Why go to Santorini
Santorini's cliff-top villages look down into a flooded caldera. Beyond the sunset crowds, there are black-sand beaches, volcanic wines and a Bronze Age city frozen in ash.
Best time to visit Santorini
Late May, June and September are the sweet spot: warm seas, open tavernas and fewer cruise passengers than July and August. From November to March many hotels and restaurants close.
Top things to see
Oia
The famous sunset village; arrive early or watch from Imerovigli.
Akrotiri
A Minoan-era town preserved by volcanic ash.
Fira to Oia trail
A cliff-top walk of about 10 km.
Red Beach
Dramatic cliffs near Akrotiri.
Pyrgos
Hilltop village with quiet lanes.
Ancient Thera
Ruins on a ridge above Kamari.
Things to do in Santorini
- Sail the caldera to the volcano and hot springs
- Taste Assyrtiko wine at a cliffside winery
- Swim at Perissa or Kamari black-sand beaches
- Watch sunset from Imerovigli's Skaros Rock
- Eat fresh fish at Ammoudi Bay
Local experiences
- Try fava, tomato fritters and white aubergine
- Visit a family-run winery in Megalochori
- Explore the island's quieter south
- Attend a summer cinema under the stars in Kamari
Where to eat in Santorini
Dishes to try: fava, tomatokeftedes, grilled octopus, fresh fish, Assyrtiko wine.
Ammoudi Fish TavernSeafood
Dining at the water's edge below Oia.
Metaxy MasTaverna
Cretan-influenced cooking in Exo Gonia; book ahead.
Where to stay in Santorini
Canaves OiaLuxury
Cave suites carved into the caldera.
KatikiesLuxury
Iconic infinity pools in Oia.
CavelandBudget
Hostel in a former winery in Karterados.
Best areas to stay
Oia
Picture-perfect and expensive.
Imerovigli
Caldera views, calmer than Oia.
Fira
Central, lively, good transport.
Kamari and Perissa
Beaches and better value.
3 days in Santorini
Day 1: The caldera rim
Day 2: On the water
Day 3: The south
See the full day-by-day itinerary
Festivals and events
Orthodox EasterSpring
Candlelit processions and celebrations in the villages.
Feast of the Assumption15 August
Religious festivals and village celebrations.
Getting around
Buses link Fira with most villages. Renting an ATV or small car gives freedom, but roads are busy in summer. Ferries and flights connect to Athens and other Cyclades.
Practical information
- Plug types
- C, F (guide)
- Voltage
- 230 V
- Emergency
- 112
- Tap water
- Not recommended; drink bottled water
Tipping: Round up or leave 5–10%. See our tipping guide.
Entry requirements depend on your nationality; check your government's travel advice and the destination's official immigration site before booking.
How much does it cost?
Approximate US dollar figures covering accommodation, food, local transport and sights; flights excluded.
Good to know
- Book accommodation months ahead for summer
- Avoid the donkey rides up the Fira steps
- Wear sturdy shoes: paths are steep and uneven
- Cruise ships crowd Fira and Oia in the middle of the day
Santorini travel FAQ
What is the best time to visit Santorini?
The best months are usually May–Jun, Sep–Oct. Late May, June and September are the sweet spot: warm seas, open tavernas and fewer cruise passengers than July and August. From November to March many hotels and restaurants close.
How many days do you need in Santorini?
Plan on 3 days to see the highlights at a comfortable pace.
What currency is used in Santorini?
The local currency is the Euro (EUR). Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carry some cash for markets and small vendors.
How much does a trip to Santorini cost per day?
Roughly US$120 per person per day on a budget, US$300 mid-range and US$900 or more for luxury, excluding flights. Prices vary by season.
What food should I try in Santorini?
Local favourites include fava, tomatokeftedes, grilled octopus, fresh fish, Assyrtiko wine.
What plug adapter do I need for Santorini?
Santorini uses plug type C, F at 230 V. Check whether your devices support this voltage.
Restaurants, hotels and prices change. Confirm opening times and book popular places ahead. Last reviewed October 2026.