Santorini Holidays 2024/2025

Beaches & Resorts In Santorini

While villages like Oia and Fira steal the spotlight, quieter gems like Pyrgos, Megalochori, and Emborio showcase traditional Cycladic charm. These villages are less touristy and perfect for travellers who want to experience a more authentic Santorini holiday.

Oia

Oia, perched on the northern tip of Santorini, is the island's crown jewel, celebrated for its mesmerising sunsets and elegant atmosphere. This charming village is a haven for couples, with its whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and narrow cobbled streets that lead to breathtaking viewpoints. Luxury boutique hotels line the caldera's edge, offering private terraces and infinity pools where you can relax while watching the sun sink into the Aegean Sea. Oia also features art galleries, stylish boutiques, and gourmet restaurants serving local Greek cuisine.

Fira

Fira, Santorini's vibrant capital, is a lively hub that perfectly balances natural beauty with modern comforts. Overlooking the iconic caldera, Fira offers incredible panoramic views, making it a popular base for travellers. During the day, visitors can explore its bustling streets filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and charming cafes. As the sun sets, Fira transforms into the island's nightlife epicentre, with bars and clubs offering music and dancing late into the night.

Kamari & Perissa

Kamari and Perissa, two neighbouring coastal towns on the southeastern side of Santorini, are perfect for beach lovers seeking relaxation and fun. Known for their unique black sand beaches, formed by the island's volcanic history, these resorts offer a more laid-back alternative to the caldera towns. Kamari features a lively promenade lined with tavernas, beach bars, and shops, ideal for families and sun-seekers. Perissa and Perissa Beach, slightly quieter, has a relaxed atmosphere with excellent beachside dining options and water sports like paddleboarding and snorkelling.

Top Things To Do In Marmaris

Hike From Fira To Oia

One of the most popular activities for active Santorini holidays is the scenic hike between Fira and Oia. The 10km trail takes approximately 3-4 hours to complete and offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the caldera, cliffs, and Aegean Sea. Along the way, you'll pass charming villages like Imerovigli and Skaros Rock, ideal for photo opportunities. Start early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.

Visit The Akrotiri Ruins

History enthusiasts will love exploring the Akrotiri Ruins, an ancient Minoan settlement buried by volcanic ash around 1600 BC. Often referred to as the "Pompeii of the Aegean" Akrotiri features well-preserved buildings, pottery, and frescoes that provide a fascinating glimpse into life on Santorini thousands of years ago. Guided tours are available to help you fully appreciate this archaeological treasure.

Sailing Trips

Experience Santorini from the water with a sailing trip of the caldera. Many tours include stops at the volcanic islands of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni, where you can hike to volcanic craters or swim in natural hot springs. Some boat trips also offer snorkelling, onboard meals, and sunset views, creating a truly unforgettable experience. Private and group options are available to suit all budgets.

Watch The Sunset Over Oia

Santorini's sunsets are legendary, and there's no better place to see them than Oia. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into shades of pink, orange, and gold, casting a magical glow over the whitewashed buildings. To avoid the crowds, consider booking a sunset cruise or finding a quieter spot like the Byzantine Castle ruins or Ammoudi Bay.

Volcano & Hot Springs Tour

Discover the volcanic origins of Santorini with a tour to Nea Kameni, where you can hike to the crater and witness the volcanic landscape up close. Afterwards, visit Palea Kameni to bathe in its therapeutic hot springs, known for their warm, mineral-rich waters.

Where To Stay In Santorini

Santorini offers a variety of accommodation options, each catering to different travel styles and budgets. For luxury and romance, Oia is the top choice, renowned for its stunning sunsets, boutique hotels like Canaves Oia Suites and Katikies Hotel, and charming atmosphere. For those seeking a vibrant experience, Fira, the island's bustling capital, provides a mix of nightlife, shopping, and caldera views. Hotels such as Panorama Boutique Hotel and Aressana Spa Hotel make it a great base for exploring Santorini, with easy access to restaurants and transportation. Meanwhile, Imerovigli offers a quieter, romantic alternative with panoramic views and boutique stays like Grace Hotel Santorini and Astra Suites.

For beach lovers, Kamari and Perissa provide a laid-back vibe with their unique black sand beaches and family-friendly hotels like Kamari Beach Hotel and Aegean Plaza Hotel. These areas are perfect for travellers seeking relaxation without the crowds of the caldera towns. If you prefer a more traditional experience, villages like Pyrgos and Megalochori showcase authentic Greek charm, offering peaceful retreats and budget-friendly options.

Self catering holidays in Santorini are a popular option because it gives you the opportunity to head out and try all the fantastic local Greek tavernas and restaurants on offer. Half board and all inclusive options aren't as common but are still available if you prefer not to worry about paying for anything extra while once you're there. Some of the boutique hotels are also adult only, especially the iconic ones on the hills with views. These can offer a break from kids with a more grown up stay.

Practical Information

Getting Around

Santorini's public buses are affordable and connect key towns like Fira, Oia, and Kamari. Taxis are available but can be expensive during peak season. For flexibility, renting a car is a great option for exploring hidden villages and remote beaches.

Weather & Best Time To Visit

Santorini enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit is usually early or late summer in April, May, September and October, when the weather is warm and sunny and there are often fewer tourists. During July and August the island is bustling, with vibrant nightlife, fully open attractions, and guaranteed sunny days. However, prices are higher, and crowds are significant.