Santorini was born of fire.
From the ashes of its violent volcanic past, it has risen to become a symphony of stark cliffs and whitewashed buildings, all set against the deep blue canvas of the Aegean Sea.
As you walk its cobbled pathways, the sun reflecting off the cerulean domes, you’ll feel the ancient heartbeat of a land shaped by deities and legends.
Santorini isn’t just an island; it’s a dreamscape, where the sunsets paint the sky with hues of passion and the waves whisper tales of timeless romance.
Let this travel guide lead you through Santorini’s mesmerizing alleys, hidden gems, and breathtaking vistas.
Step foot into a paradise, reborn from the flames.
History of Santorini
- The Minoan Eruption: The island’s history is deeply entwined with one of the most catastrophic volcanic eruptions in recorded history. Around 1600 BC, the once circular island, then known as Strongyle, experienced an explosion that led to the formation of the present-day caldera and buried the Minoan city of Akrotiri under thick layers of ash. This eruption is often speculated to be the source of the Atlantis legend.
- Ancient Thira: After the eruption, during the 9th century BC, the island was settled by Dorian colonists who established the city of Ancient Thira. Ruins from this era, including temples, theaters, and other public buildings, can still be visited today on the southeastern coast.
- The Byzantine Era and Beyond: Over the centuries, Santorini found itself under various rulers. From the Romans to the Byzantines and later the Venetians, each left their mark. It was during Venetian rule in the 13th century that the island got its present name, derived from Santa Irini, a chapel dedicated to Saint Irene.
How to Get to Santorini
By Air:
- Santorini International Airport (JTR): The quickest way to Santorini is by flight. Santorini’s airport is well-connected with Athens. With multiple daily flights operated by airlines such as Aegean Airlines and Ryanair, the aerial route is not only convenient but offers breathtaking views. You can find affordable flights on Kiwi.com.
- Travel Duration: Approximately 45 minutes.
- Travel Duration: Approximately 45 minutes.
By Sea:
- Ferries from Piraeus Port: One of the more scenic routes to Santorini. Regular ferries (Blue Star Ferries, Seajets, and Hellenic Seaways) depart from Piraeus, Athens’ primary port, transporting passengers to Santorini’s Athinios Port.
- Travel Duration: Depending on the ferry type and service, the journey can range from 5 to 13 hours.
Best Places to Visit in Santorini
1. Fira
Perched high on cliffs that were shaped by nature’s fury, Fira, the capital of Santorini, offers unparalleled panoramic views of the shimmering Aegean, the stark caldera, and the silhouette of the dormant volcano.
As you wander through its cobbled pathways, you’re greeted by the quintessential Grecian tableau: whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, sun-drenched terraces, and the occasional Evil Eye every now and then.
By day, Fira invites you to explore its historic depths at the Archaeological Museum of Thera, showcasing relics from the island’s storied past. But as dusk falls, the town transforms into a vibrant hub of nightlife, with music notes wafting from bars, and tantalizing aromas from tavernas serving Santorinian delicacies.
There are plenty more Things to Do in Fira, so if you’re planning on dropping by, feel free to check out my blog post!
2. Oia
Oh dear, Oia. When one dreams of Santorini, it’s often that one picture-perfect postcard image of Oia that materializes.
Seated regally at the island’s northern tip, Oia’s allure is nothing short of enchanting. Known for the world’s most mesmerizing sunsets, each evening Oia becomes a theater where the sun takes center stage, casting a golden-orange hue upon the caldera, slowly descending into the horizon.
Its narrow streets are flanked by charming houses, their vibrant bougainvillea cascades creating delightful color contrasts against the classic Cycladic white. Majestic blue-domed churches, historic mansions, and remnants of a Venetian castle watching over the town from its highest point further define Oia’s picturesque skyline. Not to mention the Oia Windmill!
Don’t miss the Maritime Museum to learn about Oia’s rich history, a nod to the time when it was one of the region’s significant maritime centers.
3. Emporio
Away from the more frequented paths of the island’s western coast, lies Emporio. The island’s largest village, and it’s an absolute delight to get lost in. Emporio is really special for me because this is where I spent my days Couchsurfing in Santorini.
Walking through the labyrinthine alleys of Emporio, you’ll immediately be embraced by the unique medieval charm it exudes. Its streets are dotted with fortified houses, known as “Kasteli,” built in such close proximity to one another that they form a protective barrier — a relic from the times when such fortifications protected the villagers from pirates. Would have been great to have the elite Greek Evzones stationed around here, right?
Venture deeper into the village, and you’ll stumble upon the stunning Goulas Castle. This Venetian tower, though now partly in ruins, stands as a sentinel to Emporio’s rich past.
You’ll more than likely pass by the Church of Saint Nicholas Marmaritis, with its gleaming marble facade, showcasing a blend of Byzantine and post-Byzantine architectural styles. A must-visit.
Emporio also provides an oasis of calm. Its traditional coffee houses, or “kafeneia,” are the perfect spots to unwind with a Greek coffee in hand, soaking in the local ambiance.
4. Ancient Thira
Resting on the rugged heights of Mesa Vouno Mountain, between the seaside villages of Kamari and Perissa, lies the hauntingly beautiful ruins of Ancient Thira.
This archaeological gem, dating back to the 9th century BC, serves as a silent witness to the many civilizations that once called Santorini home — from the Dorian settlers of ancient times to the Roman and Byzantine empires that followed.
As you tread the worn paths of Ancient Thira, history unveils itself with every step. The Hellenistic-era Agora, once a bustling marketplace, paints a picture of daily life. Flanking the Agora are remnants of public buildings, sanctuaries, and temples, including the Sanctuary of Artemidoros.
But perhaps most intriguing are the Ptolemaic terracotta figurines found here, pointing to Ancient Thira’s connections with distant lands and cultures.
5. Akrotiri Archaeological Site
Often dubbed as the “Pompeii of the Aegean,” this Bronze Age settlement was preserved in time by the very volcanic eruption that gave Santorini its dramatic caldera.
Walk into Akrotiri to find multi-storied buildings, advanced drainage systems, and intricately designed frescoes paint a vivid picture of a sophisticated civilization that thrived around 4000 years ago. Unlike Pompeii, there’s an eerie absence of human remains, leading many to believe that the inhabitants had advance warning of the eruption and evacuated.
The frescoes are arguably the crowning jewels of Akrotiri. The “Spring Fresco,” with its vibrant depiction of lilies against a blue background, is particularly mesmerizing.
The site, still under excavation, is covered by a bioclimatic roof, so you can explore comfortably regardless of the weather.
You can get your entry tickets to the site through here.
6. Imerovigli
High above the caldera lies Imerovigli, the “Balcony to the Aegean“. This picturesque village, situated between Fira and Oia, offers some of the most breathtaking views in Santorini!
The village’s elevated position not only provides panoramic vistas but also a cooler and quieter atmosphere.
A gem in Imerovigli is the Agios Anastasios Church. This iconic blue-domed church is one of the most photographed spots on the entire island.
Best Beaches in Santorini
7. Red Beach
One of Santorini’s most iconic and photographed beaches, Red Beach is an astonishing display of nature’s artistry. Towering red and black volcanic cliffs that rise dramatically behind the sandy shore, what a sight!
The beach gets its name from the unique reddish-brown sand and pebbles, remember Santorini’s volcanic origins? These warm, rusty tones create a unique ambiance, making the beach look as though it’s been painted with a brush dipped in fire.
Being a popular hotspot, Red Beach can get crowded, especially during the high season. There are sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent, and a few cafes and taverns nearby where ypu can grab a bite or a refreshing drink. I also remember the path leading down to the beach to be a bit rugged.
8. White Beach
White Beach can be found within towering white cliffs and it’s accessible mainly by boat. Named aptly for its unique white-hued pebbles and surrounding chalky cliffs, this beach is a geological marvel.
As you approach White Beach, the contrast of the azure waters against the luminescent white of the cliffs creates a surreal landscape, almost as if it’s been plucked from a dream.
The beach itself, though smaller in size compared to some other Santorini beaches, feels intimate and exclusive. Given its somewhat isolated location, White Beach isn’t lined with the usual array of beach bars and loungers. Instead, it offers a more raw, natural setting.
One thing to note: while the soft white pebbles are a sight to behold, they can get hot under the midday sun. So don’t forget to bring your flip-flops!
9. Perissa Beach
Stretching out over 7 km (4.3 mi), Perissa Beach beckons with its expansive canvas of black volcanic sand that sparkles under the Grecian sun. A distinct sight against the backdrop of Mesa Vouno Mountain.
Unlike many other beaches, Perissa’s sand remains cool to the touch, even on the sunniest of days, also due to its volcanic origin.
Well-equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas, Perissa Beach offers both comfort and convenience. Its length ensures that even in peak season, you can find a relatively quiet spot to relax.
The nearby promenade is also perfect for evening strolls, where the setting sun casts a golden hue on the beach
10. Black Beach
Another famous beach: the Black Beach of Santorini, often referred to as Kamari Beach, is a magnificent expanse of black volcanic sand, dotted by smooth pebbles. One could even say that this beach is a literal phoenix that rose from the ashes.
Stretching for about 5 km (3 mi), the black sands of Kamari glisten like a starry night under the radiant sun. It’s the perfect spot to sip on a chilled glass of Assyrtiko wine.
Black Beach has a lot to offer. From diving to explore the underwater volcanic formations to windsurfing amidst the gentle breezes, there’s an abundance of water sports to indulge in.
11. Vlychada Beach
Vlychada Beach stands out not just for its pristine waters but for its dramatically sculpted sandstone cliffs that hug the shoreline. These naturally formed, moon-like structures, carved out by centuries of erosion, earned it the moniker, “Moon Beach.”
Vlychada’s sands are a blend of golden and volcanic hues. The beach itself is quieter than many of the other beaches so it’s the perfect spot if you’re looking for a more intimate rendevouz with nature.
While the lunar landscape is undoubtedly the highlight, Vlychada offers other treasures. The Santorini Arts Factory and Tomato Industrial Museum, located nearby, provide intriguing insights into the island’s culture.
12. Ammoudi Bay
Ammoudi Bay is not a beach in the traditional sense, but rather a small port that has become an essential stop for those exploring Santorini’s coastal allure.
A descent to Ammoudi Bay, offers panoramic views that seem too perfect to be real. By the time you’ve reached the bottom, you’re met with a scene straight out of a postcard: quaint, red-roofed buildings, bobbing fishing boats, and the scent of fresh seafood grilling in the air.
You can even dive off the rocks into the clear waters as Ammoudi Bay is quite a well-known cliff-jumping spot.
Lining the bay are several tavernas known for their fresh seafood dishes. The octopus, grilled to perfection and drizzled with local olive oil, is a particular favorite among locals.
Best Tours in Santorini
Santorini offers some really amazing experiences, here are some unique activities that you can try out while on the island:
- Catamaran Cruise with Food and Open Bar – Experience Santorini in the most luxurious way. Sail through the island’s coastline and enjoy the most famous sunset diving inside the sea, as you enjoy traditional Greek food and special wine.
- Horse Riding Trip to Black Sand Beach – Learn to ride a horse and explore Santorini from a whole new perspective, admiring stunning views and the volcanic black sandy beach from the top of your horse with expert guidance.
- Sea Caves Kayak Trip with Snorkeling and Picnic – Paddle your kayak in the south part of Santorini, explore sea caves, swim, snorkel, and jump from cliffs. Later, enjoy a picnic at the beach with local organic products.
- The Greek Wedding Show – Enjoy a night of culture with a ticket to a Greek Wedding show near Fira. Smash plates, dance to traditional music with musicians, performers, and actors, and savor appetizers with a glass of wine.
- Cooking Class with a Chef at Ftelos Brewery – Cook a 4-course meal with a chef, based on the Cycladic and Mediterranean cuisine in Santorini. Wander in the brewery and then feast on the full meal with a craft beer while enjoying the scenery.
Hidden Gems in Santorini
13. Akrotiri Lighthouse
The Akrotiri Lighthouse stands overlooking the vast expanse of the sea. This beacon was constructed in 1892 by a French trading company and has since been a guiding light for mariners navigating the Cyclades archipelago.
Unlike the bustling streets of Fira or the photo-op points of Oia, the Akrotiri Lighthouse area remains refreshingly uncommercialized. The simplistic, yet elegant architecture of the lighthouse adds to its allure, with its whitewashed facade gleaming against the blue sky.
One of the highlights of visiting the Akrotiri Lighthouse is the opportunity to witness a Santorinian sunset from a vantage point that few tourists ever experience!
14. Kamari Open Air Cinema
Established in the late 1980s, the Kamari Open Air Cinema artfully blends the allure of old-world Grecian magic with the thrill of contemporary film. Seated amidst fragrant gardens, you’ll be treated to a range of films beneath a canopy of stars. The cinema is ensconced in a setting that spells pure enchantment, almost as if you’re at the ancient theatre of Delphi.
Complementing the visual experience is the cinema’s retro-themed bar. Offering a curated selection of drinks and local snacks, you can savor the tastes of Santorini while immersing yourself in the cinema.
15. The Heart of Santorini
In a land replete with postcard-worthy sights, there exists a spot that captures the very essence of romance – The Heart of Santorini. This naturally-formed heart shape, discernible from certain vantage points, has enamored many and remains one of the island’s best-kept secrets.
You can find it between the villages of Oia and Imerovigli.
While the island tells tales of volcanic eruptions and ancient civilizations, The Heart of Santorini whispers stories of love. Legends have it that couples who witness a sunset here, with the heart shape in the foreground, are bound to have their love last a lifetime.
Whether myth or fate, the location’s magnetic pull is undeniable.
Top Things to Do in Santorini
16. Hike from Fira to Oia
If there’s one activity in Santorini that combines breathtaking vistas, physical challenge, and a journey through history, it’s the scenic hike from Fira to Oia. This trail, stretching approximately 10 km (6.2 mi), is an expedition through the island’s unmatched beauty.
Your adventure begins in Fira. As you head north, leaving behind the town’s lively cafes, the path meanders along the edge of the caldera, offering sweeping views of the sparkling blue waters below.
The trail then ushers you through the settlements of Firostefani and Imerovigli. Here, iconic blue-domed churches punctuate the skyline, and the panorama of the volcano and surrounding islands becomes even more pronounced.
Post Imerovigli, the terrain becomes more rugged. You’ll traverse stretches where the path is but a narrow strip etched into the cliffside, with the vastness of the sea on one side and the stark beauty of Santorini’s interior on the other. This section, though challenging, offers some of the hike’s most rewarding views.
As you approach Oia, the trail mellows out, guiding you through fields dotted with wildflowers and past old, crumbling windmills. Then, the first hints of Oia’s charm appear—narrow alleys, traditional cave houses, and chapels with weathered bell towers.
The hike culminates in the enchanting town of Oia, now find your spot and get ready to watch the sunset set the sky aflame.
17. Visit the Lost Atlantis Experience Interactive museum
Dive deep into one of history’s most tantalizing mysteries at the Lost Atlantis Experience Interactive Museum. This museum uniquely blends legend with technology, offering you an immersive journey into the enigmatic world of Atlantis, which many believe was inspired by the catastrophic volcanic eruption that shaped Santorini.
With state-of-the-art 9D virtual reality technology, holograms, and 3D installations, the museum brings the lost city of Atlantis to life in an unprecedented way.
The museum’s narrative is thoughtfully structured. It begins with an introduction to Plato‘s dialogues, where the story of Atlantis was first documented. Then you’ll explore the connections between the legend of Atlantis and the geological evolution of Santorini.
The museum does provide compelling evidence, drawing parallels between the two, making a strong case for Santorini being the inspiration behind the legend.
18. Drop by Skaros Rock
You can find Skaros Rock while doing the hike from Fira to Oia. In the 13th century, Skaros Rock was adorned with a Venetian fortress, protecting the island from the ever-looming threat of pirates.
Though today the ancient walls have crumbled and the fortress lies in ruins, the allure of Skaros Rock hasn’t diminished. From the village of Imerovigli, you’ll find your way punctuated by the charming Chapel of Panagia Theoskepasti.
19. Find the Blue Domed Churches
Perhaps no image of Santorini is more iconic and universally recognized than the striking blue domed churches. They have a certain charm compared to the dramatic cliff-perched Orthodox monasteries of Meteora.
The color blue, in Greek Orthodoxy, symbolizes the heavens and the divine, a spiritual connection between the land and the skies.
For the quintessential experience, head to the Agios Spyridonas Church and Anastasis Church in Oia. These two stand out not just for their distinctive domes but also for the panoramic views they offer of the caldera and the Aegean beyond. There’s also the St. Gerasimos Church in Fira.
Yet, the true joy of discovering these churches lies in stumbling upon them serendipitously, hidden away in quiet corners.
20. Climb the Nea Kameni Crater
Climbing the Nea Kameni Caldera is like a rite of passage for anyone visiting Santorini.
As Santorini’s legendary caldera, this young volcanic landmass, rising from the center of the caldera, was born from multiple volcanic eruptions over the past two millennia. So you’ll find that the Nea Kameni is a landscape of rugged lava formations and sulfuric vents.
Trek along well-marked paths that crisscross the island. The summit offers views of the crescent shape of Santorini and the nearby island of Thirasia.
You can join a highly-rated guided tour for the Nea Kameni Caldera through here.
21. Go on a Sunset Cruise
Embarking from the old port of Fira or the charming Ammoudi Bay, these sunset cruises will take you along the striking coastline, passing by the volcanic islands of Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni.
The silhouette of the caldera, with its towering cliffs and iconic white buildings, is nothing short of breathtaking.
As the boat gently sails, you’ll be treated to views of secluded beaches and hidden coves. Often, there’s a chance to anchor by the hot springs, where you can take a rejuvenating dip in the warm, sulfur-rich waters.
But the true highlight awaits as the sun begins its descent.
Many cruises offer an array of amenities, from lavish dinners with traditional Greek delicacies to the soft strumming of live music that complements the rhythm of the waves.
You can join an amazing sunset cruise that does everything above through here.
22. Try out Wine Tasting in Pyrgos
Let’ take a look at Pyrgos, the highest village in Santorini with an intoxicating secret—the island’s vinous heritage.
Santorini, with its volcanic soil and unique microclimate, produces wines that are as distinctive as the island itself. And Pyrgos, with its traditional wineries, offers the perfect setting for an immersive wine-tasting experience.
The history of winemaking in Santorini stretches back millennia, and the island’s wines, especially the crisp, white Assyrtiko and the sweet, sun-dried Vinsanto, have gained international acclaim.
In Pyrgos, you’ll find both boutique wineries and esteemed vineyards, each with stories of tradition and innovation. Pair the wines with local cheeses, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives, and let the flavors dance on your palate.
Enjoy a highly-rated wine tasting tour around Santorini by joining this tour.
Where to Stay in Santorini
A lot of times, people think that Santorini would break the bank but it can honestly be quite an affordable island to visit. It all depends on what you’re looking for, you can splurge for that classic resort or cliff-side pool or you can hunker down in the many friendly hostels around the area. Here are some of my recommendations:
Best Hotels in Santorini:
- Drops Cave Houses – offers air-conditioned units with pool views and complimentary Wifi. These apartments feature a balcony with mountain vistas, a satellite flat-screen TV, a seating area, a kitchenette equipped with a fridge and minibar, and an en-suite bathroom with a walk-in shower and bathrobes. Feel free to indulge in a continental breakfast and relax on the sun terrace. The property also provides both bicycle and car rental services.
- Luna Santorini Suites – nestled in a former winery in Pyrgos, boasts panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and Santorini island. The suites, traditionally adorned with hand-selected items, offer private patios, outdoor plunge pools, free WiFi, and a furnished terrace. Each suite provides a distinct bedroom and living area equipped with built-in beds and sofas, a kitchenette featuring a Nespresso machine, and a vibrantly designed bathroom stocked with plush bathrobes, slippers, and premium products.
- Cocoon Suites – provides a unique stay, featuring breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and the volcano. Each suite, enriched with natural materials like rocks and driftwood, boasts individualized decor, a hot tub or plunge pool, and a Simmons mattress bed for optimal sleep. The property elevates the experience with in-suite candlelit dinners using organic, local ingredients and a daily breakfast served either in-suite or on a balcony overlooking the Caldera.
Best Hostels in Santorini:
- Villa Agas – offers a serene family-friendly environment and ensures easy connectivity with a local bus stop right outside. The rooms come equipped with private bathrooms, TV, balconies, a fridge, and air conditioning. A vending machine is available at the entrance.
- Fira Backpackers Place – offers budget-friendly accommodation and designed with hotel-like amenities at affordable rates. Both private and dormitory-style rooms are available, with private rooms featuring their own bathrooms, refrigerators, and air-conditioning. Dorm rooms come equipped with shared baths, luggage lockers, air-conditioning, and fridges. There’s also complimentary Wi-Fi, a communal kitchen, a washing machine, daily cleaning, a living area with a big screen, and a hairdryer.
- Central Hostel Oia – introduces a fresh hospitality concept in Santorini, seamlessly merging classic Cycladic architecture with affordability. This guest house is enveloped by captivating architecture, charming churches, marble streets, and the stunning caldera views. Conveniently located on Oia’s central square beside the bus station, Central Hostel Oia welcomes both young and older guests, as well as friend groups, promising a friendly ambiance.
How to Get Around Santorini
There are several ways to get around Santorini:
- Rental Car: The most flexible way to explore Santorini is by renting a car. They’ll allow you to travel at your own pace, cover a lot more ground, and discover off-the-beaten-path locations.
- Local Buses: KTEL is Santorini’s public bus service, linking major towns and attractions. It’s an economical option, and the buses are relatively frequent during peak tourist season. Be prepared for crowded buses in the summer months.
- Taxis and Private Transfers: For a bit more comfort, taxis are available. They can be flagged down or pre-booked. There are also several companies offering private transfer services, ideal for airport or port pick-ups.
- Boat: Several boat services connect Santorini’s ports with its beaches and the caldera. Excursion boats, for instance, often head to Nea Kameni or the hot springs.
Best Time to Visit Santorini
Santorini is desirable throughout the year, but timing your visit can make all the difference. When planning your trip, consider both the climate and the tourist influx to ensure an optimal experience. It’s always a good idea to get travel insurance no matter which season you go to ensure that peace of mind.
- Peak Season (June to August):
- Weather: Hot and sunny, with temperatures often reaching up to 30°C (86°F).
- Crowds: This is when Santorini witnesses its highest influx of tourists. Iconic spots like Oia during sunset can get particularly crowded.
- Activities: Almost all tourist attractions, restaurants, and shops are open.
- Shoulder Season (April to early June, September to October):
- Weather: Mild and pleasant. Temperatures typically range from 20°C – 25°C (68°F – 77°F).
- Crowds: Tourist traffic is less intense compared to the peak months, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Activities: A great time for outdoor activities, like hiking from Fira to Oia or exploring the vineyards.
- Off-Peak Season (November to March):
- Weather: Cooler with some rainy days. Temperatures hover between 10°C – 15°C (50°F – 59°F).
- Crowds: Significantly fewer tourists, providing a more authentic and tranquil experience.
- Activities: Some establishments may be closed for the season, but the natural beauty of the island remains ever-present. It’s an ideal time for solitude and introspection. As the Seven Sages of Greece put it: “Know Thyself.”
Plan Your Trip to Santorini | Best Travel Resources
Book Your Accommodations
- Booking.com – the world’s leading online booking platform for accomodations around the world, they have an extensive amount of available listings with zero booking fees and best price guarantees.
- Hostelworld – a backpacker’s best friend, Hostelworld has the largest collection of hostels and guesthouses for affordable prices.
Don’t Forget Insurance
- SafetyWing – from Nomad Insurance, an insurance by nomads for nomads. They understand our lifestyle well and have really comprehensive and flexible plans that cater to any traveler.
Find Cheap Flights
- Kiwi.com – my go-to for booking and finding the cheapest flights and it’s helped me save tons of money. They do virtual interlining which is connecting flights from airlines that do not codeshare, so you can find routes that you wouldn’t be able to find normally.
Join Tours & Activities
- GetYourGuide – is one of the best places to find unique tours and activities. I found that it’s an excellent way to meet fellow travelers and create fond memories. They are not only limited to tours as they also offer niche services such as skip-the-line tickets or private transfers.
Catch a Ride
- Rentalcars.com – nothing beats the freedom of the road, Rentalcars.com is the world’s largest online car rental service. They operate across 160 countries so they’re the perfect partner to work with if you find yourself wanting a ride.
