Santorini Travel Guide

An Introduction

Perched dramatically on the edge of a caldera, Santorini is unlike any other island in Greece. Shaped by one of the most powerful volcanic eruptions in recorded history, an event that occurred around 1600 BC and may have inspired the legend of Atlantis, Santorini's striking crescent shape and steep cliffs are a direct result of its volcanic origins. The eruption collapsed the center of the island, creating a submerged caldera that now welcomes cruise ships and offers breathtaking views from the towns that dot its rim. The unique geological structure, combined with its iconic whitewashed buildings, makes Santorini the most popular and most photographed island in Greece.

While many Greek Islands follow a more seasonal rhythm, Santorini welcomes tourists year-round. Its popularity keeps restaurants, hotels, and attractions open after the peak summer season (June through August), making it an appealing destination even in the quieter, winter months. Beyond the dramatic views of the Aegean Sea and incredible sunsets, Santorini has an ancient history of winemaking. The island's volcanic soil gives its wines, especially the crisp local variety of Assyrtiko, a unique minerality. A visit to one of Santorini's wineries is a must, offering a different taste of the island's landscape.

While Santorini does have a few beaches, they are not typically the highlight of a visit to the island. Unlike other Greek Islands known for their long stretches of golden sand and turquoise waters, the beaches in Santorini are more rugged and remote, shaped by the island's volcanic past. You will find black and red sand beaches here, but they do require a bit of a drive and/or hike to reach. Santorini's beaches are more about the view than the sunbathing, and most travelers spend their time instead exploring the villages along the caldera, wineries, and archaeological sites on the island.

Whether you are looking to hike from Fira to Oia, wander through postcard-perfect towns at sunset, or immerse yourself in centuries of history, Santorini delivers it all. Here are some additional facts about the island of Santorini:

Akrotiri, a Minoan settlement from the Bronze Age on the island of Santorini, was preserved in volcanic ash, during the eruption around 1600 BC. The eruption buried the entire settlement under a thick layer of volcanic ash, which protected its buildings, pottery, and artwork from the ravages of time. Unlike Pompeii, no human remains have ever been found, suggesting that the inhabitants were able to evacuate before disaster struck. The inhabitants of Akrotiri remain a mystery that continues to intrigue archaeologists and historians. Today, visitors can walk through the partially reconstructed ruins under a modern shelter and see original frescoes, staircases, pottery, and tools that offer a window into a remarkably sophisticated civilization.
Santorini has a unique architectural feature called yposkafa, or homes built directly into the volcanic rock to regulate the temperature year-round.
The volcano of Santorini (known as Nea Kameni) is actually an active volcano, albeit a dormant one. Its last eruption was on February 2, 1950. A second active submarine volcano, named Kolumbo, lies approximately 7 miles (4.3 kilometers) northwest of Santorini.

Top Things to Do in Santorini

No Santorini travel guide would be complete without a curated selection of the island's top things to do! Santorini is a beautiful and extremely popular island in the Cyclades, filled with incredible wine and amazing views. Whether you are visiting for a day trip or an extended stay, these are the can't-miss attractions and top things to do in Santorini, Greece!

We've highlighted all the attractions we visited and adored with the universal symbol of love, ♡.

Visit Santorini's Wineries: ♡ The island's rich volcanic soil and dry climate create ideal conditions for winemaking. Spend a day touring local wineries like Santo Wines and Venetsanos, where you can enjoy tastings with sweeping views of the caldera. Do not miss a chance to try Vinsanto, Santorini's sweet dessert wine.
Enjoy the Caldera Views: ♡ The caldera is the heart of Santorini, formed by a massive volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. While the caldera can be viewed from across the island, one of the best ways to see it is by hiking from Fira to Oia, or by pausing in Imerovigli for some of the most dramatic viewpoints on the island. With the steep cliffs and sweeping vistas of the Aegean Sea, the caldera is a constant backdrop in Santorini that never fails to impress.
Take a Catamaran Cruise: ♡ One of the best ways to experience Santorini is from the water. Catamaran cruises typically include stops at the island's colorful beaches, time to swim and/or snorkel, and a visit to the volcanic hot springs in the center of the caldera. Many catamaran cruises also offer lunch or dinner onboard, making it a relaxing and scenic way to spend a half-day in Santorini. We recommend booking a catamaran cruise with our affiliate partner, GetYourGuide*.
Check Out the Postcard-Perfect Town of Oia: Famous for its blue-domed churches and whitewashed buildings, Oia is the most photographed town in Santorini. Stroll through its winding alleys filled with shops, cafés, and do not miss the ruins of the Castle of Oia, also known as the Castle of Saint Nikolas, where crowds gather nightly to catch the sunset.
Catch the Sunset: Watching the sunset in Santorini is a must-do for every visitor to the island. While Oia is the most famous spot to catch the sunset (and also the most crowded), you can get incredible views from Imerovigli, Fira, and even from the water. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into vibrant shades of pink, orange, and gold. The sunset in Santorini is one of the most beautiful and one of the famous sunsets in the world.

*If you book a tour or excursion through one of our affiliate partners listed in our Santorini Travel Guide, including GetYourGuide, we may earn a small commission.

Landmarks & Attractions in Santorini

Santorini’s caldera is undeniably the island's most iconic feature, offering breathtaking views from nearly every corner of the island. While some travelers seek out the “best” caldera viewpoint, we believe that the vistas are equally stunning from multiple locations, no matter whether you are in Fira, Imerovigli, or Oia. Since the caldera is not a single destination, rather a dramatic backdrop to the entire island experience, we will not list it as one specific stop in this Santorini Travel Guide. Instead, as you plan your trip, we have included below a curated list of the most popular landmarks and must-see attractions across Santorini.

Catamaran Cruises: ♡ One of the best ways to truly experience Santorini is from the water! Seeing Santorini from the Aegean Sea allows you to really grasp its unique topography and see some of its more remote sites. Catamaran cruises, in particular, often include stops at the Red Beach, White Beach, and the hot springs. While Santorini is not known for its sandy beaches, it does have beaches along its shoreline and the best way to reach them is by boat. Most cruises, particularly sunset cruises, also include an onboard meal, with fresh seafood and local wine, as you sail past the dramatic cliffs and watch the sunset over the Aegean Sea. Explore catamaran cruise options that suit your travel itinerary and budget with our affiliate partner, GetYourGuide.
Akrotiri Archaeological Site: Akrotiri is a remarkably well-preserved Minoan settlement on Santorini that was buried by volcanic ash in the 16th century BC. Visitors can explore the ruins and see pottery, frescos, and other artifacts that offer a glimpse into ancient Aegean life. The Akrotiri Archaeological Site is closed on Tuesdays. If you are interested in visiting the Akrotiri Archeological Site, we recommend booking a guided tour of the archaeological site through our affiliate partner, GetYourGuide, in order to gain a deeper understanding of the ancient ruins and the Minoan society that once inhabited them.
Ancient Thera Archaeological Site: Located atop Mesa Vouno on the southeastern part of the island, this ancient archaeological site dates back to the 9th century BC and offers incredible views of the coastline. Explore the remains of Hellenistic temples, Roman baths, and the Basilike Stoa, while learning more about Santorini's past. The archaeological site also includes scenic hiking trails. Like the Akrotiri Archaeological Site, the Ancient Thera Archaeological Site is closed on Tuesdays. The site is best reached by car.
Castle of Oia (Castle of Saint Nicholas): Located in Oia, the ruins of this 15th-century castle are now one of the most iconic sunset viewpoints on the island. The castle was built to be a defensive fortress during the Venetian occupation of Santorini. Though little remains of the original fortress, or castle, the panoramic views of the caldera and Aegean Sea from the ruins are pretty spectacular. No tickets are required to visit the Castle of Oia.
Museum of Prehistoric Thira: Located in Fira, the Museum of Prehistoric Thira houses artifacts from the Akrotiri excavation, including some of the beautifully preserved frescos, ceramics, and tools. The museum is an essential stop for understanding the prehistoric culture that once thrived on the island. The museum is closed on Tuesdays.
Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist: The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is a Roman Catholic cathedral in Fira, famous for its blue and yellow-colored façade. The cathedral is small, but it has a beautiful interior and is a well-known landmark in Fira.
Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral: Located in Fira, just a short walk from the main bus station, the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral is instantly recognizable by its grand arches, bell tower, and white domed roof. The interior is adorned with beautiful frescos and religious icons, offering a peaceful escape from the crowded streets in Fira.
Excursions to Nea Kameni & Thirasia: The two small, volcanic islands in the middle of Santorini's caldera are Nea Kameni and Thirasia. While the islands feature rugged terrain, they are famous for their hiking trains and volcanic hot springs. The islands are often included as a stop on boat tours of Santorini, allowing visitors to swim in the warm, mineral-rich waters. The easiest way to reach Nea Kameni and Thirasia is on a guided tour, like this excursion from our affiliate partner, GetYourGuide.

Good Eats in Santorini

We believe that one of the best ways to experience a culture is through its food. The food and wine in Santorini are among our favorites in the Greek Islands, with fresh seafood dominating the menus at restaurants around the island.

Must-Try Specialities in Santorini

No trip to Santorini would be complete without tasting at least one of the island's specialities, including:

Tomatokeftedes (Tomato Fritters): A beloved Santorinian specialty made with the island’s famously flavorful tomatoes, fresh herbs, feta cheese, and onions, lightly fried.
Fava: A creamy, protein-rich purée made from local yellow split peas grown on the island for over 3,000 years. Often served warm with olive oil, lemon, and onions.

Assyrtiko Wine: The island’s indigenous white grape variety, Assyrtiko, produces crisp, mineral-rich wines that reflect the volcanic terroir. It is dry, citrusy, and pairs perfectly with seafood. Cuvée (sparkling) varieties of Assyrtiko wine are also available at wineries throughout Santorini.
Nykteri: A traditional style of Santorini white wine made primarily from Assyrtiko grapes, Nykteri is fermented in French oak barrels. It is fuller-bodied wine and is famous for its bright, lemon yellow color. Nykteri pairs well with fish and white meat.
Vinsanto: Vinsanto is a naturally sweet dessert wine made from sun-dried Assyrtiko and Aidani grapes, aged in barrels for several years. Rich, amber-colored, and complex, it is one of Santorini’s most unique wine offerings. Seafood, like octopus, cooked in Vinsanto is common on menus around the island.

Restaurants in Santorini

Since we have spent the majority of our time in Fira, most of the restaurants we have frequented on the island - and recommend - are located here. Some of our favorite eateries in Santorini are listed below.

Kaffeine: A cozy café known for its laid‑back vibe, good coffee drinks, and light bites. Kaffeine is perfect for a quick breakfast bite or even a relaxed mid‑day break.
Katsaboo: A stylish, fine‑dining spot featuring modern takes on authentic Santorinian cuisine.
Volcano Blue: Perched on the caldera edge, Volcano Blue specializes in fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes. It offers breathtaking sea and caldera views and is a popular sunset‑dining destination in Fira.

If you are looking for even more restaurant recommendations in Santorini, including in Oia and elsewhere on the island, be sure to check out the links below.

CN Traveller: The Best Restaurants in Santorini, Greece >
Tripadvisor: Top Restaurants in Santorini >

Wineries in Santorini

Wine making on Santorini is an ancient tradition, dating back thousands of years to the Minoan period, and no trip to Santorini would be complete without trying a glass of the local wine. The wineries in Santorini provide a great atmosphere for enjoying some fantastic wine and some incredible views, while simultaneously escaping the crowded streets in Fira and Oia. Spending a day at the wineries in Santorini is our favorite thing to do on the island. While there are certainly more than three wineries in Santorini, these are our favorites.

Santo Wines (Megalochori): ♡ One of the most popular wineries on the island, Santo Wines offers the best caldera views from its modern terrace and tasting room. Santo Wines produces a wide range of wines, including crisp Assyrtiko and the island’s signature dessert wine, Vinsanto. Their wine tasting flights come with local bites, making it a great spot for a scenic, well-rounded tasting experience. The food on the menu at Santo Wines is also top-notch! Advance reservations are recommend, especially during the summer months, or if you are traveling with a large group.
Venetsanos (Megalochori): ♡ Built into the cliffside just above the port of Athinios, Venetsanos is known not only for its wines but also for its caldera views! The setting is serene and less crowded than Santo Wines, with panoramic views and a historic atmosphere. It is a great place to learn about the island’s winemaking history while enjoying high-quality Assyrtiko and other local blends. The food at Venetsanos is exceptional, so we definitely suggest enjoying it with a glass of their wine. Advance reservations are recommended for the peak summer months, especially if you are traveling with a large group.
Gavalas Winery (Megalochori): Gavalas Winery is a family-run winery with deep roots in Santorini and is one of the oldest wineries on the island. It offers an intimate, traditional tasting experience in a courtyard setting. Gavalas is known for its excellent varietals, including lesser-known indigenous grapes, as well as beautifully structured Assyrtiko and Vinsanto wines.
Santorini Brewing Company: For those who are less enthusiastic about wine tastings and prefer beer, the only brewery on the island is aptly called, Santorini Brewing Company. Two of their most popular beers include the Yellow Donkey and the Crazy Donkey IPA. Santorini Brewing Company is located in Mesa Gonia, between Fira and Kamari. The brewery is closed on Sundays. For up-to-date opening hours, please visit the Santorini Brewing Company website.

The wineries in Santorini are located across the island, but the largest are located in Pyrgos and Megalochori. The public bus connects Fira to both Pyrgos and Megalochori. You will want to take the bus from Fira towards Perissa or Akrotiri and get off at Santo Wines. (The bus stop is just across the street from the winery.) You can easily walk from Santo Wines to Venetsanos, just be careful as there are not sidewalks.

You can also drive to the wineries in Santorini as each winery does have ample parking available. Remember to be responsible and do not drink and drive. If you are looking for a more leisurely tour of the wineries in Santorini, wine tours are also an option! Some of the highest rated wine tours in Santorini, available with our affiliate partner, GetYourGuide, are listed below.

Transportation in Santorini

Santorini’s rocky, hilly terrain makes it more challenging to navigate compared to other Greek islands. While taxis are available, they are expensive. Many hotels offer transportation to and from the airport or ferry port, for a fee, but once you are on the island, walking is often the best way to get around. If you are planning to visit multiple towns or are staying outside of Fira, renting a car may be your best options for getting around.

Public Buses in Santorini

Santorini has public buses that connect various towns on the island. The buses in Santorini are extremely busy, but are the easiest (and cheapest) way to get around the island if you are not renting a car or ATV. The main bus station is in Fira and all of the buses in Santorini start and end their routes in Fira. While the buses travel across the island, most routes are not direct unless you are originating in Fira. For example, if you are staying in Oia, but need to get to the airport, you will need to take a bus from Oia to Fira, and then a second bus from Fira to the airport.

Bus tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver with cash, only. Different routes have different costs; however, bus tickets typically range from €1.60 to €2.30, per person. Buses run from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM, daily. More information about the buses in Santorini can be found on the Santorini Bus website.

Rental Cars & ATVs in Santorini

The easiest way to get around Santorini is with a rental car or ATV (also called a quad). We recommend obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP), also known as an international license, before renting one of these vehicles, as some rental shops in Santorini may require it.

Jetset Seeker Pro Tip: You can get your IDP in the United States via AAA for $20.00 USD. You can apply either in person, at your local AAA office, or by mail. For additional information, please visit the AAA website.

Before renting a car or ATV, confirm with your hotel that parking is available. If you are staying in Oia or parts of Fira, your hotel may not have on-site parking. In the event that parking is not available where you are staying, day rentals are available for cars and ATVs in Santorini, so that may also be an option. You can rent vehicles all over Santorini, however, some of the highest rated shops are listed below.

Santorini's Ports

Santorini’s main port is Athinios Port, located on the southwest side of the island below the cliffs near Megalochori. This is where all ferries arrive and depart, connecting Santorini with Athens (Piraeus), other Cycladic islands like Mykonos and Paros, and Crete. Taxis and public buses are available at the port, but private transfers should be arranged in advance when possible. Nearby destinations, easily reached by ferry from Santorini, include: Naxos (1 hour, 25 minutes), Mykonos (2 hours, 10 minutes), Paros (90 minutes), Heraklion/Crete (90 minutes), and Athens (5 hours).

The best way to book ferries around the Greek Islands is by using Ferryhopper. We definitely recommend that you book your ferry tickets in advance since they can sell out, particularly during the peak summer months. We also highly recommend that you arrive to Athinios Port one hour before your ferry's scheduled departure time.

Cruise Port

Cruise ships do not dock at Athinios Port. Instead, they anchor offshore in the caldera, and passengers are tendered to the Old Port (Gialos) just below Fira. From the Old Port, visitors can reach Fira via cable car, a steep footpath with 588 steps, or a traditional donkey ride. During the peak summer months, lines for the cable car can reach up to two hours, especially if multiple cruise ships are in port (which is not uncommon). If you are arriving into Santorini on a cruise ship, we suggest walking up the 588 steps to Fira from the Old Port. While there are certainly a lot of stairs, it will be your quickest route into Fira. Make sure that you bring water with you as there is little shade on the path and reconsider visiting Santorini if you are traveling with small children or if you have mobility issues.

Santorini Airport (JTR)

Santorini Airport (JTR) is a small, but busy airport located on the eastern side of the island, near the village of Kamari and about 15 minutes by car from Fira. It serves both domestic and international flights, with year-round connections to Athens and seasonal flights to major European cities during the summer months. The airport is small with limited facilities. Taxis and pre-arranged transfers are the most reliable way to get to and from the airport, as public transportation options are limited.

Why we love Santorini

Santorini is one of the most iconic destinations in Greece and with good reason. Its dramatic cliffs, long history, and incredible views make it a place unlike anywhere else in the world. It is definitely worth visiting Santorini at least once in your lifetime, especially as part of a longer trip to Greece. Thanks to regular ferry connections, especially during the summer months, Santorini is a great addition to any itinerary that includes other islands in the Cyclades like Paros or Naxos, or even with Crete to the south. Santorini is the most popular of the Greek Islands, and over-tourism - especially from cruise ship tourists - can take a toll on the experience. However, the island becomes noticeably more peaceful and atmospheric once the cruise crowds depart in the early evening and it is in the evenings when we have come to really adore Santorini.

Santorini is also one of the few Greek Islands open year-round, which makes it an appealing option for off-season or shoulder-season travel. Visiting in late April or early May, or even in late-September through October, means fewer crowds, more availability, and often better prices, while still enjoying great weather. Since Santorini is one of the most expensive travel destinations in Greece, traveling outside of the busy summer season, or pairing your travel to Santorini with more budget-friendly islands nearby, like Paros or Naxos, can help you balance both your itinerary and your travel expenses.

While Oia is the image that most people have when they think about Santorini - whitewashed buildings, narrow streets, and blue-domed churches - it is just one small part of what the island has to offer. And those blue domes? You can find them all across the Cyclades, not just in Oia.

One of the things that we love most about Santorini is its unique topography and rich volcanic soil, which has not only shaped the landscape, but also supports a thriving winemaking industry. The wines here are crisp, mineral-rich whites made from local Assyrtiko grapes, and in our opinion, are easily among the best in Greece. It is no secret that we LOVE the wineries on Santorini. Santo Wines and Venetsanos are two of our personal favorites, both offering incredible views of the caldera and laid-back tasting experiences. The wines are light, refreshing, and pair perfectly with fresh seafood, a warm breeze, and long afternoons in the Greek sun. Whether it is your first time in Greece or a return trip, Santorini deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Santorini Travel Guide: Towns & Where to Stay

Santorini, the southernmost island in the Cyclades, is extremely popular yet surprisingly small, covering only 28 square miles (73 square kilometers). Most visitors base themselves in one of its two main towns: Fira (Thira) and Oia. Before we dive into the towns on Santorini and where to stay, we want to provide you with a warning: Taxis or cars may not be able to drop you off directly at your hotel in Santorini. Santorini is a very old island with narrow, steep streets, especially in Oia. As such, you may have to walk some distance, possibly up steep stairs, with your luggage to reach your hotel. We recommend either packing light or booking a hotel that easily accessible by car!

Fira (Thira)

Fira (also spelled Thira) is located on the island’s western coast, in the center of the island's caldera edge. It sits high on the cliffs, directly overlooking the caldera, offering some of the most iconic views on the island. Fira is also well-positioned between the north (where Oia is located) and the south (toward Akrotiri and the beaches), making it a convenient and central base for exploring Santorini.

The town is a maze of whitewashed buildings, shops, cafés, and cliffside restaurants. Just below Fira lies the Old Port (Gialos), accessible by a winding footpath (featuring 588 steps), cable car, or even a traditional donkey ride. The Old Port is where most cruise ships tender into Santorini, bringing thousands of day-trippers who climb up to Fira to begin exploring the island. While often busy, especially during the peak summer season, Fira is the perfect base for first-time visitors wanting easy access to Santorini’s top sights and unforgettable caldera views.

During our first visit to Santorini in September 2021, we stayed at Irene City Villas in Fira. Was it the nicest hotel that we have ever stayed at? No, but it was clean, affordable, and the staff were very welcoming. More importantly, the boutique hotel was accessible by car and we were not traveling light. We knew that hauling our luggage up a bunch of stairs was not feasible, so we opted for a less scenic hotel that was easily accessible. Some other hotels we recommend in Fira are listed below.

Oia

Oia (pronounced Ee-ah) is Santorini’s picturesque and romantic village, perched on the island’s northwestern tip along the edge of the caldera. Famous for its whitewashed cave houses, windmills, and iconic blue-domed churches, Oia is the image most travelers associate with Santorini. The town is a maze of narrow pedestrian-only streets filled with boutiques and charming cafés, all with postcard-worthy views at every turn. Oia is also the most popular spot on the island to watch the sunset, with crowds gathering at the ruins of the old Castle of Oia each evening to witness the sky light up over the Aegean. While Oia is definitely more upscale than Fira (complete with high-end hotels and restaurants), it can get very busy during peak hours, especially when cruise ship passengers and tour buses arrive. So, be prepared for the crowds. While we have not stayed in Oia, some of the highest rated hotels in Oia are listed below.

Imerovigli & Megalochori

Imerovigli and Megalochori offer two very different but equally charming experiences on Santorini. Imerovigli, perched high along the caldera between Fira and Oia, is known for its sweeping, elevated views, and peaceful atmosphere which is ideal for romantic stays and honeymoons away from the crowds.

Megalochori, located inland just south of Fira, is a traditional village with winding stone alleys and quiet squares. Megalochori is also home to some of the island’s best wineries, including Santo Wines, Venetsanos, and Gavalas, making it a great place to stay if you are planning a relaxing trip filled with wine tastings. While we have not stayed in either of these towns, some of the most popular hotels in Imerovigli and Megalochori are listed below.

Hotels in Imerovigli

Hotels in Megalochori

Vedema, a Luxury Collection Resort

Our Thoughts on Santorini

We have a bit of a love-hate relationship with Santorini. There is no denying that the island is breathtaking with its dramatic cliffs, whitewashed buildings, and caldera views. Santorini really is one of the most visually striking places in the world. The sunsets live up to the hype and the unique volcanic topography makes Santorini truly one-of-a-kind. However, with that beauty comes an undeniable downside: overtourism.

In the peak season (June through August), crowds can feel overwhelming, especially in Oia, which can be jam-packed before lunchtime. Public buses in Santorini are often standing-room-only, too. Santorini is also one of the most expensive destinations in Greece and the high prices do not always match the experience.

With that being said, it is not all chaos. There are still pockets of peace and quiet on the island, particularly around the wineries and smaller villages like Megalochori and Imerovigli. We think three nights is the perfect amount of time to spend in Santorini. It gives you enough time to enjoy a catamaran cruise around the island, explore both Fira and Oia without feeling rushed, and spend a leisurely day wine tasting with views that will rival anything you will see from Oia. Any longer than three nights and the crowds and high prices might start to wear on you.

If you are visiting Santorini for the day on a cruise ship, we recommend booking an excursion directly through the cruise line. These guests are typically given priority on the first tender boats, which helps maximize your time on the island. If you would rather explore on your own, we highly suggest heading to the wineries, our favorite part of Santorini. You can reach them easily by public bus from Fira and even if you are not a wine drinker, many offer fantastic food and unbeatable caldera views. Plus, the atmosphere is much more relaxed than in Oia or Fira, giving you a chance to enjoy the island's beauty without the insane crowds.