How to plan a trip to Santorini, Greece (2026)

Learn how to plan a trip to Santorini with expert tips on flights, ferries, hotels, best time to visit, & the top things to do in Santorini.

Santorini is one of the most iconic islands in Greece — famed for its dramatic caldera views, whitewashed cliffside villages, unforgettable sunsets, and volcanic beaches.

First things first, let’s get this out the way – Santorini is my idea of paradise. Cool beaches, amazing seafood, completely unique geography – and an alright view! It is stunning all year round and Santorini in the Winter is just spectacular.

Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for another adventure, this guide has everything you need to plan the perfect Santorini getaway.

How to plan a trip to Santorini

Why visit Santorini?

Santorini is known for its white-washed houses and blue rooftops, but there is more to this Instagrammable destination. The surface of the island is unique after a volcanic eruption transformed it centuries ago. That means the towns in Santorini almost spill over the land and give magnificent views no matter where you are, making it a must on your Greece bucket list.

You can witness beautiful sunsets in Santorini and there are plenty of luxurious hotels for you to choose from too. There are some gorgeous beaches in Santorini alongside historic sites that date back to the Bronze Age.

How to get to Santorini

When learning how to plan a trip to Santorini, first you need to focus on getting there. There are three options for arrival to Santorini – fly or ferry.

Fly

The Santorini Airport is tiny – it technically has six gates, but I have only ever seen one open. Middle of high season the flights can be pricy and from most places outside of continental Europe, you will have to change planes in Athens, or another major hub.

The airport is well connected to the rest of the island by road, and both buses and taxis are available when you arrive. Most hotels and hostels also offer airport pick-ups, either for free around the most popular times or for a small fee.

You can also get a chartered helicopter flight if you are staying in one of the luxury hotels on the caldera but I couldn’t tell you how much it is because all prices are on the request of booking!

Ferry

When we looked at how to plan a trip to Santorini, I choose to arrive by boat. Yes, it is slow (up to 7 hours from Athens) but it is, to me, quintessentially Greek to arrive on the island by sea. The islands have been travelled to by boat for millennia – and I guess in this case I am a big romantic. It is also cheap, even in high season I have never paid more than 60 euros return.

You can also get fast boats which take a much shorter time, but I feel so cramped inside – I like to be up on deck in the wind and the sun.

You get fantastic views, see the harbours of other islands, and experience the dark sea!

The port is well serviced by taxis, and hotels offer pick-up, as well as several car and bike rental places.

Where to stay in Santorini?

There are two big towns in Santorini, Fira and Oia, both deserve a visit. But the island does have other towns!

Oia

The home of the famous, much-photographed, and iconic sunset. Because, you know, the sun doesn’t set anywhere else on the island. Or so you would think if you were to listen to the tour sellers! Oia is beautiful, and the sunset is incredible, but the best thing in Oia for me is Atlantis Bookstore. A lovely little cave house turned meandering into a well-stocked bookshop.

Sure, go for the sunset, but don’t miss the unique places the town itself encompasses. Every view of the sunset is spectacular, and my favourite is at Santo Wines with a tasting flight and cheese plate!

Buses run from Fira regularly, and you can stay in Oia in a range of accommodations from a hostel to extreme luxury apartments. Whether your are a couple, a family or a solo female travelling in Greece, Oia is a picturesque, safe place to stay.

Fira

(or Thera on some maps)

Fira is the largest town on the island – it has the fancy shops and the bangin’ clubs. You can stay in Fira for much better rates than Oia, there is a great backpackers in Fira as well.

You can also find the most extravagant luxury accommodation there – a few years ago rumour had it that a royal paid over $10,000 USD per night for a luxury suite at an unnamed studio!

Fira is a great place to stop though, the bars there have the best view – especially at night when you can look out and see Oia sparkling!

Imerovigli

Imerovigli is often described as the hidden gem of Santorini, offering the same dramatic caldera views as Oia but with far fewer crowds; one of the more romantic honeymoon destinations in Europe.

Located just north of Fira, this peaceful village sits at one of the island’s highest points, earning it the nickname the balcony of the Aegean. It is an excellent choice for travelers who want breathtaking scenery without the constant foot traffic found in more tourist-heavy areas.

Many hotels in Imerovigli are built into the cliffs and feature infinity pools, private terraces, and uninterrupted sunset views. The sunsets here are just as spectacular as those in Oia, but you can enjoy them in a calmer and more romantic setting. Imerovigli is particularly popular with couples, honeymooners, and travelers looking for a quieter, more refined atmosphere.

The village is also a great base for exploring Santorini on foot, perfect when looking at how to plan a trip to Santorini on a budget. The famous Fira to Oia hiking trail passes directly through Imerovigli, making it ideal for scenic walks along the caldera. Despite its relaxed feel, Imerovigli still has excellent restaurants, cocktail bars, and easy access to Fira, which is only a short walk or bus ride away.

Kamari and Perissa

Kamari and Perissa are two of the best areas to stay in Santorini if you prefer being close to the beach or are traveling on a tighter budget. Located on the east and southeast sides of the island, these coastal towns are known for their long stretches of black volcanic sand and laid-back seaside atmosphere.

Kamari is a lively beach town with a well-developed promenade lined with restaurants, cafes, and beach bars. It is a popular choice for families and first-time visitors who want easy access to organized beaches, water sports, and a wide range of accommodations. Kamari is also conveniently located near Santorini Airport, making it a practical option for shorter stays.

Perissa, located just south of Kamari, has a slightly more relaxed and spacious feel. Its beach is one of the longest on the island, offering plenty of room even during peak summer months. Perissa is especially popular with budget travelers, backpackers, and those who want a slower pace without sacrificing amenities. The area has affordable hotels, casual tavernas, and excellent bus connections to Fira and other parts of the island.

While Kamari and Perissa do not offer caldera views, they make up for it with easier beach access, lower accommodation costs, and a more local feel. Staying in these areas allows travelers to balance sightseeing in Oia and Fira with relaxing beach days, making them ideal for longer stays or more budget-conscious Santorini trips.

Top Things to Do in Santorini

There are so many things to do on Santorini that I had trouble selecting them for this section. Rather than my personal favourite things, here are the things that I spoke with tourists about the most while living on the island, all ideal for those wanting to know how to plan a trip to Santorini.

• Watch the Sunset from the Caldera

Watching the sunset is one of the most iconic things to do in Santorini. Oia is the most famous sunset spot, but it is also the most crowded. For a more relaxed experience, head to Imerovigli, Fira, or a caldera-view restaurant where you can enjoy the sunset without the crowds.

Arrive early in peak season to secure a good viewing spot. Sunset cruises are also a popular option, offering incredible views from the water as the cliffs glow gold and pink.

• Explore the Ancient City of Akrotiri

When learning how to plan a trip to Santorini, Akrotiri is one of the most important archaeological and historical sites in Greece. This Bronze Age settlement was buried by volcanic ash around 1600 BC, preserving multi-story buildings, streets, and advanced drainage systems. Visiting Akrotiri offers insight into Santorini’s ancient history and daily life long before the famous eruption.

The site is fully covered and well signposted, making it an easy and informative stop, especially on hot days. Combine your visit with nearby Red Beach or the Akrotiri Lighthouse.

• Visit Santorini’s Unique Beaches

Santorini’s volcanic history has created some of the most unusual beaches in Greece. Red Beach is known for its dramatic red cliffs and is best viewed from the water or nearby paths. Perissa and Kamari beaches feature black volcanic sand, beach clubs, and clear swimming waters.

For a quieter experience, head to Vlychada Beach, which has sculpted rock formations and fewer crowds. These beaches offer a different side of Santorini beyond the caldera.

• Take a Volcano and Hot Springs Boat Tour

A boat tour to the Santorini volcano is one of the most popular excursions on the island. Tours typically include a hike on Nea Kameni, the volcanic island in the center of the caldera, followed by a swim in the warm sulfur hot springs near Palea Kameni.

Most tours depart from the old port in Fira or from Athinios Port. Catamaran cruises often include meals, snorkeling stops, and sunset views, making them a great option for couples.

• Hike from Fira to Oia

The Fira to Oia hike is one of the most scenic walks in Greece and a must when knowing how to plan a trip to Santorini. This cliffside trail stretches around 10 kilometers and takes approximately two to three hours, depending on pace and stops. Along the way, you will pass through Firostefani and Imerovigli, with nonstop views of the caldera.

The hike is best done early in the morning or late afternoon, especially during summer. Comfortable shoes, water, and sun protection are essential.

• Go Wine Tasting at Local Wineries

Santorini is famous for its wine, particularly Assyrtiko, which is grown in volcanic soil using a unique basket-shaped vine technique. Visiting a winery is one of the best ways to experience the island’s culture and landscape.

Many wineries offer tastings paired with local cheese and snacks, and several are located along the caldera for incredible views. Wine tours are also available and are a convenient way to visit multiple wineries in one afternoon.

• Explore Traditional Villages

Beyond Oia and Fira, Santorini has several traditional villages worth visiting that need to be in your itinerary when looking how to plan a trip to Santorini.

Pyrgos is a former capital with winding streets, blue-domed churches, and panoramic views from the hilltop. Megalochori offers a more local feel with quiet squares and traditional architecture.

These villages provide a slower pace and a glimpse into everyday life on the island, making them ideal stops for travelers looking to escape the busiest areas.

• Enjoy a Caldera View Meal

Dining with a caldera view is a must-do experience in Santorini. Many restaurants in Oia, Fira, and Imerovigli offer terrace seating overlooking the sea. Sunset dinner reservations are highly recommended during peak season.

Try local dishes such as fava, white eggplant, tomato fritters, and fresh seafood for an authentic taste of Santorini.

• Visit the Santorini Volcano and Museums

For travelers interested in geology and culture, the Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Fira provides valuable context to Santorini’s volcanic past. The Tomato Industrial Museum in Vlychada is another unique stop, highlighting the island’s agricultural history.

These museums are great options for cooler mornings or days when the weather is too hot for outdoor activities.

• Relax with a Boat or Sailing Experience

When looking at how to plan a trip to Santorini, Catamaran cruises around Santorini are one of the most relaxing ways to explore the island. Many tours include stops at beaches only accessible by boat, snorkeling opportunities, meals, and unlimited drinks. Sunset sailing tours are particularly popular and often sell out quickly.

Santorini Travel tips:

• Spend three days here, minimum, when looking at how to plan a trip to Santorini.

• Get an ATV (or small hire car if you’re not motorcycle-y inclined), your hostel or hotel will have partners who will give a discount but do have a scout around.

• Go to the lighthouse (Pharos or Faros on signs) and check out the view of the whole island, it is beautiful!

• Read about Akotiri – it’s a very cool, preserved town from the major eruption. However, if you’re not a big archaeology fan I would suggest the museum in Fira instead of the ruins themselves.

• If you want a nice experience, go to Santo Wines for a flight or some snacks and check out the view. However, the best wine I have ever had in my life is from Hatzidakis Wines in the middle of the island. Had I the funding and the liquids allowance, I would have purchased seven out of the eight wines we tried there.

• Get down to Perissa beach, and hang out there – it is so much calmer than Fira and the black sand beach is awesome.

Things to Know Before you go to Santorini

How to plan a trip to Santorini FAQ

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