Santorini
Santorini, one of the most famous islands of the Cyclades, is located in the Aegean Sea and captivates visitors with its stunning volcanic landscape, white houses with blue domes, and spectacular sunsets. The island was formed by a volcanic eruption and now offers a unique blend of nature, history, and Greek hospitality.
The capital, Fira, sits high on the cliffs of the caldera, offering breathtaking views of the deep blue sea. The picturesque village of Oia, renowned for its stunning sunsets, is another highlight of the island. In addition to luxurious hotels and traditional tavernas, Santorini boasts numerous historical sites, such as the Akrotiri excavations, which provide insight into the island’s Minoan past.
Whether exploring volcanic beaches, taking a boat tour to the caldera, or strolling through charming alleyways, Santorini enchants visitors with its beauty and unique atmosphere.
Currency: Euro (EUR)
In August 2021, another dream came true for us: Santorini.
The island of the Cyclades enchanted us with its unique architecture, dazzling white houses with blue domes, and the unmistakable Greek atmosphere.
Our journey took us to the capital, Fira, which impressed us with its breathtaking view of the caldera. The steep cliffs, deep blue sea, and spectacular sunsets made every moment unforgettable.
For our trip, we chose a direct flight with Lufthansa from Frankfurt to Santorini. The cost for a round-trip ticket, including luggage, was €381 per person.
Santorini exceeded all our expectations, from picturesque alleys and stunning beaches to unforgettable views. A journey that will stay in our memories for a long time
Beyond the famous towns of Fira and Oia, the island also offers stunning beaches with black and red volcanic sand, charming wineries, and archaeological treasures like the Minoan ruins of Akrotiri. Whether on a boat tour to the caldera, a wine tasting, or a stroll through the winding village streets, Santorini offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
In this section, we’ll show you:
- The best ways to travel to Santorini
- Our top accommodation recommendations with spectacular views
- The best restaurants and tavernas for authentic Greek cuisine
- Breathtaking beaches you shouldn’t miss
- Unforgettable experiences, from boat trips to historical discoveries
Get inspired and experience the beauty and charm of Santorini with us!
Getting to Santorini
Provider: Lufthansa
Cost: €381 per person (round trip)
Duration: Approximately 3 hours (direct flight)
Our journey to Santorini began with a direct flight from Frankfurt with Lufthansa. After about three hours, we arrived on the island and were immediately rewarded with breathtaking views of the white houses, the steep cliffs of the caldera, and the deep blue Aegean Sea during our landing approach.
At the airport, our pre-booked taxi was already waiting for us, taking us directly to our accommodation for around €20–30. This allowed us to enjoy a relaxed ride and look forward to the days ahead on this stunning Cycladic island.
Our Accommodations on Santorini
Mystagoge Retreat
Location: Situated slightly outside the center, making a scooter, car, or bus necessary for easy island exploration. The nearest bus stop is about a 10–15 minute walk away.
Cost: 7 nights for €1,235 (€176 per night)
Value for Money: Good
What we liked:
- The accommodation stands out with its exceptional design, creating a unique atmosphere.
- A private terrace with sun loungers and seating provides a relaxing space.
- A spacious communal terrace with a grill and seating area is also available.
- Private parking spaces are located directly in front of the accommodation.
- The host was incredibly warm and helpful.
What could be improved:
- The remote location might be a challenge without a private vehicle.
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a unique stay on Santorini, Mystagoge Retreat offers a perfect mix of comfort, style, and privacy. We highly recommend it.
Gabbiano Traditional Cave Houses
Location: Centrally located in Oia – the perfect spot to enjoy the famous sunset.
Cost: €450 per night
Value for Money: Fair – the prime location comes at a price.
What we liked:
- The accommodation was exceptionally beautiful, offering breathtaking views from both the terrace and the pool.
- The host was incredibly friendly and helpful, making our stay even more enjoyable.
- Overall, a unique experience that we highly recommend.
What could be improved:
- Nothing – we were completely satisfied.
Conclusion:
Gabbiano Traditional Cave Houses offers a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and spectacular views. A top recommendation for those looking to experience Santorini at its finest.
Tip:
If you’re searching for a special place to stay, consider booking a vacation rental with an infinity pool in Oia!
The Best Beaches on Santorini
During our time on Santorini, we explored a variety of beaches, from black volcanic shores to unique coastal spots with stunning rock formations. Each had its own charm, but some stood out to us the most.
In this section, we introduce you to the three most beautiful beaches that left a lasting impression on us with their special scenery, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable experiences.
Kamari Beach (Black Beach)
Location:
Located on the east coast of Santorini, about 5 km from Fira.
Our Impression:
Kamari Beach features black volcanic sand, crystal-clear water, and a lively atmosphere. Along the 5 km coastline, beach bars, tavernas, and restaurants invite you to relax. The dark lava stones give the beach a unique charm, but the sand can get extremely hot at midday, water shoes are recommended.
Getting There:
Easily accessible by bus or car.
Cost:
Around €15 for two sunbeds and an umbrella.
Conclusion:
Perfect for those looking for a vibrant beach with great infrastructure. If you prefer complete tranquility, you may want to explore more secluded beaches on the island.
Eros Beach
Location:
Eros Beach is located on the southern coast of Santorini, about 10 km south of Fira.
Getting There:
Access is via a bumpy road, so a car is necessary.
Cost:
The beach is free to access, but sunbeds can be rented at the Theros Wave Bar.
Theros Wave Bar:
- Cost: Around €15 for a sunbed on the beach or a cozy lounge on the restaurant terrace with a sea view.
- Guests who order food and drinks can relax on the comfortable seating for free.
Info:
Water is affordable in restaurants, depending on the place, 1 liter costs between €1 and €3.
Red Beach
Location:
Red Beach is one of Santorini’s most famous beaches, known for its striking red volcanic sand and impressive cliffs. It is located in the southwest of the island, about 12 km from Fira.
Getting There:
The beach is well signposted and accessible by car or bus. From the parking area, a roughly 10-minute rocky path leads down to the beach, sturdy footwear is recommended.
Facilities:
There are restrooms, a kiosk, and a small eatery offering drinks and snacks. Several taverns can be found nearby.
Cost:
Around €10–15 for two sunbeds and an umbrella.
Info:
From Red Beach, you can take a boat to White Beach.
Perissa Beach
Location:
Perissa Beach is a stunning black sand beach on the southeastern coast of Santorini, about 13 km from Fira. Its long shoreline and crystal-clear waters make it a popular swimming destination.
Getting There:
The beach is easily accessible by car or bus. A large parking area is available nearby.
Facilities:
Along the promenade, numerous beach bars, taverns, and restaurants create a relaxed atmosphere.
Cost:
Around €10–15 for two sunbeds and an umbrella.
Food and Going Out in Santorini
Passaggio
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 07:00 AM – 03:00 AM
Our impression:
A versatile café with a great breakfast selection and delicious dishes. Perfect for a relaxed start to the day, and in the evening, it transforms into a lively bar with cocktails, good food, and music.
Conclusion:
Whether for a hearty breakfast or a relaxed evening with drinks, Passaggio is a great choice at any time of day.
Skiza Cafe
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 08:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Our impression:
A cozy café with a beautiful view, perfect for a relaxed breakfast. In addition to coffee and breakfast specialties, it also offers delicious pizza and other dishes for both small and big appetites.
Conclusion:
A great place to start the day with a good breakfast or enjoy a pizza in a relaxed atmosphere in the evening.
Melitini
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Our impression:
A wonderful place for a romantic dinner with a view of the sunset. The cozy atmosphere and the selection of delicious tapas make the experience special.
Conclusion:
Perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy great food in an atmospheric setting.
Piatsa Souvlaki Grill House
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 9:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Our impression:
A cozy grill house offering delicious souvlaki and other Greek specialties. There’s also a good selection for vegetarians. Perfect for a quick and authentic meal.
Conclusion:
If you’re craving fresh souvlaki in a relaxed atmosphere, this is the place to be.
Address: Bus Terminal, Oía 847 02, Griechenland
Activities on Santorini
Santorini is one of the most fascinating islands in the Cyclades, captivating visitors with its unique architecture, breathtaking views, and distinctive charm. From spectacular sunsets and idyllic beaches to cultural highlights, there is so much to explore.
In this section, we’ll introduce you to the best activities on Santorini, whether you’re looking to relax, explore the volcanic landscape, or immerse yourself in Greek culture.
Open-Air-Kino in Kamari
Location:
The open-air cinema in Kamari is a true highlight, offering a unique movie experience under the stars. Surrounded by palm trees and atmospheric lighting, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing evening on Santorini.
Opening Hours:
Daily from 8:30 PM
Movie Start:
9:30 PM
Entry Fee:
€10 per person
Language:
Movies are shown in English with Greek subtitles.
Our Impression:
Definitely the most beautiful cinema we’ve ever been to! The atmosphere is truly unique, enjoying a movie under the starry sky with a cool drink in hand is simply magical.
Tip:
Arrive early to secure a good seat.
Santorini Wine Museum
Location:
The Santorini Wine Museum is housed in a historic wine cellar and offers fascinating insights into the island’s centuries-old winemaking tradition.
Opening Hours:
Daily from 10:00 AM – 5:45 PM
Entry Fee:
€15 per person
Experience:
The self-guided tour takes you through the old cellar, accompanied by an audio guide available in 14 languages. At the end of the tour, you can enjoy a wine tasting featuring four different wines from the island, served with bread.
Booking:
Available through GetYourGuide.
Our Impression:
A fantastic way to learn more about Santorini’s unique winemaking. The combination of history, traditional ambiance, and the final tasting makes this visit a special experience.
Imerovigli & Skaros Rock
Location:
Imerovigli, a picturesque village on Santorini, is known for its breathtaking views and the impressive Skaros Rock, a massive volcanic formation towering over the caldera.
History:
Until the 18th century, Skaros was the capital of Santorini. Today, remnants of the former fortress can still be seen, offering a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past.
Experience:
The hike up to Skaros Rock is especially rewarding at sunset, providing a spectacular view of the caldera. Since the path is rocky and steep in some areas, sturdy footwear is recommended.
Akrotiri Lighthouse
Location:
The Akrotiri Lighthouse is located at the southwestern tip of Santorini and offers one of the most stunning viewpoints on the island.
Experience:
A perfect spot to enjoy the sunset in a peaceful atmosphere. The view of the endless Aegean Sea and the caldera is breathtaking.
Tip:
There is a small snack bar on the way up where you can grab refreshments.
Getting There:
- By Car
- By Bus
Trip to Fira
Location:
Fira, the capital of Santorini, is located on the island’s west coast and impresses with its charming architecture and breathtaking views of the caldera.
Experience:
A stroll through the narrow streets of Fira is definitely worth it, you’ll find many small boutiques, souvenir shops, and cozy cafés. It’s the perfect place to soak up the lively atmosphere of the town. For a sweet refreshment, be sure to try some ice cream. In the evening, numerous bars invite you to end the day with a cocktail and a spectacular sea view.
Getting There:
- By car
- By bus
Tip:
For dinner, we visited Taverna Simos, a traditional Greek taverna with delicious food and a cozy atmosphere.
Ammoudi Bay
Location:
Ammoudi is a picturesque little bay located just below Oia and is one of the most charming spots on Santorini.
Experience:
The bay is famous for its traditional seafood restaurants, serving freshly caught fish right by the water. Ammoudi is also the perfect starting point for boat tours along the stunning coastline. Walking down offers beautiful views, but the return trip up the many steps can be quite challenging.
Tip:
If you want to avoid the climb back up, you can take a taxi or a boat back to Oia.
Morning Walk Through Oia
To escape the tourist crowds in Oia, I recommend taking an early morning walk through the picturesque village. At 7 AM, I set off on my exploration tour with my camera in hand and was able to experience Oia without the hustle and bustle of the masses. Some charming little cafés and shops were already open, allowing me to enjoy the peaceful and quiet atmosphere in a completely different way.
Watching the Sunset in Oia
Sunset in Oia – Our Tip
The typical viewpoints in Oia are often overcrowded, which can take away from the atmosphere. Instead, we recommend enjoying the sunset from a cozy bar, a restaurant, or even directly from your accommodation. This way, you can experience the spectacle in peace, with a refreshing drink in hand and without the crowds.
More Photos
Conclusion of Our Santorini Trip
Santorini exceeded all our expectations. The stunning architecture, breathtaking views of the caldera, and unforgettable sunsets made this trip a truly unique experience. The combination of picturesque alleys, volcanic beaches, and delicious Greek cuisine will stay with us for a long time.