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About this guide
With its iconic whitewashed stone buildings, blue-domed churches, and breathtaking sunsets over the Aegean Sea, Santorini is one of the most picturesque destinations in the world. This volcanic island in the Cyclades offers a magical mix of history, culture, and natural beauty—perfect for relaxing the soul and venturing into nature. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, sip exclusive Assyrtiko wines in cliffside vineyards, and soak in hot springs near volcanic landscapes. Perfect for a romantic getaway or a solo retreat, Santorini delivers on every traveler’s idea of a dream Greek vacation.
- Best time to travel: June to August (peak season), November to March (off-season), April to May and September to October (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Eastern European Time (EET)
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Language(s): Greek, English, French
- Noteworthy: Santorini Jazz Festival (May), Panigiri of Prophet Elias (July), Megaron Gyzi Festival (August), Ifestia Festival (September), International Music Festival of Santorini (September)
- Best for: Romantic Getaways, Indigenous Greek History, Mediterranean Food and Wine, Outdoor Adventures
Get Away: Getting To And Around Santorini, Greece
By Air
The most direct way to reach Santorini is flying through Santorini (Thira) National Airport, which serves domestic flights from Athens and seasonal international flights from major European cities. The airport is about 15 minutes from Fira, the island’s capital, with taxis and shuttle buses available to book. Be mindful to pre-book transportation or hotel shuttles during the high season to avoid long waits.
By Car
Renting a car or ATV is a popular and convenient way to explore Santorini’s beaches, villages, and viewpoints. Roads are narrow and winding, especially in smaller villages, so drive cautiously. Parking can be limited in Oia and Fira, so look for designated lots outside busy areas. There are also private drivers to book to get around the island at scheduled times.
By Public Transit
Visitors can get to Santorini by ferry through Piraeus Port as well. Once there, KTEL Santorini operates reliable and affordable bus routes that connect major destinations like Fira, Oia, Perissa, and Kamari. Buses run frequently during summer but may have reduced schedules in the winter. Fira is the central hub where most routes start and connect, making it easy to plan day trips.
Explore Santorini, Greece On Foot
Many areas, especially the villages of Oia, Fira, and Imerovigli, are best explored on foot. Narrow pedestrian paths lined with shops, cafes, and wineries offer views of the Aegean Sea at nearly every angle. Walking is the best way to get to photo-worthy spots and meet the island community’s many furry friends along the path. Wear comfortable shoes for some steep climbs and cobblestone paths.
Quick facts
Eastern European Time (EET)
Euro (€)
Greek, English, French
Good For
Romantic Getaways
Indigenous Greek History
Mediterranean Food and Wine
Outdoor Adventures
Keep in mind
- Santorini Jazz Festival (May)
- Panigiri of Prophet Elias (July)
- Megaron Gyzi Festival (August)
- Ifestia Festival (September)
- International Music Festival of Santorini (September)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Santorini, Greece
Dine at Tholoto Restaurant in Kontohori to eat flavorful Greek and Mediterranean dishes made with fresh local ingredients. The warm and romantic setting make this a favorite for locals and travelers so make reservations when possible.
Savor a world-class dining experience at Beefbar Santorini in Andronis Arcadia with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. With a summer-inspired menu featuring fresh, light bites like tuna ceviche and lobster tacos, it's a must-visit for foodie travelers.
Overlooking the Caldera in Imerovigli, Le Moustache Restaurant serves modern Greek and Mediterranean cuisine with views of Santorini’s iconic sunset. The elegant terrace restaurant offers a refined dining experience, perfect for a memorable lunch or romantic dinner.
Hungry Donkey in Oia is the perfect casual stop for quick, tasty bites like crepes, burgers, and more. Conveniently located near the bus terminal and Caldera path, it's a great spot to fuel up while exploring the village.
Nikos Place Grillhouse serves authentic Greek gyros, souvlaki, and hearty street food. Conveniently located near the bus stop in Fira, it’s a perfect budget-friendly spot for a quick, satisfying meal between adventures.
Confetti Dessert Boutique in Imerovigli serves handcrafted desserts, brunch, and coffee in a relaxing environment. This seasonal patisserie faces the traditional blue domes and famous Caldera for some sweet photo opportunities.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Santorini, Greece
Experience true Greek flavors firsthand with a hands-on Greek Cuisine Cooking Class led by a professional chef. Guests prepare traditional dishes like moussaka, tzatziki, Greek salad, and tomato fritters paired with local Santorini wine.
Take the exciting small group Santorini ATV Quad Experience Tour to go beyond the usual tourist spots with an expert local guide. Guests will ride through Perissa’s black sand beach, historic landmarks like the Venetian Castle, local wineries, and scenic Windmills of Emporio.
Discover the wild beauty of this Greek island while Horse Riding to Black Sandy Beach on a guided tour through Caldera and Eros Beach. Take the equestrian journey across volcanic landscapes and coastal trails for a peaceful trek along the Aegean Sea.
Sail along Santorini’s stunning coastline on the Classic Catamaran Cruise and swim in volcanic hot springs only reachable by boat. With a BBQ buffet, local wine, snorkeling, and round-trip transport, it’s a seamless way to experience the island by sea.
Capture magazine-worthy magic in Santorini with a Professional Flying Dress Photo Shoot set against iconic backdrops in Oia and Imerovigli. A professional photographer gives personalized guidance on posing so everyone feels like royalty atop the iconic white and blue landscape.
Step back in time on this fascinating Santorini History And Archeology Tour that explores the island’s most important ancient sites. Visitors learn about the mountaintop ruins of Ancient Thera, the sophisticated ancient city of Akrotiri, and the Museum of Prehistoric Thera.
Experience the dramatic coastline and enjoy a Greek picnic during the Serenity Kayaking And Snorkeling In Sea Caves tour. Paddle past iconic sights like Red Beach, White Beach, and the striking Black Mountain for a peaceful yet adventurous way to connect with nature.
Spa del Mar e Sol, Santorini’s premier wellness destination, offers luxurious massages, holistic therapies, and revitalizing treatments. Guests relax while taking in the view to admire the most gorgeous views of boats along the Aegean Sea.
