PEAK SEASONS
Summer is the peak season. July and August are incredibly busy months while June is slightly less busy. Fortunately, crowds can actually improve the festive atmosphere.
Santorini, a Greek island in the Aegean sea, is the stuff of legend. Formed by an ancient volcanic eruption, this picturesque paradise is most recognized for the multicolored buildings lining its thousand-foot-high caldera edge. With its rich history, breathtaking panoramic views, stunning towns, volcanic beaches, surreal sunsets, and world-famous blue domes of Oia, Santorini is the Greek God of islands.
Santorini is easily one of my favorite destinations in the entire world for so many reasons, and hopefully, you will understand why by following this guide to maximize your time here.
Recommended Duration of Visit
4 days (ideal), 3 days (doable), 2 days (difficult)
Recommendations: Getting There
The port of Piraeus is where you’ll take your ferry to Santorini. I made a reservation with Seajets.
Recommendations: Adventure Gear
- Light/packable backpack, good hiking shoes, water bottle, summer clothes, sunglasses, and sun protection.
Click for some interesting facts about Santorini
- Santorini is actually comprised of 5 islands—three outer islands and two inner ones. However, it is often referred to as one island because the main island, Santorini, contains a significant majority of the land mass.
- Santorini’s name is a reference to Saint Irene. It is a contraction of the name Santa Irini.
- Caldera: a large volcanic crater. It is essentially the landform that remains after a volcano collapses into itself.
- Santorini is often connected with the myth of Atlantis. Although myths place Atlantis somewhere in the Atlantic ocean, the Minoan Eruption’s relates closely to Atlantis’s destruction. Therefore, it is said the eruption that created Santorini resulted in the destruction of Atlantis, plunging the kingdom into the ocean depths.
- Santorini has an area of 29.3 mi2 (75.8 km2), Therasia 3.6 mi2 (9.3 km2) , Nea Kameni 1.3 mi2 (3.4 km2), Palea Kameni 0.19 mi2 (0.5 km2) and Aspronisi 0.039 mi2 (0.1 km2). Only Santorini and Therasia have inhabitants. The others are simply for visiting.
- The entire bay—7 miles across—is a volcanic crater.
- Nea Kameni is at the center of an active volcano. Although you can’t see the lava, the fumes are clear evidence that they’re beneath the surface.
- There is a tomato—aptly named the Santorini—that grows in Santorini’s unique ecology (i.e. volcanic ash soil) and climate. These cherry tomatoes are extremely tasty and sweet.
SANTORINI’S STORY
Santorini was formed by the Minoan Eruption over 3 thousand years ago.
ATTRACTIONS
Blue domes, Nea Kameni, Ancient Thera, and volcanic beaches, among others.
LANDSCAPE
29.4 miles2 (76.1 kilometers2) comprised of caldera edges, volcanic beaches, hills, and mountains.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Nothing unusual—just summer parties and honeymoons. If anything, the entire island feels like special event.
PLANNING
Download an offline map of the entire Santorini region, decide on a method of transportation, and finalize lodging (this can get very expensive if planned late).
SANTORINI’S STORY
Santorini was formed by the Minoan Eruption over 3 thousand years ago.
PEAK SEASONS
July and August are incredibly busy months while June is slightly less busy. Fortunately, crowds can actually improve the festive atmosphere.
LANDSCAPE
29.4 miles2 (76.1 kilometers2) comprised of caldera edges, volcanic beaches, hills, and mountains.
ATTRACTIONS
Blue domes, Nea Kameni, Ancient Thera, and volcanic beaches, among others.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Nothing unusual—just summer parties and honeymoons. If anything, the entire island feels like special event.
PLANNING
Download an offline map of the entire Santorini region, decide on a method of transportation, and finalize lodging (this can get very expensive if planned late).
Attractions Overview
- Duration of Stay: To see most attractions on Santorini, I recommend a minimum of three days on the island. Some top attractions have conflicting times (i.e. Nea Kameni tours happen during Ancient Thera’s opening times).
- Places to View the Sunset: The sun sets at around 8 pm during the summers. Many restaurants are in perfect locations because they will face the horizon. Amoudi Bay is an excellent location since it’s at a lower elevation by the sea with zero obstructions. Oia Lookout—where the night photo at the top of the page was taken—is perhaps the best of all worlds because you will see the sunset and the town.
- Crowd Control: The crowds actually add to the festive atmosphere of Santorini, and it would feel strange to not see them. But if you must avoid crowds, arriving before 10 am is ideal.
Note: I do not discuss beaches in detail because, well, you’re on an island surrounded by water. Perissa Black Sand Beach is a great spot though.
Attractions Overview
- Duration of Stay: To see most attractions on Santorini, I recommend a minimum of three days on the island. Some top attractions have conflicting times (i.e. Nea Kameni tours happen during Ancient Thera’s opening times).
- Places to View the Sunset: The sun sets at around 8 pm during the summers. Many restaurants are in perfect locations because they will face the horizon. Amoudi Bay is an excellent location since it’s at a lower elevation by the sea with zero obstructions. Oia Lookout—where the night photo at the top of the page was taken—is perhaps the best of all worlds because you will see the sunset and the town.
- Crowd Control: The crowds actually add to the festive atmosphere of Santorini, and it would feel strange to not see them. But if you must avoid crowds, arriving before 10 am is ideal.
Note: I do not discuss beaches in detail because, well, you’re on an island surrounded by water. Perissa Black Sand Beach is a great spot though.
Oia: Oia is a town at the northern tip of Santorini. Famous for the cliff-side buildings, unique architecture, and blue domes, this town is unlike anywhere else in the world. As you weave through the town, you might feel as if you’re in ancient Greece.
Regardless of whether or not Oia accurately resembles ancient Greece, it just feels right. The narrow passages, the steps, the buildings, the ocean breeze, and the warm soothing climate combine to form an immersive and intoxicating experience. Even when overflowing with tourists, Oia feels festive instead of crowded.
Cost: Free to visit. Recommended Duration of Visit: 3 – 5 hours.
Anastasi Church’s Blue Domes: The blue domes, Santorini’s most famous attraction, is often the centerpiece of many postcards, magnets, and posters. Impeccably positioned on the caldera edge against a background that unites the surrounding structures with the sea and sky, these domes offer a striking and surreal panoramic view, especially during sunset. If you are interested, here is a detailed guide on where and how to find the blue domes.
Although not easily noticed, the Isle of Saint Nicholas lies at the base of Oia (bottom left) and subtly completes the scene.
Cost: Free to visit. Recommended Duration of Visit: 30 – 60 minutes.
| To newcomers, Oia can be quite difficult to navigate. As previously suggested in the Planning section, you should download an offline map of the Santorini region, especially if you might have minimal cell coverage. This will greatly aid your navigation of Oia. |
| Much of the area surrounding the blue domes is private property, so trespassing could get you in quite a bit of trouble (only if you get caught, of course 😉). Watch your step because you will be quite high up. |
Ancient Thera: Ancient Thera lies at the end of a long and winding road leading to the top of Santorini’s Messavouno mountain. Rich in history dating back over a thousand years, the ruins of Thera provide a glimpse into the town’s past. At an elevation of 1180 ft (360 km) the ruins provide the perfect vantage point for a gorgeous ocean view.
Cost: 4 € (euros). Recommended Duration of Visit: 2 – 3 hours (hike time included).
Thera: Thera, commonly referred to as Fira, is the capital of Santorini. This town features an assortment of attractions, shops, cafes, and markets. Unlike Oia, Thera is spacious, flat, and resembles a modern town (with its own supermarket). It is more suited to leisurely strolls and casual shopping than its crowded neighbor Oia.
Cost: Free to Visit. Recommended Duration of Visit: 2 – 3 hours.
| The heat can be stifling at the top of the mountain. It’s less hot earlier in the day. If you are feeling adventurous, a one hour hike to Ancient Thera from Perissa is possible. Ancient Thera actually closes at around 4 pm and is a “ruin,” so you’re looking at crumbled stone buildings and pillars. |
| The names Thera and Fira are used interchangeably, so commit them to memory to avoid the confusion commonly faced by newcomers. Thera should be the central point for your actitivies planning. Many trips, tours, and services can be booked here. Furthermore, Thera has many impressive attractions of its own. |
Amoudi Bay: Amoudi Bay lies at the base of the caldera, below the town of Oia. Known for the fresh seafood, stunning scenery, perfect view of the ocean, and relaxing ocean breeze, this locale is an excellent aquatic escape from the busy towns.
Cost: Free to visit. Recommended Duration of Visit: 2 – 4 hours.
Isle of Saint Nicholas: This isle, past Amoudi Bay, is the centerpiece of a phenomenal swimming spot—one far less crowded than the beaches. The isle itself is great for photos and the clear blue water is calm and relaxing. Since the isle is below Oia, there is a perfect view of the famous multicolored buildings on the caldera edge. The isle also has a structure with a ledge for jumping off.
Cost: Free to visit. Recommended Duration of Visit: 2 – 3 hours.
| Amoudi Bay is an excellent place to view the sunset, and it’s just a short walk from Oia. If you are heading to the Isle of Saint Nicholas, you will be passing through the bay as well. This is a very picturesque spot that is not commonly crowded. And although delicious, the seafood can be quite expensive here (it’s like that throughout the island though). |
| Arriving before 10 am is highly recommended to avoid the crowds, and parking will be a breeze. Either from Oia or the parking spot, you will have to walk a bit to reach the isle, so bring comfortable footwear. The slippery and rocky terrain will be problematic without proper footwear. Although not a beach, the water is still shallow closer to shore. |
Nea Kameni: Nea Kamena is the central landmass and the heart of Santorini’s volcanic activity. This uninhabited island is closely monitored by scientists due to its active sulfur vents. Although deemed safe from volcanic activity, the vents still emit extremely hot fumes. Daily boat trips to this place offer an excellent chance to partake in a very scenic and nontraditional hike around the volcanic island.
Cost: Variable depending on the tour package. Recommended Duration of Visit: 1 – 1.5 hours.
Palia Kameni & Therasia: Palia Kameni lies to the southwest of Nea Kameni. Even though the island is uninhabited, there is, surprisingly, a church alongside a delightful hot spring where you can take mud baths.
Therasia is the westernmost island and one of the destinations after Nea Kameni (if you choose to include it in your tour package). The hike to the top of the island is quite scenic, and the island’s coast is similar to Amoudi Bay with restaurants scattered along the water.
Cost: Variable depending on the tour package. Recommended Duration of Visit: 30 – 60 minutes.
| As you explore Santorini, locate signs that advertise “Volcano Trips.” If you are within the Perissa region, there is an information center across from Thireos restaurant. There are places in Thera as well. Once the reservation is complete, they will take care of everything for you. You just need to show up in the morning (usually at 9 am or so) and the bus will take you to the pirate ships. Do note that a roundtrip will take up about half the day, and the tour company will provide a time estimate depending on the package. |
| The ships will stop a short distance away and let passengers jump off and swim to the hot spring. Aside from the fact that the spring is incredible, it’s very fun to jump off pirate ships with everyone else. The mud lies to the bottom, so, unless you reach down to grab and smear it on yourself, the mud should not get on your body (if that’s not your thing). As for Therasia, I recommend a hike to the highest point for the view. And since the island is far quieter compared to Santorini, it is an ideal haven of rest for the busy day ahead. |
Oia: Oia is a town at the northern tip of Santorini. Famous for the cliff-side buildings, unique architecture, and blue domes, this town is unlike anywhere else in the world. As you weave through the town, you might feel as if you’re in ancient Greece.
Regardless of whether or not Oia accurately resembles ancient Greece, it just feels right. The narrow passages, the steps, the buildings, the ocean breeze, and the warm soothing climate combine to form an immersive and intoxicating experience. Even when overflowing with tourists, Oia feels festive instead of crowded.
Cost: Free to visit. Recommended Duration of Visit: 3 – 5 hours.
| To newcomers, Oia can be quite difficult to navigate. As previously suggested in the Planning section, you should download an offline map of the Santorini region, especially if you might have minimal cell coverage. This will greatly aid your navigation of Oia. |
Anastasi Church’s Blue Domes: The blue domes, Santorini’s most famous attraction, is often the centerpiece of many postcards, magnets, and posters. Impeccably positioned on the caldera edge against a background that unites the surrounding structures with the sea and sky, these domes offer a striking and surreal panoramic view, especially during sunset.
Although not easily noticed, the Isle of Saint Nicholas lies at the base of Oia (bottom left) and subtly completes the scene.
Cost: Free to visit. Recommended Duration of Visit: 30 – 60 minutes.
| Much of the area surrounding the blue domes is private property, so trespassing could get you in quite a bit of trouble (only if you get caught, of course 😉). Watch your step because you will be quite high up. |
Ancient Thera: Ancient Thera lies at the end of a long and winding road leading to the top of Santorini’s Messavouno mountain. Rich in history dating back over a thousand years, the ruins of Thera provide a glimpse into the town’s past. At an elevation of 1180 ft (360 km) the ruins provide the perfect vantage point for a gorgeous ocean view.
Cost: 4 € (euros). Recommended Duration of Visit: 2 – 3 hours (hike time included).
| The heat can be stifling at the top of the mountain. It’s less hot earlier in the day. If you are feeling adventurous, a one hour hike to Ancient Thera from Perissa is possible. Ancient Thera actually closes at around 4 pm and is a “ruin,” so you’re looking at crumbled stone buildings and pillars. |
Thera: Thera, commonly referred to as Fira, is the capital of Santorini. This town features an assortment of attractions, shops, cafes, and markets. Unlike Oia, Thera is spacious, flat, and resembles a modern town (with its own supermarket). It is more suited to leisurely strolls and casual shopping than its crowded neighbor Oia.
Cost: Free to visit. Recommended Duration of Visit: 2 – 3 hours.
| The names Thera and Fira are used interchangeably, so commit them to memory to avoid the confusion commonly faced by newcomers. Thera should be the central point for your actitivies planning. Many trips, tours, and services can be booked here. Furthermore, Thera has many impressive attractions of its own. |
Amoudi Bay: Amoudi Bay lies at the base of the caldera, below the town of Oia. Known for the fresh seafood, stunning scenery, perfect view of the ocean, and relaxing ocean breeze, this locale is an excellent aquatic escape from the busy towns.
Cost: Free to visit. Recommended Duration of Visit: 2 – 4 hours.
| Amoudi Bay is an excellent place to view the sunset, and it’s just a short walk from Oia. If you are heading to the Isle of Saint Nicholas, you will be passing through the bay as well. This is a very picturesque spot that is not commonly crowded. And although delicious, the seafood can be quite expensive here (it’s like that throughout the island though). |
Isle of Saint Nicholas: This isle, past Amoudi Bay, is the centerpiece of a phenomenal swimming spot—one far less crowded than the beaches. The isle itself is great for photos and the clear blue water is calm and relaxing. Since the isle is below Oia, there is a perfect view of the famous multicolored buildings on the caldera edge. The isle also has a structure with a ledge for jumping off.
Cost: Free to visit. Recommended Duration of Visit: 2 – 3 hours.
| Arriving before 10 am is highly recommended to avoid the crowds, and parking will be a breeze. Either from Oia or the parking spot, you will have to walk a bit to reach the isle, so bring comfortable footwear. The slippery and rocky terrain will be problematic without proper footwear. Although not a beach, the water is still shallow closer to shore. |
Nea Kameni: Nea Kamena is the central landmass and the heart of Santorini’s volcanic activity. This uninhabited island is closely monitored by scientists due to its active sulfur vents. Although deemed safe from volcanic activity, the vents still emit extremely hot fumes. Daily boat trips to this place offer an excellent chance to partake in a very scenic and nontraditional hike around the volcanic island.
Cost: Variable depending on the tour package. Recommended Duration of Visit: 1 – 1.5 hours.
| As you explore Santorini, locate signs that advertise “Volcano Trips.” If you are within the Perissa region, there is an information center across from Thireos restaurant. There are places in Thera as well. Once the reservation is complete, they will take care of everything for you. You just need to show up in the morning (usually at 9 am or so) and the bus will take you to the pirate ships. Do note that a roundtrip will take up about half the day, and the tour company will provide a time estimate depending on the package. |
Palia Kameni & Therasia: Palia Kameni lies to the southwest of Nea Kameni. Even though the island is uninhabited, there is, surprisingly, a church alongside a delightful hot spring where you can take mud baths.
Therasia is the westernmost island and one of the destinations after Nea Kameni (if you choose to include it in your tour package). The hike to the top of the island is quite scenic, and the island’s coast is similar to Amoudi Bay with restaurants scattered along the water.
Cost: Variable depending on the tour package. Recommended Duration of Visit: 30 – 60 minutes.
| The ships will stop a short distance away and let passengers jump off and swim to the hot spring. Aside from the fact that the spring is incredible, it’s very fun to jump off pirate ships with everyone else. The mud lies to the bottom, so, unless you reach down to grab and smear it on yourself, the mud should not get on your body (if that’s not your thing). As for Therasia, I recommend a hike to the highest point for the view. And since the island is far quieter compared to Santorini, it is an ideal haven of rest for the busy day ahead. |
Adventurous Activities
Exploring Ruins
Ruin raider
Jumping Off Cliffs
Leap of faith
Driving ATVs
Wild ride
EXPLORING ANCIENT RUINS: Feed the adventurer within by exploring off the beaten path.
| PRO TIP: Aside form Ancient Thira and Akrotiri, there are several random ancient structures scattered throughout the island. Throughout the island, there are also multiple peaks that you can hike to as well. The thrill of exploration and the view is always worth it. So, if you truly enjoy hiking and exploring, then a mission to a mysterious peak, structure, or ruin is definitely worth it. Every island has something interesting to explore. You’re also a short distance away from civilization, so it’s still safe (as long as you don’t fall). | COST: Low low price of 0 €. | |
JUMPING OFF CLIFFS: Jump off a cliff (and preferably into water) for a quick rush of adrenaline.
| PRO TIP: Cliffs surround the entire island, so freediving or jumping off cliffs is a common and fun activity. The best and safest place to do this is on the Isle of Saint Nicholas. In fact, I do not recommend anywhere else besides the Isle if you have minimal experience with this activity. Be extra careful when you climb the island. Naturally, the moss and water makes the rocks very slippery. However, there are clear stepping paths towards the top. As long as you remain vigilant, everything will be fine. The jump is about 20 feet (6 meters) and the water is several times that depth, ensuring complete safety. Naturally, do not jump if you feel you can’t handle it. | COST: Free | |
DRIVING ATVS AND MOTORBIKES: Navigate the winding and narrow roads of Santorini with ease and exhilaration.
| PRO TIP: If you can rent one, an ATV, quad, or motorbike solves many navigation and parking problems commonly found on the island. Santorini is the perfect place to drive these vehicles. Due to the nature of the winding and narrow roads, cars do not travel very quickly, so accidents are nonexistent. And the sunny climate is perfect. Only rent a motorbike if you are comfortable, of course. An ATV is all-around a safe bet. | COST: 30-50 € (euros) per day. | |
This list is by no means comprehensive, so partake in other adventurous activities (i.e. sailing, scuba diving, etc.) if you have the time.
Activity Schedule and Map
Itinerary
Below are a map and schedule—the same one I followed during my time in Santorini. Both will be good references for all your activity planning needs. I stayed at the Santorini Breeze hostel in Perissa, so I was always within walking distance of Perissa Black Sand Beach.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
GENERAL
More information on Thireos
- This simple establishment is my favorite restaurant on Santorini. The meat for the gyro here closely resembles the doner kebab and shawarma. So, if you are a fan of either of those things, this is the restaurant to visit. I thought the gyro meat was perfectly marinated, so I ate here every day.
- Although not stated on the menu, you can ask for half chicken and half pork. They’re both delicious.
- Fair Warning: I have not tried the other items on the menu, so I can’t guarantee they’ll be as good as the gyros.
What to order: The Half Chicken and Half Pork Gyro is my favorite.
More information on Dimitri’s Amoudi Tavern
- This outdoor restaurant has delicious seafood and a great view. Many of the fish are caught that day, and you are allowed to handpick your meal.
- The prices are in kilograms, and you can get half a kilogram for a decent meal.
What to order: The Grilled Grouper, Grilled Snapper, or any other grilled fish are good choices.
More information on Parea Tavern
- Aside from great food, this restaurant has upstairs and downstairs seating areas—both of which are great depending on your preferred view.
- The atmosphere is amazing and there are even TVs for your viewing pleasure.
What to order: The Mussels and the Seafood Platter are good options, but the traditional Greek options are excellent as well
More information on Flora
- This restaurant features an elegant dining area and friendly staff. Located towards the center of Oia, it’s a perfect spot to grab a meal after shopping or sightseeing.
- There is an excellent assortment of breakfast if you’re in town early in the morning. Naturally, it is known for its assortment of drinks.
What to order: Although I ordered the hamburger, I do not recommend it. The Pepperoni or Margarita Pizzas and Pastas
More information on Lefkes
- As one of the premier restaurants on the island and my second favorite restaurant, Lefkes features a luxurious environment and music. Lefkes is a great choice for dinner.
- The interior design is intricate (even the bathroom is fancy) and there are seating arrangements indoors or outdoors.
- Despite appearances, this place is quite affordable.
What to order: The Lamb is the delicious signature dish but the Beef Souvlaki is a solid choice as well. And although I have not tried the vegetarian options, I hear the Mushroom Fricassee is excellent.
GENERAL
More information on Thireos
- This simple establishment is my favorite restaurant on Santorini. The meat for the gyro closely resembles the Turkish doner kebab. So, if you are a fan of gyros or doner kebab, this is the restaurant to visit. I thought the gyro meat was perfectly marinated, so I ate here every day.
- Although not stated on the menu, you can ask for half chicken and half pork. They’re both delicious.
- Fair Warning: I have not tried the other items on the menu, so I can’t guarantee they’ll be as good as the gyros.
What to order: The Half Chicken and Half Pork Gyro is my favorite.
More information on Dimitri’s Amoudi Tavern
- This outdoor restaurant has delicious seafood and a great view. Many of the fish are caught that day, and you are allowed to handpick your meal.
- The prices are in kilograms, and you can get half a kilogram for a decent meal.
What to order: The Grilled Grouper, Grilled Snapper, or any other grilled fish are good choices.
More information on Parea Tavern
- Aside from great food, this restaurant has upstairs and downstairs seating areas—both of which are great depending on your preferred view.
- The atmosphere is amazing and there are even TVs for your viewing pleasure.
What to order: The Mussels and the Seafood Platter are good options, but the traditional Greek options are excellent as well.
More information on Flora
- This restaurant features an elegant dining area and friendly staff. Located towards the center of Oia, it’s a perfect spot to grab a meal after shopping or sightseeing.
- There is an excellent assortment of breakfast if you’re in town early in the morning. Naturally, it is known for its assortment of drinks.
What to order: Although I ordered the hamburger, I do not recommend it. The Pepperoni or Margarita Pizzas and Pastas
More information on Lefkes
- As one of the premier restaurants on the island and my second favorite restaurant, Lefkes features a luxurious environment and music. Lefkes is a great choice for dinner.
- The interior design is intricate (even the bathroom is fancy) and there are seating arrangements indoors or outdoors.
- Despite appearances, this place is quite affordable.
What to order: The Lamb is the delicious signature dish but the Beef Souvlaki is a solid choice as well. And although I have not tried the vegetarian options, I hear the Mushroom Fricassee is excellent.
Santorini exists in its own little world. As a perpetual paradise, it offers everything vacationers could want—beaches, sunshine, exotic attractions, and an escape from one’s troubles. And the amenities of civilization are only a few minutes away. To top it off, the mainland is a mere couple hours away by ferry ride.
This small island draws millions every year because there is no place quite like it.
On a final note, make sure to share this page so others will know more about Santorini!
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