5.7K (Five Point Seven Thousand)
Santorini Greece is renowned for its charming old white-and-blue buildings, luxurious high-end hotels featuring infinity pools, and breathtaking ocean views.
Exploring Santorini on a Budget: Free Activities and Attractions
Experience the Greek Islands with a must-see visit to Santorini, easily accessible from Athens and other major European cities.
Explore Santorini: A Comprehensive Travel Guide with Accommodation, Transportation, and Activities Recommendations
Best Accommodation Options in Santorini
Top-rated Tours in Santorini
If you have a limited time in Santorini, like a few days or less, consider taking a day tour to explore the island.
Consider choosing GetYourGuide for your Santorini tours! They offer highly rated private and shared tours that visit popular attractions such as Oia, Pyrgos, and Perissa.
Hire a professional photographer to capture stunning photos of you in a beautiful dress, with the backdrop of Santorini’s iconic buildings and seascape, just like the ones you often admire on Instagram.
We have utilized this company for numerous day tours and activities across the globe, and they have consistently delivered an excellent experience. I highly recommend them.
Secure Your Spot: Private Tour and Photoshoot in Santorini, Greece
Where can I find the island of Santorini?
Santorini: A Greek Island in the Aegean Sea, Southeast of Mainland Greece
Santorini: The Most Famous Island in the Cyclades and Greece
The volcanic origins of Santorini are evident in the presence of natural hot springs and other remnants of volcanic activity around the caldera, making for an interesting sightseeing opportunity.
Traveling to Santorini, Greece: A Guide
You can get to Santorini island by either taking a flight or a ferry.
The most convenient and quickest way to reach Santorini is by flying, although it is also the most expensive option. Santorini airport (JTR) receives daily direct flights from Athens, as well as from international cities such as Frankfurt, London, and Rome.
What is the duration and cost of a one-way flight from Athens to Santorini with Aegean/Olympic Air or Sky Express?
Aegean (or its subsidiary Olympic Air) is the preferred airline over Sky Express if you have the option, although both are acceptable. Ticket prices typically include free checked baggage.
Purchase Now: Book your flights to Santorini through Skyscanner
Traveling to Santorini from Athens by ferry is less expensive than flying, although it is more complex and significantly slower.
How to Get to Santorini by Ferry from Piraeus or Rafina
Explore More of Greece with Island Hopping Beyond Santorini
One possibility is to travel to Santorini for a short visit, then take a ferry to Mykonos, and finally return to Athens by flying from Mykonos. This could be a fantastic choice!
Exploring Santorini: Transportation Options for Getting Around
Exploring Santorini’s Small Towns on Foot and by Transport
Using the bus is an affordable and convenient way to travel around Santorini, with stations located in key areas across the island, particularly in Fira. The bus system is inexpensive and particularly accessible during the summer months when there is high tourist activity in Greece. However, during the low season, there may be fewer bus connections, making it less convenient for travel.
For short trips around town, Uber is not available, but you can easily hire a taxi. When we were in Santorini, we opted for Welcome Pickups for our airport transfers and were very satisfied with the service. They have clean vehicles and dependable drivers who will transport you between the airport and your hotel.
Renting a car or ATV is a great option for transportation on Santorini island. There are numerous companies that offer car rentals, but we suggest DiscoverCars!
Navigating the roads of Santorini can be a bit nerve-wracking, but overall not too challenging, and the majority of the roads are well-maintained. One of the primary challenges is locating parking, as it is quite limited due to the small size of the island.
Navigating Town Traffic and Narrow Roads: Tips for Safe Driving
Greeks Drive on the Right Side of the Road and Foreign Tourists No Longer Need IDP in Greece
During our initial trip to Santorini, we primarily relied on the bus for transportation around the island. We only decided to rent a car for a few days to access the more secluded areas that are less accessible by bus. This arrangement was very successful. If you prefer not to drive in Santorini and don’t want to deal with the bus schedule, you also have the option of exploring the island through a private or shared tour.
Top Activities in Santorini, Greece
1. The Village of Oia
Oia Village: Home to Stunning Views, Charming Accommodations, and Rich History in Santorini.
Oia: The Iconic Destination in Santorini, Greece with Countless Sights and Activities
Don’t miss the iconic view of Oia Castle, which offers a stunning panorama of the entire town, including its whitewashed windmills and closely grouped buildings.
This spot is well-liked for its sunset views, but we also enjoyed it during the daytime when there are fewer people.
A great spot for taking photos in Oia is the viewpoint with a stunning view of the famous three blue domes of Santorini.
Capture Stunning Photos of These Churches from Both Sides, but Expect to Wait in Line Due to High Demand. Please be considerate of photographers and their clients.
After exploring Oia town, take a stroll down to Ammoudi Bay to experience the fish tavernas and the Mediterranean Sea up close.
Best Accommodation Options in Oia: Choose Between Alexander’s Suites (Budget) or La Perla Villas (Luxury)
Fira Village: A Guide to the Charming Town
Fira, the capital of Santorini Greece, is a popular tourist destination on the island.
Similar to Oia, Fira offers breathtaking caldera views, along with plenty of upscale lodging and picturesque dining options. A must-see photo opportunity in Fira is the view of the iconic three bells.
Our preferred location in town, however, was the area above the Church of St. John the Theologian. It is a fantastic historic building with an equally impressive history.
Discover two fascinating museums in Fira for museum enthusiasts – the Archaeological Museum of Thera and the Museum of Prehistoric Thera.
Fira: The Central Bus Hub of Santorini, Greece, Easily Accessible from Anywhere on the Island. You can even walk or hike from Fira to Imerovigli (or vice versa) in less than 30 minutes.
Accommodation options in Fira: Bedspot Hostel for budget travelers or Athina Suites for those seeking luxury accommodations
Imerovigli: A Charming Greek Village
Imerovigli: A Hidden Gem in Santorini with the Best of Both Worlds
Explore Skaros Rock and Theoskepasti Church while hiking for stunning views of Imerovigli and the Venetian Castle ruins built in 1207.
It is convenient to visit Fira and access the main bus station from Imerovigli, as it is possible to walk or hike between the two in less than 30 minutes.
Accommodation options in Imerovigli: Choose between Casa Bianca for budget-friendly stays or Absolute Bliss for a luxurious experience.
Perissa Beach – A Guide
The Perissa region in Santorini offers a relaxed atmosphere with its expansive black sand beach spanning over 3 kilometers (2 miles), and it is also home to numerous beachfront hotels and restaurants.
Perissa, along with the Kamari area, is renowned for being one of the most budget-friendly areas in Santorini. It’s a fantastic spot to enjoy inexpensive Greek cuisine and browse for souvenirs. We had some incredibly affordable gyros here!
Our top pick for beaches in Santorini is the beautiful Perissa Beach. Don’t forget to snap some photos of the Church of the Holy Cross, located near the bus station, for some sightseeing.
Explore Santorini’s Hiking Trails and Visit the Monastery near Perissa
You can also access the ruins of Ancient Thera using this path, but be prepared for a steep climb to the top of the mountain, so don’t forget to bring a hat and water!
Accommodations in the Perissa area cater to a variety of budgets, offering both affordable hotels and luxury options on Santorini island.
Accommodation Options in Perissa: Villa Dima for Budget Travelers or Anastasia Princess for Luxury Seekers
Additional Activities to Experience in Santorini, Greece
Additional activities to consider during an extended stay in Santorini island.
Megalochori Village
Megalochori: An Underrated Gem in Santorini with Charming Streets and Stunning Photo Opportunities
We wish we could have had more time in Megalochori! It’s a hidden gem that still remains peaceful and not as crowded as Oia. There are many hotels and restaurants to choose from if you want to extend your stay.
It’s easy to reach Megalochori from the main bus station in Fira, and there is ample parking near the town if you prefer to drive.
Accommodation Options in Megalochori: Villa Katerina (Midrange) versus Ducato Wine Villas (Luxury)
The Tower of Pyrgos
Pyrgos: The Former Capital of Santorini, Greece, Still Worth a Visit!
Pyrgos offers more than just its medieval castle – the charming narrow streets, cafes, and restaurants are also worth exploring, making it a fun destination for shopping and sightseeing.
Pyrgos didn’t have the same level of beauty as Megalochori, but we still found it very enjoyable, and it’s conveniently accessible from Fira by bus, car, or ATV.
Best Accommodation Options in Pyrgos: Choosing between Bluewhite Villa (Midrange) and Aeon Suites (Luxury)
The Mountain of Prophet Elias
Mount Prophet Elias: The Tallest Peak in Santorini
In addition to offering stunning panoramic views of Santorini island, this mountain provides a peaceful vantage point for witnessing the sunrise or sunset, away from the bustling crowds of Oia. From this vantage point, visitors can also observe the planes taking off and landing at the airport, making it a must-see attraction in Santorini.
Accessing the Mountain via a Scenic Drive and Limited Parking – Tips for a Smooth Visit!
Akrotiri Lighthouse: A Guide to the Historic Beacon
Discover the 19th century lighthouse at the southwest tip of Santorini island. While it may not be as well-known as other attractions on the island, it is easily accessible by rental car with ample parking available.
The Akrotiri Lighthouse, constructed by a French company in 1892, stands as one of the oldest lighthouses in Greece. While visitors are unable to enter the building, the surrounding views are lovely, making it a delightful spot for watching passing boats.
It is also a favorite spot for watching the sunset, but be sure to hang onto your hat as it can be quite windy at times!
Akrotiri Museum – A Tourist Destination for History Enthusiasts
The Akrotiri Museum showcases the remains of an ancient city and archaeological site in Santorini that was preserved under volcanic ash in the 17th century BC.
Explore the well-preserved houses, pottery, and other artworks while learning fascinating facts about the ancient settlement.
This is an ideal destination for history enthusiasts in Santorini, especially as it is conveniently situated near the Red Beach, allowing visitors to easily explore both attractions in a single trip.
Reserve Your Akrotiri Museum Tickets or Private Tour Now
Top Beaches in Santorini
Santorini’s Beaches: Why They’re Mostly Black Sand
The red beach in Santorini is renowned for its picturesque beauty, with its vibrant color derived from the volcanic rocks lining the shore. Even for those who aren’t usually drawn to beaches, this one is definitely a must-see due to its distinctive red hue!
Top Choices for Beachfront Accommodation in Perissa and Kamari Areas
Map of Santorini Island
Explore the top destinations to visit with this map of Santorini island.
Feel free to explore more information and directions for each point of interest on the map by clicking the icons, but please note that the locations may not be exact.
Top Locations for Watching the Sunrise and Sunset in Santorini, Greece
The best spot to watch the sunset in Santorini is Oia, where the Castle of Oia attracts hundreds of tourists every evening. It can get very crowded, so if you want to take sunset photos, it’s best to arrive early. Another option for a less crowded sunset spot in Oia is the iconic three blue domes.
Prophet Elias Mountain: A Fantastic Sunset Spot in Santorini
Limited Sunrise Options in Santorini, Including Perissa and Kamari Beach
Finally, there are numerous sunset tour options available in Santorini that come with complimentary hotel transportation. You have the choice to embark on a sunset catamaran cruise, engage in kayaking or horseback riding during sunset, or witness the breathtaking sunset at the iconic Oia castle.
Reserve Your Spot: Sunset Cruise, Kayaking, Horseback Riding, and Oia Castle Tour in Santorini
Additional Advice for Santorini
- Paying for Expenses and Staying Connected in Santorini
You can use your credit card for most purchases in Santorini, but it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand. Smaller restaurants may only accept cash, and there is a possibility of card machines not working. ATMs are easily accessible throughout the island, and it’s recommended to withdraw 200 Euros at a time to avoid any issues. Be cautious of the ATMs offering their own conversion rate, as it is typically unfavorable. Cell phone reception is reliable across Santorini, and the internet quality is generally good for basic tasks like emailing, browsing, and streaming.
- Language: Greek is the primary language in Santorini, but most people also speak English for communication, as the island is popular among American and British tourists. Mosquitoes: There are very few mosquitoes in Santorini, and there is no known presence of the West Nile Virus, so the risk of mosquito-borne diseases is low. Water: The tap water in Santorini is considered safe to drink, but it is not very palatable. Bottled water is widely available and inexpensive, and it is recommended for drinking. Tap water can be used for cooking and personal hygiene.
Is it safe to visit Santorini?
Absolutely, Santorini is a very secure destination to visit, even beyond the resort zones. We spent weeks thoroughly exploring every part of the island, and never once felt in danger.
Greece’s low homicide rate makes it a safe destination. By taking normal precautions, visitors should not encounter any crime-related issues and can feel at ease.
We visited Santorini as a couple, but after our trip, I am eager to return as a solo traveler without any concerns.
Can You Visit Santorini Without Spending a Fortune?
Santorini is accessible to more than just the wealthy, and it is possible to visit on a budget without staying in a luxury hotel.
During our initial trip to Santorini, we lodged in Perissa close to the beach, and relied on the public bus to affordably explore neighboring regions such as Oia, Fira, and Imerovigli.
We were not staying in the most luxurious parts of Santorini, but we were able to easily visit them for sightseeing and photos, which was satisfactory for us. We decided to rent a car for a few days to access some of the more secluded areas that are difficult to reach by bus.
We enjoyed delicious meals in Perissa for just 3 Euros per person, and our hotel (Studios Apartments Kapetanios) cost 65 Euros per day. It’s not extremely cheap, but it’s still a good deal.
Consider that this was one of the popular summer months (September), and it was an exceptionally busy year for tourism in Greece (2022). Therefore, it is possible to do everything even more affordably than we did.
Yes, it’s definitely feasible to travel to Santorini on a budget with the right planning!
How much time should I spend in Santorini, Greece?
Santorini has a timeless appeal that makes you want to stay forever. Enjoying the pool, basking in the sun, being near the sea, and savoring Greek cuisine never loses its charm.
You can explore the best of Santorini, Greece, including Oia, Fira, Imerovigli, and Perissa, in 3 or 4 days. For a more leisurely visit with additional places like Pyrgos and Megalochori, a week or longer is recommended.
We enjoyed nearly a fortnight in Santorini, which may be longer than most visitors stay, but it allowed us to unwind by the pool and explore the majority of the island at a leisurely pace.
Exploring Santorini: A Guide to Your Greece Adventure
A suggested 3-day itinerary for exploring Santorini island
- Day 1: Explore Oia. Wander through the charming streets of Oia town, take in the breathtaking views of the historic white buildings and Santorini windmills. Visit the iconic Castle of Oia for a picturesque view of the town, then head down to Ammoudi Bay to experience the fish tavernas. Enjoy a delightful meal at one of the many scenic restaurants overlooking Santorini, and end the day with a sunset viewing at Oia Castle. Day 2: Discover Fira & Imerovigli. Take a leisurely stroll around Fira town and admire the famous three bells of Fira, as well as the Church of St. John the Theologian. Then, hike or take a bus to Imerovigli town to see the beautiful churches, flowers, and ocean vistas. Hike out to Skaros Rock and Theoskepasti Church. Day 3: Enjoy Perissa. Spend time in the Perissa area, relaxing on the black sand beach, browsing for souvenirs, and savoring delicious and affordable meals at Greek restaurants. Visit the Church of the Holy Cross and capture some memorable photos. For hiking enthusiasts, climb up to the monastery on the mountainside (Chapel of Panagia Katefiani). End the day by driving up Prophet Elias mountain for a stunning sunset.
I trust that this will provide inspiration for your future trip to Santorini! There is plenty to explore in these locations, so you may want to consider extending your stay.
Spend a full day in Fira and Imerovigli if you have 4 or 5 days in Santorini instead of trying to visit both places in one day.
Explore Pyrgos and Megalochori, as well as the Akrotiri Museum and Akrotiri Lighthouse, for a full day of sightseeing.
When is the ideal time to travel to Santorini, Greece?
When is the ideal time to visit Santorini island depends on your preferences.
The best time to visit Santorini for nice weather is typically from late April to early November. These months are consistently warm and sunny, with lower rainfall compared to winter. The transitional months of spring and autumn can be perfect for those seeking pleasant weather without the large crowds.
The peak summer months in Greece, July and August, bring high temperatures reaching around 29 °C (85 °F) and lows of about 23 °C (73 °F). This makes it perfect for enjoying a swim in a pool or relaxing at the beach, but keep in mind that these months tend to be busier with tourists.
Santorini’s winter weather is relatively mild, with cooler and wetter conditions but never too cold for a visit. High temperatures hover around 15 °C (60 °F), while lows are around 10 °C (50 °F). It’s the perfect time for enjoying a jacuzzi! The winter season is also less crowded and more affordable, making it a great time to find deals on hotels and activities.
No matter when you choose to visit Santorini, you can expect to have an unforgettable experience!
Hotels in Santorini
Additional Travel Guides for Greece
We appreciate you taking the time to read this! We hope you found this travel guide to Santorini island in Greece helpful and enjoyable.
Stay tuned for upcoming travel guides on the Greek islands! Keep an eye out for new releases!
Have a wonderful journey!