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Plan Your Santorini Holiday: Best of Santorini

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Explore Santorini

This Cyclades island in the Aegean Sea looks like a place straight out of a fairy tale, with candy-coloured houses carved into cliffs, sapphire waters, and chalk-white buildings topped with cobalt-blue domes. Roam the peaceful black-sand beaches or stroll the streets of one of Santorini’s charming villages (start at Imerovigli). And no matter where your day takes you, wind it down in beautiful Oia: It’s world-famous for its sunsets, which cycle through a kaleidoscope of colours in their spectacular nightly show.
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How to do Santorini in 2 days

Volcanic beaches, wine tours, and hiking trails
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The top tastes of Santorini

Close your eyes and picture a Greek Island paradise. It’s most likely Santorini you see. Golden hour over the blue domes of Oia. The whitewashed buildings of Fira. It’s all stunning. And during multiple visits, I’ve discovered the island’s food scene is as spectacular as the scenery. From fancy fare to super-fresh seafood—all with a view—here are my unique finds for mouthwatering wining and dining.
timjohnsontravels, Toronto, Canada
  • Captain Loizos Fish Restaurant
    417
    Before tourists discovered Santorini, fishing was one of its mainstays and local fishermen still reel in an impressive daily catch. Captain Loizos, on a quiet stretch of beach near the airport, is one of my favourite, under-the-radar spots for fresh seafood. I enjoy everything at this small, unpretentious, family-owned restaurant, but the shrimp saganaki, stuffed calamari, and ultra-fresh catch of the day—your choice of red snapper, sea bass, swordfish—are guaranteed home runs.
  • Le Moustache Caldera Pool Lounge & Restaurant
    1,131
    Every night, people pack the tiny town of Oia to watch Santorini’s legendary sunsets. Skip the crowded streets though and relax with dinner with a view at Le Moustache’s dreamy poolside restaurant. The menu offers twists on traditional Mediterranean fare. Some of my favourite dishes are the vibrant watermelon salad with fried halloumi cheese, octopus caramelized in vinsanto wine paired with fava beans, and the lobster ravioli in a cream and bisque sauce.
  • Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Santorini
    839
    Sure, Santorini’s dramatic during the day—but you’ve really got to see it at night. And it’s hard to top the views at this hotel/restaurant in Oia, literally carved into the side of the cliff, where the villages across the caldera glow like candles under a million stars. The romantic open-air restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients, including from their organic garden, for dishes like kakavia, a hearty local rockfish soup with mussels and prawns.
  • Estate Argyros
    342
    At the stylish Estate Argyros winery, you can take a tour of the fields to see how they grow their vines into a basket shape, a “kouloura,” to protect the grapes. Then settle in for wine pairings, including assyrtiko, a mineral-rich white, with some local bites. Think: fresh olive oil with crusty bread, fava beans and feta, and plates piled high with local Greek meats and cheeses like kasseri and graviera.
  • Caldera Yachting Santorini
    1,978
    To truly experience Santorini’s beauty, you need to get out on the water. My top choice: Sailing in a traditional wooden Kaiki boat to remote Red Beach and snorkelling in the calm waters. And then? A lovely lunch back on board. It doesn’t get much better than this: the sun warming your shoulders after a swim; digging into Greek staples like stuffed grape leaves, tzatziki, and fresh pita; and toasting with frosty bottles of Mythos.
  • Petra Kouzina
    540
    More than just a simple cooking class, during this four-hour immersive experience young husband-and-wife team George and Paula welcome you as family. You’ll get your hands dirty making five courses including everything from tomato fritters to Greek salad heaped with feta, plus decadent moussaka and a garlic-kissed saganaki shrimp I still dream about. And perhaps the best part? There’s a bottomless wine policy, so your glass will never be empty.
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Santorini Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Santorini

Mike N

Go in late May or late Sept and enjoy it without the huge crowds and manageable pricing.

brotherleelove

Tipping is not widely practiced in Greece the same way it is in the States. For meals you can just leave a couple of euros — a percentage isn't the rule.

Chris_Fulton

Cards are accepted almost everywhere. The only places we found that didn't accept cards were the buses and some smaller shops (bakeries, etc). Also be aware that ATMs will charge a fee for withdrawing cash (anywhere from 2€-4€ per withdrawal).

brotherleelove

Truly one of the wonders of the world.

tuliplvr22

Breath-taking! Words can't describe the beauty of the island.

Mike N

The first time you look out onto the caldera from Imerovigli and take it all in will never get old. Once in a lifetime isn't enough… It’s amazing!

What is the best way to get there?

flying

Santorini (Thira) International Airport receives seasonal direct flights in high tourist seasons from various European destinations. Long-haul flights typically connect in Athens. Shuttles and taxis run from the airport to the island’s towns and resorts.

ferries

Regular ferries leave from Piraeus ferry port near Athens and arrive at Athinios ferry port near Fira. Santorini also has ferry links with Mykonos and other Greek islands.

Do I need a visa?

Greece is part of the Schengen Area with many other European countries. This means tourists from certain countries don’t require a visa for trips less than 90 days -- as long as your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned departure date.

Find more information about the Schengen Visa and what countries are exempt here.

When is the best time to visit?

Summer (June to August): Summer is Santorini’s high season and brings with it a number of music and cultural festivals. Average highs at this time are in the low 80°F (high 20°Cs) — ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and cruising the neighboring islands.

But to avoid the crowds and benefit from slightly lower prices on tours and accommodation, visiting in May or September/October is a smart choice and temperatures often still reach 77°F (25°C).

Get around

car

Hiring a car is the most convenient way to get around and rentals are available at the airport and major hotels.

bus

KTEL operates buses between the main towns of Fira, Oia, Perissa, and Kamari, but getting to smaller towns and beaches is not possible by public transport.

For more information about timetables and fares, see here.

taxis

Taxis are available in Fira and will take you to most places on the island. Rideshare services such as Uber are not available.

On the ground

What is the timezone?

Eastern European Standard Time.

What are the voltage/plug types?

The standard voltage in Santorini is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz. The plug has two round pins.

What is the currency?

The Euro.

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Yes.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Yes, except in smaller shops and cafés. It’s still advisable to carry some cash.

How much do I tip?

Tipping is not obligatory on Santorini, however, a 10-15% tip for exceptional service is always appreciated.

Are there local customs I should know?

Drinking

The federal legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 18 years old.

Water

Tap water in Santorini can be used to wash and brush your teeth, but is not recommended for drinking — stick to bottled water instead.

Public transport

Allow others to disembark before boarding, don’t take up more than one seat, and stand to offer seating to pregnant women or someone with a disability.

Try to speak the language

Learn a few basic phrases as a sign of respect. Locals will often switch to English for your ease and comfort but they appreciate the effort.

Santorini travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travellers ask in the forums.

Location Preferences

According to forum posts, Fira is recommended for its proximity to bustling nightlife and transport options, making it ideal for those seeking a lively atmosphere. For a quieter experience, Firostefani offers peace while still being close to Fira, and Pyrgos provides a central location with authentic local tavernas and less tourist traffic.

Beach Proximity

Some travelers suggest staying in beach areas like Kamari or Perissa for a more relaxed vibe and better value accommodations. These areas are noted for their good bus connections to the rest of the island and a variety of dining and nightlife options suitable for younger travelers or those looking for a less expensive stay.

View Considerations

For iconic Santorini views, travelers have called out Oia and Imerovigli as top choices. These locations are famous for their stunning caldera vistas and are ideal for romantic getaways or those seeking the quintessential Santorini experience, though they can be more expensive.

Accommodation Tips

Travelers have recommended specific accommodations such as Remvi Suites in Firostefani for good views and Tzekos Villas in Fira for a combination of luxury and location. For those prioritizing budget, options in Kamari and Perissa were highlighted for good value.

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Akrotiri Archaeological Site

According to forum posts, the archaeological site at Akrotiri is a significant highlight when visiting Santorini. It offers a rich historical experience with well-preserved ruins, providing insights into the advanced Minoan civilization. Some travelers recommend hiring a guide to gain a deeper understanding of the site's history and significance.

Akrotiri Village

For many users, Akrotiri village itself is a charming place with fewer tourists compared to more crowded areas like Oia and Fira. It provides a more authentic and quiet atmosphere, which is appreciated by visitors looking to escape the usual tourist paths.

Surrounding Attractions

Travelers have called out additional attractions near Akrotiri, such as visiting local beaches and enjoying nearby traditional taverns. The combination of historical exploration at the archaeological site and relaxing village life makes Akrotiri a well-rounded destination on the island of Santorini.

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Popular Choices

According to forum posts, popular restaurants in Santorini with sunset views include Kastro, Pelekanos, Strogili, and Fanari Villas Restaurant in Oia. These spots are frequently recommended for their breathtaking views and delicious cuisine.

Additional Recommendations

Some travelers also suggested Argo and Zafora in Fira for sunset dining. In Imerovigli, Le Moustache and the Athenian House are noted for their sunset views, providing a variety of dining options across different towns on the island.

User Experiences

Travelers have shared positive experiences at these restaurants, noting the combination of good food and exceptional sunset views. Restaurants like Oia Gefsis and V Lounge in Fira were particularly mentioned for their excellent service and atmosphere even during less ideal weather conditions.

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Public Transport

According to forum posts, Santorini offers a bus service that is described as cheap, frequent, and reliable, connecting major villages like Oia, Imerovigli, Kamari, Perissa, and Akrotiri from the main hub in Fira. The bus service operates on a schedule accessible online, though frequency and availability might vary seasonally.

Car Rentals

Some travelers suggested renting a car as the most efficient way to navigate the island, especially for those looking to explore at their own pace. Rental cars are available at the airport and can be returned at the ferry port. This option allows for flexibility in travel plans and is particularly useful for visiting multiple sites across Santorini.

Taxis and Private Transfers

Taxis are available but can be scarce and more expensive. Only about 40 official taxis serve the island, and they typically need to be ordered through a central office in Fira or arranged by hotels or restaurants. Private transfer services are also mentioned, offering another option for direct travel, especially for airport pick-up, although prices may vary.

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Wedding Planning and Coordination

According to forum posts, many travelers recommend hiring a wedding planner for a Santorini wedding due to the complexity of organizing an event remotely and the legal intricacies of marrying in Greece. Wedding planners can handle documentation, venue bookings, and day-of coordination, which can significantly reduce stress for couples.

Venue and Service Selection

Travelers have called out the challenges of finding venues that provide comprehensive services, including catering. Luxury villas offer privacy and exclusivity but might require handling every detail independently. Alternatively, some couples opt for packages through local planners that can include various services tailored to their needs, such as photography, makeup, and even officiants for the ceremony.

Legal and Documentary Requirements

Some travelers said that marrying in Santorini requires specific documentation, including birth certificates, passports, and a Certificate of Non-Impediment to Marriage, all of which need verification and translation into Greek. Engaging with the Greek Consulate or employing a local solicitor to ensure all paperwork is in order is crucial for a legally binding marriage.

Weather Considerations

For many users planning a wedding, knowing the seasonal weather is essential. Posts indicate that while the weather in Santorini is generally warm and inviting from May through September, it can be windy at times, which might affect outdoor ceremonies and events.

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Preparation and Timing

According to forum posts, it's advisable to start the hike from Fira to Oia early in the morning to avoid the heat and direct sunlight, as the trail offers little shade. Travelers have highlighted that sturdy shoes are essential because the path can be rough and slippery, especially on steep inclines.

Trail Details

Some travelers shared that the hike can take around 3 hours and is scenic, featuring views of the caldera and charming villages along the way. The path is well-trodden but can be challenging due to its length and the lack of facilities like shade and water sources, so carrying water and sunscreen is recommended.

Accessibility and Options

For many users, the hike is doable in sections if completing it all at once seems daunting. Buses are available from Oia to Fira if needed, but they do not follow the hiking trail directly. It's important to plan for how to return to the starting point, as some users noted concerns about the reliability of buses, especially in off-peak seasons.

Viewpoints and Interest

Travelers have called out that the most picturesque part of the hike is between Fira and Imerovigli. Beyond Imerovigli, the trail offers similar views continuously, which might seem less varied to some hikers.

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Payment Methods for Transportation

According to forum posts, payment for taxis and buses in Santorini is generally in cash only. Several travelers have inquired about the acceptance of credit cards, but responses confirm that cash is necessary for these services.

Payment Methods in Establishments

Some travelers said that both cash and cards are accepted at bars and restaurants in Santorini. However, it is recommended to have cash on hand for smaller purchases such as bus fares, coffees, and snacks, as these might not always accept card payments.

General Advice on Payments

For many users, carrying both cash and cards is advisable to cover all bases while traveling in Santorini, given the varying acceptance of payment methods across different services and establishments.

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Early Timing

According to forum posts, to avoid cruise ship crowds in Santorini, it is advisable to visit popular areas such as Oia and Fira early in the morning before 9:00 AM. This strategy helps avoid the influx of cruise ship passengers who generally start arriving around mid-morning.

Alternative Sightseeing

Some travelers suggested visiting lesser-known villages and attractions during peak cruise ship arrival times. Places like Pyrgos and Megalochori see fewer tourists and can offer a more peaceful experience. Additionally, exploring the islands' southern region, such as the area around the Athoni port and the Faro lighthouse, can be less crowded.

Strategic Planning

Travelers have called out the importance of checking the cruise ship schedule before planning activities in Santorini. On days with heavy cruise traffic, it might be best to schedule indoor activities or visits to remote parts of the island that are not typical stops for cruise excursions.

Evening Activities

For many users, engaging in evening activities when cruise passengers have typically returned to their ships can also provide a more crowd-free experience. Dining in restaurants with sunset views or enjoying late evening walks can be more enjoyable without the daytime crowds.

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Tripadvisor is not responsible for these answers or any opinions in them. Please read full forum posts for more details and information.