Santorini
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Santorini is one of many island in the Cyclades region in the Aegean Sea. Santorini was devastated by a volcanic eruption long ago, forever shaping its gorgeous, rugged landscape. Over the past few decades, this Greek island has become ubiquitously known for its square blue and white houses, traditional villages, magnificent sunsets, and sweeping caldera views.
Travel tip #1: Santorini has a less luxurious past, as it was invaded and inhabited by different groups throughout history. When the Spartans inhabited the island, they named it after their King, Thira. Thira remains the official name of Santorini. However, in 1204 AD the Franks arrived and named the island Santa Irene. Over the years, Santa Irene transformed into Santorini, which is what the island is commonly referred to as.
Places of Interest
Church of Saint Gerasimos: This Greek Orthodox church in Firostefani was erected in 1807. It has a spectacular view of the caldera that can be appreciated while walking to the Three Bells of Fira.
Three Bells of Fira: The Three Bells of Fira, officially known as the Catholic Church of the Dormition, is a Greek Catholic church in the town of Fira. From above the church, you have a beautiful view of the blue-painted church dome and its three iconic bells while overlooking the caldera, the other islands, and Oía in the distance.
Oía and Oía Castle: Oía is located on the northwestern tip of Santorini. The town features white houses carved into the rugged clifftops that overlook the caldera. Oía is one of the more well-known spots on the island and is where many people take their Santorini-esque photos. The ruins of Oía Castle are worth visiting while there, other than shopping and eating.
Fira to Oía Hike: This hike-walk from the town of Fira to Oía (or Oía to Fira) is about 10 kilometers (6 miles). It takes between 3-5 hours to complete in total, and has been noted as one of the best things to do while in Santorini. You will be in direct sunlight throughout your time on the trail, so bring plenty of water and snacks if you aim to hike it in its entirety.
Skaros Rock and Panagia Theoskepasti: This 1.4-kilometer (0.9 mile) loop trail near Imerovigli takes a little under an hour to complete. The recommended public route to the trail avoids the staircase that weaves through private areas. It is a very popular area for hiking, so the trail can be quite busy. The hike to and up Skaros Rock is in direct sunlight, just like the Fira to Oía Hike.
Akrotiri Lighthouse: Located in the most southwestern tip of the island, this 19th-century lighthouse boasts impressive views. It was built in 1892, making the lighthouse one of the oldest in Greece. You can walk around or sit on the rocks near the lighthouse, take lots of photos, and enjoy a snack.
Red Beach: This well-hidden beach is down a steep slope, making it quite difficult to access. The unique color of the sand and rocks coupled with the volcanic landscape make this a popular destination. The iron oxidization creates the red color throughout the area.
Perissa Beach: One of the nicer beaches in Santorini. It is known for its black sand and clear water. Get there early to snag a beach chair with umbrella along the shore—just buy a drink or two from the adjacent cafes that own the space.
Travel tip #2: Santorini is not known for its beaches, so don’t set your expectations too high. The beaches on this island are all created from lava, which means they have unique colors such as black, red, and white. The beaches mostly consist of pebbles and rocks—not the most ideal for relaxing when compared to sand—and are mostly on the eastern coast of the island.
Food & Drink
Santorini honey: Definitely try the local honey while on the island. Even though it is available throughout the year, the honey collected in August is considered to be the best; the island’s fertile volcanic soil combined with the thyme, savory, sage, and wildflowers produce the best honey in regard to vitamins, color, and aroma.
Eggomico: Located along Fira’s main street, this is a great simple spot for coffee, breakfast, and brunch. Be sure to get your Freddo Cappuccino from here!
Filos: Get your souvlaki fix from this pretty restaurant in Fira. Their back patio is beautiful, adorned with colorful décor and mediterranean vibes. Good any time of the day, but especially great if you’re out for drinks.
Volkan on the Rocks: This café and restaurant in Firostefani is a good place to relax during the day for small plates or to grab drinks in the early evening. It’s on the cliffside in the middle of the caldera, overlooking the water.
Kantouni: This restaurant in Pyrgos is renowned for its traditional homemade dishes in a laidback, outdoor space. More high-end than other places yet home-y in taste. Try their lamb skewers, tzatziki, as well as dolmadakia paired with a bottle of wine from Hatzindakis Winery. Ask about their desserts, which are on rotation and tend to differ each day.
Metaksi Mas: The hillside restaurant has rustic vibes. Enjoy delicious Cretan and Santorinian cuisine made with the freshest ingredients while soaking in scenic ocean views. Compared to other restaurants, this place is a bit difficult to find, as its tucked away.
The Dolphins Tavern: Directly on the ocean is the Dolphins Tavern, where you can eat freshly caught seafood and home-cooked meals. After visiting the Red Beach, head here for a lovely seaside meal. Their squid and octopus were phenomenal!
Venetsanos Winery: One of the many amazing wineries on Santorini. Venetsanos is the perfect place to watch the sun set over the horizon while enjoying high-quality wine made from Santorini grapes. The Nykteri (a white wine) was especially good. Book reservations well in advance online, or call the number listed on their website.
Santos Winery: Much larger than Venetsanos Winery, Santos Winery offers sweeping views of the caldera and nearby islands. The wrap-around patio gives ample seating choice no matter the time of day you go. While I went here during the afternoon, sunset is also a popular time. Their cheese plates are exceptional!
Travel tip #3: Compared to Athens and cities in mainland Greece, Santorini is much more expensive. Be sure to budget accordingly. Also, be prepared to make reservations at more popular restaurants and taverns, especially during peak season.
Transportation & Accommodation
Santorini is approximately 200 kilometers (120 miles) away from Athens, which translates to a half hour flight or a 5-hour high-speed ferry journey from the city. Santorini Airport is an international airport; you can find direct flights to and from Santorini from several major European cities during high season. In winter, most flights to Santorini go through Athens. The airport is only a 15–20 minute drive from Fira, which is Santorini’s main town.
Once you’re on the island, you’ll want to rent a car, ATV, or scooter. Cars are more comfortable than ATVs, but they do require an international license to acquire. There are several car rental companies just outside Santorini Airport. Or, you can call ahead to reserve a vehicle. Most cars in Greece are manual, so be prepared for that or to pay more for an automatic. If you rent an ATV, be careful with your speed as you drive around the island because they easily flip on turns. The perk to renting an ATV or scooter over a car is that they are easier to park in crowded areas.
Accommodation in Santorini varies depending on location, with BnB’s, hotels, and apartments all being common choices. Look into Fira for budget options and to be near nightlife. Oía is your place for high-end accommodation and sunsets. Alternatively, Firostefani and Imerovigli have similar sunset and caldera views with fewer crowds. If you just want to relax by the beach, stay in Perissa, Perivolos, or Kamari. Overall, book accommodation well in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak season.
Travel tip #4: 3 or 4 days is ample time to enjoy what Santorini has to offer. You can always spend more time here, simply relaxing, eating, and taking cooking classes, but 3-4 days will give you enough time to leisurely explore the island without getting bored.
Climate
Santorini has hot, dry summers and mild to cool, wet winters. July and August are the hottest months in Santorini, with the temperature reaching 86°F (30°C) maximum. December and January are the coldest, with average temperatures of about 55°F (13°C). June through September are peak season because the weather is incredibly nice. Pack a light jacket during these months, as it can get windy any time and nights can be cool. As a Cyclades Island, Santorini tends to get very windy throughout the year. Winter sees much more wind than summer—January and February are the worst, August also gets a fair amount—which can cancel ferries and tours. The best times to visit are mid-May and early October, as the weather is warm and sunny but the crowds are much thinner.
