The Ultimate Santorini Travel Guide: Where to Stay, Eat & Explore
“Never go too long without watching a sunset.”
Thinking about booking a trip to Santorini? You’re not alone. With its whitewashed villages, deep blue domes, and those famous sunset views, it’s one of the most iconic destinations in the world. But behind the postcard-perfect images, there’s a lot more to discover.
Santorini has a real story to tell — one shaped by a massive volcanic eruption that changed the landscape forever. Some even believe it’s the origin of the Atlantis myth. Today, that dramatic past lives on in the island’s unique cliffs, black sand beaches, and ancient ruins.
The island is not exactly a hidden gem, especially during high season, when cruise ships bring in thousands of visitors a day. Oia fills up fast, and sunset spots get crowded hours before the sun dips into the sea. But even with all the crowds, Santorini still manages to feel magical.
Want to get the most out of your trip? This guide might help. From where to stay and what to do, to how to avoid the crowds and find the island’s more peaceful side - I’ve got you covered.
OK, ready? Here’s all you need to know about Santorini before you book your trip:
When Is The Best Time To Visit Santorini?
Santorini is stunning pretty much year-round, but when you go can make a big difference in how you experience it.
If you want sunny weather without the crowds, May and September are usually the best bets. In May, the island is waking up after winter — flowers bloom, everything feels fresh, and the pace is calm before the summer rush hits. In September, the weather is still warm, the sea is perfect for swimming, the sunsets are just as nice, but without the chaos of peak summer.
If you’re looking for even more peace, October can surprise you with its quiet charm and still-pleasant temperatures, though some beach clubs and restaurants begin to close for the season.
July and August are peak season. These months are when cruise ships dock daily, flooding the narrow streets — especially in Oia — with tourists. Prices skyrocket, reservations fill up fast, and it can feel like the entire island is waiting for the sunset show.
We actually visited during the third week of August and stayed in Oia, thinking the high season might be starting to wind down. Let me tell you — it definitely wasn’t. During the day, navigating the crowds in Oia was nearly impossible. The narrow streets were packed with tourists, and I’ve never seen such a small airport so crowded either.
We were lucky that our hotel gave us some privacy and quiet, but walking through Oia itself was unlike anything I’d ever experienced. Popular spots filled up hours before sunset, and it felt like the whole town was waiting for the show to begin. Viewing points had actual lines, like in the first picture in this post, where about 60 people were waiting to get the same shot. And yes, I waited in line too, so I’m 100% part of the problem, but if you’re looking for a relaxing vacation, this might really not be the time.
Where Are The Best Places To Stay In Santorini?
Santorini might be small, but its towns each offer something different depending on what kind of trip you want.
Fira is the island’s lively capital. It’s packed with shops, restaurants, and nightlife, making it a good choice if you want to be close to the action.
For a quieter stay with equally stunning views, Imerovigli sits on the cliffs just above Fira. It has a more relaxed atmosphere and plenty of luxury hotels.
If you’re after beaches, Perissa and Kamari on the east coast have black sand shores and a laid-back, more affordable vibe. These towns are great if you want easy beach access without the busy cliffside crowds.
Then there’s Oia—probably the most famous spot on the island, known for its iconic sunsets and blue-domed churches. It’s very popular and can get crowded, but it’s also where you’ll find some of the most stunning views.
I stayed in Oia at Charisma Suites, which I’d definitely recommend. It’s a small hotel with just a handful of rooms, so it feels peaceful and private. My room was set inside a cave, giving it a unique atmosphere, and it had a private jacuzzi where I could watch the sunset in peace.
Of course, there are plenty of other places to stay all over the island, from luxury resorts to charming guesthouses—so it really depends on what you’re after and your budget.
Charisma Suits Santorini
Stay in cave suites with breathtaking caldera views.
How Can I Get Around The Island Efficiently?
One of the first things to know about Santorini is that public transport is limited. There are buses connecting the main towns, but they can get crowded in high season and don’t always run late into the evening.
If you want flexibility, renting a car or scooter is the easiest way to get around. This gives you the freedom to explore smaller villages, hidden beaches, and viewpoints that buses don’t reach. Just keep in mind that parking in Oia and Fira can be tricky during peak hours.
Taxis are available but limited, and they tend to be expensive compared to other Greek islands. If you need one, arrange it through your hotel to avoid long waits.
If you’re staying in caldera towns like Oia, Fira, or Imerovigli, be prepared for a lot of walking, often uphill or down steep steps. The streets are beautiful but can be quite a workout, especially in the midday heat. Comfortable shoes are essential, and some hotels require a fair bit of climbing to reach.
You’ll also see donkeys on the island, especially in areas with steep paths. Please don’t ride them — they aren’t built to carry the weight of humans, and it can cause serious strain on their backs. Just walk. It’s better for everyone, and honestly, the views make every step worth it.
What Are The Must-See Attractions And Activities In Santorini?
Santorini might be small, but it packs in plenty to see and do. Whether you’re going for the views, the history, or just the sunsets, there’s something for everyone:
1. Watch the famous Oia sunset (once… maybe twice)
Oia is the place everyone flocks to for the sunset, and for good reason. The whole sky turns pink, orange, and gold as the sun dips into the sea. But it also gets very busy, especially in high season, so be prepared to claim your spot hours in advance. Or, better yet, enjoy it from your hotel balcony with a glass of wine and skip the crowds entirely.
2. Explore Fira and the cliffside path to Oia
Fira is the island’s capital and has a lively mix of shops, restaurants, and nightlife. From here, you can walk the famous cliffside path all the way to Oia (around 10 km), with breathtaking caldera views the whole way. It’s not a quick stroll, but it’s one of the most beautiful walks you’ll ever do.
3. Visit the volcanic beaches
Santorini’s beaches aren’t your typical white sand paradise—they’re dramatic, volcanic, and completely unique. Red Beach has striking crimson cliffs, while Perissa and Kamari offer long stretches of black sand. Pack beach shoes—the pebbles get hot under the sun.
4. Take a boat trip to the volcano and hot springs
Hop on a day cruise that takes you around the caldera, stopping at the volcano for a hike and the nearby hot springs for a swim. The views from the water give you a completely different perspective of the island’s cliffs.
5. Step back in time at Akrotiri
This ancient Minoan city was buried under volcanic ash around 1600 BC and is often called the “Pompeii of the Aegean.” The ruins are incredibly well preserved and offer a fascinating look at life before the eruption that shaped the island.
6. Go wine tasting
Santorini’s volcanic soil produces some fantastic wines, especially Assyrtiko. You can visit local wineries for tastings—many have gorgeous views over the vineyards and sea.
What are the best places to eat and drink in Santorini?
Santorini’s food scene is just as memorable as its views—think fresh seafood, sun-ripened tomatoes, tangy feta, and crisp local wines. Whether you’re after a romantic dinner with a caldera backdrop or a quick bite between exploring, the island delivers.
1. Sunset dinners in Oia
If you want a postcard view with your meal, Oia is the place. Just remember, tables with a sunset view book up days in advance in high season—so plan ahead. Popular picks include Kastro Oia and Ambrosia for a splurge, or Lotza for something more relaxed but still with gorgeous views.
2. Seafood by the water in Amoudi Bay
Down the steps from Oia is Amoudi Bay, a small port where tavernas sit right by the water. Fresh fish is brought in daily, and it doesn’t get more romantic than watching the sun set while the waves splash just a few meters away. That said, Santorini is a very touristic destination, and Amoudi Bay is no exception—so I’d recommend checking reviews before you go and looking at menus online. As with most popular spots, you’re paying for the view and location.
3. Local bites in Fira
Fira has plenty of casual tavernas and bakeries perfect for a quick gyro, souvlaki, or spinach pie between sightseeing. It’s also great for nightlife if you want to go beyond sunset cocktails—try PK Cocktail Bar or Franco’s for a drink with a view.
4. Wineries with a view
For a more laid-back afternoon, head to Santo Wines or Venetsanos Winery for tastings. Pair a glass of Assyrtiko with local cheese and just… sit back and take it all in.
5. Sweet treats you can’t skip
Santorini’s bakeries are a treat. Look out for loukoumades (honey-soaked doughnuts), baklava, and creamy galaktoboureko. Perfect with a Greek coffee or an iced frappe.
What are the best things to pack for a trip to Santorni?
Packing for Santorini isn’t just about throwing a swimsuit and sunglasses in your bag—it’s about being prepared for blazing sun, endless photo ops, and a lot of uphill walking. Here’s what you’ll be glad you brought:
1. Comfortable walking shoes
Those Instagram-perfect cobblestone streets? They’re beautiful… and they’re ankle-twisters if you’re in flimsy sandals. Go for something sturdy but stylish—you’ll be walking uphill, downhill, and everywhere in between.
2. Light, breathable clothing
It gets hot. Think breezy dresses, linen shirts, and loose trousers. Bonus points if they’re in light colours that pop in photos against all that white and blue.
3. A sun hat & sunglasses
The Greek sun is no joke, especially midday. A wide-brim hat and good UV-protection sunglasses are non-negotiable if you want to avoid frying like a tomato.
4. Reef-safe sunscreen
You’ll be swimming in some of the clearest water in the world—keep it that way with sunscreen that’s safe for the ocean and gentle on your skin.
5. A light jacket or wrap
Evenings can get breezy, especially if you’re watching the sunset from a cliffside bar. A light wrap or cardigan will keep you comfortable without weighing you down.
6. Swimsuits (plural)
Because one is never enough. You’ll want options for the beach, your hotel pool, and those spontaneous dips when you stumble across the perfect swimming spot.
7. A day bag or backpack
Something roomy enough for your camera, water bottle, sunscreen, and any shopping you pick up along the way.
8. Portable phone charger
Between snapping endless photos, navigating maps, and posting on the go, your phone battery will vanish faster than the sunset.
What are other things I should know before my trip?
Before you hop on a plane to Santorini, there are a few practical things worth knowing that can make your trip smoother. From how to pay for your coffee to what type of plug you’ll need, these small details can save you a lot of last-minute stress once you’re on the island.
Currency: Santorini uses the euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but some smaller cafés, beach bars, or local vendors may be cash-only, so carry a little cash just in case.
ATMs: You’ll find ATMs in most main towns, but fees can be high, especially if it’s not your bank. Withdraw a decent amount at once to avoid multiple charges.
Language: Greek is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. A friendly “Efcharistó” (thank you) goes a long way.
Water: Tap water isn’t generally recommended for drinking. Most hotels will provide bottled water, and you can buy it at local shops for cheap.
Tipping: Not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is appreciated.
Electricity: Standard European plug (Type C and F), 230V. Bring an adapter if you’re coming from outside Europe.
Dress code: Very casual during the day, but many restaurants in Oia and Fira lean dressy in the evenings.
Sundown rush: If you want a prime sunset spot, arrive at least an hour early, especially in high season.
How many days in Santorini: While some people stop in Santorini for just a day on a cruise, I’d recommend staying at least 3 nights if you can. This gives you enough time to explore Oia and Fira, spend a day at the beach, take a boat trip, and still have a little breathing room to enjoy those famous sunsets without rushing. Anything less can feel hectic, especially with the crowds.
I hope this was helpful. If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out here or on Instagram, and I’m more than happy to answer them.
Happy travels!
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