Explore more of
Country
Greece
Passport Validity
Six months of remaining validity recommended.
Visa Requirements
Not required if you have European passport
Language Spoken
Greek - English
Currency Used
Euro
For more information on transportation, trip preparation, shopping, and other useful travel tips click the link below to view our full travel guide.
Travel Experience
Discover
The Island of Santorini
Santorini is truly unique, not only for Greece but worldwide. This iconic destination is most known for its breathtaking views of the red and brown layers of volcanic ash that make up its famous cliffs. In fact, everything seems to be perched on these cliffs from its many boutique luxury hotels to its fabulous restaurants. It’s no surprise that it consistently shows up on the top 10 lists of the most romantic vacation spots in the world.
In terms of accommodation, Santorini just might be the luxury boutique hotel capital of the world! It is the traditional architecture of small houses built in the side of the cliffs that make these properties unique. The amazing caldera views will make you feel like your room is part of the blue waters of the Aegean! Our selection is based on best views, location, ease of access, and of course a high standard of service. Note that many caldera properties have many stairs, making it unsuitable for older guests and very young children.
Dining
Dining
Because of the high quality of visitors who flock to Santorini each year, the island has a reputation for being exclusive. In the past few years, some of the most talented Greek chefs have opened restaurants here. Their cuisine is part of the good food movement of contemporary Greek cuisine and the many local recipes of the island which are based on the high quality of ingredients produced on the island’s nutritious volcanic soil. Fava beans and tomatoes, being the most popular of these ingredients, along with the famous Santorini wine make for a gastronomic experience of the highest quality. However, the difficult part is not knowing where to eat as much as securing tables at these establishments, even in the peak season of August.
Summer
The Beaches of Santorini
Vlychada
The beach follows a smooth descent. You will notice as you approach, there are two large chimneys. One is directly behind the beach and is one nearby. Don’t worry about this because this factory is no longer in use and the brick structures are quite pleasant to look at.
Monolithos
The beach of Monolithos is close to the beach of Kamari, in the area near the airport of Santorini. It is quite popular among the locals, especially families. It is long with black sand and shallow waters, well-organized with sunbeds and umbrellas.
Red Beach
Red Beach is arguably one of the most famous and beautiful beaches of Santorini. It is located only some steps away from the ancient site of Akrotiri. The small size of the beach creates a much-crowded atmosphere, and there are many days where visitors choose not to make it all the way down to the beach and instead admire this unique landscape of red and black volcanic rocks from the headland. Access to the beach is relatively simple. You can leave your car at the parking space and continue all the way down to the beach – taking only about two minutes. As you gradually get down to the beach, you will be impressed by the different colors of the cliffs. Many sunbeds and umbrellas cover the dark sand. Snorkeling is highly recommended due to the interesting rocks!
White Beach
The cove right next to the Red beach, on the southern side of Santorini, is known as the White Beach. It is very similar to the Red Beach, with black pebbles on the shore, only that the surrounding cliffs are white. This beach is accessible by boat or on foot from the Red Beach. It is less popular than the neighboring cove and therefore quieter. It doesn’t have facilities, except for some umbrellas and sun beds along the coast, although the surrounding rocks provide some shade.
Culture
Unique Experiences – Private Sunset Sailing Cruise
Charter a private sailing yacht and cruise along the Caldera, Thirassia and the crater of the volcano. Enjoy dinner the unique sunset of Santorini on board and in total privacy!
Getting there
Getting There
BY AIRPLANE – Santorini Airport is served by domestic flights from Athens Airport and direct flights from major European cities.
BY FERRY – The island is easy to reach by boat from the port of Piraeus. The journey takes 4 hours if you take the highspeed ferry and twice that time on the conventional ferry. Santorini is also connected to the rest of the Cyclades with daily trips to Paros, Mykonos, Naxos, and Crete. Depending on the type of experience you are looking for, we will suggest the best islands you can combine in Santorini & Mykonos.