Santorini stands as the epitome of Greece’s renowned islands, and it’s not hard to see why! The allure of Santorini lies in its unparalleled beauty and mesmerizing landscapes, making it a destination that one must experience at least once in their lifetime. However, its popularity comes at a price – the island is often teeming with crowds, and the cost of indulging in its splendor can be quite high.
HOW TO GET TO SANTORINI:
1. By plane with flights from Athens and other countries worldwide:
- Santorini has its own airport, Thira Airport (JTR).
- Direct flights are available from Athens International Airport (ATH) to Santorini all year long many times per day.
- The flight duration from Athens to Thira is approximately 40 minutes.
- You can find many charter flights, meaning direct flights from various European cities during the tourist season.
2. By Ferry from Piraeus port (Athens) and other Greek islands around
- Ferries and high-speed catamarans operate from Piraeus port in Athens to Santorini.
- The ferry journey takes about 5-5:30 hours, while the high-speed catamaran can get you there in around 2.5 to 4 hours.
- Other islands with which Santorini is connected to are Paros, Mykonos, Ios, Naxos, Folegandros, Amorgos and many others! Angel’s tip: The cost of a taxi from the airport to the port is 30 euros.
BEST TIME TO GO: To make the most of your Santorini experience, consider planning your visit during the more serene months of May and June or the relaxed atmosphere of September and October. These months offer delightful sunny and warm days without the overwhelming crowds of July and August. By choosing these off-peak periods, you can savor the beauty of Santorini in a more tranquil setting.
While the remaining months may bring even more budget-friendly options, keep in mind that weather conditions might vary, so it’s wise to balance cost considerations with your desired climate.
Perissa beach
MUST HAVE: Renting a car is essential for exploring Santorini thoroughly, as the island spans considerable distances, and relying on taxis can be quite expensive. The flexibility of having your own vehicle allows you to navigate the diverse landscapes at your own pace, discovering hidden gems and enjoying the scenic routes. By opting for a rental car, you not only gain cost-effective transportation but also the freedom to make the most of your Santorini adventure, ensuring a more personalized and enjoyable travel experience.
GOOD TO KNOW: Firstly, be prepared for the higher costs associated with Santorini. The island is renowned for its breathtaking beauty but comes with a price tag to match. Budget accordingly to fully enjoy your stay. Secondly, take into account that Santorini is frequently buffeted by strong winds. This weather characteristic, while adding a dynamic touch to the island, can influence activities and outdoor plans. It’s advisable to check the weather forecast and plan accordingly, especially if you’re sensitive to windy conditions.
HOW MANY DAYS: 3-4 days in Santorini are ideal to take a taste of the beautiful island.
10 T H I N G S T O D O I N S A N T O R I N I
1.Santorini sunsets: a must see experience
Renowned for hosting one of the most spectacular sunsets in Greece, Santorini, particularly in Oia village, offers a breathtaking display as the sun descends into the sea, casting vibrant hues across the iconic white houses. However, this enchanting moment attracts large crowds. To make the most of this celestial event, consider arriving early at the castle to secure a prime viewing spot. Alternatively, opt for a more relaxed experience by choosing a cozy cocktail bar where you can savor the sunset in comfort. Balancing the magic of the moment with a strategic plan ensures an unforgettable sunset experience on this captivating island. Angel’s tip: Great views you can have from Pacman restaurant at Andronis arcadia hotel.
2.Experience wine tasting
Exploring the renowned Santorini wines is a must, particularly the Assyrtiko and Vinsanto varieties. To indulge in this delightful experience, consider visiting some of the island’s wineries for tours and tastings:
- Venetsanos & Santo: Enjoy charming views while tasting exquisite wines at Venetsanos and Santo Wines.
- Boutari: Explore the wine offerings at Boutari, a well-known winery on the island.
- Estate Argyros: Sample one of Santorini’s best Vinsanto wines at Estate Argyros, renowned for its sweet dessert wine.
- Domaine Sigalas: Located close to Oia, Domaine Sigalas offers a delightful wine-tasting experience.
- Gavalas: For a small, friendly, and family-run winery, consider Gavalas.
If you’re looking to make the most of your wine exploration, consider joining a wine tour to visit multiple wineries and enhance your appreciation of Santorini’s rich wine culture. Cheers to a delightful wine-tasting experience on this beautiful island!
Angel’s tip: I had an amazing experience in “Santo wines” winery with breathtaking views.
3.Stroll around the beautiful villages
Oia is the most famous and gorgeous village in Santorini, but it gets really busy. It sits on a big cliff, looking out at the volcano and Thirassia island. Oia’s charm comes from its classic Greek style, with cute white houses, charming alleys, and an amazing sunset. If you want to explore other pretty villages that are less crowded, check out Pyrgos, Fira, Imerovigli, Firostefani, and Emporio, each with its own unique houses.
For peaceful views after a bit of hiking, visit Skaros rock. The views from the top are fantastic, you can see the whole caldera and the edge of Santorini town. Getting on top is not easy, but worth it.
Skaros rock
Angel’s tip: A perfect options in Pyrgos village with fabulous sunset views is Franco’s Cafè.
4.Have a swim on the famous beaches of the island
Don’t miss the chance to swim in the renowned beaches of the island. There’s the Red Beach with its striking red volcanic sand, the White Beach with its crystal-clear waters, and the Black Beach with its unique black sand. You can also explore other beaches like Perissa, known for its numerous beach bars, as well as Vlychada and Kamari.
Angel’s Tip: Even though Santorini boasts incredible landscapes and breathtaking scenery, the beaches are not something extraordinary. 
5.Have a drink at night in Fira
Fira stands as the capital of Santorini, offering a lively nightlife scene. As the sun sets, Fira comes alive with the opportunity to unwind and enjoy a drink. Take a stroll through the numerous bars, where you can immerse yourself in music and, on special occasions, revel in captivating views. Fira provides a perfect blend of entertainment and scenic beauty, making it a must-visit destination for a vibrant evening on the island.
6.Have a day trip in the Volcano of Santorini in Nea and Palaia Kameni islets.
Did you know Santorini has a live volcano? The last time it erupted was back in 1950! You can take a boat tour from Santorini to the small islands of Palaia and Nea Kameni. There, you can check out the volcano’s crater, go for a hike, and even take a dip in the hot springs. It’s a unique experience that adds a bit of adventure to your Santorini trip!
7.Savor the local flavours of Santorini
Exploring the culinary delights of Santorini is a must, and why not enjoy at least one dinner with a stunning caldera view? While the island’s food can be a bit pricey and occasionally geared towards tourists, here are some recommendations to satisfy your taste:
- Greek Cuisine: Try Metaxi Mas in Exo Gonia, Thalami restaurant and Oia Gefsis in Oia village, Rastoni in Fira, and Yogi for mouthwatering souvlaki.
- Scenic Breakfast Spot: For a delightful breakfast with excellent views, head to “Galini café” in Firostefani village.
- Fine Dining Options: Elevate your dining experience at Lauda restaurant, Lycabettus, and Throubi for a touch of fine dining.
- Seafood with a View: Try Seaside Santorini in Agios Georgios beach, visit Ammoudi Fish Tavern for delectable seafood paired with a dreamy view. Access is either by car or a scenic descent of 300 steps from Oia village.
- Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth: Indulge in sweets at Lolita’s gelato in Oia for a delightful treat.
Dine, savor, and enjoy the diverse flavors Santorini has to offer!
Lauda restaurant
8.Stay in a hotel with an endless view
In Santorini, you’ve got plenty of places to stay, and the top-notch ones are the hotels and suites in Oia village with stunning caldera views – that’s the prime spot! While it can get a bit pricey, I’d suggest splurging for at least one night in a caldera-view suite for the ultimate experience!
If you’re on a budget, there are more affordable options with great prices and lovely views in Fira, where the nightlife is buzzing. Other cool places to stay are in Imerovigli and Megalochori villages. And if you’re not too fussed about the views and want something even cheaper, check out Perissa. Plenty of choices to fit every budget!
Angel’s tip: I stayed in Megalochori village in a hotel called “Suites of the Gods”. 
9.Admire the ancient ruins in Akrotiri
In Akrotiri village, you’ll find an archaeological site dating back to around 1600 BC, preserved amidst volcanic lava. The presentation of the facilities and the ongoing meticulous work provide a fascinating glimpse into the past. Exploring how the village extends beneath the ash is truly impressive!
If you plan to visit, note that the opening hours for the Akrotiri archaeological site vary with the seasons. During the peak period from April to October, it’s open daily from 8:00 am to 6:30 pm. In the off-season from November to March, you can still visit, with the site open daily from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm or 3:30 pm. It’s a captivating journey into ancient history with a schedule that adjusts to the rhythm of the seasons.
10. Take lots of pics! Instagram worthy spots in Santorini:
Santorini is a haven for incredible photo opportunities, and honestly, every little corner is picture-perfect! Here are some must-visit spots for those jaw-dropping Instagram shots:
- The Famous Orange House in Oia:
- Located at “Kastro Restaurant Oia,” it’s an iconic spot for capturing vibrant hues against the backdrop of Santorini’s beauty.
- Blue Domes of Anastasis Church in Oia:
- Offering insane sea views, find this gem at “The Bubble Suite” on Google Maps. The blue domes against the azure sea create a mesmerizing scene.
- Oia Castle:
- A must-not-skip location! The Oia Castle presents a panoramic view that’s perfect for capturing the essence of Santorini.
- Windmills in Oia Village:
- Near Charisma Suites, the windmills in Oia are not only charming but also provide an enchanting backdrop for your photos.
- Akrotiri Lighthouse:
- Head to the Akrotiri Lighthouse for impressive views that offer a unique perspective of Santorini’s beauty.
Explore these spots, and you’ll be sure to fill your Instagram feed with the magic of Santorini!
You can check more in my Instagram profile and relevant highlight!
IG: angeliki.a_