Travel Guide to Santorini Greece

Welcome to my full travel guide to Santorini, Greece – enjoy the read and my personal insights and recommendations!

I’ve been to Santorini more times than I planned to. People love to call it overrated. They’ll tell you it’s packed with cruise ships, overpriced cave hotels, and the same sunset every influencer’s already posted. Fair. But also—not the full picture.

Yes, it’s busy in parts. But you can time it right and have the famous spots to yourself. Yes, it’s expensive in places, but it doesn’t have to be. And no matter how many times I’ve seen that view—the one where the island falls away into the sea, steep and jagged, with villages somehow clinging to the cliffs—it still messes with my head. The scale of it. The light. The ridiculous beauty of this island.

You don’t get that anywhere else and I genuinely think everyone should see it for themselves at least once.

Full Travel Guide to Santorini, Greece — *The view of white houses from Old Castle Oia*

HOW TO GET TO SANTORINI?

If you’re coming from Europe, flying is the quickest and easiest option. Direct flights run from most major cities between April and October—London, Paris, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Rome. Out of season, you’ll likely need to connect via Athens. Click HERE to search for the perfect flight connection from your city of choice.

You can also arrive by ferry. There are regular crossings from Athens’ Piraeus Port and nearby islands like Naxos, Paros, and Mykonos. The journey takes 5–8 hours depending on the boat. Book in advance through Ferryhopper—it’s simple and doesn’t charge extra fees.

WHEN TO VISIT SANTORINI?

Santorini is at its best just before it gets busy.

In 2025, the first cruise ship docked on May 14th—if you’re planning a spring trip, try to arrive before that. April and early May are ideal: warm days, cool nights, and streets that haven’t yet been claimed by tour groups and selfie sticks.

High season (June to August) is hot and crowded. Prices soar, buses fill up, and the sun hits hard. If you must go in summer, book early and stay somewhere with a pool. September and early October are also lovely—less chaotic, still sunny, and the sea’s had all summer to warm up.

WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE IN SANTORINI?

Santorini has hot, dry summers and mild winters. June to September is peak season, with plenty of sunshine and temperatures in the high 20s to low 30s °C. Shoulder season—April, May, late September, and October—brings fewer crowds and still-warm days, but it can be hit or miss. You might get perfect sunshine or a few cloudy spells, which sometimes means no sunset (though you can still get lucky).

One thing to know: it can get windy. The Meltemi winds often pick up in late spring and summer, especially on exposed parts of the island. It’s nothing dramatic, but it’s worth factoring in—especially if you’re planning beach days. Winter is quieter, cooler (around 15°C), and much of the island shuts down, but it’s peaceful if that’s what you’re after.

HOW MANY DAYS TO PLAN FOR SANTORINI?

Some people drop in for a night on their way to another island. Others book a week and barely leave their hotel terrace.

I think four or five days is perfect.

This is enough time to explore without rushing. To hike from Fira to Oia, swim at least twice, have a long lazy lunch in Pyrgos. To see the sunset from somewhere quiet or to do a boat trip if you feel like it. Santorini is not a huge island and you can see it’s highlights in one full day. But if you want to enjoy it to the fullest and explore the hidden gems, stay for a few nights!

GETTING AROUND SANTORINI

Taxis are expensive and rare. A one-way trip to Oia can cost €40–50. If you book through your hotel, expect to pay over €100. Honestly, renting a car (with full insurance) is often cheaper and gives you the freedom to explore without stress.

Driving isn’t hard, but the roads are narrow, and parking in villages like Oia can be a headache. However, if you travel early in a day, you won’t have issues with finding a parking space.

If you’re not driving, buses are the next best thing. They’re cheap (around €2) and reliable, but they all pass through Fira. That means even if you’re going from Oia to Imerovigli, you’ll need to change. In summer, they fill up fast—don’t count on getting a seat.

Scooters and ATVs are everywhere in Santorini—and they look like the fun option. But in reality I almost always go for a rental car. If you’ve got luggage, want air-con, or don’t fancy navigating steep roads with a crosswind in your face, a car just makes more sense. And the rates are often the same, especially once you factor in full insurance (much recommended!).

TOP THINGS TO DO IN SANTORINI

Everyone talks about sunsets and white buildings—but there’s more to Santorini if you know where to look. Here’s what’s actually worth doing:

Hike from Fira to Oia – The most solid way to take in the island. Around 10 km along the caldera edge, with a mix of villages, viewpoints, and quiet stretches. Start early, wear proper shoes, and bring water—it’s exposed the whole way.
Sunset drink at Lycabettus – No, you don’t have to stay for dinner. Just go for a drink, watch the light change, and enjoy not fighting for a spot on a wall with 300 other people.

Walk down to Amoudi Bay for lunch – Dimitris Ammoudi Taverna is a reliable pick, right on the water.
Do a wine tasting – Santorini’s wines are actually good, not just “holiday good.” Santo Wines is the most popular, with a big terrace and caldera views. If you want something quieter, try Venetsanos Winery nearby.
Explore Pyrgos – Underrated village with barely any crowds, good food, and proper views. Go mid-morning or late afternoon. It’s calm, local and has some of the most beautiful sunset lookouts.
Visit the Akrotiri ruins – It’s a prehistoric city covered in volcanic ash, and it’s indoors, so you can visit even when the sun’s brutal. Quick visit, but worth it if you’re even mildly into history.

Watch the sunset from Imerovigli – Same sky, fewer people. Head toward Skaros Rock, or just find a quiet wall with a view. Bring snacks.
Beach time at Perissa or Kamari – No caldera views here, but easy swimming, sunbeds, and lots of food options. Black sand can get very hot, so bring sandals.
Get on a boat – Plenty of tours go around the caldera, out to the volcano, or down the coast. Most include swimming stops and food. Not essential, but a good way to see the island from a different angle and get off land for a few hours.

THE BEST RESTAURTANTS IN SANTORINI

Santorini’s packed with restaurants—some amazing, some overpriced, some just chasing sunset views. These are the spots that are actually worth your time (and money), whether you’re after a proper dinner, a casual lunch, or just something quick between hikes.

🔥 Casual, local, and just genuinely good:

Pitogyros (Oia) – €6 for a loaded, crispy halloumi gyro in fresh pita. Fast, no-fuss, always hits the spot. Take it to go and find a quiet spot to eat with a view.
Lucky’s Souvlakis (Fira) – Tiny, hectic, and an absolute must. Grab a stool if you can, or eat it standing on the street like everyone else.
Tasos Tavern (near Vourvoulos) – Run by a kind local man who greets you like family. Big plates of honest Greek food at decent prices.
Taverna Tzanakis (Megalochori) – No sunset, no sea view, no crowd—just locals, home-cooked food, and chilled vibes. Exactly what you want after too much time in Oia.
Lava Tavern (Akrotiri) – Friendly service, fresh fish, and no pressure. Go for lunch after a visit to the ruins.

🧀 Sit-down meals that feel relaxed but still special:

Melitini (Oia) – Elevated Greek tapas in a chill setting. Order a mix of small plates, sit on the upstairs terrace, and stay a while.
Meze Meze (Exo Gonia) – Great local wine, proper meze menu, and a casual vibe with mountain views.
Panigyri Festival Food (Fira) – Modern taverna-style spot with a playful take on classic dishes. Trendy but not try-hard.
Metaxi Mas (Exo Gonia) – A bit of a local legend. Gets busy, for good reason—big portions, fair prices, and everything tastes homemade. Reserve ahead.

🐟 Seaside spots that aren’t just about the view:

Dimitris Ammoudi Taverna (Amoudi Bay) – One of the best in the bay for fresh seafood. Book ahead for a table right on the water and skip the donkey ride—walk the steps or drive down.
Armeni (Armeni Bay) – Worth the effort to get there (boat or hike). You sit right by the water, order straight from the day’s catch, and stay until you’re full.

🍷 Drinks and finer dining (if you’re into that):

Lycabettus (Oia) – One of the best spots for a sunset drink. You don’t need to commit to the full dinner—just come for a cocktail and the view.
Selene (Pyrgos) – Fine dining meets Greek roots. Upscale, but not pretentious. Great if you’re into wine—there’s a whole tasting experience built into the menu.

THE BEST HOTELS IN SANTORINI (BY BUDGET)

💸 High-End / Luxury

Big views, private pools, and all the extras. Click on the hotel name for quick booking.

Charisma Suites (Oia) – Classic cave-style suites with some of the best sunset views in Oia. Private plunge pools, lots of privacy, and calm vibes.
Chromata Hotel (Imerovigli) – Stylish, modern, and super well-located. Infinity pool overlooking the caldera. Adults only.
Nobu Hotel Santorini (Imerovigli) – Contemporary design, cliffside views, and one of the most iconic restaurants on the island. Feels very private.
Olvos Luxury Suites (Oia) – Sleek interiors, quiet atmosphere, and top-tier service. More under-the-radar than some of its neighbours, but just as luxe. It has only 3 suites so feels very private.
Aspaki by Art Maisons (Oia) – Built right above the famous blue domes. Unbeatable location if you want to wake up to that view without a crowd in sight.
Canaves Ena (Oia) – A smaller, more intimate version of its sister properties. Clean, elegant design with cliffside views and great service.
Canaves Oia Suites (Oia) – Refined and romantic. Think private jacuzzis, whitewashed interiors, and seamless service.
Mystique (Oia) – Carved into the cliff with a peaceful, high-end aesthetic.
Saint Santorini (Oia) – Modern suites with plunge pools and minimalist styling. Very Instagrammable but still feels relaxed.

The best hotels in Santorini, Greece — *Charisma Suites Santorini*

💶 Mid-Range

Stylish and comfortable without blowing your budget.

Enarma Suites & Spa Wellness Retreat (Pyrgos) – Peaceful, modern retreat tucked away from the crowds. Private jacuzzis and a great spa.
Belvedere Suites (Firostefani) – Clean, great views, and walking distance to both Fira and Imerovigli. A solid mid-range pick.
Magma Santorini (Vourvoulos) – Modern, design-led hotel in a quieter area. Great for those who want to relax away from the buzz.
North Santorini – A Luxury Spa Hotel (Pyrgos) – Luxe feel, but more affordable than Oia/Imerovigli. Spa, pool, and a proper breakfast spread.
Remezzo Villas (Imerovigli) – Well-located, with traditional design and amazing views. Super friendly staff and fair prices.
Kapari Natural Resort (Imerovigli) – Great location and classic Cycladic cave-style rooms. Known for excellent service and caldera views.
El Destino Suites (Akrotiri ) – Comfortable and good value.

🧳 Budget-Friendly

Clean, comfortable and easy on the wallet.

Voca Hotel (Kamari) – Simple, modern, and a quick drive or walk to Fira. Great value.
Onyx Hotel & Suites (Karterados) – Good location near the centre, updated interiors, and friendly service.
Elements Cozy Suites (Pyrgos) – Clean and quiet, with a relaxed, local vibe. Excellent choice for budget travellers who want to avoid the tourist zones.
Emerald Collection Suites (Karterados) – Newer hotel with clean design and a pool. Well-priced for what you get.
MAR n MAR Crown Hotel & Suites (Karterados) – Good-sized rooms and a decent pool. Convenient location near Fira.
Afora Houses (Pyrgos) – A quiet, self-catering option in one of the most authentic villages on the island. Great if you like a bit more independence.
San Giorgio (Fira) – Central, clean, and reliable. A strong option for anyone wanting to be close to the buzz without paying Oia prices.

BOOKING LINKS TO SANTORINI BEST HOTELS

Click on the image for direct booking.

TAKING PHOTOS IN SANTORINI

If you’re planning to shoot in Santorini—whether it’s just for the memories or for your feed—go early. The best time is just before sunrise, when the light is soft, the streets are empty-ish. Oia especially is a different place at that hour. Walking around right after sunrise, when the village is still quiet, is hands-down one of the best experiences here. Sunsets here will be packed.

For photo spots, the most iconic ones are obvious—but still worth it. Head to the Old Castle in Oia for the wide caldera view (especially at sunrise or blue hour), the classic blue domes (check both angles—from the viewpoint near Kastro’s House and from the lower side), Amoudi Bay from above, and the three bells of Fira near the Petros Nomikos Conference Centre. But apart from the most iconic spots, just take an early wander and you will spot so many gorgeous locations to shoot around!

Just a heads-up: during late morning, afternoon or at sunset, the most famous photo spots—like the bells near Aspaki Hotel or the blue domes viewpoint—will have queues. It’s normal. Just wait your turn, be polite, and don’t cut corners. There are also lots of local photographers running paid shoots, especially in Oia in the mornings and evenings. They’re working, and this is their livelihood, so give them space and don’t crowd their sessions. Santorini has enough viewpoints for everyone—take your time and you’ll find something that feels just as good as the postcard shots.

CAN YOU FLY A DRONE IN SANTORINI?

Flying a drone in Santorini can be incredible—but only if you do it properly. Much of the island, especially along the caldera in places like Oia, Fira, and Imerovigli, falls under strict no-fly zones due to airspace regulations and the dense layout of the villages. That said, not all of Santorini is off-limits. Some areas—like parts of the southern caldera near Oia—do not restrict flights flights, and you’ll often see signs indicating where it’s forbidden. Always check updated drone maps and follow local signage before launching.

If you fly, keep your distance from hotels and private villas. Many of the cliffside suites are open-air and built for privacy—flying too close is not just rude, it’s a fast track to complaints. Early mornings are best for light, fewer people, and calmer conditions.

Things Not to Do in Santorini

There’s a lot of advice on what to do in Santorini, but not enough on what to avoid. Here’s a short list that’ll make your trip better—and keep you from being that tourist.

Don’t be a passive cruise visitor. If you’re coming in just for the day on a cruise, remember: this island isn’t a theme park. It’s a real place, with people who live and work here—and they’re overwhelmed by the volume of people who breeze through without spending a cent. Even if your cruise is all-inclusive, grab lunch at a local taverna, buy something small from a shop, or support a family-run winery. Your presence should leave something behind besides footprints and traffic.
Do not ride the donkeys. Especially the ones walking up from Amoudi Bay to Oia. It’s 300+ steep steps, yes—but if you’re healthy – walk and take as many stops on your way up as you need. This climb honestly isn’t that hard. These animals are working in extreme heat, on slippery stairs, often carrying more than they should. It’s unnecessary and uncomfortable to witness. If you’re going down for lunch or a photo, take the steps or drive—just don’t add your weight to the problem.
Don’t treat the roads like a racetrack. Santorini’s roads are narrow, winding, and full of blind corners. You’ll see a lot of ATVs and scooters zipping around, but many drivers have no experience with them. If you’re renting a vehicle, take it seriously—drive slowly, wear a helmet, and pull over to let others pass when needed.
Don’t climb on rooftops or churches for photos. Not everything is a photo op. Many of those perfect white domes are actual places of worship. If a spot looks off-limits, it probably is. Be respectful—don’t trespass just for a selfie.
Don’t try to do the entire island in one day. Santorini may be small, but trying to squeeze it all into a single rushed itinerary will ruin the experience. Pick a few things and actually enjoy them.

Useful Things to Know Before You Go

Just a few practical tips that’ll help you out while you’re on the island:

Don’t drink the tap water. It’s technically safe, but high in minerals and not great for your stomach.
Most businesses take cards—but not all. It’s smart to have a bit of cash, especially in smaller villages or family-run places.
Tipping isn’t expected, but appreciated.
Wi-Fi is available, but spotty in some areas. Most hotels and restaurants have decent connections, but don’t rely on it everywhere.
Plug type is standard European (Type C or F), 220V. Bring a travel adapter if needed.
Shops close midday in some places. Especially in less touristy villages, you might find shops or bakeries closing between 2–5 pm.
Use sunscreen even on a cloudy day
Always ask for a drinks menu—or check prices before ordering. A few restaurants skip giving you the drinks list, and suddenly your casual lunch costs €150. At Avocado in Imerovigli, I was charged €25 for a small beer. Don’t assume prices are standard—if no menu appears, ask. Especially for wine, beer, or cocktails.
Bring good shoes – The pathways can be very sleepery