Santorini is calling and you’re about ready to pick up. This magical island is almost guaranteed to be one of the most beautiful and unique places you will ever set foot. It’s also one of the most romantic places to visit in Europe. The dreamy sunsets, white-washed buildings atop volcanic cliffs and crystal-clear waters await you!
Here I want to share everything you need to know about visiting Santorini Island and keep it short & sweet but informative.
Can I travel to Santorini on a budget?
If you’re a budget-savvy traveler and think this picturesque island in the Aegean Sea isn’t the Greek Island for you, then think again. There are many ways to enjoy Santorini on a budget that I will share below.
How to get to Santorini
Fly to Santorini Airport (JTR)
The most convenient way to get to Santorini is by flying into Santorini International Airport (JTR), which has regular direct flights from major European cities and the Middle East. Most flight options outside of Europe will fly via the capital of Greece, Athens. The views flying into Santorini will not disappoint.
Ferry to Santorini
Another option is to travel by ferry from Athens or other nearby islands like Mykonos, Naxos or Crete. Ferries can sometimes be a more affordable option, but the journey can take several hours, so take this into account and be prepared for longer travel times.
Accommodation options on Santorini Island for different budgets
Whether you want to stay in luxury or save your pennies and camp, there are many options available.
$ – hostels or camping
Traveling solo? There are plenty of hostels or camping options to fit your budget, some even with pools! Most will be located in Fira or Perissa.
$$ – budget hotels, guest houses or Airbnbs
When traveling with another person or in a group then budget hotels will probably work out cheaper when splitting the total cost. If you’re happy to stay away from the caldera/cliff views then there are plenty of budget accommodation options. Look in either Perissa or Kamari for the cheapest options or there can also be some great deals found in the capital of Fira.
Here are my favourite budget accommodation options in Santorini:
$$$ – luxury resorts
Santorini does not shy away from luxury. Most of these options will be along the caldera in Oia, Imerovigli or Fira and have their own pool, spa or private balcony views. My favourite option in Santorini is the Old Castle Oia. Check the price at that link or sign up to Plannin for up to 40% discount on hotels.
The villages of Santorini
Although the island is relatively small, there are a number of different areas to explore that all offer something a little different.
Fira – the capital
Fira is the largest of the towns, situated in the middle of the caldera, this town has it all. It has the most restaurants, contains pretty much all of the nightlife and has the most accommodation options. The cruise ship passengers will also disembark here and it hosts the islands main bus terminal. It’s a great base to explore Santorini.
Oia – the Instagrammable town
I bet 90% of the photos you have seen all over social media probably would have been taken in Oia. This village sits at the end of the caldera, with unobstructed views of the sunset over the ocean. Oia is the most glamorous town which hosts the most luxurious resort and accommodation options with not too many budget accommodation options.
Imerovigli – the somewhere-in-the-middle town
Situated just a short walk from Fira, this town offers a nice range of luxury and affordable accommodation with gorgeous views and fewer crowds.
Perissa/Kamari – the beach towns
Drive east of the island to find the black sandy beaches of Perissa and Kamari. Accommodation options are cheapest here and whilst you may not get the cliff top views that the other towns offer, you do get much easier access to the water on those hot summer days.
Pyrgos/Megalochori – the quaint villages
Pyrgos is the old capital of Santorini with much quieter streets full of history. Megalochori is a stones throw from the caldera views but remaining away from the crowds.
Akrotiri – the bit-of-everything village
Akrotiri is a little out of the way from most of the other sights, sitting on the complete opposite end of the island to Oia but it does have its advantages. There is history in the archaeological sites there, access to beaches and you get caldera views all the way across the island.
Santorini villages and their accommodation price points
$ – Perissa
$ – Kamari
$$ – Fira
$$ – Megalochori
$$ – Akrotiri
$$ – Pyrgos
$$ – Vothonas
$$$ – Oia
$$$ – Imerovigli
If you have a bit more of a budget for accommodation and want the most iconic view from your room/pool, then check out the Old Castle Oia.
Transport around Santorini Island
How to get from the airport or ferry port to your Santorini accommodation
Once you arrive at the airport or ferry port, these are your options to get to your accommodation:
$ – local bus
This should only set you back €2-4. The main bus terminal is in Fira where all buses arrive and depart from. If you are staying outside of Fira you will need to transfer buses here. Check the bus timetable.
$$ – rent a quad bike or ATV/scooter
For car rental, it is advised to book in advance especially during peak season. Most of the bigger rental companies will be located at the airport and you may be required to obtain an international drivers license. Prices can vary anywhere from €20 per day (off-peak season) but make sure to check the terms and conditions surrounding the deposit and make sure to include insurance.
Or rent a scooter/ATV which doesn’t require you to obtain an international drivers license and it is much easier to obtain last minute and even on the day. Prices vary but expect to pay roughly €20 minimum per day for a scooter and €30 per day for ATVs.
$$$ – taxi or transfer
From the airport to your accommodation expect to pay anywhere between €40-50 for a short 15-20 minute drive. Transfers are often similar, costing around €20 per person if going in a mini bus with several drop offs points. I was able to barter and get a fare down to €10 per person for a transfer from the ferry port to Perissa by showing the Uber fare we were given of €30 for 3 of us.
Uber on Santorini
Uber is available on the island to book but doesn’t operate as seamlessly as it does in other cities. It was pretty unreliable at times, often we were waiting 15-20 minutes only for the rideshare to cancel. If anything, it is a good budgeting tool to barter with local taxi drivers.
The best things to do in Santorini
- Explore the cliffside towns of Oia, Fira & Imerovigli
- Pyrgos – the ancient capital
- Black sand beach towns of Perissa & Kamari
- Red Beach (by car or ATV)
- Catamaran tour to Red, White & Black Beach
- Visit Santo’s Winery
- Ammoudi Bay
- Akrotiti Archaeological Site
- Hike the Caldera Trail
- Views from Profitis Ilias
Day trip options from Santorini
- Nea Kameni Island. Hike up the volcano & swim in the geothermal water around the island
- Palia Kameni – smaller island with hot springs
- Thirasia Island (book this budget tour that includes stops at Nea Kameni, Palia Kameni & Thirasia Island)
- Sea Caves Kayak Tour. Choose either day time or for sunset.
- Sail day on a catamaran with BBQ lunch & drinks
- Sunset dinner cruise
Where to get the iconic photos in Santorini
Santorini might as well just change it’s name to ‘Instagram Island’ at this point. With countless Insta-famous spots, let me share the exact locations to put into Google Maps. You can also find some photo inspo on my Instagram & a reel that shares these spots as well.
- Oia Castle
- Kastro Oia Houses
- Windmill of Oia
- 3 Domes, Oia. First viewpoint from The Bubble Suite. Second from Spitia Santorini
- Viewpoint and Photo Point over 3 Dome Church
- Car Park next to Alti Santorini Suites (photo on ATV taken here)
- Church of Agios Nikolaos (above)
- Three Bells of Fira
- Church of the Resurrection of the Lord
- Skaros Rock
- Red Beach
- Sunset Ammoudi restaurant (octopus display)
- Yalos
- Nikki Beach Resort & Spa
The best sunset spots in Santorini
- Oia Castle. Undoubtedly the most popular sunset spot on the island. Arrive at least an hour before sunset to get a good spot. If it is already busy, walk down the path towards Ammoudi Bay and climb up the castle walls from below. You’ll have some secluded spots all to yourself.
- Sun Spirit, Oia
- The Wine Bar, Imerovigli
- Kastro Restaurant, Oia
- PK Cocktail Bar, Fira
- The Fira Wall (next to PK Cocktail Bar)
- Three Bells of Fira
- Volkan on the rocks, Fira
- Santo Wines, Pyrgos
- Franco’s Cafe Pyrgos
The best time to visit Santorini
The cheapest & quietest months in Santorini: November to March
Unlike a lot of other Greek Islands, Santorini mostly stays open throughout winter for visitors. Some restaurants, hotels etc may close down but generally you should find a lot of options during the winter months. Yes the weather will be cooler and there can be slight storms and rainy days, but you can also get beautiful sunny days and the chance to see Santorini without the crowds.
Busiest & hottest months in Santorini: June to September
This is the most expensive time to travel. Expect the largest crowds and hottest temperatures.
Shoulder season in Santorini: April/May & October
Shoulder season is the perfect time to travel to Santorini, when the temperatures are still warm and there are fewer crowds compared to the peak travel months.
Recommended time to spend in Santorini
I would recommend staying at least 3-5 days to get the most out of your visit.
How to visit Santorini on a budget
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the fun. Here are some tips to make the most of your trip without emptying your wallet:
- Visit during shoulder season: Santorini can get crowded and expensive during peak season (June to August). Consider visiting during shoulder season (April to May or September to October) when the weather is still pleasant, but prices are lower and crowds are thinner.
- Stay in budget accommodations: Look for budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels, camping, guesthouses, or budget hotels. Fira has some great budget options and it is the most convenient place to stay or else consider staying in less touristy areas like Kamari or Perissa for more affordable options.
- Eat at local tavernas: Skip the fancy restaurants and opt for local tavernas where you can enjoy delicious Greek cuisine at more reasonable prices. Don’t miss out on trying moussaka, souvlaki, or gyros – they’re a must! I also suggest walking a few streets back from the busiest and most touristy streets as the prices will be much more affordable.
- Use local transport: Santorini has a reliable bus system that connects the main towns and villages on the island. It’s much cheaper than renting a car or taking taxis. If you do want a bit more freedom to see some of the beaches and places that are a little out of the way, rent a scooter or ATV for just one day and travel to all of the places not accessible by bus then utilise local transport for the rest of your stay.
- I detail exactly how to manage your time with an ATV/scooter in my 3 day budget Santorini itinerary.
Packing tips for Santorini
When it comes to packing for Santorini, less is more! Here are some packing tips to keep in mind:
- SUMMER: Light, breezy clothing: Pack light, breathable clothing such as cotton dresses, shorts, and t-shirts. Santorini can get hot, so be prepared with lightweight clothing that will keep you cool and comfortable.
AUTUMN/SPRING: Make sure to bring light jackets and longer pants as the nights can cool down.
WINTER: Bring thicker clothing and layers that you can remove/add as you need. When the sun is out it can still feel quite warm but the weather varies and can be wet/stormy as well so best to bring a waterproof jacket and umbrella. - SUMMER: Swimwear and beach essentials: Don’t forget to pack your favorite swimsuits, a beach towel, and sunscreen. Santorini is known for its stunning beaches, so you’ll definitely want to spend some time soaking up the sun and enjoying the crystal-clear waters.
- Comfortable footwear: Opt for comfortable walking shoes or sandals as you’ll be exploring a lot of the island on foot. Keep in mind that the streets in Santorini can be steep and rocky, so choose footwear that is practical and comfortable.
- Camera and charger: Santorini is a photographer’s paradise with its breathtaking sunsets, stunning landscapes, and picturesque villages. Don’t forget to bring your camera and charger to capture those picture-perfect moments.
My personal ratings of Santorini Island
Scenery: 10/10
Activities: 9/10
Food: 8/10
Nightlife: 7/10
Affordability: 4/10
If you have any questions about Santorini, feel free to drop them in the comments.
Yes, Santorini is busy and a very ‘cliche’ travel spot, but it’s still one of my favourite places in the world that you can’t find anywhere else like it. So enjoy it, embrace the beauty and have the best time!
