Planning a memorable trip to explore Santorini Island with family, your lover or friends? Here’s the ultimate guide for first-time travelers in Santorini, a stunning destination known for breathtaking views that should be on every nature and adventure lover’s bucket list.

When is the best time to visit Santorini? 

While there’s no bad time to visit this beautiful island, the optimal time depends on your needs and preferences. Typically, the best months are from May to October, offering suitable weather and temperatures. If you prefer summer, plan your trip between June and September for hot and sunny weather, ideal for activities like swimming and sunbathing. For a quieter experience with lower prices, consider April, May, or October. August is the hottest month of the summer in Greece, so we do not recommend it.

How many days are needed to explore Santorini? 

Ideally, a five-day trip is sufficient to explore the top attractions and enjoy various experiences on this beautiful island.

Where should first-time visitors stay? 

Santorini Island has several villages and spots that are famous for their wild, natural beauty.

The caldera edge is one of the best places to stay, situated almost 330 meters above sea level, featuring whitewashed houses across a 16 km area, including the extraordinary beauty of Oia, Fira, Firostefani, and Imerovigli. In the summer, the entire area is bathed in magnificent sunlight, offering breathtaking views.

What are the top things to do? 

Known for its remarkable volcanic features, Caldera, and stunning sunsets, Santorini is a must-visit island with exceptional natural beauty and awe-inspiring attractions. While often considered a romantic destination for couples, it offers a diverse range of activities and places for everyone to see, try, and explore. 

How can I get around?

Navigating Santorini is a breeze, offering a range of affordable transportation options. Whether you opt for a rental car, motorbike, quad, taxi, or local bus, these choices ensure convenient and reliable travel from the airport to Fira and throughout the island.

What type of cuisine will I find?

Santorini stands for its grastronomy, showcasing a diverse array of delectable dishes at reasonable prices.

From Mediterranean and Italian to Chinese and other international or ethnic cuisines, the island caters to every palate. Yet, the true essence lies in experiencing Greek cuisine, particularly the local specialties.

Renowned for appetizing creations and high-quality dishes, Santorini’s gastronomic scene beckons amid stunning views and a welcoming atmosphere. Explore a myriad of dining options, including restaurants, traditional Greek taverns, and late-night street food offerings. Don’t forget the wine tasting. Santorini, with a rich tradition in the production, processing, and export of wine, stands as the ultimate destination for wine lovers.

Extra information

We have collected some extra useful information to familiarize yourself before embarking on your Santorini adventure.

• While Greek is the official language, English is widely spoken, making communication effortless. The staff in most businesses mainly in hotels French, German and other idioms are spoken as well.
• The Euro (€) is the official currency, and ATMs and banks are scattered across the island for currency exchange.
• Like in most European countries, Greece uses the Type C electrical plug or Europlug so if you don’t have this electric type you will need an adaptor. The electric current is 220 volt.
• Greece follows right-hand traffic, crucial for those planning to rent a car. Non-European travelers must obtain a European driving license.

Santorini boasts a developed infrastructure, providing essential facilities like hospitals, health services, and private doctors for a seamless and enjoyable stay. Read more about medical assistance in Santorini here.