Santorini Travel Guide
I'll start by saying this: My favorite destination in the WORLD, so far, is Greece.
It is the most remarkable combination of exploration and relaxing. From the black pebble beaches, to ATV-ing around the island, to incredible seafood, this has been the most memorable trip I’ve had. Nothing is ever rushed there, and the blue and white aesthetic, as well as the sunsets, are sensational.
Why Santorini?
Santorini is most known for its stunning sunsets, dramatic sea views, and adorable, white washed towns. It even has its own active volcano (that we hiked!)
The most famous attraction of Santorini is known as “The Caldera”, which you will hear often while visiting. You can even sail this! It’s the large, water-filled hole in the volcano. If you're totally terrified, that's okay too)
Where to Stay:
There are simply so many factors that contribute to finding the perfect oasis for your specific stay. (And I’d LOVE to help you decide!) I will say that Oia is the place you think of when you think of Greece - There are adorable balconies, incredible sea views, infinity pools galore, blue dome rooftops, and Instagrammable hotels left and right.
For some context, Exo Gonia is a quieter neighborhood, which is near Kamari, a cute town with some fun things to do. Oia will hands down be the most expensive to stay at.
Just ask me how to get you amazing upgrades and perks, wherever you stay.
When to Visit:
We went in the end of May, and it was PERFECT. Not necessarily the best time to swim, but the weather was warm, and crowds were incredibly scarce. We felt as though we were locals versus feeling swarmed with tourists. If you can't make it in April or May, September or October is another fabulous time.
What to Eat:
Kamari
Jutta’s Cafe
Cute, hole in the wall breakfast place with kitties surrounding you!!
Mango Bar
Fun place to get a late night drink and amazing gyros
Perissa Beach - The black “sand” beach
Sea Side
Best fried squid EVER, but pricey
Oia
Pelekanos has a 360 degree view of the stunning sea
Sunset Ammoudi - a MUST
Right on the water in Amoudi Bay, we ATV’d down
Ambrosia, caldera sea views
Elements Restaurant of Canaves Oia Epitome for a sunset fine-dining experience
For more cool vibes, check out Pacman at Andronis Arcadia
Thalami, caldera sea views
Kaliya in Fira
How to Get There
You'll arrive directly by flying in from Athens.
Doing some island hopping?
The boat ride from Athens to Santorini is 7 hours
A high-speed ferry is available from Crete to Santorini, and is about 2 hours on a newer boat
Fast ferries are available from Mykonos and Crete
Flights are available from Athens, Crete and Mykonos
You could even take a helicopter to the other Greek islands
It’s very important to plan ahead if you’re visiting multiple islands. While ferries will take longer than flights, you may need to connect back in Athens before transferring to your next island, which would burn through time quickly.
Things to Consider:
Don't come to Santorini specifically for the beaches. This is a volcanic island, which means the beaches are small, and rocky. Still FABULOUS, but something to keep in mind.
Santorini and Mykonos are often compared, but these two islands vary quite drastically. Mykonos is more party-centric, (think beach clubs!) and not quite as romantic for couples.
What to Do:
Watch the sunset one night at the lighthouse
A MUST: a sunset cruise!
Our favorite experience the ENTIRE vacation
We went on a 6 hour sunset & dinner cruise on a pirate ship leaving from Athinios Port. This cruise toured the volcano, went to the hot springs, included dinner and unlimited wine and a saxophonist!!! PSA: the ladies' blonde hair turned slightly orange from the hot springs/sulfate. Be sure to not wear white as it may stain if you swim too.
More Things to Do:
Sunset from Oia or Imerovigli - way less crowds
Taverna Santorini Mou has live bouzouki music and great outdoor terrace
Rent an ATV (quad), dune buggy, or scooter and explore the island.
Don’t rent an ATV in Oia - it will be premium price
Boat cruise to Nea Kameni and hot springs
Explore Thirassia
Volcana tour ticket or other volcano and hot spring ticket
Wander Pyrgos Village
Hike up to the ruins of Ancient Thera
Foot path hike from Fira to Oia (along the caldera)
This takes about 3 hours
Amoudi Bay
Cliff jumping
Seafood dinner/meal at Dimitris
Visit the traditional village of Megalochori.
Private helicopter flight of Santorini
Catamaran to nearby islands Ios and Koufonisia.
Wine tasting
Scuba diving and snorkeling
Cooking lessons in Fira
Boat excursion to volcanic isles of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni
Horseback riding on the beach during sunset
