Complete Santorini Travel Blog + Free Highlights Map

Santorini, Greece

Best Time to Visit Santorini

In our opinion, the best time to visit Santorini is during the shoulder seasons of May to June and September to October. The weather is warm, the crowds are thinner, and prices are more reasonable than during the peak summer months. If you visit in July or August, expect higher prices, packed streets, and scorching heat. We stayed in mid-September and had the most incredible time and weather. September is our absolute favorite month to visit Europe. Most of the time, the weather is still incredible and places are not as crowded, plus prices go down a bit.

Things to know before Visiting Santorini

• Currency: Euro (€)
• Language: Greek (though English is widely spoken)
• Electricity: Type C and F plugs (bring an adapter if needed)
• Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated (5-10% in restaurants)
• Tap Water: Not recommended for drinking; buy bottled water
• Island Etiquette: Dress modestly when visiting churches, and be mindful of locals in less touristy areas

How Many Days to Stay in Santorini?

We recommend at least 3 days to experience the best of Santorini without feeling rushed. This allows enough time to explore the charming villages, relax on unique beaches, enjoy local cuisine, and take in those famous sunsets. Many people come here by cruise, so being able to see the beautiful island before the cruise crowds arrive and after they leave is incredible. The sunsets are breathtaking but, trust me, you need to wake up early to experience the sunrise.

Best area to stay in Santorini

Oia: For the most romantic sunsets and luxury stays, but also the most expensive town. This is where we stayed and waking up early for the sunrise in Oia was a dream. 

Fira: Ideal for nightlife, restaurants, and easy access to transportation. It is the most convenient if you plan on using the public buses as all routes connect through the main bus station in Fira.

Imerovigli: A quieter alternative to Oia with stunning caldera views. Many honeymooners choose this town as it is quieter than Fira and Oia, is very beautiful, and tends to be cheaper than Oia.

Perissa/Kamari: Budget-friendly, near Santorini’s black sand beaches, but don’t offer the iconic scenery that people usually associate with Santorini.

Best Hotels in Santorini for Every Budget

• Where we stayed: 3 Elements by Stylish Stays (Oia) $$ – This place was the highlight of our trip! An elegant apartment in the heart of Oia, offering a sun terrace with a hot tub and incredible views of Santorini. We loved getting to our apartment in the afternoon after a long day of exploring, getting in the hot tub, and enjoying the beautiful sunset from the privacy of our terrace (no fighting the crowds involved).

• Canaves Oia Suites (Oia) $$$ – A breathtaking cliffside retreat with private plunge pools and unparalleled views.
• Astra Suites (Imerovigli) $$– An elegant boutique hotel with spacious suites and stunning sunset vistas.
• Costa Marina Villa (Fira) $ – A cozy and well-located budget stay with friendly staff and comfortable rooms.

Check current prices on our favorite booking platform, Booking.com:

How to get around in Santorini

Getting around Santorini is pretty easy, and you have several options depending on your budget and preference:

🚍 Public Bus (K.T.E.L.)
The most affordable way to travel is by public bus (K.T.E.L.), which connects major locations such as Fira, Oia, Perissa, Kamari, Akrotiri, and the airport. Since Fira is the central hub, all bus routes start and return there, with fares ranging from €2.00 to €2.50. Keep this in mind if you are staying somewhere other than Fira and plan on using the buses. Buses can get crowded, especially during peak season.

🚗 Car Rental
Renting a car is another popular option for those who want to explore at their own pace. Keep in mind that the roads are narrow, and parking in places like Oia can be very tricky. Also, visitors from outside the EU may need an International Driving Permit (IDP). 

Check daily rental prices below or on Rentalcars.com, our favorite website to compare and get the best prices:

🏍️ ATV / Scooter Rental
For a more adventurous experience, renting an ATV or scooter is a fun alternative, but exercise caution on the island’s winding and steep roads. Helmets are required, and an IDP may be necessary.

🚕 Taxis & Private Transfers
Taxis are available but can be expensive, with fares from Fira to Oia costing around €25–€35, but we heard stories of tourists being asked €100+ at night after the buses stop running. 

Since ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft do not operate on the island (Uber is available for taxis only and tends to be more expensive), we recommend pre-booking private transfers for convenience. We used Welcome Pickups to book a private transfer to and from the airport and had a great experience. This is the service we typically use and recommend, and it was cheaper than the quote we got from our accommodation.

🚶 Walking
Some areas like Fira, Oia, and Imerovigli are best explored on foot. The famous Fira to Oia hike is about 10 km (6 miles) and offers stunning views. If you are up for a hike (make sure you take water and avoid the middle of the day when it’s the hottest) then we highly recommend it. 

🚢 Boats & Ferries
You’ll need a boat to visit places like Nea Kameni (volcano), Thirassia, and Red Beach. Plenty of boat tours are available for around €30–€150, depending on the experience. More on that below.

🚠 Cable Car (Fira to Old Port)
If arriving by cruise, the cable car (€10 one way) is the best way up from the old port. Avoid the donkey rides—they’re controversial for ethical reasons.

Best Tours and Activities

• Take a Catamaran Cruise – This was our favorite thing we did in Santorini! The views are simply stunning and you get to swim in the hot springs. Go at sunset or daytime, both offer breathtaking views.

• Go on a Wine Tasting Tour – Visit some of Santorini’s best wineries and learn about local wine-making. Our favorite thing, besides the wine and the views, was not having to worry about driving or finding transportation back to the hotel.

• Take a Photography Tour – Capture the island’s most photogenic spots with someone who knows the best locations.

Best Free Things to Do

• Walk the Fira to Oia trail – One of the most scenic hikes in Greece.
• Visit the Red Beach – A dramatic coastline with striking red volcanic sand.
• Swim in Amoudi Bay – A picturesque spot with crystal-clear water.
• Explore the traditional villages – Pyrgos, Megalochori, and Emporio.
• Watch the Sunset in Oia, Fira or Imerovigli– It’s magical but get there early for a good spot. 
• Visit the black sand beaches – Perissa and Kamari are worth a stop.
• Wander the streets of Oia – Even window-shopping is an experience.
• Discover Pyrgos Village – A hidden gem away from the main tourist trail.

Food and Drink Guide

Santorini’s cuisine is a delightful mix of fresh seafood, traditional Greek dishes, and unique local flavors.

Best Restaurants in Santorini

🥘 Ammoudi Fish Tavern – A seaside gem in Ammoudi Bay. It offers fresh seafood with stunning waterfront views. You can enjoy freshly prepared fish, lobster, and octopus by the water, with Santorini’s cliffs and sunsets as a backdrop—an unforgettable dining experience.

🥘 Metaxi Mas – A cozy, authentic taverna, known for its cozy ambiance and exceptional Cretan and Santorinian cuisine. It offers hearty dishes made with fresh local ingredients, warm hospitality, and stunning island views—a must-visit for authentic Greek flavors.

🥘 Selene – A renowned fine-dining restaurant in Santorini, celebrated for its innovative take on traditional Greek cuisine. It offers a refined gastronomic experience with stunning island views.

🥘 Lucky’s Souvlakis – The best gyros in Fira! Very popular and well-known for its delicious and affordable souvlaki and gyros. A favorite among locals and visitors, it offers quick, flavorful Greek street food in a casual, friendly setting.

🥘 The Good Heart – A charming family-run taverna in Akrotiri, known for its authentic homemade Greek dishes. With fresh local ingredients, warm hospitality, and a rustic setting, it offers a true taste of traditional Santorinian cuisine.

Best Bars in Santorini

🍷 PK Cocktail Bar – Our favorite place in Santorini to watch the sunset while having a cocktail or wine without the crowds. Make sure to book your table in advance for the best location. The caldera and sunset views are spectacular.

🍷 Volkan on the Rocks – Another gem to watch the sunset without the crowds. Enjoy an outdoor cinema, local craft beer and cocktails, and a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re there for a romantic date night, a sunset drink with friends, or to enjoy a movie under the stars, it’s an unforgettable experience.

🍷 Santo Wines – a must-visit winery in Santorini, offering incredible caldera views, award-winning wines, and a great wine-tasting experience. Another great spot to enjoy a sunset with a glass of wine.

Must-Try Dishes:

• Tomatokeftedes (fried tomato fritters)
• Fresh seafood (octopus, calamari, grilled fish)
• Fava (yellow split pea puree)
• Moussaka (layered eggplant and meat dish)
• Greek salad with local feta and olives

Drinks to Try:

• Assyrtiko wine – The island’s famous dry white wine
• Ouzo – A traditional Greek aperitif
• Local craft beers – Try the Yellow Donkey beer

Santorini Highlights Map

This map includes all of our favorite locations around Santorini.

Final Thoughts

Santorini is one of those rare places that truly lives up to the hype. Whether you’re sipping wine while watching the sunset, exploring the island’s rich history, or simply soaking up the stunning views, every moment here feels special. If you’re planning a trip, prepare for an unforgettable experience—we’re already dreaming of our next visit!