Santorini  or Thira is one of the most popular destinations in the Cyclades. The Greek island is world-renowned for its inimitable natural beauty, magical sunset, volcanic landscape, breathtaking caldera and amazing view to the Aegean Sea.

You can take a plane from Athens to Santorini. You can easily get a direct flight to Athens from the USA, the UK and Canada. The code of Athens’ International Airport is ATH while that of Santorini’s airport is JTR.

Traveling by ferry from Athens to Santorini is one of the most comfortable and affordable ways to reach the island. There are frequent ferry routes from 2 ports in Athens throughout the year, and you can choose to travel with standard or highspeed vessel.

How to get to Santorini from Athens

There are two ways to access Santorini from Athens, the capital of Greece. You can travel either by plane (Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos”) or by ferryboat (Piraeus Port). There are also links between Santorini and other Greek islands.

The airplane is the most convenient option. There are generally daily flights year-round from Athens to Santorini. For the months June to September, there will be over 15 flights per day. The primary airlines for the Athens-Santorini route are Ryan Air, EasyJet, Aegean Airlines, and Olympic Air. Flights sell out much earlier than ferries so if you see a flight that works for your itinerary then book as soon as possible. Check & Book you Flights

Ferry is definitely the way to go! Ticket prices start from around 45€ and 65€ for conventional and  high-speed ferries respectively. There is usually a 7:30 am Blue Star ferry going between Athens and Santorini every day, year-round. Starting in late March and early April SeaJets and Golden Star Ferries begin high-speed ferry service from Athens to Santorini. In summer there will be 4 or more ferries per day from Athens to Santorini. Check & Book you Ferry Tickets

Does Santorini have access to/from other islands in Greece?

If you are visiting Santorini you can as well upgrade your travel experience by doing some of island-hopping in the surrounding islands.

You may use daily ferries and speedboats by SeaJets to commute between Santorini and Mykonos. Traveling to Santorini to/from Crete is also made easy by daily ferries that take you from Heraklion port by Minoan lines.

Daily ferries by Blue Star Ferries also help you reach Santorini from Paros or Naxos and the other way around. Moreover, Hellenic Seaways and SeaJets also offer daily ferries with high-speed boats to help you commute between Santorini and Ios.

Blue Star ferries travel between Santorini and Rhodes twice a week. Usually, it is the Blue Star 1 or Blue Star 2 boat that accommodates Santorini visitors. You can also take the weekly ferry ride to travel from Anafi to Santorini or vice versa.

Traveling by ferries to Santorini is always a fun and exciting experience. Generally, the SeaJets, Hellenic Seaways, and Minoan Lines ferries only work in the high season. In the Low season, a ferry of Blue Star runs daily to take passengers from Santorini to Athens and vice versa.

That being said, flying to Santorini is the fastest and most convenient. However, direct flights to Santorini from other Greek islands are quite rare. Some summers or perhaps from year to year, you may find direct flights from Mykonos, Rhodes, or Heraklion (Crete) to Santorini.

There are 4 main Santorini towns on the cliff along the caldera and beach areas all of them with a unique vibe, advantages

Oia – For the first time

Oia is located in the North-Western part of the island, the best area to stay in Santorini for first-time travelers. This is a charming village on the cliff, with gorgeous views of the caldera and the volcano, full of amazing restaurants and the place where you’ll see some of the most beautiful sunsets during your ultimate vacation! At the entrance of the village there is a car park where you can leave your vehicle and enjoy long walks in the picturesque paths

Fira –  Santorini’s nightlife

Fira is the largest town and the capital of Santorini, located on the caldera cliff, which can only mean one thing: the views here are simply superb! There are some really impressive hotels with amazing views to the caldera and the volcano that won’t disappoint you. At Fira, you will literally have everything at your doorstep: bars, shops, restaurants, clubs, street food (aka souvlaki)

Imerovigli – Balcony of the Aegean

If you’re looking for the most romantic, secluded and intimate town along the caldera, then we definitely recommend Imerovigli. This is also the place that offers the best sunset views out there that overlook the Aegean Sea, so it’s definitely a great choice for a relaxed vacation!

Now, we must inform you that Imerovigli doesn’t have a lot of restaurant choices but those that are there are pretty good and there are no bars and no clubs there either. This means that it’s definitely a great place for a calm getaway. The hotel choices here are amazing (especially if you’re looking for luxury) and they cater for all types of interests.

Firostefani –The Crown of Fira

If you’d like to reach Fira, Firostefani is located very close to it (only 15 minutes away by foot) and it can be actually considered an “extension” of the capital – so it’s a great choice if you want to be close to the main hub of the island but avoid the hustle and bustle and the crowds of tourists.

The village has plenty of restaurants and cafes located on the most fabulous locations but also offers some of the most impressive hotels of Santorini. There are also few shops, most of them are concentrated at the main shopping street.

Perissa – The black beach

Perissa Beach is located further away from Fira. You can always rent a car  if you’re planning on exploring the other sides of Santorini!

In terms of accommodation, Perissa caters for all types and you can find everything your heart desires from upscale villas, luxury hotels and guest houses. In terms of restaurants, you’ll have plenty of choices as well, from tavernas to upscale food places for all preferences.

Kamari – Where to stay in Santorini with a family

There are tons of amazing restaurants, cafes, taverns and shops along Kamari Beach and one of the top things to do here is to take a stroll on the beach-front alley. The beach here is very beautiful and made of pebbles and black sand, and the water is simply amazing.

In terms of convenience, Kamari Beach is only 15 minutes away from Fira. By the way, Kamari is also the place where Santorini Airport is located, so this is the place where you’ll land if you plan on going to the island by plane.

By the way, compared to the towns along the cliff, Kamari is more modern and it has plenty of contemporary buildings. If think this is the place for you, here are the best hotels in Kamari to choose from:

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1. Fira

Fira, Santorini’s capital, is one of the best places to see on the island. During your trip to Santorini, you certainly want to

• Discover the famous white and blue houses
  
• Wander in picturesque narrow alleys
• Enjoy chic boutiques and luxury hotels with infinity pools
• Admire magnificent views of the caldera.

Well, you’re lucky: Fira has all of this!It’s the perfect Cycladic town, a real postcard scenery.

Wander in the city’s alleys and discover the breathtaking viewpoints of the sea and the caldera. You will for sure fall in love with the island (even if it’s often crowded!). From Fira, follow the beautiful walking trail to reach the villages of Firostefani (only a 10-minute walk) and Imerovigli (the highest point of the caldera, 30 minutes away from Fira). Plan at least between 1 and 2 hours, as you will stop every 2 meters to enjoy the view and take pictures!

You can also walk to the small port of Fira Skala. It’s quite easy to get down the 587 steps, but getting back up can be more difficult, especially under the sun! If you’re too tired to walk, take Santorini’s cable car. During this nice ride, you will admire the island from a different angle.You can also get a ride on a donkey.

If you’re a History lover, or if you want to know more about Santorini, you can visit 2 museums in Fira: The Museum of Prehistoric Thera, exposing vestiges discovered in Akrotiri  and other archaeological excavations on Santorini. The archaeological museumand its collection of remains from all Santorini, including vases from Akrotiri.

Fira is also a great place to enjoy the nightlife in Santorini: you will find the island’s best bars, restaurants and night clubs!Try to visit Fira early in the morning, to avoid most of the crowd. The temperatures will be cooler and your stroll will be more pleasant.

2. Oia

Together with Fira, Oia is the other must-see tourist attraction in Santorini. As in Fira, you will be amazed by Oia’s pretty white houses, churches with a blue dome, and splendid views over the entire caldera!Oia is also known as the best place to enjoy the sunset in Santorini. At the end of the day, thousands of people are coming to the city for Santorini’s most famous show.

When you’ve found the perfect spot to admire the sunset, sit down and don’t leave it! And if you’re looking for a quieter and more romantic atmosphere, you should book a table in one of the many bars and restaurants. Watching the sunset while enjoying a drink is for sure an amazing experience. The best place to watch the sunset in Oia is the Byzantine Castle. Be there at least 1 or 2 hours before, so you can get a good spot.

3. Boat trip around Santorini

Boat trips are among the best things to do in Santorini.

The most famous tour is a 1-day cruise in the volcanic islands and Palea Kameni hot springs. During this day, you will explore the island of Nea Kameni and its still active volcano. You can even walk to the summit of the crater!

You will also stop at Palea Kameni hot springs to take a dip.Then, you will end your day on Thirassia island, located right in front of Santorini. As these tours are very popular, you should really book yours in advance.

Even more famous to choose, because of the privacy, is the luxury version of this cruise, on a catamaran. You will sail around Santorini, and enjoy 3 stops for swimming, including one at the hot springs. Snorkeling equipment is even included! The price includes the minibus transfer from your hotel, the guided tour, the Greek Barbecue and unlimited drinks.At the end of the day, you will also admire the beautiful sunset from the sea.

4. Hiking from Fira to Oia

If you want to enjoy magnificent viewpoints of the island and the caldera, you should hike from Fira to Oia. A 9-km long marked trail on the edge of the caldera connects the 2 cities. You will stop many times to take beautiful pictures, as the view is just breathtaking! It’s clearly one of Santorini’s best points of interest.This marked trail isn’t really difficult, even if the weather can get really hot on sunny days.  So, it’s better to hike in the morning or at the end of the day. You can for example plan your walk to arrive in Oia for the sunset. From Fira, you will reach Oia in about 2 hours. You should however plan a bit more time, as you will for sure stop a few times on the way to enjoy the panorama and take pictures.

5. Santorini’s best beaches

It’s impossible to do a definitive guide about Santorini without mentioning the best beaches of the island.If you want to take a dip in Santorini, the most famous beaches are:

• The beaches of Perissa, Perivolos and Agios Georgios: large black sand beaches with snacks and taverns
• Kamari Beach, another large black sand beach, where you can rent deckchairs and enjoy many nautical activities.
• The Red Beach, named after the volcanic ochre cliffs surrounding it. You can get there in only 5 minutes by a trail.
• The White Beach, right next to the Red Beach. You will need take a boat to get there.
• Vlihada Beach and its white rocks.
• Monolithos Beach, ideal with children with its shallow waters.
• Kolumbo Beach, only accessible by foot, and frequented by nudists.

At the main beaches, you can also enjoy a few amazing water sports!

Here are our favorites activities to book them in advance (they are extremely popular):

• Sea Kayak from Perissa beach
• A first dive with an experienced instructor or a dive on one of the most beautiful spots in Santorini if you’re an experienced diver.
• A parasailing session, to enjoy a panoramic view of the island!
• A kayak tour (small group), to discover the most beautiful landscapes of Santorini from the sea and without the crowds
• A windsurfing course
• A Stand Up Paddle excursion (always in small groups)
• A Flyboard session or of Hoverboard, the 2 trendy activities on the island!
• Take a kiteboarding course for beginners or rent a kiteboard if you are more experienced.
• Jet ski tour with an instructor.
• You will also have the choice between several different routes starting from Périvolos. You will be able to discover the beaches and the volcano of Santorini!

It’s really an unforgettable experience that needs to be booked in advance

6. Amoudi Bay

Amoudi Bay is a small fishing village located below Oia. You can get there walking down the 300 steps stairway starting from Oia. You can also drive there, but if you do, don’t go to the end of the road, as it’s difficult to turn back. Just park your car along the road and finish on foot.

From Amoudi, the view of the ochre cliffs and Oia is really beautiful.There are also a few nice taverns and restaurants on the seaside. It’s perfect if you like fresh fishes! If you want to take a dip in the sea, follow the trail after the restaurants. You will find a nice place to swim and dive into the water.

7. Do a Wine Tour in Santorini

Wine Tours are among the most popular activities in Santorini. The island is renowned for its excellent white wines, known as some of the best in Greece.You can visit many vineyards (known for being the oldest in the world!) on the island, and taste the best wines.

8. Akrotiri

If you’re interested in Santorini’s History, the ancient site of Akrotiri is one of the island’s best place to visit. This archaeological site is often compared to Pompeii, in Italy. Akrotiri is an ancient Minoan city destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 1,613 B.C. It was only rediscovered in 1967 during an archaeological excavation. The site is one of the most important in the Aegean Sea. The archaeological excavations are still on going in this very large site. Many remains are probably still undiscovered! In Akrotiri, wooden footbridges allow you to walk in the city. There, you will admire the ancient buildings, the streets and many ceramics.

9. The other best villages to visit in Santorini

During your trip to Santorini, you will certainly go to Fira and Oia. But don’t miss the island’s other villages!

• Pyrgos is Santorini’s highest village. It’s a typical Cycladic village, with a traditional architecture and splendid views of the island.
• Megalochori, with its picturesque narrow alleys.
• Messaria, in the middle of the island and the vineyards.
• Emporio, where you will find the Goulas medieval castle at the village’s entrance. There are also many small churches.

10. Ancient Thera

The Ancient Thera is another archaeological site in Santorini. “Thera” is the ancient name of Santorini. In the Middle Ages, the island was then named “Santa Irini” by the Venetians which finally became “Santorini”. Located on Mesa Vouno Hill, Thera was founded in the 9th century B.C. During your visit, you will admire many vestiges from the Hellenic, Roman and Byzantine periods. Take a stroll and discover the remains of the temples, the agora, the theatre and the gymnasium.You will also enjoy a nice view of the surroundings.

11. Thirassia

The island of Thirassia is located just in front of Oia. This crocodile-shaped island was separated from Santorini by a huge volcanic eruption. If you want to visit Thirassia, you can choose a 1-day boat trip (the one going to Nea Kameni’s volcano and hot springs also stops there) or take the boat directly from Amoudi Bay.

The island is way quieter than Santorini. During your visit, you will enjoy the charming village of Manolas and its good taverns, and enjoy a splendid view of Santorini!

Spectacular beaches and dramatic scenery characterise Santorini’s coastline

Red Beach – Red volcanic rocks

This world-famous beach is a feast for the eyes. The backdrop of red volcanic rocks not only make for stunning scenery, but also offer shelter from the gusty Aegean winds. Here you can snorkel or sunbathe on the loungers provided by the numerous tavernas and beach bars. There is a car park nearby, such as the ancient site of Akrotiri. Make sure to pack appropriate footwear, as the beach is accessible via a rugged downhill path.

Perivolos – Black lava sand

Soak up idyllic views of the Santorini caldera from this vast black lava sand and pebble beach. This lively beach is equipped with sunbeds and shower facilities, water sports options, beach volleyball courts and extensive options for eating and drinking – from local tavernas to chic beachfront cafés and lively beach bars.

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Perissa – Awarded beach

At this lively, Blue-Flag-awarded beach, visitors lounge on their sunbeds until sunset, indulging in cocktails and the soundtrack provided by international DJs playing at the hip beach bars. It’s also a hot spot for water sports, whether it’s jet skis or banana boats that appeal. Visitors can also visit the ruins of Ancient Thira. Small taxi boats connect Perissa to Kamari.

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Kamari – Crystal Clear water

Diving into the crystal-clear water is a highlight at this Blue-Flag-awarded beach, only six kilometres (3.37 miles) from Fira. Located in the seaside village of Kamari, the beach sits at the foot of the Mesa Vouno Mountain and can be reached by bus or car. The clean beachfront has serene spots to grab shade and solitude under the trees; it’s also well equipped with comfortable sunbeds and umbrellas. Dive into activities such as snorkelling, wind surfing or paddle boarding. Cafés and restaurants line the beachside strip, along with quaint gift shops worth taking a peek at. Combine outdoor dining with a movie under the stars at the local outdoor movie theatre,Cine Kamari.