 hotels, almost all of which are only open between April and October. The island has about 15 towns and villages, and hotels are found in various clusters on every corner.

Is Santorini Expensive or Cheap?

Santorini is the most popular of the scores of Greek islands, and prices are similar (more or less) on all of them. Hotels in July and August can be a bit expensive, but otherwise prices here are quite reasonable for Europe and the Mediterranean.

As you’d expect, food and drinks with a view or on the sand can be pricey, so those on smaller budgets can save money by dining and drinking across the street.

Travel Costs to Santorini

Accommodation costs in santorini.

Hotels and hostels on Santorini start at very low prices and go way up into the stratosphere from there. In other words, this island, like many other Greek islands, caters to nearly every budget. Those staying on a shoestring will get small rooms with no views and uncomfortable beds, and they’ll be eating gyros or similar foods much of the time. If you want to splurge you can get good value and often great views at the same time.

Santorini Hotel Seasons

Predictably, the peak season for hotels on Santorini is July and August, while prices are a bit lower in June and September. The lowest prices at most hotels are April, May, and October, as nearly all hotels close from November through March.

Santorini Hotel Prices

Recommended hotels, santorini hostels prices, recommended hostels, santorini attractions prices.

The main towns on Santorini are gorgeous and extremely photogenic, and the trick is to explore them when they aren’t overrun by cruise ship passengers or other tourists.

Again, most overnight visitors to the island simply come to relax in the sun during the day and enjoy a meal and drinks in the evening.

Santorini Food and Drink Prices

Local wine and beer tend to be quite cheap on Santorini, especially during the abundant happy hours.

Featured articles

Santorini transport prices, getting to santorini.

There are two ways that almost everyone uses to reach Santorini. Frequent high-speed ferries go between the Athens port of Piraeus in about 5 hours each way, and other ferries connect Santorini to other nearby and popular islands.

Santorini also has a busy airport with year-round flights from Athens and April through October flights from most larger airports all over Europe.

Getting around Santorini

Santorini has public bus service, but it’s not known for being very helpful for visitors here for a short time.

There are plenty of private companies that run shuttles between the towns and attractions, and taxis as well.

You can take scheduled ferry/boat service between many of the port towns for some nice views at a reasonable price.

When to visit Santorini

Temperature and rainfall, santorini weather advice.

Santorini has a warm and very dry summer, and quite a pleasant spring and autumn for those looking for smaller crowds. The winter weather gets a bit wet, but the main challenge is that most hotels and shops are closed anyway.

Sunrise and sunset

Where to go before and after.

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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

Cost of a Trip to Santorini, GR & the Cheapest Time to Visit Santorini

The average price of a 7-day trip to Santorini is $4,004 for a solo traveler, $7,191 for a couple, and $13,481 for a family of 4 . Santorini hotels range from $58 to $238 per night with an average of $137, while most vacation rentals will cost $190 to $1060 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Nikos Kazantzakis Airport ( HER ) are between $806 and $5,065 per person for economy flights and $2,529 to $15,894 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $59 to $123 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Santorini, GR

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to HER and stay in a Santorini hotel:

• April 23rd to October 21st

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Santorini is usually late September .

Average Santorini Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Santorini for a week is $1,361-$7,037 ($194-$1,005 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $59 to $123 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $468 to $4,508 for economy

Lodging : $80 to $108 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $228 to $278 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Santorini for a week is $2,918-$13,520 ($417-$1,931 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $118 to $246 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $936 to $9,016 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Santorini for a week is $4,484-$24,146 ($641-$3,449 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $236 to $492 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,872 to $18,032 for economy

Lodging : $160 to $216 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $319 to $445 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Santorini

How cheap can you make a vacation to Santorini? The cheapest trip to Santorini is about $139 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 0% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $148 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $51.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Santorini for a week is $970-$6,035 ($139-$862 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $28 to $57 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $51 to $58 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $148 to $188 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Santorini for a week is $1,634-$10,942 ($233-$1,563 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $56 to $114 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Santorini for a week is $3,268-$21,206 ($467-$3,029 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $112 to $228 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $102 to $116 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $237 to $263 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is very difficult to travel to Santorini cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Santorini Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Santorini.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Santorini for a week is $3,328-$27,915 ($475-$3,988 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $124 to $258 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,320 to $13,389 for first class

Lodging : $190 to $238 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $1,060 to $2,120 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Santorini for a week is $5,516-$43,110 ($788-$6,159 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $248 to $516 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,640 to $26,778 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Santorini for a week is $11,032-$79,860 ($1,576-$11,409 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $496 to $1,032 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $5,280 to $53,556 for first class

Lodging : $380 to $476 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $1,484 to $3,180 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Santorini Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Santorini is much higher than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Santorini due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Santorini Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Santorini hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Santorini.

Flight Costs to Santorini

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $5,065 average in early to mid March to a low of $806 in late September. Median flight price is $1,124. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Santorini our data includes 158 originating airports, and 118 airlines. The area has much more variance in price compared with other locations. Flying to Santorini from an airport like Henry E. Rohlsen ( STX ) in Christiansted, VI (the United States) for an average $5,924 trip fare will obviously cost a lot more than from an airport like Eleftherios Venizelos International ( ATH ) in Athens (Greece) at an average of just $130.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Saturday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Saturday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Santorini, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $4,258, so you can easily save about 528% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Santorini can easily cost $430 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $28 per person. Private tours can cost $851 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Santorini Guides

Travel costs nearby.

• Santorini Island, Greece
• Ios, Greece
• Anafi, Greece
• Koufonisia, Greece
• Folegandros, Greece
• Amorgos, Greece
• Naxos, Greece
• Antiparos, Greece
• Paros, Greece
• Cyclades Islands, Greece

Travel Costs in Popular Places

• Hakuba, Japan
• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Sapa, Vietnam

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What Does a Santorini Trip Cost? A Full Rundown

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you buy or book through one of these links, I may earn a small commission .

Santorini is one of the world’s dreamiest destinations, but can you afford the cost of a trip to this famous Greek island? To be honest, I was intimidated by this same question, and waited seven years to finally book my trip. However, you can believe me when I tell you that Santorini was totally worth the wait.

Is Santorini cheap? I wouldn’t quite say that; it’s certainly a place where one could spend a lot of money. That said, there are ways to save in this luxurious destination.

Personally, I couldn’t picture going to Santorini after a seven year delay and not having the sapphire blue panorama of the Aegean in sight. Therefore, we splurged a little on our room, without going too crazy. Of course, where you stay is just part of the equation, albeit a potentially large part.

Below, I am providing a complete picture of exactly what my husband, Aaron, and I spent over three days in Santorini. I’ll be sure to specify the areas where you can save money, as well as all the worthy splurges. Let’s get into it!

Here is my actual Santorini Trip Cost (in USD):

The above shows our actual expenses paid for three days in Santorini. Our budget was not on a shoestring, but was not luxurious either.

There are many factors that could make our actual expenses higher or lower than yours will be, which I am discussing below. For each category, I will suggest ways to cut costs, as well as recommend a few splurges. After all, when exploring a place as epic as Santorini, it’s okay to treat yo’self a little.

Travel Savvy Tip

Don’t look at this budget as a lump sum! That’s the quickest way to get intimidated and assume Santorini is unattainable. The truth is, you won’t pay the full amount at once. You’ll buy your flight and lodging right away, and then likely pay nothing for a few months.

Once the trip gets closer, you’ll start looking at tours you may want to do, as well as make restaurant reservations. When you get back home from your trip, you’ll pay off any remaining vacay expenses you’ve incurred.

Breaking it into chunks like this is a much more approachable way to afford the cost of a trip to Santorini!

Santorini Trip Cost Breakdown:

The Cycladic island of Santorini has its own airport and can be reached via plane. However, you’ll most likely need to board a connecting flight in Athens first. This extra connection will unfortunately make your Santorini trip cost a little higher.

Here is what the $1,851.53 that my husband and I spent includes:

• $1139.18 for my flight from Cleveland, OH to Athens; credit card points covered my husband’s entire flight. Fares to Athens from the US vary greatly, but are typically a lot cheaper when taking a direct flight from hubs like Newark or DC.
• $494 in extra fees to upgrade our red eye flights to United Premium Economy. This splurge made our nine-hour flight a lot more comfortable.
• $218.35 to fly from Athens to Santorini. These flights were one-way because we ferried to Naxos next. However, depending on your travel date, time, and airline, it’s possible to find round trip flights to Santorini at similar prices.

To find the best flight deals, I recommend comparing prices for different days on Google Flights or Skyscanner .

Additionally, if you don’t mind a slower mode of travel, it could be cheaper to ferry between Athens and Santorini . Just keep in mind that the ferry could take up to seven or eight hours vs a forty-five minute flight.

Solo travelers should budget around $1,200 total for airfare; everyone should read the below tips to avoid overpaying for flights:

• Be flexible with your travel days, as weekend flights can be crazy expensive. Play around with searching different departure and arrival days, and you’ll be amazed what a difference that can make.
• Travel during the low season (November through March), when there is an overall drop in prices.
• Last but not least, the tip that has helped me the most:  Sign up for a credit card with travel rewards points. We’ve gotten countless free flights thanks to our cards, simply due to points earned on every day purchases. We’ve had great experiences using both the  Capital One Venture  and the  Chase Sapphire Reserve .

Transportation

Getting around Santorini isn’t difficult. The villages are very walkable; I loved that Fira was just a scenic thirty-minute stroll from Imerovigli.

Public Transportation

Visitors can reach places too far to walk via taxi or an inexpensive bus ride . The villages along the caldera, including Oia, Imerovigli, Firostefani, and Fira are particularly well-connected by bus. My husband and I only took the bus once, paying $3.78 (cash only) to get back to our hotel after hiking three hours from Imerovigli to Oia.

Additionally, after dropping off our rental car at the end of the trip, we still needed a ride to the port to catch our ferry to Naxos . Therefore, we paid $41.30 to let a taxi take us down the winding switchback road to the port.

While not necessary, we decided to rent a car for our trip at $352.07. We did love the flexibility that it gave us, but mostly, we were apprehensive about using public transportation in the general environment of fall 2021. That said, the car proved very useful for visiting hard to reach wineries, like Art Space , which does not take large bus tours.

Generally, parking was free everywhere we went, save for the $8.26 we paid to park at Kamari Beach. We also spent $17.78 on gas, and should have spent $20 on an international driving permit, but forgot. You legally must have an international driving permit, so make sure you get one at your local AAA before your trip.

Solo travelers renting a vehicle will spend roughly the same as the above total.

You could easily spend a lot of money on a hotel on Santorini, especially if you want to stay in romantic Oia. For me, a room with a caldera and sunset view was nonnegotiable; Santorini had been on my bucket list for far too long to settle for anything less.

That’s why we chose to stay at the Afroessa Hotel in tiny Imerovigli, where we could more easily afford a room with a balcony. Our space was small, so we were mostly paying for the location, but for me it was totally worth it. I spent all my mornings and evenings on the balcony, either sipping coffee or Greek wine.

Visiting Santorini on a tighter budget? Here are my tips for finding lower-priced stays:

• Avoid Oia. Famous for its incredible sunset views, Oia tends to run a bit more high-end.
• Consider booking a room without a view. If you are still within walking distance of great sea views, maybe you won’t mind not seeing them directly from your room.
• Stay outside of town. It might mean a fifteen to twenty-minute walk into Fira, but you’ll find chic stays, like Emerald Collection Suites , at more affordable prices.
• Consider staying on the eastern-facing beach side of the island. Away from the famous white-washed towns that spill out towards the Aegean, you can often find more budget-friendly lodging options. Only in Santorini could staying near a beach be considered a sacrifice.

Solo travelers would spend roughly the same as the above amount for a similar hotel room during shoulder season.

If you are staying in a hotel on Santorini, you won’t need too many groceries, but I can guarantee you’ll at least buy bottled water. This is because the island has no fresh water supply, and many villages are not even connected to a public water system. Cheap bottled water makes up for the limited tap water availability, although it’s obviously not ideal for the environment.

If you choose to stay in an Airbnb or similar, it might make sense to purchase additional breakfast, lunch or snack foods. While I always recommend eating the local cuisine as often as possible, preparing your own food can definitely save money. Just keep in mind that groceries on an island – especially produce – will often cost more than what you may be used to.

Aaron and I also purchased some sunscreen and other personal products from the tiny mini market near the Afroessa Hotel. That summer sun is strong in Santorini, so be sure to protect yourself!

Solo travelers should budget around $25 for groceries, assuming you don’t plan to dine in much.

Food & Drink

During our three days in Santorini, Aaron and I did not shy away from eating all the local food we could. All the seafood, olives, bread, and cheese we ate tasted so fresh, and I think I actually lost weight. That “Mediterranean diet” is no joke!

The $406.40 we spent has more to do with our frequency of dining out, rather than eating anywhere extravagant. For example, we often bought coffee several times a day; especially during our strolls along the caldera.

Unsurprisingly, it’s easy to overpay for food and drink in glamorous Santorini. Our money went the furthest when we ordered from small, local establishments, like dinner at MamaLena and gyros from Let’s Eat in Imerovigli. Our most expensive dining experiences were at tourist heavy places: dinner with a caldera view, brunch in Oia, and lunch at Perissa Beach.

Basically, the more local and away from the tourist scene you go, the better dining prices you are likely to find.

Solo travelers can expect to spend at least half of the above total. I personally would spend even less than that, since I hardly drink when traveling alone.

There are two experiences on Santorini that are worth the splurge: a sunset caldera cruise and a winery tour . The dreamy caldera cruise might not surprise you, but maybe you didn’t know that Santorini has some excellent wineries? The tastings feature local dry white wines, which have unique flavor profiles thanks to grapes grown in the island’s volcanic soil.

Since Aaron and I rented a car, we opted to check out a few wineries ourselves rather than pay for the tour. Art Space had our favorite wine, while Argyros and Santo offered lovely scenery. Santo during sunset is a must!

One more activity you might want to add is a tour of ancient Akrotiri . Aaron and I ran out of time for this, but a visit to these extensive ruins is something I would prioritize on a return trip.

Finally, take advantage of these epic free things to do in Santorini:

• Watch the sunset over the caldera
• Hike along the caldera to Fira or Oia
• Hike to Skaros Rock
• Go to the beach (but be prepared to at least pay for drinks if you want a beach chair)
• People watch: from “influencers in the wild” to weddings and proposals, there is plenty of action to witness.

Santorini Trip Cost: Miscellaneous Expenses

• Shopping: $164.39 You’ll probably see many things you want to buy in Santorini, be it wine, jewelry, or whatever. Just be careful that you don’t blow your budget! Our purchase consisted of sunglasses and beach towels.
• Cell Phone: $40 You may have to pay for an international plan to make sure your phone works during your trip. Under my plan with Verizon, I pay $10 for every day I use cellular data abroad. It’s a bit pricey, but worth it for how often I rely on my phone for Google Maps and last minute restaurant searches. When I travel with Aaron, he keeps his phone on airplane mode so that we only pay this price for one person.
• Pet Boarding: $160 While it’s ideal to have a friend or family member watch your pet for free, that isn’t always possible. When Aaron and I travel together, we always pay to board our dog in a cozy little “suite” at his vet office.
• Tips: $33.04 Tipping in Santorini is not required, and 10% is usually the max. Often times, it’s common to simply round to the nearest euro, and some restaurants may automatically do this. Our caldera cruise and taxi ride to the ferry are two instances where we chose to tip.

We’ve reached the end of my Santorini trip cost deep dive, and it’s time to book your trip! It took us seven years, but I’m so glad my husband and I finally made the effort to visit Greece.

There are many ways to make a Santorini vacation more affordable, from using credit card points to staying outside the main tourist areas. Regardless, it is money well spent on amazing memories exploring this legendary Cycladic island.

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Santorini on a Budget – The Ultimate Guide for 2024

Looking to visit Santorini on a budget? Santorini may be known as being a luxury destination, but it can also be a budget friendly destination. Check out this guide for how to have an incredible trip to one of Greece’s top destinations while on a budget!

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Find Affordable Accommodation: Booking.com or Expedia Book Tours or Excursions: Viator or Get Your Guide Find the Best Deal on Rental Cars: Discover Cars

Why Visit Santorini for a Budget Trip?

Santorini is a beautiful Greek island in the Aegean sea, known for its dramatic landscape and stunning sunsets. Atop Santorini’s gorgeous cliffs are beautiful white cave houses with blue dome churches.

So why visit Santorini? Santorini is a bucket list destination in Europe, and Santorini’s popularity is rising amongst travelers across the globe. Santorini is a volcanic island with stunning views. After traveling around the world, Santorini is still one of the top most beautiful places I have ever seen.

Is Santorini Cheap?

As one of Europe’s most famous destinations, Santorini is typically not cheap . However, the good news is that any destination can be made into a budget trip – if you plan it right.

There are many aspects to consider for planning a budget trip to Greece, from accommodation, to transportation, to things to do, to saving money on eating and drinking. This comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to plan a budget trip to Santorini.

Things to do in Santorini on a budget

One of the most important ways to keep your trip to Santorini budget friendly (but still amazing) is to find free or cheap things to do! Santorini offers plenty of these free and cheap activities that will ensure your trip is amazing.

9 Free or Budget Friendly Things to do in Santorini

1. watch the sunset.

Santorini is famous for it’s beautiful sunset, in fact the sunset here is said to be one of the most beautiful in the entire world. Watching the sunset is one of the best free things to do in Santorini!

To view the sunset, make sure you are on the Caldera side of the island. You’ll find tons of tourists heading to the Oia castle, which is a nice spot if you don’t mind the crowds.

Another option is to view the sunset from Fira. Sitting at outdoor bar + sipping wine can make for the best place to watch the sunset! If you are staying in Imerovigli, you may even see the sunset right from your accommodation.

For a quieter and more romantic sunset view, try heading to the other end of the island to catch the sunset from the Akrotiri lighthouse. This is arguably the best way to view the sunset, as it is more serene and avoids the large crowds.

2. Hike from Fira to Oia

The reason Santorini is so immensely popular is because of its incredible views . The landscape was formed by volcanic eruptions which has made it very dramatic.

To experience these amazing views, one of the best things to do in Santorini is to complete the hike from Fira to Oia. I recommend starting the hike from Fira, as it is a bit less uphill and you will get amazing views of Oia as you approach.

The full hike from Fira to Oia is a little over 6 miles, and will take a few hours to complete. If you plan to do this hike in the summer, get an early start as it will get quite hot out. Also, it’s essential to bring plenty of water as for most of the hike there is nowhere to stop.

3. Explore the picturesque village of Oia

Picturing yourself among the white washed cave houses and blue dome churches of Greece? Well, the place you are thinking of is none other than the beautiful village of Oia.

Oia is the most popular town on Santorini island, and therefore can be expensive to stay in. However, it makes for a great place to spend the day and walk around (for free!). Oia is where you will find the picturesque white cave houses perched atop the dramatic cliff overlooking the Caldera.

Apopular spot in Oia is the castle, which is a surviving watchtower from a fortress during medieval times. The views here are incredible, and arguably some of the best on the island. This area is also free to visit.

4. Check out Amoudi Bay

Walking distance from the village of Oia, you will find the picturesque Amoudi Bay harbor. This is a beautiful harbor to visit, although it is a long walk that does include a lot of steps to get down to the harbor.

Visiting the harbor gives you a chance to get close to the water and gives you a different perspective of Santorini. There are also a few seaside restaurants along the harbor, but these restaurants are a bit on the pricey side.

5. Visit Santorini’s Beaches

Santorini is not as well known for it’s beaches, but it does have some nice ones! The beaches are located on the opposite side of the island in Kamari and Perissa. Visiting the beach is a great free activity, especially on a hot summer day!

6. Hike Profitis Ilias

Profitis Ilias (Prophet Elias) is the highest point in Santorini. Located around 3km away from Pygros village and reaches 1860 feet high. Profitis Ilias makes for a nice hike with great views from the tallest mountain in Santorini.

7. Visit the Ancient Site of Akrotiri

Akrotiri is an archeological site on Santorini. It was once an ancient Bronze Age settlement that was completely destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 16,000 BC. Similar to Pompeii in Italy, the volcanic ash covered and preserved buildings which have since been uncovered by archeologists.

Today, you can walk through the excavation site of Akrotiri and get a glimpse of the ancient city that once existed here.

Akrotiri is relatively small and will only take 1-2 hours to visit, however it makes for a very unique thing to do in Santorini. It only costs 12 Euros per person to visit this incredible site. The site is also completely covered, making it a great activity for a rainy day.

8. Visit a Winery

Did you know Santorini is famous for their wine? You should definitely try some Santorini wine on your budget trip!

While there are several expensive half day wine tours available, you can instead just go directly to one of the wineries for a wine tasting or a glass of wine.

Santos and Venetsanos Winery are both highly rated and offer excellent views. At Venetsanos Winery, you can do a winery tour for around 12 euros a person or a tasting for around 26 Euros. You can also choose to just have a glass of wine and enjoy the incredible views. In the high season, you will likely need to reserve your spot online ahead of time.

9. Take a Boat Tour to the Santorini Volcano and Hot Springs

Boat tours are very popular in Santorini, and there are many different tours to choose from. If you have the budget for it, I do recommend one of the Catamaran sunset tours that include food and drinks. The unfortunate thing is that those tours can cost around 100 Euros per person, which isn’t very budget friendly.

However, there are some boat trips that are much more affordable. For example, this half day boat ride to the active volcano and hot springs for only around $30 per person.

✅ Click Here to Check Prices and Book the Best Budget-Friendly Boat Ride around Santorini

Taking a boat tour is also a good option if you are wanting to visit the red beach. The red beach has had many landslide issues and can be dangerous, and so it is best to admire it safely from the water!

When to go to Santorini for a Budget Trip?

One of the most important aspects for planning a budget trip to Santorini is deciding when to go. The Greek islands are very seasonal, and prices will vary depending on what time of year you are there.

Fall (September-October)

Fall is shoulder season in Santorini, and is a great time to visit Santorini on a budget. The weather is still warm, with averages of 15-30C (60-86 F). Additionally, the Aegean Sea is still warm enough for swimming, especially in September.

Most hotels and businesses will remain open through the month of October, and the closer to November the cheaper prices will be.

Early September on the other hand, can still be quite hot and busy with tourists, and so if you are looking to go in the fall late September through October will be the best time for an enjoyable yet budget friendly trip to Santorini.

Spring (April-May)

Spring is another shoulder season, and an amazing time of year to visit Santorini on a budget. The weather is slowly warming up and ranges from 10-25 C (50-76F) in April and 15-30C (60-86F) in May. There can be occasional rain and fog still at this time of year, especially in early spring.

April to early May is the best time for a budget friendly trip and will have less crowds than the summer season. The Aegean Sea won’t start to warm up until later in May, but if you are brave or don’t mind the cold you can try to swim!

One thing to keep in mind is that Greek Easter (typically in April) can be a very busy, therefore more expensive weekend to visit.

Summer (June-August)

Summer in Santorini is considered The High Season. Weather in summertime is sunny and great for being out on the water. Temperatures are typically between 24-30 C (76-86 F).

However, prices during summer time raise significantly due to it being peak season.

A good example of how avoiding peak season saves you money is this: We stayed hotel room with a hot tub and caldera views in April for a reasonable price. That same hotel we stayed at in April was 3 times more expensive in June of the same year. Therefore, summer is not the best choice to get great value on Santorini hotels.

Summer is also extremely crowded, especially in popular places such as Oia. Santorini is a small island, and summertime sees insane numbers of tourists. Additionally, many cruise ships that stop there for the day and have thousands of passengers getting out.

Winter (November-March)

In general, the Greek islands are very seasonal and close down in the winter months. Especially the tourist areas, such as Oia, will be almost completely closed up during winter.

Santorini does have a year round population in the town of Fira. However, many restaurants, shops, and activities will be limited or closed completely , especially outside of Fira. Additionally, many hotels close completely during the winter months.

If winter is the only time you can go to Santorini, you will want to stay in Fira. There will not be many tours or activities running, but renting a car would allow you to still visit sites that have opening hours in winter such as Akrotiri, as well as visit Oia without tourists to get some photos.

Want to visit Greece in the off-season? Check out some of the incredible destinations in mainland Greece, such as Meteora or Delphi .

Delphi is an awesome day trip from Athens. You can be there in a few hours, but there are some amazing things to see along the way.

If you have a little more time, Meteora is a stunning destination, and a great road trip option from Athens.

Both of these are very budget-friendly places and are completely underrated destinations in Greece.

Santorini on a Budget – Where to Stay

There are many hotels and hostels on the island of Santorini. To keep your accommodation costs in budget friendly try to not stay in Oia and stay in one of the following locations instead:

Fira (Thera)

The capital of Santorini, Fira, has a wide selection of accommodation, with plenty of budget friendly choices available.

Fira has a variety of local restaurants, giving you more options to find budget food and drinks. Fira also has museums and activities, such as the museum of prehistoric Thera. This makes for a convenient stay as many things are just a short walk from your hotel.

One mistake budget travelers can make is booking cheap accommodation, but not accounting for cost of transportation, and then spending more money + time trying to get to where they want to visit each day.

This is one reason why Fira is a great choice for a budget trip to Santorini. Staying in Fira allows you to be in the center of everything, making your transportation costs lower. Fira is well connected by the local bus system and is close to the airport.

Looking for something romantic or more relaxing? Yet still want to travel on a budget to Santorini? Imerovigli may be the perfect choice! Known as the balcony to the Aegean , Imerovigli has incredible caldera views. It is one of the main towns and one of the highest points on the Greek island of Santorini.

Imerovigli is located a little over a mile away from Fira, and consists of mostly accommodation and some restaurants. It is quieter here, yet still close enough that you will easily be able to get to where you want to go.

Imerovigli is a good location for honeymooners, couples, or those visiting the island of Santorini for the first time. It also makes for a great location to see the famous Santorini sunset. Not only is it much more affordable than the popular village of Oia, but it is also more private and less crowded.

Perissa + Kamari

Going in the high season or looking for a more laid back beach vibe? Check out one of the beach towns of Perissa or Kamari. Both of these villages offer great budget options for your vacation to Santorini.

Perissa + Kamari both are on the opposite side from the Caldera. So while neither has the famous Caldera view, they do both have very budget friendly accommodations and you can be steps away from the beach!

Both of these villages are also well connected by the public bus system, making it possible to travel to other parts of the island. Alternatively, you could choose to rent a car to further explore Santorini.

Perissa or Kamari are great for the summertime, as the weather is perfect for the beach and many of the beach bars and restaurants will be open. Other villages, such as Imerovigli will also have higher prices in high season.

Getting to Santorini on a Budget

To get to Santorini, you will either need to fly or take a ferry. Both of these can be budget friendly options. Depending on the time of year and where you are coming from, taking a flight can usually be the quickest and cheapest option.

Fly to Santorini

Many people choose to fly to Santorini, and for good reason. Flying is the fastest way to get to Santorini. Flights from Athens are super quick, lasting only around 30-40 minutes. The great thing about flying is that it gives you more time in Santorini!

There are several direct flights from Athens, and these flights are typically pretty budget friendly. Prices vary based on the airline and time of year, but on average you should pay between 50-100 Euros per person for a roundtrip flight.

If you are coming from an international destination, it will likely be cheapest to fly to Athens first and then fly to Santorini.

Some of the airlines that fly to Santorini from Athens include SkyExpress, RyanAir, and Aegean. Out of these options, I personally can recommend Aegean.

Ferry to Santorini

Taking a ferry is a popular option and is very unique to Greece. A ferry is a great choice if you are already on or going to another island nearby, such as Mykonos or Naxos. You can also take the ferry directly from Athens.

Ferries will take longer than flights, but can be a fun way to get to Santorini if you enjoy being on the water. There are high speed ferries (SeaJet) and slow ferries (Blue Star). On average ferries can cost between 35-140 Euros per person. Ferries are also more common in the summer months.

SeaJet can go from Athens to Santorini in around 4-5 hours, while Blue Star will take closer to 8 hours. If you are at all prone to seasickness, you will want to avoid the high speed ferries if possible and opt for the BlueStar.

Budget Friendly Transportation in Santorini

Public Transportation

Santorini does have a public bus that is easy and safe to use. The bus is by far the most budget friendly way to get around Santorini as bus tickets cost around 1-2 Euros per ticket.

Fira is the main hub for the bus, and bus routes include transportation to the ferry port, airport, and other towns such as Oia, Imerovigli, Perissa, Kamari and more.

One important note is that for the bus you will need cash to buy the ticket.

Car rentals are surprisingly affordable in Santorini. There are several car rental companies at the airport and can be budget friendly depending on when you go. We rented a car for 4 nights in the spring and paid around 100 Euros total.

A car rental makes sense if you plan to do a lot of exploring of different parts of the island. Keep in mind that most cars will be manual, and that Santorini can have some steep driving. Another thing to keep in mind is that in popular areas such as Oia, parking can be difficult to find.

Scooter or ATV Rental

Renting a scooter, quad bike, or ATV is another popular thing to do in Santorini. Scooters cost around 30-55 Euros per day, while an ATV will cost 50-150 Euros per day.

I personally wouldn’t recommend a scooter or ATV because the roads can be curvy and have pot holes, and getting in an accident on an ATV may not turn out well. It is however a very popular way to get around Santorini.

We opted for a car rental, as it was actually more budget friendly and felt a bit safer than driving the ATVs.

Eating and Drinking on a Budget

The cost of food and drinks can be another consideration for keeping your trip to Santorini budget friendly. Also, its important to remember that you can’t drink the water, so keep in mind you’ll need to buy water.

Here are a few additional things to keep in mind in regards to keeping your food and drink costs budget friendly:

Gyros are a Greek specialty! Gyros are a delish street food option that is a great choice for anyone on a tight budget. It’s a very affordable meal that typically only costs a few Euros. You can also choose to save money buy eating Gyros at lunch so that you can splurge on a fine dining restaurant at dinner.

Take Advantage of Happy Hours in Santorini

Looking to have a drink with a view? Taking advantage of happy hour drink specials can help you get the most out of your money. Not all bars offer happy hours, but some do and these specials typically take place between 5-7pm.

Book a hotel that includes breakfast

Booking a hotel that includes breakfast can help you save some extra cash. It’s also convenient to not have to worry about finding a spot to eat in the morning.

Grocery Shop

Grabbing a few snacks, drinks, sandwiches, or items to make a meal at the grocery store will likely save you money rather than eating out. This is a great option if you are traveling with kids or if you are staying in an airbnb and have a small kitchen.

How Long to Stay in Santorini for a Budget Trip

Santorini is an amazing destination, and I highly recommend staying 3-4 nights if your schedule and budget allow for it. Staying 3-4 nights will allow you to have time to explore and enjoy this beautiful island.

How much will it cost to visit Santorini?

Cost can vary significantly based on when you are going and how much you are wanting to spend. However it is possible to visit Santorini cheaply. Below you will find the average price for things on Santorini island.

Budget Hotel Cost Per Night: 60 – 150 Euros (Varies significantly based on season and town)

Average Cost of a Gyro: 5 – 6 Euros

Average Cost of a Meal: 15 – 25 Euros (Avoid eating in Oia or Ammoudi Bay due to higher prices)

Average Cost of Water: 1 Euro

Average Cost of a Beer or Glass of Wine: 5 – 6 Euros

Average Bus Ticket: 1-2 Euros

Top Tips for Visiting Santorini in the Cheapest Way

• Visit in the shoulder seasons of Spring or Fall to get the best deals on the best hotels
• Stay in Fira or Imerovigli if Caldera views are a must. If you are more flexible, stay in the Kamari beach or Perissa beach towns for the best prices and cheap hotels
• Eat breakfast at your hotel and a cheap meals such as Gyros
• If you order seafood make sure you know the price ahead as they typically base pricing per Kilo and it adds up quickly
• Take advantage of the free + cheap activities mentioned above
• Utilize the local busses – public transport here is cheap + safe and can easily get you around the entire island
• By food + drinks at the grocery store when possible as it is a great way to save money

So, Can Santorini be a Budget Destination?

Absolutely! If planned right, you can definitely visit Santorini on a budget.

Santorini has a plethora of free and budget-friendly activities which can keep your costs down significantly. Staying in the right place and going at the right time will also help you keep your Santorini trip on budget. You do not need to stay in expensive hotels or spend a lot of money to enjoy everything that one of Greece’s most popular islands has to offer.

Santorini is a beautiful destination in Greece, and is truly a must visit!

Looking for more budget-friendly destinations in Greece? Check out Meteora and Delphi !

Amber is the owner and author of Get Lost in Wanderlust, a blog that helps travelers plan incredible trips across Europe from bucket list cities to charming hidden gems. She has a Bachelor's Degree in History and Psychology, and enjoys learning more about the culture and historical significance of each place she visits. When she isn't exploring Europe, she loves reading, writing, and planning her next adventure.

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Build a custom vacation package to Santorini and get ready for your next big adventure. Stay in the neighborhood of Órmos Athiniós, which is good for gift and craft shops and cafes, for a real taste of this vibrant city. If your trip to Santorini includes a little sightseeing, check out major attractions such as Red Beach , Museum of Prehistoric Thira and Archaeological Museum of Thera . Whoever you're escaping with and whatever you plan to spend, your ultimate Santorini vacation is just clicks away with Expedia.

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Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in santorini, athinios port.

Explore the waterfront of Athinios Port and enjoy activities such as boating in Órmos Athiniós. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.

Ancient Thira

You can find out about the history of Santorini with a visit to Ancient Thira. Wander the seaside and beautiful beaches in the area.

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Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Perivolos Beach during your travels in Agios Georgios? While in this romantic area, you can enjoy the bars.

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Santorini day tour with sunset in oia, santorini: traditional sightseeing bus tour with oia sunset, best of santorini customized private tour, other vacations you might like.

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SANTORINI Travel Guide with Budget Itinerary

How we ended up spending the night at an empty clifftop taxi stand in Santorini in winter is a long story.

But the moral of the story is this: We should have researched more and planned this trip better. We should have known that Santorini in off season is as dormant as its volcano, and that the Oia village is almost empty, but not as empty as the reception office of the hotel where we were supposed to stay. But yes, we ended up sleeping at a taxi stand amid wuthering of the wind in cold, cold December.

And yet, despite starting our getaway on a bad note, it still turned out to be one of our most wonderful trips ever.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

Understanding Santorini

Off the coast of the Greek mainland is a 220-piece archipelago called the Cyclades , peppering the Aegean Sea. On its southernmost edge is Santorini Island, accompanied by a few smaller isles. This smaller group of islands used to be a single volcano that erupted cataclysmically in 3600 BP, creating a huge caldera that is mostly submerged. Today, the largest of the resulting fragment islands is called Santorini.

Although the world, including the Greeks, call the island Santorini , its official name is Thira. “Santorini” is the Latin name bestowed by the Venetians when they had control of the island after the Fourth Crusade. Santorini’s capital and largest town is called Fira, which is derived from the island’s Greek name Thira.

Santorini is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece and in Europe, especially among couples. It’s best known for its iconic whitewashed houses and blue-domed chapels that are perched on the cliffside, overlooking the legendary caldera and its world-famous sunset.

Here are more bits you should know about the island.

• Language : Greek. However, English is widely spoken. Street signs are written both in Greek and English, so going around isn’t a problem at all.
• Currency : Euro (EUR, €). €1 = 1.14 USD, SGD 1.6, PHP 61 (as of October 2018)
• Modes of Payment : Cash is still the most common, but credit card payments are widely accepted too.
• Electricity Info : 230 V, 50 Hz. Power sockets are Type F, which also accept Type C plugs.

Best Time to Visit Santorini

April to October. This period sees sunny skies and generally pleasant weather.

In particular, the summer months of June to September are the driest and hottest, which is great for chasing the beach. However, it is also the high season, so expect the island to be crowded and the prices to go higher.

If you want to avoid the crowd and have the island to yourself (and a few others), travel between mid-November and March, Santorini’s off season. This is when the prices of flights and hotels go down drastically. I know because this is exactly how I was able to visit Santorini: cheap airfare and rooms. But there’s a catch.

In off season, Santorini seems to go into hibernation. Yes, there are fewer tourists but there are also fewer establishments open and transportation options available. In Oia during our visit, there were only three restaurants that were open. Fira was a lot more alive, but still not as alive as you would probably imagine. In summer, there are plenty of buses operating between the airport and Fira, and between Oia and Fira. But in winter, the number of trips per day dwindles that you might be forced to just take a cab if you’re in a hurry, which can push the cost of your trip higher. So you have to plan your trip really well.

The best time to visit then depends on WHY you want to travel to Santorini. If you’re after beach activities or maybe partying, April-October is your best bet. But if you just want some peace of mind or have a quiet, romantic time with someone, winter isn’t bad at all.

Where to Stay in Santorini

Santorini is home to several communities spread around the island. The best place to stay depends on your travel style. Basically, the first thing you should ask yourself is whether you want to stay on the beach or atop the cliff. If you prefer the beach, find a place in Kamari or Perissa.

But most tourists visit Santorini for that gorgeous view of the caldera and the sunset. In this case, pick a village that is perched on the island’s cliffs. You have four great options: Fira, Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani.

• Fira. The capital and main town of the island. This is where most the action happens. Lots of lodging options and tour agencies. Plenty of cafes, bars, and restaurants around. Nightlife is vibrant too. Almost all bus routes in the island start and end at the main terminal in Fira, which means every part of the island is accessible from here. If you’re a backpacker or budget traveler, stay in Fira.
• Firostefani. Situated north of Fira. Just like in Fira, the views here are majestic. It also has the same vibe, with a lot of accommodations and restaurants. The difference is, it’s less crowded.
• Imerovigli. Farther north from Firostefani. Built on the tallest part of the caldera ridge at 300masl, this village is often dubbed the “Balcony of the Aegean.” Small hotels and restaurants abound too. It’s less crowded and less busy than Fira, but less expensive than Oia.
• Oia. The poster village of the island. The photos in most Santorini postcards you see are shot here in Oia. Lying in the caldera edge of the island’s northernmost tip, it also offers a marvelous view of the caldera and the sunset. It is a top attraction so expect it to be heavily crowded with hordes of tourists during the day in peak season. At night, though, it is pretty quiet since most visitors are here on a day tour and are staying in Fira. In winter, most hotels and restaurants are closed, so it gets even quieter. The catch is, it has the most expensive accommodations. One thing I like about Oia is that it’s extremely romantic. If you’re on a honeymoon or romantic trip, stay in Oia.

Top Budget Hotels in Santorini

Let’s get one thing clear first: Most accommodations in Santorini, especially those with a view, are expensive. Even the “budget” options are still relatively pricey.

Here are the top hotels below €120 per night as scored by Agoda users.

• Vip Suites. Oia. Cliffside caldera view. Check Rates & Availability .
• Costa Marina Villas. Fira. NO caldera view. Check Rates & Availability .
• Heliophos Boutique Hotel. Oia. Caldera view. Check Rates & Availability .
• Hippocampus Hotel. Kamari. NO Caldera view. Check Rates & Availability .
• Niovi. Fira. NO Caldera view. Check Rates & Availability .
• Costa Marina Villas. Fira. NO Caldera view. Check Rates & Availability .

Search for more Santorini Hotels

Important reminders.

Cliffside hotels or suites are not for everyone. The hotels and points of interest are connected by staircases that wind across the side of the cliff. If you choose a place far down, you’re going to have to climb back up every time you want to go elsewhere. Because the sights are spectacular, you probably won’t mind. But I can imagine how difficult it must be if you’re traveling with seniors, young kids, or PWDs.

Another thing you have to understand is that not all “hotels” have their rooms are housed in the same building. For example, in some cliffside villages like Oia, accommodations are in the form of a network of suites and villas rented out to tourists but marketed as one hotel. In this case, Google Maps is useless because sometimes rooms don’t stand next to each other, even hundreds of meters apart. Upon arrival, one should first drop by their reception office in a separate location to check in, and a staff member will take you to your room. If you skip the office stop, you’re not gonna know where exactly your room is located. They can also help you carry your luggage because carrying heavy suitcases while winding up and down the cliff is no joke. Trust me, I know.

It’s something that I learned the hard way. Remember, we arrived in Oia in the evening, off peak season. Because we didn’t know this whole check-in shebang, we just followed Google Maps. But again, it doesn’t work here because the rooms are spread apart. We realized that we must check in at a separate location when we were already so far down. So we had to climb back up again carrying our heavy bags only to find the reception office closed. Apparently, the staff didn’t see our message that we would be arriving at night. We tried calling the emergency numbers to no avail, so we ended up spending the cold, windy night at a taxi stand. It was hilarious. Definitely one for the books. We were only able to check in the next morning.

There are lessons to be learned here:

• Choose the location of your hotel wisely.
• Let the hotel staff know what time you’re arriving (which we did) and be sure to get a reply or confirmation (which we didn’t).
• Be familiar with the check-in process of your hotel before your trip so you know what to do when you arrive.

How to Get to Santorini

Santorini (Thira) International Airport (JTR) connects the island directly to many European cities, but most of the flights are seasonal. Athens is the only city that you can fly to and from Santorini year-round. The good news is, Athens is connected to several major cities around the world.

If you’re coming from Manila or Singapore, the most cost-efficient way to reach Athens is to fly with Scoot. Scoot fares to Athens start at PHP10,403 from Cebu, PHP10,704 from Clark, PHP11,198 from Kalibo and PHP10,754 from Manila. These can still go lower when there is a promo. Look:

All flights from the Philippines will have a layover in Singapore. You can take this opportunity to also tour SG while you’re at it. From SG, the travel time to Athens is 11 hours and 10 minutes. Scoot uses a new Boeing 787 Dreamliner, so you can expect the cabin to be spanking clean and well-maintained.

If you want to score ATHENS PROMO FARES, keep a lookout for Scoot’s monthly Take-off Tuesday promotions, which happens every first Tuesday-Thursday of every month, available on their official website !

Athens to Santorini

From Athens, flights to Santorini are incredibly cheap. In off season, you can find roundtrip airfare between the 30€ to 70€ range, offered usually by RyanAir and Olympic Air. If you’re lucky, you might chance upon fares that are only 14€ roundtrip! See screenshots below:

Santorini Airport to Fira or Oia

This is the cheapest option.

• Santorini Airport to Fira. Bus fare: €1.70. Travel time: 25 minutes.
• Santorini Airport to Oia. There is no direct bus from the airport to Oia. You need to first get to Fira and then transfer to another bus to reach Oia. Fira to Oia Bus Fare: €1.70.

However, the problem with the buses in Santorini is that times are tentative. The timetable for summer is different from winter, so you always have to check for the updated schedule. Yes, there is a schedule but it’s often not followed. Not to mention the waiting time.

In peak season, there are too many tourists so prepare to wait in line. In off season, there are too few buses so you might still be in for a long wait. The buses also don’t operate past 8pm. (Not sure if the last bus leaves earlier in winter.)

To see the bus schedule, visit: Santorini Bus Schedule .

Because we arrived in Santorini in the evening, there were no more buses, forcing us to just take the cab. The great thing about the taxi is that you can find one even if you arrive at night. You’ll find them just outside the Arrival Hall.

Before you get into the cab, come to an agreement with the driver regarding the fare. Here are the usual rates:

• To Fira: €30 to €35
• To Oia: €40 to €45

By Welcome Pickups Taxi

Because the number of taxi units in the island is limited, if you’re visiting in peak season or arriving late at night, you might want to pre-arrange a pick up service.

One thing you might want to consider is Welcome Pickups. I haven’t tried this in Santorini, but I have in Athens and I absolutely enjoyed it. Had I known then that they have operations in Santorini, I would have booked them.

Welcome Pickups is much like Uber, only a gazillion times better. At €35, the fare is the same as the regular taxi’s, but the service is fantastic. A driver will be picking you up at the Arrival Hall, escort you to his taxi, give you bottled water and brochures, and provide important tips on the road. If you’re a couple on a honeymoon or celebrating something, this is perfect because you’ll be pampered!

Here’s a quick comparison of the transportation services in the island.

By Hotel Airport Service

Many hotels in Santorini offer airport pickup and drop off service to guests. If it’s a private service, expect it to be a bit pricier than a regular cab. Not all the time, though.

Our hotel in Oia had a mini-van service that is much, much cheaper than the cab. On our way back to the airport, we just booked with them. If I remember correctly, we only paid around €30 (good for 2 passengers).

Bottomline, contact your hotel before your trip and ask if they have a pickup service that you can avail of.

How to Get Around Santorini

• By Bus. This is by far the cheapest mode of transportation in the island. If you’re staying in Fira, you’re in luck. The majority of the bus trips start and end in Fira, so you should be fine. If you’re staying in Imerovigli, Firostefani, or Oia, you need to first take a bus to Fira (Fare: €1.80) and then board another bus to where you want to go. There are also journeys stemming from the villages of Messaria and Karterados. Again, getting around by public transpo can be problematic in winter, when there are fewer buses operating in the island.
• By Group Tour. Numerous travel agencies offer various tour services around the island. If you’re staying in Fira, options are aplenty. Note that the number of tours available drops drastically in winter.

Things to Do in Santorini

Santorini sightseeing bus tour.

GetYourGuide offers a guided 10-hour sightseeing bus tour that would take you to the key attractions in Santorini including the following:

• Akrotiri excavation site , a tour of the civilization that got buried in volcanic ash after the Minoan Eruption in the 17th century BC. Entrance fee not included.
• Red Beach , best known for its red sand and lava cliffs.
• Emporio village , a small, idyllic village with medieval castles and windmills.
• Perissa Beach , a black-sand beach. It’s also the lunch stop. (Lunch not included in the price.)
• Winery , for a quick tour and wine-tasting.
• Profitis Ilias , Santorini’s tallest peak, offering incredible views.
• Oia , where you’ll watch the world-famous Santorini sunset.

✅ RESERVE A SEAT HERE!

Volcanic Islands Cruise

Island hopping in Santorini? Hell yes! You’ll be picked up at designated points before sailing from the island’s new Athinios Port. The tour lasts 6-10 hours. Here are the stops:

• Nea Kameni , a small uninhabited volcanic island where you’ll get to see more of the caldera.
• Palea Kameni , where you get to take a dip in the hot springs.
• Thirassia , which you can explore freely. Don’t miss the village of Manolas.
• Oia , where you have a choice to stay longer and watch the celebrated sunset.

✅ RESERVE A SLOT HERE!

Santorini Cooking Class and Wine-Tasting Tour

This tour will take you on a tour of a volcanic vineyards and two traditional wineries where you get to learn a lot about and sample the island’s signature wines including Vinsanto, Nykteri, and Assyrtiko.

After the wine tour, you’ll be joining a cooking class where you’ll learn how to cook traditional Greek dishes under the guidance of a professional chef. The best part, you get to stuff your mouth with whatever you cooked with some Greek aperitifs like ouzo and raki.

Fira Food Tour

It’s a great intro to Greek cuisine! This 4-hour guided tour will begin with a cup of traditional Greek coffee in Firostefani. From there you’ll have a taste of some of the most sought after local delicacies like Loukoumades (Greek donuts), mezes, Greek honey, and souvlaki. You also get a gulp of local beer and taste some olive oil. This, while taking in the beauty of your surroundings.

Fira to Oia Hike

Or the other way around. This 10.5-km trekking route will take you along the edge of the caldera and through the villages of Oia, Imerovigli, Firostefani, and Fira. The whole hike can take at least 3 hours, depending on your pace and how many stops you make. Along the way, you’re treated to magnificent views of the landscapes and seascapes of Santorini.

Other Things to Do in Santorini

• Scuba Diving. Santorini’s beauty isn’t just skin deep. It also has a wealth of wonders underneath the waves. Intro dives cost around €70.
• Open-Air Cinema , located in Kamari. Enjoy a good movie while having a drink with friends. Open only from May to October.
• Ammoudi Bay , a small fishing village at the base of Oia where you can also catch another unforgettable sunset or enjoy a serving of freshly caught fish.
• Pyrgos Village , an inland community where you can get to see how locals live away from all the tourists.
• Akrotiri , a well-preserved archaeological site featuring the remnants of a community that perished during the Minoan Eruption of Santorini. This is part of the bus tour I mentioned above.

Sample Santorini Itinerary

Here’s a sample DIY 4-DAY 3-NIGHT Santorini itinerary that you may use to build your own. Bear in mind that the prices and times indicated are just estimates. Actual costs and times may vary depending on many factors including season and the location of your hotel. Always check the sunset times, too.

This assumes you’re a group of 2, arriving in the island in late afternoon, and staying in Fira. Feel free to tweak according to your flight schedule and preferences.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL, CHECK-IN 04:25 pm – Arrival in Santorini 05:10 pm – Bus to Fira, €1.70 06:00 pm – Hotel check in 07:00 pm – Dinner, €15 09:00 pm – Back to hotel, rest

DAY 2: SANTORINI BUS TOUR 08:00 am – Wake up call 09:30 am – Santorini Sightseeing Tour, €55, BOOK HERE! Akrotiri Site entrance fee, €12 Lunch budget, €10 05:00 pm – Oia Sunset 08:30 pm – Back to Fira, dinner, €15 10:00 pm – Back to hotel, lights out

DAY 3: ISLAND HOPPING 07:00 am – Wake up call 08:30 am – Islands cruise, €37, BOOK HERE! Lunch budget, €15 Volcano entrance fee, €2 05:00 pm – Back to Fira, watch sunset 07:00 pm – Dinner, €15 10:00 pm – Back to hotel, lights out

DAY 4: DEPARTURE 07:00 am – Wake up call 08:00 am – Souvenir shopping 11:00 am – Check out, leave bags 12:00 pm – Lunch, €10 02:00 pm – Bus to airport, €1.70 03:00 pm – Flight check-in 04:55 pm – Flight out

If you follow the itinerary above, prepare to shell out at least €200 (USD230, SGD318, PHP12,500) , excluding airfare, hotel, tips, and shopping expenses. For good measure add an additional €100 for other possible expenses including tips, incidentals, and taxi fare (in case there are no buses).

More Santorini Tips for the Poor Traveler

• Walk when you can . Take the limited public transportation as an opportunity to walk for fitness! You’ll enjoy the view too.
• Where to Eat . As in most cities in Europe, restaurants at touristy places are often more expensive than usual. But you’ll find the exceptions when you go out of the main street.
• Tipping . When eating at restaurants, locals usually just round up the bill. If your bill is €23.5, they usually just pay €25. A tip of 5-10% of the bill is also common at touristy places.
• Try gyro and souvlaki . Ah, the quintessential Greek street food. They’re cheap and filling! Beef or chicken gyro costs 2-4 euro, while souvlaki 4-6 euro. A serving usually comes with meat, onions, fries, and yogurt sauce. Delicious, too! Salads are cheap and tasty too.

Our Santorini Travel Slam Book

• Best thing about Santorini: Spectacular views everywhere you look. Every nook or cranny is postcard-worthy.
• Something about Santorini that you don’t like: Limited transportation options in off season. When we visited, we were forced to take the cab or walk most of the time.
• Most unforgettable moment: Well, that night we had to sleep at a taxi stand because our hotel reception office was closed. We also had to go up and down the cliff while carrying heavy suitcases because of the confusion.
• Favorite spot: In Oia, there is a family-run restaurant called Lotza. And yes, the food is great. But what we loved the most about it was the view. It just has the perfect view of the blue domes and white houses with the horizon running in the background.
• Favorite meal: Lotza restaurant has this meal called “Rice with seafood.” Yum yum yum. At 16 euro, it’s pretty pricey, but serving is big. Their saganaki is delish too.
• Favorite encounter with a local: As I was looking for ref magnet souvenirs, the owner of the shop asked where I was from. When I answered Philippines, he was surprised. He said that most tourists in the off season are usually from China, but this year he found that most are from Singapore and he was wondering why. I told him that Scoot, a new airline, has launched a new Singapore-Athens route and that I took that flight too. It was the start of a long conversation about Greece, Singapore, the Philippines, and travel in general. There weren’t that many customers so our chitchat wasn’t interrupted at all.
• Biggest surprise: Santorini is eerily quiet in winter. In Oia, we would walk around and never find or bump into any other tourist. We felt like we owned the entire village, haha.
• Biggest disappointment: Limited tour options in off season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is santorini safe.

Yes, Santorini is very safe generally. But as in other places, follow the rules and don’t leave your things unattended. There are some accounts of scams on ATV rentals, though.

What is tipping policy in Santorini?

Tipping is NOT mandatory or expected in Santorini. You can just round up the bill. If your bill is €23.5, they usually just pay €25. But if you’re very happy with the service, 10% of the bill should be fine.

Taxi drivers don’t expect to be tipped either, but you can just round off the meter.

What are the usual prices in Santorini?

• Salad: €6-10
• Moussaka: €6-10
• Burgers: €6-10
• Omelette: €4-7
• Pasta or rice meal: €8-20
• Ref magnet souvenir: €1-4
• Bus fare: €1.70 minimum.

Where to exchange money in Santorini?

Oh, I don’t know, to be honest. I withdrew money from an ATM when I was in Athens, so I never had to exchange money in Santorini. Sorry. :(

What is the power socket used in Santorini?

Power sockets are Type F, which also accept Type C plugs. Standard: 230 V, 50 Hz.

Do I need a visa to visit Greece?

Greece is part of the Schengen Agreement. For short visits, a Schengen Visa is required for most nationalities except for nationals of 62 specified countries which include Singapore, Malaysia, and the United States.

If you’re a Philippine passport holder, you will need a Schengen visa. We have a separate post discussing the visa application process in detail.

Read: Schengen Visa via Greek Embassy

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Hi, I would like to book a tour on 6 February but seems like there is no tour available before 15 February, is there any local bus that travel from Akrotiri to Emporio village, Perissa Beach, Monasterio Profeta Elías and Ancient Thera? From Google, it seems like the bus in Santorini only travel 1 way, e.g. only Fira to Akrotiri, Fira to Perissa, Fira to Kamari.

Thank you for adding how to budget while in Santorini. I know from experience that Santorini is one of the more expensive Greek islands to visit, but there are lots of cheaper options as well! Do you think in Oia that hotels may be the cheaper option over vacation rentals?

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First time Santorini: top tips to have the best time on this famed Greek isle

Dec 7, 2021 • 5 min read

Santorini is a dazzling star of the Greek Islands, and it's extremely popular with tourists © Andrew Mayovskyy / Shutterstock

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

With its reputation for dazzling panoramas, romantic sunsets and volcanic-sand beaches, it’s hardly surprising Santorini features on so many travelers’ bucket lists.  If you're planning to join the crowd, here’s what you need to know for your first trip to Santorini .

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

The island is shaped like a wonky croissant, and the neighboring islets hint at the fact that Santorini was once circular. It was known as Strongili (the Round One). Thousands of years ago, a huge volcanic eruption caused the center of Strongili to sink, leaving a caldera (or crater) with towering cliffs along the east side, now Santorini’s trademark landscape.

Beyond the views, Santorini's vineyards and volcanic beaches

Santorini’s commercial development is focused on the caldera-edge clifftops in the island’s west, with large clusters of whitewashed buildings nesting at dizzying heights, spilling down cliff-sides and offering gasp-inducing views from land or sea.  Fira , the island’s busy capital, sprawls north into villages called Firostefani (about a 15-minute walk from Fira) and Imerovigli (the highest point of the caldera edge, about a 30-minute walk from Fira). A path running through these villages is lined with upmarket hotels, restaurant terraces and endless photo opportunities.

These three conjoined settlements draw most visitors, together with the stunning and quite exclusive village of Oia in Santorini’s north. There’s a growing number of hotels in the island’s south, offering caldera views to the north and northeast. Akrotiri’s views come cheaper than Oia’s, but it’s a fair way from the action of Fira.

Santorini’s east coast is lesser known than the celebrated, elevated west coast. Here, the caldera-edge heights have sloped down to sea level, and volcanic-sand beaches and resorts offer a very different drawcard. East coast resorts such as Kamari and Perissa have a more traditional (and more affordable) island-holiday appeal: sunlounger-filled beaches, water sports, bars and taverna-lined promenades. The east coast’s beaches are lined with black sand. On the south coast, there’s a string of beaches famed for their multi-colored sand. The dramatic Red Beach is a traveler favorite.

The island’s interior is dotted with vineyards and traditional villages that let you see beyond the tourist hustle. Make a stop in Pyrgos for great eats and a wander through charming backstreets.

Food, archaeology,  open-air cinema: things to do in Santorini

Sure, Santorini's views will stop you in your tracks and you'll get great glimpses into how A-listers travel, but there’s plenty more to explore, from a gorgeous open-air cinema to a cool microbrewery , wine caverns adorned with artworks, and cooking demonstrations and classes  that celebrate Santorini’s growing foodie culture.

The obvious prime activity on Santorini is to walk the caldera edge and admire the views. Walks in and around Fira are spectacular, particularly heading north to Firostefani and Imerovigli along the caldera-edge pathway. Keep walking and you’ll eventually reach Oia, but be aware that this is no small undertaking and the trail beyond Imerovigli can be rough. It’s about 5.6 miles (9km) in all, and a good four-hour walk, one way.

Santorini’s lauded wines are its crisp dry whites and the amber-colored, unfortified dessert wine known as Vinsanto. Both are made from the indigenous grape variety, assyrtiko . About a dozen local vineyards host tastings (usually with a small charge) and some offer food, with scenery and local produce combining to great effect. Start your investigations at  SantoWines .

Santorini’s intrigue reaches deep into the past, with the fascinating site of Akrotiri displaying a Minoan city destroyed by the volcanic eruption of 1613 BC. In Fira, the impressive Museum of Prehistoric Thera helps piece together the story of ancient Akrotiri.

Nature’s handiwork is on display from any waterfront seat come sundown, but prime sunset-viewing on Santorini is in Oia, where thousands of tourists flock to admire (and applaud) nightfall.

Any tour your heart desires can be organized, and there are dozens of agencies ready to help with winery visits, archaeology tours, sunset-watching and more. The most popular option is a cruise, and the classic itinerary takes in the caldera’s volcanic islands of Nea Kameni and Palia Kameni, including a stop at the former’s crater and the latter’s hot springs.

Accommodation with a view in Santorini comes at a price

If you can afford it, first-timers to Santorini should stay on the caldera edge to experience the full "wow" factor. Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli and Oia have hotels and villas with whitewashed interiors, terraces and infinity pools that have inspired marriage proposals, high-fashion photo shoots and many Instagram posts.

Unfortunately there are not a lot of places to stay in these view-blessed locales for budget-conscious travelers: caldera-view accommodations come at a premium, and they are in hot demand. You'll also need to book well in advance.

There are decent midrange options in Fira and Firostefani (less so in Imerovigli and Oia), away from the front-row panoramas. There’s also a great hostel and a budget-friendly campground (with rooms) on the outskirts of Fira.

If you’re more interested in a beach break or activities, stay in Perissa or Kamari (and catch the bus into Fira). The advantage of this is some respite from the camera-toting caldera crowds, plus more reasonable prices.

The best times to visit Santorini without the crowds

Peak travel time to Santorini is July and August, when prices soar and hotels, viewpoints and beaches are packed with tourists. The shoulder season months of April, May, early June, late September and October are better times to visit. Things are marginally quieter at the caldera edge, and considerably quieter on the east coast (where accommodation bargains are plentiful).

Don’t discount a winter break, when crowds are scarce (and prices low) while the scenery is still breathtaking. Santorini is working on positioning itself as a year-round destination.

Reach Santorini by ferry, catamaran or plane 

Frequent ferries and high-speed catamarans link Santorini with Athens’ main port of Piraeus, Crete and various Cycladic islands. Check  OpenSeas  for ferry timetables. Santorini Airport has year-round flight connections with Athens, and summertime European connections. On the island, bus services are decent, if crowded in summer. Lots of companies also offer cars, mopeds and ATV four-wheeler bikes to rent. 

You might also like: Plan your perfect Greek island-hopping adventure Finding the right Greek island The 10 best museums in Athens

This article was first published May 2019 and updated December 2021

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The Ultimate Santorini Travel Guide

By: Author Tiana Thompson

Posted on Last updated: March 23, 2022

Categories Europe , Greece , Travel Guides

Home » The Ultimate Santorini Travel Guide

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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.

In this post, you'll find...

What to expect in Santorini?

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

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.

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).

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Search flights to Santorini

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

Accommodation in Oia

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.

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

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.

Search accommodation in Santorini

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

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).

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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

Updated On: April 26, 2023

Written By: Pavlos Inglesis

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

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

BEST HOTEL IN SANTORINI: San Antonio

BUT ALSO CHECK:

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

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

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

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

Get my secrets for Greece and Santorini in your email!

Keep reading…

VERY IMPORTANT TO KNOW :

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

RECOMMENDED WEBSITES FOR GREECE:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. What is Santorini?

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

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

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

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

2. Where is Santorini?

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

3. Where To Stay in Santorini ?

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

You literally have 2 options:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

These are the  Top 20 Most Luxurious Hotels of Santorini.

These are the  10 Best Hotels in Oia.

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

None of these towns are close to the sea though.

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

But no access to a beach unfortunately.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. When Is The Best Time to Visit Santorini ?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Remember: it’s still Santorini!

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

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

Read Also:  The Best Time To Visit Santorini

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. How To Get To Santorini ?

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

Read Also:   How to Get From Athens to Santorini

Read Also:   How To Get From Athens to Mykonos

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

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

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

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

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

• Best Website to Book Ferry Boat tickets:  Ferryhopper

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

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

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

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

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

7. Are There Any Direct Flights to Santorini ?

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

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

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

So, basically your options are:

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

8. What Is The Caldera?

Santorini  is a volcanic island.

To be more precise it is an active volcano!

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

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

Here is an amazing video showing what happened:

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

• Firostefani

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

9. How Many Days Should You Spend in Santorini?

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

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

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

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

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

Is a Day Trip from Athens to Santorini possible?

Yes, it is.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Santorini or Mykonos ?

This is a dilemma that any people have.

They are both amazing islands but:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can also read my detailed comparison:  Mykonos or Santorini

Read Also:  How To Get From Santorini to Mykonos

So, to sum it up:

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

11. Best Greek Islands Near Santorini

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

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

Read Also:  Best Greek Islands to Visit from Santorini

These are the greek islands you can visit from Santorini:

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Best Sunset Views in Santorini

Santorini’s  sunset are famous all over the world.

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

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

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

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

13. How To Rent A Quad in Santorini ?

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

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

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

14. Money in Santorini. Do I Need Cash ?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read Also:  How To Get Around in Santorini

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

16. How To Rent A Car in Santorini ?

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

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

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

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

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

17. What Are The Best Boat Tours in Santorini ?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

These are the  best wine tours  of the island:

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

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

Read Also Our Detailed Guide:  Best Wineries of Santorini

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

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

20. Shopping in Santorini. Any good?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Best Family Hotels in Santorini are:

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

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

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

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TOP RATED HOTELS IN:

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

TOP RATED VILLAS IN:

Oia:  Anemi House

Fira:  Anteliz Villa

Kamari:  Eolia Villa

Pyrgos:  Sensation Villa

Akrotiri:  Cavo Ventus

Firostefani:  Villa Aura

Imerovigli:  Grace Villa

BEST THINGS TO DO IN SANTORINI:

🌄 Sunset Cruise with Meals and Drinks

🍷 Half-Day Wine Adventure Tour

🥾 Hike the path from Fira to Oia

ALL AVAILABLE FERRIES TO GREEK ISLANDS:

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

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

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In southeastern Europe, the idyllic islands of Greece sit amidst the waters of the Mediterranean Sea, encompassing the Aegean Sea. As the cradle of ancient civilization, Greece is home to many ancient ruins like the Acropolis of Athens in the heart of Ancient Greece. In the southern part of the Aegean Sea, Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and home to the main Bronze Age archaeological site, the Palace of Knossos, the home of the Minotaur. In the northern part of the Aegean Sea, Mykonos offers sun-kissed, sandy beaches, beach clubs and vibrant nightlife. South of Mykonos, the white-washed buildings of Santorini are perched atop cliffs that sit gracefully against the azure skies, offering one-of-a-kind views. Greece is a living canvas of awe-inspiring history and natural splendor. Embark on a journey through both the ancient wonders and contemporary delights, and taste the country's rich culinary heritage with flavorful Mediterranean dishes.

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How to Get to Santorini

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

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

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

Flights to Santorini

How to Get to Santorini from Athens

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

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

How to Get to Santorini from London

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

How to Get to Santorini from Paris

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

How to Get to Santorini from Italy

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

How to Get to Santorini from Crete

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

How to Get to Santorini from Rhodes

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

How to Get to Santorini from Mykonos

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

How to Get to Santorini from The US and Canada

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

What’s the best way to get to Santorini?

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Santorini Dave

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you! Elizabeth

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Santorini for 3 nights at the end of June 2024 - Santorini Forum

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Santorini for 3 nights at the end of June 2024

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Do we have to be at Oia to see the beautiful sunset views? What is the sunset view at Imerovigil?

We are not the partying, late night types. We are in our early 50s, travelling with our teenage daughter. Interested in history, seeing quaint, beautiful villages, sightseeing, beaches.

Which location would be better suited?

Apologies for all the questions, we are first-time travelers to Greece and the amount of information about all the islands is overwhelming.

3 replies to this topic

I enjoyed staying in Imerovigli on the west / caldera side of the island. Of course there is no beach here but the sunsets are really good and not chaotic like they are in Oia . Imerovigli is also on the path from Fira to Oia so convenient for walking to town to shop or catch a bus elsewhere or to walk to the tip of the island at Oia.

You will only have two full days but try to visit the Minoan excavations at Akrotiri.

Thanks a ton:)

Thanks! This is very helpful:)

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10 Best Flights To Santorini, Greece

H ome to volcanic black sand beaches, whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, Santorini is a Greek island that has been captivating visitors from all over the world for centuries. Which is surprising because getting to this famous love spot is actually quite tricky.

While there are direct flights to Santorini, not many airlines offer flights to Santorini direct from big cities. Thira International Airport (JTR), aka Santorini International Airport, is the closest airport to Santorini and only receives flights from Athens and a few other European cities. That's right; no airlines serve direct flights to Santorini, Greece, from NYC (or anywhere in the US, for that matter).

For those not keen on having a flight, there's also a ferry to Santorini from Athens . The boat does take between 5 and 8 hours, though, so the plane is usually recommended as it is the easiest and most convenient way to get to Santorini, Greece.

Not sure how to get to the most popular island in Greece? Here are 10 airlines that offer flights to Santorini direct, plus a list of the cities with direct flights to Santorini. Enjoy!

Aegean Airlines

Aegean Airlines is perhaps the most well-known airline for having direct flights from Athens to Santorini. As the largest airline in Greece that operates several flights to the gorgeous island a day, Aegean Airlines is by far the best airline for flights to Santorini.

That said, flights to Santorini are only available from cities within Greece . Nevertheless, with the chance of in-flight entertainment and complimentary snacks, connecting to an Aegean Airlines flight to Santorini at a connecting airport shouldn't be too hard.

• Aegean Airlines flights to Santorini cost $50 avg. Fare (one way)

Olympic Air

Olympic Air is another popular airline for direct Athens flights to Santorini and operates flights from various cities in Greece like Athens and Thessaloniki. While Olympic Air does not offer any direct flights to Santorini from anywhere outside of Greece, passengers can connect to Olympic Air flights to Santorini via the hub for the airline (Athens International Airport).

With a modern fleet of aircraft, excellent customer service, complimentary snacks, and in-flight entertainment, Olympic Air is a great airline to travel for those wanting to add Santorini to their Greek holiday experience.

• Olympic Air flights to Santorini cost $90 avg. Fare (one way)

SKY Express

SKY Express is a Greek airline based in Athens, so it's no wonder that the prime takeoff point for flights to Santorini is Athens. Though just an hour's trip, SKY Express offers one of the best flights to Santorini with free snacks and in-flight entertainment. Plus, with their modern fleet of green aircraft , passengers can fly comfortably...in plush "ergonomic seats," no less.

In addition to Athens, SKY Express also offers daily direct flights to Santorini from a number of cities in Greece. The airline also supports seasonal flights to Santorini from airports across Europe, including Italy, France, and Switzerland.

• SKY Express flights to Santorini cost $100 avg. Fare (one way)

Related: Santorini's Top Beachfront Resorts & Villas: Where To Stay For Easy Beach Access

easyJet is one of the most popular low-cost airlines in Europe, and there are many easyJet flights to Santorini. While there are no direct Athens flights to Santorini, there are plenty of other take-off destinations from this giant European budget airline, including Naples, Milan, Geneva, London, and Manchester.

In addition to some of the most convenient and best flights to Santorini, easyJet also offers package deals. All-inclusive Mediterranean experience , anyone?

• EasyJet flights to Santorini cost $50 avg. Fare (one way)

Volotea Airlines is a low-cost Spanish airline that offers affordable flights to Santorini, Greece. With flights operating to Santorini from various cities in Europe, like Athens, Bordeaux, Nantes, Marseille, Venice, and Naples, Volotea Airlines ensures that passengers everywhere can access the stunning island of Santorini.

This is emphasized by several flights per week to Santorini, all at very affordable prices. What's more, though the cost of direct flights to Santorini is dependent on the season and demand, Volotea Airlines is known for having frequent promotions and discounts, so customers are encouraged to check ahead when booking a flight to Santorini, Greece.

• Volotea Airlines flights to Santorini cost $100 avg. Fare (one way)

Eurowings is one of the best airlines to fly in terms of direct flights to Santorini. Though there aren't any Athens flights to Santorini, Eurowings allows passengers to book flights to Santorini from over 20 different airports across Germany, Portugal, the UK, Croatia, Iceland, Cyprus, Italy, Morocco, Hungary, and Spain. Definitely one of the more comprehensive airlines on this list.

With so many starting vacations to choose from or layover airports to spend a few hours in (if traveling from further afield), Eurowings has some of the best flights to Santorini. An added bonus is that the cost of flights to Santorini, Greece, is very affordable at just $100.

• Eurowings flights to Santorini cost $100 avg. Fare (one way)

Related: Santorini Bucket List: 10 Things To Do Will Make Your Trip Unforgettable

British Airways

British Airways is the only big-name airline to have a direct flight to Santorini. Calling at London Heathrow Airport or London City Airport, BA can take passengers on a direct 4-hour flight straight to the Greek island itself. No layovers are required.

Traveling with British Airways is a great choice for guaranteed comfort and quality. Plus, even for Santorini's peak season (that's June to September), BA offers relatively cheap flights to Santorini. If visitors don't mind a very British vacation first, these direct flights to Santorini from the UK are a great way to reach the incredible Greek island.

• BA flights to Santorini cost $120 avg. Fare (one way)

Wizz Air is a great budget airline offering cheap flights to Santorini from all across Europe. Though there aren't any flights to Santorini from Athens, there are a number of direct flights available from major cities, including Tel Aviv, Budapest, Naples, Rome, and Venice. There's even a direct flight to Santorini from Abu Dhabi!

The best time to book flights to Santorini is in April and May because that's pre-peak season, but travelers wouldn't know it by looking at Wizz Air's prices. These genuinely are some of the cheapest flights to Santorini from Europe to be found. A bargain, especially when considering that Wizz Air is one of the safest low-cost airlines in the world .

• WizzAir flights to Santorini cost $40 avg. Fare (one way)

Jet2 is a British low-cost airline and the third-largest airline in the UK. Based in the UK, Jet2 offers direct flights to Santorini from London, Edinburgh, Bristol, Leeds, and Manchester. With the UK to Santorini flight time averaging about 3 hours 30 minutes, passengers will be exploring the picturesque little white houses and basking in the sea and sun in no time.

If Jet2 isn't on the radar, don't worry. Jet2 is viewed as one of the best budget airlines in the UK and has a great rating on TripAdvisor.

• Jet2 flights to Santorini cost $60 avg. fare (one way)

Related: Is Santorini Possible On A Budget? Here Are 10 Ways To Do It

Transavia is a low-cost French airline that boasts seriously affordable flights to Santorini. With direct flights to Santorini Airport France from Paris, Nantes, and Brussels (Belgium) averaging about 3 hours and 30 minutes, Transavia will have passengers jumping into the Aegean Sea before they can finish watching the 1962 classic 'Lawrence of Arabia.'

Although a budget airline, Transavia has been rated the best budget airline in Europe . It's also owned and operated by Air France, so it's a reliable and solid bet for quality flights to Santorini, Greece.

• Transavia flights to Santorini cost $90 avg. Fare (one way)

Premium Content

The island of Santorini is hiding an explosive secret

Over three thousand years ago, a volcanic eruption ended an ancient civilization. A new study offers clues about what the next major eruption could look like.

The Greek island of Santorini is an undeniable aesthetic marvel, with its iconic white-and-blue houses perched high above an azure bay. But this paradisical locale has a spectacularly violent origin story.

Santorini is arc-shaped and has a flooded interior because, in the distant past, colossal eruptions have rapidly excavated a hole out of the center of the island. After each eruption, the Santorini volcano starts to recharge its magma supply, readying itself for another gigantic blast. The most infamous of these outbursts took place in the year 1560 B.C. One of the most powerful eruptions in the past 10,000 years, this explosion and the resulting debris and tsunamis arguably marked the beginning of the end of seafaring Minoan civilization.

The island is currently somewhere in the middle of this cataclysmic cycle, and volcanologists are presently most concerned with the island’s Kameni volcano. Effectively a rooftop extension of the considerably larger Santorini volcano, it’s a small mostly underwater edifice at the heart of Santorini with two peaks, Palea and Nea Kameni, poking above the water.

In the year 726, one of Kameni’s eruptions generated significant explosions and threw out myriad molten matter. Based on volcanic rocks recovered from the eruption, this was thought to be the worst-case scenario that Kameni could produce.

Now, a new study, published in Nature Geoscience , reveals that the actual eruption was one to two orders of magnitude more powerful.

They estimate that at least 100 billion cubic feet of lava, ash, and scorching-hot rocks were expelled from Kameni, making it comparable to the formidable 2022 detonation of the submarine Hunga Tonga–Hunga Ha‘apai volcano in the Pacific. “Such an eruption happening today would have major implications,” says Jonas Preine , a geophysicist at the University of Hamburg in Germany, and the study’s lead author.

This is unwelcome news, both for the 15,000 people who live on Santorini, and for the two million tourists who visit it every single year. “It raises the possibility that moderate to large explosive eruptions may be more likely than previously thought,” says David Pyle , a volcanologist at the University of Oxford who was not involved with the new work.

But “this is not a reason for the people of the Aegean to be panicking right now,” says Preine. The risk of a major eruption in the near future at Santorini is low, and there are no signs that one is on its way soon. And this study boosts volcanologists’ understanding of the island and its eruptive risks, allowing scientists to better shield people from future dangers.

“Submarine volcanoes are expensive to study,” says Preine. “But it’s worth it. There’s a whole zoo of hazards that could be associated with them.”

Investigating Santorini’s volcanic history

Santorini is one of many caldera-forming volcanoes around the world—those that seem to operate on cycles culminating in massive explosions that form a cauldron-shaped depression (the ‘caldera’). The island’s volcanic activity dates back around 650,000 years, and in that time, it has produced at least five of these catastrophic blasts, including that civilization-crippling one in 1560 B.C.

Since then, the island’s volcanic story has been written by the two-peaked Kameni volcano. Producing both effusive, lava-spewing eruptions and decently explosive ones, it last erupted in 1950, and has been quiet aside from some seismic unrest between 2011 and 2012. But that doesn’t mean it’s sleeping.

“The volcano is still fairly active, so there is, of course, always some risk,” says Isobel Yeo , a submarine volcanologist at the National Oceanography Centre in Southampton, England who was not involved with the new work. And when it comes to submarine volcanoes, scientists are acutely aware that they “are capable of taking us by surprise.”

The 726 eruption has been a focus for those hoping to understand how hazardous Kameni might be in the future. Historical accounts sound frightening: it was said that the waters of the bay began to boil, before “the entire sea was on fire,” says Preine—after which, deafening explosions blanketed the sky with ash and the land with pumice stones.

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But the volcanic evidence found by scientists didn’t seem to quite match up to those apocalyptic descriptions. “Pumice only forms and is distributed in explosive eruptions,” says Rebecca Williams , a volcanologist at the University of Hull who was not involved with the new work. But “a significant challenge to fully understanding the eruptive history of an island volcano is that most of the rock record is lost to the sea.”

The 726 eruption was no exception: only small traces of it were left on land. As a result, even though this was known to be a dangerous event, “the impact of this eruption was never really taken seriously,” says Preine.

What will Santorini’s next eruption look like?    

Hoping to decode more of Kameni’s obfuscated volcanic past, members of the International Ocean Discovery Program drilled into the marine basins of the caldera at various sites, extracting sediment cores each time.

In doing so, they found a considerable volume of ash and pumice that they traced back to the 726 eruption. It quickly became clear that this eruption really was as significant and severe as the historic accounts had portrayed it, one that likely involved thunderous underwater booms giving way to towering columns of ash and pumice.

An explosive eruption throwing out 100 billion cubic feet of erupted matter is certainly a frightening thought. But the reality was likely more nightmarish.

“The estimate they provide is at the lower end, because they are using only the volume of material deposited within the caldera,” says Yeo. “Lots of material was likely transported and deposited away from the volcano during the eruption.”

This study raises the possibility that Kameni is capable of greater harm than anyone suspected. A similarly explosive eruption today “raises the possibility not only of substantial ash and pumice fall, but also tsunamis generated by possible ’sector’ collapse of the island, which is built on unstable pumice deposits,” says Kathy Cashman , a volcanologist at the University of Oregon not involved with the work.

The team’s discovery also means that Kameni’s worst-case scenario is, well, worse than previously thought. Fortunately, scientists have long taken the island’s volcanic risks into consideration.

“Santorini should be taken seriously given the volcano’s tsunamigenic potential and the large number of people that could be affected,” says Amy Donovan , a volcanologist at the University of Cambridge who wasn’t involved with the work. “While this paper does say that 726 was bigger than we thought, it doesn’t significantly increase my concern about what was already a concerning volcano for multiple reasons.”

Unsurprisingly, the volcano is also vigilantly monitored around the clock. “Any signs of unrest are likely to be detected in their earliest phases and warnings issued,” says Yeo.

The implications of this research won’t remain local to the island. Santorini is widely considered to be one of the key sites whose study led to the modern science of volcanology. It’s been extensively examined, its every accessible detail forensically analyzed countless times. “And still, it gives us large surprises,” says Preine. “This volcano that you’re looking at every day has some secrets that we’re still discovering.”

What, then, does that say about other caldera-forming volcanoes around the world, especially those submerged beneath the ocean? “If we’ve been unaware of this at Santorini, we’re surely unaware of similar eruptions at other volcanoes,” says Preine. “This is a huge blind spot for the volcanology community.”

The clock is ticking. “Almost no submerged volcanoes are monitored,” says Yeo, “and this needs to change.”

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The best island holiday in Greece is not Santorini

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Mykonos, a celeb-favorite but costly destination, showcases boutiques, buzzing nightlife and a cultural side with a boat trip to Delos island. Photo / 123rf

While Greece’s best-known islands have much to commend them, there are so many more to be discovered, writes Ben West

Most people, when you mention the Greek islands , will think of around four or five, and they’ll most probably be something like Mykonos, Santorini, Rhodes, Crete and Corfu.

However, Greece has anything from around 1500 to 6000 islands, depending on the minimum size to take into account, and 227 are inhabited.

Here’s a rundown of a selection, both some of the better-known and less-known, including suggestions of where to stay. All have regular ferry connections with Athens and often neighbouring islands, and Mykonos, Santorini and Corfu also have airports .

Folegandros

This lovely, small, easygoing island feels like it’s in a time warp from 50 years ago. The little harbour has a handful of boats and cosy tavernas, with a bigger choice in the main town, which is graced with traditional architecture, stone-paved streets, attractive squares and churches.

STAY: Blue Sand Hotel and Suites, a chic boutique hotel.

READ MORE: Greece in every season: There is never a bad time of year to visit

This charming island is not reliant on tourists and therefore mainly Greeks holiday here. The attractive, laid-back capital, Ermapoulis, is home to numerous elegant neoclassical buildings and it’s lovely to stroll up the twisting lanes of the old town - if you have the energy in the heat - to the two churches that are so prominent on the skyline. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes and bars and lovely beaches.

STAY: The Good Life, with stone villas in olive groves, looking over a bay.

If you enjoy being parted from your money at eye-watering levels - in high season a sunbed at Nammos beach can cost €130 ($230) - then you can’t beat the Cycladian island of Mykonos. Yet despite the costs and the crowds, it is worth visiting. Loved by celebs, the capital, Chora, has boutiques laden with designer gear, plenty of restaurants and buzzing nightlife. Best to go in low season, when both the beaches and hotspots are quiet. For a dose of culture take a boat trip to nearby Delos island, a stunning archaeological site with Doric temples and an amphitheatre.

STAY: Kalesma - it’s not cheap but the best Mykonos hotel I’ve stayed in. The 25 suites and villas are gorgeous, the food is excellent.

Overlooked by most visitors to the Greek islands, Karpathos, the second largest of the Dodecanese, has villages from another age and some fantastic beaches - there are 200 in total. There are 125 miles of hiking paths and if you can stomach the narrow, twisting mountain roads you can discover delightful villages such as Arkasa, which has been inhabited for 3000 years, or Mesochori, with its whitewashed houses and pretty Vrysiani church, one of some 300 churches on the island.

STAY: Comfortable Konstantinos Palace in Pigadia, the main town, with a seafront lined with restaurants.

Being located between the Greek and Italian mainlands, the local cuisine here is distinctly different, with traditional dishes that have an Italian touch, which is not surprising considering that the Venetians occupied the island for four centuries. Their influence is also plain to see in the pleasantly compact Corfu city, with its elegant Venetian architecture. Having quite a lush and green interior, the beaches on the west coast tend to be sandy, and more pebbly and sheltered on the east coast.

STAY: Courti Estate, one of the most luxurious villas on the island.

Located close to Athens, Poros is made up of two islands, Kalavria and Sferia, which are connected by a small bridge. Poros makes a great base for water sports, having some great beaches, and you can hike and bike through its pine woods. Pretty Poros town boasts a seafront lined with neoclassical buildings. It’s a good destination for culture vultures too, with museums, the 18th-century Zoodochos Pigi Monastery, and archaeological sites such as the temple of Poseidon, dating from 520BC.

STAY: The inexpensive New Aegli Hotel is located by blue-flag accredited Askeli Beach.

Life is deliciously slow on this idyllic Cycladic island known for its excellent isolated sandy beaches and coves, traditional villages, picturesque windmills, pottery and ceramic art. Yet among the tranquillity, the bars and restaurants of the hilltop capital, Apollonia, come to life in the evenings, especially on Saturday nights. A must-see is the traditional village of Artemonas, known for its neoclassical mansions.

STAY: Kamaroti, unpretentiously stylish, and loved by families and romantic couples alike.

Another of the lesser-known islands of the Cyclades, its south is almost uninhabited. The capital, Chora or Mesaria, offers a smattering of those ingredients visitors to the Greek islands adore, such as whitewashed houses and cobbled streets, windmills and little churches, peppered with a few tavernas and bars. There are further traditional villages to explore such as the port, Merihas, Dryopida and Agios Dimitrios, and beaches are seldom far away. Thermal springs and Byzantine monuments also beckon.

STAY: Kythnos Bay Hotel. Chic and stylish and a short walk from the beach.

Despite being one of the priciest and busiest islands, Santorini’s blue-domed churches and spectacular caldera are beautiful to behold. There are lovely hikes to quiet villages, and watching the sunset at Oia is not to be missed, although this can be taxing in high season because of the crowds. Be sure to take the 10-minute water taxi to neighbouring Thirasia island, which is so unspoilt, you feel like you are living in 1950. Explore Thirasia can fix up walking tours and e-mountain bikes for exploring.

STAY: Ikies at Oia is a charming, romantic cave hotel hideaway.

The northernmost of the islands, located in the North Aegean, it is also one of the greenest, its mountains framed by sandy beaches. You can explore the charming mountain villages and ancient ruins, but essentially this is the perfect island to laze away the days. There are plenty of tracks perfect for hiking and biking.

STAY: A For Art Design Hotel boasts a good restaurant and bars, and is near the port.

For more things to do in Greece, see visitgreece.gr

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