A Greek island where volcanic soil, whitewashed houses and endless blue meet: Santorini. Located in Greece, in the middle of the Aegean Sea, at the southern tip of the Cyclades, this island tells a completely different story, not only with the sunset in Oia, but also with its great transformations throughout history, characteristic architecture, local production and quiet villages.
Santorini may be known for its scenic towns lined up around the caldera, but to understand the soul of this island, you need to look deeper. Whether it’s leaving the crowds of Fira and wandering the stone streets of Pyrgos, tracing a past buried in volcanic ashin Akrotiri or walking along the black beaches where the sea meets the lava soil… Every stop on this island is like a layer, both physical and emotional.
In Santorini, you can have coffee in a quiet square in the early morning, taste wine from local producers in the afternoon, swim in the cool waters of the Aegean in the afternoon and greet the sunset on a windswept terrace. This is an Aegean island that is both magical and very real.
In this guide we offer an itinerary that covers different corners of the island , not limited to Oia and Fira: Lesser-known villages such as Pyrgos, Megalochori, Emporio; the archaeological site of Akrotiri; different sandy beaches such as Red Beach and Black Beach; local wineries, taverns, hiking trails and accommodation suggestions, focusing on a more intimate and natural side of Santorini.
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If you’re ready, let’s begin.
Santorini’s season is long but busy: From late April to mid-October, the island is bustling and the weather is usually sunny. However, the most pleasant periods to visit are definitely May and September-October. During these months, the temperature is more balanced and the narrow streets of the island are filled with wind, not crowds. Santorini is not an island that stands out with its sea tourism, but considering that it is an arid island, it should be avoided during the extremely hot months when the tourist density is high.
July and August are the hottest and most crowded time on the island. It is almost impossible to find a seat at the sunset viewing spots in Oia. Prices of hotels and restaurants also peak during this period.
These transitional seasons are particularly suitable for experiences such as nature walks, village excursions and wine tasting.
Even though Santorini is a small island, every corner offers a different experience.
If you are planning to travel only between Fira and Oia, a weekend, 2-3 days, may be enough. During this time you can watch the sunset, stay in a hotel overlooking the caldera, swim at Red Beach or Black Beach, and attend a wine tasting.
But if you want to discover the true spirit of the island, get off the tourist trail and spend time in quieter villages, we recommend at least 4-5 days. This way you can visit traditional settlements such as Pyrgos and Megalochori, get lost in the narrow streets of Emporio, trace the traces of an ancient civilization at the Akrotiri archaeological site and take swimming breaks at the volcanic beaches on the east coast of the island.
Santorini is also full of slow but profound experiences such as hiking, wine tasting, photography and local cuisine. The more time you take, the more stories Santorini will tell you.
Taverns:
Bar / Cafe:
Tasting:
Beaches:
Accommodation:
We stayed at @athina_luxury_suites as a guest of @visitgreecegr on this trip. This is a boutique hotel with great views, rooms with jacuzzi, we were very satisfied. We had breakfast every morning on the balcony in front of our room.
We rented a car with Ankor Travel for transportation within the island, it was very relaxing for us to pick up and drop off from the airport and be free during the whole trip. We did not have any problems with parking, there are free parking lots in all villages. The parking lot in Fira was also very close to our hotel.
The first thing that comes to mind when you think of Santorini is probably the view; but there are also plenty of tavernas that do justice to this view or that make a name for themselves not with their view but with their taste. In addition to high expectations and expensive places, taverns that preserve the local texture and serve simple but delicious dishes still carry the spirit of the island. In this guide, we have gathered the taverna culture, wine experiences and memorable dishes from the places we tried. Although Santorini is a place that attracts so many tourists from all over the world, we were very happy that the places we ate were at the top level in terms of service and taste.
Roza’s (Vourvoulos)
A family-run establishment in the village of Vourvoulos, a little north of the island. It doesn’t have any view or pretentious decoration. Their menu is also quite simple, but it is always updated and everything is freshly made there. A talented chef, Georgian Mrs. Katerina and her husband run the restaurant by themselves. Frequently recommended by both Greek and foreign food writers, the menu is full of interesting dishes. Scandinavian Sea offers a simple yet heartfelt dining experience with shrimp with black ravioli, pastrami fritters and a good Santorini wine. It is better to go with a reservation, there are few tables.
Metaxi Mas (Exo Gonia)
One of the most recommended places on the island, and its reputation is well deserved. It is located on an elevated position and has a spacious atmosphere, although there is no sunset. It blends flavors from Cretan and Santorini cuisine. Tomato meatballs, beet salad, dolma and grilled chicken with vegetables were our favorites.
To Psaraki (Vlychada Port)
It looks like a shabby fishermen’s tavern in the port, but the presentation and flavor are quite refined. The owners previously ran fine-dine restaurants for a long time before opening this place. It stands out with its daily fresh fish, grilled calamari, fried potatoes and Santorini salad. Ideal for a simple and peaceful lunch or dinner by the sea.
The Cave of Nikolas (Akrotiri)
One of the oldest taverns on the island. It is very special with its historical structure carved into the rocks, tables stretching over the sea and nostalgic atmosphere. Seafood is predominant and the service is friendly. Tomato meatballs, mussels with tomato sauce, seafood orzo, eggplant salad, sardines and house wine are excellent.
Fish Tavern O Perivolos (Perivolos Beach)
A seaside setting so cozy you can sit at the table barefoot. Grilled plates made with daily caught fish, accompanied by classic Santorini flavors and Greek appetizers. A nice address for a cool break after the beach. Here we tried the island’s famous sausages, tomato meatballs and tirokafteri.
Faros Santorini (Akrotiri)
A small family business. They prepare simple but elaborate dishes with their own wine, grains and tomatoes. Especially at lunchtime, away from the crowds, it is as delicious and light as if your mother had prepared it at home. The lame donkey that greets you at the door and Maria’s stories make this place unforgettable. Be sure to chat with her and listen to what she has done for the island. You can also buy many products from the island here.
Skala
One of Oia’s cozy tavernas without a sunset view. It’s right in the middle of the crowded streets, but you meet the non-cliché face of the island while having your meal. The chef of this place, Iraklis Mazi, is an Istanbul lover. They often travel to Istanbul every year. He and his wife have a delightful orchard behind the restaurant, and when he heard that we were coming from Istanbul, he first showed us around his orchard. We picked the island’s famous tomatoes, eggplants and spices together. Afterwards, he prepared appetizers off the special menu for us because he loves Istanbul so much. Everything was delicious and fresh.
Lava Tavern (Perissa)
Located at the quiet end of Perissa beach, overlooking the sea, it offers a real Greek taverna atmosphere away from the tourist crowds. The menu includes classic local delicacies such as moussaka, dolmades, stuffed Santorini tomatoes, grilled sardines, and they adopt a kitchen approach that does not use frozen products and works with fresh ingredients every day. It is one of the places where you can dine in an authentic Greek tavern atmosphere on the beach.
Santorinia Tavern (Fira)
A family-run restaurant full of classic Greek food. Very close to the hotel we stayed at in Fira and with a great sunset view, this restaurant was one of the liveliest places we visited. Even though it was a weekday, we were already mesmerized by the live music and the beautiful sunset. We started with watermelon salad, ceviche, fries, scallops and eggplant pate with garlic and then tried souvlaki.
Oia Oenosart (Oia)
It is like a liberated area away from the crowded streets in Oia, there is no view but it is a place that stands out with its pleasant atmosphere. They offer different menus in the morning and at noon, the menus are simple but the wine pairings and plate presentations are successful. Instead of classic Santorini flavors , there are more modern plates, we tried the charcuterie plate from the Cyclades islands, artichoke salad, octopus carpaccio and linguine with bottarga. It can also be preferred for a light drink and a snack in the evening.
Santo Wines (near Pyrgos)
One of the oldest and most important wine producers in Santorini. The Assyrtiko grapes are native to the island, grown in volcanic soil and produced with vines with roots dating back thousands of years. Tasting wine against the sunset on the winery terrace can be one of the most special memories of Santorini. It is better to go with a reservation.
The accommodation experience in Santorini is part of the vacation itself. From luxury hotels overlooking the caldera to stone houses in the island’s interior and boutique apartments by the beach, there’s something for every budget and travel style.
Here are 9 suggestions to choose between landscape, aesthetics, comfort and simplicity:
For those seeking luxury and serenity. Located away from the crowds of Oia, facing the sea and the sunset. It is the favorite of honeymooners with its infinity pool and stylish details. It is one of the most famous luxury hotels on the island, so you should book as far in advance as possible. €1000+ per night
Perfect for a scenic, romantic escape. It offers jacuzzi rooms with views of the caldera, minimal whitewashed design and a quiet environment. €500+ per night
For those who can’t give up the central location but don’t want to compromise on comfort.
Right in the center of Fira but with a peaceful terrace and pool overlooking the caldera. €250+ per night
A pleasant and comfortable stay is possible even without a view of the caldera.
Clean, simple and central. Affordable and practical, especially for longer stays. €75+ per night
A village house experience where traditional texture meets comfort.
offers an isolated yet aesthetic vacation in the quiet of Pyrgos, with private terrace and jacuzzi views. €120+ per night
The comfort of a boutique hotel in a village atmosphere.
Surrounded by stone streets, this hotel is perfect for a relaxing getaway with its modern, restored rooms and spa facilities. €200+ per night
Affordable, friendly and close to the beach.
An ideal alternative for families or long stays. The rooms are simple but cozy, there is a market and restaurants around. €160+ per night
8. Kýma Santorini – Perissa
An aesthetic and simple boutique hotel a few steps away from the black sandy beaches.
With its minimal design, pool and tranquil environment, it is ideal for those who want to have a beach vacation. €55+ per night
Secret Routes Away from the Crowds in Santorini
When you think of Santorini, most people think of watching the sunset in Oia, taking photos in the narrow streets or hotels overlooking the caldera. Yes, these are some of the things that make the island famous. But Santorini is much more than that; it’s full of villages, local businesses and cultural stops waiting to be explored.
Here are the routes where you can escape the crowds and feel the true spirit of the island:
1. Little Known Villages: Pyrgos, Megalochori, Emporio, Karterados
When you move a little away from the center of Santorini, you encounter quieter but equally impressive villages.
2. Uncrowded Beaches and Calm Bays
Red Beach is very famous but it is both difficult to reach and crowded. You can go for quieter alternatives instead:
3. Non-Tourist Restaurants
The view is usually the first criterion when choosing a restaurant in Santorini, but there are some places that impress you with a spirit that does not look like the view.
Roza’s is a simple but delicious family-run restaurant near the center of the island. Run by a Georgian and Greek couple, this small restaurant speaks for its food.
Faros Santorini, on the other hand, offers a menu that is not touristy but makes you feel the land and production of the island in every dish. Both places are low-key, but friendly and attentive. If you want to follow the locals, these two are the ideal stops. We will tell you about all the places we ate in Santorini in the guide.
4. Wine, Beer and Ouzo Experience
Thanks to its volcanic soils, Santorini is home to some of Greece’s most authentic wines.
5. A Cultural Treasure: Symposion Cultural Center
If you ask us what was the most impressive cultural experience on the island, our answer is without hesitation: Symposion Cultural Center.
An old winery built in the early 1900s in the village of Megalochori… Today, it is a unique cultural stop where mythology, music and craft are intertwined. Greek musician Yannis Pantazis and his wife Argy Kakissis restored this building with their own hands, without any institutional support. The result is one of the most unique cultural projects not only in Santorini but also in the Aegean.
Symposion is a multi-layered space offering traditional instrument making workshops, interactive shows, periodic exhibitions, live music concerts and mythology narratives. It has an atmosphere that draws you in from the moment you enter – a place where time slows down and sound and story take center stage.
Yannis Pantazis handcrafts Aegean instruments that are about to disappear. He is not only a local but also an internationally recognized craftsman. His instruments and music have already been featured in big productions like Gladiator 2, and now he will be featured in Christopher Nolan’s new movie. But when you meet him, you will see that instead of bragging, he prefers to take you to his studio and talk about music and our common cultures with a naive enthusiasm.
Symposion’s programs appeal to both adults and children. With its café open every day except Mondays, it creates not only a cultural but also a social meeting point. You can join a workshop and make your own instrument or just sit and sip a drink in the stone courtyard.
Mythical Music Presentation & Historical Tour takes place every day at 12.00 pm, so it’s a good idea to book your place in advance.
For us, Santorini was much more than landscapes, beaches and sunsets. It was a story created with a true spirit, labor and passion.
6. Open Air Cinema Experience
One of the most enjoyable activities of summer evenings in Santorini: open-air cinema.
7. History, Museum and Art
Santorini is not just about Oia. There is a whole other side waiting to be discovered with little-known villages, local flavors, cultural routes and hidden coves. For those who want to escape the crowds, these routes are priceless.
By 2025, Santorini will be much easier to reach.
As of this year, Aegean Airlines has launched direct flights from Istanbul Airport to Santorini. Flights take approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes and operate several days a week during the summer season. This season, the same airline has also launched flights to Crete, Mykonos and Rhodes. If you want to explore not only Santorini but also a few other islands, it is possible to create a plan that can be combined with these routes.
Santorini has a small but highly organized airport. After getting off the plane, you can reach many points of the island in less than 30 minutes.
Alternatively, there is the option of connecting flights via Athens. From Athens to Santorini there are both domestic flights and fast or regular ferries from the ports. Travel time by ferry varies between 4 and 8 hours.
A more laborious option, but one that can be added to some Greek Island itineraries, is to fly to neighboring islands (e.g. Naxos, Paros, Mykonos) and then take a ferry to Santorini. However, such combinations are usually more suitable for travelers who have a few days to spare and want to see different islands.
Although going to Santorini by cruise is technically an option, we do not recommend this method.
Cruise tours usually stay on the island for only a few hours and are limited to a short photo break at 1-2 tourist spots such as Oia or Fira. However, Santorini is not just a place to “see and pass by”; it is an island that opens itself up with time, with streets to walk, local producers, quiet villages and quiet mornings. For this reason, a trip with a stay of a few days instead of a cruise offers a much more meaningful experience.
Even though Santorini is a small island, it is important to plan transportation as the villages and beaches are far apart. The best way to explore while taking in the scenery is in a vehicle where you can move freely.
On this trip, we rented our car through Ankor Travel, a local company that offers both car rental and transfer services in Santorini. We usually find the most affordable car rental options through the Discover Cars app and book in advance. Delivery from the airport and communication was very convenient. The same company also offers services such as private tours and airport transfers. Renting a car is a sensible option for those who want to visit uncrowded villages, reach the beaches easily and make spontaneous plans for sunrise/sunset.
For those who do not want to drive, there are public buses operated by KTEL. Timetables vary according to the season.
Fira is the hub of all bus lines and you can transfer to other villages or beaches from here. However, the buses can be crowded during the summer months and there may be no late night service.
You can find the schedule at this link:
👉 KTEL Santorini Bus Timetable (PDF)
Another special experience of the island is boat tours. A boat tour is a must to see the bays overlooking the caldera, swim in the hot springs and explore the volcanic islands. Our recommendation:
Sunset Oia Sailing
Offering half-day or full-day sailing tours, this company stands out especially with its sunset tour. Boat tours make sense especially for beaches such as Red Beach and White Beach, which are a bit inconvenient to reach by land.
