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• Santorini – favorite restaurants
• Santorini maps
• Santorini buses
• Santorini ferry port
• Santorini airport
• Santorini things to do
• Athens to Santorini – An Island Hopping Itinerary
• Questions? dave@santorinidave.com
My Santorini Guide
Last updated: October 1, 2026
The view of Oia from Skaros Rock in Imerovigli. The hike between the two villages – along the caldera – is my favorite thing to do in Santorini.
I have visited Santorini more times than I can count, personally checking hundreds of hotels, restaurants, beaches, tours, wineries, and viewpoints. I know what is worth the money, what is overhyped, and what sounds better online than it feels in real life. This is my practical guide to Greece’s most famous island.
Santorini was shaped by a massive volcanic eruption in the second millennium BC, leaving a ring of cliffs around a sea-filled caldera. The main villages of Fira, Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani sit high along the caldera rim, with spectacular views across the water.
Santorini is spectacular, but it is expensive and crowded in peak season. Oia at sunset can feel like a theme park. The ferry port is chaotic, taxis are limited, and the beaches are not the best in Greece.
My advice: Stay 4 or 5 nights if you can. Book a caldera-view hotel early, take a boat tour, and walk at least part of the Fira to Oia trail. Do not build your whole trip around one famous sunset viewpoint.
Santorini is best for:
- Luxury cave hotels, private terraces, and caldera views
- Boat tours around the caldera, volcano, hot springs, and sunset
- The Fira to Oia hike, my favorite thing to do on the island
- Wine tasting, especially in the late afternoon
- Restaurants with caldera views, as long as you choose carefully
Book your hotel as soon as your dates are firm, especially for June through September. The best hotels and best-value rooms sell out months ahead. I would also book summer ferries early if you need a cabin or a specific departure.
Saint Eleftherios Church in Oia.
The winding road down to the ferry port.
A traditional Cycladic church. (Looking north into the caldera.)
The pool at Altana Heritage Suites in Imerovigli. (I’m almost certain this is the highest pool on the caldera.)
Saint Ioannis Church in Perissa.
Agios Georgios Katefio, overlooking the airport and Kamari Beach.
The stairs at Above Blue Suites in Imerovigli.
Sophia Oia View – just a handful of suites, all with private plunge pools and caldera views.
To Kafenedaki Tou Emporiou: A cozy café offering a taste of local life.
Church of Agios Stylianos in Fira.
The Chapel of Saint Nicholas overlooking the caldera, the hotels of Akrotiri visible along the southern caldera cliff.
Monument of the Fallen next to the Church of Agios Nikolaos in Pyrgos.
Santorini Basics
- Where to Stay in Santorini
- Best Beaches & Beach Towns
- When to Visit Santorini
- Santorini Maps
- Santorini or Mykonos?
Santorini Hotels
- Best Hotels in Santorini
- Best Cheap Hotels
- Best Beach Hotels
- Best Luxury Hotels
- Best Villas & Rentals
- Best Hotels for Families
- Hotels with Caldera Views
- Hotels with Private Pools
- Hotels with Sunset Views
- Cave Hotels
- Wheelchair Accessible Hotels
- Hotel Infinity Pools
- All-Inclusive Hotels
- Fira Hotels
- Oia Hotels
- Imerovigli Hotels
- Firostefani Hotels
- Perissa & Perivolos Hotels
- Kamari Hotels
- Megalochori Hotels
- Pyrgos Hotels
- Akrotiri Hotels
Santorini Activities
- Best Things to Do
- Best Restaurants
- Best Bars & Nightlife
- Wineries & Wine Tours
- Museums and Cultural Sites
- Fira to Oia Hike
- Skaros Rock Hike
- Santorini Walking Tours
- Santorini with Kids
- Santorini Private Tours
- Boat Tours
- Open Air Cinema in Kamari
- Ancient Ruins of Akrotiri
- Ammoudi Bay
Santorini Trip Planning
- How to Get to Santorini
- Santorini for First Timers
- Ferry Port Guide
- Airport Guide
- Santorini Buses
- Private Drivers – Port & Airport Pick-Ups
- Renting a Car
- Santorini Taxis
- Athens to Santorini by Ferry
- Mykonos to Santorini by Ferry
- Crete to Santorini by Ferry
- Santorini Helicopter Tours & Transfers
- 1, 2, 3, & 7 Days in Santorini
Latest Articles & My Travel Newsletter
Frequently Asked Questions about Santorini
See Also: Greece: Tips & Information for First-Timers
How Many Days Do I Need in Santorini?
For most first-time visitors, 4 or 5 nights is ideal. Three nights works if Santorini is one stop on a longer Greece trip. Two nights is rushed, especially if you are arriving by ferry.
With 4 or 5 nights, you have time for the Fira to Oia hike, a caldera boat tour, Ancient Akrotiri, a winery, and some time to enjoy your hotel.
A week is not too long if you have a great hotel and want plenty of pool time. But I would generally prefer 4 or 5 nights in Santorini followed by a few nights on Naxos, Paros, or Milos.
What’s the Best Way to Get to Santorini: Fly or Take a Ferry?
Fly from Athens if Santorini is your first island. Take the ferry if you are already island hopping.
The flight from Athens takes about 45 to 50 minutes. Ferries from Piraeus take roughly 5 to 8 hours, depending on the boat. If you are connecting from an international flight, flying is usually much easier.
If you are already staying in central Athens, the ferry makes more sense. You avoid traveling back to the airport, and the approach to Santorini is spectacular, especially on a large Blue Star ferry.
Ferries connect Santorini with Naxos, Paros, Mykonos, Ios, Milos, and Crete, though not every route runs daily or year-round. Service is most frequent from May to October.
The downside of arriving by ferry is the Athinios port, which gets congested when several boats arrive together. Pre-book a transfer or arrange pickup with your hotel. Do not count on finding a taxi.
There are also direct seasonal flights to Santorini from many European cities, generally from spring through autumn.
For more details, see my guides to Athens to Santorini, Mykonos to Santorini, flying versus taking the ferry, the Santorini airport, and my Greek ferries guide.
How Big is Santorini?
Santorini is roughly 16 km long and 1 to 5 km wide, with a land area of about 76 square kilometers and a resident population of roughly 15,500.
You can drive from one end to the other in under an hour in light traffic, but summer congestion and parking can make short trips much slower.
What is the Best Way to Get Around Santorini?
Use buses for simple trips, rent a small car for 1 or 2 days of exploring, and pre-book transfers for the airport and ferry port. Santorini is small, but narrow roads, limited parking, and heavy summer traffic make getting around slower than you might expect.
Local Bus
The Santorini bus system is cheap and useful, especially if you stay in Fira. Routes connect Fira with Oia, Kamari, Perissa, Akrotiri, the airport, and the ferry port.
All routes go through Fira. Traveling from Oia to Kamari, for example, requires changing buses. Buses can be packed, particularly after sunset in Oia and around ferry arrivals.
Carry cash and check current schedules. You can pay by card or phone at the Fira and Oia bus stations, but otherwise tickets are cash only and bought on the bus.
Rental Car
A rental car is best for visiting Akrotiri, the lighthouse, Pyrgos, Megalochori, wineries, and the beaches. You probably don’t need one every day.
Rent a compact car. Parking in Fira and Oia is frustrating, and a large SUV is more trouble than it’s worth. Book ahead in summer if you need an automatic.
Taxis and Uber
Taxis are limited and waits can be long, especially after sunset in Oia and when flights or ferries arrive.
Uber operates in Santorini and can be useful for requesting available rides, but availability varies. Do not depend on it for a flight, ferry, or tour departure.
Pre-Booked Transfers
For airport and ferry arrivals, a pre-booked transfer is worth the extra cost. The price is arranged in advance and the driver meets you on arrival.
Welcome Pickups is what I use for easy online booking. Good hotels can also arrange transfers.
ATVs and Scooters
I do not recommend renting an ATV or scooter just because it is easy to park. Santorini’s roads are busy, narrow, and windy. For most visitors, a compact car is safer and more comfortable.
Public buses connect the ferry port with Fira around scheduled ferry arrivals. Buses in Santorini are comfortable, cheap, and have room for luggage.
What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Santorini?
June and September are my favorite months. The weather is warm, swimming and boat tours are excellent, and the island is generally easier to enjoy than in July and August.
Late May and early October are also great, particularly for sightseeing, hiking, and better hotel prices.
July and August have the hottest weather, biggest crowds, highest prices, and busiest nightlife. Santorini is still worth visiting, but book early and avoid sightseeing in the middle of the day.
November through March is quiet, with many hotels, restaurants, and tours closed. Fira is the best base for year-round services. Come for walking, views, and photography, not beaches or nightlife.
- Best overall: June and September.
- Best value with good weather: Late May and early October.
- Best swimming: Late June through September.
- Best hiking: April, May, early June, late September, October, and early November.
- Best nightlife: July and August.
Santorini does not have the best beaches in Greece – they’re mostly pebble beaches – but the swimming is divine.
What is the Best Town to Stay in Santorini for First-Timers?
For a first trip, I recommend staying on the caldera if your budget allows it.
- Best for first visit: Fira. Best restaurants, nightlife, buses, and convenience. The easiest base without a car.
- Best for romance and views: Imerovigli. My favorite for couples and honeymooners. Quieter than Oia and Fira.
- Best compromise: Firostefani. Excellent views and a quieter setting, only 10 to 15 minutes from Fira on foot.
- Best for a splurge: Oia. Beautiful luxury hotels, but expensive, crowded, and less convenient for exploring the island.
My wife and I walking through Fira on a beautiful day in Santorini.
Fira
Fira is the island’s capital and most practical base. It has the main bus station, the widest choice of restaurants and shops, the best nightlife, and plenty of caldera-view hotels.
• Stay here if: you are not renting a car, want nightlife, or plan to explore by bus. Hotels without caldera views can be good value.Firostefani
Firostefani is a small caldera village immediately north of Fira, with excellent views and good restaurants.
• Stay here if: you want a quiet hotel within walking distance of Fira’s restaurants, nightlife, and bus station. One of the smartest choices on the island.The view of the volcano and Skaros Rock from the amazing Astra Suites Hotel in Imerovigli.
Imerovigli
Imerovigli sits high on the caldera with spectacular views of the volcano, Skaros Rock, and sunset. It is quieter and more romantic than Fira or Oia.
• Stay here if: the hotel and view are a big part of the trip. My favorite for couples and honeymooners. Many hotels have steep steps and pedestrian-only access. Check the exact location if mobility is an issue.Oia
Oia is Santorini’s most famous village, with blue domes, cave hotels, galleries, boutiques, and excellent sunset views.
• Stay here if: you want Oia itself to be a major part of the trip and are happy to pay for the location. Oia is worth visiting regardless of where you stay, but Fira, Firostefani, and Imerovigli are better bases for many first-timers.Kamari and Perissa
The beach towns are flatter, cheaper, and easier than the caldera villages, with larger hotel pools and casual restaurants.
• Stay here if: you have young kids, want easy beach access, or need to keep hotel costs down. Perissa and Perivolos (the southern extension of Perissa) are best for long beach days. Kamari has a lively promenade and is particularly good for families. For a first Santorini trip, I still prefer the caldera.
The fantastic inland village of Pyrgos.
Pyrgos, Megalochori, and Akrotiri
These quieter areas are best with a rental car, especially for repeat visitors.
Pyrgos is my favorite inland village, with winding lanes, churches, excellent restaurants, and views from the old Venetian castle.
Megalochori is smaller and quieter, surrounded by vineyards and traditional houses. Good for wine lovers and couples.
Akrotiri is spread across the south of the island, close to the archaeological site, lighthouse, Vlychada, and Red Beach. Some hotels have excellent caldera views.
What are the Must-Do Activities in Santorini?
1. Hike from Fira to Oia
The Fira to Oia hike is my favorite thing to do in Santorini. The route is about 10 km and takes 3 to 5 hours with stops, passing through Firostefani and Imerovigli before reaching Oia.
Start early in summer. There is very little shade, and midday on the trail in July or August can be miserable. Wear proper shoes and carry water.
2. Take a Caldera Boat Tour
A Santorini boat tour is the best splurge for most visitors. Small-group catamarans are great for swimming, food, and sunset. Larger volcano boats are cheaper and better if you want to walk on Nea Kameni. Wear dark swimwear if you plan to enter the hot springs, as the mineral-rich water can stain light fabric.
3. Visit Ancient Akrotiri
Ancient Akrotiri is the island’s essential archaeological site. The Bronze Age town was buried by the massive volcanic eruption in the second millennium BC, preserving streets, multi-story buildings, pottery, and drainage systems. Allow 1 to 2 hours. A good guide makes a huge difference. The site is covered, making it a good choice on a hot, windy, or rainy day.
Oia, Santorini.
4. Explore Oia
Oia is beautiful and worth seeing, but go early if you can. Late afternoon is the busiest time, when cruise passengers and sunset crowds overlap. Wander beyond the main pedestrian lane and walk down toward Ammoudi if you are prepared for the stairs.
5. Visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera
The Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Fira holds important finds from Akrotiri, including frescoes, pottery, tools, and everyday objects. Visit it after Akrotiri. About an hour is enough for most people.
6. Go Wine Tasting
Santorini produces excellent wine, especially Assyrtiko. The vines are trained low to the ground in basket shapes, called kouloura, to protect them from the wind. Venetsanos and Santo Wines have excellent views. Estate Argyros and Domaine Sigalas are better choices if the wine itself is your priority.
Book a wine tour if you want to visit several wineries. Do not drive yourself if you plan to drink.
My wife and I in Imerovigli, with Oia in the distant background.
7. Explore Fira, Firostefani, and Imerovigli
Walk the caldera path north from Fira through Firostefani and Imerovigli. Explore the side paths and consider the detour to Skaros Rock. This is the best shorter alternative to the full Fira to Oia hike.
8. Visit Pyrgos and Emporio
Pyrgos is my favorite inland village. Walk through the narrow lanes to the old kasteli for views across the island. Late afternoon is a great time to visit. Nearby Emporio has an even better maze of medieval lanes and fortified houses. Both villages offer a look at Santorini before tourism transformed the island. If you have a rental car, I would visit both.
9. Visit Ammoudi Bay
Ammoudi sits below Oia and is one of the prettiest small harbors in the Cyclades. The waterfront restaurants are expensive, but the setting is excellent. You can reach the bay by road or by the long staircase from Oia.
10. Spend Time at the Volcanic Beaches
Santorini’s beaches are volcanic, not soft and sandy. If you want perfect sand and shallow turquoise water, go to Naxos or Paros. Perissa and Perivolos are best for a full beach day. Kamari is convenient and family-friendly. Vlychada has unusual sculpted cliffs and is easy to combine with Akrotiri.
Red Beach is best treated as a sightseeing stop, not a normal beach day. The cliffs and access route have a long history of rockfall restrictions. Obey any closure signs or barriers.
11. Visit Ancient Thera
Ancient Thera sits high on Mesa Vouno between Kamari and Perissa, with ruins from several periods of the island’s history. The setting and views are more impressive than the ruins themselves. Go early, wear good shoes, and allow time for the winding road up. It’s worth visiting if you enjoy archaeology, but I would prioritize Akrotiri.
Where are the Best Places to Watch the Santorini Sunset?
Oia Castle is the famous one. The view is beautiful, but the crowds can be ridiculous. In peak season, people arrive well before sunset to claim a spot.
Imerovigli is my favorite. The paths around the village and toward Skaros Rock have wide caldera views with much more space than Oia. Bring a light if you plan to walk back from Skaros after dark.
Pyrgos has wonderful views across the island. Walk through the village to the old kasteli before sunset.
Akrotiri Lighthouse is good if you have a rental car and want open sea and cliffs. Facilities and parking are limited, so arrive early.
A sunset boat tour is my favorite splurge. You get the sunset and caldera views without the Oia crowds.
What Currency is Used in Santorini?
Santorini uses the Euro (€). Credit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay are widely accepted. Carry some cash for buses, small purchases, and tips.
ATMs are easy to find in the main towns. If an ATM or card terminal offers to charge you in Euros or your home currency, choose Euros to avoid the typically worse conversion rate.
Is Santorini Expensive?
Yes. Santorini is one of the most expensive destinations in Greece, especially for caldera-view hotels. Rooms with caldera views, private pools, or sunset views can cost several times more than similar rooms elsewhere on the island.
Oia and Imerovigli have many of the most expensive hotels. Fira offers better value, particularly without a caldera view. Kamari, Perissa, and Perivolos are generally cheaper.
How to save money:
- Stay off the cliff: Hotels without caldera views can be dramatically cheaper. See my favorite cheap hotels in Santorini.
- Travel in May or October: Hotels are generally much cheaper than in July and August.
- Use the bus: Especially if you are staying in Fira.
- Eat away from the caldera: Gyros, souvlaki shops, bakeries, and casual tavernas offer good value. Sunset-view restaurants charge a premium, often for the view rather than better food.
- Book hotels early: The best-value rooms tend to sell out first.
I’d rather stay in a good hotel without a view and spend the savings on an excellent boat tour than pay a premium for a mediocre hotel with a caldera view.
Most restaurants in Santorini, like Marinera in Fira, accept credit cards.
Is Santorini Good for Families?
Yes, but it is not the easiest Greek island with kids. The caldera villages are steep, crowded, and full of stairs. Naxos, Paros, and Crete are better for a long family beach holiday.
With younger kids, I prefer Kamari or Perissa/Perivolos. They are flatter, cheaper, and have larger pools, casual restaurants, and easy beach access.
With teenagers, Fira works well for its shops, restaurants, buses, and nightlife.
Caldera villages are difficult with strollers. Bring a carrier for babies and toddlers, and check hotel age policies before booking. Many small caldera hotels are adults-only or have minimum-age rules.
Good family activities include a boat tour, beach time, Ancient Akrotiri, and the Open Air Cinema in Kamari. The Fira to Oia hike is good with active older kids but too long and exposed for many younger children in summer.
I like Santorini as a 3 or 4-night family stop paired with an easier beach island.
Watch a movie (usually Mamma Mia) overlooking the caldera at Volkan Cinema in Fira. But for the best movie experience in Santorini head to the Kamari Open Air Cinema.
EES and ETIAS for Greece Travel
EES is already operating. The Entry/Exit System became fully operational across Schengen external borders on April 10, 2026. It electronically records the entries and exits of most non-EU nationals making short stays, using passport information and biometric data.
You do not apply for EES before your trip. Registration happens when you cross an external Schengen border. If you fly from the US or Canada to Athens and connect to Santorini, that normally happens in Athens.
ETIAS is not operating yet. The European Union has not announced a start date. Until it starts, there is nothing to apply for.
Once ETIAS is active, visa-exempt travelers who require it will apply online before travel. The fee is €20, waived for travelers under 18 and over 70. Authorization will normally be valid for three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
ETIAS is not a visa and does not change the normal short-stay limit of 90 days in any 180-day period.
The Honeymoon Suite at Athina Luxury Suites in Fira.
Photos from a summer in Santorini …
September 1
Church of the Holy Cross on the caldera’s edge. As you approach the path down to the Baths of Plaka, you’ll pass between the Church of Saint Marina and two windmills. From this spot, you can also see the Church of the Virgin Mary (Panagia) and the thermal baths nestled at the base of the caldera’s cliff.
Vothonaki Garden in the village of Vothonas.
Coffee and delicious chicken and spinach pies at Vothonaki.
Hike to Agios Georgios To Katefio, with a small portion of the airport runway visible to the left.
August 31
Church of Saint John the Theologian in Fira. One of the oldest buildings in Santorini.
Produce for sale in Fira.
Sunset views in Fira from Niki restaurant.
Kampia beach on the south coast. A hidden gem.
White Beach, just to the west.
August 30
A donkey on a farm near Oia.
A farmer harvesting edible prickly pear cactus fruit.
Kyra Panagia Holy Chapel in the countryside east of Oia.
The caldera walking path as it passes in front of Rocabella hotel north of Imerovigli.
August 29
Saint Charalambos Church in Plakota, outside Emporio Castle.
The three-tiered bell tower of the Church of Agioi Anargyroi in Megalochori.
Traditional underground caves in Megalochori. Free to visit.
August 28
A couple gets their photograph taken just below the Athenian House, one of my very favorite restaurants in Santorini.
The private plunge pools at Sophia Luxury Suites in Imerovigli.
August 27
Oia Castle.
View of caldera from Lotza restaurant in Oia.
Music in Oia as tourists gather for the sunset.
The entrance to the Santorini Maritime Museum in Oia.
Roka, no caldera views but one of my favorite restaurants in Oia.
August 26
Church of Virgin Mary Lagadiou in Fira.
Entrance to the Saint Antonio wedding venue near Pyrgos.
The views and setting are idyllic for a wedding or reception but though it’s surrounded by vineyards the location itself is not an actual vineyard.
August 25
Looking south into the caldera from Vasilicos hotel in Imerovigli.
Saint Nikolaos Holy Convent on the caldera hike between Imerovigli and Firostefani. The women’s monastery of Agios Nikolaos was established in 1651 and has been in its current location since 1820.
Le Moustache Caldera Pool Lounge & Restaurant in Imerovigli.
August 24
Ammoudi Bay below Oia.
Octopus drying at an Ammoudi Bay restaurant.
Diners at Sunset Ammoudi taverna.
From Ammoudi Bay there’s a path that leads to Nisis Agios Nikolaos (a small island you can swim to).
There’s a small chapel (Saint Nicholas Church) on the island and a platform to jump from.
August 23
Choma Kai Nero Pottery Studio in Megalochori.
Demilmar Restaurant Beach Bar in Perissa.
August 22
Steps down the caldera in Firostefani.
Lilium Hotel on the caldera, 2.5 km south of Fira.
Entrance to Gavalas Winery in Megalochori. One of my favorites in Santorini.
Storage cellar for wine.
Gavalas tasting room.
August 21
Catholic Church of Ioannis the Baptist in Fira.
The interior.
Ouzeri, one of my favorite restaurants in Fira.
August 20
Fantastic caldera views from Santo Wines.
To Kantouni traditional restaurant in Pyrgos.
Variety of fresh, oven grilled mushrooms with fresh tomato, gruyere cheese & crouton; and Stuffed homemade vine leaves with yoghurt (Dolmadakia).
Kontosouvli pork with tzatziki pita bread and rustic potatoes.
Gyros rooster with carob-flour pita bread, french fries, tomato, onions, yoghurt sauce and spicy green curry mayonnaise.
August 19
Oia in the early morning.
Streets are still quiet.
One of One Villas in Oia.
Free parking lot in Oia. Located here. Usually plenty of open spots until before noon.
August 18
Theros Wave Bar on Santorini’s southern coast.
Entrance to Theros.
Looking west from Theros.
Looking east from Theros (towards Vlychada beach and marina).
August 17
Saint John the Beheaded (Katiforis) Holy Orthodox Chapel in Imerovigli.
The walking path from Imerovigli to Fira.
Grace Hotel in Imerovigli.
New sweet food truck – Jerry’s: Tasty treats in Fira.
August 16
Windmills near Emporio.
La Ponta hotel in Akrotiri.
August 15
Rooftop view from Franco’s Cafè in Pyrgos.
Saint Ierotheos Church in Pyrgos.
The narrow paths and passageways of Pyrgos.
Vlychada Cafe & Snack Bar on Vlychada Beach.
August 14
Iconic Hotel Atlantis in Fira. Opened in 1954, I don’t consider it a luxury hotel. But reasonable prices and a great location make it a charming (if dated) option.
The taxi station in Fira (directly beside the bus station). Occasionally, there’s a taxi waiting here but probably not. If you’re desperate for a taxi come here and talk to the dispatcher.
Mid-day in mid-August will find the central square of Fira absolutely packed with tourists.
But quiet spots, like the restaurants Barolo & 1500 BC, a three-minute walk south of the main square, are surprisingly easy to find.
August 13
Saint Taxiarchis Church in Megalochori. (Looking west into the caldera.)
Caldera Beach (Apothiki Beach).
Looking out into the caldera from Caldera Beach.
August 12
Early morning there is no line for the cable car down to the Old Port.
Inez Jewelry in Fira.
Located in the heart of Fira, this boutique jewelry shop has been a gem for 26 years, offering unique pieces crafted by Greek-Australian owner Inez and other local artists.
August 11
One of our favorite hotels on the island, Perivolas in Oia.
Wet Stories Bar in Perissa.
Live Greek Music in Megalochori Square.
August 10
Saint John Chrysostom church in Imerovigli.
The winding path down to Pori Beach. A small, quiet gem of a beach with red sands on Santorini’s east coast. The Greek Island of Anafi visible in the distance.
Caldera views and private pools at Cavo Tagoo in Imerovigli.
August 9
Views of the caldera from Iriana Cafe in Fira.
Greek treats at Svoronos Bakery in Fira.
Kayak, a brand new ice cream shop in Fira.
The neighboring entrances to two of my favorite hotels in Fira: Athina Luxury Suites and Porto Fira Suites.
August 8
Red Beach and the water taxi from Akrotiri (stops at Red beach, White Beach, and Messa Pigadia).
Church of Agios Nikolas and the parking lot for Red Beach.
Kaminia Beach (looking towards Red Beach).
August 7
Skaros Rock juts out into the caldera from Imerovigli.
Looking back towards Imerovigli from Skaros Rock.
Church Mother of Lord Theoskepasti is hidden down the cliff on the caldera-side of Skaros Rock (you can’t see it from Imerovigli).
There are spectacular views if you walk down to the church.
August 6
Agios Panteleimon (Άγιος Παντελεήμων): A little church in the settlement of Exo Gonia. Kamari is in the distance.
Almira restaurant in Kamari.
Greek rabbit stew (kouneli stifado) with rice and sweet potato puree at Almira restaurant. (Fresh swordfish is on the plate in the background.)
August 5
Drunkfish restaurant in Monolithos.
Nikki Beach Resort & Spa in Monolithos.
Picking grapes at Estate Argyros.
To Spitiko Mas cooking lessons in Megalochori.
August 4
Sunset crowds in Oia.
Spectacular sunset views from Kastro Oia restaurant.
Iatis Handcrafted Jewels in Oia.
Xristo has been creating handcrafted jewelry for 16+ years.
The fog rolling in around Venetsanos Winery.
August 3
View from the sea towards Perivolos and Perissa beaches.
Tourists enjoying the view from the Firostefani square. (A 12 minute walk from Fira and much less busy.)
The private pool at Stilvi Suite in Firostefani.
The recently refurbished Chic Hotel in Firostefani.
Entrance to Agali Houses in Firostefani. (4-star, reasonable prices for the location, great for families. Not many hotels on the caldera allow young kids, Agali is one of the few.)
August 2
Chapel of Agios Artemios in Oia.
The Saint Hotel in Oia.
View of the caldera and Skaros Rock from Trinity, the hotel’s restaurant.
August 1
The pedestrian path through Imerovigli.
Dining with a view in Imerovigli.
The Tomato Industrial Museum in Vlychada. An excellent introduction to Santorini tomatoes.
July 31
A charming little church (couldn’t find the name) in the back lanes of Oia.
The Windmill Suite (yes, you sleep inside the windmill) at Charisma hotel in Oia. Great unobstructed sunset views and a private plunge pool.
The main road in Perissa and Perivolos runs between shops, hotels, and restaurants (west side of the street) and the beach (east side of the street).
Perivolos Fish Tavern. Serving authentic Greek dishes and fresh seafood for over 40 years.
The beach seating at Perivolos Fish Tavern.
Another one of my favorites, Seaside restaurant in Perivolos. (Expensive.)
July 30
Under renovation: Saints Anárgyri Holy Orthodox Church in Megalochori.
Located on the island’s northeastern coast, Koloumbos Beach is famous for its distinctive black volcanic sand and rugged cliffs, offering a secluded, natural experience accessible only by footpath.
Santorini Secret Suites & Spa in Oia.
The main entrance to the hotel along the pedestrian path through Oia.
July 29
Breakfast with a caldera view at Honeymoon Petra Villas in Imerovigli.
Kivotos hotel in Imerovigli. Oia in the distance.
Acclaimed Mavro restaurant (part of Kivotos hotel) in Imerovigli.
Graffiti Coffee Shop in Karterados. Popular with locals.
July 28
Church of the Holy Cross in Perissa.
Sunday Mass inside.
Boat House restaurant in Kamari: Live music, Greek Night with dancing and plate smashing.
Long lines for Mamma Mia at the Open Air Cinema in Kamari. Arrive at least an hour before showtime. (Maybe even earlier.)
July 27
The Church of the Holy Apostles (of Martinou) is located 1 km uphill from Pyrgos.
The path up to the church.
View from church looking down on Kamari.
Privillage Cave Villa in Pyrgos, looking north towards Fira, Imerovigli, and Oia.
July 26
The Cave of Nikolas: A traditional Greek restaurant with a view of the sea. One of our favorites.
Inside the “cave” built by Uncle Nikolas.
Yemista – one of my favorite Greek dishes. (Stuffed tomatoes and peppers.) The water taxi between beaches is visible in the background.
Octopus in vinegar sauce served with pickled vegetables.
July 25
Finikia is small village outside of Oia. It’s not on the caldera. Hotels here are good value compared to Oia. It’s a 10-15 minute walk from Finikia into Oia.
Sophia Boutique Hotel in Finikia.
Hikers doing the Oia-Fira hike. There is a stretch of the hike (between Imerovigli and Oia) where there is no path and you’ll need to walk on the road.
Carrefour supermarket in Imerovigli. A good place to shop for essentials if you’re staying in the northern half of the island.
July 24
Filming a singer in Imerovigli at sunset.
The Folklore Museum (temporarily closed) and Chapel of Agios Konstantinos in Fira.
Petit Gem Airbnb in Fira.
July 23
Kids learning the basics of sailing in Vlychada.
The Chapel of Saint Nicholas.
Recently, the “Heart of Santorini” lost its heart-shaped form.
But it’s still a popular photo spot.
July 22
Fog rolling in over the caldera.
Volleyball on Monolithos Beach.
Fishermen drying their nets at the end of the day.
July 21
Fruit seller in Kamari.
One of the oldest traditional houses in Kamari.
People boarding the water taxi from Kamari to Perissa. (There’s no avoiding getting a little wet.)
Kerkezu Beach in the southern part of caldera. (There are only a couple of beaches on the caldera, most of the Santorini beaches are on the other side of the island.)
Saint Raphael Holy Orthodox Chapel on the way to the Akrotiri lighthouse.
July 20
Today in Greece is the celebration of Prophet Ilias.
Families celebrating and children ringing bells at the church of Prophet Ilias in Fira.
Vourvoulos beach before sunset.
July 19
Belvedere Suites in Firostefani.
SeaJets high-speed ferry arriving in Santorini (from Crete).
Local fishermen selling today’s catch in Emporio.
July 18
The church of Saint Pagratios in Kamari.
ATV and scooter rentals at Kamari Street Moto.
Infinity pool and sunset view at Aeifos Boutique Hotel in Imerovigli.
July 17
Visitors start the hike to Fira just outside of Oia.
My favorite views on the caldera hike are on the stretch between Oia and Imerovigli.
Ftelari Villa on the caldera’s edge. (You might recognize it from season 3 of “Jack Ryan”.)
The end of the hike (or start, depending on which way you’re walking) is typically the main square of Fira.
July 16
Chapel of Panagia Katefiani built into the cliff. You can visit it on the hike from Perissa to Ancient Thera.
View of Perissa on the walk up Mesa Vouno.
The ruins of Ancient Thera on top of Mesa Vouno.
Lots to see here. (You can drive up to Ancient Thera from the Kamari side of Mesa Vouno if the hike is too much.)
The theatre of Ancient Thera.
Marianna Hotel in Perissa. A family run hotel located near the start of the Ancient Thera hiking path. (Close to town and the beach too.)
Gyros Place in the central square of Perissa.
July 15
El Viento near Megalochori. A popular spot for weddings.
Walking the path down to the Fira Old Port (Skala). A tender boat is transfering cruise passengers from the ship to the Old Port.
The cable car from the Old Port up to Fira. There are no roads down to the Old Port so if you don’t take the cable car you have to walk or hire a donkey to get up to Fira.
There is also a boat transfer from the Old Port to Oia.
Donkey handlers at the Old Port.
July 14
Looking down on Korfou Bay in Thirassia with Santorini visible in the distance. Thirassia is a short ferry ride from Santorini and forms the opposite side of the caldera.
Looking up from Korfou Bay towards Manolas Village.
Captain John restaurant in Korfou Bay.
The grilled squid at Captain John was amazing.
View from Manolas Bay towards the sea (looking west, not into the caldera like above).
The undeveloped countryside in Thirassia makes it ideal for peaceful hikes.
Heading back to Oia. Approaching Ammoudi Bay (from Thirassia) by ferry
Katharos beach near Oia. Thirassia visible behind the splashing wave.
July 13
A proposal at Amara Villa in Imerovigli. The patio and private location is all yours when you stay at the villa.
Traditional Greek breads at Erotokritos bakery in Karterados. (About a 15 minute walk from Fira. Open 24 hours.)
Raki restaurant in Megalochori. Great food and also offers Greek cooking lessons.
July 12
Saint Sampson church in Pyrgos.
Olyra Traditional Cave Houses in the heart of Pyrgos village.
Fira bus station early in the morning.
The huge pool at the Magma Resort. (Note: website photos try to make it look like the hotel has caldera views, but the hotel is not on the caldera, and views are to the east.)
July 11
Lycabettus restaurant at Andronis Luxury Suites in Oia.
Lycabettus restaurant from a different angle. For reservations: reservations@lycabettusrestaurant.com
Flying dress photoshoot at the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin in Oia.
One of One – Aether suite in Oia. (Formerly Zoe Aegeas Traditional Houses.)
Beach south of Pori on the east side of Santorini. Looking north.
Looking south.
Saint Efstratios church in Vourvoulos.
July 10
Lifeguard keeping watch at Kamari beach.
Trendy and eclectic La Boheme in Kamari. (Patios at the excellent value Santellini Hotel perched above.)
Inside La Boheme.
Cozy Cafe Dolce in Kamari.
A huge selection of buggies and ATVs at Moto Star in Kamari.
View from Pyrgos towards Exo Gonia. A bit hazy today.
July 9
Photos and ice cream on the streets of Fira.
The path from the cruise port to Fira.
Coffee Island in Fira. Popular with locals early in the morning, tourists through the day.
Saint Minas Church in Fira. Open 10 AM to 2 PM.
Getting some shade from Saint Minas.
Inside Saint Minas Church.
View from inside Saint Minas.
July 8
Snorkeling at Perissa beach
Chocolat creperie-cafe on Perissa beach
9 Muses hotel in Perivolos offering horseback riding, lawn tennis, and bike rental.
The private chapel at 9 Muses hotel. (Available for weddings.)
A vineyard near Megalochori. The grape harvest begins in late August or early September.
Megalochori village, late in the evening.
July 7
The Akron Art Centre in Megalochori.
The Akron is a gallery displaying reproduced wall paintings from Akrotiri and Minoan and Classical ceramics.
Boats at Mesa Pigadia Beach.
Mesa Pigadia Family Tavern (the food was excellent).
Tomatokeftedes, also known as fried tomato balls, are a popular appetizer originating from Santorini. They’re made from crushed or pureed tomatoes mixed with herbs, onions, and sometimes feta cheese, formed into balls or patties, and then fried in oil until crispy and golden brown. They are often served with a side of tzatziki or as part of a meze platter.
The beach is just below the restaurant.
July 6
Early morning view of Oia.
Saint Basil church on the caldera cliff. The entrance to Captain John Traditional Houses is just to the right, near the boat in the background.
KooKoo restaurant. Close to Oia’s bus stop with a rooftop garden open for sunset views.
Markos, manager and part owner of Kookoo.
Rimida Villas in Oia.
A guided tour group in Oia.
July 5
The road along Monolithos Beach.
Nemely Windsurf and SUP Center on Avis Beach just north of Kamari.
Nemely rents windsurfing and paddle boards, and offers lessons and caldera tours.
Omoo Coffee in Messaria.
Omoo.
Windmill in Karterados village, which is close to Fira and has a good collection of affordable hotels.
July 4
Santorini Camping. Located east of Fira, about a 10-minute walk to the main square.
Reception at Santorini Camping.
Tents at Santorini Camping. There are also doubles, triples, quadruples, and dorm rooms with bunk beds.
Pool at Santorini Camping. There’s also a cafe, bar, and mini-market.
Canava Distillery and Museum south of Fira.
Artemis, a guide at the Distillery Museum.
Άγιος Σπυρίδων (Saint Spiridon) in Messaria.
July 3
Fira.
Petite Palaces south of Fira.
Church of the Resurrection of the Lord in Imerovigli.
Breakfast at Luku Mum in Fira.
A great place to get loukoumades. (Be sure to try them if you haven’t already.)
July 2
One of the most iconic scenes in Santorini is the Catholic Church of the Dormition, also known as the Three Bells of Fira. (Though actually located in Firostefani.)
My favorite gelato shop in Santorini – Zotos in Fira.
Art & Icon Studio in Fira selling handmade souvenirs and Byzantine icons.
The shop is hidden down a lane and some steps off the main path.
View of Skaros Rock on the Fira to Firostefani path.
July 1
A plane flying over Kamari to land at the Santorini airport just a few miles away.
Erotokritos Bakery in Kamari.
Sirocco Pizza in Perissa.
Wood fired pizza.
Delicious.
Costas, owner of Sirocco.
June 30
Early morning at Luno Cafe. My favorite coffee spot in Oia.
Astarte Suites near Akrotiri.
Lunch at Aeolos Tavern near Akrotiri.
View of caldera from inside Aeolos.
Horiatiki (Greek salad) and saganaki (fried cheese).
Moussaka: A classic Greek dish made with layers of eggplant, potatoes, and ground meat, topped with bechamel sauce. So good!
Brizola (steak) with potatoes and souvlaki with potatoes.
June 29
Fresh seafood with a view at To Psaraki in Vlychada.
Dish of the day: Swordfish souvlaki with potatoes.
Grilled manouri cheese with homemade pesto.
Overlooking the marina …
… in Vlychada.
View of the island, looking north from the Venetian Castle in Akrotiri.
Venetian Castle.
Path to the Venetian Castle.
Classic local home in Akrotiri.
Monolithos Beach had high winds and rough waves today. It’s the most shallow beach and great for families with kids.
Waves hitting the shore in Monolithos. Some ferries were cancelled today due to rough seas.
June 28
Baxedes beach near Oia.
Baxedes beach.
Cable car running from Fira to the Old Port (Skala Pier).
Irini’s Cafe overlooking Fira.
“Why Not?” gyro joint on the main path through Firostefani.
June 27
New Bar Volkan, located next to the Fira bus station. Offers sports viewing, starting when it gets dark.
Wedding shots in Imerovigli.
Anogi restaurant in Imerovigli. A personal favorite.
June 26
Saint George Ksexreotis Holy Orthodox Church near Vourvoulos. Built in 1750.
Vlychada marina.
Vlychada marina with To Psaraki restaurant on the cliff above. (Great food.)
Santorini Brewing Company in Mesa Gonia.
June 25
Oia.
The Ammoudi Bay port busy with deliveries and the morning ferry to Thirassia (daily departures at 8:00 AM, 12:30 PM, and 5:20 PM).
Even early morning can be busy in Oia.
Staurós Church in Oia.
Proton Minimarket in Oia. Open 7 AM to 1 PM.
A couple of tourists at the Milopetra bakery in Fira.
Locals picking cherry tomatoes.
June 24
Perissa Beach.
Bikes to rent at Perissa Beach from Exi Experiences.
Venus Sunrise Suites & Villas in Vourvoulos Village. This is the quiet side of the island and not on the caldera. Sunrise views instead of sunset.
Paralia Agios Nikolaos, next to Exo Gialos harbor.
Yalos in Exo Gialos. One of our favorite beach restaurants in Santorini. Delicious!
Walkers on the Fira-Oia path.
A view of Skaros Rock and the caldera on the path between Imerovigli and Oia.
June 23
Akrotiri pier where daily boat trips to Red Beach and White Beach depart from.
Water side taverns on the beach of Akrotiri – Cave of Stolida and Cave of Nikolas.
Amoni Jewelry Workshop in Emporio Kastelli.
Owned and operated by Angeliki Katsira. Handmade and custom-made jewelry.
Sunday Mass at the Panagia Mesani Church in Emporio.
June 22
Traditional houses in Emporio.
The Old Barbershop kafeneio inside the Kastelli of Emporio
Agios Charalambos Church in Exo Gonia.
Leather shoes, wallets, and belts at Kamari Sandal Workshop.
A three-generation family business run by Georgos Vlachos.
Early morning at Kamari beach.
Waiting for the bus to Fira.
A mailbox on Kamari beach. Don’t forget to send your postcards.
June 21
The view of the volcano from Volkan On The Rocks in Firostefani.
Volkan plays Mamma Mia every night at 9pm. (Reserve in advance.)
Hiking sign in Pyrgos village for the path to Profitis Ilias, Ancient Thira, and two other churches.
View towards Fira and Oia from Profitis Ilias.
View towards Perissa from Profitis Ilias.
Donkeys in Pyrgos village.
June 20
Table and chairs at Charoula Canteen near the Akrotiri Lighthouse.
Akrotiri Lighthouse.
A swing with a view.
Looking north from Akrotiri into the caldera.
Johnnie’s Cafe in Pyrgos.
Brusco Wine & Coffee Deli in Pyrgos.
June 19
Pori Beach.
Pori Port.
Restaurants and beachfront walkway in Kamari.
Ice cream in Kamari.
Kamari Square.
Windmills outside of Oia.
Passaris Bakery in Oia.
Looking towards Imerovigli from Oia.
A flying dress photoshoot in Imerovigli.
Honeymoon Petra Villas (with the volcano in the background) in Imerovigli.
Imerovigli looking towards Oia, with the pools at Tholos Resort and Astra Suites visisble.
Avaton Resort in Imerovigli and the start of the walking path to Oia.
June 18
Breakfast at Vitrin Cafe in Oia.
Oia.
Oia.
A lineup for photos in Oia.
Art gallery in Megalochori.
Santorini Museum of Contemporary Art in Megalochori.
Mr Scoop for great ice cream in Megalochori’s main square.
June 17
A Greek Orthodox priest walking to work in Fira.
Tourists grabbing some photos.
A back alley in Fira.
Stores opening for the day in Fira.
Early morning deliveries in Fira.
A church in Firostefani.
Enjoying the caldera view in Firostefani.
June 16
Fishing boat in Vlychada.
Tranquilo Bar in Perissa.
Morning coffee at Penelope’s Ouzeri in Pyrgos.
Browsing for souvenirs in Pyrgos.
June 15
Atlantis Books new location in Firostefani.
Lifeguards preparing for the day at Perissa Beach.
Santa Irini Bakery in Persissa. Inexpensive and authentic Greek pastries.
Looking from Emporio towards Perissa Beach – the best sand of all the Santorini beaches.
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