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 ATVing 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? It's known as “The Caldera”, which you will hear often while visiting. You can even sail the "Caldera" - which is the large, water-filled hole in the volcano. (Anyone else GEEKING out!? If you're totally terrified, that's okay too)


Where to Stay:

There are simply too many factors that contribute to finding the perfect oasis for your specific stay. However, I will say that:

Katikies is marvelous option. This hotel is in the heart of Oia (which is the place you think of when you think of Greece) There are adorable balconies, and incredible ambiance and style. Not to mention - a TREND setter of a hotel.

Vedema – This is located in the village of Megalochori, and there are even views of vineyards! Talk about an authentic Greek experience with this gem.

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.

Ask me how to get you AMAZING upgrades at these hotels.

When to Visit:

We went in the beginning 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.

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.



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 

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 - Black “sand” beach

    • Sea Side

      • Best fried squid EVER, but pricey


  • Oia

    • Pelekanos has a 360 degree view of the stunning sea

    • Sunset in Amoudi - a MUST

      • Right on the water in Amoudi Bay

      • We ATV’d down


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.

    • We booked this in Kamari at the tourist place for $82/person, the booth was down the street from Mango bar.



  • 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 - premium price

    • Route:

      • Red beach

      • Akrotiri Ruins near by Red Beach

      • Perissa beach - black sand

      • Oia 

    • 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.
  • Donkey rides.
  • Cooking lessons in Fira.
  • Submarine tour beneath the caldera’s surface.
  • Boat excursion to volcanic isles of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni.
  • Horseback riding on the beach during sunset.

    Want to experience this magical island?
I'd be honored to help give you the incredible memories I'm blessed to have.
Start planning with me here.

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