THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE, SANTORINI
Santorini stands as a small yet breathtakingly beautiful island in Greece, located in the southern part of the Aegean Sea. Renowned for its iconic white-washed cliffside villages, contrasting black sand beaches, and mesmerising panoramic views, the island offers an enchanting escape. Santorini also boasts a unique geological feature, as it is home to a dormant volcano that played a significant role in shaping the island’s landscape. With its tasty local cuisine, steeped historical heritage, and postcard-worthy sunsets, Santorini is the ideal place for those seeking an unforgettable vacation.
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PRIME TIME TO VISIT & TRANSPORTATION
From my personal experience, I highly recommend planning your trip during the spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) seasons. Not only is the weather pleasantly mild during these months, but you’ll also avoid the crowds and high prices that come with peak summer tourism.
The best way to get to Santorini town from the port is by taking a taxi or a bus. Taxis are readily available at the port and provide a convenient and comfortable way to reach your destination. In around 20 minutes, at a cost of approximately 20-25 euros (depending on the time of day and the number of passengers), you’ll arrive. On the other hand, you can opt for the more budget-friendly option of taking a bus from the port to Santorini town. This bus ride takes about 30 minutes and costs only a few euros. Given that buses run regularly throughout the day, you won’t have to wait long for your ride.
I highly recommend exploring the island of Santorini by renting an ATV/Quad or motorbike, which provides a lot of flexibility. Also, when I visited, the rental prices for a motorbike ranged from 18 to 30 euros per day, while an ATV/quad could cost anywhere from 30 to 45 euros per day depending on the season. If you plan to rent for a longer period, the price can be negotiable. But, if you prefer to save some money, the public bus system is a great option for getting around the island. With multiple routes operating throughout the day, it’s easy to get from one place to another, and most trips cost around 2 euros.
Fira
EXPLORING THE AREAS
Fira: Lively Capital with Scenic Pathways
Transitioning to Fira, the island’s capital, you’ll find bustling city vibes and easy accessibility through a scenic walking path connecting Imerovigli, Firostefani, and Fira in under 40 minutes. Fira offers a more budget-friendly experience than Oia, with its own share of white-washed buildings, cobblestone streets, and caldera views, alongside an array of eateries and shops.
Imerovigli: Tranquil Oasis with Stunning Vistas
Moving on to Imerovigli, situated between Fira and Oia, you’ll discover picturesque caldera and Aegean Sea vistas, along with luxury accommodations and dining options. A quieter alternative to the busier towns of Fira and Oia, Imerovigli provides a serene atmosphere to unwind and appreciate the island’s beauty.
Megalochori: A Glimpse into Greek Tradition
Lastly, for an authentic taste of Greek life, Megalochori, a historically rich village and the island’s first wine-producing area, is a charming destination that offers a unique glimpse into traditional culture. With its rich history and wine heritage, Megalochori provides a distinct perspective on Santorini’s past and present.
Oia: Captivating Charms and Enchanting Views
Oia, located on the northern tip of the island, is renowned for its romantic charm and breathtaking views, although it can be a pricier option. Perched on the cliffside, this town boasts iconic blue-domed churches, white-washed houses, and the mesmerising sunsets it’s famous for.
OIA
OIA
WHERE TO STAY IN SANTORINI
For first-time visitors to Santorini, I suggest considering accommodations in Oia, Imerovigli, or Fira. Oia is a stunning destination, however it’s the most expensive area on the island. Imerovigli and Fira offer great options as well, with plenty of restaurants and shops, and easy access to Oia. Moreover, staying in these areas can provide central access to exploring the rest of the island.
AMITY SUITES, FIRA
During our stay, we opted for Amity Suites, a boutique hotel located in the village of Fira. Our experience was perfect, and we were captivated by the stunning views and sunsets overlooking the caldera! The hotel offers large terraces with multiple viewpoints, room balconies, and a spacious pool overlooking the seascape.
ANDRONIS ARCADIA, OIA
Andronis Arcadia is a luxurious hotel located in the beautiful village of Oia. It features stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the Caldera, along with a range of amenities, including a spa, outdoor pool, and multiple dining options. If you feel like splurging, this is the place!
ENIGMA SUITES, OIA
Enigma Suites Oia is a stylish boutique hotel perched on the cliffside of Oia. The hotel offers spacious and comfortable suites, each uniquely designed, a balcony or terrace, and a fully equipped kitchenette.
AVAL All SUITE HOTEL
Located in Mesariá, this luxurious hotel offers beautifully designed suites with private balconies or terraces, a refreshing outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, and a spa. Additionally, AVAL All Suite Hotel provides easy access to popular attractions on the island, such as the ancient city of Akrotiri, the beautiful beaches of Perissa and Kamari, and the charming village of Pyrgos.
ISTORIA HOTEL
If you’re looking for a beach hotel in Santorini, this beautiful, ultra-chic boutique hotel is the perfect choice. Istoria Hotel is located in the village of Perivolos, on the southern coast of Santorini, and just steps away from the sea. It features 12 stylish suites, each with its own unique design and decor.
AMITY SUITES
WHERE TO EAT IN SANTORINI
ROSEMARY
Rosemary is located at the top of the Pyrgos castle. The view from the restaurant is stunning, with a panoramic sight of the entire island. It’s also a great spot to watch the sunset. The menu features delicious Greek food. Don’t forget to make a reservation to secure a view while you dine!
METAXI MAS
This hidden, authentic treasure is a must whilst in Santorini, located in the village of Exo Gonia. The restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere with traditional decor, creating a rustic and authentic ambiance. Metaxi Mas serves mouth-watering Greek cuisine, with a focus on grilled meats and fresh seafood.
KARMA
This spot is perfect for a delightful lunch. Housed in a charming traditional house, the restaurant features a cute courtyard that adds to the ambiance. They follow traditional recipes, guaranteeing an authentic and delicious culinary experience. Make sure to try their homemade breakfast, which is equally delicious.
OMBRA RESTAURANT
In my opinion, Ombra at Esperas Santorini is one of the best places to have a romantic sunset date on the island. The restaurant’s small and intimate setting creates a special atmosphere that is perfect for a memorable evening. Their prawns are some of the best!
SUNSET TARVENA
At Sunset Taverna, you absolutely have to try their famous lobster pasta. It’s a decadent dish that will leave you craving for more. Not only that, but they also serve a wide variety of locally-caught seafood! And the best part? You get to enjoy all of this while sitting right by the beautiful waterfront of Ammoudi Bay.
SANTORINi'S SPECTACULAR MUST-DO'S
1- EXPLORE OIA AND ADMIRE THE SUNSET
Gather at the ruins of the Venetian Castle of Agios Nikolaos for breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding landscape. if you want a good spot, you’ll need to arrive at least a couple of hours before (perhaps even earlier during peak season).
If you prefer a less crowded area, heading to the Akrotiri lighthouse would be a good choice. You can still enjoy the beauty of the surroundings while avoiding the crowds that may gather at more popular spots!
2- wander through fira
Fira (also known as Thira) is the vibrant capital of Santorini. It boasts numerous restaurants and a lively shopping district. However, the real allure of Fira lies in its narrow winding streets that lead to beautiful viewpoints and churches. The Three Bells of Fira is a must-see!
fira
fIRA
3- WALK THE CADERA PATH
Exploring the caldera path from Fira to Oia is one of Santorini’s most scenic walks. You’ll enjoy beautiful views of the Aegean Sea and the island’s stunning cliffs along the way. The path is around 10 kilometres long and usually takes about 3 to 4 hours to complete if you take your time, stop for photos, and soak in the beauty. Keep in mind that it can get crowded during peak season, so I recommend starting your walk early in the day to have a more peaceful experience.
4- TASTE THE LOCAL WINES
Santorini is known for its exceptional wines, especially the unique white wines made from Assyrtiko grapes. You can tour local wineries, learn about winemaking, and enjoy tastings. Two great options to visit are Gaia Wines and Domaine Sigalas!
Domaine Sigalas
5-DISCOVER SANTORINI’S CHARMING VILLAGES
PYRGOS
This picturesque village is a hidden gem in Santorini, with its narrow alleys, blue-domed churches, and stunning panoramic views.
MEGALOCHORI
Megalochori is one of Santorini’s most charming and traditional towns, with a labyrinth of white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches, picturesque main squares lined with tavernas, and tranquil hidden laneways.
FIROSTEFANI
Firostefani is a picturesque village situated on the Caldera cliff, located just a short walk from Fira. The village offers magnificent views of the Aegean Sea and the stunning volcanic landscape of the island. Firostefani is also home to the Blue Domed Church, which is a popular spot for photography and one of the most recognisable landmarks on the island.
IMEROVIGLI
Imerovigli is a tranquil and picturesque village situated at the highest point on the cliffside of Santorini Island. Although it is far less visited than Oia, it is just as impressive with its white chalked houses, churches, and blue domes. The village offers endless views of the shimmering sea and looks directly onto the imposing rock of Skaros and the volcano. In addition, there are many delicious restaurants where you can enjoy an unforgettable sunset view.
Firostefani
Firostefani is an extension of Santorini's capital, Fira. Its name, "Firostefani," means "crown" in Greek because it sits on the highest point of Fira.
Firostefani
You can admire another perspective of the volcano. Enjoy the magnificent sight of Fira itself and the breathtaking sunset in the evening!
Megalochori
Charming Megalochori village is a labyrinth of winding alleys, whitewashed houses, and blue-domed churches with ornate bell towers
MEGALOCHORI
famous for its vineyards & wineries, there are two remote beaches on the Caldera side, both named after churches in the area, Plaka and Thermi beach.
6- Uncover the stunning beaches
RED BEACH
This unique beach is famous for its red and black volcanic sand, as well as its impressive cliff formations. You have a few options getting there:
By Bus: Take a bus from Fira to Akrotiri. From Akrotiri, you can either walk or take a short taxi ride to Red Beach. The bus journey takes around 20-30 minutes, and the walk from Akrotiri to Red Beach is approximately 15-20 minutes.
By Car or Taxi: You can hire a car or take a taxi from Fira to Red Beach. The drive takes around 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Taxis are readily available in Fira, and car rental services can be found throughout the island.
By Boat: Another option is to take a boat tour from Fira to Red Beach. Many tour operators offer boat trips that include stops at various beaches, including Red Beach. This can be a scenic and enjoyable way to reach it!
PERISSA BEACH
Perissa Beach is famous for its unique black volcanic sand, clear waters, and stunning mountain views. You’ll find plenty of sun loungers, umbrellas, and beach bars for a relaxing day in the sun and a swim!
One of my favourite things about Perissa Beach is the ancient town of Thera nearby. You can explore the ruins of this old city, which was destroyed by a volcanic eruption.
VLYCHADA BEACH
Vlychada Beach is situated on Santorini’s southern coast and is renowned for its distinctive landscape featuring cliffs and rock formations reminiscent of a lunar terrain. This beach offers a more tranquil and less crowded experience compared to others on the island.
7- visit AMOUDI BAY, SANTORINI’S HIDDEN GEM
Amoudi Bay is a picturesque and quant fishing village on the northwest coast of the island, nestled below Oia. It is renowned for its serene turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant fishing boats.
The bay is encircled by rugged cliffs and can only be reached by foot (via 300+ steps) or by boat, making it a secluded and tranquil destination. Along the bay, you’ll find rustic fish taverns where you can savour fresh seafood and local specialties.
After reaching the last taverna, you can also continue along a dirt track for approximately 10 minutes to discover a small bay, perfect for swimming and cliff jumping.
amoudi bay
Amoudi bay
8-HIKE SKAROS ROCK
Skaros Rock is a rocky outcrop that rises above the village of Imerovigli, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding caldera and the Aegean Sea.
To reach Skaros Rock, you’ll need to follow a hiking trail that begins in Imerovigli. The trail is steep and can pose a challenge, so it’s essential to wear comfortable shoes! The hike typically takes around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace.
Once you reach the summit of Skaros Rock, you’ll be rewarded with incredible vistas of the caldera and the neighbouring villages.
9- TAKE A BOAT TO SANTORINI’s VOLCANO & HOT SPRING
Take a boat trip to the island’s active volcano, and hot springs! You’ll get to explore the volcanic crater and enjoy a dip in the warm mineral- rich waters in Nea Kameni.
These guided tours typically depart from the Old Port in Fira, offering both morning and afternoon departures.
Keep in mind that availability may vary depending on the time of year. So it’s best to check with local tour operators or your hotel for the most up-to-date information.