Santorini   Travel Guide

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cheapest time to visit santorini greece

Best Times To Visit Santorini

The best time to visit Santorini is from September to October and April to May when the weather is warm and the crowds are scarce. Like all of the Cyclades, Santorini welcomes the most visitors during the summer, so you'll need to make your reservations months in advance if you plan on visiting anytime from June through August. Looking for a bargain? Try winter, when room rates tend to plummet. Keep in mind that this season's average highs only reach the 50s (not good for sunbathing) and the region sees plenty of precipitation. However, all that rain does make for a very flowery (and warm) spring season. Crowds will be at a low in the spring as well, though tourists will begin invading the islands come May.

Weather in Santorini

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit Santorini

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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Best Time To Visit Santorini – And Why To Avoid August

The best time to visit Santorini is between May and October, but avoid August in Santorini if you don't like crowds. If you're looking for the best time to go to Santorini, this month by month guide will help.

A graph of the crowds you can expect in Santorini on a month by month basis. August is marked in red as this is the busiest time of the year. June and October are marked in green as this has the best balance of lower crowds with pleasant weather | Dave's Travel Pages

The image above shows a little graph (I've called it the Santorini crowd-o-meter!) of how busy you can expect it to be in Santorini each month of the year.

August is marked in red as this is the most crowded time to visit Santorini. June and October are marked in green as these months have the best balance of lower crowds with pleasant weather and are ideal times to go to Santorini.

Beautiful Santorini and when to go

Perfectly positioned in the South Aegean Sea lies the idyllic Greek island of Santorini. Most famous for its iconic white-washed and blue-topped buildings, this pretty island has long been a tourist hotspot.

When is the best time to visit Santorini though?

It depends what you are after. Do you want to visit Santorini in the low season when it's cheaper? Do you want to go to Santorini for the best weather? Do you want to travel to Santorini when there's fewer tourists?

In this Santorini Travel Guide I'm going to offer my perspective from living in Greece to help you decide when is the best time to go to Santorini for your next vacation.

Note: I've visited Santorini twice – Once in early November, and once in July. Out of these two, I felt the best time for Santorini was November.

Overall, with my experiences of travel in the Cyclades islands in Greece , I think that June would perhaps be the perfect time go go to Santorini.

When to visit Santorini island – Summary

The best time to visit Santorini in Greece

  • Best time to travel to Santorini for weather – May to September
  • Best time to visit Santorini to avoid crowds – Not July and August
  • Cheapest time of year to visit Santorini – Low season October to March
  • Best time of year for Santorini nightlife – June to September
  • Pro Tip – Visit Santorini in winter for lower prices and fewer tourists

** My guide to the best Santorini Sunset hotels **

Santorini Weather

As with the other Cyclades islands, during the summer (June – September) Santorini has a dry Mediterranean climate with hot, sunny days and slightly cooler nights. The hottest months are August in particular and July. A slight haze in the air means that sunset photos are not as clear as those taken in off season months.

The winter weather on the other hand is much cooler, and while there is no rainy season as such, rains can be expected from mid October onwards. The coldest months are January and February, and on very rare years, snow might also fall – but it never lasts for long!

A hidden sunset spot in Santorini - Dave's favourite place to take sunset photos!

Best time to visit Santorini

Santorini attracts over 1.5 million tourists annually, which is quite a lot considering how small the island is!

Most head there during the peak summer months of July and August. Due to the popularity of visiting at this time, you might be forgiven for instantly assuming this was the best time to visit Santorini, but this is not necessarily the case.

If you're planning a trip to Santorini, you'll want to choose your date more carefully. Read on for a month by month breakdown on when is the best time to travel to Santorini.

In each section, I lay out the pros and cons for each month, balancing things such as the best weather to visit Santorini against the months when the Cycladic island is at its busiest.

Oh, and if you're wondering how you should get there in the first place, read this: How to get to Santorini

Visiting Santorini in January

January is off-peak season, and it also has few tourists. You can expect sunshine, but may need to pack a sweater or two to keep warm. You may also experience a little light rain.

Not all the tourist facilities will be open, and many hotels may be closed, but Santorini is gradually transforming into a year through travel destination. You will always find places to eat and drink – Lucky's Souvlaki in Thira never seems to close!

January is probably the best time of year to visit Santorini on a budget for backpackers who might not care that everything is not open yet.

Bonus for going to Santorini in January – Probably the month with the least visitors!

Downside for traveling to Santorini in January – Forget about swimming!

Visiting Santorini in February

February is a month much like January when it comes to Santorini. The water is still too cool to swim, and there can be a bit of a sea breeze.

On the plus side things will be much cheaper and you will still find restaurants open in some of the main tourist areas.

Bonus for spending time in Santorini in February – A few more tourist facilities open. Still low on visitors.

Downside of Santorini in February  – Swimming is still not really possible.

Visiting Santorini in March

March is a pretty good month to visit Santorini. The weather warms up nicely, and the tourists are still few in number.

Things start to heat up come March. Well, it might still be a bit chilly by Greek standards, but Northern Europeans will appreciate the difference! Temperatures can reach 20 degrees during the day, although it's still not consistent.

What's great about Santorini in March, is that  hotel prices still remain fairly low. (Check out my guide to sunset hotels in Santorini here ).

It's still firmly in the off-season, but shoulder season is coming, and the first cruise ships start to arrive at the end of the month.

Don't come at this time of year if you are hoping to swim in the sea though, as the water temperatures will still be way too cold for that. Swimming months are between June and September.

However, if you choose a hotel with a heated pool, or if you're okay with just strolling the streets, then March could work for you.

Bonus for visiting Santorini in March  – Still low on visitors, with the possibility of the odd few days of T-Shirt weather!

Downside for visiting Santorini in March  – You've still got to be pretty crazy to swim – but don't let me stop you!

Related: Is March a good time to visit Greece?

Visiting Santorini in April

April is still classed as low season, so you can grab yourself some serious deals when it comes to flights and accommodation options. The only exception will be the days around Greek Easter which varies every year.

While it won't be as warm as in those peak summer months, it will still feel relatively hot – T-shirt weather for non-Greeks most likely!

If you've endured a long and cold winter, and want some cheap sunshine, then April could be the month for you.

Bonus for visiting Santorini in April  – Some great deals on flights and hotels outside of Easter. The weather is warming up nicely!

Downside for visiting Santorini in April  – The only real downside is the weather isn't 100% reliable as of yet. Other than that, a pretty good month to visit Santorini!

Visiting Santorini in May

Excellent weather runs from around May to the end of November, although you can still expect warm and sunny days outside of this time period as well.

May is a great time to visit Santorini if you want to get there when things are warming up, but when it still has a quiet old-town feel to it. You can check out some interesting day trips from Santorini to enjoy here .

Bonus for visiting Santorini in May  – The May weather heralds the beginning of the good weather months. The sea may (for the brave) be warm enough to swim in.

Downside for visiting Santorini in May  – No real downsides to visiting in May, other than the sea perhaps being not comfortably warm yet.

Visiting Santorini in June

The famous Red Beach of Santorini

The high season runs from around June to September. At the start of June, things are only just beginning to get really busy. So it might be a good time to visit if you still want to dodge the crowds but also want that summer sun.

Bonus for visiting Santorini in June  – One of the best months to visit Santorini. The first few weeks are still low(ish) on tourists, and the waters around popular beaches such as Red Beach on Santorini are now warm enough to take a swim.

Downside for visiting Santorini in June  – None really.

More here: Greece in June

Visiting Santorini in July + August

Two words sum up Santorini in July and August – busy and hot. High temperatures can hit 35 degrees, and everyone seems to have had the idea of visiting at the same time.

Dave from Dave's Travel Pages enjoying a July sunset in Santorini

In my opinion, it's not really pleasant at this time of the year. The beauty of Santorini is best experienced in quieter times, and who wants to try and elbow people out of the way in order to get the best sunset spot?

Now of course, I totally get that some people don't have a choice but to visit Santorini in July and August due to work leave, school vacations and the like. You have been warned though!

You are going to want to book your hotels and flights WAY in advance if you want anything resembling a good deal if you are determined to visit Santorini during this period.

Bonus for visiting Santorini in July and August  – I don't want to sound negative, but there really is no upside of visiting Santorini in July and August. Do yourself a favour, and pick some other months! This is not the best time to visit Santorini in my opinion.

Downside for visiting Santorini in July and August  – As mentioned – tourist hordes, pricey flights, hot weather (too hot), insanely priced accommodation, crowded beaches. Should I go on?

Also, the infamous Meltemi which affects the Greek islands in the Cyclades occurs at this time. It can get very windy during this period!

Further reading – Best time to visit Greece

Visiting Santorini in September

Things start to revert back to normality in September. It's still busy, but not as crazy as July and August, and you can almost sense the sigh of relief in the air that Santorini has got over the high season rush again!

This month is a good time to visit if you want to grab some late summer sun. The Meltemi wind has also eased off, and weather-wise, September is a near perfect time of year. Early September has great weather overall, and its a great month for wine tasting and boat tours.

Bonus for visiting Santorini in September  – Fewer tourists than peak season. Hotels coming back down in price. Weather and sea still warm, and lots of sunny weather.

Downside for visiting Santorini in September  – None really, although later September is better to avoid the holiday cross-over with the early parts of the month.

Additional: September is a great month to visit the Greek islands. Read here the 10 best Greek islands to visit in September .

Visiting Santorini in October

October marks the start of the low season, so it can be one of the best times to visit Santorini if you want to save money on your hotel. You'll find warm weather in early October, but cool evenings which makes it a lot more comfortable for sightseeing.

The crowds are also thinner, and you'll often have a slice of beach to yourself. Is it warm enough at that time of year? Just – but perhaps not 100% reliable especially in late October.

Bonus for visiting Santorini in October  – Pick up some nice deals on hotels in Santorini and flights. Still warm for the time of year.

Downside for visiting Santorini in October  – Some businesses starting to close for the year towards the end of the month.

Find out more: Travel Guide to Santorini in October

Santorini is one of my picks for the best Greek islands to visit in October .

A full guide here to visiting and the weather in Greece in October .

Visiting Santorini in November / December

Hiking from Fira to Oia. The views are truly spectacular.

November and December used to be a very quiet time but it is actually rising in popularity. So much so that many restaurants are choosing to remain open all year round.

Hotel prices are still slashed and the sun still shines (with a little rain from time to time), so it can be a good month if you want to escape the winter cold.

I visited Santorini in November a couple of years back, and found the weather to be great at that time of year. It was also the ideal month to take the walk from Fira to Oia along the caldera. The heat of July when we revisited in 2020 did not encourage me to take the same hike!

Another observation, is that the caldera views seemed clearer in November than they did in July. Perhaps because the wind was less pronounced and didn't make the air so hazy.

Santorini in Winter

Greek islands have traditionally been summer time only travel destinations. With increasing numbers of tourists though, Santorini island is slowly developing as a year around destination.

Visiting Santorini in winter has several advantages. Firstly, it is a lot cheaper to stay at hotels in Santorini in the winter than in the summer.

Additionally, it is also easier to find accommodation in Santorini during the winter months. The biggest bonus though, is that there are far fewer other tourists.

If you are planning to go to Santorini in the winter however, you need to keep some things in mind. Whilst there will be some bars and restaurants open, many businesses will still close down for those winter months in Santorini.

You'll also not find a nightclub open between November and March. The beach resort areas such as Kamari may also be virtually closed.

Personally, I loved travelling to Santorini in November. I was maybe lucky with the climate and weather, but really enjoyed all those great views with none of the crowds to match!

FAQ about the best time to go to Santorini Greece

Here are some commonly asked questions about visiting Santorini at different times of the year.

When should you avoid Santorini?

If you can choose to visit Greece whenever you want, avoid going to Santorini in August at all costs! August in Santorini is ridiculously crowded, with people everywhere you turn. The main streets of Fira and Oia are so full of tourists that it can be hard to move.

What is the best month to visit Santorini?

The best month to go to Santorini in terms of good weather and fewer tourists would be a choice between June and October. It's probably best to avoid Santorini in August if you don't like crowds.

How many days do you need in Santorini?

Santorini is a relatively small island, and you could easily see the main highlights and attractions within 2 or 3 days. 

Is Santorini or Mykonos better?

It depends what you are after. Santorini has better places to enjoy the sunset, and a number of pretty towns and villages to walk around. Mykonos on the other hand has far better beaches and nightlife.

Which side of Santorini is better?

The west side of Santorini is the better place to stay if you want to experience the Santorini sunset and have easy access to either Oia or Fira at night. Budget travelers might prefer the east side as it has cheaper places to stay.

Use the above as a guide on the best time to visit Santorini, and leave a comment below if you have any other questions.

Santorini and other Greek islands

If you are planning an island hopping trip in Greece beyond just Santorini, you'll find a lot of other useful travel guides which may help you plan your trip. Here's a few to get you started:

  • Best wine tours in Santorini
  • How to get from Santorini Airport to your hotel
  • Best boat tours in Santorini
  • Islands near Santorini
  • Best time to visit Europe

You might also like to sign up for my newsletter , which will help plan you Greek vacation in more detail. In it, I share the best of the best from the blog, and it's all totally free of course.

** Sign up for my newsletter here **

A month by month guide to the best time to go to Santorini

Next read: Warm European Destinations In December

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21 thoughts on “Best Time To Visit Santorini – And Why To Avoid August”

Hi Dave, Appreiciate all of the great informoation. We are visiting Santorini last week of April and wondered which area is the best to stay? We are there for 3 nights, no car. Thank you in advance!

Definitely Fira for this time of year. It’s Santorini’s capital so has all the facilities you need. Oia will feel a little like a ghost town in April, and the coastal towns won’t be open yet in terms of places to eat.

Hi Dave. I don’t like to walk when it is too hot. Hence thinking of visiting end of September, so that the water was warm enough to swim, and temperature not too high and let us enjoy walk around the island. Would that be a good idea to visit end of September or better to come early September?

Mid to end September would be. good time to visit as the weather in Santorini would still be warm enough to swim, but very far away from the peak temperatures of July and August.

Do you think there will be enough to do on Santorini mid to late October for 3 days. Do you think we will be able to some water excursions? Thank You. Unfortunately I can’t depart any earlier. Also planning on hitting Athens on the way home and spending 5 nights w possible day trip.

Hi Carolyn, Yes there’s enough to do for 3 days. The volcano trip will still run, and I imagine a sunset cruise (although not 100% sure). You could choose some thing from here: 3 days in Santorini

Thank you for this helpful post!!

Dave read your blogs on Santorini but could you help with this question as I have not been able to address it my self. Our cruise ship arrives in Sept 2019 for day we will be tendered off how can we get to Firá and Ora without using cable car either way or walking as we are 70 years old. I have heard there is a boat to another part of coast where transport is available but the return journey is not available. Barry

Hi Barry, You can get water taxis from where the cruise boat will be to Amoudi Bay below Oia. Rumour has it you can now book these on board your cruise boat, If not, it’s all pretty straight forward once you get there (turn left at the tender dock). Unfortunately, the decision most people take is to get the water taxi as described, see Oia, and then bus down to Fira. From there, getting the cable car back down to ground level. (I think there may even be a ticket deal which includes water taxi, bus, and cable car). If the cable car and walking is not an option for you, then you would most likely have to stay in Oia, and then get a return water taxi – however, I have no solid information on this. You’d have to ask on the day,or get in contact with your cruise ship company.

Thanks Dave, will seek advice from Tui who we are sailing with. Rhodes is another stop any thoughts on visiting Lindos or stay in town. My wife wants to see Acropolis type of venue Barry

Hoping to visit Santorini end of October to the start of November for our honeymoon. I wanted to stay a few nights in Imerovigli and a few nights in Oia. Can we still see the sunset here this time of year? Weatherwise, does it get super chilly in the evenings? It seems like most restaurants are outdoors so just wanted to know if its too chilly to even sit outside?

Any help would be appreciated!

Thanks so much!

Hi! In October it can get chilly at night, but only so much as a light jacket would be needed. You might find at that time of year that restaurants have some mini-heaters outside if they are needed. There are good sunsets at all times of year, and we had some fantastic one when visiting in November. I’d questions swapping hotels between two places in Santorini – I don’t think it’s neccessary. Also, I’m not sure how long you are planning to spend in Santorini, but 3 or 4 days would be the max for most people. Have a great trip to Greece!

hi Dave, We are planning a trip to Greece in May, 2020. Traveling from Raleigh, North Carolina to Athens and then same day flight to Santorini. On one of your posts you recommended Aegean Airlines but they only have flying dates thru March, 2020 so it is hard to plan without knowing flight times. There are two flights we can take to get us to Athens. One lands at 10:00am and the other at 1:45pm. Would it be better to take the one that lands early in Athens? Will there be several choices of flight times to Santorini? We don’t want to miss out if there are only morning flights and we land in Athens after they have all left. Thanks for your help.

Hi Holly, They may not release next season’s flights until September unfortunately. I would say to land at the earlier time to give you more options. I think it would be inconceivable that no flights at all would be running, but we won’t know for sure until later. If you haven’t already checked it out, this post has more info – Athens to Santorini

Thanks so much Dave….yes I have read all your blogs and they are extremely helpful…..so we will book the earlier flight and then just keep checking for flights to Santorini….can’t wait to visit Greece.

Hi Dave, We are planning our son’s wedding in Santorini May 1, 2020. Santos Winery for the ceremony and Pyrgos Restaurant for the reception.

We are looking for boutique hotels for the group. We are having about 40 to 50 guests

Hello – congratulations on the wedding!

I can recommend a few boutique hotels in Fira, close to both the winery and the restaurant. Also, I’ve recommended a couple of hotels in Imerovigli, if you want a quieter location, but some people will need to rely on some form of transportation.

Just to clarify that this is not from personal experience! It’s based on scores on http://www.booking.com and reviews on http://www.tripadvisor.com , and the hotels’ photos.

Hotels in Fira

Marquise Suites on Booking (adults only) Marquise Suites on Tripadvisor

Porto Fira Suites on Booking Porto Fira Suites on Tripadvisor

Anteliz suites on Booking Anteliz Suites on Tripadvisor

Hotels in Imerovigli

Chromata on Booking Chromata on Tripadvisor

Rocabella on Booking Rocabella on Tripadvisor

Santorini Princess on Booking Santorini Princess on Tripadvisor

Hope this helps!

Hi Dave My friend and I will be doing a cruise in September 2019 and will be in Santorini on 9/11 from 8am until 5pm but have to make sure we are back on cruise ship on time. Do you have any suggestions on a small group or semi private tour of best of Santorini making sure we go to oia do you have any tours or guides you could recommend? 4-5 hour tour Thanks Cheryl

Hi Cheryl, I hope you enjoyed the weekend! Whilst I don’t have any specific tours in mind for your shore excursion, I would recommend looking at Getyourguide.com (this is the site I use myself when travelling). I know they have several small group offerings for Santorini shore excursions you might choose from. Have a lovely time!!

Your Santorini article is very interesting. How about some information on Rhodes?

Thank you 🙂

I’m hoping to get some Rhodes info up later this year – Perhaps not in time if you have a trip planned this summer though!

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cheapest time to visit santorini greece

Santorini on a Budget – The Ultimate Guide for 2024

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Looking to visit Santorini on a budget? Santorini may be known as being a luxury destination, but it can also be a budget friendly destination. Check out this guide for how to have an incredible trip to one of Greece’s top destinations while on a budget!

Santorini

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cheapest time to visit santorini greece

Traveling to Santorini? Check Out These Recommended Resources:

Find Affordable Accommodation: Booking.com or Expedia Book Tours or Excursions: Viator or Get Your Guide Find the Best Deal on Rental Cars: Discover Cars

Why Visit Santorini for a Budget Trip?

Santorini is a beautiful Greek island in the Aegean sea, known for its dramatic landscape and stunning sunsets. Atop Santorini’s gorgeous cliffs are beautiful white cave houses with blue dome churches.

Oia, Santorini

So why visit Santorini? Santorini is a bucket list destination in Europe, and Santorini’s popularity is rising amongst travelers across the globe. Santorini is a volcanic island with stunning views. After traveling around the world, Santorini is still one of the top most beautiful places I have ever seen.

Is Santorini Cheap?

As one of Europe’s most famous destinations, Santorini is typically not cheap . However, the good news is that any destination can be made into a budget trip – if you plan it right.

There are many aspects to consider for planning a budget trip to Greece, from accommodation, to transportation, to things to do, to saving money on eating and drinking. This comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to plan a budget trip to Santorini.

Santorini on a budget, visiting the windmills

Things to do in Santorini on a budget

One of the most important ways to keep your trip to Santorini budget friendly (but still amazing) is to find free or cheap things to do! Santorini offers plenty of these free and cheap activities that will ensure your trip is amazing.

9 Free or Budget Friendly Things to do in Santorini

1. watch the sunset.

Sunset from Oia, a great budget activity in Santorini

Santorini is famous for it’s beautiful sunset, in fact the sunset here is said to be one of the most beautiful in the entire world. Watching the sunset is one of the best free things to do in Santorini!

To view the sunset, make sure you are on the Caldera side of the island. You’ll find tons of tourists heading to the Oia castle, which is a nice spot if you don’t mind the crowds.

Another option is to view the sunset from Fira. Sitting at outdoor bar + sipping wine can make for the best place to watch the sunset! If you are staying in Imerovigli, you may even see the sunset right from your accommodation.

For a quieter and more romantic sunset view, try heading to the other end of the island to catch the sunset from the Akrotiri lighthouse. This is arguably the best way to view the sunset, as it is more serene and avoids the large crowds.

Akrotiri lighthouse

2. Hike from Fira to Oia

The reason Santorini is so immensely popular is because of its incredible views . The landscape was formed by volcanic eruptions which has made it very dramatic.

To experience these amazing views, one of the best things to do in Santorini is to complete the hike from Fira to Oia. I recommend starting the hike from Fira, as it is a bit less uphill and you will get amazing views of Oia as you approach.

The full hike from Fira to Oia is a little over 6 miles, and will take a few hours to complete. If you plan to do this hike in the summer, get an early start as it will get quite hot out. Also, it’s essential to bring plenty of water as for most of the hike there is nowhere to stop.

3. Explore the picturesque village of Oia

View from Oia, from the Oia Castle while visiting santorini on a budget

Picturing yourself among the white washed cave houses and blue dome churches of Greece? Well, the place you are thinking of is none other than the beautiful village of Oia.

Oia is the most popular town on Santorini island, and therefore can be expensive to stay in. However, it makes for a great place to spend the day and walk around (for free!). Oia is where you will find the picturesque white cave houses perched atop the dramatic cliff overlooking the Caldera.

Apopular spot in Oia is the castle, which is a surviving watchtower from a fortress during medieval times. The views here are incredible, and arguably some of the best on the island. This area is also free to visit.

4. Check out Amoudi Bay

Check out Amoundi Bay while visiting santorini on a budget

Walking distance from the village of Oia, you will find the picturesque Amoudi Bay harbor. This is a beautiful harbor to visit, although it is a long walk that does include a lot of steps to get down to the harbor.

Visiting the harbor gives you a chance to get close to the water and gives you a different perspective of Santorini. There are also a few seaside restaurants along the harbor, but these restaurants are a bit on the pricey side.

5. Visit Santorini’s Beaches

Santorini is not as well known for it’s beaches, but it does have some nice ones! The beaches are located on the opposite side of the island in Kamari and Perissa. Visiting the beach is a great free activity, especially on a hot summer day!

6. Hike Profitis Ilias

Profitis Ilias (Prophet Elias) is the highest point in Santorini. Located around 3km away from Pygros village and reaches 1860 feet high. Profitis Ilias makes for a nice hike with great views from the tallest mountain in Santorini.

7. Visit the Ancient Site of Akrotiri

Akrotiri archelogical site, a low cost activity for Santorini

Akrotiri is an archeological site on Santorini. It was once an ancient Bronze Age settlement that was completely destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 16,000 BC. Similar to Pompeii in Italy, the volcanic ash covered and preserved buildings which have since been uncovered by archeologists.

Today, you can walk through the excavation site of Akrotiri and get a glimpse of the ancient city that once existed here.

Akrotiri is relatively small and will only take 1-2 hours to visit, however it makes for a very unique thing to do in Santorini. It only costs 12 Euros per person to visit this incredible site. The site is also completely covered, making it a great activity for a rainy day.

8. Visit a Winery

Wine at Venetsantos winery while traveling on a budget to Santorini

Did you know Santorini is famous for their wine? You should definitely try some Santorini wine on your budget trip!

While there are several expensive half day wine tours available, you can instead just go directly to one of the wineries for a wine tasting or a glass of wine.

Santos and Venetsanos Winery are both highly rated and offer excellent views. At Venetsanos Winery, you can do a winery tour for around 12 euros a person or a tasting for around 26 Euros. You can also choose to just have a glass of wine and enjoy the incredible views. In the high season, you will likely need to reserve your spot online ahead of time.

9. Take a Boat Tour to the Santorini Volcano and Hot Springs

A budget boat trip in Santorini

Boat tours are very popular in Santorini, and there are many different tours to choose from. If you have the budget for it, I do recommend one of the Catamaran sunset tours that include food and drinks. The unfortunate thing is that those tours can cost around 100 Euros per person, which isn’t very budget friendly.

However, there are some boat trips that are much more affordable. For example, this half day boat ride to the active volcano and hot springs for only around $30 per person.

✅ Click Here to Check Prices and Book the Best Budget-Friendly Boat Ride around Santorini

Taking a boat tour is also a good option if you are wanting to visit the red beach. The red beach has had many landslide issues and can be dangerous, and so it is best to admire it safely from the water!

Red beach in Santorini, best visited by a boat tour

When to go to Santorini for a Budget Trip?

One of the most important aspects for planning a budget trip to Santorini is deciding when to go. The Greek islands are very seasonal, and prices will vary depending on what time of year you are there.

Fall (September-October)

Fall is shoulder season in Santorini, and is a great time to visit Santorini on a budget. The weather is still warm, with averages of 15-30C (60-86 F). Additionally, the Aegean Sea is still warm enough for swimming, especially in September.

Most hotels and businesses will remain open through the month of October, and the closer to November the cheaper prices will be.

Early September on the other hand, can still be quite hot and busy with tourists, and so if you are looking to go in the fall late September through October will be the best time for an enjoyable yet budget friendly trip to Santorini.

Spring (April-May)

Santorini in Spring the best time to visit on a budget

Spring is another shoulder season, and an amazing time of year to visit Santorini on a budget. The weather is slowly warming up and ranges from 10-25 C (50-76F) in April and 15-30C (60-86F) in May. There can be occasional rain and fog still at this time of year, especially in early spring.

April to early May is the best time for a budget friendly trip and will have less crowds than the summer season. The Aegean Sea won’t start to warm up until later in May, but if you are brave or don’t mind the cold you can try to swim!

One thing to keep in mind is that Greek Easter (typically in April) can be a very busy, therefore more expensive weekend to visit.

Summer (June-August)

Boats in Santorini in the peak season of summer

Summer in Santorini is considered The High Season. Weather in summertime is sunny and great for being out on the water. Temperatures are typically between 24-30 C (76-86 F).

However, prices during summer time raise significantly due to it being peak season.

A good example of how avoiding peak season saves you money is this: We stayed hotel room with a hot tub and caldera views in April for a reasonable price. That same hotel we stayed at in April was 3 times more expensive in June of the same year. Therefore, summer is not the best choice to get great value on Santorini hotels.

Summer is also extremely crowded, especially in popular places such as Oia. Santorini is a small island, and summertime sees insane numbers of tourists. Additionally, many cruise ships that stop there for the day and have thousands of passengers getting out.

Winter (November-March)

In general, the Greek islands are very seasonal and close down in the winter months. Especially the tourist areas, such as Oia, will be almost completely closed up during winter.

Santorini does have a year round population in the town of Fira. However, many restaurants, shops, and activities will be limited or closed completely , especially outside of Fira. Additionally, many hotels close completely during the winter months.

If winter is the only time you can go to Santorini, you will want to stay in Fira. There will not be many tours or activities running, but renting a car would allow you to still visit sites that have opening hours in winter such as Akrotiri, as well as visit Oia without tourists to get some photos.

Want to visit Greece in the off-season? Check out some of the incredible destinations in mainland Greece, such as Meteora or Delphi .

Delphi is an awesome day trip from Athens. You can be there in a few hours, but there are some amazing things to see along the way.

If you have a little more time, Meteora is a stunning destination, and a great road trip option from Athens.

Both of these are very budget-friendly places and are completely underrated destinations in Greece.

Santorini on a Budget – Where to Stay

Caldera View in Santorini

There are many hotels and hostels on the island of Santorini. To keep your accommodation costs in budget friendly try to not stay in Oia and stay in one of the following locations instead:

Fira (Thera)

The capital of Santorini, Fira, has a wide selection of accommodation, with plenty of budget friendly choices available.

Fira has a variety of local restaurants, giving you more options to find budget food and drinks. Fira also has museums and activities, such as the museum of prehistoric Thera. This makes for a convenient stay as many things are just a short walk from your hotel.

One mistake budget travelers can make is booking cheap accommodation, but not accounting for cost of transportation, and then spending more money + time trying to get to where they want to visit each day.

This is one reason why Fira is a great choice for a budget trip to Santorini. Staying in Fira allows you to be in the center of everything, making your transportation costs lower. Fira is well connected by the local bus system and is close to the airport.

Santorini Church

Looking for something romantic or more relaxing? Yet still want to travel on a budget to Santorini? Imerovigli may be the perfect choice! Known as the balcony to the Aegean , Imerovigli has incredible caldera views. It is one of the main towns and one of the highest points on the Greek island of Santorini.

Imerovigli is located a little over a mile away from Fira, and consists of mostly accommodation and some restaurants. It is quieter here, yet still close enough that you will easily be able to get to where you want to go.

Imerovigli is a good location for honeymooners, couples, or those visiting the island of Santorini for the first time. It also makes for a great location to see the famous Santorini sunset. Not only is it much more affordable than the popular village of Oia, but it is also more private and less crowded.

Perissa + Kamari

Going in the high season or looking for a more laid back beach vibe? Check out one of the beach towns of Perissa or Kamari. Both of these villages offer great budget options for your vacation to Santorini.

Perissa + Kamari both are on the opposite side from the Caldera. So while neither has the famous Caldera view, they do both have very budget friendly accommodations and you can be steps away from the beach!

Both of these villages are also well connected by the public bus system, making it possible to travel to other parts of the island. Alternatively, you could choose to rent a car to further explore Santorini.

Perissa or Kamari are great for the summertime, as the weather is perfect for the beach and many of the beach bars and restaurants will be open. Other villages, such as Imerovigli will also have higher prices in high season.

Getting to Santorini on a Budget

Santorini view

To get to Santorini, you will either need to fly or take a ferry. Both of these can be budget friendly options. Depending on the time of year and where you are coming from, taking a flight can usually be the quickest and cheapest option.

Fly to Santorini

Many people choose to fly to Santorini, and for good reason. Flying is the fastest way to get to Santorini. Flights from Athens are super quick, lasting only around 30-40 minutes. The great thing about flying is that it gives you more time in Santorini!

There are several direct flights from Athens, and these flights are typically pretty budget friendly. Prices vary based on the airline and time of year, but on average you should pay between 50-100 Euros per person for a roundtrip flight.

If you are coming from an international destination, it will likely be cheapest to fly to Athens first and then fly to Santorini.

Some of the airlines that fly to Santorini from Athens include SkyExpress, RyanAir, and Aegean. Out of these options, I personally can recommend Aegean.

Ferry to Santorini

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

Taking a ferry is a popular option and is very unique to Greece. A ferry is a great choice if you are already on or going to another island nearby, such as Mykonos or Naxos. You can also take the ferry directly from Athens.

Ferries will take longer than flights, but can be a fun way to get to Santorini if you enjoy being on the water. There are high speed ferries (SeaJet) and slow ferries (Blue Star). On average ferries can cost between 35-140 Euros per person. Ferries are also more common in the summer months.

SeaJet can go from Athens to Santorini in around 4-5 hours, while Blue Star will take closer to 8 hours. If you are at all prone to seasickness, you will want to avoid the high speed ferries if possible and opt for the BlueStar.

Budget Friendly Transportation in Santorini

Blue dome churches in Santorini

Public Transportation

Santorini does have a public bus that is easy and safe to use. The bus is by far the most budget friendly way to get around Santorini as bus tickets cost around 1-2 Euros per ticket.

Fira is the main hub for the bus, and bus routes include transportation to the ferry port, airport, and other towns such as Oia, Imerovigli, Perissa, Kamari and more.

One important note is that for the bus you will need cash to buy the ticket.

Car rentals are surprisingly affordable in Santorini. There are several car rental companies at the airport and can be budget friendly depending on when you go. We rented a car for 4 nights in the spring and paid around 100 Euros total.

A car rental makes sense if you plan to do a lot of exploring of different parts of the island. Keep in mind that most cars will be manual, and that Santorini can have some steep driving. Another thing to keep in mind is that in popular areas such as Oia, parking can be difficult to find.

Scooter or ATV Rental

Renting a scooter, quad bike, or ATV is another popular thing to do in Santorini. Scooters cost around 30-55 Euros per day, while an ATV will cost 50-150 Euros per day.

I personally wouldn’t recommend a scooter or ATV because the roads can be curvy and have pot holes, and getting in an accident on an ATV may not turn out well. It is however a very popular way to get around Santorini.

We opted for a car rental, as it was actually more budget friendly and felt a bit safer than driving the ATVs.

Eating and Drinking on a Budget

The cost of food and drinks can be another consideration for keeping your trip to Santorini budget friendly. Also, its important to remember that you can’t drink the water, so keep in mind you’ll need to buy water.

Here are a few additional things to keep in mind in regards to keeping your food and drink costs budget friendly:

Gyros are a Greek specialty! Gyros are a delish street food option that is a great choice for anyone on a tight budget. It’s a very affordable meal that typically only costs a few Euros. You can also choose to save money buy eating Gyros at lunch so that you can splurge on a fine dining restaurant at dinner.

Take Advantage of Happy Hours in Santorini

Happy hour drinks while traveling on a budget in Santorini

Looking to have a drink with a view? Taking advantage of happy hour drink specials can help you get the most out of your money. Not all bars offer happy hours, but some do and these specials typically take place between 5-7pm.

Book a hotel that includes breakfast

Booking a hotel that includes breakfast can help you save some extra cash. It’s also convenient to not have to worry about finding a spot to eat in the morning.

Greek breakfast at our hotel in santorini

Grocery Shop

Grabbing a few snacks, drinks, sandwiches, or items to make a meal at the grocery store will likely save you money rather than eating out. This is a great option if you are traveling with kids or if you are staying in an airbnb and have a small kitchen.

How Long to Stay in Santorini for a Budget Trip

Santorini is an amazing destination, and I highly recommend staying 3-4 nights if your schedule and budget allow for it. Staying 3-4 nights will allow you to have time to explore and enjoy this beautiful island.

View of Santorini

How much will it cost to visit Santorini?

Cost can vary significantly based on when you are going and how much you are wanting to spend. However it is possible to visit Santorini cheaply. Below you will find the average price for things on Santorini island.

Budget Hotel Cost Per Night: 60 – 150 Euros (Varies significantly based on season and town)

Average Cost of a Gyro: 5 – 6 Euros

Average Cost of a Meal: 15 – 25 Euros (Avoid eating in Oia or Ammoudi Bay due to higher prices)

Average Cost of Water: 1 Euro

Average Cost of a Beer or Glass of Wine: 5 – 6 Euros

Average Bus Ticket: 1-2 Euros

Santorini windmill

Top Tips for Visiting Santorini in the Cheapest Way

  • Visit in the shoulder seasons of Spring or Fall to get the best deals on the best hotels
  • Stay in Fira or Imerovigli if Caldera views are a must. If you are more flexible, stay in the Kamari beach or Perissa beach towns for the best prices and cheap hotels
  • Eat breakfast at your hotel and a cheap meals such as Gyros
  • If you order seafood make sure you know the price ahead as they typically base pricing per Kilo and it adds up quickly
  • Take advantage of the free + cheap activities mentioned above
  • Utilize the local busses – public transport here is cheap + safe and can easily get you around the entire island
  • By food + drinks at the grocery store when possible as it is a great way to save money

So, Can Santorini be a Budget Destination?

Santorini view

Absolutely! If planned right, you can definitely visit Santorini on a budget.

Santorini has a plethora of free and budget-friendly activities which can keep your costs down significantly. Staying in the right place and going at the right time will also help you keep your Santorini trip on budget. You do not need to stay in expensive hotels or spend a lot of money to enjoy everything that one of Greece’s most popular islands has to offer.

Santorini is a beautiful destination in Greece, and is truly a must visit!

Looking for more budget-friendly destinations in Greece? Check out Meteora and Delphi !

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Amber is the owner and author of Get Lost in Wanderlust, a blog that helps travelers plan incredible trips across Europe from bucket list cities to charming hidden gems. She has a Bachelor's Degree in History and Psychology, and enjoys learning more about the culture and historical significance of each place she visits. When she isn't exploring Europe, she loves reading, writing, and planning her next adventure.

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Why now is the time to visit Santorini: shoulder-baring season

Sep 30, 2021 • 5 min read

The Santorini heat can be intense – ensure you drink plenty of fluids and bring water on hikes

There's never a bad time to visit Santorini © Vladimir Vladimirov / Getty Images

Most people visit Santorini during the popular summer high season, but you’ll enjoy the island no matter when you go. In July and August, everything’s open and heaving with holidaymakers . Special events like concerts and exhibitions appeal to the masses. However the months before and after are also rewarding as beaches and tavernas are less thronged yet everything is open and the weather and water temps are lovely.

Away from the touristy months from May to October, religious feast days dominate island life with families enjoying day-long outings and festivities. Use this month-by-month guide to pick the perfect time to visit Santorini.

A black couple hug each other while laughing in Santorini

Shoulder Season: May and June, September and October

Best time to relax

Those in the know prefer Santorini’s shoulder season when most everything is open, the beaches beckon and the crowds are manageable. You can get a prime sun lounger or the perfect corner table in a cafe without advance planning or early hours scrambles.

During much of the shoulder season, the weather is lovely and warm, although beware of cool breezes early in May and late in October (when some businesses may also be closed).

A couple sit on the black volcanic rock of Nea Kameni and enjoy the view

Low Season: November to April

Best time for solitude

Compared to the warmer months, Santorini is a completely different place during the cooler half of the year. Beachfront tavernas and most other tourist businesses are closed. Ferry schedules are sparse (although they do run, albeit with an emphasis on services to and from the mainland as opposed to island-hopping) and local transport is mostly DIY.

However if brisk temps and dramatic storms rolling in off the sea inspire you, this is your time. Bring sufficient clothing (highs may not crack 12C/54F) and flexible expectations to allow for weather interruptions and you’ll find Santorini ready to explore. Not everything is closed and in the cozy tavernas serving islanders, you’ll find that people actually have time to talk and share their stories about the local life. Prices are low.

Tourists watching and taking pictures of the sunset in Oia, Santorini, Greece

High Season: July and August

Best time for partying

Crowds stream from a constant flow of packed ferries and the clubs and beaches are jammed. Book your accommodation plus your table at top restaurants well ahead as Santorini fills up with holidaymakers from across Europe and the rest of the world.

This is not the time for quiet contemplation – rather it’s the time to plunge into the maelstrom with the fun-seeking crowds. Locals work around the clock, and those that can, flee to less heaving spots away from the Aegean. Expect prices for virtually everything to be at their peak.

Post-Christmas Santorini is at its quietest. Little is open although people come out for the two important religious ceremonies of the month.

Key Events : Feast of Agios Vasilios, Epiphany.

Lent dominates the religious calendar. Carnival is celebrated in a much more relaxed manner than in other European spots such as Venice.

Key Events : Carnival, Kathara Deftera (date varies according to when Orthodox Easter Sunday falls).

A woman sits on a white wall in Santorini and admires the view

Flag-waving and flag-raising ceremonies are held across Santorini (and the rest of Greece) on March 25, the day of Greek independence. The weather moderates a tad and the first whiffs of spring bring more people outdoors.

Key Events : Independence Day.

Easter is easily the most important religious date on the Greek calendar. Over the Orthodox Easter week, Santorini’s diaspora returns to the island from far and wide for processions, services and myriad family meals. Outdoor events are all public and visitors are welcome. You may even snare an invite to a family gathering which will be a wonderfully memorable feast. Note that Orthodox Easter is usually a couple of weeks later than the date of Easter in the Catholic church as the two faiths use different lunar calendars.

Key Events : Greek Orthodox Easter.

Much of Santorini begins to fully reopen during the week after Easter. The countryside is alive with wildflowers which makes for splendid walks and picnics. This is especially true on May Day, a national holiday.

Key Events : May Day, Feast day of Agia Theodosia.

A magical Santorini sunset over the white-washed houses in Oia

June is the favorite month for many long-time visitors to Santorini when summer attractions like the open-air cinema in Kamari are in full swing. Just after the solstice, the Feast of St John the Baptist on June 24 sees bonfires lit across the countryside.

Key Events : Feast of St John the Baptist.

Full-on summer means a full-on cultural calendar. There are outdoor concerts (many free) and art exhibits in even the smallest towns. Watch for posters advertising all manner of special events.

Key Events : Santorini Jazz Festival, Feast day of Agioi Anargyroi.

It gets very hot for most of August, so be prepared to spend plenty of time in shady tavernas while taking full advantage of the pleasantly balmy nights when every outdoor venue is heaving with action. Ferries burst at the seams around Assumption Day.

Key Events : Megaron Gyzi Festival, Ifestia Festival, Feast of the Assumption.

A woman stands alone on the beach and stares out at the sea in Santorini

Like June, September is another ideal month to visit Santorini. The sea has been warming all summer long and you’ll enjoy gorgeous swimming throughout the month even as those with school and work concerns return to their “real” lives.

Key Events : International Music Festival.

It’s still easy to fully enjoy Santorini in October. Join islanders for a glass or three of something locally grown on October 22, the feast day of Agios Averkios, the patron saint of wine.

Key Events : Feast day of Agios Averkios.

Beach loungers are stored away and the kitchen fires at seaside tavernas snuffed out as the island slips into off-season somnolence. Small feast days bring out families while the olive harvest enlivens hillsides (although this can happen earlier depending on the year’s weather).

Key Events : Feast day of Agios Minas.

Preparations for Christmas enliven towns across the island, especially Fira and Oia . This is a family holiday, so decorations are muted compared to places depending on holiday tourism. Expect crisp sunny days punctuated by squalls.

Key Events : Christmas.

You may also like: Santorini's most breathtaking beaches Santorini's top unmissable experiences How to enjoy Santorini on a budget  

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Santorini Stories

The best time to visit santorini: a complete guide.

Guests arriving in Greece are no longer required to have a valid certification of your vaccination or tests for COVID.

One of Santorini’s secrets and its special charm is that it’s different depending on the month of the year.

You’ll get the most of your stay in Santorini choosing the right time of your visit according to your interests.

A sincere overview will help you to plan your vacation taking into consideration different aspects.

Great for any pocket. Right time to travel

the right time to travel to santorini

Santorini is great for all pockets and budgets.

One of the unique features of the island is that it offers facilities for all kinds of visitors , whether you’re students, families, couples, on a budget or want to spend a fortune on a secluded villa somewhere on the cliff with a great sunset and Volcano  view or eating out in a fancy restaurant .

Santorini offers all types of accommodation: hostels, camping, B&B, hotels, apartments, villas.

Cheaper areas are the black beaches of Monolithos, Kamari, Perissa, Perivolos and local villages of Messaria, Finikia, while the most expensive lodgings in Santorini are those located on the Cliffside  and Villas and Suites with Caldera View.

Best hotel deals can be found from March till late May (except Orthodox Easter) and then in late September, October to December.

Winter season is the cheapest, if you agree to choose just from a few hotels staying open.

best hotel deals on santorini

We advise you to book your tickets in advance, as during the high season or on holidays like Orthodox Easter or Holy Spirit Day you may not find any on the spot.

  • Ferry boats to the islands stop their trips somewhat mid October to many destinations, so be aware.
  • Highspeed boats and superjets stop travelling even earlier.

Easter in Santorini

Mind that Easter is a busy time in Santorini and it’s cold to swim yet, but most of the days we already enjoy the warmth of our black sand at the beaches.

Easter is a sacred, unforgettable time in the island.

Many Greeks are visiting Santorini at that time to experience traditions living only here.

If you ever have a chance to come to the island during Orthodox Easter, do not miss it.

visiting fira on santorini

Fira, Pyrgos village and Prophet Elijah monastery up the top of the mountain are the key places for Easter night , while Easter Sunday is great to be spent in Kamari or Perissa eating traditional lamb grilled on fire and celebrating with the locals.

Participating in Greek celebrations you can understand the Greek character better!

For us Easter is often the beginning of the season.

Those days some nightclubs and bars first open their doors.

Swimming season in Santorini goes on from mid or late May till the beginning of November.

Do not expect warm sea in May though.

The hottest months are July and August, but it can be hot enough already from June till mid September.

Lot’s of things to do and to discover Santorini is a great place for almost everything you may expect from a vacation spot.

Fantastic landscapes, beaches and mountains , hiking and museums with unique and amazing artifacts, amazing food affordable to any pocket, culinary classes, traditional shows, old cave wineries, breweries and canavas in the oldest vineyards in Europe, catamaran and fishing trips, volcano tours can keep you busy during your whole stay!

Whatever you saw in others’ pics or profiles is now right by your feet!

old winery on santorini

It’s priceless to relax in front of the Caldera enjoying local dishes with a drink or a coffee overlooking the incredible splendor of our sleeping volcano Nea Kameni, Palea Kameni, Thirassia and Aspronissi nearby.

Knowing weather conditions in Santorini in different months of the year can help you to choose the right time to travel.

The most mild weather is definitely in April – the beginning of May and mid September to early November.

Usually it’s not hot – that makes it easy to go around the island, to see and to do lots of things, to ride around or hike, visit the sites.

It can rain a bit sometimes, so you’d better be prepared.

You can expect fresh mornings, cold nights but rather warm daytime.

It may be windy, but less than during some other months.

Great time to come to Santorini if you experience some health issues or trying to avoid the heat.

These months though there’s a limited choice of restaurants and taverns open.

November is off-season for the known nightclubs and bars.

A bit of life in the evening can be found mostly in Fira.

For sightseers, photographers, people looking for less tiresome temperatures May and September-October are considered the best time of the year to pay a visit.

Short Monthly Guide

santorini during spring

  • March, April, and May are the months when the weather improves, prices are more affordable, some tourist shops, many lodgings and attractions are ready to meet their guests. The weather tends to become clearer, with fresh mornings and cool evenings. It may rain and could be cloudy sometimes, although after the rains of the previous winter Spring in Santorini will surprise you with lots of flowers and more greenery than usual.
  • June to September is the high tourist season when everything is open and available. The demand is high, and reservations should be made in advance to secure accommodation as prices are at an all-time high. Early booking discounts are available for those who book in advance, but last-minute availability is almost impossible to find during July and August due to high demand.
  • October and November have reduced activities due to the end of the season coming. While some shops remain open, accommodations are slowly shutting down. However, the weather is usually good, with the peacefulness of autumn and the absence of crowds in many days. Tourists can enjoy more of Santorini and still take advantage of the warm weather, which is a contrast to other parts of Europe (and even Northern and Central Greece) where cold weather has already arrived.
  • December, January, and February are colder months with fewer tourists and closed attractions.

The Cheapest Time of the Year to Visit Santorini

famous beach on santorini

To have a pleasant experience, tourists often seek to avoid crowds.

Visiting Santorini in August can result in crowded beaches and an unpleasant experience.

It’s rather challenging to have a memorable trip to Santorini, but many think it’s too expensive.

The best time to visit Santorini for budget-conscious travellers is during the off-season between the end of October and March when hotels have vacant rooms and airlines offer lower fares.

Bargains can also be found in April and October when seasonal transportation and tour fees are less expensive.

Consider early May or mid-October for good weather and affordable accommodation.

Check the outskirts of the towns and B&B, hostels and camping if your budget is short.

Another solution is to book your lodging in less known villages like Messaria or Finikia, Baxedes and going around the island using public transportation (during the high season only) or hiking.

unique famous caldera view

If you dream of waking up with the view of the Volcano but can’t spend a fortune on your vacation, you may consider coming to Santorini in low season , in Spring or late October.

The beach resorts normally have a shorter season, open later and close sooner, while the season on the Cliffside and in Fira is usually longer.

Booking your vacation long time in advance can help you to save money both on tickets and accommodation.

You might be lucky to find cheap plane tickets from Athens to Santorini in winter, March – April, October – November, while the weather can be challenging.

The very beginning of November is our secret time to enjoy quiet weather, mild sun, beautiful sunsets, a swim in a bit chilly but pleasant waters and meditate.

It’s also the best timing for photographers , as well as April and part of May, as you need clear atmosphere for good pictures.

In summer months due to the heat it’s rare when you can capture one of those fantastic sunsets you could expect.

One day air-trip from Athens to Santorini is worth it if you plan to have a coffee on the Cliffside visiting Fira, but surely you need a car to go around.

The best you could do to see more is to take a private tour of Santorini picking you up from the airport and taking around the whole island.

We gladly do it for those who can’t leave Greece without seeing the most popular and romantic island of the world.

Although Santorini is not a huge island, during the peak season and on the days when many cruise ships have it in their program, it will take you longer to visit different popular places, including wineries.

When you choose to explore Santorini in less crowded season, you’ll see much more during your Santorini private tour and will be less tired at the end.

Winter in Santorini

winter on santorini

Considering visiting Santorini in winter have in mind that there’s air connection only to Athens (it might not be regular) and there are no international flights at this time of the year.

The days are short and the nights are long.

Only slow ferryboats travel from Athens (from Piraeus port) to Santorini and back, and there’s no connection to Rhodes, Crete or other islands around.

Winter is the most quiet time in Santorini.

Most of the locals are travelling to other parts of the world being on vacation, and that’s when you can be on the island almost on your own.

Winter in Santorini is good only for those who need an escape, although it’s quite freezing due to the wind and it may rain a lot.

The beach resorts are usually closed in winter, so you can choose from a limited choice of accommodation units open.

Most of them are located in Fira.

Fira, in fact, is the center of any kind of life in the island during winter months.

Most of the restaurants and taverns stay closed for winter, so mainly you’ll have to choose between fast food and buying your food at a supermarket.

The views, though, still stay wonderful, and empty Santorini has it’s own charm and is totally free of crowds.

The Museums and sites close early in winter, so plan your day accordingly.

Winters are usually rainy and very humid.

On a sunny day it’s nice to walk around the local villages like Firostefani, Messaria, Emborio, Pyrgos. If it rains – go to one of the Museums or to Akrotiri!

Ancient Thira archaeological site is closed in winter due to weather conditions.

Whenever you choose to visit Santorini, there are always things to do and see if you do the right planning.

We’re ready to help you with this saving your time and providing you with the best experience possible. Send us your request now!

Book your tour now.

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The best time to visit Santorini: few crowds, great deals, and blissed-out weather

santorini

Whitewashed buildings encircle the caldera’s cliffs, their blue roofs complementing the Aegean Sea—no matter when you visit Santorini , the Greek island is always stunning.

Still, summer is undoubtedly the most popular time, when hordes of tourists flock to the island. Between June and August, Santorini experiences the highest temperatures, making it ideal for beachside activities like swimming and getting a tan. However, you’ll have to deal with crowds and skyrocketing prices.

As the weather gets chillier, crowds begin to dwindle over the autumn months from September to November. By December, Santorini enters its low season until March, and you’ll get to experience a slower-paced lifestyle, although it’ll be too cold to swim. Things begin to heat up in April, and May sees more sunshine while still being fairly peaceful.

So when is the best time to go to Santorini? Here’s a round-up of what you can expect in each season.

1. Santorini’s peak season: June–August

Summer in santorini.

kamari beach santorini

Best for: Beach vacations

From June to August, Santorini enjoys the ultimate beach weather. It’s hot and sunny, with average temperatures of 75 to 80°F, and clear skies are guaranteed. The sea is warm enough for swimming, and you can also rent sunbeds in popular beaches like Kamari Beach and Perissa Black Sand Beach .

This is when Santorini sees the biggest crowds, and every hotel, bar, and restaurant is operating at full capacity. You’ll also get to enjoy special summer events like open-air cinemas and regattas. Ferries and flights run frequently during this period, including seasonal international flights, making it incredibly convenient to travel here in summer. As prices for travel and lodging can get expensive, especially in Fira and Oia , we recommend making bookings as early as possible.

Thirassia waters

Hoping to beat the crowds? Why not go scuba diving in a volcanic reef , where your only companions will be the variety of marine life? Or explore hidden hot springs around Thirassia on this private snorkeling adventure . You can even go fishing and eat what you caught, or relax on a catamaran with an open bar and a barbecue buffet meal .

However, watch out for the Meltemi winds, which tend to blow strongly in the Cyclades during summer; some water activities may be canceled due to choppy waves. Sadly, you won’t be able to stroll around barefoot on the sand—Santorini’s black sand beaches are made up of volcanic rocks and ash, so they can get unbearably hot to walk on in the blazing sun.

2. Santorini’s shoulder season: September–October, April–May

The shoulder seasons in Santorini happen in spring and fall, when the crowds are either trickling in or dwindling. While you’ll experience way fewer crowds than peak season, we recommend that you make prior bookings to get the best deals. Most businesses will be open, and it’s the best time to visit Santorini for comfortable sightseeing. The only downside is that you might have to prepare for some cold snaps and rainy days, as the weather isn’t as predictable as summer.

Fall in Santorini

santorini sunset in fall

Best for: Honeymoons, weather, fewer crowds

As the summer crowds dwindle, autumn is a great time to be in Santorini as you’ll get to enjoy great weather, cheaper prices, and more peace. Temperatures begin to drop to an average of 75°F in September and 69°F in October. As the sea heats up over summertime, you’ll still be able to swim—at least until mid-October.

This is a good time to enjoy your honeymoon, as the island begins to feel more tranquil although most businesses are still open. Make the most of this season to do romantic activities like horse riding on the beach , watching the sunset on a luxury catamaran , or having your photos taken on a rooftop . Fall also sees a number of festivals like Ifestia, which is dedicated to the Minoan eruption of Santorini.

Spring in Santorini

santorini spring

Best for: Hiking, sightseeing, spring blooms

Santorini is mostly sunny in spring, with average temperatures of 61 to 68°F. Unfortunately, the water is usually too cold for swimming, although hot springs might be worth a dip. Instead, we recommend hiking around Santorini to enjoy the lovely spring weather and blossoming bougainvilleas and wildflowers. The Fira to Oia hiking trail offers spectacular views of the caldera, and you can even join a small-group tour to learn more about the island’s history along the way.

With Greek Easter occurring in April, Santorini begins getting livelier. Holy Week is the biggest religious festival of the Greek Orthodox calendar, and locals in Santorini celebrate with mouth-watering feasts, church ceremonies, and other traditional rituals. The village of Pyrgos is particularly atmospheric on Good Friday night, lighting up with flaming aluminum cans as a procession of candles and paper lanterns takes place.

Most businesses should be open by mid-April, including vineyards and wineries, which you can visit on a wine tasting tour .

3. Santorini’s low season: November–March

santorini

Best for: Cheap deals, no crowds

Traditionally, winter to early spring is off-season in Santorini. While you definitely won’t encounter hordes of tourists, more travelers are starting to appreciate this season for quieter vibes and cheaper prices. Temperatures are in the 50s, with some rain, wind, and cloudy skies.

While there will be at least one or two ferries and flights a day, transport to Santorini will be much more limited. The weather can also cause travel disruptions if there are rough waters or strong winds. Most businesses will be closed, especially nightclubs and beach resorts, though areas like Fira and Oia definitely see some activity. But if you’re hoping to experience Santorini’s buzzing nightlife, winter isn’t ideal.

Many hotels are starting to remain open during winter to accommodate the increasing number of off-peak visitors. Villa Manos , for example, even keeps its pool open, and Blue Dolphins Apartment & Suites ensures you can still soak in the hot tub.

sunset in santorini

This is the best time to explore Santorini like a local—trust us when we say that the world-famous sunsets in Oia are much more stunning when there are no crowds in your way. Plus, with the whole island feeling like your personal playground, you’ll be able to take all the photographs you want without worrying about being photobombed.

skaros rock

While many tourist sites may be closed, you’ll still have plenty of things to do in Santorini in winter. Attractions like Skaros Rock , Ancient Thera , and the Castle of St Nicholas can be explored year-round, and some tours, like this winter cruise around the caldera , are still available. Wineries such as Domaine Sigalas remain open with limited hours, so you can still sample award-winning wines in winter.

Recommended tours and activities

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

More like this:

  • All about the Caldera of Santorini: A guide to this geological showstopper
  • A first timer’s guide to taking the ferry from Mykonos to Santorini
  • 10 stunning black sand beaches in Santorini and where to spot them

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Best time to visit Santorini Island (Greece)

Last updated on November 9, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Planning a trip to the famous Cycladic island? Wondering when you should go for the most amazing experience? Below is my guide to help you decide the best time to visit Santorini for you: best months for the weather, best season to avoid the crowds, best period for the prices…

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Santorini:

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

My favorite platform to rent a car in Santorini: DiscoverCars

The unmissable boat tour: Full day catamaran along the cliffs

My favorite excursion: the Highlights Tour

My favorite places to stay:

  • In Oia, the most famous area on the cliffs:  Marizan Caves
  • In Fira, the most central to explore by bus:  Keti Hotel
  • In Kamari for a stay by the beach:  Hotel Sunshine

Best time to visit Santorini Travel

Best time to visit Santorini – short answers / summary

Best time to travel to santorini – short answers.

If you don’t want read the whole article, below are my short answers about the best times to visit Santorini depending on what you are looking for:

  • Best month to visit Santorini in my opinion – October
  • Best time to enjoy the beach – September (for warm waters, but bearable sand and lesser crowds)
  • Best time to explore – April, May, October and November (good weather, everything is still open but less crowds)
  • Cheapest months to visit Santorini – December to February is when the prices are really reduced (June to September are the most expensive)
  • Best time to party – July and August is when nightlife is at its peak
  • Is Santorini in Winter worth it? – yes, the weather will not be as cold as the rest of Europe and you can have the views with far less people around. However most of the tours will not be running during that period, so you have to explore on your own

Sunrise in Santorini

Best season to visit Santorini – Summary

  • High Season – from mid-June to mid-September Hot weather, warm waters Flights and ferries are more frequent Prices are high Tours and activities are all running Lots of tourists (and cruise ships)
  • Shoulder Seasons – May to mid-June + mid-September to October Sunny and warm weather, waters are a  little colder Flights and ferries are frequent Prices are still high but not as much Tours and activities are mostly all running Not as many tourists, and less children
  • Low Season – November to April Cool weather, changing sky, rain possible, windy – waters are cold Less frequent ferries and flights Prices are lower, especially December to February Most tours and activities are not running (boat tours, wine tours…) A lot less tourists

Best time to visit Santorini - Infographics

Note – daylight length

  • During the shortest days of the year, you still have 9h40 of daylight – plenty of time to explore
  • During the longest days of the year, you have 14h30 of daylight

Climate – best season to visit Santorini?

Average temperatures during the day.

Weather is hot in the summer months, warm in the shoulder seasons and cool (but not cold) in Winter.

  • January – 9 to 14°C (48 to 57°F)
  • February – 9 to 14°C (48 to 57°F)
  • March – 10 to 16°C (50 to 61°F)
  • April – 12 to 19°C (54 to 66°F)
  • May – 15 to 22°C (59 to 72°F)
  • June – 19 to 27°C (66 to 81°C)
  • July – 22 to 28°C (72 to 82°F)
  • August – 22 to 27°C (72 to 81°F)
  • September – 19 to 26°C (66 to 79°F)
  • October – 16 to 22°C (61 to 72°F)
  • November – 13 to 19°C (55 to 66°F)
  • December – 11 to 16°C (52 to 61°F)

Perissa beach cocktail

Average rainfall and days with rain

It almost never rains in Summer, and rarely rains from April to September. Most rains are from October to March.

  • January – 115mm (4,5in) – generally, 9 days with rain
  • February – 80mm (3,1in) – generally, 7 days with rain
  • March – 65mm (2,6in) – generally, 6 days with rain
  • April – 30mm (1,2in) – generally, 3 days with rain
  • May – 15mm (0,6in) – generally, 2 days with rain
  • June – 5mm (0,2in) – generally, 1 days with rain
  • July – generally, no rain
  • August – generally, no rain
  • September – 15mm (0,6in) – generally, 1 days with rain
  • October – 60mm (2,4in) – generally, 3 days with rain
  • November – 70mm (2,8in) – generally, 5 days with rain
  • December – 100mm (3,9in) – generally, 9 days with rain

Clouds over Santorini

Where to stay in Santorini?

My favorites:

  • For the charm: Oia –  See best-rated accommodations
  • To explore by bus: Fira –  See best-rated accommodations
  • To enjoy the beach & nightlife: Kamari –  See best-rated accommodations
  • For cheaper options: Emporio –  See best-rated accommodations
  • Away from the crowds: Vlychada –  See accommodations

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

Crowds – best month to visit Santorini

2 million tourists visited the tiny island of Santorini in 2018! Remember that Santorini :

  • is 76 km2 (just under 30 mi2)
  • has 69km of coastline (43mi)
  • is 16km long (10mi)
  • has a width varying from 1 to 5km  (up to 3,1mi)

Therefore it gets crowded. And there are a lot of talks around overtourism in Santorini

Oia street

  • The island is full from Mid June to mid-September
  • The lesser crowds are in Winter
  • All year long, the charming village Oia gets crowded for sunset
  • If you want to have the places almost to yourself, wake up early and enjoy the sunrise – above is a picture of the main street of Oia during the first hours of the day
  • The most crowded places are the Northern white villages : Oia, Imerovigli and Fira, as well as the 2 largest black beaches of Perissa and Kamari – tourists favorite attractions are the Red Beach and the hot springs of the caldera ( boat tours )
  • If you are looking for off the beaten path options – visit Emporio village in the center, Vlychada beach to the South or the North East beaches

small crowd in Santorini

Crowds will also have an impact on your driving experience, every time you wan to explore further…

Need to rent a car in Santorini?

  • Compare prices on my favorite platform:   Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
  • Don’t take a car too large, since village streets can be narrow
  • Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind! 
  • Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See all my tips

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

Price – best period of the year to visit Santorini

Prices depends on demand. Therefore the higher prices are in Summer and the lowest in Winter, especially December to February. However a lot of accommodations close during those months (especially at the beaches). Your highest cost will be accommodation ?

I checked a 4 star cave house in Oia :

  • for a week in July – it was 4211 euros for 2
  • for a week in February it was 2349 euros for 2

I checked a 3 star accommodation in Kamari beach :

  •  for a week in July – it was 820 euros for 2 
  • for a week in January it was 633 euros for 2

Check out the best rated accommodations in Santorini or read my article about the best areas to stay in Santorini

Hotel in Santorini

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

Beach & activities – when to visit Santorini

Average seawater temperatures in santorini.

If you are looking to be able to swim while on holidays in Santorini, know that the water temperature vary a lot throughout the year. So even if the weather is nice enough to enjoy the Santorini beaches , they might not be sufficient  if you love warm waters… Below are the average temperatures to give you an idea.

  • January – 16°C (61°F)
  • February – 16°C (61°F)
  • March – 16°C (61°F)
  • April – 17°C (63°F)
  • May – 19°C (66°F)
  • June – 22°C (72°F)
  • July – 24°C (75°F)
  • August – 25°C (77°F)
  • September – 24°C (75°F)
  • October – 23°C (73°F)
  • November – 20°C (68°F)
  • December – 18°C (64°F)

Enjoying the beach in Santorini

Tours and activities

Tours mostly run from May to October. However

  • Some Island bus tours are now running during part of the winter (closing only November to January)
  • a few sailing tours are now running during part of the winter
  • Check out what tours are available at your dates on Getyourguide

Sailing in santorini

If you plan on renting a car, check out my article about driving in Santorini .

Sunset – Best time to travel to in Santorini

The sun does not go down with the same alignment all year around. If you are watching the sun setting in Oia, sometimes it may be behind the houses, other times it sets towards the North coast. And at other viewpoints in the caldera, the sun can set on the water, far on the horizon (rather than behind the island) during some months.

I recommend you check out The Photographer’s ephemeris and change the dates to see in which direction the sun is setting. In my opinion the best is November to January.

Oia sunset

Sunset times

You might also want to consider, the time of sunsets – to suit your organization better (rather early or late):

  • January – 5:15 to 5:45pm
  • February – 5:45 to 6:15pm
  • March – 5:15 to 7:40pm (Summer time change)
  • April – 7:40 to 8:05pm
  • May – 8:05 to 8:30pm
  • June – 8:30pm to 8:40pm
  • July – 8:25 to 8:40pm
  • August – 7:45 to 8:25pm
  • September – 7 to 7:45pm
  • October – 5:25 to 7pm (Winter time change)
  • November – 5 to 5:25pm
  • December – 5 to 5:15pm

If you are wondering where to stay between Oia and Fira – check out my comparison article .

Planning your trip to Santorini

Need help planning your trip to Santorini? You can check my articles on this websites:

  • Best things to do in Santorini  
  • Best views in Santorini
  • Where to stay in Santorini
  • Santorini itineraries

And if you want practical maps and tips to make the best of your time on the island, below is my eBook:

Plan your dream trip in Santorini thanks to my guide

eBook Santorini

  • 6 maps to easily plan your itinerary
  • 40+ pre-selected locations
  • GPS + tips to make the most of your time
  • Planning tips
  • 90+ original photos to help you choose

Want to see more of Santorini?

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Best beaches in Santorini

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cheapest time to visit santorini greece

The Best Time to Visit Santorini

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

Key Takeaways:

  • The peak tourist season in Santorini is from June to August . During this time, the island is crowded with tourists, and everything is pricier. 
  • The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are generally considered the best times to visit Santorini. 
  • The peak summer months can get extremely hot , with temperatures soaring above 30°C (86°F). Spring and autumn offer cooler temperatures , ranging from the mid-teens to low 20s Celsius (mid-50s to low 70s Fahrenheit), making outdoor activities and exploring more comfortable.

sanotrini winery Vasily Mulyukin shutterstock

We've all seen it: magical sunsets, whitewashed houses with blue accents, steep hills, unique volcanic ash beaches, and a whimsical atmosphere that enchants everyone who visits; of course, we're talking about none other but the world-acclaimed island of Santorini! But what is the best time to visit Santorini?

With a need for escaping reality more prominent than ever, Santorini , one of the most popular islands of the Cyclades both for tourists and locals alike, seems like the light at the end of the tunnel. 

And how could it not be with its volcanic geomorphology , the deep blue waters of its beaches, and the welcoming locals who feel like enjoying your time on their island is their responsibility!

A little bit about Santorini 

sunset in santorini Georgios Tsichlis shutterstock copy copy

Santorini is, in fact, a complex of islands that consists of Thera, Thirassia, and Aspronissi . These used to be one, but following a tremendous volcanic eruption, the land broke off, forming the impressive Caldera everyone knows and loves. 

Magical as it is, Santorini was often thought to be connected with the legend of the "lost" city of Atlantis in ancient history, becoming the test subject of scientists worldwide for years. 

Choosing the best time to visit Santorini

akrotiri church santorini Mariia Boiko shutterstock

Speaking about your vacations to Greece , choosing when to travel to Greece comes down to personal preference, and Santorini is no exception. However, regardless of that, and because Santorini is an island, visiting during the winter would not be the wisest choice.

The Greek islands are infamous for being particularly cold and windy. Additionally, due to the small number of permanent residents, they are close to being deserted.

Therefore, it wouldn't be a surprise to find most restaurants and shops that are at their peak during summertime closed through the winter months.

santorini akrotiri Dimitris Panas shutterstock

That being said, due to the incredible, raw beauty of the island, there is something to be gained from a winter trip.

Τhe emptiness of the low season months causes a serenity that is difficult to find. So if seclusion is what you're after, then maybe visiting Santorini in the winter is not such a bad idea; in any other scenario, choosing the warmer months is, without a shadow of a doubt, the best option.

On the opposite side, if you choose to visit Santorini during the summer and especially during its high season, which lasts from the end of June to early September, you need to keep in mind that thousands and thousands of people have probably made the same choice as you.

Expectedly, being one of the most popular summer destinations in Greece and the whole world, Santorini can get extremely busy and often overcrowded.

As a result, relaxation, peace, and quiet give way to busy streets, lots of chattering, loud nightlife, and hectic beaches, which can be a no-go for some.

However, if crowds and waiting in line don't matter, and you've imagined your holidays filled with parties that end in the first light of day, you have nothing to worry about.

If you're visiting Santorini with kids and are looking to have a much more calm and more  authentic Greek island experience , crossing off the dead of summer from your list is the best way to go. 

As with everything in life, there is such a thing as a 'happy medium,' and that happy medium should be the one to look for, as it will provide you with a one-of-a-kind, authentic experience without compromising the factor of fun. For us, that happy medium can be found during late spring and early autumn. 

Santorini by night fokke baarssen shutterstock

If you choose to visit Santorini in late May or late September to early October, not only will you get to bask in the wonderful sunshine and enjoy good weather, but you will get to explore the island without touching shoulders with thousands of people.

Don't get me wrong, the island will be far from deserted, but it won't be packed to the brim either, which is ideal! And with the perfect climate the Mediterranean is offering, there will be plenty of things to do in Santorini during May, September, and October, so you are not missing out on anything that's happening during the high season.

Between you and me, the beaches of Santorini will probably be even more magical during those months. 

Here is a detailed breakdown of Santorini during every month of the year .

Visiting Santorini in November and December

Akrotiri lihthouse santorini cge2010 shutterstock

It is no secret that the Greek islands are not considered a winter destination, which stands true for Santorini as well. From early November and through December, Santorini is expectedly very quiet and exudes the energy of a deserted island due to the island getting into its off-season. 

Many restaurants opt to remain closed from October until April. As a result, hotel prices are also reduced, while there are hotels that remain closed during the winter season altogether, such as some of the hotels in Oia and most of the  Santorini beach hotels .

The weather is, of course, very cold. However, the sun still occasionally shines, making the winter chills a bit more bearable.  

Some people claim that early November to late December is the best time to visit Santorini and catch sight of the Caldera . We don't necessarily agree, however, each on their own! It is all a matter of what you're looking for during your vacation in Greece.

Visiting Santorini in January

ammoudi beach santorini ian woolcock shutterstock

January is considered the heart of the Greek islands' off-season , and there is little tourist activity. The weather is cold -colder than on the mainland- and although the sun may shine due to Greece being a generally sunny country, you must pack your heavy winter clothes with you.

Again, not all tourist facilities will be open, and some accommodation options will be closed, leaving you with little choice. 

However, you will find some hotels and local shops, and restaurants that will offer you a genuine Greek island life experience that you may not have the opportunity to enjoy amid the summer craze.  

What's more, if you're a backpacker and want to spend your days browsing the fascinating caldera cliffs, January might be a great time to visit Santorini and escape the blazing heat. 

Visiting Santorini in February

catamaran santorini dancar shutterstock

Visiting Santorini in February is not much different from visiting Santorini in January. However, February is usually Greece's coldest month, so you should be prepared for really low temperatures and whether that may not resemble the pictures you've seen on Instagram of Greece .

The water will be too cold to swim unless you're an experienced year-long swimmer, and there may be strong winds that will create an uninviting environment; no wine-tasting will be taking place during that month.

But, on the positive aspects, things are a lot cheaper, and you can still find open restaurants in most major tourist areas.  

Suppose you visit Santorini during the winter months . In that case, it is an excellent opportunity to mingle with the welcoming locals who feel like enjoying your time on their island is their responsibility!

Visiting Santorini in March

colorful street in oia santorini Anilah shutterstock

With March comes the first glimmer of spring. Then, the temperature starts rising at the end of March, the days grow longer, and the sun shines brighter.

While March is still quite chilly by Greek standards, people from northern Europe and other colder countries will love it! In fact, temperatures can sometimes even reach 20 degrees at midday, but this temperature isn't constant. 

What makes Santorini so great in March is that despite the improvement in the weather, the hotel prices remain relatively low. The water is still freezing during the month of March. However, the more daring visitors might try diving in them before marveling at the famous Santorinian sunset. 

Generally, in Santorini, spring brings a beautiful environment with beautiful blooms of flowers and beautiful shades mixing with sea views. The skies are bright, with good conditions for long, relaxing walks. Temperatures at night range between 75-80 °F, with slightly warmer days.  

It is less touristic in the spring and therefore suited for romantic getaways or solo travels. Families seeking quieter may enjoy spring in Santorini . Hotels are less expensive than in summer, and you should be able to get great deals when flying in.

Visiting Santorini in April

couple santorini Kalamurzing shutterstock

The month of April brings the blooming season to Greece and the Greek islands, with the weather improving drastically and the Greek charm coming back to life.

April is still considered a low-season month, so you'll get a good deal on your flights and accommodation choice. The only exceptions are the Easter holidays which vary each year.

Although not quite as warm as during the peak summer months and probably still a bit chilly for the locals, the temperature is still considered relatively hot for non-Greeks. 

The bright month of April may be the best time to visit Santorini to enjoy a good deal of sun after an awfully long winter without the hassle the high-season months bring. 

What's more, April is the month that most businesses and restaurants open their doors for the season, so you'll have plenty of options regarding accommodation, entertainment, and food!

Visiting Santorini in May

ammoudi santorini Georgios Tsichlis shutterstock

May (along with September, which we will talk about below) is, in our opinion, the best time to visit Santorini to enjoy a genuine Greek island experience without the massive tourist crowds but with the lovely hot weather Greece is known for. May signals the start of the season's great weather!

During May, most days are warm and sunny days as well, while the water of the sea has warmed up enough to be welcoming for visitors. It is still cold, but it is manageable. 

The high season runs between May and September. Therefore, the businesses that didn't open in April will open in May, offering visitors of the island the opportunity to experience Santorini in full force.  

All in all, there is no real disadvantage to visiting Santorini in May that we can think of.

Visiting Santorini in June

couple toasting santorini Cultura Motion shutterstock

Of course, visiting Santorini in the summer is by far the most popular choice for travelers. It is considered by most the most beautiful time for visiting Santorini.

In addition, it allows the island's visitors to enjoy a plethora of activities they couldn't enjoy any other time of the year.

The summer period is hectic, especially in June or July. However, the summer months may be perfect for you, depending on your needs and activities.

Tourist numbers are much bigger in the summer, and therefore, during that time, all types of tours are plentiful, allowing you to get to know the island better, easier, and in a much more fun way.  

Things have started getting very busy in June, and long lines may await you. That being said, June is a beautiful month to visit Santorini. The first few weeks of June are still low in tourist numbers, and the water around famous beaches like Red Beach in Santorini is warm enough for swimming.

Visiting Santorini in July and August

couple windmills santorini Santorines shutterstock

Two words describe Santorini in July and August: busy and warm. High temperatures exceed 35 degrees in the morning, with the nights typically a bit more chilly, giving visitors a refreshing breath. 

The months of July and August are infamously the busiest month for the Greek islands and Santorini in particular, with the island flooding with travelers worldwide. For many, the height of summer is the ultimate time to visit our exotic country, and with good reason. 

However, if you choose July and August for your visit, you must keep in mind that the massive crowds may obstruct your peace, and they may get in the way of enjoying the island to its full potential. 

In our opinion, It's best to visit this beautiful island at a quieter time when the people won't get in the way of the striking sunset views .  

That being said, Santorini is beautiful, and no matter when you get to experience it, you will have the time of your lives, so if your work vacations or school breaks are during those months, grab the opportunity and visit Santorini no matter what!

Visiting Santorini in September

dinner in santorini Santorines shutterstock 311738597

The crowds thin out from the beginning of September, and the island gets back its relaxed vibe. It seems like everything is going back to normal again.

It's still busy but not as crazy as in July and August. Santorini is going through the high season rush again with great ease! Most restaurants are still open during September, serving the few tourists with delicious local dishes.

This month will make an exciting trip to get some summertime sunshine while escaping the hustle and bustle of the high season. 

In early September, Santorini has the best weather , and the Meltemi winds decrease. This is also the perfect time to visit wineries or sail on the water without having the blazing sun burn your skin. However, there is a chance of light rain. Although it is not probable, it is possible that the good weather.  

What's more, in late September, accommodation prices begin to drop, so you may get a great deal and have your trip cost significantly less than what it would cost during the middle of summer.

Visiting Santorini in October

loal wine in Santorini Songquan Deng shutterstock

Late September to early October marks the beginning of the low season, so visiting Santorini can be an ideal time if you are after a more offbeat vacation in this stunning popular destination. 

At the beginning of October, the weather is exceptionally warm, with cool evenings, making visitors comfortable during their travels. However, the high temperature is not 100% reliable, especially in late October.

The island is notably less crowded, and the beaches of Santorini that get swamped by people during the high season months seem like private beaches at your very disposal.  

The biggest bonus for visiting Santorini during October is that you will have the opportunity to get good hotel and flight deals, making your Santorini holidays affordable and, therefore, even more tempting.  

On the other hand, the downside of visiting Santorini in October (and late October in specific) is that some businesses and many restaurants may be closed for the season, promising to open again at the beginning of next summer.

When to visit Santorini - a summary

The best time to visit santorini for beach holidays.

kamari beach Zocchi Roberto shutterstock

In order to enjoy the crystal clear waters and unique beaches of Santorini, you must visit the island during the months with the highest temperatures. There is nothing better than visiting Greece when it has sunny weather.

From late spring (or early spring, depending on your tolerance) to early or late autumn, it is the beach season of Santorini . During that time, the weather in Santorini is ideal for endless hours on the beach, with the bright sun warming you up and the turquoise waters refreshing you.

You can even indulge in wine-tasting adventures after your swimming adventures to taste the infamous Santorini wines.

The best time to visit Santorini for a sailing adventure

Sunset sailing trip Maximusmeridi shutterstock

There really is no time that is not right for a sailing adventure in Santorini apart from winter. The mild weather and generally high temperatures make Santorini a perfect destination for a sailing or boat tour.

The months of May, June, September, and October are particularly ideal for sailing trips in Santorini due to the hot weather and lack of massive tourist crowds. As a result, it is also an excellent time for an island-hopping escapade.

The best time to visit Santorini for your honeymoon or Santorini elopement

dinner santorini Santorines shutterstock

If you want to experience the island of Santorini in the most romantic way possible, you may want to steer clear of the high-season months that are busy, buzzing, and wild.

You want to be able to enjoy the idyllic caldera sunsets Santorini is famous for without being cramped up next to strangers. The best time to do so is in May, September, or October when you can enjoy idyllic wine-tasting activities, boat tours, and warm weather with fewer tourists being on the island.

For more inspiration, you can always visit our Santorini tours page.

The best time to visit Santorini for parties and sunny weather

monolithos beach Claudio306 shutterstock

If you visit Santorini intending to party and socialize, then the high-season months between late June and late August are the perfect time for you.

The large crowds that might scare some people away from the island will be the perfect setting to make your dreams come true. At the same time, the hot weather will allow you to experience the full effect of the Mediterranean climate and enjoy your Greek vacation as you have imagined.

During those months, you will find a plethora of entertainment and eating establishments open to choose from, and you will be able to drink and dance your troubles away until the early morning hours.

The best time to visit Santorini for seclusion

oia sunset santorini Mariia Boiko shutterstock

If you want to seclude yourself from the outside world, contemplate life, and do it amid a unique imposing landscape by the sea, visit Santorini in winter, and you won't regret it. The Greek islands turn into a haven for peace and quiet in the winter.  

Of course, in that case, you must be ready to face challenging weather conditions and the lack of tourist facilities. However, it might be worth it if you want to become a recluse for a little while.

When to book accommodation for Santorini 

old port amoudi oia santorini kavalenkava shutterstock

With Santorini being the most popular destination in Greece alongside Mykonos, it is no surprise that the earlier you book your accommodation, the better. 

Ideally, it would be best if you tried to book your accommodation at least 2-3 months before your arrival. This way, you will get better prices, while you will also have the opportunity to book upscale rooms and be spoilt for choice.  

red beach santorini Lucian BOLCA shutterstock

All accommodation offerings in Santorini get fully booked from early spring, so you should make sure not to leave your reservations for the last minute because there is a high chance you won't find anywhere to stay. Even if you do it, it will be both overpriced and underwhelming. 

Other Greek islands near Santorini for an island-hopping trip

pool santorini caldera Netfalls Remy Musser shutterstock

Santorini is located alone at the southernmost point of the Cyclades. Below Santorini are the Cretan Sea and Crete.

Next to Santorini, west and north, are some beautiful and popular islands of the Cyclades, Ios, Sikinos, and Folegandros. To the east is Anafi, while next to Santorini, part of its Caldera is the traditional Thirasia.  

As a result, you can combine your visit to Santorini with a visit to other Greek islands,  such as those on day trips from Santorini , and have the time of your life! Especially if you have many days to spare, it would be ideal to visit as many of them as possible through an island-hopping or sailing adventure.

Final Thoughts

santorini holidays Netfalls Remy Musser shutterstock

The island of Santorini has been established as a firm favorite among travelers around the world due to its unique beauty, cosmopolitan vibe, and luxurious ambiance.

Now you can book one of our Greece vacation packages and visit Santorini at the best time for you! Trust us; you will want to return to the island repeatedly, so start with what sounds best, and you can go from there and explore every season on the island. Santorini is a people pleaser, and the best time to visit Santorini is any time!

Frequently Asked Questions

When should you avoid santorini.

Absolutely never! There is no reason good enough to keep you away from Santorini any time of the year. That being said, depending on what you're looking for, there are specific periods you should prefer over other ones. 

For example, if you're looking for a quiet getaway, you should stay away from Santorini in July and August, when the island is very crowded, and the stores are always very full.

Regardless, there is a guarantee of an unforgettable experience, even if you can't walk the streets of Oia at sunset without bumping shoulders with other travelers.

How many days do you need in Santorini?

Our recommendation would be to spend at least three days on the islands of Santorini in order to do it justice.

Santorini is a fascinating island, and aside from Oia , the volcano, the ancient history, and the stunning sunset views, there are plenty of exciting attractions that will keep you occupied for days. 

Again, ideally, the more days you get to spend on the island, the merrier. Of course, ten days would be the absolute dream, but it is understandable that, unfortunately, many people don't have ten days to spend on vacation. 

If need be, you could also spend as few as 24 hours on the island and just get a taste of it. This can happen through a day trip you will indulge in from another island of the Cyclades or if Santorini is one of the stops of your island-hopping trip.

One thing is for sure: you'll be coming back for more as soon as possible. 

Is there a rainy season on Santorini Island?

The year can be divided into two seasons, the warm, dry months between March and September and the cold, wet months between October and February.

The hottest months on the island are August and July, with a cooler, rainy season in September and October. January and February are the coldest months, with windfall and unwelcoming temperatures.

What is the cheapest month to go to Santorini?

In order to ensure an affordable trip to Santorini , you must find cheap flights, ferry tickets, and accommodation. A combination that is nearly impossible to find on the popular island.

During the peak season, and especially during the months of June, July, and August, the prices are at their highest.  

Accordingly, shoulder season and low season months are more affordable. As a result, the cheapest months to travel to Santorini are the winter months, while if you want to enjoy warm weather and fewer tourists alongside great prices, the low season month of October is the best time to plan your trip to Santorini!

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Champion Traveler

Cost of a Trip to Santorini, GR & the Cheapest Time to Visit Santorini

The average price of a 7-day trip to Santorini is $4,004 for a solo traveler, $7,191 for a couple, and $13,481 for a family of 4 . Santorini hotels range from $58 to $238 per night with an average of $137, while most vacation rentals will cost $190 to $1060 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Nikos Kazantzakis Airport ( HER ) are between $806 and $5,065 per person for economy flights and $2,529 to $15,894 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $59 to $123 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Santorini, GR

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to HER and stay in a Santorini hotel:

  • April 23rd to October 21st

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Santorini is usually late September .

Average Santorini Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Santorini for a week is $1,361-$7,037 ($194-$1,005 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $59 to $123 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $468 to $4,508 for economy

Lodging : $80 to $108 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $228 to $278 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Santorini for a week is $2,918-$13,520 ($417-$1,931 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $118 to $246 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $936 to $9,016 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Santorini for a week is $4,484-$24,146 ($641-$3,449 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $236 to $492 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,872 to $18,032 for economy

Lodging : $160 to $216 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $319 to $445 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Santorini

How cheap can you make a vacation to Santorini? The cheapest trip to Santorini is about $139 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 0% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $148 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $51.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Santorini for a week is $970-$6,035 ($139-$862 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $28 to $57 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $51 to $58 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $148 to $188 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Santorini for a week is $1,634-$10,942 ($233-$1,563 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $56 to $114 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Santorini for a week is $3,268-$21,206 ($467-$3,029 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $112 to $228 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $102 to $116 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $237 to $263 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is very difficult to travel to Santorini cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Santorini Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Santorini.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Santorini for a week is $3,328-$27,915 ($475-$3,988 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $124 to $258 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,320 to $13,389 for first class

Lodging : $190 to $238 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $1,060 to $2,120 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Santorini for a week is $5,516-$43,110 ($788-$6,159 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $248 to $516 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,640 to $26,778 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Santorini for a week is $11,032-$79,860 ($1,576-$11,409 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $496 to $1,032 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $5,280 to $53,556 for first class

Lodging : $380 to $476 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $1,484 to $3,180 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Santorini Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Santorini is much higher than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Santorini due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Santorini Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Santorini hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Santorini.

Flight Costs to Santorini

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $5,065 average in early to mid March to a low of $806 in late September. Median flight price is $1,124. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Santorini our data includes 158 originating airports, and 118 airlines. The area has much more variance in price compared with other locations. Flying to Santorini from an airport like Henry E. Rohlsen ( STX ) in Christiansted, VI (the United States) for an average $5,924 trip fare will obviously cost a lot more than from an airport like Eleftherios Venizelos International ( ATH ) in Athens (Greece) at an average of just $130.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Saturday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Saturday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Santorini, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $4,258, so you can easily save about 528% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Santorini can easily cost $430 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $28 per person. Private tours can cost $851 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Santorini Guides

Travel costs nearby.

  • Santorini Island, Greece
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  • Anafi, Greece
  • Koufonisia, Greece
  • Folegandros, Greece
  • Amorgos, Greece
  • Naxos, Greece
  • Antiparos, Greece
  • Paros, Greece
  • Cyclades Islands, Greece

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These Are the Best Times to Visit Greece

Anthony Grant

Finally ready for that dream trip to Greece ? With a coastline longer than the United Kingdom's and thousands of islands, the country is a great place to visit any time of year. But absent a last-minute flight deal (and they do come up, though nonstop options from the US are still limited), planning ahead is the way to go in order to make the most of your time in Greece.

The urban attractions of Athens thrum at full tilt all year long, while most Greek islands are at their best once winter has left the picture. Whether it's sultry Mediterranean breezes you seek or the cheapest time to book that hotel room with a sea view in Mykonos, consider this your essential guide to planning a perfect trip to Greece.

The Best Weather in Greece

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

Generally, the best weather in Greece is what you'll experience in May, June and September. Plenty of sunny days that aren't too hot make May an ideal time for long, leisurely walks in Athens. By June, the beaches of the Aegean islands are warm enough for swimming and popular islands like Mykonos aren't crowded yet.

July is when things get toasty and sometimes uncomfortably humid in Athens, and the city is crowded with tourists then, too. August, naturally, means great beach weather, and if you like your big cities to yourself then it's also a fine time for Athens, as most Athenians ditch the capital.

September has lots of advantages (namely: fewer tourists), but the days are still long and warm and better yet, it's less humid than in July and August. In Crete, the southernmost Greek island, you can go swimming well into October.

The Best Times to Visit Cities in Greece

The two biggest cities in Greece are the capital, Athens , and Thessaloniki. Both are destinations in their own right and for culture vultures there is really no bad time to go. In the peak summer season, major attractions in Athens such as the Acropolis Museum are more crowded than in wintertime, when on many days you'll have even iconic places like the Acropolis largely to yourself. Winter in Athens is also a great time to check out lesser-known museums, tune up your Instagram or warm up in a luxe Turkish bath .

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

Generally speaking, think of April to June as the ideal times to explore Athens and other Greek cities including historic Nafplio. Thessaloniki is a vibrant city with a wealth of cultural attractions, but in the height of summer it gets so humid they actually have public fans in places to keep the air circulating.

Choose shoulder season months like October and May for an optimal experience there. Most island towns are empty of tourists from November until around the time of Greek Easter, but the main town in Corfu and the Cretan cities like Heraklion are up and running all year long.

When to Visit Greece for Events

From religious holidays to cultural festivals, there are plenty of events worth attending throughout the year.

Spring Events

Greek Orthodox Easter is the most important holiday in the Greek calendar by far. In 2019, Greek Easter falls on Sunday, April 28, but festivities actually begin the week prior on the Saturday of Lazarus. Easter is celebrated in different ways throughout the country, with many variations on the candlelit processions of Good Friday and Easter Sunday celebrations themselves — but you can count on plenty of lamb roasts and fireworks. Easter in Corfu is one of the most famous, but wherever you are in Greece during this time you can expect to experience at least some of the country's very rich and colorful Easter traditions.

Summer Events

Summer is when most music and arts festivals are in full swing. The Athens and Epidaurus Festival is the country's most prestigious annual summer arts festival, with events taking place at the ancient stone Odeon of Herodes Atticus theater (the Herodion) below the Acropolis as well as south of Athens at the amphitheater of Epidaurus, the best-preserved theater of the ancient world. Events include a mix of classic and contemporary (last summer, Bill Murray recited poetry in the Herodion) and are usually scheduled from late June to early August.

The Athens Festival in Epidaurus, Greece. (Photo by Giannis Alexopoulos/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

On the day of the August Full Moon Festival in Athens, museums and ancient sites are open in the evening free of charge until midnight.

Assumption is Aug. 15. It's a public holiday in Greece and considered the "Summer Easter." On this day, life in Athens pretty much grinds to a halt as Athenians dash off to the countryside or the islands. If you want to make sure you have a good place to stay anywhere outside of Athens on Aug. 15 or in the two weeks following, it's increasingly essential that you plan and reserve ahead of time.

Fall Events

The prestigious Thessaloniki International Film Festival is usually held during the first part of November. And while they're not exactly going to enrich anybody in cultural terms, Black Friday shopping events in November have recently taken Greeks by storm.

Winter Events

Christmas in Greece is nowhere near as big a deal as Greek Easter, but there are festive lights in the center of big cities like Athens. Also in Athens, New Year's Eve means festive fireworks over the Acropolis.

Fireworks explode over the Parthenon temple atop the Athens Acropolis hill during New Year's day celebrations, in Athens on January 1st, 2017. (Photo by Panayotis Tzamaros/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

The Best Times to Explore the Greek Islands

The best times to visit mykonos and santorini.

What ultimately draws visitors to Santorini is the views over the volcanic caldera and not the beaches, and that appeal has fueled the island's rise as a year-round destination. May and June are the best times to dodge the crowds but also enjoy some sun. Otherwise, it's probably better to wait until after mid-September.

Mykonos is a bit trickier: in May and June (and again in September) you'll have more elbow room at the island's many beaches and posh beach bars, but to get a taste of the international razzle dazzle for which the place is most famous, July and August do rock to that inimitable Mediterranean island vibe. But it's also a very expensive vibe. Unlike in Santorini, by the end of September it's already very quiet again in Mykonos.

Santorini, Greece. (Photo by Cosmic Timetraveler/Unsplash)

The Best Times to Visit Other Islands

Whether it's Corfu in the Ionian Islands, Rhodes and Patmos in the Dodecanese archipelago, Paros and the other islands that make up the Cyclades or Crete, the best time of year for an island visit is generally going to be in June, July or September. Prices are lower and hotel rooms are more readily available in June and September, and you can count on warm weather in those months, too.

Loads of Greeks and other Europeans on summer holiday can make island travel in August a real challenge — and sometimes a downright headache. And many islands have their off-season charms: For example, the Saronic Islands near Athens like Hydra and Aegina are easy and fun to visit any time of year (but beach time is mainly May through September).

When to Visit Greece to Avoid Crowds

The tourism season in Greece typically gets going after Greek Easter, with shoulder season ramping up in May and the peak season stretching from the latter part of June into July and all of August. Increasingly, in places like Athens and Crete, September is now considered a high season month.

If you want to avoid crowds in Athens, time your summer travel for June or August instead of July. In the Cycladic archipelago (which includes Mykonos and Santorini), avoid July and August unless you don't mind crowded ferries and higher prices.

In Crete, you can expect crowds at many beaches and in the cities of Heraklion and Chania from June right up until October, so consider June or early fall for Crete. By contrast, in Corfu where the beach season is not quite as long as in Crete, you'll have an easier time avoiding crowds in September.

Winter in Athens tends to be cold and damp, but there are still many sunny days and exploring museums and ancient ruins in the absence of crowds and big tour groups can be quite cool.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Greece

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

Traveling to Greece is usually priciest during peak season, so if you're looking to save, wait until the off-peak or shoulder seasons. The best hotel deals in Athens are going to be from early January through March, but weather is not at its best at that time. You can generally find good hotel deals in April, May, the first part of June and sometimes in September (but less so in Crete).

The shoulder seasons in Greece run from April through the first part of June, and then from about mid-September through mid-October.

Affordable Airfare

Unsurprisingly, airfare is at its most expensive during the summer. July, specifically, is the priciest month when, according to the farecasting app Hopper, long-haul flight prices are around $1,090 round-trip. In May, that dips to $930 round-trip. But during the shoulder seasons and in winter, prices plunge accordingly.

Currently, all American airlines offer only seasonal nonstop flights to Athens and they tend to be expensive, but there's often a workaround. Find a cheap ticket to either London Heathrow (LHR) or London Gatwick (LGW) and then find a flight that fits your schedule with Greek carrier Aegean : a Star Alliance member with several flights a day from London to Athens International Airport (ATH). Plus, you'll typically get better service than you would from the British low-cost carriers, plus meals are included.

Affordable Hotels

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

The most expensive time to book a hotel room in Athens is generally in the summer. The cheapest times are January (after the New Year holiday) and February. The most expensive time to book rooms in popular islands like Mykonos and Santorini is July and especially August.

According to Booking.com , based on bookings made between January 2018 and December 2018, hotels in Athens are 33% more affordable in February than compared to the most expensive month of the year, which (for Booking.com ) is June. Hotels in Santorini in January are 51% more affordable than they are in August, and for Mykonos, March is 73% more affordable than August.

If you're planning to visit Mykonos in the summer, you should plan ahead as much as possible and if you find a deal (paid or points), grab it. Expect hotels on many Greek islands — not just Mykonos and Santorini but also ones like Syros and Sifnos — to be completely sold out over the Aug. 15 Assumption holiday and do not assume you'll be able to find a deal, or anything really, on the spot during that extremely busy time.

In Crete's largest city of Heraklion as well as elsewhere on the island, the high season now effectively runs through the whole month of September, making it wise to book ahead in Crete even for early fall travel.

Home » Travel Tips

landscape of santorini

When is the Best Time to Visit Santorini?

It’s considered one of the most romantic destinations in the world. Once you see the cliffside views for yourself, you’ll know why. But Santorini isn’t just a magnet for lovebirds. It’s also a sanctuary for history buffs, photographers, foodies, and anyone who appreciates a jaw-dropping vista when they see one. 

The island of Santorini is the gem of the Aegean Sea, and it happens to be beautiful all year round. Want to know the best time to visit? Read on for honest advice on when to book based on weather, annual events, attractions, and more.

Table of Contents

The weather in santorini, santorini’s most popular annual events, the best tourist attractions in santorini (and when to visit them), greek sporting events that make tourists go wild, greek public holidays and occasions.

Santorini’s lovely Mediterranean climate means hot, dry summers and mild winters. This makes it the perfect destination for year-round travel. Here is what you can expect from the four main seasons on the island.

Spring (March to May)

You can expect warm and sunny days in spring, with occasional wind and rain. It’s a great time to beat the summer crowds and snap up a travel deal. Temperature-wise, you can expect highs of 63°F in March, 64°F by April, and 72°F by May. By late May, resorts will fill up in time for the peak season.

Summer (June to August)

From June onwards, it’s the high season in Santorini. Expect perfect beach and pool weather, with highs of 84°F or more. July and August are the busiest months; around this time, airfare is at its most expensive, while hotels and restaurants are at their most crowded.

Fall (September to November)

September is still warm, with highs of 79°F, making this a great month to travel. While the island cools down by October (72°F) and November (64°F), there’s still lots to see and do. So if you’re looking to find a good deal and avoid the crowds, fall is the best time to visit Santorini.

Winter (December to February)

The colder season can be chilly, but it rarely gets below 49°F, making it mild compared to other European winter destinations. Although some days may be cloudy and overcast, the views are still worth the long flight. It’s also the low season, making it the cheapest time to travel.

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

Take a break from the beach or poolside and head to one of these amazing events or festivals to soak up some of Santorini’s culture.

Orthodox Easter (April)

Easter is the most important public event in Greece and is celebrated everywhere in the country. In Santorini, traditions include the gunpowder war of Milos, the sinking of the Epitaph in the sea, and Pyrgos village lit up by candlelight.

Open Air Cinema Kamari (May to October)

Santorini’s open-air cinema invites guests to enjoy some late-night entertainment throughout the summer. It’s the perfect post-dinner activity, and movies are screened in English with Greek subtitles. Tickets are €8 ($9 USD).

Santorini Jazz Festival (July)

The annual Jazz Festival takes place in July, attracting jazz fans from around the country (and the world) with both Greek and international jazz musicians. Head to the beachside in Kamari to enjoy the entertainment.

Aegean Regatta 2022

The Aegean Regatta is Greece’s biggest open sea sailing event and passes right through the scenic Caldera of Santorini. The ocean transforms from July 8th to 16th, and boats compete in multiple offshore races.

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

More than just sun, sea, and sand, Santorini will never leave you bored. Here are some top sights and attractions to check out while you’re here.

Firá

Make sure you visit the island’s capital, Firá. This neighborhood can be reached on foot, by mules (available for hire), or by cable car from the port of Skala. Known for its white-washed buildings, winding lanes, and blue-domed churches, it’s a photographer’s paradise.  

Next Vacay Travel Tip: The best time to visit Santorini for walking around is between April and early November when there is little rain.

Just seven and a half miles up the coast from Firá is the picture-perfect village of Oia, famed for its breathtaking sunset views. Here you’ll find a few boutique hotels with infinity pools, making it a romantic location for couples.

Next Vacay Travel Tip: Travel between June and September when the weather is warm for the best poolside relaxation.

Visit this sea-filled volcanic crater which measures a whopping seven and a half miles. The area is still home to volcanic activity, making the boat tours that take you around the different sites an even more exciting adventure. Prices start from €25 ($27 USD) per person.

Next Vacay Travel Tip: Book your boat tour in April/May or September/October to avoid crowds.

This famous volcanic beach sits below a red cliff wall and sports sand in various colors (mostly red). The unique rock formations and marine life make this beach ideal for snorkelers.

Next Vacay Travel Tip: For snorkel fans, the water is warmest between May and late September.

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

There’s a long sporting history throughout Greece, and the island of Santorini isn’t short of sports bars for those who need to get their fix of live sports.

Super League Football

Greece’s national sport is football, and the Super League runs from August to May each year. You can also watch AS Santorini 2020 in the Gamma Ethniki League, which usually begins in September or October.

Greek Basket League

Basketball is the second most important sport in Greece, with the Greek Basket League opening in October and ending in June.

Easter is one of the biggest celebrations in Greece, and this is a fantastic time to visit the island. Taking place before the summer rush, it doesn’t get overly crowded but still offers a fun-filled atmosphere. However, be aware that some shops and businesses close on Easter Sunday.

Christmas is another public holiday that could impact shops, services, and public transport. Other holidays to bear in mind include Independence Day on March 25th, Labor Day on May 1st, Assumption on August 15th, and Ochi Day in October.

Get your fill of sun, sand, and beautiful views with a flight that doesn’t break the bank. Sign up for the Next Vacay newsletter to get the best deals on your future trip to paradise. 

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cheapest time to visit santorini greece

Best Time to Visit Greece and the greek islands

Updated On: January 9, 2024

Written By: Pavlos Inglesis

Greece is not the same every month of the year, as it’s a country with 4 distinct seasons and a hot summer. The best time to visit Greece and the greek islands really depends on what you are looking for, from your holidays in my beautiful country.

best time to visit greece

A trip to Greece is completely different in the winter and compared to the summer, as there are different things you can do in every season.

BEST HOTELS IN GREECE AND THE GREEK ISLANDS:

  • In Athens: The Dolli
  • In Santorini: Cavo Tagoo
  • In Mykonos: Amazon Suites
  • In Crete: Creta Maris
  • In Corfu: Akrotiri Beach Resort
  • In Naxos: Nissaki
  • In Paros: PAROCKS
  • In Skiathos: Skiathos Palace
  • In Milos: Noma Milos
  • In Ios: Hide Out Suites
  • In Meteora: Doupiani House
  • In Delfi: Amalia Hotel

The beauty of Greece is that it is an extremely diverse country with lots of things to do in any month. but the best time to travel to Greece usually depends on what you are looking for from your trip.

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Greek islands like Mykonos and Santorini are probably the most famous destinations in Greece, but you have to be aware of the peak season and the shoulder season of these islands as they can be swamped with tourists during certain times of the year.

The best time to visit Greece is June or September, where you will get warm weather but fewer tourists, in general. This does not apply to Santorini and Mykonos islands however, as they are equally crowded even in June or September and it would be better to visit those islands in May or the end of September/early October to avoid the tourist crowds. All Covid-19 restrictions have now been lifted for Greece, and the tourist crowds have returned!

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

READ ALSO:  Best Time to visit Santorini Best Greek Islands for Older Couples Best Greek Islands for Families Best Greek Islands for Couples Best Things to Do in Greece Tipping in Greece: when and how much

vlychada beach white

VERY IMPORTANT TO KNOW:

  • Best Time to visit Greece for beaches and swimming in the sea: May to October (sea water will be warm enough)
  • Best Time to Visit Greece for Weather: the weather in Greece is at its best between June and October (temperatures between 20-35 degrees C and very minimal rain)
  • When is summer in Greece (read to find out)
  • Best Month to Visit Greece: May or October because the weather will be warm but you it will be less everywhere
  • Best Time to Visit Greece for Honeymoon: the best time for a honeymoon in Greece is June or September as the weather will be warm enough and the crowds won’t be that bad.
  • Best Time to Visit Mykonos and Santorini: the best time to visit Santorini and Mykonos islands is May, mid-June and mid-September or October. Both islands islands can get extremely crowded even in June or Septemnber the last years so you should probably avoid these months too.
  • Best Greek Island for Teenagers : definitely Crete as it’s the island with the most exctiting things to see and do
  • Best Time for partying, buzz, crowds:  July, August, early September (this is when all greek islands and mainland Greece are buzzling with people and tourists)
  • Avoid visiting Greece in August by all means : August is by far the worst time to visit Greece as it is the month where greeks actually go on holidays and it will be packed and super expensive everywhere
  • Most businesses, hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars on the greek islands close  between and including November-March; this is considered the low season in Greece (or winter)

Weather in Greece

Here are the average temperatures in Athens Greece for the whole year:

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

As you can see from the figure above, Greece has very mild weather compared to other European countries or even compared to North American weather.

The weather on the Greek islands can be very windy in the summer (July and mostly August) but this is something that cannot be predicted, so I am not going to give you any advice on that other than you should be prepared for it.

As a rule of thumb and according to my experience of having visited almost all greek islands the last 35 years, the only thing that can ruin your greek holidays is not the temperature or rain, but the strong winds that you may come across, which will prevent you from enjoying a day on the beach.

There are some greek islands that are notoriously windy (such as Andros or even some parts of Crete) but in general, you shouldn’t worry that much, and chances are that you won’t face any typhoons or storms (there is none of this in Greece by the way!).

Best Time to Visit Greece for swimming and beach life

koukounaria beach skiathos

Beaches in Greece are some of the best in the world, so beach life and swimming in the crystal waters of the Aegean sea or the Ionian sea makes absolute sense as the main target of your trip to Greece!

The best time of year to visit Greece for beaches and swimming is during the summer months of June, July, August, and September as this is when the sea waters will be hot and you will enjoy the most beach bars and clubs on every island (or even mainland Greece).

Best time to visit Greece for good weather

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

The best time to visit Greece if you are looking for warm weather is any month between June and October.

The temperatures during these months are the highest of the year and they can actually be boiling (up to 42 degrees Celsius due to world climate change).

You should be very careful during that time because the sun can be very harmful if you are not protecting your skin properly or hydrating yourself regularly.

If you are not used to those temperatures or you want less hot weather then you should visit Greece in May or October because the weather is definitely less hot during these months.

santorini crowds

You should also bear in mind that the weather during the winter (or low season) months from November till April can be very unpredictable.

You may get 25 degrees and sun or you may get 0 degrees and snow!

BUT as a rule of thumb, you should always have in mind that bad weather in Greece only lasts for a few days (3-5 days on average).

In fact, every time we have terrible weather in Greece with snow or colder temperatures…it’s on the news! 😊

Best Time to Visit Greece for Honeymoon

santorini honeymoon

A honeymoon in Greece can be an exceptional experience but I truly believe you are going to have the best time if you go to Greece in June.

June in Greece has awesome sunny and warm weather which is perfect for swimming in your private pool or in the sea.

The great thing about June in Greece though is that in general, the islands are less crowded and less expensive.

This does not apply to Santorini and Mykonos though as they are expensive any time of the year nowadays but you will definitely find fewer tourist crowds during those months.

W hen is summer in Greece ?

Summer in Greece is the months of June, July, and August but you will also get sunny warm weather in May and in September.

For you to understand the temperatures in Greece bear in mind that April and May in Greece are like the hottest months you can get in major European cities such as Paris or London UK.

santorini beach

June, July, and August can be very hot (taking into account the global climate change as well…) you may get temperatures of up to 43-44 degrees Celsius (110 Fahrenheit).

Weather in Greece in September

I keep on telling people who want to go to Greece that September is the best month to do so because the weather is not that hot and most of the places are not that crowded with tourists.

Weather in Greece in September is exceptional with temperatures up to 32 degrees Celsius. Here is the weather in Greece in September in a nutshell:

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

What is the best month to travel to Greece?

The best month of the year to travel to Greece and to the greek islands is June and September. This is usually called the shoulder season in Greece, while July and August is the peak season (or high season). During these 2 months, you will get warm summer weather (between 20-35 degrees Celsius or 70-95 degrees Fahrenheit) but you will also get fewer tourists and lower prices in general. The summer months in Greece are June, July, and August but most tourists and the large cruise ships go to Greece in July and August so these are the busiest and most expensive months. So, I would say that the best time to go to Greece is mid-June or mid-September where you will get warm weather but fewer tourists.

When should you avoid Greece?

You should definitely avoid visiting Greece during July and August as these are the busiest and also hottest months. You should also know that 99% of the Greeks go on holiday in August. If you want to visit any Greek island such as Santorini or Mykonos you should definitely avoid July and August and also possibly September as the last years September feels like August in these 2 islands.

What is the cheapest time to go to Greece?

The cheapest time to go to Greece is the low season (or winter) which is the months between November and March. You can also visit Greece in April or May but this is usually the time when the greek easter occurs and it’s usually the time when the Greeks go to the countryside or the islands they come from to celebrate Easter Sunday of the Greek Orthodox Easter. usually, the prices in hotels and Airbnb’s are slightly more expensive during that time. If money is an issue for you then I would recommend visiting Greece during the winter or at least visit in the should seasons of May-June and September-October.

How many days in Greece is enough?

You need at least 7 days in Greece but it really depends on your situation and if your visit is part of a longer visit in Europe. In theory, the absolute minimum number of days you need in Greece is 3 days. During these 3 days, you can spend 1 day in Athens and then head to one of the greek islands (make it Santorini if you can as it is the most impressive greek island). I do not generally recommend visiting Greece for such a short period of time as I am not a big fan of the tick-the-box holidays and I really like to spend some proper quality time anywhere but I also understand that everyone’s situation (and bank account…) is different so that’s my advice!

Which Greek island is the prettiest?

Well, if you ask a greek this question you will get a different answer! However, it is globally accepted that Santorini is the prettiest island of them all and there are excellent reasons to believe that in general. My personal opinion is that every greek island is an extremely pretty destination and you can definitely find beauty and amazing places on each one of these, even the less known ones.

The best time to visit Greece is definitely some time between the months of June and September.

All areas are usually less crowded in June but you will still get awesome warm weather and you should be able to go swimming and enjoy the sunny summer weather.

You should definitely avoid August as it is the most crowded month of the year and accommodation and restaurants can be very expensive during that time.

You should also bear in mind that most businesses (hotels, rooms, bars, restaurants, and shops) on the islands operate mostly between May and October.

The weather in Greece in September is awesome and it still feels like summer for the most part with sunny days and warm sea waters.

Photo of author

RECOMMENDED WEBSITES FOR GREECE:

🛏️ Booking.com   is the website with the most available rooms and Private Villas in Athens, Santorini , Mykonos & Crete  (more than Airbnb!)

⛴️ Ferryhopper   is the best website to book your ferry tickets or check the timetables for Santorini, Mykonos , Crete & all greek islands

🏺 Get Your Guide  has the best and largest variety of Tours in Athens and the greek islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete etc)

🚙 Rentalcars is the easiest way to rent a car or a quad for Greece with thousands of available options

✈️ Booking.com Flights  has all the available flights to and from the greek islands

🚕 Book Your Driver (Taxi) directly with booking.com's large and safe platform of available certified drivers

SUBSCRIBE to my Youtube Channel for Updated Guides and Videos for the Greek Islands!

4 thoughts on “Best Time to Visit Greece and the greek islands”

Thanks for this! I’m planning a trip in late november, after reading your blog, I wondering if you think it’s still an advisable time to go since it’s going to be cold and rainy?

You are definitely going to have a great time any time you visit Greece but unfortunately you won’t be able to enjoy the beach life in November. Almost 100% of the business by the beach close at the end of October and the sea will probably be too cold for most people in November.

I wanted to know if you think I should visit in 1st week of April.. I am planning a trip for my birthday.. but I have received contradicting answers on google.. some say it is the worst some say it is good…will i get to enjoy the beaches in April? And is it lively in general during that time?

Hi, The weather in early April won’t be summer perfect so you won’t be able to enjoy the beach life to be honest. It also really depends on the place that you will visit. If you are looking to visit the islands then they will definitely feel deserted but Santorini always has lots of tourists throughout the year but the beach side areas will be pretty much empty.Bear in mind that April is usually the month where the Greek Easter occurs which is a pretty big celebration for us in Greece and all the areas (including the islands) get livelier. So, if beach life and awesome weather is your main priority then 1st week of April is not the best time to visit Greece. You are most likely going to get good weather but it’s not for sure as March and April have relatively unstabel weather but you may also get sunny days with 20 degrees celsius. You can definitely swim in the beach if you dare to, but the water will be cold for most people (it also depends on your experience and what you think is cold and hot). The main thing though is that most businesses on the beach side areas on all islands (restaurants, hotels and beach bars) will be closed as they usually open towards the end of April and early May and then close at the end of October. If you are looking to visit Athens though, April is probably the best time for all the attractions as you will avoid the crowds of the summer and the very hot weather. Hope that helps!

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TOP RATED HOTELS IN:

Santorini:  Canaves Oia Suites Mykonos:  Cavo Tagoo Mykonos Athens:  Coco-Mat Athens Crete:  Domes Noruz Chania Hotel  Corfu:  Corfu Imperial Resort Rhodes:  Casa Cook Rhodes

Delphi: Amalia Hotel

Meteora: Doupiani House

TOP RATED VILLAS IN:

Santorini:  Villa Aura

Mykonos:  Villa Evi

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Crete:  Cavo Dago Villa

BEST THINGS TO DO IN GREECE:

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READERS SAID:

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pavlos ingelsis about

My name is Pavlos and I come from the beautiful country called Greece. You can follow me on Twitter here and I will try to do my best to respond to you personally. This is my blog to help you plan your next holidays to Greece and the greek islands, whether it is Santorini, Mykonos, Crete or even Athens. I was actually born in Athens, and I have been to almost all of the greek islands and pretty much most of mainland Greece. I know the ins and outs of my country and hopefully, my travel blog will help you make the most of your holidays.

Booking.com  i s the website with the most available rooms and Private Villas in Athens, Santorini , Mykonos & Crete  (more than Airbnb!)

Ferryhopper    is the best website to book your ferry tickets or check the timetables for Santorini, Mykonos , Crete & all greek islands

Get Your Guide  has the best and largest variety of Tours in Athens and the greek islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete etc)

Rentalcars is the easiest way to rent a car or a quad for Greece with thousands of available options

Booking.com Flights  has all the available flights to and from the greek islands

Santorini Secrets

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How to Get to Santorini

Greece › Santorini › Getting There Updated: June 6, 2023 By Santorini Dave

  • Best Hotels in Santorini
  • Where to Stay in Santorini
  • Santorini Ferry Port Guide
  • Heraklion (Crete) Ferry Port Guide
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Finding Santorini Flights, Ferries and Hotels The earlier you can book Santorini hotels and flights the better (4 to 8 months in advance). Large ferries rarely sell out, smaller catamarans sometimes do. These can be booked about 1 to 3 months in advance. Kayak has long been my favorite site for cheap flights but a simple Google search with origin and destination now gives very thorough results. FerryHopper.com is the best way to research ferry schedules and book tickets for ferries in Greece.

Map showing possible air and sea routes to Santorini, Greece

Flights to Santorini

Map showing locations that provide direct flights to Santorini

How to Get to Santorini from Athens

How To Get To Santorini, Greece by Ferry

The morning ferry from Athens to Santorini. Most ferries to Santorini (but not all) leave between 7am and 8am from the Piraeus ferry port. Taxis can pull up right to the ferry. The metro station is across the street. Tickets can be picked up at the kiosks very close to the ferries. Flying to Santorini is faster but the ferry is more fun and unique. I also find ferry travel more relaxed and hassle-free than the stress of airport crowds and security checks.

Step 1 : Get to Athens – there are many cheap flights from western Europe. Step 2 : Buy ferry ticket – book tickets online or buy at a travel agent in Athens or at the ferry port. Step 3 : Take the metro (20 to 30 minutes) or taxi (30 to 40 minutes) to the Piraeus ferry port. Most ferries leave in the morning, plan to arrive 1 hour in advance. Step 4 : Enjoy the ride to Santorini. The trip from Athens to Santorini takes 5 hours on a highspeed ferry and 8 hours on a conventional ferry. Views as you enter the caldera are wonderful. More info: Athens to Santorini Ferries

How to Get to Santorini from London

Step 1 : Search for direct flights on Kayak.com . Buy the cheapest flight as there’s no difference in quality between the airlines. Step 2 : If there are no good direct flights search for flights via Athens, Paris, Rome, Naples, or Venice. Step 3 : If you want to spend time in Athens fly to Athens, then ferry to Santorini . Step 4 : When you arrive in Santorini take a short bus or taxi ride to Fira, Oia, or whatever town you’re staying in. (The island is small and all towns are less than 40 minutes from the airport or ferry port.)

How to Get to Santorini from Paris

Step 1 : Search for direct flights on Kayak.com . Buy the cheapest flight as there’s no difference in quality between the airlines. Step 2 : If there are no good direct flights search for flights via Athens, Rome, Naples, or Venice. Step 3 : If you want to spend time in Athens fly to Athens, then ferry to Santorini . Step 4 : When you arrive in Santorini take a short bus or taxi ride to Fira, Oia, or whatever town you’re staying in. (The island is small and all towns are less than 40 minutes from the airport or ferry port.)

How to Get to Santorini from Italy

Step 1 : Search for direct flights to Santorini from Rome, Naples, Pisa, Milan, or Venice on Kayak.com . Buy the cheapest flight as there’s no difference in quality between the airlines. Step 2 : If there are no good direct flights search for flights via Athens, Mykonos, or Crete. Step 3 : If you want to spend time in Athens fly to Athens, then ferry to Santorini . Step 4 : When you arrive in Santorini take a short bus or taxi ride to Fira, Oia, or whatever town you’re staying in. (The island is small and all towns are less than 40 minutes from the airport or ferry port.)

How to Get to Santorini from Crete

Step 1 : There are usually no direct flights from Crete to Santorini. If you still want to fly search for flights via Athens on Kayak.com . Step 2 : Book tickets on FerryHopper.com . Step 3 : Arrive at Heraklion ferry port 45 minutes in advance to pick up tickets from ticket kiosk (located directly beside departing ferries). Step 4 : When you arrive at the Santorini ferry port take a short bus ride to Fira (then switch buses if you’re going somewhere other than Fira) or taxi ride to Fira, Oia, or whatever town you’re staying in. (The island is small and all towns are less than 40 minutes from the airport or ferry port.)

How to Get to Santorini from Rhodes

Step 1 : There are usually no direct flights from Rhodes to Santorini. If you still want to fly search for flights via Athens on Kayak.com . Step 2 : Book tickets on a Blue Star ferry (usually the only ferry between Rhodes and Santorini). Step 3 : Arrive at Rhodes Town ferry port 45 minutes in advance to pick up tickets from ticket kiosk (located near departing ferries). Step 4 : When you arrive at the Santorini ferry port take a short bus ride to Fira (then switch buses if you’re going somewhere other than Fira) or taxi ride to Fira, Oia, or whatever town you’re staying in. (The island is small and all towns are less than 40 minutes from the airport or ferry port.)

How to Get to Santorini from Mykonos

Step 1 : There are usually no direct flights from Mykonos to Santorini. If you still want to fly search for flights via Athens on Kayak.com . Step 2 : Book ferry tickets on FerryHopper.com . Step 3 : Pickup tickets at designated travel agent in Mykonos Town (different for each ferry company). Step 4 : Be sure you know which ferry port your ferry departs from. Most ferries depart from the new ferry port (a 10 minute bus ride from Mykonos Town) but some smaller catamarans depart from the Mykonos Town ferry port (walking distance from town). Step 5 : Arrive at appropriate ferry port 30 minutes in advance. Step 6 : When you arrive at the Santorini ferry port take a short bus ride to Fira (then switch buses if you’re going somewhere other than Fira) or taxi ride to Fira, Oia, or whatever town you’re staying in. (The island is small and all towns are less than 40 minutes from the airport or ferry port.)

How to Get to Santorini from The US and Canada

Step 1 : Search for direct flights to Athens on Kayak.com . Usually, Toronto and New York have direct flights to Athens, other cities will need to fly via Toronto, New York, London, Paris, Amsterdam, or Frankfurt. Step 2 : Search for flights from Athens (or a hub city in western Europe) to Santorini. There are no direct flights from North America to Santorini. Step 3 : If you want to spend time in Athens fly to Athens, then ferry to Santorini . Step 4 : When you arrive in Santorini take a short bus or taxi ride to Fira, Oia, or whatever town you’re staying in. (The island is small and all towns are less than 40 minutes from the airport or ferry port.)

What’s the best way to get to Santorini?

Flying to Santorini is the quickest and easiest way. You can fly to Santorini from Athens or directly from cities in western Europe such as London, Manchester, Paris, Amsterdam, Rome, Naples, or Venice. . But there are no direct flights to Santorini from other Greek islands – though this changes from year to year and some summers there will be flights from Mykonos, Rhodes, or Heraklion (Crete) to Santorini. If you’re already in the center of Athens it can be easier to take a ferry or high-speed catamaran from Piraeus (the Athens port) than to deal with getting to the airport and through security. But flying would still be a few hours faster. Arriving by ferry in Santorini is a great experience. The cliffs loom over your boat and it’s a really awesome first impression of the island. (Less so if you arrive by a high-speed ferry as you’re trapped inside, behind sea-sprayed windows.) On the Blue Star ferry you can wander the decks and you’ll have a great view of the volcano and caldera. The Blue Star ferry from Athens to Santorini runs 365 days a year. There are also high speed ferries and catamarans to Santorini, most often on Hellenic Seaways , Minoan Lines , and Sea Jets ferries. These ferries do not run in the off-season and in the shoulder season, they can be smaller catamarans that can have a very bumpy ride. In summer they are usually larger ferries. But if you’re very concerned about seasickness then take the Blue Star. There are cabins available on the Blue Star ferry to Santorini. But since the most popular ferry leaves from Athens early in the morning it’s silly to spend the time in a cabin when you could be walking the decks and enjoying the view of passing islands. A 2nd class or “deck” ticket is the cheapest ticket. For an extra few euros, you can reserve an airplane-style seat which is what I recommend doing. A good compromise between flying and ferry is to take the ferry to Santorini and then fly back. It does take some planning to find the right tickets but the perfect route is to fly to Athens, ferry to Santorini (perhaps stopping at a few islands along the way), then flying from Santorini back to Athens – or fly directly from Athens to Western Europe as you will have already been to Athens and don’t need to visit again. If you’re island hopping Santorini has good connections with most of the other popular islands like Crete, Mykonos, Naxos, and Paros. Rhodes is more difficult to get to from Santorini (and a longer ferry ride) but still doable. There are no direct ferries or flights from Santorini to Istanbul. If you want to travel from Santorini to Istanbul the quickest and easiest way is to fly to Athens and then fly to Istanbul. If you want to take the ferry from Santorini to Turkey the easiest route is to ferry to Rhodes (usually an overnight ferry when a cabin would be recommended) and then a short 90-minute ferry to Marmaris on the Turkish coast. Ferries between Santorini and Rhodes run 2 or 3 times per week and take 7 to 15 hours.

How do I get from the Santorini airport to Fira, Oia, and the rest of the island?

Rental Car – If you’re planning to rent a car in Santorini it’s best to pick up your car at the Santorini airport on arrival and then save yourself the cost of transportation to your hotel. But, if you’re arriving at night I wouldn’t recommend dealing with finding your hotel (and parking) in the dark. Just taxi to your hotel then get your rental car the next day. Private Transfer – The easiest and quickest way to get into Fira and to the rest of the island is by pre-booked private transfer. Welcome Pickups is a convenient and reliable service, with rates that are similar to a taxi. If you have pre-booked with Welcome Pickups, there’s no need to worry about having cash to pay fare, and your driver will be waiting for you at the airport, holding a sign with your name on it. Taxi – Taxi is also an easy way to get from the airport to Santorini’s main towns, but there is often a long queue. There will always be taxis available at the airport though it can involve a wait (especially if 2 flights arrive at the same time). It costs about 20 euros to Fira and Kamari, and 30 to 35 euros to go to the rest of the island. Taxi and transfer information . Taxi phone number: 22860-22555. Bus – In high season (roughly June to September) buses run every hour between Fira and the airport. Most of these buses are running the Fira to Monolithos route and make a stop at the airport – although there might be a few additional buses each day that do only the Fira to airport run. There are fewer buses on the weekend and also fewer buses during the low season. It takes about 15 minutes to get from the airport to Fira by bus and costs about 2 euros. Plan to have small change available so that you don’t need to ask for change from a 50 euro note. If you want to go anywhere else other than Fira (or Monolithos) you’ll need to change buses in Fira (which is easy enough, but time consuming). Hotel Pickup – If your hotel offers free pickup and dropoff, be sure to take advantage. Most do charge but as long as it’s close to the taxi rate it’s a good choice.

How do I get to and from the ferry port in Santorini?

All ferries arrive at Athinios port. Getting from the port to any town is easy and shouldn’t cause any anxiety. You can do absolutely no pre-arranging of pickup details and you’ll get to your hotel just fine. (It’s more important to pre-arrange transportation to the port then from the port.) Bus – There will always be a bus waiting as your ferry arrives at the port no matter what time of day or night. If you’re staying in a town other than Fira you’ll need to get to Fira first and then switch buses there. The cost form the port to Fira is about 2 euros. The bus from the port to Fira takes about 20 minutes and drops you at the bus station in the middle of Fira. The bus, like all buses on Santorini, is air conditioned and has plenty of room for luggage. A bus leaves from Fira to the ferry port about 1 hour before every ferry departure and arrival (a schedule of bus departures from Fira is posted 1 or 2 days before and is based on the arriving ferries). Taxi – There will usually be taxis waiting as ferries arrive but there may be a wait to secure one. If it’s late at night you might want to arrange pickup in advance. It costs about 15 euros from the ferry port to Fira, 25 euros from the ferry port to Oia, and somewhere in-between to go anywhere else on the island. A taxi ride from the port to Fira takes about 15 minutes. Taxis going to the port can be hard to find. When people miss the bus to the port (which leaves about 1 hour before each ferry arrival) then the rush to grab a taxi begins. Taxi phone number: 22860-22555. Private Transfer – The easiest and quickest way to get into Fira and to the rest of the island is by pre-booked private transfer. Welcome Pickups is a convenient and reliable service, with rates that are similar to a taxi. If you have pre-booked with Welcome Pickups, there’s no need to worry about having cash to pay fare, and your driver will be waiting for you at the airport, holding a sign with your name on it. Hotel Transfer – Many hotels provide transportation from the port to their hotel. For some it’s free, for others it’s charged at a rate similar to a taxi or a bit more. Don’t bother pre-arranging pickup months in advance (when you book your hotel). Send an email to your hotel a few days before so the pickup details are fresh in their minds. Rental Car – If you’re planning to rent a car in Santorini don’t pickup from the ferry port. Take a bus, taxi, or hotel transfer and then pickup your rental car in Fira or Oia. Cruise Ships – If you’re arriving on a Santorini cruise you’ll be tendered in a small boat from the ship to the Skalafira port directly below Fira. From there you can either climb the steps (a lot of them) or take a cable car (which will probably involve waiting some time in a line). There are also donkey rides up the path you walk but many find their use offensive so be prepared for some dirty looks by people who don’t think donkeys should be used (abused) in this manner.
The Best Hotels on Santorini Maps of Santorini The Best Tours and Things to Do in Santorini The Best Hotels on Mykonos The Best Hotels on Crete The Best Luxury Hotels in Athens

About Santorini Dave

Santorini Dave Author Bio.

Hi. Do you have any tips for flying from London to Athens, staying for a week then to Santorini for a week then return to London? Thanks!

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There are many flights between both London and Athens, and London and Santorini. So, be sure to fly into one and out of the other. That is, don’t fly into Athens, ferry to and from Santorini, and then fly back from Athens. It’s a waste of time and money.

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We are looking to go to Greece the last week in October. Do flights run all year round? I’m trying to find flights from Athens to Santorini and nothing is coming up. We thought we would also go to Mykonos as well.

Yes, there are many daily flights from Athens to Santorini in October. Then ferry to Mykonos. From Mykonos, you can fly or ferry to Athens.

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Hi Dave, we are flying from Rome to Santorini and debating taking the 12am direct flight on vueling. It arrives around 3am. This seams like a good idea but the airline has terrible reviews and I wasn’t sure if the airport would’ve empty at that time. The other option is through Athens with a 4 hour layover, arriving around 7am. Seems like a waste of time but more reliable airline. Do you have any advice related to these two options? Thanks!

If it was me I would fly direct and just get there. I’ve flown Vueling several times and they’re fine. Of course, there are never any guarantees. Also, I would think that flying via Athens and thus having two flights, two airlines, two places it can go wrong instead of one, would double the chance of a canceled or late flight, regardless of the airline.

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I am finding a hard time booking a flight in early July to Santorini from Toronto! What is the best way?

You have a lot of choice for cities to fly through but the best bets are: London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Rome, and Athens. From there you’ll take a short flight from one of the smaller European airlines. Kayak.com is good for finding all the possible routes.

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Hi Dave, My daughter and I are flying from NYC (via Zurich with 24-hour layover) to Santorini. We arrive in Santorini at 10am, and have a ferry to Naxos at 330pm. I bought ferry tickets on Blue Star and the website said I could either pick up the ferry tickets in Fira town or at the ferry office on the port. I also heard to leave an hour early to pick up tickets at the ferry office port. Should we go straight to the ferry/port area or hang out in Fira since we have so much time? Where would you pick up the tickets? And what transportation method would you use for this? Thanks so much!

You should take the bus from the airport to Fira. Then check the bus schedule for the ferry port before leaving the bus station. The bus for the port is based on the ferry schedule and there should be one leaving for the port about an hour before the Blue Star leaves. Then go to Pelican Travel on the main street to collect your tickets. You should have this all done by noon and then will have 2.5 hours to wander around Fira and get some lunch.

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I would like to get from Santorini to southern Turkey Kusadasi or thereabouts cheaply on September 28th can you offer any advice, please.

The cheapest way is to ferry to Kos, then ferry to Bodrum, then bus to Kusadasi. But the Santorini to Kos ferry does not run every day and even with a perfect set of connections you are looking at two days of travel from Santorini to Kusadasi. To do it in one day you would need to fly from Santorini to Athens, then fly to Istanbul, then fly to Kusadasi (though there might be direct flights from Athens to Kusadasi or a nearby airport – like Izmir).

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Hi Dave, thank for such an awesome and informative blog. Anyway, I will be travelling with my wife to Santorini in the end of June, but the flight will arrive in Santorini around 23:00. Is there any public transportation to Perissa at those time? Or should I use a taxi or shuttle?

Even through the day there is no direct bus from the airport to Perissa. You’d need to bus to Fira first, then another bus to Perissa. Can’t say for sure but that probably won’t workout for an 11pm arrival – probably too late. So yes, taxi is your best option.

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Hi Dave. Love this blog….I’ve spent hours here planning my honeymoon!! If traveling from the US via Heathrow to Athens, how much time is needed before you board a flight to Santorini? We will have carry on luggage if that matters. Thank you!!

Of course, there are no guarantees, but you’ll need at least an hour. If it were me I’d be uncomfortable booking with anything less than 90 minutes between flights (and even that could be easily missed with a late arriving flight).

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Hi Dave, Where i can buy a flight ticket from Athens to Santorini? Can you recommend reliable site? Thanks

Search for Santorini flights on Kayak.com but buy on the airline website (e.g. Aegean).

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Hi Dave, love this super helpful blog, was wondering if you had any advice on this, which I haven’t heard anything about elsewhere; When arriving at the airport, if booking a transfer, how soon after landing from Athens can we expect to be out of the airport after going through the process of baggage claim potential passport control? Partially wondering about this also because if I were to book a table for a restaurant I would need to know an estimate of when we would actually have arrived in Imerovigli (where our hotel is and where I suppose we’ll have our first dinner). Sissel

Flying from Athens means you won’t have any passport control. Just need to get your bags. Airport is small. You could be out to the taxi in 10 or 15 minutes from landing. Then to Fira in 15 minutes and to Oia in 30 (though sometimes you will have to wait for a taxi). Your plane could be late too. I’d leave a good 90 minutes after your scheduled landing time to make a reservation.

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Love your tips! I am doing a solo trip from end of August to September so about 4 weeks in total. Starting in Athens, heading to Paros (spending just over a week). I have to end my trip in Crete in order to fly to Rome but am curious, what’s the best order to go in after Paros if Crete is my final destination and I want to hit Santorini and Mykonos?

Also is it possible to wait to book ferry trips until I’m in Paros or should I try and book ahead of time?

Thank you! Elizabeth

After Paros, go to Mykonos then Santorini, then Crete. You should be fine to book Paros onwards ferries after arrival as long as you book a few days in advance. The Mykonos to Santorini is the most likely to sell out. Then the Santorini to Crete. (But even those are unlikely to sell out in September.)

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Hi, I am thinking about going to Santorini end of April next year, struggling to find flights, do you know what airlines fly at that time of year from the U.K? Also is it generally sunny last week in April or is rain likely? Lorna

British Airways and EasyJet have the most direct flights from London to Santorini (including April). BA typically flies from Heathrow. EasyJet from Gatwick. They might not have their full schedule out this far in advance so keep checking – should be out by September at the latest.

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Hello, Dave! My companion and I are traveling to Greece this summer. We will be arriving in Athens on 1 Aug, then flying to Santorini on 5 Aug. My question is about flights. I went through Kayak to book a flight from Athens to Santorini. After the add ons to the flight, it came out to be around $296.00 USD! That seemed a bit high to me. I did purchase travel insurance, so I am hoping to find some alternate travel arrangements. Do you have any suggestions, or is this flight’s price normal? Thank you. Maria

Flights are the most expensive in August so yes, that sounds about right. Ferry rates (for travel in August) will be much cheaper than flying.

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Hi Santorini Dave, We are hoping to go from Rhodes to Santorini on an overnight ferry on thurs September 21st, but we saw that the ferry only runs a few times a week and I’m not sure on what days and times since the ferry schedules have not been released yet. We are also open to going by high speed ferry we just don’t want to go on a slow one unless its overnight since I read that it can take 14hrs. We are nervous to book nonrefundable hotels on either side in Rhodes and Santorini without knowing we can get there when we were hoping to. Any advice? Do you think there are usually ferries on thursdays that time of year? Do you know how far in advance the ferry schedules are posted? Thank you so much for your guidance and your great site! Asia Thorpe

There will likely be an overnight ferry in September from Rhodes to Ferry. 50/50 at best whether it will fall on the day you need. There are many flights from Rhodes to Athens and Athens to Santorini so you could wait to see what the ferry schedule looks like then book flights if it doesn’t work out. (I’d probably just book the flights now so you get a quick efficient connection in Athens thus making the journey fast and painless.)

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Hello, we are flying into Athens on the morning on June 26 via Air Canada. I plan to purchase plane tickets to get to Santorini. How much time would you say is needed between getting off the plane in Athens to then catch your flight to Santorini. Also, what airlines do you recommend using to get to Santorini (Aegean Airlines ?) I am hoping to pay about $120.00 or so round trip to get back and forth – would you agree this is a reasonable rate I should be able to find. Thank You Michele Gottorff

I would be comfortable with a stopover of longer than 2.5 hours in Athens. There are no guarantees, of course, but anything over that and you should be fine. If you book early enough then you should be able to find a Santorini flight for less than $120.

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Carpe Diem OUR Way Travel

Best Time to Go to Santorini Greece: Comparing the Seasons

Posted on Published: 2022-01-19  - Last updated: 2022-05-30

One of the most beautiful Greek Islands, Santorini is a popular summer vacation destination. Depending on what your interests are and what you are looking to enjoy, the best time to go to Santorini is between May and October. If you are looking to save cost, it is better to travel to Santorini during the low season. Hotels, flights and car rentals are cheaper and do not require booking months ahead. When you are planning your 2 days in Santorini, or maybe you even have more time, take these seasonal recommendations into account.

No matter what time of the year you choose to visit, Santorini has a lot to offer. From its beautiful hiking trails, crystal clear waters, breathtaking sunsets, captivating nightlife and rich unique cuisine; there is something special for everyone.

Greece is one of the top destinations to visit right now. Some factors to consider when deciding the best time to visit Santorini are the weather, the crowd and the number of activities available. Here’s what to expect when visiting Santorini.

best time to visit santorini greece

Why Spring is the Best time to Visit Santorini

Spring in Santorini marks the arrival of the first cruise ships. The weather is great and prices are generally still cheap. If you are planning to visit in May, you might want to check out the popular day tours around the Island. Some top day tours include the Santorini Volcano Tour, the Santorini Sunset Cruise, Helicopter Tour and the Caldera Tour.

Another upside to visiting Santorini in springtime is the convenience. It is easier to move around and transportation around the island is cheap. If you love taking long walks or go hiking, you would love visiting Santorini around this time. The grassy hills filled with breathtaking blooms are a feature you can only enjoy during spring.

It is also a wonderful time to enjoy the island’s food produce. Santorini is well known for its unique fruits and spices. Since spring heralds the harvest of fresh fruits and vegetables, it is the perfect time to indulge. Its vast seafood options and unique wine collections make this beautiful island the dream of all food lovers.

Spring is also the perfect time for honeymooners. With the summer crowds yet to troop in, couples can enjoy relative privacy while lounging on the balcony or the beach. You will also be able to take beautiful pictures and make wonderful memories together without interference from random strangers.

Spring is Santorini is still too cold for swimming so unless you stay in a hotel that offers heated pools, there will be no swimming.

Why Fall is the Best Time to go to Santorini

With the warm weather, reduced summer crowds and beautiful sunsets, Fall seems to be the best time of the year to visit Santorini. After the dispersal of the July and August crowds, it is a wonderful time to enjoy quiet walks along the streets of Santorini, swim in the warm waters and sunbathe on the glorious beaches.

With the weather being so great, you can enjoy outdoor dining, watch the glorious sunset from Oia Castle without the clamoring from summer crowds, go sightseeing on the red beach, go on a hike through the ancient city of Thira or climb the highest point at Thirassia and be rewarded by a panoramic view of Santorini and its environments.

If you are an adrenaline junkie, Fall is definitely the best time to experience the eclectic mountain bike hike. It is adventurous and best enjoyed in the cool Fall weather. You can also go on a wine tasting tour where you will learn a great deal about wine production, the history of wine in Santorini and of course, try different types of wines.

If you are interested in visiting any of the other Greek Islands, then Fall is the best time to do so.

Why Summer is the best time to go to Santorini

The summer months are Santorini’s peak season. This means that thousands of tourists troop onto the beautiful blue and white Greek island to experience its purity and glorious beauty. If you are not a fan of large crowds, this is not the best time to travel to Santorini.

This also means that the island bubbles with activity. You are sure to enjoy the vivid Santorini nightlife, complete with its beach parties and night clubs. During the day, the weather is very hot and sunny so make sure to pack your beachwear and spend some time sunbathing and swimming.

Tons of cruise ships come to the island during the summer months as well. Feel free to join the cruise crowd on any of the numerous island tours. You can explore the Santorini cuisine while on a food tour or learn about the Santorini’s evergreen wine production on a vineyard tour.

Although the weather might be too hot for a hike, you can join a tour group or hire a local guide to take you through other notable sights on and around the island. 

Be sure to book your flights and accommodations at least 3 months ahead. If you’re looking to stay at a luxury hotel, you will have to book up to 6 months ahead.

Why visit Santorini in the Winter

Santorini and the other Greek Islands are typical summer destinations. However, the rustic appeal of Santorini in winter, reduced cost of hotels and flights and lack of crowds has made it become an in-demand winter holiday destination. 

Apart from hotel prices being relatively cheaper, they are also readily available. You do not have to worry about booking months ahead. Since most bars and restaurants will be closed, it is best to stay in Fira during the winter months. Being the capital of Santorini, businesses in Fira stay open all year long. It is important to note that nightclubs stay closed from November to March so if you’re a night owl looking to experience nightlife in Santorini, this might not be the best time to go to Santorini.

Some of the activities you can enjoy during winter in Santorini are hiking between Fira and Oia, visiting the medieval town of Skaros, touring the Akrotiri ruins, exploring the elevated town of Imerovigli, going on a wine tour and exploring the island’s exotic cuisine.

Remember to pack clothes fit for the cold weather and expect some light showers from time to time.

Santorini Greece Pool

More Santorini Travel Resources

Start with these funny Greek puns to get you in the mood!

How to Get to Santorini

Ferries stop in Santorini every day bringing passengers and goods to the port. Blue Star Ferries has year round service and SeaJets and high speed ferry service offers seasonal options. In the summer season there will be dozens of ferries coming in and our of Santorini each day, some from Athens and some from neighboring Islands. But in the winter, expect a very reduced schedule.

You can book ferry tickets in advance for peace of mind, but this is only essential in very peak periods or if you have an inflexible schedule.

Note that when using the ferries, they usually depart from their first port on time (unless they have a mechanical problem etc) but they can become late as their day progresses. Often they have long voyages and they can encounter rough seas or port delays.

We were personally delayed 4 hours on one of our routes, so ensure you do not have plans set for your arrival in case of any ferry delays.

There are plenty of nonstop flights to Santorini (Thira) International Airport (Airport Code JTR) from European cities and domestically in Greece from Athens.

Flying from Athens to Santorini on Ryan Air can be incredibly cheap! Ryan Air is a ULCC so ensure you read all o the fine print from checking bags to choosing seats so there are no surprises when you get to the airport counter.

How to Get from Santorini Airport to Fira or Oia

One of the top mistakes to avoid when planning a trip to Santorini is to not arrange your transport to your hotel in advance.

If you are looking to take a taxi from the Santorini Airport to Fira or Oia expect to pay around 35 Euros

The bus is the cheapest option to get to Fira and it costs EUR 1.70

The downside to the bus is that it is infrequent. 

If you need to go to Oia you will have to transfer at the Fira station to the Oia bus. If you are staying in Fira the bus stops at the central bus station. Expect to be walking UPHILL from there to your accommodation. Something that could be 500m on Google Maps might feel a lot farther when you are pulling a suitcase up a busy street.

By Hotel Transfer

Many hotels will offer a hotel transfer service. Check with our hotel when you book. If you have not arranged a transfer with your hotel, you can arrange a Private Transfer Online.

How to Get Around in Santorini: Rental Cars, ATV’s, Busses

It is very popular for visitors to Santorini to rent cars, scooters or ATVs. You will find dealerships all over, with a large concentration of them in Fira. You can rent a car from the airport or seaport but most scooters and ATV’s are rented in town.

Rental Cars

I suggest booking in advance as it was extremely expensive to rent a car from the airport on arrival. You can get information on rental cars here

ATV’s and Scooters

ATV’s and scooters are super popular and come with the risks inherent to them: unfamiliar roads, lots of traffic, inexperienced drivers etc. These are one of the biggest things you need to worry about when it comes to Santorini safety. They are a popular choice in the hot summer months, but not as much in the chilly winter air. 

Busses and Taxis

There are some taxis on the island. They get stuck in the horrible traffic that you will find on the island. We personally did not use them. When we looked at taking a taxi from the airport to our hotel in Fira, they quoted us EUR35 and it is max a 15 minute drive. There is no UBER or Lyft in Santorini so if you do not want to drive nor wait for a bus, taxi is your other option.

A bus trip from the Airport to Fira is EUR1.70 and takes about 45 mins as the bus winds around and stops a few times before Fira. As I mentioned above, they are infrequent. That is the downside to busses in Santorini. And in the summer with the island full of backpacker budget travelers, it can be chaotic!

You can check the timetable here . It also lists the prices of each ride, around EUR2.00

The busses are coach style busses with room for luggage in my experience.

GREECE TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR 2022

There are a few other things to think about when it comes to travel. The first thing is travel insurance. Whether it is an emergency room visit for something as simple as strep throat, or an emergency appendix surgery, or an unfortunate moped incident things do go wrong when people travel every day.

I highly suggest travel insurance and a good policy. I personally never travel without it, and I even checked into my policy about care for my children if I am ever in an accident or hospitalized. There are just too many things to think about.

You can find out more information and buy your travel insurance here.

Looking for the perfect city tour, day tour, bus tour, & skip-the-line tickets? Start with Get Your Guide and Viator Tours. They offer several tours all over Greece and the Greek Islands.

Find the best hotel selection on booking.com or hostelworld.com

Want a local authentic meal? Browse eatwith.com to find food tours, cooking classes and unique local foodie experiences!

Find information and cruise reviews on cruisecritic.com

Ensure you have proper insurance coverage, consider World Nomads.

Need to travel light? You can safely store your luggage with Radical Storage.

Capture those memories! Book a romantic or family photoshoot while on holiday! Click Here to find a local photographer. Use code LINDSAY to save $25 off your first photoshoot!

Further Reading on Greece

If you are planning on island hopping, check out my 2 days in Santorini itinerary . There are so many places to explore on this beautiful island, but go for the views, and then get hopping! there is so much more to explore in Greece! This is one of my most popular posts and many people have found it helpful when planning their Santorini trips!

Explore information on the best time to visit Santorini to learn about the busy season, the weather, and what to expect at any time of the year!

Also, there are some safety issues to note in Santorini. This post on “Is Santorini Safe” will help you out!

I highly recommend visiting Meteora. Here is our guide on how to get from Athens to Meteora and what to expect.

best time to go to Santorini

Lindsay Nieminen hails from Vancouver, Canada and shares her love of travel on this website. She is passionate about showing others that they should not put off traveling the world just because they have young children or are single parents. She aims to encourage them to seek out adventure, whether it is at home or abroad by providing information on how just about everywhere can be a destination to explore as a family.

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Best Time to Visit Santorini, Greece

Best Time to Visit Santorini, Greece

Whether you are traveling to Santorini for business or pleasure, there are certain things to know about traveling to the island. One of the most important things is the best time to visit. This will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Greece.

Best Time to Go to Santorini

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Santorini is the perfect destination for you. This Greek island is full of activities. From beaches to nightlife, there is something for everyone. In addition, it’s also one of the cheapest places to travel to.

While the island is crowded during the summer, there are times when it is more manageable. The shoulder seasons in late spring and early fall are the perfect time to visit. While the beaches and nightlife aren’t as busy as during the summer, you will still be able to enjoy your Santorini vacation.

Santorini is a popular destination for honeymooners, and there are plenty of romantic hotels and resorts to choose from. You can also take a Santorini private tour to see the island at a more relaxed pace.

In early April, the weather can be cool and windy. However, the sea will still be warm enough for you to enjoy a swim. During this time, you may find that the ocean isn’t as warm as it is in the summer, which can make swimming more challenging.

The best time to visit Santorini is when the weather is warm and sunny. If you don’t mind swimming, then you can visit Santorini any time during the year. The weather is also perfect for hiking, which is one of the best things to do in Greece .

Known for its near perfect weather, Santorini is one of the best places to visit in Greece. However, the ideal time to visit depends on your specific needs. You may prefer to visit during the shoulder season, when the weather is nice, but the crowds are low. Alternatively, you may prefer to avoid the crowds altogether.

Santorini Greece’s peak season begins in late June and ends in early September. This is when the prices are highest and the crowds are at their peak. It is not recommended to visit Santorini during this time.

In July and August, temperatures are high and water is warm. This is a good time to enjoy the beach. However, the water is not warm enough to swim.

If you prefer to stay out of the crowds, you may want to visit Santorini in the fall. This is when the island hosts several cultural events. Some of the best events include the Megaron Gyzi Festival, the Internationa Music Festival, and the Santorini Jazz Festival. All of these events are free and open to the public.

Santorini’s off-season runs from November to March. The weather is often nice, but it is not ideal for visiting the wineries. However, it is still a good time to visit the island, as you may be able to save money.

There are also many private tours available that can take you to the settlements on the island. These are a great way to experience the traditional side of Santorini.

Visiting Greece in the autumn can be very enjoyable. It is a time when there are less crowds and there are still plenty of sunshine. This is also a great time to enjoy the sea. If you are looking for the best Greek Islands, this is the season to visit.

The weather is still warm and sunny, but the water temperatures are more comfortable. The islands are less crowded and the rates for hotels are less expensive. This is also the time of year when grapes are ready to be picked.

Santorini is known for its wine production. This is an ancient tradition. Some of the best wine in the world is produced here. The grapes ferment for a few weeks before they are ready to be picked.

Another great thing about visiting Greece in the autumn is that you can still enjoy the sun and sea. During this time, the islands receive less rain, which is important for tourists. The nights are cooler and the weather is less windy. This is also the best time of year to visit the Meteora Monasteries.

There are many activities to do in Santorini. You can take a boat trip to the volcano, visit the local settlements, or walk around the caldera. It is also a great time to experience Santorini’s nightlife.

The best time of year to visit Santorini is in the autumn. The island is not as busy as during the summer. This is also the time of year when the water temperatures are warm.

Getting around Santorini in the winter is a little more difficult, but it can still be done. A car rental is a great option. This gives you more freedom, and you can easily make your way between sites.

During winter, you will see less tourists. This means less crowds, and fewer parking issues. However, the best time to visit Santorini is during the spring or fall, when the weather is nice and you will have less people to disturb your experience.

While the weather is not ideal in Santorini, there is still a lot to see and do. A visit to the Caldera hiking trail is a must. This trail spans from the town of Fira to the village of Oia. It is a great way to see some of the island’s most beautiful landscapes.

The island of Santorini is one of the best places to see in Greece. Its unique volcanic landscape is stunning. The island is also home to several archaeological sites. The island has a wide variety of hotels, resorts, and restaurants. It is also home to a few hot mineral springs.

Some of the best restaurants are in the Karterados area. This area is an extension of Fira, and features local greek food restaurants and coffee shops.

You may also want to visit the Timiou Stavro church, which has distinctive blue domes. It is also worth visiting the Akrotiri Lighthouse.

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SANTORINI TOURS & ACTIVITIES

When is the Best Time to Visit Santorini? – Month by Month Guide

Visiting santorini in january.

Visiting Santorini Greece in January is the ideal time to explore archaeological heritage. The island has some of the finest art galleries in Greece. If you’re interested in wine, you’ll love visiting one of the island’s prestigious wineries.

You can rent a car from the airport and travel easily between sites. You can also take advantage of the low season to book hotels that are cheaper. You should book early to avoid being overpriced.

If you’re planning a winter holiday , be sure to pack a warm jacket and waterproof clothing. The weather will be rainy or overcast, but you can still enjoy some sunny days. If you want to take a hike, the Fira to Oia hike is popular. It’s a six-mile trek that offers breathtaking views. It’s perfect for all levels of hiking.

Another advantage of traveling in January is that you can visit Santorini without having to deal with the typical tourist crowd. You’ll still find plenty to see and do, but you won’t have the typical rush that occurs in the summer.

Visiting Santorini in February

Visiting Santorini Greece in February is different from visiting the island in the summer. In the winter, you can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the island. This island is a perfect spot for romantic backdrops and quiet walks. You can also have great photos without crowds. The weather is also not as hot as the peak summer months.

During the winter, many hotels and restaurants close. You will need to make reservations months in advance, but this will help you get a better deal. You can find upscale rooms for a low price, or hot tub rooms for a budget.

Santorini’s principal towns are Fira and Oia. These towns are located above the caldera, overlooking the sea. They also offer views of the nearby small islands. You can find a variety of restaurants, coffee shops and local greek food in these areas.

The beaches of Santorini are made up of black lava pebbles. However, the water is not warm enough for swimming. You can find a number of activities, such as sailing tours, boat tours, and hiking.

Visiting Santorini in March

Visiting Santorini Greece in March is a great way to get a taste of the Mediterranean climate without dealing with the high season crowds. This is also the best time to book hotel rooms for less than peak season prices.

Santorini is a great place for a romantic getaway. It is home to some of the best beaches in the world, and offers visitors the chance to explore ancient sites and wineries. Getting around the island can be tricky in the summer, so renting a car makes it easy to explore on your own.

It may not be warm enough to swim in the sea during March, but the warm weather makes it a great place for hiking and sightseeing. Visitors can also find good deals on hotels and flights .

The most important thing to remember when visiting Santorini in March is to pack warm clothing. It can be cold at night, but the sun will warm you up in no time.

The sun will be shining at least half the time in March, which makes it a good time to enjoy the beach. However, be careful not to get caught in the rain.

Visiting Santorini in April

Visiting Santorini Greece in April is a great time to get away from the summer crowds. Although the weather is still hot, it is not as busy as in the summer months. The hotels are still offering good deals and prices are slightly lower than in the summer months. The vineyards are also open and you can do wine tastings.

Santorini is known for its romantic sunsets. The island is also popular for its wine industry. Most wineries are open year-round. Santorini wines are renowned for their crisp dry whites. The wineries offer food tastings as well.

The high season on Santorini is from late June to early September. During this time, the island’s hotels are fully operational. The restaurants are also open. The most popular activity is walking the caldera edge. You can also enjoy a sunset cruise. You can also try your hand at cliff jumping or swimming.

The main towns on Santorini overlook the sea. You can also see some historical ruins. There are also some nice villages to explore.

Visiting Santorini in May

Visiting Santorini Greece in May is a great time to explore this beautiful island. The weather is still perfect and the sun is still out during the day. However, it is not quite as warm as the peak summer months. This is when the island is most popular and most tourists arrive.

It’s also a good time to visit Santorini because the airfare is cheaper. However, it’s still very crowded. If you want to be able to get a good deal on your hotel, it’s best to book as early as possible. You might also want to consider visiting during the shoulder season, which is from late April through early June.

Santorini is a great place to visit any time of the year, but it is particularly popular during the summer months. This is when the ferry service is at its thickest, and the beaches are busy with tourists.

The summer season is also when the island is at its busiest, but the crowds are less pronounced. During the beginning of the season, it’s a great time to go on a donkey ride, ride a bike, and take a walk through the towns. It’s also a great time to enjoy the sunset.

Visiting Santorini in June

Visiting Santorini Greece in June offers a great opportunity to experience the famous caldera sunsets. This quaint island is also home to beautiful villages and blue-domed churches. It is a perfect destination for an R&R or adventure vacation.

Aegean sea temperatures stay warm through the summer months, making Santorini Greece a pleasant place to visit. You can also take advantage of a variety of boat tours to explore the island.

During summer, Oia, the main town on Santorini, is a very busy place. The nightlife is lively and people gather to watch the sunset. The weather is warm enough for swimming. However, if you’re planning to enjoy Santorini’s pristine beaches, you might want to consider visiting during the fall or winter.

If you’re planning a trip to Santorini, you might want to consider booking your accommodations early. This can help you avoid overpriced accommodations. You can also get better deals by booking early.

If you’re traveling on a budget , you can save money by visiting during the off season. Hotels are cheaper, and the price of food is lower. In addition, fewer tourists are on the island during the off season.

Visiting Santorini in July

Visiting Santorini Greece in July is a great idea, as the island boasts some of the best swimming weather around. However, you have to keep in mind that the island is packed with tourists during this time, which can make it hard to find quiet contemplation. There are also some downsides to visiting in July, which are listed below.

You should also avoid visiting in April and May. These are the months when the Greek national holiday, Greek Easter, is held. This is a huge event, so there are a lot of visitors. If you are planning to visit in these months, you should make sure you have booked your flights around the holiday.

Some tourist businesses also close down during this time. The beach front tavernas, for instance, will be closed. Also, most tourist attractions will close for the season. However, you can still enjoy the sights of Santorini by booking a trip in the off season.

Another advantage of traveling in the off season is that you can save money. Prices are cheaper, so booking in advance can help ensure that you get the best deal. You also have more flexibility on the island, as many businesses open up after the high season.

Visiting Santorini in August

Visiting Santorini Greece in August can be a great experience. You will get to see some of the most spectacular views in the area. The island has some of the best wine in the region. It is also a great destination for honeymooners.

If you want to visit Santorini Greece in August, you should be aware that the weather can be hot. There is a chance of rain and high temperatures. You may also experience T-shirt weather. You should pack warmer clothing for when the rain comes.

It is also a good idea to plan your trip around the weather. You may be able to avoid crowds and have a better experience. You can also find cheaper accommodations. This is especially true for travelers on a budget.

Santorini is a small island. The principal towns are Fira and Oia. Both towns are built above the caldera and overlook the sea. The island is popular for its rugged landscape and black lava pebble beaches.

In the summer, Santorini Greece is packed with holidaymakers. The streets are crowded, the beaches are packed, and the restaurants are packed. There are a lot of hotels and resorts. The island is also full of clubs and wineries.

Visiting Santorini in September

Visiting Santorini Greece in September is one of the best times to see the island. The weather is still warm by most standards. There are also a lot of festivals happening. A lot of restaurants are still open.

September is also the best month to visit Santorini if you want to see the island in all its colors. The grape harvest adds color to the scenery. The weather is also ideal for outdoor activities. The water is still warm for swimming. There are many boat tours to choose from.

In September, most hotels and businesses are open. The island is still largely crowded but it’s not as busy as in July and August. It’s also a great time to visit if you’re looking for a more relaxing holiday.

While September can be a little rainy, you can still have a lot of fun. The islands beaches are still warm for swimming. You can also try a sunset boat tour around the caldera.

Visiting Santorini in October

Visiting Santorini in October can be just as enjoyable as visiting the island in July or August. The weather is still warm by northern European standards. This means that Santorini is still a great place to swim. It is a great place to go for a beach vacation.

If you are thinking about going to Santorini in October, you should pack a light jacket and swimsuit. It can still rain, but not nearly as much as it does during the summer months.

During October, the island is less crowded. This means that you will be able to get into most of the beach without having to wait for a swim. You will also be able to find a lot of restaurants and bars that are open. It is also a good time to visit the island because you will be able to find good flight deals.

You will also be able to find ferries that are still running. In addition, the water in the Aegean is still warm.

Visiting Santorini in November

Visiting Santorini Greece in November is a perfect time for travelers who like to see the island in its off-season. It’s the ideal time to see the island’s beautiful scenery, and to enjoy its wineries, wine tasting, and views. It’s also a great time to find cheap flights .

The Santorini weather in November is cool. It is still warm enough for swimming, but it is not the ideal time to go to the island if you want to see the sun. The average temperature is 17oC.

There are also less tourists in Santorini Greece in November. This means that hotels and restaurants have lower prices. The island also has less rain. Its roads are less congested.

If you’re planning a trip to Santorini, consider visiting in early November. This is when the weather is still good, but it is not as busy as the summer. This is also a good time to explore the island on bike tours.

Some hotels and restaurants close in early November. Some of the more popular beaches on the island may be crowded during this time. There may also be a lot of rain.

Visiting Santorini in December

Visiting Santorini Greece in December is a different experience than visiting during summer. While there are still beautiful sights to see and some activities to take part in, the weather will be a bit different. In addition, the islands tourist attractions will be less crowded.

The most popular time to visit Santorini is during the summer months. This is the best time to experience the island’s beaches and other attractions. There is plenty of sunshine to enjoy, though some days may be cloudy.

The winter months on Santorini are less crowded, which can save you some money. However, you may find that some tourist attractions are closed for the winter. If you want to visit the island during this time, you should book your hotel well in advance. There are also some secluded resorts that close down during the off-season.

You will need to book your hotel at least two months in advance, though the best prices are available six to nine months ahead. You can also find cheaper flights to Greece during this time of year.

SANTORINI DEALS & DISCOUNTS

Best time to Go Hiking in Santorini

Located in Greece, Santorini is an island that attracts vast numbers of tourists each year. This island is home to several hiking trails that are perfect for exploring the island’s natural beauty. Whether you want to learn more about the island’s history or just relax, this island is perfect for all.

Santorini offers several hiking trails that are suited for all levels of ability. The Fira to Oia hike is one of the most popular. The trail passes through quaint villages and chapels, while offering breathtaking views of the Aegean. This 6-mile stretch is perfect for hiking enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Another hike that is worth a look is the Ancient Thera hike. The trail passes by the ancient cemetery of Sellada. The route also offers views of Perissa and Kamari. The hike is a moderately difficult trek.

A less strenuous hike is the stretch between Oia and Fira. This 10km stretch features paved footpath sections as well as a few dirt track sections. This hike offers a unique view of Santorini. This stretch of trail is also perfect for sightseeing and photography.

Another great hike on Santorini is the Firostefani to Imerovigli hike. This trail has a steep incline but is well worth the effort. The path weaves through historical villages before reaching Imerovigli. This hike is a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the island.

Cheapest time to visit Santorini

Whether you want to spend a few days relaxing on the beaches or taking in the sights, Santorini has plenty to offer. However, when is the cheapest time to visit? Choosing the right time to visit can make or break your holiday.

During the peak tourist season, Santorini is packed with holidaymakers from all over the world. While this is great for those looking for a relaxing vacation, it can also mean expensive prices. Booking your accommodation in advance will give you the chance to get a great deal.

The cheapest time to visit Santorini is in the winter months. The weather is still warm and sunny, but the crowds are lower. This also means that room rates are slightly lower.

During this time, you can also find great flight deals. However, the weather is not as warm as during the summer months. You’ll also have to make sure you pack warm clothing for the occasional rainstorm.

You’ll still get warm weather during the early part of September, although you may have to deal with light rain or strong winds. The temperatures are not as reliable as in October, though.

This is also the time to visit Santorini for the Feast of the Assumption, a Greek national holiday. Many people head to Santorini to attend the religious ceremonies. You’ll also find many outdoor venues packed with people having fun on balmy nights.

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Best Time to Visit Greece, Santorini: Seasons and Activities

With the beautiful blue Mediterranean Sea set against a volcano, Santorini is a beautiful and idyllic Greek island. This island, with its charming blue and white buildings, coffee, and local dishes from a quaint café, has plenty to offer. But with so much to offer, it can be challenging to know the best time to go to Greece, Santorini.

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

If you want to explore Santorini’s seaside treasure, with its brilliant blue water, red, white, or black beaches, and volcanic landscapes, it is best to get to know your months to visit.

 Quick Tip: Have a look at more of Europe’s popular islands for an unforgettable adventure.

Best Time to Travel to Santorini

The best time to visit Greece, Santorini is generally in late March.

As one of the most popular attractions in Greece , Santorini is a dream vacation location. When going on vacation, you want the best possible experience, balanced by picking a suitable month. The best time to go to Santorini is generally late March to early June, and early September to late October.

These periods of the year are the beginning and the end of the on-season, but they aren’t the peak season. This means they are the perfect times to enjoy sunny weather and experience adventures like ocean swims, snorkeling, scuba diving, and hiking.

Weather in Santorini, Greece

While the best time of year to visit Santorini is from September to October and March to June, finding the best month to visit Santorini depends on what you are looking for. Spring suits your taste if you want to explore, or winter, where the island is a little cooler and offers lower prices.

Each season and month in Santorini provides something. Here is a season-by-season guide to exploring which month is best to visit Santorini.

The best time to visit Greece, Santorini and its beautiful beaches is in summer.

Spring in Santorini – March to May

Springtime in March to May provides the perfect weather for all overland adventures on the island. At this time of year, the weather is getting warmer but does not get too hot, making it the perfect temperature for hiking and sightseeing. It is also the idealtime to go visit the two volcanic formations of Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni which lie inside the Santorini caldera.

Quick Tip: Take a Santorini Volcanic Islands Cruise on a Greek Caique boat and swim in the orange-tinted, mineral-enriched hot springs of Nea Kameni.

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

March in Santorini is the turn of the season when the weather goes from cold to a little warmer. There is more sun and less rain. While the days are ideal, the nights may be rainy and a little cold.

April in Santorini brings even slightly warmer weather, with pleasant evenings. However, the sea temperature average is an unpleasant 62.4°F (16.9°C).

By May in Santorini, the weather is consistently sunny and warm. This is one of the best spring months to visit, as the chance of rain is low, and the temperatures are high. Since it is also not peak season, there is excellent availability and pricing of accommodation.

Spring is also one of the best times to visit Greece, Santorini.

Summer in Santorini– June to September

The peak tourist season in Santorini is the summer months of June to September. During these months, the island is lively and busy, but the hotel prices go up substantially.

June in Santorini is sunny and hot, which offers perfect beach-going weather. The hotel prices are still reasonable because it is the start of peak season.

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

July in Santorini is also hot and is the busiest month for the island, meaning that if you plan on visiting in July, you will need to book accommodation long in advance.

August in Santorini is also hot but with strong winds. August is also a popular month with plenty of tourists, and temperatures average a high of 80.6°F (27°C) and an average low of 71.6°F (22°C). Even better, the temperature of the sea is a wonderful average of 78.3°F (25.7°C), perfect for swimming!

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

Autumn in Santorini– September to November

Autumn is a pleasant time in Santorini. After the summer heat, the weather starts to cool down a bit. Throughout most of autumn, it is still possible to swim.

By November, the rain begins again, which is why November is considered an off-season month for Greece, Santorini. By autumn, the strong seasonal winds, called the Metlemi winds, have stopped, offering pleasant weather.

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

September in Santorini is still hot and pleasant, but the temperature is cooling slightly. It also offers warmer water and fewer winds. As the first month of autumn, the temperature can still average a high of 77°F (25°C) and a low-temperature of 68°F (20°C).

October in Santorini is still pleasant but with colder evenings.

Santorini in November brings cooler weather with cloudy days as the winter season begins. The average temperature is 66.2°F (19°C).

Winter in Santorini – December to February

Winter in Santorini is cooler than in the rest of the year, but it does not get as cold as in places in Europe and America. However, it does rain more in the winter, and many tourist attractions, activities, and some restaurants are closed.

While you might not get the best beach weather and have as wide a range of restaurants, winter is the least busy time to visit the island. Along with this, accommodation and other activities are much cheaper than in the Summer months.

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

Santorini in December is generally rainy and cool but with periods of sun-filled days. As the first month in winter, it is still a generally pleasant month. The temperatures range from an average high of 60.8°F (16°C) and an average low of 51.8°F (11°C). Also important to note that sea temperatures in December drop to an unpleasant 63.7°F (17.6°C).

January in Santorini is the rainiest month on the island, with few tourists, and it is relatively quiet. February in Santorini is one of the coldest winter months and is often windy. February is also the month with the coldest average sea temperature of 61.7°F (16.5°C).

When is the Best Time to go to Santorini?

The best time to visit Greece, Santorini is at the start and the end of the peak season.

When is the best time to go to Santorini? While May, June, and September are some of the best months to visit Santorini in terms of weather, you may be more concerned about what activities are available to you and when the most cost-effective time to travel to the island is.

Cheapest Time to Travel to Santorini?

The most reasonably priced months to travel to Santorini are late spring to mid to late autumn. These periods are less expensive than the peak of summer while still being less crowded with a range of activities available to you.

However, the cheapest time to travel to Santorini is the winter months. During this time, accommodation is more affordable and easier to find, and even plane tickets often have discounts to travel in the off-season.

If the quieter, cooler winter holiday doesn’t appeal to you, you can try the time-old trick of taking advantage of Santorini’s last-minute deals at the end of each month.

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

Best Time to Visit Santorini – Activities and weather.

Your main concern for the more active traveler will be which activities you can do each season. Some of us have more of a penchant for water sports while others want more on land activities. All of these can be factors when deciding the best time to visit Santorini.

The best time to visit Greece, Santorini to do water sports is in Summer.

Winter and Autumn Activities

Autumn in Santorini offers a surprising number of activities. If your main priority is to swim, autumn offers warmer seas, and you can spend a long time on the beach without getting sunburned. Additionally, autumn provides the ideal cooler weather for hiking.

This is the perfect time to do the Caldera Trail Guided Hike along the rim of the volcanic caldera.

The best time to visit Greece, Santorini to avoid the crowds is in winter.

In winter, most of the islands’ activities may be closed. And doing water sports might not be the best due to the cold water temperature. Also, other outdoor activities such as hikes and walking tours may be unpleasant due to the cold and the rain.

If you plan on visiting in the winter months, book your activities in advance to ensure you can experience them. However, this is the perfect opportunity to explore the museums and incredible archaeological sites, immerse yourself in the local cuisine, and visit the wineries.

Summer and Spring Activities

Of course, if it’s a beach holiday that tickles your fancy, you will want to visit during the spring and summer. The consistent sunshine and hot days with warm weather are the ideal conditions for water sports.

Even at the end of August, when the winds pick up, they provide great wind-water sports opportunities like a Catamaran Small Group Cruise or sailing trips and meet all the prominent sights of this unique island.

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

Summary: When is the Best Time to Visit Santorini?

The best time to travel to Greece, Santorini, can depend on several factors. However, generally, the months from March to December are the best time of year to go to Santorini. These months offer lower prices, warmer days, and many activities and adventures.

With all its gems on offer, this picturesque island is your next dream location!

Last updated on October 13th, 2023 at 02:41 pm

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Where to Stay in Santorini: Our 2024 Guide to The Best Places

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

Updated On: March 20, 2024

Santorini was one destination that literally took our breath away. When we stepped out of the taxi to overlook the whitewashed buildings plunging down the caldera, we gasped at its beauty. Few Greek Islands are as well-known or as beautiful as Santorini. Famous for cave hotels with plunge pools in the rooms and infinity pools overlooking the caldera, Santorini has quickly become the most visited island in Greece. Two million tourists flock to the island every year, which has resulted in an astounding number of hotels and resorts. If you’re unsure of where to stay in Santorini, we have a complete breakdown of the best places to stay and the best hotels in Santorini. 

Table of Contents

Best Places To Stay In Santorini

Visiting Santorini for the first time can be overwhelming, especially if you don’t know much about the island. I know that we were overwhelmed trying to decide on the best area to stay in, Santorini, so we stayed at the beach in Oia, Imerovigli, and Fira. With our car rental , we managed to get around. During our day trips, we discovered more places to stay and made a note for our next visit, and to help you decide where to stay in Santorini, we’ve broken down the best areas.

Whether you want to stay close to historic attractions or find a hotel on the beach, we’ve also included hotels in every price range, so there’s an option for everyone. From the best budget hostels on the island to the most lavish resorts with private pools and hot tubs, Santorini caters to everyone. And this guide on where to stay in Santorini features at least a few hotels that will cater to your every need!

Oia is the quintessential Santorini town, known for its famous Santorini sunset views looking over the Aegean Sea, whitewashed houses, and blue-domed churches. It’s a good place for a first Santorini trip if you want to discover all the iconic sights and have easy access to the rest of the island. Also, Oia is the hotspot for luxury hotel stays and the best island area if you want to be pampered throughout your stay and have a private swimming pool in your cave hotel room. 

We think a private swimming pool might be necessary because Oia doesn’t have the best beaches. The famous town is located high atop a cliff with magnificent caldera views. It’s quite a bit of a walk from the hotel to the shore, but beaches are not why people stay in Oia. Oia attracts couples seeking a romantic vacation with private balconies, plunge pools, luxurious Cocomat beds, and infinity pools overlooking the Aegean Sea.

Oia can be very crowded, as most cruise tours that visit Santorini make a point of stopping in Oia, so having a luxury hotel to hide away in is essential. This is a picturesque village that everyone wants to see, so you’ll want to hide in luxury during the day.

Luxury: Andronis Luxury Suites 

Out of all the small luxury hotels in Santorini, Andronis Luxury Suites takes the cake as far as I’m concerned. If you want to live it up on the Greek island, nothing screams luxury as much as the suites in this fabulous hotel. It features a seasonal outdoor pool, private balconies, an on-site restaurant, and an excellent wellness center with yoga and fitness classes. Not to mention the amazing caldera views from the infinity pool.

Each guest suite has a private pool or private hot tub just a few steps from your bed. The smaller suites feature hot tubs, while the villas and bigger suites feature fantastic infinity pools. Each suite also has a private terrace and a sleek ensuite bathroom. The wardrobe space in the suites is generous, which I really appreciate, especially for longer stays. 

All the guest suites are decorated with modern furnishings and exposed marble and stone. Other room amenities include a flat-screen TV, coffee machine, free Wi-Fi, a dedicated seating area, and air conditioning. Of course, breakfast is included in the nightly rate, and you can enjoy it in the comfort of your lovely room, as we did. 

Mid-Range: Ducato Di Oia

Ducato Di Oia is a great four-star hotel five minutes from the famous Castle of Oia (the best sunset view on Santorini). The rooms feature sleek and modern furnishings and decor, which make the place airy and spacious. Also, there’s lots of exposed rock and concrete in the rooms, so you’ll feel like you’re staying inside a cave in Santorini. Breakfast is included in the room rate and everyone gets access to free WiFi. 

This hotel offers many different room types, from classic double rooms to luxury suites. Some suites even have indoor plunge pools, which is a lifesaver if you’re anything like me and have a very annoying sun allergy. Enjoy chilling in the pool in complete privacy while marveling at the magical Caldera views through the convenient windows. 

Every hotel room at Ducato Di Oia has an ensuite bathroom, seating area, TV, and a coffee machine. As for the other amenities, this hotel offers room service and a communal pool. But there’s no fitness center, spa, or restaurant on-site, so keep that in mind.  

Budget: Central Hostel Oia

If you want to experience Oia without breaking the bank, consider staying at Central Hostel Oia . It’s one of the cheapest options in this amazing town, and its location is pretty good for exploring the island. The hostel is next to the main road in Oia, and a bus stop is directly in front of it. 

Many excellent eateries are available near the accommodation, but you won’t experience those magical Santorini views from your room. Central Hostel Oia features mixed dormitories with bunk beds and spacious shared bathrooms. Everything is extra clean, which is always a big plus in our book, especially when sharing the space with strangers. 

The dormitories and common rooms are decorated with modern furnishings, most of which are white. Breakfast isn’t included in the nightly rate, but there is a spacious kitchen where guests can prepare meals. The hostel is also air-conditioned, and all guests can access free Wi-Fi. 

Pros of Staying in Oia

  • Best for luxury hotels and plenty of accommodation options
  • Good public transport connections to the rest of the island 
  • Lots of touristy things to do 
  • Great local restaurants 

Cons of Staying in Oia

  • The town is almost always crowded 
  • Fewer options for cheap hotels
  • Not great for a beach vacation 

2. Imerovigli

Imerovigli is the highest of the caldera town. This clifftop village features traditional cave houses, incredible panoramic views from Fira to Oia.

It is best known for its boutique hotels, many offering wonderful scenic vistas from their rooms. Choose this village if you like the idea of staying at a boutique hotel with a hot tub in the room but aren’t keen on the prices of similar resorts in Oia and Fira. 

In addition to bettersome of the best hotels in Santorini, Imerovigli is a good place to stay because of its interesting landmarks, great local restaurants, and location on the island. It is within walking distance of Thera and very close to the airport. You could even hike from the village to Oia—it would take just under two hours, and you’d enjoy surreal views the entire time. 

However, there are no beaches in Imerovigli or within a short walking distance. You would have to take a car ( we rented a car when staying in Imerogvigli, and they are very affordable) or ride public transport every time you want to hit the beach, which is certainly something to keep in mind. Also, there aren’t as many things to do in the village, so it’s not my top choice for travelers who love being out and exploring.  

Luxury: Iconic Santorini

Iconic Santorini is a boutique hotel with exceptional views of the Caldera islands. The five-star hotel features rooms with swimming pools, very comfortable beds, and an on-site restaurant with great local food. And because Imerovigli is right next to Fira, you’re just a short walk away from some of the island’s most popular tourist attractions. 

Whether you book the cheapest room or the most luxurious suite, you’ll have your own private terrace to enjoy the panoramic views. Most suites have a private plunge pool or hot tub, and guests who stay in a room without one can enjoy the shared infinity pool. 

All rooms have a private bathroom, coffee/tea maker, TV, and air conditioning. The most expensive suites feature private indoor and outdoor pools for the most luxurious experience. Breakfast is included in the nightly rate of all rooms and delivered to the table just outside your room. This hotel has a spa center and a more traditional gym with exercise equipment. 

Mid-Range: Tholos Resort

Tholos Resort is a four-star hotel with sweeping views of the volcano and designer rooms. It’s a fantastic option for travelers who prefer unique hotels because every room at the Tholos is a work of art. Enjoy the unique architecture that prioritizes comfort and functionality and emphasizes local art and culture. 

The resort also offers a swimming pool and an on-site restaurant with outdoor seating. The views from the restaurant tables are fantastic and will make any meal taste just a little better. Of course, thanks to the 18-hour room service, you can also enjoy the food in the privacy of your suite if you prefer. 

Room options range from small suites for couples to villas with indoor pools, so there’s something for everyone. Remember that the smaller suites have a doorless walk-in shower close to the bed, so they’re not a great option if you’re traveling with friends and want privacy. 

Budget: Meroviglia Boutique Hotel

Meroviglia Boutique Hotel is an excellent three-star hotel perfect for travelers on a tighter budget. In the off-season, you can even have a private plunge pool in your room for roughly $250. 

Standard rooms are significantly cheaper, especially considering all the amenities. All the guest rooms feature sleek, modern furnishings and decor, and the cheaper rooms have a shared pool. 

Meroviglia is a short walking distance from Fira, about 20 minutes if you take your time. The bus stop is very close to the hotel, as are many great local restaurants. The hotel has an on-site restaurant, and breakfast is included even in the cheapest nightly rates, which is great for the price point. All the rooms have a TV, balcony with amazing views of the Aegean Sea, and a private bathroom, but I must point out that the sink isn’t always in the bathroom, which isn’t ideal. 

Pros of Staying in Imerovigli

  • Great for boutique hotel stays 
  • Close to the airport
  • Walking distance to Fira

Cons of Staying in Imerovigli

  • No beaches in or around the village 
  • Fewer budget accommodation options 
  • Not too many things to do in the town

3. Fira/Thera

Fira or Thera is the capital of Santorini, located in the island’s center. It’s one of the most popular towns and a great place to stay for first-time visitors. Just remember that Fira is as busy as Oia and is best experienced in the off-season when the crowds are the smallest. 

If you’re not bothered by the crowds, you will have a great time in the island’s capital. The town offers plenty of touristy things to do, including the iconic blue-domed church with the three bells. It’s also very close to the airport, and the central location means you can be virtually anywhere on the island in under half an hour. If you have a car in Santorini, you can easily explore the entire island from Fira. 

The crowds shouldn’t be an issue if you plan to stay at the hotel most of the time since the town has some excellent resorts that offer complete privacy. But they could be an issue if you want to get out and explore as much as possible, especially if you plan on visiting the beaches. No beaches in Santorini are within walking distance of Thera, and the town isn’t the best option if you want to go for a swim in the sea. 

Luxury: Katikies Garden Santorini

Katikies Garden Santorini is one of the best hotels in Fira. The five-star hotel is in the center of the town, so just a short walk from all of Fira’s top attractions. All the rooms boast sleek modern furnishings, and I love that there’s a pop of color inside every room so it’s not at all monotonous. 

The suites offer views of the inner courtyard or the sea, and all but one are equipped with a hot tub or a private pool. If you’re going to spring for this fancy hotel, go for a room with at least a hot tub to thoroughly enjoy your stay. By far, the best room is the luxurious suite with a pool in the private garden, where you can enjoy ultimate privacy during your stay in Santorini. 

The hotel rooms are equipped with everything you’d expect from a five-star hotel. They have a desk, a seating area, a very comfortable bed, a TV, and a spacious private bathroom. All guests are welcome to use the outdoor infinity pool, which offers a spectacular view of Santorini’s rooftops and some remarkably comfortable lounge beds. 

Mid-Range: Winery Hotel 1870

Winery Hotel 1870 is a posh hotel set inside an old 19th-century winery. It is in the center of Fira, so you would be super close to all of the top attractions in the town, as well as all the best local bars and restaurants. 

The hotel is fabulous, with gorgeous and spacious rooms. Most are situated around the hotel pool, so you can practically jump into the pool from the room. I like how all the room doors open to the pool because it means you’re never more than a couple of steps away from anything you might need. However, you need to block off the view with shutters to enjoy complete privacy in your room. 

And for travelers who don’t like the idea of sharing, the Wintery Hotel 1870 offers rooms with private pools inside. All the suites have spacious ensuite bathrooms, a desk, a seating area, and a coffee machine. The only thing I don’t love about the rooms is that the wardrobe area is small and meant for hangers, and I could see the place getting (very) messy if I were getting ready for a night out, especially on a girl’s trip. 

Budget: Afrodete Hotel

The Afrodete Hotel is a budget option in Fira, close to Firostefani Central Square. The location is great because the hotel is super close to affordable local eateries and shops, as well as popular landmarks in Fira. 

Come here in the off-season, and you’ll pay only $30 per person for a double room. The rates are significantly more expensive in peak season, but it’s still a solid deal for such a central location in Fira. The hotel rooms are actually nice; they’re decorated with modern and colorful furnishings, and it’s clear that a lot of thought went into their design and decor. 

All the rooms have a small seating area, a desk, a minifridge, a private bathroom, an electric kettle, and a flat-screen TV. The hotel even has a pool, but it’s very small and not really suitable for proper swimming. But it will do if you just want to relax in the water for a little while and enjoy the panoramic view of Santorini’s rooftops. 

Pros of Staying in Fira/Thera

  • Lots of options for hotels 
  • Many landmarks and tourist attractions 
  • Close to the airport 
  • Easy access to other towns on the island by public transport

Cons of Staying in Fira/Thera

  • Very crowded 
  • Pricey accommodation 
  • No beaches 

Perissa is one of the best beach towns in Santorini and a great place to stay if you want a traditional beach vacation. Choose this town for the beautiful black sand beach, excellent resorts, and countless beach restaurants and beach bars. Perissa is also very close to Ancient Thera, and hiking trails lead you from the village to the historic ruins. 

Another thing I love about this town in Santorini is that it has hotels for everyone’s budget. Whether you’re looking for a cheap room or a high-end resort, Perissa has plenty of options. But that’s also the biggest issue I have with this location; it’s mostly hotels and resorts, and there are few touristy things to do in the town. 

The upside is that Perissa is roughly a 20-minute from Akrotiri and Fira, so you can easily pop over to the next town to explore landmarks and historic attractions. You could even hike into Kamari over the Mesa Vouno mountain; it would take maybe an hour and a half, and it would be an epic experience for all outdoor lovers in Santorini. 

Luxury: Aqua Blue Beach Hotel

Aqua Blue Beach Hotel is an excellent five-star hotel with a beachfront location. Featuring modern rooms, three swimming pools, and an excellent wellness center, the hotel is a great option for tourists who want to be pampered during their stay in Santorini. Relax on the beds by the pool or head down to the private area on Perissa Beach to fully enjoy your stay. 

Sunbeds are included in the room’s cost, so you can lounge on the beach as much as you like. The hotel also has a buffet restaurant that serves breakfast and dinner and a lounge bar by the pool that offers cold and refreshing drinks all day long. Breakfast and free Wi-Fi are also included in the nightly rate. 

All the guest rooms feature a TV, desk, and air conditioning, but only the bigger rooms have a separate seating area. The studio and family apartments also include kitchenettes. The contemporary decor of the rooms is nice, but frankly, it’s a bit too basic for my taste. I like that there’s a pop of color in all the rooms, but I would prefer for the design to reflect the vibe of the island a bit more. 

Mid-Range: Anastasia Princess Luxury Residence

Anastasia Princess Luxury Beach Residence is an adults-only beachfront hotel. Choose from five types of suites, which range from a classic studio to an executive suite with a plunge pool in the room. All guests also have access to the hotel’s three swimming pools and can make use of the on-site spa and wellness center. 

The hotel is right next to the beach, with a sprawling lounge reserved just for their guests. Service is available even on the beach, so whether you need a fresh towel or a cold drink, you can get it without moving an inch. The suites are contemporary and equipped with everything you might need during your stay. Every suite has a private bathroom, seating area, and even a small kitchen area with a fridge and a coffee maker. 

The shared spaces are all beautifully decorated, and there’s plenty of room for all the guests to be comfortable without feeling like they’re forced to mingle with strangers. One thing to note is that this hotel doesn’t have an on-site restaurant, but that shouldn’t be an issue because there are loads of local eateries nearby. 

Budget: The Best

The Best is a three-star hotel in Perissa with very affordable nightly rates. Come here in the off-season and you can get a room for as little as $65! The rates double in the high season, but the hotel is still fairly affordable by Santorini standards. The rooms at The Best Hotel are honestly nothing special. You get all the basic amenities, including a comfortable double bed, private bathroom, kettle, desk, and TV. 

All rooms also have either a patio or a terrace, so you can enjoy relaxing outdoors in the evenings. But that’s pretty much it, and I have to say that the furnishings could stand to be updated a little. As for the shared spaces, the hotel has three swimming pools and a bar. Unfortunately, there’s no restaurant on-site, but the place is super close to dozens of great and cheap local eateries. 

Also, This hotel isn’t located directly on the beach but just down the road. It doesn’t have loungers and sun umbrellas for guests, but you can put down a towel on a secluded area of the beach or spring for the beach bar’s sunbeds. Overall, it’s a good place to stay for a cheap beach vacation in Santorini, but I would not recommend it to people who expect a lot more than just a place to spend the night. 

Pros of Staying in Perissa

  • Great for beach vacations
  • Not as crowded as the main tourist hotspots
  • Affordable local restaurants
  • Close to historic attractions 

Cons of Staying in Perissa

  • Few things to do in the village 
  • Quite far from Fira and Oia 
  • Large sections of Perissa Beach are reserved by hotels 

5. Akrotiri

Akrotiri is a village on the southwestern tip of Santorini. Stay here if you can’t decide between unspoiled beaches and historic attractions because Akrotiri has both. Nearby beaches in Akrotiri include Red Beach, White Beach and Caldera Beach. We visited these beaches on a sunset cruise which was wonderful.

Also, the crowds here are much smaller than in Fira Town or Oia, making it my favorite part of Santorini. The only downside is that it’s quite far from Oia, and you’d have to travel for a while to reach the towns and villages in the northern part of the island. 

But that’s fine because there’s so much to do and see in Akrotiri. It’s home to the Akrotiri lighthouse, the ruins of a Venetian castle, and the archaeological site of the prehistoric town of Akrotiri. Some of the island’s best beaches are in this area, including the famous Red Beach and the Black Beach. 

Akrotiri village is quite small, and I’ve decided to include all the hotels and resorts in this region of Santorini, not just in the village. This means that you’ll see some fabulous secluded hotels where you can enjoy ultimate privacy. 

Luxury: Phos The Boutique

Phos The Boutique is probably my top choice of all the hotels in Santorini. It’s in a secluded area of Akrotiri, and there’s nothing in the immediate surroundings. If you love privacy and want to feel like you’re staying in the middle of nowhere, this is a great option. However, it makes sense to stay at this hotel only if you plan on renting a car in Santorini or if you’re okay with taking the hotel’s luxury VIP transfers. 

The beach is just a two-minute drive from the hotel, and the Akrotiri village is another 5 minutes. The hotel has an excellent restaurant where you can enjoy romantic candlelit dinners, and you technically don’t have to leave the premises if you don’t want to. As for the hotel amenities, the main selling point is that every suite at Phos The Boutique has a private infinity pool with a bed in the pool. 

The suites are airy and spacious, with separate living and sleeping quarters. Every suite has a private bathroom, balcony, and patio. All the rooms are decorated with modern furnishings, and everything at the hotel is top-notch. Breakfast is served a la carte, and guests can enjoy it in the room or in their private pool, which is definitely the preferred option. Overall, for pure hedonism and luxury, there’s hardly a better hotel in all of Santorini. 

Mid-Range: Hotel Goulielmos

Hotel Goulielmos is a nice four-star hotel in a rural area of Akrotiri. The clifftop hotel offers panoramic views of the Caldera and easy access to a nearby beach. It’s also just a short drive from the main Akrotiri village with seasonal shops and restaurants. 

The hotel rooms feature a nice blend of modern and traditional Greek decor, with contemporary accents in the rooms but more traditional style in the ensuite bathrooms. All the rooms have a small balcony or terrace, a desk, and a flat-screen TV. The bigger rooms also include a seating area, and many of the pricier rooms feature either a pool or a hot tub. 

As for the other amenities, Hotel Goulielmos offers a shared pool and an on-site restaurant. The pool is somewhat small, but comfortable loungers and sunbeds surround it. A buffet breakfast is included in the nightly rate, and guests can eat lunch or dinner at the hotel restaurant which serves traditional Mediterranean cuisine. It’s worth noting that this hotel doesn’t have a fitness center or a spa. 

Budget: Caldera Romantica Hotel

Caldera Romantica Hotel is an excellent option for a budget stay in Akrotiri. It’s just outside the Akrotiri village, easily accessible by car or a 20-minute walk. The hotel rooms are exceptionally nice and look like they belong in a much more expensive hotel. 

Every room has a comfortable double bed, a balcony, a private bathroom, a desk, and a TV. All guests have access to the outdoor pool, which offers sweeping views of the caldera. There’s also a lounge area by the pool, and you could spend your entire days here just relaxing and having the time of your life. 

The hotel also features an on-site restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating. I love that the indoor area of the restaurant features glass walls, so you can still enjoy beautiful caldera views with your meals. Breakfast is included in all nightly rates and there’s even a snack bar by the pool that serves light meals and drinks. 

Pros of Staying in Akrotiri

  • Best for Santorini’s historic attractions
  • Easy access to secluded beaches 
  • Hotels are more affordable
  • Not very crowded 

Cons of Staying in Akrotiri

  • Fewer restaurants and bars
  • Quite far from other towns on the island 
  • It’s harder to get around without a vehicle 

Consider staying in Kamari if you want to be close to one of Santorini’s best beaches. The village is best known for Paralia Kamari, a black sand and pebble beach lined with loungers, sun umbrellas, and beach bars. 

Kamari is quite popular with tourists in Santorini, so it features hotels and resorts in every price range. Also, the village offers easy access to other towns in Santorini as it’s just a 15-minute ride from Fira, and Perissa is accessible on hikes over Mesa Vouno. Stay here for endless options for fun and exciting ways of exploring Santorini. 

Additionally, Kamari is one of the villages closest to the airport and it’s up to you to decide whether that’s a pro or a con. You can be at the hotel no longer than 10 minutes after you land and go through passport control, but it also means that planes often fly low over the village and make a lot of noise. 

Luxury: Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort

Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort is the best luxury resort in Kamari. Featuring spacious rooms with super comfortable beds and pristine ensuite bathrooms, this adults-only hotel is an excellent choice for a romantic Santorini vacation. 

All rooms have flat-screen TVs, private terraces or balconies, and coffee machines. Guests can enjoy the two extensive pools, including a large outdoor pool, which is surrounded by comfortable loungers and sun umbrellas. The hotel also boasts a fitness center, a spa, and two excellent restaurants.   

The resort reserves an area of Kamari Beach for its guests, offering loungers and sun umbrellas that are included in your stay. It’s worth noting that the resort isn’t beachfront; it’s only two minutes away from the beach, but I reckon it’s something you’d want to know before booking your stay. 

Mid-Range: Tamarix Del Mar Suites

Tamarix Del Mar Suites is another five-star hotel in Kamari, but its rates are significantly lower than those of the luxury resorts. A night in the off-season starts at around $150-200, which is a really good deal for such a high-end hotel in Santorini. The low rate is for basic double rooms, and it includes breakfast. 

The complex was renovated to resemble a miniature village in Santorini, so there’s lots of white and blue. Hotel buildings all resemble endearing Greek houses, and it’s just a lovely vibe to wake up to each morning. The Greek charm seeps into the individual suites as well, in the form of colorful accents and textured walls. 

This fabulous hotel also offers indoor and outdoor swimming pools, as well as a separate children’s pool. It’s got a nice spa and wellness center, gym area, and an on-site restaurant. The guest rooms all have ensuite bathrooms, roomy seating areas, and a small private kitchen. 

Budget: Alesahne Beach Hotel

Alesahne Beach Hotel is an affordable three-star hotel a stone’s throw away from Kamari Beach. It offers nice – but small – rooms with balconies and ensuite bathrooms. All the guest rooms have a desk area, but it’s important to note that the only seating area in the smaller rooms is the chairs on the balcony. 

The bigger rooms feature a small seating area separate from the bedroom and breakfast is included in all stays. Coffee makers and flat-screen TVs are also available in all the guest rooms. 

This hotel has a private section on Kamari Beach reserved only for its guests, and sunbeds are included in the nightly rate. There’s also an outdoor pool for guests who prefer to stay closer to their room, as well as an on-site restaurant. 

Pros of Staying in Kamari

  • Great town for beach stays 
  • Hotels and resorts are cheaper 
  • Easy access to other destinations on the island 

Cons of Staying in Kamari

  • Planes fly low over the village
  • Fewer tourist attractions 
  • No Caldera views 

Where is the best place to stay in Santorini for the first time? 

Fira and Oia are generally the best places to stay in Santorini for a first trip, as long as you don’t mind the crowds. The two towns have the most tourist attractions, but neither is a top destination if you’re primarily interested in easy beach access. 

What part of Santorini is best to stay?

Oia is the best part of Santorini to stay in if you want to visit popular landmarks and those spectacular sunset views. But if you want easy access to a lovely beach, Perissa and Kamari are better destinations. 

Is it better to stay in Fira or Oia? 

Oia is better for luxury hotel stays, but Fira is better if you want to explore the rest of the island. Both towns are great for a first trip to Santorini and offer excellent hotels and scenic Caldera views.  

Where to avoid staying in Santorini?

Avoid the villages in the central area of the island. While they usually offer cheaper accommodation and a chance to explore attractions off the beaten path, they’re quite far from anything of interest on the island. 

It would take a while to get to the beach or a touristy town or village, and you’d either have to take public transport or pay for costly private transfers. 

Consider Akrotiri instead . The town is known for its archeological ruins, the Akrotiri lighthouse, and easy access to beautiful beaches. Also, Akrotiri has some of the best cheap hotels in Santorini, and it’s a top option for affordable stays away from Santorini’s busiest towns. It encompasses most of the southwestern tip of Santorini, and you can choose between hotels smack dab in the middle of the village or secluded resorts in remote areas. 

Although Oia and Fira are the best towns on the island, they can be very crowded, so those looking for a quiet vacation may not enjoy it. Although when you can hide away in a luxury cave hotel away from it all, it is heavenly.

Instead, opt for a smaller village like Imerovigli or Finikia and take day trips to the bigger towns. The same goes for Perissa and Kamari—if you’re not specifically looking for beachfront resorts, these aren’t the best places in Santorini.  

Is one or two days enough to visit Santorini?

One day in Santorini is definitely not enough. Two days in Santorini can be enough to experience some of the island’s highlights, but it certainly won’t cover everything this enchanting destination has to offer. We recommend at least three nights in Santorini to see some of the highlights of Oia, Fira, and to take a wine tour, sunset cruise or to see its beaches.

How to Get to Santorini

You can fly into Santorini airport or take the ferry to Santorini. Daily flights leave Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) and take 40 minutes to get to the island. Once there you can catch a taxi to your hotel.

Ferries also operate daily to Santorini from the Piraeus in Athens. Santorini is also connected by ferry to other Greek Islands. We flew from Athens to Santorini and then continued on the Crete by ferry.

Getting Around Santorini

Driving around Santorini is not only a great way to explore the forgotten villages away from Oia, but it will save you time and patience. Check out the best car rental prices here.

Santorini has a decent public bus network that services all the major villages on the island. But unless you are in Fira, you’ll be restricted by the limited offerings, especially if you wish to go to the East Coast.

In peak season, you’ll be sharing the buses, not just with locals but with a mass of travelers who all have the same idea as you. If you want to see all of Santorini and it fits the budget, we recommend picking a car up for the trip.

Best Time to Visit Santorini

The busiest times to visit Santorini are during the summer months. This is the best weather as Santorini has a Mediterranean climate but is also the most crowded with cruise ships. However, if you are staying in a luxury hotel or a boutique hotel with a private pool, you may not care about the crowds. You can relax at the pool bar away from the crowds and wait for the cruise ships to leave.

If you are staying in one of the beach towns, the best weather is from June to September.

To avoid the crowds, you should visit in shoulder season, either September and October or April and May. We visited in October, and the weather was still very warm.

Why We Love Santorini

We love Santorini because it’s an idyllic island that epitomizes everything we know and love about Greece. It’s the top destination in the Cyclades for those magical cave hotels , stunning Caldera views, and postcard-worthy photographs . Santorini is the island of terraced whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches, which you’ve likely seen many times in all the promotional materials for Greek tourism. 

It’s the perfect place for a late summer vacation, whether you want to spend all your time relaxing by the pool or hiking from one village to the next. There are so many fun and interesting things to do in Santorini that there’s no way anyone could be bored there. Explore the ruins of ancient towns, go scuba diving, tour the wineries, and ride horses on sandy black beaches. The possibilities are endless, and I’m positive you’ll fall in love with Santorini as much as we did when you stepped foot on the island. 

Plan Your Next Vacation to Santorini With These Resources

  • The best things to do in Santorini
  • Your Photography Guide to Santorini
  • The iconic Santorini Cave Hotel experience
  • The Best Places to Visit in Santorini, Greece
  • 17 Best Cities in Greece To Visit
  • The Best Places to Visit in Greece

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

  • Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
  • Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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I booked a $50 ticket on an 8-hour ferry from Athens to Santorini. The views were great, but I don't think I'd do it again.

  • I often take ferries around the Greek Islands , but Athen to Santorini was my longest journey yet.
  • I traveled on a gray, rainy day, but the ferry was smooth and the views were still good.
  • The ticket was only about $50, but I probably wouldn't do it again since flying is much faster.

Insider Today

I live in Athens, Greece , and often take ferries to explore the Greek Islands.

I recently booked an economy-class ticket on a Blue Star ferry from Athens to Santorini for 45 euros, or about $50. The nearly eight-hour journey was set to be my longest ferry ride to date.

Some smaller ferry services from Athens to Santorini are quicker — the fastest sailing time is around five hours — but they can be choppy and some don't have any outdoor space.

Here's how my long journey went.

Finding my gate at the port wasn't easy.

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

My ticket told me to arrive at Piraeus Port's Gate E2 one hour before departure. I arrived an hour and 10 minutes early, but I couldn't find my ferry.

Assuming I was too early, I waited for a while, but 45 minutes before departure, I decided to ask someone. The Blue Star Ferry counter nearby was closed, so I spoke to a police officer who informed me that "Gate E2 is big."

He said my ferry would leave from a spot a five-minute walk away, but it was more like 10 minutes with a suitcase.

I left my luggage in an unorganized pile in the ferry's car park — slightly concerned about finding it again — and boarded the boat.

I'm glad I got there early.

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

After booking, I learned that economy tickets don't come with assigned seating — it was first come, first served — so I knew I wanted to get there early.

Despite my false start, I boarded the ferry before many of the other economy passengers, giving me a choice of seat. There was a mix of shared sofas, tables and chairs, and outdoor garden-like chairs.

I opted for a small table with two low-slung, padded seats by a window. Like most economy-level seats on the ferry, mine didn't have headrests, so it was a bit uncomfortable after a few hours.

I later discovered I could've booked a comfy lounger seat on the ferry for a few more euros.

There wasn’t much entertainment on board.

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

The journey took seven hours and 50 minutes — roughly the same as a flight from New York to Berlin — and there wasn't much to do on the boat.

I found a small shop selling books, toys, headphones, and slippers, and Wi-Fi was available for a fee.

But I was glad I brought a book and downloaded Netflix shows to watch as we sailed. My portable power bank also came in handy because outlets were sparse.

Food options were also limited.

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

When it came to food, there were only two cafés serving coffee and snacks and a fast-food restaurant .

I ended up getting a coffee and a burger with fries for lunch.

The journey was scenic.

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

I traveled in early March, so the views from the ferry weren't the vibrant summer blues typically associated with the region.

The sea and sky were gray for most of the journey. But we stopped at Paros and Naxos before reaching Santorini, and I loved peering at the islands as we approached them.

It was too cold and windy to spend much time on the decks.

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

I tried to walk around some of the ferry's outdoor decks a few times during the journey to get better views. But it was cold, windy, and rainy, so I didn't last long.

It was a smooth sail and disembarking in Santorini was easy — even in the rain.

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

My ferry was large and slow, which made the journey fairly smooth despite the wind and waves.

The many (very loud) announcements in both Greek and English ensured I knew when it was time for me to disembark. And finding my luggage was surprisingly quick and easy.

Transportation is necessary to get around Santorini's impressive, towering cliffs, so I was glad I arranged a ride ahead of time. But there were some taxis, car rentals , and buses available at the port.

The ferry ride wasn't bad, but next time, I'd take a flight.

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

There was nothing terrible about my journey from Athens to Santorini . But I don't think I'd book an economy ticket on the ferry again.

Flights between the Greek destinations take less than an hour and are sometimes even cheaper than 45 euros.

It's nice to have the option to take as much luggage as you can carry on the ferry, which isn't possible on a plane. But the journey felt long and a little uncomfortable at times.

cheapest time to visit santorini greece

  • Main content

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Europe’s ‘Island of Colours’ is the cheaper Santorini alternative to book

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Santorini island, Greece.

Infamous for its blue-topped buildings and white stone walls, Santorini is an immensely popular destination for those looking to sample the Greek island life.

But with more than 2.5 million visitors annually and only approximately 15,500 permanent residents (180 tourists to every local), this Greek gem is becoming increasingly busy – and expensive.

Santorini regularly features in lists of the top 10 most expensive holidays in Europe, with the average one-week break costing upwards of £1,200 per person . Though bargain accommodation is available, the cheaper options get snapped up quickly, and in some of the island’s five star hotels, your costs can easily triple .

It doesn’t get quieter in the winter, either, as tourism continues to thrive here even when it’s a few degrees cooler. So much so that it was likened to Disneyland and Las Vegas by disgruntled visitors on Reddit.

Out of your budget? No desire to fight with the crowds? We have the perfect destination dupe for you: the Greek island of Milos.

Mandrakia, Milos island

Averaging 85,560 tourists each year, Milos has almost 2.7 million fewer travellers landing here than Santorini.

Just north of the Sea of Crete, Milos is the southwestern-most island in the Cyclades group. It’s known as the ‘Island of colours’ thanks to its vibrant waters and buildings painted in vivid primary tones.

Inundated with breathtaking photo opportunities and a coastline that boasts more than 40 exotic beaches, Milos averages maximum temperatures of 27.1, 28.1 and 27.6 degrees Celsius in June, July and August, making it the perfect sunbathing spot.

It’s also cheaper than Santorini, so if you’re looking to save the pennies, this underrated destination is one for you.

Things to do in Milos

Hailed as a picturesque ‘fisherman’s village,’ Klima is a must-see spot on the island.

A small settlement constructed right in front of the sea, this area is still inhabited by the local fishermen, populated with traditional houses called syrmata. Some of them are even available to rent out.

@dashakofman Milos is such one of my favorite greek island. The beaches and fisherman villages are out of this world. If you have a rental car its fairly easy to see all of the sites in 2 days, but it can easily be extended if you want to take things slower! #greece #travellife #traveldestinations #travelinspiration #travelinspo #milos #europeansummer #milostravel #milostravelguide #milostraveltips ♬ Au Revoir – Sweet After Tears

Carved directly into the rocks, they’re known for their colourful doors and balconies. Forget Cottagecore – anyone for a bit of Fishermancore?

Beachgoers mustn’t miss Sarakiniko – a spot with volcanic origins, white sands and glittering turquoise waters that put the UK to shame.

And Plaka, the capital of Milos, is a gorgeous village characterised by typical Cycladic architecture that dates back to the 1800s.

Scenic Klima village (traditional Greek village by the sea, the Cycladic-style) with sirmata - traditional fishermen's houses, Milos island, Cyclades, Greece.

Here, alongside the white houses and narrow streets you’ll also find in Santorini, you can visit the Sand Museum or the Archaeological Museum.

The latter has a replica of one of the world’s most famous statues: Venus de Milo, the original of which is now exhibited at the Louvre in Paris.

How to get to Milos

Despite its beauty, you can’t fly direct to Milos from London – which perhaps attests to its more undiscovered character compared with Santorini.

To reach this gorgeous gem, you’ll need to fly to Athens International Airport and change for a 40-minute flight to Milo s.

You can also catch a ferry from Athens, which takes around 4 hours and 16 minutes.

Fishing village of Klima

When to visit Milos

As with any of the Greek Islands, it’s recommended to visit between May and October.

If you’re wanting heat, the hottest months are July and August, but these will no doubt be the busiest.

@whereshouldwegonext Day 1 Agenda in Milos Greece. We spent 3 nights on the island before going to Paros #greecetravel #travelagenda #travelplans2023 #milosgreece ♬ original sound – Where Should We Go Next?

For better prices and fewer people, May, June, September and October are advisable months to visit, when the maximum temperatures average 22.8, 27.1, 25.2 and 21.3 degrees Celsius.

Happy holiday planning!

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The 10 Cheapest Countries to Visit

Posted: April 28, 2023 | Last updated: July 3, 2023

<p>                     If you're planning your next vacation, we've found the cheapest countries to visit around the world. Despite the effects of inflation on everything from eggs to electric cars, there are some places where your dollar will work in your favor, getting you an exotic trip for less than you might expect.                   </p>                                      <p>                     Our ranking is based on the average total daily cost you might pay once you reach your destination — including accommodation, food, and the daily cost of living. Obviously, the missing element is the cost of airfare, but flight costs vary so much depending on the time of year you're traveling, and where you're flying from, and to, that it's not helpful to factor those into our selection. If you want to know how to find and save money on flights to Europe, we've got some strategies for doing just that.                   </p>                                      <p>                     To give you some inspiration for your flight hunting, check out the top 10 cheapest countries to travel to in 2023.                   </p>                                      <p>                     Data sources include TheGlobalEconomy.com, Numbeo's cost of living database, and Budget Your Trip.                   </p>                                      <p>                     <em>BY QUINCY WILLIAMSON</em>                   </p>

If you're planning your next vacation, we've found the cheapest countries to visit around the world. Despite the effects of inflation on everything from eggs to electric cars, there are some places where your dollar will work in your favor, getting you an exotic trip for less than you might expect.

Our ranking is based on the average total daily cost you might pay once you reach your destination — including accommodation, food, and the daily cost of living. Obviously, the missing element is the cost of airfare, but flight costs vary so much depending on the time of year you're traveling, and where you're flying from, and to, that it's not helpful to factor those into our selection. If you want to know how to find and save money on flights to Europe, we've got some strategies for doing just that.

To give you some inspiration for your flight hunting, check out the top 10 cheapest countries to travel to in 2023.

Data sources include TheGlobalEconomy.com, Numbeo's cost of living database, and Budget Your Trip.

BY QUINCY WILLIAMSON

<p>                     <strong>Average daily cost: $131<br> Average accommodation cost: $93<br> Average daily meals cost: $34</strong>                   </p>                                      <p>                     From idyllic beaches to world-renowned historical sites, Greece is one of Europe’s top summer destinations for travelers. After the debt crisis in 2010, prices have been relatively low for years, but prices can vary widely depending on location — if you're heading for a holiday hotspot (like Mykonos or Santorini) expect to pay far more than for a lesser-known part of the country. Timing is also crucial when visiting this Mediterranean country. Try to avoid the high-season summer months to take advantage of the great prices.                   </p>

Average daily cost: $131 Average accommodation cost: $93 Average daily meals cost: $34

From idyllic beaches to world-renowned historical sites, Greece is one of Europe’s top summer destinations for travelers. After the debt crisis in 2010, prices have been relatively low for years, but prices can vary widely depending on location — if you're heading for a holiday hotspot (like Mykonos or Santorini) expect to pay far more than for a lesser-known part of the country. Timing is also crucial when visiting this Mediterranean country. Try to avoid the high-season summer months to take advantage of the great prices.

<p>                     <strong>Average daily cost: $116<br> Average accommodation cost: $75<br> Average daily meals cost: $34</strong>                   </p>                                      <p>                     Portugal is one of the best-value destinations in Europe. It's known for its seafood, wine, views, delicious custard tarts (pastéis de nata), and 300+ days of sunshine. Whether you head for vibrant Lisbon, to the sandy beaches of the south or for a wine and port tour in Porto, you’ll get a reasonably-priced vacation while enjoying the sights and sounds that this friendly southern European country has to offer.                   </p>

9. Portugal

Average daily cost: $116 Average accommodation cost: $75 Average daily meals cost: $34

Portugal is one of the best-value destinations in Europe. It's known for its seafood, wine, views, delicious custard tarts (pastéis de nata), and 300+ days of sunshine. Whether you head for vibrant Lisbon, to the sandy beaches of the south or for a wine and port tour in Porto, you’ll get a reasonably-priced vacation while enjoying the sights and sounds that this friendly southern European country has to offer.

<p>                     <strong>Average daily cost: $110<br> Average accommodation cost: $70<br> Average daily meals cost: $30</strong>                   </p>                                      <p>                     Only a two-hour flight from Miami and less than four hours from New York City, Americans are frequent visitors to this sunny, year-round Caribbean destination. Spanish-speaking Dominican Republic makes up half of the second-largest island in the Caribbean (Hispaniola), French-speaking Haiti makes up the western half. With white sand beaches, lagoons, and rainforests, there’s plenty to explore while enjoying the natural beauty of the country.                   </p>

8. Dominican Republic

Average daily cost: $110 Average accommodation cost: $70 Average daily meals cost: $30

Only a two-hour flight from Miami and less than four hours from New York City, Americans are frequent visitors to this sunny, year-round Caribbean destination. Spanish-speaking Dominican Republic makes up half of the second-largest island in the Caribbean (Hispaniola), French-speaking Haiti makes up the western half. With white sand beaches, lagoons, and rainforests, there’s plenty to explore while enjoying the natural beauty of the country.

<p>                     <strong>Average daily cost: $93<br> Average accommodation cost: $53<br> Average daily meals cost: $20</strong>                   </p>                                      <p>                     America’s neighbor Mexico is home to the fifth largest city in the world. Not only does Mexico have several urban oases, but the North American country is also known for its beautiful beaches that are regularly listed as some of the best in the world. From ancient jungle ruins to iconic modernist buildings, you’ll find pretty much everything you could want in a vacation here and for a good price.                    </p>

Average daily cost: $93 Average accommodation cost: $53 Average daily meals cost: $20

America’s neighbor Mexico is home to the fifth largest city in the world. Not only does Mexico have several urban oases, but the North American country is also known for its beautiful beaches that are regularly listed as some of the best in the world. From ancient jungle ruins to iconic modernist buildings, you’ll find pretty much everything you could want in a vacation here and for a good price. 

<p>                     <strong>Average daily cost: $81<br> Average accommodation cost: $41<br> Average daily meals cost: $17</strong>                   </p>                                      <p>                     Despite being the size of West Virginia, Costa Rica is a land of abundance and adventure. The quiet central American country has miles of coastline of both the Pacific and Caribbean oceans, it's got jungle lodges, rainforest treks, volcanoes, and cloud forests. It boasts some of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet. With fresh food and fruit in abundance, you can truly enjoy the “pura vida.”                    </p>

6. Costa Rica

Average daily cost: $81 Average accommodation cost: $41 Average daily meals cost: $17

Despite being the size of West Virginia, Costa Rica is a land of abundance and adventure. The quiet central American country has miles of coastline of both the Pacific and Caribbean oceans, it's got jungle lodges, rainforest treks, volcanoes, and cloud forests. It boasts some of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet. With fresh food and fruit in abundance, you can truly enjoy the “pura vida.” 

<p>                     <strong>Average daily cost: $70 <br> Average accommodation cost: $33 <br> Average daily meals cost: $17</strong>                   </p>                                      <p>                     At the crossroads of Europe, Hungary has managed to keep its quaint villages, while Budapest — the “city of lights” — still reigns as a metropolitan center. You’ve most likely seen the spectacular Hungarian Parliament building sitting on the Danube River. Hungary’s countryside includes beautiful scenery with mountains, rivers, and lush valleys.                   </p>

Average daily cost: $70  Average accommodation cost: $33  Average daily meals cost: $17

At the crossroads of Europe, Hungary has managed to keep its quaint villages, while Budapest — the “city of lights” — still reigns as a metropolitan center. You’ve most likely seen the spectacular Hungarian Parliament building sitting on the Danube River. Hungary’s countryside includes beautiful scenery with mountains, rivers, and lush valleys.

<p>                     <strong>Average daily cost: $52<br> Average accommodation cost: $21<br> Average daily meals cost: $14</strong>                   </p>                                      <p>                     Flights to this south Asian country can be expensive, but other costs make up for it. Known for its tropical beaches, jungle temples, Buddha statues, and the delicious restaurants and street markets in the bustling city of Bangkok, it's no wonder Thailand is the most visited country in Southeast Asia.                   </p>

4. Thailand

Average daily cost: $52 Average accommodation cost: $21 Average daily meals cost: $14

Flights to this south Asian country can be expensive, but other costs make up for it. Known for its tropical beaches, jungle temples, Buddha statues, and the delicious restaurants and street markets in the bustling city of Bangkok, it's no wonder Thailand is the most visited country in Southeast Asia.

<p>                     <strong>Average daily cost: $47<br> Average accommodation cost: $36 <br> Average daily meals cost: $12</strong>                   </p>                                      <p>                     Indonesia is home to Bali — often at the top of rankings when it comes to the best place to visit in the world. But there’s more to this paradise of a country than Instagram-worthy views. With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is the world’s largest island country boasting stunning beaches, volcanoes, jungles, orangutan colonies, giant Komodo dragons, and vast mountain ranges. And the best of all — your money goes very far here.                   </p>

3. Indonesia

Average daily cost: $47 Average accommodation cost: $36  Average daily meals cost: $12

Indonesia is home to Bali — often at the top of rankings when it comes to the best place to visit in the world. But there’s more to this paradise of a country than Instagram-worthy views. With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is the world’s largest island country boasting stunning beaches, volcanoes, jungles, orangutan colonies, giant Komodo dragons, and vast mountain ranges. And the best of all — your money goes very far here.

<p>                     <strong>Average daily cost: $23 <br> Average accommodation cost: $13 <br> Average daily meals cost: $7</strong>                   </p>                                      <p>                     Turkey is one of the most visited countries in the world but remains an underrated tourist destination. Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey is a fabulous melting pot of cultures that can be seen in everything from architecture to cuisine. There's an assortment of choices for visitors, from mountain ranges to beach-littered coasts, to the sprawling colorful metropolis of Istanbul — Turkey has everything. Despite the devasting earthquakes that hit the country, many tourist destinations in the west of the country (hundreds of miles from the affected areas) are open and actively welcoming visitors. Tourist dollars will be all too vital for the rebuilding effort.                   </p>

Average daily cost: $23  Average accommodation cost: $13  Average daily meals cost: $7

Turkey is one of the most visited countries in the world but remains an underrated tourist destination. Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey is a fabulous melting pot of cultures that can be seen in everything from architecture to cuisine. There's an assortment of choices for visitors, from mountain ranges to beach-littered coasts, to the sprawling colorful metropolis of Istanbul — Turkey has everything. Despite the devasting earthquakes that hit the country, many tourist destinations in the west of the country (hundreds of miles from the affected areas) are open and actively welcoming visitors. Tourist dollars will be all too vital for the rebuilding effort.

<p>                     <strong>Average daily cost: $15<br> Average accommodation cost: $8<br> Average daily meals cost: $5</strong>                   </p>                                      <p>                     Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia but it still manages to have over 4,000 islands. From the islands of the Mekong Delta to the stunning waterfalls of the interior, Laos is one of the few countries in the world that hasn’t lost its natural beauty to sprawling development. And yet, there's more than enough to tempt the most jaded traveler — from cookery schools for food lovers to climbing, caving, and jungle treks for thrill-seekers and temples galore for those more culturally inclined.                   </p>

Average daily cost: $15 Average accommodation cost: $8 Average daily meals cost: $5

Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia but it still manages to have over 4,000 islands. From the islands of the Mekong Delta to the stunning waterfalls of the interior, Laos is one of the few countries in the world that hasn’t lost its natural beauty to sprawling development. And yet, there's more than enough to tempt the most jaded traveler — from cookery schools for food lovers to climbing, caving, and jungle treks for thrill-seekers and temples galore for those more culturally inclined.

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Santorini airport

Santorini international.

Place: Near Kamari, in the east of the Greek island and 6 kilometres from the capital.  View map

Website: https://www.aeropuertoinfo.com/aeropuertos/santorini-airport/

How to get to the airport: There is only one public bus service that connects the airport with the capital, Fira. There is a taxi rank, although there are also private companies that provide transfers in their own vehicles. Another option is the ferry.

Terminals: The airport is both a civil and military airbase.

Bilbao airport

Place: The municipality of Loiu, 12 kilometres from the capital of Vizcaya  View map

Website: https://www.aena.es/es/bilbao.html

How to get to the city: The bus routes that connect with the airport: 3247, Airport – Zarautz- San Sebastián and Airport- Eibar- Bergara- Arrasate. There is a taxi rank in the arrivals area. By road from Bilbao via the Archanda Tunnels.

Terminals: The airport has a passenger terminal.

FAQs about our cheap Santorini-Bilbao flights

How to get the cheapest santorini-bilbao flight.

You can save on your Santorini-Bilbao plane ticket and get the cheapest flight if you avoid peak season, book in advance and are flexible about dates and times for both your outbound and return flight.

What days of the week are cheapest to fly to Santorini-Bilbao?

To find out which day is the cheapest to fly, just start a search in our cheap flight finder . Tell us where you are flying from, where you want to go and what dates you're thinking of. We'll show you the cheapest flights not only for the date you searched but on surrounding days as well , for both the outbound and return flight, so you can find the best deal. And be sure to look carefully at the different flight options we offer every day: certain times may save you even more on the price of your ticket.

When are the best flight deals to Santorini-Bilbao?

You can get the cheapest flights by travelling outside peak season . Although it depends on the destination, in general Christmas, Easter and school holidays are peak season. Besides, if you're thinking about a weekend getaway, the earlier you book your flight, the better the price.

What day of the week is best for getting a cheap plane ticket to Santorini-Bilbao?

You can find cheap flights any day of the week. The key to finding the best deals is to book early and be flexible. Usually, the earlier you book your plane tickets, the cheaper they will be. Besides, if you have some wiggle room as regards dates and times of flights, you'll be able to choose the cheapest price.

How far in advance should I book a flight to Santorini-Bilbao to get the best deal?

The earlier you book your flights, the better the prices. Prices depend on the remaining seats on the flight and whether the cheapest fares (Economy) are still available or are selling out. So booking in advance is essential to get cheap flights .

Which fare guarantees me the best deal for my flight to Santorini-Bilbao? 

Iberia offers different fares to guarantee the best deal for your travel needs. The Basic fare guarantees you the cheapest flight.

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Useful information if you're flying to Bilbao

Hola Bilbao!

Bilbao is proof that gastronomy is an artform in the Basque Country, as it is one of the places with the most Michelin stars per person in the world. The New Square and its surroundings are full of crowded bars where you can sample the city's famous "pintxos", washed down with "txikitos" of wine. And, if that were not enough, the beaches and spectacular cliffs in Getxo are just over half an hour away on the city's metro. Don't miss our flight deals to Bilbao !

The weather in Bilbao

Events in our cheap flight destinations to bilbao.

Event

07 Mar 2024 - 21 Mar 2024

Event

09 Feb 2024 - 19 May 2024

Quote with the exhibition 'Giovanni Anselmo: Beyond the Horizon'

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

Event

02 Mar 2024 - 30 Mar 2024

16 Feb 2024 - 15 Sep 2024

Signs and objects: Pop art from the Guggenheim Collection

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IMAGES

  1. 10 Best Things To Do in Santorini, Greece [with Suggested Tours]

    cheapest time to visit santorini greece

  2. 25 Best Things to do in Santorini, Greece (2022)

    cheapest time to visit santorini greece

  3. 7 Interesting and Unique Places to Visit While in Santorini

    cheapest time to visit santorini greece

  4. Best Time To Visit Santorini

    cheapest time to visit santorini greece

  5. 14 Things To Do in Santorini, Greece (2024 Travel Guide)

    cheapest time to visit santorini greece

  6. Fira Town, Santorini, Greece. The 2017 Guide

    cheapest time to visit santorini greece

VIDEO

  1. OIA SANTORINI GREECE TRAVEL VLOG

  2. Top 10 Best Greece Places

  3. Week in Greece Vlog

  4. TRAVELING TO SANTORINI GREECE. WATCH THIS BEAUTIFUL PLACE IN GREECE

  5. Rate the view of Santorini #travel #greece

  6. How Much It Cost To Stay In Santorini, Greece

COMMENTS

  1. The Best & Worst Times to Visit Santorini (Updated for 2024)

    The cheapest time to visit Santorini is in the winter months when the hotels are more desperate to fill rooms, and the airlines have empty seats. Unfortunately, flights to Greece will likely always be costly, even in the off-season. But you can save some money on the plane ride, and you can get a hotel or resort booking for a discount.

  2. Best Time to Visit Santorini (in 2024)

    Best Time for beaches, swimming and hot weather (more than 30C during the day): June, July, August, September Best Time for a Santorini honeymoon: June (I'm explaining below why…); Best Time for activities, hiking, wine-tasting, restaurants and mild sunny weather: May, October Best Time for partying, buzz, crowds: July, August, early September 15th of August: massive celebration in Greece ...

  3. Best Times to Visit Santorini

    The best time to visit Santorini is from September to October and April to May when the weather is warm and the crowds are scarce. Like all of the Cyclades, Santorini welcomes the most visitors ...

  4. Best Time To Visit Santorini

    Best time to travel to Santorini for weather - May to September. Best time to visit Santorini to avoid crowds - Not July and August. Cheapest time of year to visit Santorini - Low season October to March. Best time of year for Santorini nightlife - June to September. Pro Tip - Visit Santorini in winter for lower prices and fewer tourists.

  5. Best Time to Visit Santorini

    Average Rainfall: 7mm.) Santorini in June (80% Crowded): June is a hot sunny month and the start of beach season when tourists arrive in large numbers. (Average Max Temperature: 26°C. Average Rainfall: 0.3mm.) July Weather on Santorini (95% Crowded): Hot and sunny. Along with August July is the busiest month on Santorini.

  6. Santorini on a Budget

    Santorini in Spring. Spring is another shoulder season, and an amazing time of year to visit Santorini on a budget. The weather is slowly warming up and ranges from 10-25 C (50-76F) in April and 15-30C (60-86F) in May. There can be occasional rain and fog still at this time of year, especially in early spring.

  7. Best time to visit Santorini

    There's never really a bad time to visit Santorini - just your time. Use this month-by-month guide to make your plans and pick the best season for you. Lonely Planet. Destinations ... Here's how you can visit Greece on a budget. Jun 7, 2023 • 9 min read. Tips & Advice. The best places to go in August 2023. Jun 2, 2023 • 8 min read.

  8. The Best Time to Visit Santorini: A Complete Guide

    Guests arriving in Greece are no longer required to have a valid certification of your vaccination or tests for COVID. One of Santorini's secrets and its special charm is that it's different depending on the month of the year. ... The Cheapest Time of the Year to Visit Santorini. To have a pleasant experience, tourists often seek to avoid ...

  9. Best time to visit Santorini for great weather and deals

    Best for: Honeymoons, weather, fewer crowds. As the summer crowds dwindle, autumn is a great time to be in Santorini as you'll get to enjoy great weather, cheaper prices, and more peace. Temperatures begin to drop to an average of 75°F in September and 69°F in October. As the sea heats up over summertime, you'll still be able to swim—at ...

  10. Best time to visit Santorini Island (Greece)

    Best time to enjoy the beach - September (for warm waters, but bearable sand and lesser crowds) Best time to explore - April, May, October and November (good weather, everything is still open but less crowds) Cheapest months to visit Santorini - December to February is when the prices are really reduced (June to September are the most ...

  11. Cheapest Time To Go To Greece

    Cheapest time to travel to Greece and the Greek islands. Greece can be a very affordable country. Yet, some people return from their Greek holiday having spent much more than they expected. ... By comparison, if you visit Santorini in March, April or October, you could easily find good value rooms. Prices drop further in winter, which is the ...

  12. The Best Time to Visit Santorini

    The peak tourist season in Santorini is from June to August. During this time, the island is crowded with tourists, and everything is pricier. The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are generally considered the best times to visit Santorini. The peak summer months can get extremely hot, with temperatures soaring above 30°C (86°F).

  13. Cost of a Trip to Santorini Island, GR & the Cheapest Time to Visit

    Luxury Couple's Trip. The high-end price for a couple to visit Santorini Island for a week is $4,188-$25,928 ($598-$3,704 per day). Food, Travel, and Sightseeing: $130 to $416 per day for two people's daily expenses. Flights: $2,396 to $18,684 for first class. Lodging: $147 to $157 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room. or $380 to $722 per night for a preferred vacation rental

  14. Cost of a Trip to Santorini, GR & the Cheapest Time to Visit Santorini

    The average price of a 7-day trip to Santorini is $4,004 for a solo traveler, $7,191 for a couple, and $13,481 for a family of 4. Santorini hotels range from $58 to $238 per night with an average of $137, while most vacation rentals will cost $190 to $1060 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Nikos Kazantzakis ...

  15. Best Time to Visit Greece: Month-by-Month Guide (2024)

    Best Months to Visit Greece. Overall, the best months to visit Greece are anywhere between the end of April and the beginning of November. April is when the good weather starts to come out in Greece and by the time May hits, the sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and the water is starting to warm up.

  16. These Are the Best Times to Visit Greece

    Santorini, Greece. (Photo by Cosmic Timetraveler/Unsplash) The Best Times to Visit Other Islands. Whether it's Corfu in the Ionian Islands, Rhodes and Patmos in the Dodecanese archipelago, Paros and the other islands that make up the Cyclades or Crete, the best time of year for an island visit is generally going to be in June, July or September.

  17. When is the Best Time to Visit Santorini?

    Want to know the best time to visit Santorini? ... making it the cheapest time to travel. Santorini's Most Popular Annual Events. Take a break from the beach or poolside and head to one of these amazing events or festivals to soak up some of Santorini's culture. Orthodox Easter (April) Easter is the most important public event in Greece and ...

  18. Best Time to Visit Greece and the greek islands

    The best month of the year to travel to Greece and to the greek islands is June and September. This is usually called the shoulder season in Greece, while July and August is the peak season (or high season). During these 2 months, you will get warm summer weather (between 20-35 degrees Celsius or 70-95 degrees Fahrenheit) but you will also get ...

  19. How to Get to Santorini, Greece

    Step 1: Get to Athens - there are many cheap flights from western Europe.; Step 2: Buy ferry ticket - book tickets online or buy at a travel agent in Athens or at the ferry port.; Step 3: Take the metro (20 to 30 minutes) or taxi (30 to 40 minutes) to the Piraeus ferry port.Most ferries leave in the morning, plan to arrive 1 hour in advance. Step 4: Enjoy the ride to Santorini.

  20. Best Time to Go to Santorini Greece: Comparing the Seasons

    Depending on what your interests are and what you are looking to enjoy, the best time to go to Santorini is between May and October. If you are looking to save cost, it is better to travel to Santorini during the low season. Hotels, flights and car rentals are cheaper and do not require booking months ahead. When you are planning your 2 days in ...

  21. Best Time to Visit Greece

    July. This is the best time of the year to travel to Santorini as it is the high season. In fact, July is the busiest month here, and with good reason. Expect high temperatures that reach up to 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius). Aside from that, you will see hordes of tourists arriving in Santorini this month.

  22. BEST TIME TO VISIT SANTORINI {2024} ️

    Visiting Santorini Greece in May is a great time to explore this beautiful island. The weather is still perfect and the sun is still out during the day. However, it is not quite as warm as the peak summer months. This is when the island is most popular and most tourists arrive. It's also a good time to visit Santorini because the airfare is ...

  23. Best Time to Visit Greece, Santorini: Seasons and Activities

    However, the cheapest time to travel to Santorini is the winter months. During this time, accommodation is more affordable and easier to find, and even plane tickets often have discounts to travel in the off-season. ... The best time to travel to Greece, Santorini, can depend on several factors. However, generally, the months from March to ...

  24. Where to Stay in Santorini: Our 2024 Guide to The Best Places

    It's one of the cheapest options in this amazing town, and its location is pretty good for exploring the island. ... Best Time to Visit Santorini. ... The Best Places to Visit in Santorini, Greece; 17 Best Cities in Greece To Visit; The Best Places to Visit in Greece; Facebook; Twitter; Pinterest; Travel Planning Resources.

  25. Taking 8-Hour Ferry From Athens to Santorini in Greece for $50, Review

    I live in Athens, Greece, and often take ferries to explore the Greek Islands. I recently booked an economy-class ticket on a Blue Star ferry from Athens to Santorini for 45 euros, or about $50 ...

  26. Europe's 'Island of Colours' is the cheaper Santorini ...

    Infamous for its blue-topped buildings and white stone walls, Santorini is an immensely popular destination for those looking to sample the Greek island life. But with more than 2.5 million ...

  27. The 10 Cheapest Countries to Visit

    Average daily cost: $131 Average accommodation cost: $93 Average daily meals cost: $34. From idyllic beaches to world-renowned historical sites, Greece is one of Europe's top summer destinations ...

  28. Cheap flights from Santorini to Bilbao

    Bilbao, where living well is an art that people participate in every day. Reserve one of our flights to Bilbao to discover this beautiful city in northern Spain. Visit the Guggenheim Museum, Euskalduna Palace, the underground stations designed by Norman Foster, the Isozaki and Pelli towers, the Zubizuri bridge designed by Calatrava or new cultural hubs like the Azkuna Zentroa designed by ...