Santorini highlights: The 12 best travel tips for your holiday

The rising sun illuminates the rugged landscape of the treeless island, where white sugar cube houses in velvety tones are spread as far as the eye can see. In the morning light, Santorini is still peaceful and sleepy. If it weren’t for the hundreds of other visitors with whom you have to share this island beauty, you would probably stay here forever.

“Santorini enchants at first glance and is considered the postcard motif of Greece.”

Even in the low season, you won’t find the original Greek flair, the island has already become too cosmopolitan. After all, it is a bit quieter in Santorini in spring and autumn and you don’t share the beautiful places with so many other holidaymakers.

Whether a trip to the Cycladic island is worthwhile for you and which ones Santorini sights and places to discover on the island, you will learn in this article:

Is a holiday in Santorini worth it?

From the highest peak of the island, there is no longer any sign of the hustle and bustle further down. During a hike in the early morning hours through the hinterland or along the caldera rim, you will be enchanted by the unique volcanic island. When you enter Fira and Oia, the idyll is over.

Unfortunately, this is also the catch, which is often pointed out in the popular islands of Greece Finds. Mass tourism literally makes the shiny façade crumble. Santorini’s airport and ferry pier are bursting at the seams in summer. Thousands of tourists push their way through the alleys and the sunset becomes a mass spectacle.

So it is not surprising that plagued locals of Oia put up numerous signs asking for respect for their privacy. Houses of worship are also often used as a “climbing castle” for selfie-mad tourists.

None of them wants a second Disneyland in Europe, even if some visitors behave as if Santorini were an amusement park and the entrance fee is already paid when entering the island.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the main towns, you can rent a car or scooter and explore the sprawling hinterland. Off the beaten track, you go in search of traces of the lost identity of Santorini and is always enchanted by the impressive volcanic backdrop.

#1 Hike from Fira to Oia

A Santorini day hike along the impressive crater rim is ideal to get a first impression of the island. The panoramas along the entire route are simply magnificent! Therefore, remember to have enough space on your camera’s memory card.

The entire hike from Fira to Oia, including short detours, measures about 14 km and you will be on the road for about five hours, depending on your speed. Sturdy shoes, headgear and sufficient water belong in your luggage.

We recommend that you start early due to the midday heat. Spend the siesta in one of Imerovigli’s cafes and taverns before arriving in Oia in the late afternoon. The picture-book place is beautifully illuminated in the evening light and offers countless photo opportunities.

Fira and Firostefani

Start of our tour away from the crowds is in Fira, the capital of Santorini, also spelled Thira. Fira is located on the edge of the caldera and has over 1,600 inhabitants. At the entrance to the village there is a parking lot in the free parking lot of Fira (parking lot 1).

Head towards the town hall (Greek: Dimarchio) and the city park. From there you will get to the chapel of Agios Minas and the beginning of the crater rim path. Above the cobbled street sits the magnificent episcopal church of Ypapanti of Fira.

The alleys of Fira, with their countless souvenir stalls and shops, are more like a lively bazaar. You will usually look in vain for an island idyll here. Behind the Fira cable car, which connects the cruise port with the town, the Nomikou Trail continues along the crater rim to the neighboring village of Firostefani.

Here you will discover the beautiful Santorini Church Virgin Mary, one of the most photographed motifs in Santorini. You can catch the church with its bell tower (Three Bells of Fira) from the overlying and often very populated vantage point.

In Diverso Café by the way, we had a delicious breakfast at the square of the 25th of March (25is Martiou) in Fira before the long hiking stage. You can choose from baguettes, various omelets and, of course, Greek yoghurt with honey. So be sure to check it out!

Imerovigli and Skaros Rock

From Firostefani it is still 1.5 km to Imerovigli. Shortly before the village at the Authors Cave Houses you have a breathtaking view of a white sea of countless modern cave houses and a turquoise blue sparkling pool landscape.

In Imerovigli it is worth taking a detour to the Skaros Rock. The mighty red rock protrudes unmistakably into the caldera. On the outlying promontory once stood the fortress Kastro of Santorini, built by the Venetians in the 13th century.

The summit of Skaros Rock should only be climbed by sport climbers. If you follow the path along Skaros Rock to the top, you will discover a little below, the lonely Theoskepasti Church. For us, a place of silence on the otherwise lively island.

You are not so fit on foot? Then we have a Santorini hiking tip for you: Simply divide the long hike into several stages. From Fira to Imerovigli, for example, it is only about 2.5 km and a 30-minute walk. This is much more relaxed, and you can still enjoy the great panorama.

Behind Imerovigli the route leads along the cliffs into a less populated area. After the last hotel complex, the path crosses again down to the chapel of San Antonio with its beautiful bell tower.

The church square invites you to take a short break, where you can also spread out a small picnic. A wonderful place to stay, quiet and away from the tourist hustle and bustle.

Sunset in Oia

The path to Oia continues to wind through uninhabited territory and along bizarre volcanic cliffs that shine in a wide variety of colors. Here the wild past of the island is revealed. There is still an active volcano under Santorini. More about this in our article: Greece Earthquake

Behind Imerovigli is the church of Profitis Iliad a great photo motif and a few kilometers further on follows with the Panagia Chapel another photogenic gem. From here, the last stage of the path begins down to the village of Oia.

Return with the Santorini public bus from the bus station of Oia. Plan longer waiting times, especially in the summer months, because the buses are usually completely overcrowded, especially after sunset.

A one-way bus ride back to Fira costs €1.80. Alternatively, you pay for a taxi from Oia to Fira at least 20 €.

#2 The Akrotiri Peninsula

In the very southwest of Santorini lies the Akrotiri Peninsula, which can be explored wonderfully on your own by rental car. In some places, Santorini is still quite original and has one or two highlights in store.

From the north side of the peninsula you also have a magnificent view of the caldera of Santorini with its islands of Nea Kameni, Palia Kameni, Aspronisi and Thirassia.

The lighthouse at Cape Akrotiri

At the southwestern tip of the island lies the bright white Akrotiri Lighthouse (Faros Akrotiriou), which is a popular destination, especially at sunset.

The site belongs to the Greek Navy and is fenced, so the lighthouse itself is not accessible. Nevertheless, from the offshore cliffs near the Santorini Lighthouse you can enjoy a fantastic view.

Rock formations of Kokkinopetra

Not only an interesting highlight for geologists is the Kokkinopetra close to Red Rock Villas. The red stone is a curious coastal formation that provides insights into the volcanic origin of Santorini. The rock layers here shine in a wide variety of colors and form a great contrast to the deep blue Aegean Sea.

Shortly before the Red Rock Villas turn left down a gravel road to the quiet Paralia Gialos Beach. Before the first bend, a trail leads to the bizarre rock formations of Kokkinopetra.

Mesa Pigadia Beach

The long stretch of beach with its black volcanic rock is usually not quite as busy as its “red counterpart” in the east. At Mesa Pigadia Beach there is a hip beach bar or a rustic fish tavern to choose from. Parasols and sunbeds are also provided.

Red Beach (Kokkini Ammos)

A popular pilgrimage destination on Santorini is the coast of Red Beach. The volcanic beach typical of the island is embedded in a spectacular rocky backdrop of red rock.

Due to rockfall and debris, Red Beach has actually been closed to visitors for quite some time. However, this does not seem to bother anyone. With sufficient distance, you can explore the Santorini coast by Sea Kayak Tour, bookable e.g. via GetYourGuide*:

➲ To the sea kayak tour incl. lunch*

In summer, numerous holidaymakers lie down with their beach towels directly under the brittle cliffs. You are a little further back, at the local beach bar more comfortable and above all “safer”.

Personally, we didn’t find the beach, which was contaminated with seaweed and garbage, particularly attractive. For us, the Red Beach from afar a beautiful photo motif. On the other hand, you can confidently save yourself a walk on the beach between crowds in summer.

Akrotiri Archaeological Site

Just before Red Beach are the famous excavations of Akrotiri. For history buffs, it is worth visiting the buried island settlement, which is also known as the “Pompeii of the Aegean”.

That excavation site of Akrotiri covers 10,000 square meters and is completely covered by a weather-protected hall. On landscaped paths you cross the complex in a kind of tour.

In pre-Christian times, a highly developed civilization lived here in multi-storey houses with bathrooms and sewerage. Through the eruption of the Santorini volcano between 1,630 and 1,600 BC, the city was buried under a metre-thick layer of pumice.

Around 1967, archaeologists discovered the settlement and, among many other things, the really impressive frescoes of Akrotiri. Some of Akrotiri’s finds, including murals, are exhibited in the Prehistoric Museum of Fira.

Information boards provide information about individual components. However, we recommend booking a guide who can explain the tour of Akrotiri more clearly. You can easily reserve tickets online via GetYourGuide*:

➲ To the online ticket*

• Summer opening hours of Akrotiri: daily 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. | Admission: 20 €, red. 10 €
• Winter opening hours of Akrotiri: daily 8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. | Admission: 10 €, red. 5 €

The village of Akrotiri

The small settlement at the beginning of the peninsula invites you to take a short walk. In the middle of the maze of alleys lie remains of the old Venetian Castle of Akrotiri, unfortunately there is a lack of information boards.

In and around the Akrotiri village numerous holiday homes and apartments have settled around it. A stopover is worth the cozy Café Akrothiri below the castle. In an idyllic atmosphere, delicious sweet and savoury snacks are served, as well as good coffee.

#3 Walk through Megalochori

The pretty village of Megalochori in the southwest of Santorini has been particularly dressed up for holidaymakers. The beautiful white bell towers that span the cobbled streets are a popular photo motif.

On the Megalochori village square high-priced taverns are waiting for customers. The idyllic ambience overgrown with plane trees and colourful bougainvillea is part of the price.

Worth seeing are the underground cave dwellings of Megalochori, which are opened by residents for viewing. They give an insight into how people lived here until the 17th century.

From the main alley at the “Leather Studio” a path leads to the “Underground Caves”. The private operators of the cave dwellings would be happy to receive a donation.

#4 Descent to Plaka

You can get a vague idea of the original Santorini in the uninhabited hamlet of Plaka. Opposite Megalochori, a narrow trail leads down to the coast. The distance from the crater rim to Plaka measures about 700 meters and takes 25 minutes.

First you pass a pumice landscape with a rock window. Directly below it shines the bell tower of the chapel of Agios Nikolaos. From an offshore headland you have a wonderful view of the caldera.

A steep path leads steadily downhill along bizarre coastal formations to the Plaka Chapel. On the way you will get an insight into old cave dwellings, some of which were left behind with their furnishings. Down on the coast are the houses of Plaka, presumably former warehouses or boat rooms.

A rock window on the coast offers a nice photo opportunity. Below the mighty cliffs still lie the former Thermal Springs of Plaka, enclosed in an old bathhouse.

Even in the high season, you will usually only meet a few anglers and hikers here. For us it was a quiet refuge on the otherwise so touristy island.

#5 Emporio and the Santorini windmills

The Cycladic village of Emporio in the south of Santorini enchants with its winding labyrinth of alleys and has been able to retain its originality to this day. Except for midsummer, it is still quite quiet here.

A special highlight is the Venetian residential tower Pirgos in the upper town centre, which is waiting to be discovered. People still live inside the small fortress today and you feel like you’ve been transported back to the Middle Ages as you walk through.

So far, Emporio has not yet been developed for tourism, so you can enjoy the peace and quiet far away from mass tourism. Hardly any bus tour gets lost in this beautiful Santorini village.

Sit in one of the quaint tavernas you pass on your walk through the alleys. The atmosphere in the To Kafenedaki tou Emporio and in the Old Barber Shopis traditional and authentic.

At the entrance to Emporio there are eight old windmills on a ridge, most of which only stumps remain. Follow the road past a restaurant to the Prophet Ilias chapel. The view of the Akrotiri Peninsula at sunset from up here is simply magnificent!

#6 Beautiful beaches in Santorini

The beaches of Santorini due to their volcanic origin, are mainly made of dark lava rock and are usually located on the east side of the island, where the coast slopes gently into the sea.

The wide and long black sand beaches of Kamari and Perissa are heavily frequented in summer and there is one beach lounger after the other. Countless taverns and beach bars cater to crowds of holidaymakers.

Our personal beach favorite in the south of Santorini is the Vlychada Beach (also Vlichada Beach). In front of a bizarre rock face, the dark sandy beach is embedded in a beautiful backdrop.

In the front area there is a beach bar and a sunbed rental. The back area is natural and a bit quieter. Behind Vlychada Beach is also the Tomato Industrial Museum of Santorini. The region is also great to explore by e-bike, off-road quad or horse. Click on the links to learn more about the GetYourGuide* tours:

➲ To the guided horseback riding excursion*

➲ To the quad tour in the hinterland*

➲ To the organized e-bike tour*

One of the most beautiful Santorini beaches in the north is for us the Beach at Cape Koloumpos (Cape Columbo). The backdrop in front of a mighty rock face is spectacular, too.

The dark pebble beach is natural and has no operator. Nudism is tolerated here. Access is at the Soulis Apartments via a beaten path down to the coast.

By the way, the only “bright” beach of Santorini is the White Beach on the Akrotiri Peninsula. However, this can only be reached by excursion boat.

#7 In the alleys of Pyrgos

The charming town in the centre of the island is a real Santorini highlight. Like white sugar cubes, the houses of Pyrgos are stacked up a slope. From the highest village on the island the view widens over the crater rim to the far north to Oia.

Pyrgos was once the island’s capital due to its elevated location. From here, pirates could be spotted at an early stage. Today, the village enjoys a great reputation not least because of its typical Cycladic architecture increasing popularity among tourists.

Winding alleys lead up to the Kasteli Quarter, a medieval fortification wall. Within the walls are quaint houses, old churches and chapels and a cozy wine bar.

The centerpiece is the Agios Georgios church with its beautiful blue dome and bell tower. The roof is accessible via steps and offers you a wonderful view of Pyrgos and the rest of the island.

On the main street of Pyrgos there is in the traditional Pyrgos Bakery delicious freshly baked bread and sweet pieces for the hunger in between. For many holidaymakers and locals, this is the best bakery on Santorini.

You can also enjoy a great view from the highest mountain of Santorini, the Profitis Ilias with its 568 meters. From Pyrgos, an asphalt road leads up to the monastery, from where the view widens over the whole island. Worthwhile both at sunrise and sunset!

#8 The ancient city of Old Thera

More than 20 narrow serpentines stretch from Kamari to the Mountain of Mesa Vouno up to a spectacular field of ruins. The adventurous journey is not only worthwhile for history freaks. Nature lovers and those seeking peace and quiet will also get their money’s worth in the archaeological site of Alt-Thera (also Alt-Thira).

The view from the 360 m high complex of the coastal towns of Kamari and Perissa and the neighbouring mountain Profitis Ilias is breathtaking. In spring, the entire excavation site of Old Thera dotted with wildflowers.

Several centuries after the devastating volcanic eruption on Santorini, Doric immigrants from the Sparta region settled on this mountain saddle around 1,000 BC.

The city was inhabited by various peoples, including Romans and Byzantines, until 726 AD, when another volcanic eruption buried Old Thera under pumice.

Among other things, numerous ruined houses as well as temple foundations, a small amphitheater, the remains of an agora (market hall) and relief images embedded in the rock can still be seen today.

The excavation site of Old Thera in the southeast of Santorini extends over the entire mountain saddle and is very extensive. You should plan at least two hours for a tour. The views from the top of the mountain are spectacular, including the neighboring island of Anafi.

• Opening hours of Old Thera: daily 8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. | Admission: 10 €, red. 5 €

#9 The wine of Santorini

The island of Santorini is one of the most famous wine-growing regions of Greece. Numerous winegrowers cultivate famous grape varieties, such as the “Assyrtiko”, on a total of 1,200 hectares of volcanic soil.

In addition to the striking White wine Assyrtiko few red wines are also grown. Unique to Santorini is the special position of the vines. They are held flat on the ground in a kind of braiding system and sometimes look like baskets or rings (koulouri).

This low cultivation method provides protection from the wind and creates a natural canopy that protects the vines from too much sunlight. In addition, the nocturnal condensation can be optimally collected and passed on to the roots. Today, typical viticulture can be visited at many Santorini Wineries.

➲ To the guided wine tour (GetYourGuide)*

A high-quality souvenir is the island’s sweet dessert wine. The Vinsanto from Santorini is known worldwide. It is made exclusively from white grapes that are dried in the sun in a net on pumice for 14 days. The grapes are then pressed and stored in oak barrels.

By the way, wine tastings on Santorini are subject to a fee at almost all wineries. Regardless of whether you buy a bottle of wine afterwards or not.

Visit to the Estate Argyros winery

We visited on of the oldest wineries on the island and tasted the fine wines there. The Argyros Estate is located south of the village of Exo Gonia in Episkopi.

It was founded in 1903 by the Argyros family and is now run by the fourth generation. On over 160 hectares, the largest privately owned winery grows local varieties such as Assyrtiko (white), Aidani (white) and Mavrotragano (red).

The family owns some of the oldest vines on the island, which are over 200 years old. The Argyros Winery is a pioneer in Vinsanto production and offers three different varieties that differ in their maturation time (4, 12, 20 years).

We deliberately decided to visit the Argyros Estate because this winery only offers guided tours for small groups and private individuals and no large tourist buses arrive here. The atmosphere in the modern premises is familiar and the tour was very personal.

At Argyros, a one-hour guided tour followed by a tasting of four wines and a small platter of appetizers costs €15 p.p. The tasting of 7 wines and a large snack platter with local and Greek specialties costs €40 p.p.

If you are interested in a guided tour at Argyros winery, you should definitely announce yourself in advance by phone and make an appointment. This usually guarantees a smooth handling of the tour and tasting.

The red and white wines of the Estate Range start from €20 per bottle. The three “Atlantis” wines from Argyros are so-called “blends” and cost €12 per bottle. The noble Vinsanto starts at €30 (aged in barrels for 4 years) and costs €78 after 20 years of maturation. Here you can find more information about the winery: Estate Agyros

Opening hours summer: daily 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.Opening hours winter (Nov.-Mar.): Mon.-Sat. 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

#10 Oia: Santorini’s Picture-Book Village

Millions of people make a pilgrimage to Oia every year to see the special Sunset of Santorini. Even in winter, you can expect numerous people to clap in an exemplary manner as soon as the red fireball has sunk behind the sea.

The most beautiful (and most frequented) view is from the Londsa Castle of Oia, the ruins of a Byzantine fortress. When the warm evening sun bathes the cave houses and windmills of Oia in a warm light, the scenery is truly gorgeous!

The Sunrise from Oia is something to be proud of, too. The morning light beautifully illuminates the sea of houses of the village with its blue church domes and delights the hearts of photographers. The best thing about it is that you can expect much less rush.

Oia (pronounced “Ia”) is a real picture-book village with its typical Cycladic alleys, white cubes of houses and a promenade made of marble, which every holidaymaker visits at least once during his Santorini holiday. If you are looking for an unforgettable experience, you can even hire a private photographer (e.g. via GetYourGuide*):

➲ To the day tour incl. photo spots*

➲ To the professional photo shoot*

The fact is: You will find peace and quiet in Oia in summer at most in the very early morning hours or in winter. Then not so many holidaymakers and cruise tourists populate the village of 500 souls.

The Vitrin Crêperie is a pretty little Café-bar in the heart of Oia. If you’re early and get a seat on the terrace, you can enjoy the sunset here with a cool drink and delicious crepes. The staff is very friendly and the prices are surprisingly moderate for the hotspot Oia.

A nice cozy spot a little away from the hustle and bustle in Oia is the Ammoudi Port at the foot of the village. In the summer months, you can stop at one of the fish taverns or walk along the harbor pier.

#11 The neighboring island of Thirassia

In the shadow of the large island of Santorini lies the tranquil island Thirassia (also Thirasia) on the other side of the caldera. In contrast to Santorini, tourism here is hardly developed so far.

On a day Trip from Oia you will get a first impression of the original neighboring island. The small port of Korfos is usually crowded in the summer months. We therefore recommend that you take the stairs up to the upper village of Manolas.

From up here you can enjoy a great view over the entire caldera and stop at one of the two taverns in the main town.

If you want to spend more time on the quiet island with its 150 inhabitants, you should use the regular ferries and book one of the few guest rooms on Thirassia in advance.

What there is to discover on the small island, our blogger colleague Silvia describes wonderfully on her travel blog Sheep and Ouzo: Thirassia Island – The Little Happiness of Silence

#12 Excursion to the Nea Kameni volcano

If you choose the Volcanism of the island archipelago then pack sturdy shoes and take a boat trip to the youngest volcanic island of Nea Kameni.

The uninhabited island lies in the middle of the caldera and is a dark pile of solidified lava and still active craters. Behind it rises Santorini’s small neighboring island of Thirassia.

Several excursion boats travel from Fira to Nea Kameni every day. The largest dome, which stands at 172 metres high, takes about 25 minutes to climb up. In summer, you have to share the narrow paths along bizarre volcanic landscapes with countless other tourists. You can book tickets for the tours online via GetYourGuide*:

➲ To Nea-Kameni and Thriassia Tours*

Sulphurous smoke escapes from the crater rims and is evidence of the volcanic activity of Nea Kameni. The last eruption occurred around 1950.

Some excursion boats stop at “Hot Springs” on the way back. In the high-iron and sulphur-rich Thermal Springs of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni you can take a warm bath with numerous other holidaymakers. However, you should avoid light-colored swimwear and jewelry because of discoloration.

More travel tips for Santorini

Beautiful guided tours in Santorini

Via GetYourGuide* you can find popular Santorini Tours and Excursions from local operators on site. Click on the links for details such as tour availability and prices:

➲ To the catamaran tour incl. BBQ*

➲ To the island tour with Oia sunset*

➲ To the sailing trip to Nea Kameni*

→ Here you can find more guided Santorini tours: Santorini Tours & Excursions

Hiking in Santorini

Despite the mass tourism, Santorini is ideal for extended hikes in the hinterland. Away from the hustle and bustle, you will get to know the island from its original side. In the case of an extended hiking in Santorini you will get to know local winegrowers and fava bean producers.

→ You can find a very good summary of the best hikes here: alexgettinglost

Restaurant recommendations in Santorini

To Paradosiako (The Traditional) in Messaria

That village of Messaria in the interior of the island is firmly in the hands of locals and so you will still find some Greek taverns here, where you can feast really well at reasonable prices.

We enjoyed delicious food in the rustic tavern To Paradosiako eaten. Here, mom is still behind the stove and does magic delicious Santorini- Fava and other Greek specialties. The staff was very friendly and the value for money for Santorini was great!

Also excellent, but closed in November, is the tavern Ta Postalia tou Aigaiouin Messaria.

Metaxi Mas in Exo Gonia

Already discovered by tourism and therefore very popular is the rustic tavern Metaxi Mas in the village of Exo Gonia. In the small cave house, the ambience is super cozy. Since there are only a few tables, we had to reserve in advance even in November.

The prices are high (main courses from €11), but still justified for the quality and presentation of the dishes. Very tasty vegetarian food and good house wine.

Hotel tips for the island of Santorini

Santorini is considered one of the most popular islands in Greece. The density of available hotels is correspondingly high, but so is their price level. The closer to the crater rim, the more expensive the accommodation. On Booking.com* you can find suitable accommodation and check availability and prices:

➲ To beautiful hotels on the island*

The highest accommodation prices are recorded in the towns of Fira, Imerovigli and Oia. Of course, they have the most exclusive location. An overnight stay in a cave hotel with its own pool is a special highlight for the honeymoon.

Hotel tip for Santorini: Numerous cruise ships anchor in front of the island’s capital every day, blowing vast quantities of musty exhaust fumes in the direction of Fira and Firostefani. On the other hand, there is less particulate matter pollution in Imverovigli and Oia. You should definitely take it into account.

→ About Booking.com* you will find many places to stay on Santorini and you can check prices here:

In the holiday resorts of Kamari and Perissa there are also numerous accommodations in the east. Kamari is dominated by package hotels. It should be noted that the village of Kamari is located directly in the landing lane of the airport. If you book a hotel there, you have to expect aircraft noise.

Perissa, on the other hand, accommodates mainly individualists and young backpackers in its numerous apartments and studios. In the coastal town there is also a youth hostel and a campsite.

→ Here you can find the best hotel deals and travel packages for Santorini:

• Package holiday via Check24*
• Package holidays via HolidayCheck*

Here we stayed in Santorini

Santorini Holiday Apartment,ExoGonia

At the lovely Dimitris and his family, we have a modern apartment via Airbnb in which we felt completely comfortable. The town of Exo Gonia is very centrally located in the interior of the island and is therefore an ideal starting point to explore Santorini by rental car.

→ View apartment on Airbnb here & check prices: Apartment Exo Gonia

Getting around Santorini

Santorini Car Rental

If you want to explore the island of Santorini extensively, we recommend a rental car on Santorini for a few days. This way you can also get to remote beaches and places away from the hustle and bustle. Via portals such as Discover Cars* you can easily compare the individual car rental offers for Santorini:

➲ To the rental car booking*

We rented a small car at Kronos Rent A Car in the new port of Fira and were super satisfied with the rental company. Even at 5 a.m., the process was quick and uncomplicated. The vehicle was a new year and was in good condition. The staff were very easy going and friendly.

Kronos is also one of the few car rental companies that are open during the winter season. In November, we paid a very fair price of €15 per day.

→ Current prices and more information about our car rental provider in Santorini can be found here: Kronos Rent A Car, Athinios Port Santorini

Scooters and quads can also be rented on Santorini, but they should have some power (over 150 cc), otherwise you will have difficulties with the sometimes steep gradients.

Buses in Santorini

The public bus network of KTEL Santorini is also well developed and connects all villages on Santorini. Even though this is the cheapest way to get around, the buses are usually completely overcrowded in the summer months and you have to plan for longer waiting times of up to 80 minutes.

→ Current bus timetables can be found at: Santorini Bus

Donkeys as a tourist attraction

From a ride with a mule or Donkey on Santorini we personally advise against it. Even though donkeys are pack animals, it is sometimes an imposition for the animals to drag very obese people up 580 slippery steps up the crater rim in sweltering heat.

The animals stand in the blazing sun all day long, sometimes without water and food. Chafed skin due to saddle girths and crooked spines are not uncommon among donkeys and mules. If you care about the welfare of these animals, then ignore the pushy donkey drivers at the harbour and just take the gondola up to Fira.

How to get to the island of Santorini

The Cycladic island of Santorini is best reached by direct flight to Santorini from Germany. During the season, Santorini is served by Düsseldorf, Munich, Frankfurt, Cologne and Stuttgart, among others. The flight duration is about three hours. It is recommended to take an airport transfer in advance (View on GetYourGuide*).

→ Skyscanner* allows you to view available flights to Santorini:

➲ To cheap flights to the island*

Since the island is very manageable, the transfer times to Santorini hotels are usually short. In winter, there are no direct flights from Germany. Then you will change to a small plane from Olympic Air in Athens.

Alternatively, you can reach Santorini as part of a Greece Island Hopping also by car ferry (approx. 7.5 h) or the high-speed catamaran (approx. 4.5 h) from Piraeus. Arrival is at the new Athinios Port underneath of Fira. You can find suitable ferry connections through our partner Ferryhopper*research:

➲ To cheap ferry tickets*

Especially in the summer months, the Port of Fira due to the great rush of holidaymakers at the seams. Therefore, plan enough time for arrival and departure and get your ticket well in advance.

Many holidaymakers also travel by cruise ship to Santorini. Shuttle boats take visitors to the old port of Fira. A cable car (€10 per trip) is available here to take holidaymakers to the crater rim.

→ All information and travel reports about the Cyclades archipelago can be found at: Cyclades Islands

Bookmark this post on Pinterest!