Santorini, one of the most iconic and romantic Greek islands, is famous for its stunning sunsets, charming streets lined with shops and cafes, dramatic landscapes, picturesque villages built on the hills and whitewashed buildings with blue-domed roofs. Located in the Aegean Sea, this tiny island is a remnant of a volcanic caldera and the site of one of the largest volcanic eruptions in history. Santorini is a must-visit destination if you are seeking beauty, relaxation, and culture.
THINGS TO DO
Oia
First things first, we obviously have to start with Oia, the most iconic place in Santorini. Oia is exactly what you picture when you think of Santorini—a tiny, incredibly beautiful and picturesque town where you don’t need a map to get around. With its characteristic churches, chapels, and bell towers, cozy tavernas offering delicious food, outstanding viewpoints, narrow streets covered in flowers, tiny local shops selling souvenirs, and beautiful windmills standing proudly in the heart of the town, it truly embodies the charm of the island.
One thing that disappointed us, however, was that many of these famous spots you see in pictures online are located in private areas, accessible only to residents or guests of the hotels in those areas. We saw many people ignoring the signs and jumping over gates to get the perfect shot, but that’s not something we were willing to do.
Byzantine Castle
Another must-do experience is watching the sunset from the Byzantine Castle in Oia. While I usually prefer finding a quieter spot, there’s a good reason why this location is so popular—it offers the best sunset views in Oia. However, keep in mind that it’s a small area that fills up quickly, so I recommend arriving a bit earlier to secure a good spot.
Ammoudi Bay
Amoudi Bay, located exactly 300 steps below the iconic village of Oia, is a picturesque and peaceful spot known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning views of the caldera. It’s a popular destination for swimming, with opportunities to dive off the rocks into the sea. The bay is also home to several excellent seafood tavernas offering fresh catches of the day, making it a perfect place for a relaxed meal by the water. The vibrant blue waters and dramatic red cliffs make Amoudi Bay a must-visit for anyone seeking a quieter, more intimate experience in Santorini.
Imerovigli
Imerovigli, often referred to as the “balcony of Santorini,” is a serene village located on the caldera’s edge, offering some of the island’s most breathtaking panoramic views. This quieter, more peaceful spot is perfect for a more relaxed atmosphere, away from the crowds of Oia. With its whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and stunning sunsets, Imerovigli provides an authentic and picturesque Santorini experience. It’s also home to luxurious hotels, charming cafes, and the beautiful Anastasi Orthodox Church, making it an ideal place to unwind, explore, and enjoy the beauty of the island.
Skaros Rock and Panagia Theoskepasti Church
Skaros Rock is an impressive natural formation in Imerovigli, offering stunning views of the caldera and the surrounding landscape. It’s a popular hiking spot, with a trail leading to the top where you can enjoy panoramic views of the island. Next to Skaros Rock, you’ll find a small church, the Church of Panagia Theoskepasti, adding a spiritual and historical touch to the breathtaking scenery. The hike to Skaros Rock is an unforgettable experience, blending natural beauty with cultural significance. The hike takes around 45 min one way and we recommend to do it either very early in the morning when it’s not so hot or even better, in the late afternoon to stay to watch the sunset. We also suggest you to wear proper shoes.
Fira
Fira, the vibrant capital of Santorini, is a bustling town perched on the caldera’s edge, offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea, the island’s iconic volcanic landscape and a view of the nearby volcanic island of Sea Kameni. Known for its lively atmosphere, Fira is filled with shops, restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions like the Museum of Prehistoric Thera and the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral with fresco paintings from a local artist . Its narrow, winding streets are perfect for exploring, and its nightlife makes it a popular destination for visitors.
Pyrgos
Pyrgos is a small, traditional town that offers a glimpse into the island’s rich history and charm. Once the capital of Santorini, it is the largest preserved medieval settlement on the island. While it lacks the luxury restaurants, bars, and infinity pool hotels found elsewhere, Pyrgos retains an authentic, untouched atmosphere that’s rare in Santorini today. Its traditional charm is what makes it so special. Highlights include exploring the Pyrgos Castle, visiting the “Santorini of the Past” museum, and hiking up to the beautiful viewpoint for panoramic island views. If your schedule allows, a quick stop here is well worth it.
Megalochori
Megalochori is another small, picturesque, and traditional village, much like Pyrgos, but with its own unique charm. The village is known for its tranquil atmosphere, narrow cobblestone streets, and beautiful architecture. Key attractions include the iconic Bell Tower of Megalochori and the Orthodox Church of Agios Nikolaos. You’ll also find charming local shops offering handmade and homemade products, adding to the village’s authentic feel. It’s a wonderful place to stroll, soak in the serene ambiance, and experience a more traditional side of Santorini.
Emporio
Emporio, the largest village in Santorini, is a charming and traditional town located at the foothills of Mount Profitis Ilias. Known for its medieval Kasteli (castle) and narrow winding streets, Emporio offers a glimpse into the island’s rich history and authentic architecture. Its whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and hidden courtyards create a picturesque setting. Unlike the busier towns, Emporio has a quiet, local vibe, making it an ideal spot to explore at a relaxed pace.
Akrotiri Lighthouse
The Akrotiri Lighthouse, located at the southern tip of Santorini, is one of the island’s most picturesque and tranquil spots. Built in 1892, this historic lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the caldera, making it a popular spot for watching sunsets away from the crowds. Its rugged cliffside location and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit if you are seeking a peaceful and scenic escape.
Perissa Beach (black sand beach)
We didn’t plan to spend an entire day at the beaches, as Santorini isn’t known for being a classic beach destination—forget the tropical white sand and palm trees. However, we were eager to explore some of its unique and extraordinary beaches, the kind you won’t find just anywhere and are truly rare to experience.
Perissa Beach, located on Santorini’s southeastern coast, is renowned for its striking black volcanic sand and crystal-clear waters. This lively beach offers a variety of water sports, beach bars, and tavernas, making it a great spot for relaxation and entertainment. The iconic Mesa Vouno rock, towering at one end of the beach, adds to its dramatic landscape and is perfect for a scenic hike. Perissa is a must-visit destination for those looking to enjoy Santorini’s unique beach experience.
Vlichada Beach (sand rock formation beach)
Vlichada Beach is a hidden gem known for its striking lunar-like landscape, with towering sand cliffs sculpted by wind and sea over time. The dark volcanic sand and clear turquoise waters create a dramatic contrast, making it a unique and peaceful spot to relax. Despite its uniqueness, it remains relatively quiet, with only few tavernas nearby offering delicious local food.
While the surroundings include a not so beautiful industrial factory with cranes, the beach is absolutely worth a visit to admire the impressive rock formations or enjoy a refreshing dip on hot days.
Kokkini Beach (red sand beach)
Kokkini Beach is a stunning and unique beach, known for its striking red volcanic sand and dramatic cliffs that surround it. The vibrant red color of the sand contrasts beautifully with the deep blue sea, creating a truly picturesque setting. It’s a bit more secluded and requires a short walk through a rugged path to reach, making it less crowded than some of the more popular beaches. Nevertheless, the parking is very small so during high season, it might get full.
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Boat trip
A boat trip in Santorini is a must-do experience, offering a unique perspective of the island’s stunning caldera and volcanic landscape. Most trips are on elegant catamarans, providing a luxurious and comfortable way to explore. These tours often include stops at iconic spots like the hot springs, Red Beach, and White Beach, with plenty of opportunities to swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. Sunset cruises are especially popular, as they offer an unforgettable view of the sun dipping below the horizon, painting the caldera in hues of gold and pink—a truly magical way to end the day.
Private Photoshoot
A private photoshoot in Santorini is a wonderful way to capture the magic of one of the world’s most romantic destinations. With its iconic whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and breathtaking caldera views, the island provides a picture-perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, engagement, wedding, or simply a special vacation, a professional photoshoot ensures stunning images to treasure forever. The experience adds a touch of glamour and romance to your trip, making it truly unforgettable.
RESTAURANTS AND BARS
Santorini offers a fantastic variety of dining options, from casual tavernas to upscale restaurants, catering to every taste. In Oia, Ammoudi Fish Tavern offers fresh seafood right by the bay with beautiful sunset views, while Kastro Oia Restaurant offers Mediterranean dishes with a fine dining experience and scenic caldera views. Piatsa Souvlaki Grill House and Niko’s Place are excellent budget-friendly options, offering great quality food at a reasonable price. Remember that you will always pay more if the restaurant has a view or if it is on the main street.
Argo Restaurant Village in Fira serves exceptional Greek cuisine with a modern twist, along with spectacular views of the caldera. For a more casual vibe, Pelekanos in Fira is a local favorite, known for its great service and delicious, traditional dishes. Café Galini, also in Fira, offers a cozy spot for coffee with panoramic views.
If you’re looking for a lively bar scene, head to 2 Brothers Bar Santorini in Fira, where you can enjoy cocktails and socialize with fellow travelers. For a relaxed evening, Karma Greek Restaurant in Oia provides great drinks and a laid-back atmosphere with unbeatable views of the caldera.
Food Tour
A food walking tour in Santorini is a delightful way to explore the island’s culinary treasures while discovering its charming villages and hidden gems. Led by local guides, these tours take you through bustling markets, traditional bakeries, and authentic tavernas, where you can sample a variety of Greek delicacies like fresh olives, local cheeses, and mouthwatering souvlaki. You’ll also get the chance to sip on fine Santorini wines and learn about the island’s unique volcanic soil that enhances its produce. It’s an excellent way to connect with the culture and flavors of Santorini.
Cooking Class
Taking a cooking class in Santorini is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Greek culture and discover why Greek cuisine is celebrated worldwide. Guided by local chefs, you’ll learn to prepare iconic dishes like moussaka, tzatziki, and fresh seafood using traditional techniques and the island’s finest ingredients. Many classes take place in picturesque settings, offering stunning views of the caldera while you cook. It’s a fun and delicious experience, perfect for food lovers eager to bring a taste of Greece back home.
Wine Tasting Tour
Wine tasting tours in Santorini are a must for wine enthusiasts, offering a chance to savor the island’s renowned volcanic wines. Famous for its Assyrtiko grape, Santorini’s vineyards produce crisp, mineral-rich wines that reflect the island’s unique terroir. These tours typically include visits to traditional wineries, where you can learn about the wine-making process, stroll through sun-soaked vineyards, and enjoy tastings with breathtaking caldera views.
ACCOMMODATION
Santorini is known for its stunning accommodations, many of which offer breathtaking caldera views and luxurious amenities like plunge pools. However, hotels with these premium features tend to come with a hefty price tag, particularly in Oia, which is known for its picturesque sunsets and iconic whitewashed buildings. If you’re looking to enjoy the beauty of Santorini without the steep cost, consider staying in Fira or Imerovigli, both of which offer fantastic caldera views at a more reasonable price. These areas still boast luxury hotels with plunge pools and the same scenic views but without the premium prices found in Oia. Additionally, other less-touristy locations on the island can offer more affordable yet equally memorable stays, providing a more relaxed atmosphere while still being close to the main attractions.
Luxury Hotels in Santorini
- Katikies Santorini (Oia) – Renowned for its stunning caldera views, infinity pools, and exceptional service.
- Canaves Oia Suites & Spa (Oia) – Luxurious suites with private pools and a serene spa experience.
- Grace Hotel (Imerovigli) – Famous for its infinity pool and panoramic views of the caldera.
- Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel (Oia) – Offers cave-style suites with a blend of luxury and tradition.
- Vedema, a Luxury Collection Resort (Megalohori) – Features a charming setting within a 400-year-old winery.
- Santorini Secret Suites & Spa (Oia) – Known for its private plunge pools and tranquil ambiance.
- Perivolas Hotel (Oia) – Minimalist yet luxurious, with sweeping views and a serene environment.
- Andronis Luxury Suites (Oia) – Offers personalized service and stunning cliffside accommodations.
- Astra Suites (Imerovigli) – Famous for its spacious suites and impeccable caldera views.
- Grand Ambassador Santorini Hotel (Akrotiri) – Private pools and panoramic views in a more secluded location.
- Cavo Tagoo Santorini (Imerovigli) – Modern luxury with striking design, cave pools, and unbeatable caldera views.
- Nobu Hotel Santorini (Imerovigli) – World-renowned Nobu experience with exquisite dining and sleek accommodations.
- Phos The Boutique (Akrotiri) – High-end private villas with infinity pools, ideal for those seeking exclusivity.
- Aspaki by Art Maisons (Oia) – Elegant suites with direct views of the caldera, blending traditional charm with modern luxury.
Boutique Hotels in Santorini
- Kapari Natural Resort (Imerovigli) – Elegant boutique hotel with a focus on eco-luxury.
- Charisma Suites (Oia) – Intimate and luxurious with private pools and exceptional sunset views.
- Aressana Spa Hotel and Suites (Fira) – Combines tradition with contemporary design and features an exceptional spa.
- Aria Suites & Villas (Fira) – An intimate boutique hotel with only six luxurious suites.
- Altana Heritage Suites (Imerovigli) – Offers a blend of traditional architecture and modern comfort.
- Remezzo Villas (Imerovigli) – A charming boutique property with unique cave-style rooms.
- Iconic Santorini, a Boutique Cave Hotel by Sandglass (Imerovigli) – A tranquil boutique hotel with a focus on bespoke luxury experiences.
- Santorini Heights (Pyrgos) – Offers an intimate and eco-friendly boutique experience with panoramic island views.
- Above Blue Suites (Imerovigli) – Unique suites with personalized touches and excellent service.
- Oia Mansion (Oia) – A historic property with luxurious accommodations and stunning sunset views.
- Petit Palace Suites (Fira) – Perched on the cliffs, this boutique hotel offers spectacular views and privacy.
- Ira Hotel & Spa – Adults Only (Firostefani) – Boutique charm with an adults-only vibe, offering spa treatments and serene caldera views.
- Echoes Luxury Suites (Oia) – Exclusive suites with modern design and panoramic views of the caldera.
Budget Hotels in Santorini
- Villa Manos Hotel (Karterados) – A family-run hotel with a friendly atmosphere, a pool, and traditional Cycladic-style rooms. Conveniently located near Fira, it’s a great option for budget travelers.
- Anemomilos (Oia) – Affordable rooms in Oia with a shared pool, a restaurant, and easy access to the scenic village. It’s one of the best budget options in the area.
- Antonia Hotel (Fira) – Centrally located in Fira, this hotel offers clean, simple accommodations, a small pool, and helpful staff at an unbeatable price.
- Pension George (Karterados) – A cozy, affordable guesthouse with a pool and garden. The friendly owners provide great service, and its location offers easy access to Fira.
We spent a total of four nights in Santorini, splitting our stay between two accommodations. For our first night, we indulged in a luxury Airbnb in Imerovigli called Aether Suites, which offered a plunge pool and stunning caldera views. We fully embraced the experience, staying in to relax by the pool with a glass of Prosecco and enjoy the peaceful sunset, all without the usual crowds. Afterward, we moved to a more budget-friendly option, Ether Thira (unfortunately permanently closed) in Oia, for the remainder of our stay, allowing us to experience both luxury and affordability without exceeding our budget.
TRANSPORTATION
We took a flight from Athens to Santorini, which took about 40 minutes. For transportation, we rented a car through CoolCars rental, the only company we found that offered both airport pick-up and port drop-off for a fee of just 10 euros. The car rental cost us 25 euros per day in October (prices may be higher during the peak season). They didn’t require a credit card, only a debit card for insurance purposes, and there was no deposit. They kept one of our documents (either an ID or passport as insurance), so it’s a good idea to bring both to have one available after they take the other. If you prefer not to rent a car, there is a bus service, but it runs only every 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the season, and only goes to Fira. This means you’ll have to change in Fira to reach other destinations, and buses to other areas aren’t frequent. Taxis are also an option, costing between 25 and 55 euros depending on your destination, but at that point, renting a car, scooter, or ATV is a much more cost-effective choice.
Guided Tours
If you don’t want to rent a vehicle yourself, the best way to explore Santorini is with a guided tour. It is an excellent way to explore the island’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and hidden gems. From walking tours through picturesque villages to in-depth explorations of archaeological sites like Akrotiri, these tours provide fascinating insights into Santorini’s culture and past.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The best time to visit Santorini is during the late spring and early autumn months, from May to June and September to early October. During this period, the weather is warm and pleasant, and the island is less crowded than the peak summer months of July and August. It’s a perfect time to explore the island’s beautiful beaches, charming villages, and local culture without the summer rush, and prices are generally lower during the shoulder season. Keep in mind that the sea might be a bit cooler, and evenings can be slightly chilly, so packing a light jumper is recommended.
CURRENCY
Greece uses the Euro (€) as its official currency.
1 USD = 0,98 EUR
1 GBP = 1,19 EUR
We recommend you to carry cash with you everywhere, as you won’t always be able to pay with card.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
We recommend to book a travel insurance for every trip as you never know what could happen. It’s not easy to deal with any kind of problems when you are abroad, so it’s definitely worth it to be covered and travel with peace in mind.
We use IATI travel insurance and you can book yours through our link and receive 5% discount.
Book here if you are from EU: https://www.iatitravelinsurance.com/en-eu/?r=96181493877707
Book here if you are from the rest of the world: https://www.iatitravelinsurance.com/en/?r=96181493877707
eSIM
If you’re travelling and want to stay connected without dealing with roaming fees or physical SIM cards, an Airalo eSIM is a super convenient option. You can install it directly on your phone before you even arrive, giving you instant mobile data as soon as you land. It’s perfect for using maps, booking attractions, ordering transport, and staying online while exploring. No need to search for WiFi or buy a local SIM — everything is handled digitally in just a few minutes.
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We hope this blog post was helpful to you and you are gonna have a great time while exploring Santorini. For more pictures and videos check out our IG story highlight (Santorini) and our reels/feed posts. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to comment bellow or contact us via email or even better via Instagram @borntotraveldiaries. Thank you for your time and stay tuned for our next diary page 🙂.
