Quick Guide: Santorini — What to See and How to Get There

Volcanic cliffs, blue-domed churches and legendary sunsets. Everything you need to plan your Santorini trip in one guide.

Why Visit Santorini

Santorini is not just a Greek island — it is the remnant of one of the most violent volcanic eruptions in recorded history. The Minoan eruption around 1600 BCE carved out the massive caldera that today gives the island its dramatic crescent shape, with sheer cliffs dropping 300 metres into deep blue water. This geological drama is what makes Santorini unlike any other Mediterranean destination: villages cling to cliff edges, whitewashed houses cascade down volcanic rock, and every terrace faces the vast, flooded crater.

Beyond the famous postcard views, Santorini offers surprising depth. The island produces exceptional wines from assyrtiko grapes grown in volcanic soil, has archaeological sites dating back 3,600 years, and serves some of the best seafood in the Cyclades. The light here is extraordinary — golden in the morning, stark white at midday, and deep amber at sunset — which is why photographers and painters have been drawn to the island for over a century.

Whether you come for a long weekend or a full week, Santorini rewards exploration beyond the main villages. Black and red sand beaches, hidden coves accessible only by boat, and quiet hilltop chapels with views stretching to neighbouring islands all await those willing to venture off the beaten path.

What to See and Do

Oia and its sunset. The village of Oia at the northern tip of the island is famous for good reason. Wander the narrow marble lanes, explore the blue-domed churches of Agios Spyridonas and Panagia Platsani, and arrive at the Byzantine Castle ruins by 7 PM in summer to watch one of the most celebrated sunsets in the world. Arrive early — hundreds of people gather nightly.

Fira to Oia hike. This 10-kilometre trail along the caldera rim connects the capital Fira to Oia in roughly 3 to 4 hours. The path passes through the villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli, offering uninterrupted views of the caldera, the volcano islet of Nea Kameni, and the neighbouring island of Thirassia. Start early to avoid midday heat.

Akrotiri archaeological site. Often called the "Pompeii of the Aegean," Akrotiri is a remarkably preserved Bronze Age settlement buried by volcanic ash. The covered excavation site reveals two and three-storey buildings, frescoes, drainage systems, and pottery that speak to an advanced Minoan civilisation. Allow at least 90 minutes for a visit.

Red Beach and White Beach. Just below Akrotiri, Red Beach is a striking cove backed by towering red volcanic cliffs. It gets crowded in peak season, so consider continuing by small boat to the more secluded White Beach nearby. For black sand, head to Perissa or Kamari on the island's southeast coast — both have long stretches with beach bars and tavernas.

Nea Kameni volcano. Take a boat from Fira's old port to the volcanic islet at the centre of the caldera. A 20-minute hike brings you to the crater rim, where you can see steaming fumaroles and smell the sulphur. Many tours combine this with a swim in the hot springs at Palea Kameni, where geothermally heated water turns the sea a milky yellow-green.

Wine tasting. Santorini's volcanic terroir produces wines you will not find anywhere else. Visit Santo Wines for caldera views with your glass, or try the smaller Estate Argyros and Domaine Sigalas for more intimate tastings. The local assyrtiko is crisp and mineral-driven; the sweet Vinsanto dessert wine, aged for years in oak barrels, is unforgettable.

Pyrgos village. The island's highest village is a labyrinth of medieval alleys built around a Venetian castle. Far quieter than Fira or Oia, Pyrgos offers authentic local atmosphere, small art galleries, and panoramic views from the Church of the Holy Cross at the summit.

How to Get There

By air. Santorini (Thira) Airport (JTR) receives direct flights from Athens year-round (45 minutes, from around 40 EUR one-way) and seasonal direct connections from London, Paris, Rome, Milan, Munich and other European cities between April and October. Budget carriers like Ryanair and Wizz Air often fly to Santorini in summer. Compare all options on Solvoya to find the best fares from your city.

By ferry. Ferries from Athens' Piraeus port reach Santorini in 5 to 8 hours by conventional ferry (from 35 EUR) or about 4.5 hours by high-speed catamaran (from 60 EUR). Blue Star Ferries and SeaJets are the main operators. Ferries also connect Santorini to Mykonos (2.5 hours), Naxos (2 hours), Paros (3 hours) and Crete's Heraklion (2 hours by fast ferry), making island-hopping straightforward.

Getting around the island. Local KTEL buses connect Fira to Oia, Kamari, Perissa, Akrotiri and the airport for 1.80 EUR per ride. In peak season, buses fill quickly. Renting a quad bike or small car (from 25-40 EUR/day) gives much more flexibility. Taxis exist but are scarce — book through your hotel. The island is small: Fira to Oia is only 11 km by road.

Where to Eat

Taverna Katina, Ammoudi Bay. Descend the 300 steps below Oia to this waterfront taverna right at the water's edge. Order the grilled octopus and fresh catch of the day. Prices are fair for the location, and watching fishing boats bob while you eat is hard to beat. Book ahead in summer.

To Psaraki, Vlychada. Tucked in the quiet fishing port of Vlychada on the south coast, this no-frills fish taverna serves whatever came off the boats that morning. Try the fried calamari, grilled bream, and the local fava — a creamy puree of yellow split peas that is Santorini's signature dish, drizzled with olive oil and capers.

Metaxy Mas, Exo Gonia. Hidden in a tiny village away from the tourist trail, Metaxy Mas serves Cretan-influenced Greek cuisin