A white, blue and orange dream on the edge of the caldera
Ranked by interestingness score, based on real experience
Santorini's highest bay and best kept secret. While tourists mingle in Oia, local life flows in Pyrgos. The medieval castle, narrow streets, and Profitis Ilias Monastery await on the hill. The island view from here is even better than Oia — you see both the caldera and the other side of the sea. The ceremony here at Easter leaves a mark.
Pompeii of the Aegean. City of the Minoan civilization, buried by a volcanic eruption around 1600 BC. Multi-storey buildings, frescoes, sewage system — 3,600 years ago, people were practicing sustainable urbanism here. Covered area, you will be protected from the heat. Many frescoes are exhibited in the Historical Museum in Fira.
The most beautiful walk in Santorini: 10 km along the caldera rim from Fira to Oia, approximately 3-4 hours. Every step along the way passes through a different landscape, blue-domed churches, Imerovigli and Firostefani. Start early in the morning, take water and a hat, apply sunscreen. When you arrive in Oia, watch the sunset and take a bus or taxi. The route is clear but the markings are weak, keep Google Maps open.
They say it is the most famous sunset in the world, they are not exaggerating. Hundreds of thousands of people gather at the edge of the caldera to watch the sun set over the Aegean and then applaud — yes, applaud the sun. If you go out of season, you may be able to get a seat, but in July-August, go 2 hours in advance to get a seat. Oia Castle is the most popular spot, and the Lioyerma terrace and windmills a little further are also good alternatives.
The castle ruins from the Venetian period are now the most popular spot for sunset watching. Not much remains of the castle itself, but its location makes up for it all — 360-degree views of the caldera and sea. The clock tower and windmills are among the photo spots. Go early or arrive 1.5 hours before sunset, otherwise you won't find a place to stand.
Ancient city dating back to the 9th century BC, on top of Mesa Vouno mountain. It can be reached from Kamari or Perissa by taxi or on foot (30-40 minutes uphill). Above you see ruins from the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine periods together. The biggest reward is the view — you can see the sea on both sides. Not crowded, peaceful.
The capital and busiest point of Santorini. Rows of cafes, shops, churches on the edge of the caldera — a postcard view with blue domes here. Nightlife is also liveliest here. It's not as polished as Oia, but it's more real, livelier and more affordable. You can go down to the old port via cable car or donkey.
The most organized beach in Santorini. Black volcanic sand, clear water, the silhouette of Mesa Vouno mountain in the background. Umbrella-sunbed sets cost 10-15 EUR, restaurants and bars are lined along the beach. It is more comfortable and family friendly compared to the luxurious atmosphere of Oia. The coastal road comes alive at night, there is even an open-air cinema.
Active volcano island in the middle of the caldera. You can go there by boat tour from Fira. You walk up to the top (20 minutes). There are hot vapors and the smell of sulfur in the crater. Walking on an active volcano gives a strange excitement. On the way back, there is a swimming break at the hot springs in Palea Kameni — a natural hot spring in the middle of the sea.
Beach with black-red sand under red volcanic cliffs. The view is surreal — you feel like you've landed on Mars. It's a 10-minute walk from Akrotiri, but the path is slippery and rocky, sports shoes are a must. Umbrellas and sun loungers are limited on the beach, bring your own. It's free, but transportation is a bit of an adventure. Going by boat is a safer alternative.
What will you do from hour to hour, from morning to evening?
Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli and sunset
Walk along the edge of the caldera, take photos of the blue-domed churches, and visit the Megaro Gyzi Museum. The morning is calm.
The frescoes and finds from Akrotiri are here. Small but impressive.
Budget friendly, satisfying, fast. In the center of Fira.
From Fira he walked northwards along the caldera. Stop in Imerovigli for a view of Skaros Rock.
Taste Assyrtiko and Vinsanto in the view of the caldera. 4-6 types.
Have dinner watching the sunset by the caldera. Fava + tomatokeftedes + fish.
Akrotiri, Red Beach, Vlychada
Pompeii of the Aegean. With the top covered, you'll be protected from the heat. 3,600 year old city ruins.
10 minute walk from Akrotiri. Red rocks, black sand. Take water and a hat.
Fresh fish in Vlychada port. Where the locals go.
White volcanic rocks that resemble the surface of the moon. A different Santorini.
The highest bay of the island, medieval castle, panoramic view. Away from tourists.
Champion of local flavors in Exo Gonia. Reservation required.
Volcano tour, Oia exploration, sunset finale
Go to the volcano island by boat, walk to the crater, and swim in the natural hot spring on the way back.
Fresh octopus and fish in the fisherman bay below Oia.
White houses, blue domes, narrow streets, galleries and jewelry shops. Stop by Atlantis Books.
Come 1.5 hours in advance to get a seat. The world's most famous sunset begins.
Cheer on the sun, then have a cocktail at Sunset by Volcanos.
Say goodbye to Santorini at PK Cocktail Bar or Tango Bar.
One week holiday plan with sightseeing tours
Arrival, settlement, first encounter with the caldera
Transfer from the airport or port, drop off at the hotel. First walk in the streets of Fira.
Fast, satisfying, budget-friendly. Ideal for the first day.
Learn the history of the island and see the findings of Akrotiri.
First landscape exploration along the caldera rim.
First evening with caldera view. Fava + fresh fish.
Ancient history, Red Beach, Vlychada
Go early in the morning, when it's calm and cool. 3,600 year old city.
Swimming under red rocks. Water and a hat are required.
Fresh fish in Vlychada port, local prices.
White cliffs that resemble the moon's surface are a photo paradise.
Another winery with a view of the caldera, wine tasting.
Santorini's most popular tavern, local delicacies.
Nea Kameni, hot springs, Thirassia
Full day boat tour. Volcano walk, natural hot spring, lunch on the small island of Thirassia.
Rest after the boat tour.
Assyrtiko tasting with a view of the caldera.
Fresh fish + appetizers + house wine.
Oia exploration, gallery, Ammoudi, sunset
Blue domes, white houses, galleries and boutiques. The morning is calm.
It is on the list of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Drink coffee, read a book.
Descend the stairs and eat grilled octopus and fish by the sea.
In the afternoon, take photos from the other end of Oia and visit the Naval Maritime Museum.
Oia Castle sunset + Sunset by Volcanos.
One last walk and dinner in the quiet night of Oia.
Beach day and ancient history
Climb to the top of Mesa Vouno, 9th century BC ruins, double-sided sea views.
Soak up the sun on the black sand, rent a sun lounger, and have lunch at the beach restaurant.
Watch movies under the stars on summer nights. A unique experience.
Seafood along the beach, relaxed atmosphere.
Mountain bay, wine tour, local life
Medieval castle, panorama, Profitis Ilias Monastery.
Family business, organic wines, friendly atmosphere.
Fine dining experience, tasting menu, local products.
Far from the tourist scene, traditional architecture, hidden courtyards.
Fava and appetizers with caldera view in Firostefani.
PK Cocktail Bar + Koo Club. Santorini night.
Last shopping, Perissa, last sunset
Wine, olive oil, ceramics — complete the souvenirs.
Kamari's sister beach, black sand, calmer. Last sea pleasure.
Last Greek lunch, on the beach.
Firostefani - Imerovigli, last caldera view.
Last Santorini sunset from Imerovigli or Firostefani.
Last dinner with a view of the caldera.
From local classics to hype places
Premium Santorini's most famous winery and restaurant at the same time. Wine tasting with caldera view 15-25 EUR (4-6 varieties). Assyrtiko, Nykteri and Vinsanto are the signature wines of the island. There are also tasting menus with food pairings. You understand what volcanic soil does to grapes by tasting it. Arrive early or make a reservation as tables fill up at sunset.
Local Classic A favorite tavern of the locals, in Exo Gonia bay, away from the touristic centres. Dark version of Greek cuisine — lamb stew, melitzanosalata, local cheeses, the island's own capers. Reservations are essential, especially for the evening. The quality to price ratio is the best in Santorini. Many people say they couldn't leave Santorini without going here.
Local Classic In the port of Vlychada, they take the fish from your side and put it on your table. Prices are half of Oia, taste is at the same level. Grilled shrimp, calamari, fresh fish — with fava and Santorini tomato salad. There aren't many tourists on the radar, locals and knowledgeable travelers are here. Plan ahead with Vlychada's lunar-like white cliffs.
Current Hype It's hard to find budget-friendly food in Santorini, but Lucky's is your savior. Souvlaki with pita 3.5-5 EUR, gyros, chicken sis — fast, filling, delicious. Located in the center of Fira, also open at night. For those who do not want to pay 50 EUR for a restaurant with a caldera view, the address is clear.
Local Classic As its name says, it is a small family tavern specializing in fava. Santorini favas is different from other islands — the volcanic soil gives the yellow lentils a completely different taste. Tomatokeftedes (tomato meatballs), caper salad and homemade baklava are also delicious. You can sit on the terrace overlooking the caldera in the quiet part of Firostefani.
Premium Santorini's fine dining legend. He transforms the island's local products — white eggplant, Santorini tomatoes, fava, capers — into modern Greek cuisine. A delightful terrace view in Pyrgos, tasting menu between 90-130 EUR. You can have a wine pairing and discover Santorini's centuries-old grapes grown in volcanic soil. For the special night.
Current Hype A fish tavern built at the bottom of the sea in Ammoudi Bay, below Oia. You go down the stairs (or donkey), the tables are right by the water. You should eat freshly grilled octopus and island fish here — you can't call it a tourist trap, the fishermen bring it in the morning. It has a view at sunset, but the queue is long.
Entertainment from evening to morning
Premium Boutique cocktail bar on the caldera edge of Fira. Signature cocktails are between 12-18 EUR, and there are also special mixes made with Santorini wines. The atmosphere is calmer and more sophisticated than Koo — for those who want to chat and take in the views rather than dance. It's good at sunset and the lights are romantic at night.
Local Classic The bars overlooking the caldera in Fira are the places that stay open throughout the night and drink cocktails accompanied by Latin and world music. Its terrace has one of the best night views in Santorini. Even if you don't know how to dance at salsa nights, someone will take you out — that's the atmosphere. There is everyone from romantic couples to group friends.
Local Classic One of the oldest and friendliest bars in Fira. Mixed tourist-local crowd dancing to a mix of Greek and foreign music. Cocktail prices are below Santorini average, there is a happy hour. There is no caldera view but the atmosphere and energy is through the roof. There are live music nights on weekends.
Premium One of the best spots to watch the sunset in Oia with a cocktail. It is built on the edge of the caldera, close to the castle but more comfortable than the castle. Open until late at night, you experience the quiet night of Oia with chill-out music. For couples escaping from the party in Fira and those looking for a quiet night.
Current Hype The biggest nightclub in Santorini. Located in the center of Fira, it is the main address for summer nights with its terrace and indoor area overlooking the caldera. International DJs, thematic nights, cocktail bar. It starts to fill up after midnight, the crowd of holidaymakers is dense during the tour season. Entrance costs 10-20 EUR, drinks may be included.
Gift, local, premium
The most valuable souvenir of the island is the Assyrtiko wine bottle. Santo Wines can be purchased direct from wineries such as Venetsanos and Gavalas, but there is a wider selection at specialty wine shops in Fira. Vinsanto (sweet wine) is a special gift. Quality bottles can be found between 10-30 EUR. Be careful when packing — with good packaging.
Paintings, sculptures and photographs of local artists are exhibited in boutique galleries hidden in the narrow streets of Oia. Volcanic stone, seashells and silver embroideries are specially designed for Santorini in handmade jewelry shops. It's not cheap, but if you're looking for original pieces, it's the right place. Atlantis Books bookstore is a regular on the lists of the world's most beautiful bookstores.
More budget-friendly shopping options on the walking path behind Kamari beach. Beach clothes, sandals, ceramics, magnets and local food products. More comfortable prices compared to Fira and Oia. There are also ice cream shops and an open-air market in the evenings.
Jewelery shops, dress shops and souvenir shops line Fira's main street, Danezi Street and Gold Street. Everything is a bit touristy, but Santorini-themed ceramics, handmade sandals, olive oil soap and local wines are good gift options. Prices are more reasonable than Oia. There are shops open for bargaining, try it.
When to go, how to get there, city transportation, accommodation, budget and practical tips.
When you think of Santorini, the same image comes to everyone's mind: white houses, blue domes, orange sunset. One of the most shared frames on Instagram. But when you come here, you realize that photography is incapable of capturing reality - when you stand on the edge of the caldera and look at the deep blue Aegean below, when you see the silhouette of the volcano island on the opposite shore, when the wind ruffles your hair and your eyes are filled with tears... that's when you say "oh, this is really such a place."
Santorini is not actually an island, but a group of islands. A massive volcanic eruption in about 1600 BC collapsed the center of the island, forming today's caldera. That caldera — a giant crater filled with sea — is the source of all Santorini's beauty. The semicircular cliff to which the white houses cling is actually the side wall of that explosion. So you're standing on the remnant of a mighty volcano in that Instagram shot. This information takes the view to another dimension.
The population of the island is around 15-20 thousand in winter, but in summer the number of daily tourists easily exceeds this population. It is normal to walk shoulder to shoulder in Oia and to wait in line to find a table at caldera-side cafes in Fira. But there's a magic here: you know it's touristy, everyone knows, and yet you still fall under the influence. Because it is rare to find a place where nature and architecture combine so perfectly.
1.5-2 hours by plane from Istanbul and 45 minutes from Athens. There's also a ferry option from Athens — it takes 5-8 hours, but it's worth the time when you wake up in the middle of the Aegean and see Santorini on the horizon. Ferry ticket costs between 30-60 EUR, flight ticket costs 60-200 EUR depending on the season.
Santorini has its own stories when it comes to food. The volcanic soil gives a different flavor to everything that grows here. Santorini tomatoes are small, ugly, but a flavor bomb — tomatokeftedes (tomato meatballs) made from them are the signature dish of the island. Fava (yellow lentil puree) is not like this anywhere else, capers are the natural treasure of this place. Wine is a completely different matter: Assyrtiko white wine, obtained from centuries-old grape logs, is one of the most interesting volcanic wines in the world. Grapes are grown in the form of baskets called "kouloura" to protect them from the wind - there are no rows of vines that come to mind when you think of a vineyard, there are round baskets on the ground.
What about Santorini's disadvantages? It exists and should not be overlooked. First, it is expensive. Everything is luxury price here — a hotel night with a caldera view costs between 200-500 EUR, lunch easily costs 30-40 EUR. Second, it's crowded—walking in Oia in July-August is a pain. Third, beach quality — Santorini is not ideal for a beach holiday, the beaches are volcanic black or red sand, and the water entrance can be stony. Fourth, transportation — public transportation on the island is limited, car rental or ATV is the most practical solution, but narrow roads and traffic are stressful.
But despite all this, no one who goes to Santorini says "I wish I hadn't gone." There are some places that are unforgettable even with their shortcomings. This place is exactly like that.
Santorini has a typical Mediterranean climate: summer is dry and hot, winter is mild and rainy. May-June and September-October are the golden period — the weather is nice, the crowds are bearable compared to peak summer, prices are a little more reasonable.
| Period | Weather (daytime) | Fatigue | Otel Fiyatı | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January-February | 8 / 14° | Very Low | Very Low | Most hotels and restaurants are closed, quiet but hazy |
| March | 10 / 16° | Low | Low | The island is starting to wake up, some places are opening |
| April | 14 / 20° | Medium | Medium | Easter season is lively, flowers are in bloom, the sea is cold |
| May | 18 / 24° | Medium-High | High | Most recommended month — ideal weather, not yet unbearable |
| June | 22 / 28° | High | Very High | Long days, swimmable sea, prices have climbed |
| July-August | 25 / 32° | Very High | Highest | It's crowded and hot, but the island is in full swing |
| September | 22 / 28° | High | High | The sea is warmest, the evenings are exquisite, the second golden moon |
| October | 18 / 24° | Medium | Medium | Calm, affordable, still swimmable |
| November | 14 / 18° | Low | Low | Rainy days are increasing, venues are starting to close |
| December | 10 / 15° | Very Low | Very Low | Winter silence, local life, limited options |
Wind warning: Meltemi wind blows throughout the summer in Santorini. It can blow hard, especially in July-August — ferries can be canceled, beach umbrellas can fly away, boats shake more. But this wind also makes the heat bearable. Windless days can be sweltering in Santorini.
There are two ways to Santorini: plane or ferry. They both offer different experiences.
| Exit Point | Sura (plane) | Sura (ferry) | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Istanbul (IST) | 1 h 30 min - 2 h | None (via Athens) | There are direct flights in the summer season |
| Athens (ATH) | 45 min | 5-8 hours (fast ferry 5 hours) | Most options |
| Crete (Heraklion) | - | 2-3 hours (ferry) | Crossing between islands |
| Mykonos | - | 2 hr (ferry) | Island combination |
Santorini Airport (Thira, JTR): It is a small airport with a single runway. During the summer months it is busy, there may be a delay. 6-10 km away from city centers.
From airport to center:
Arriving by ferry: Blue Star Ferries (8 hrs, 30-40 EUR), SeaJets fast ferry (5 hrs, 55-70 EUR) from Athens' Pireas port. You can reach Athinios Port, 20 minutes by bus or taxi from Fira.
Flight ticket tips: Direct flights from Istanbul in the summer season (June-September) are available with Aegean and THY. At other times, transfer to Athens. If you buy early (6-8 weeks ago), you can find it for prices between 100-180 EUR. It can rise to 250+ EUR in August.
Public transportation is limited in Santorini. The island is small but mountainous and the settlements are scattered.
Bus (KTEL): Fira central station is the main transfer point. There are lines to Oia, Kamari, Perissa, Akrotiri and the airport from Fira. Tickets cost 1.80-2.50 EUR. The frequency of trips increases in the summer months, but the last trip is usually around 23:00. During crowded periods, the bus may be full.
ATV/Scooter rental: The island's most popular means of transportation. 25-40 EUR/day. There are people who use it without a license, but the police check it and give fines. The roads are narrow and winding, caution is required. Wearing a helmet is mandatory and wise.
Car rental: 40-70 EUR/day. Parking is a problem, especially in Fira and Oia — parking lots are limited. But it is the most comfortable way to explore the southern part of the island (Akrotiri, Vlychada, Perissa).
Taxi: There are a limited number of taxis throughout the island (approximately 25). Difficult to find in summer, call ahead. Fira-Oia 20-25 EUR, Fira-Kamari 12-15 EUR.
Walking: It is suitable for walking within Fira and between Fira-Firostefani-Imerovigli. Fira-Oia walking path is 10 km, 3-4 hours. Walking between other points is not practical — the distances are long and there are hills.
Oia: The most romantic and most expensive region. Cave hotels with caldera views, infinity pools, boutique venues. The first address for couples and honeymooners. Hotel night 200-800+ EUR. 20 min bus to the center (Fira).
Fira (Thira): Main hub, most options. There is a wide range from hotels with caldera views to budget-friendly hostels on the streets. Nightlife and shopping are here. 60-300 EUR/night.
Firostefani & Imerovigli: Between Fira and Oia, on the edge of the caldera but quieter than Fira. The view is the same, the crowd is less. An alternative for honeymoon and romantic getaway. 150-500 EUR/night.
Kamari: Seaside town, walking distance to the beach. 10 min bus from Fira. More affordable, family friendly. There is no caldera view, but there is the sea. 50-150 EUR/night.
Perissa: Kamari's sister beach, younger and more budget-friendly. Hostels and cheap hostels are here. Beach bars are active at night. 30-100 EUR/night.
Akrotiri: In the south of the island, close to the ancient city, quiet. Easy access to Red Beach and Vlychada. The options are limited, but there are boutiques and special venues. 80-250 EUR/night.
Santorini is one of the most expensive destinations in the Eurozone. Seeing the caldera view comes at a price. The following ranges per day per capita are based on observations to 2026.
| Budget Style | Accommodation (night) | Food (day) | Activity/Transportation | Total 3 days (person) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Backpacker (Perissa hostel, souvlaki, bus) | 30-50 EUR | 20-30 EUR | 15-25 EUR | 195-315 EUR |
| Moderate (Fira 3*, tavern, main points) | 100-180 EUR | 40-60 EUR | 30-50 EUR | 510-870 EUR |
| Comfort (4* with caldera view, good restaurants, tours) | 250-400 EUR | 70-100 EUR | 50-80 EUR | 1110-1740 EUR |
| Luxury (Oia cave hotel, fine dining, private boat) | 500 EUR+ | 150 EUR+ | 150 EUR+ | 2400 EUR+ |
Ways to save money in Santorini: Watch the Caldera view for free (walking path, Oia sunset is free), choose Kamari and Perissa for meals, come by ferry, stay in Perissa, use bus. If you stay in a hostel on the streets instead of a hotel with a caldera view and explore the caldera on foot, your budget will breathe.
Savings items: Souvlaki 3.5-5 EUR, bus ticket 1.80 EUR, Fira-Oia walk free, sunset free, Red Beach free, Pyrgos free, fill your water bottle (tap water is drinkable).
Santorini is not the first destination that comes to mind for families with children — and for good reason. Caldera-side roads, high stairs, hot weather and long walks are challenging with small children. But it can be visited with the right planning, and there are special experiences for children, too.
0-3 years old: Difficult. The paths around the caldera are not stroller-friendly — they are stone-paved, narrow, with steps. Stay in Kamari or Perissa and focus on your beach holiday. A hotel with a pool saves lives. It is most practical to use restaurants/cafés for breastfeeding and changing diapers.
4-7 years old: A volcano tour excites children — the "we're walking on the volcano" concept works. The red cliffs of Red Beach are like a natural adventure park. Playing on the black sand in Kamari is a different beach experience. The story of the "buried city" in Akrotiri attracts their attention.
8-12 years old: Climbing Ancient Thera, a section of the Fira-Oia hiking trail, boat tours and volcano visits are ideal for this age group. If you explain the volcanic formation of Santorini, it would be a geography lesson. The open-air cinema in Kamari is great for children.
13+ years old: Instagram photo tour (streets of Oia, blue domes), wine tasting (tasting with parental permission), different beach of Vlychada, nightlife of Fira (adolescent version: ice cream + yurusyus).
Nea Kameni Volcano Tour — Walking on the active volcano, seeing steam in the crater, swimming in hot springs on the way back. A natural adventure for children.
Kamari Black Beach — Black volcanic sand amazes children. Organized beach, restaurants and bars along the coast. Family friendly, shallow water entry.
Akrotiri Ancient City — Covered, shaded. The concept "People lived here 3,600 years ago" impresses children.
Fira Cable Car + Old Port — Going down by cable car is a little adventure. Watching boats in the old port, spending time by the sea.
Kamari Open Air Cinema — Watching movies under the stars on summer nights. The smell of spells and corn.
Baby stroller: Impractical on the caldera side of Oia and Fira — steps and stone paths are an obstacle. The flat parts of Kamari and Perissa are more suitable. Lightweight, off-road wheeled model sec.
Children's menu: Official children's menu is rare, but Greek cuisine is suitable for children: french fries, souvlaki, pita, tzatziki, spaghetti. The portion size is already suitable for sharing.
Safety: Caldera-rim paths and terraces may have no guardrails — keep a close eye on young children. There are sometimes water ingress on the beaches. Take a bowl and sea shoes.
Toilet: Toilet paper is thrown away in Greece, explain this to the children. Large restaurants and museums have toilets.
Sun protection: There is little shade in Santorini, especially on the caldera side and beaches. SPF 50+, hat, plenty of water.
Greetings: "Kalimera" (good morning, until noon) and "Kalispera" (good evening) are useful everywhere. While sitting in the restaurant, make eye contact with the waiter, raise your hand - he will come. They don't bring the bill themselves, you have to ask for it ("Logariasmo, parakalo").
Sensitive topic of Santorini: The official name of the island is "Thira" — Santorini is its Italian nickname, but everyone calls it Santorini, no problem. The Akrotiri excavations are still controversial, with some locals criticizing the opening of the excavations to tourism.
Photo courtesy: Be sensitive when photographing people's homes, balconies, and courtyards. Some residents are overwhelmed by the constant groups of tourists passing by. Entering private property in Oia — someone's house, although it looks attractive.
Betting: Not compulsory in Greece. 5-10% is sufficient as an expression of satisfaction. Leave coins on the table or round up the bill.
Clothing: Don't wander between restaurants and bays in beach clothes — wear something over your swimsuit. Shoulders and knees should be covered when entering churches.
Wine culture: Wine is serious business in Santorini. During the tasting, they don't open and fill the bottle without asking — choose from the menu or ask the waiter for a recommendation. Learn to say "Assyrtiko", it is useful everywhere.
Environmental awareness: Santorini is an island with water shortages - keep your showers short, do not wash towels unnecessarily. Carrying a metal bottle instead of a plastic water bottle is appreciated.
Turkish-Greek dynamic: It is very hot on an individual level. Common meals and similar words open the door to conversation. But stay away from Cyprus, the Aegean and political issues — these are sensitive.
How many days to visit Santorini? 3 full days are enough for the main points (Oia, Fira, Akrotiri, a beach, wine tasting). 5-7 days are ideal for a relaxed holiday, island exploration, multiple beaches and winery visits. Combined with Mykonos or Crete, it would be a wonderful 10-day island holiday.
How to get to Santorini from Istanbul? In the summer season (June-September) there are direct flights (THY, Aegean), 1.5-2 hours. At other times, a connecting flight to Athens is the most practical. Alternative: Istanbul-Athens flight + Athens-Santorini ferry (romantic but long).
Is Santorini expensive? Yes, it is one of the most expensive destinations in the Eurozone. Hotel night with caldera view costs 200-500 EUR, dinner at the caldera restaurant costs 40-60 EUR/person. But in Perissa, hostel costs 30-50 EUR, souvlaki costs 4-5 EUR, bus ticket costs 1.80 EUR — you can also go on a budget.
Where to watch the best sunset? Oia Castle is the most famous but the most crowded. Alternatives: Imerovigli (Skaros Rock), Firostefani, Santo Wines winery (with wine), boat tour (watching from the sea), Sunset by Volcanos bar. They are all beautiful.
Can you swim in Santorini? Yes, but make sure your expectations are correct. The beaches are volcanic — black or red sand, the water inlet is sometimes stony. Kamari and Perissa are the most organized beaches. Red Beach is good for the view and average for swimming. Perivolos is calmer. Bring swim shoes.
Is a winery tour required? We definitely recommend it. Assyrtiko grape, which grows in the volcanic soil of Santorini, is famous all over the world. Santo Wines, Venetsanos, Gavalas and Sigalas are the most well-known wineries. Tasting costs 15-25 EUR, private tours 40-80 EUR. You can also go on your own.
ATV or car? ATV is more popular and fun, but riskier — roads are narrow, traffic is chaotic, helmets are mandatory. Car is safer but there is a parking problem (Fira and Oia). A combination of bus + taxi is also useful. If you have no engine experience, choose a car.
Is it easy to move from Santorini to Mykonos? Yes. SeaJets fast ferry 2-2.5 hours, ticket 40-65 EUR. Multiple trips per day during the summer months. Buy in advance, it fills up.
Is it possible to have a holiday with children in Santorini? It can be done, but plan it. The caldera rim can be dangerous and sweltering for children. The most logical thing to do is to stay in Kamari/Perissa and have a beach + pool focused holiday. Volcano tour and Akrotiri are fun for kids. See the Travel Guide with Kids section above for details.
Is a visa required? A Schengen visa is required for an ordinary (burgundy) Turkish passport. Green (special) and gray (service) passport holders are visa-free for up to 90 days. Application to the Greek consulate via VFS Global.
Festivals, concerts and public holidays — 2026 calendar
Jul 1, 2026 – Sep 15, 2026
Megaro Gyzi Cultural Centre, Fira
Concert series showcasing classical music, Greek folk music and art at the historic Megaro Gyzi Estate in Fira throughout the summer. Small but high-quality productions, open-air concerts with a view of the caldera. Tickets are 10-25 EUR.
Official source →Jul 15, 2026 – Jul 18, 2026
Kamari Open Air Cinema and various venues
The island's mid-summer musical event. International and Greek jazz artists perform. Venues include ancient theaters and wineries. Tickets cost between 15-40 EUR. A small but friendly festival, music and wine combine.
Official source →Aug 20, 2026 – Aug 22, 2026
Various wineries, island-wide
The island's wineries open their doors for special tasting events, vineyard tours and food pairings. A great opportunity to discover local grape varieties such as Assyrtiko, Nykteri and Vinsanto. Tickets are 20-50 EUR depending on the winery.
Official source →Sep 5, 2026
Caldera (opposite Nea Kameni)
Santorini's most epic event. Fireworks show over the caldera, light and sound show simulating a volcano eruption. Viewed from Fira, Imerovigli and Oia. Watching from boats is the best choice, but advance reservation is required. Once a year, the date may change.
Official source →Apr 20, 2027
Pyrgos Kallistis
Orthodox Easter is celebrated magnificently in Santorini, especially in Pyrgos. The procession march, illuminated by thousands of candles and issues on the night of Great Friday, is like a river of fire in the deep darkness. Resurrection mass and fireworks at midnight on Saturday. It is called the most atmospheric Easter celebration in Greece.
Official source →Current according to passport type
Schengen visa. 90 days in 180 days. Apply through the Greek consulate or VFS Global.
Official application →Visa-free for up to 90 days in 180 days.
Visa-free.
Visa-free.
For application links and other countries, check the Turkish Passport Visa Guide.
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