Santorini fascinates. This Greek island of 83km² and 15,000 inhabitants, located in the Cyclades archipelago, is known worldwide. It attracts millions of tourists every year.
A volcanic island
Originally, Santorini was called “Stronghyle”, which means “round”, because of its circular shape. It was prosperous and a brilliant civilization had developed there (perhaps the legendary Atlantis ?). Then, around 1600 BC, the volcano awoke and caused the greatest cataclysm of antiquity. An explosion of unparalleled violence pulverized the island, whose center collapsed, forming only a crescent moon. A tidal wave submerged the region to the Cretan coast and fragments of rock were found as far as Egypt.
Volcanic activity is still present today, as evidenced by the sulfur vapors that escape from the islet of Nea Kameni. The island has recently experienced tremors of varying intensity. In 1956, a violent earthquake killed about fifty people and injured many others. The island was then abandoned before experiencing a new prosperity in the early 1970s thanks to tourism. Today, the activity of the volcano is closely monitored in order to prevent any new disaster.
We advise you to go and see the volcano. It is really worth it. For example, we found this day trip which has the advantage of being not too expensive. In addition, your reservation can be completely cancelled without charge up to 24 hours before departure.
Santorini: the star of the Cyclades
Santorini has beautiful villages, typical Cycladic architecture with small white houses and blue domed churches (which have become one of the symbols of Greece), impressive landscapes, transparent waters. And also a major archeological site, superb hikes, breathtaking panoramas, popular wineries, renowned gastronomy and a lively nightlife… Nevertheless, if many travelers are amazed, others come back disappointed. Some people even regret that the island has become a kind of “Disneyland” for travelers from all over the world.
So what about it? Is Santorini a chic, expensive and (too) touristy island? Or a magical and breathtaking island? Well, actually, a little bit of everything at once. Yes, it is true, the crowd is dense for an island of this size and the prices charged by hotels and restaurants can reach indecent heights. Nevertheless, Santorini is also absolutely beautiful and is one of the sites to be seen at least once in a lifetime.
In short, if you are looking for authenticity, simplicity and rest, if you want to discover the wild Greece and off the beaten track, pass your way. On the other hand, if you want to discover a spectacular island, which resembles no other, and accept in return the presence of many tourists at your side, armed with their cameras and selfie sticks, go for it! Because Santorini is grandiose and offers a unique natural spectacle!
Where to stay in Santorini ?
We can only advise you to stay on the caldera because it is undoubtedly a magical experience. On the other hand, you should know that the prices are particularly high. Here is a selection of hotels in Imerovigli(here), Fira(here) and Oia(here).
Among many others, we recommend the following hotels:
- Kapari Natural Resort An eco-lodge ideally located in Imerovigli, a pure luxury, a breathtaking view on the caldera
- Grace Santorini Santorini: also in Imerovigli, perched at 300 meters high, it offers a fantastic view of the caldera.
- Mystic In Oia, a minimalist style with a hippie feel
- Perivolas troglodytic houses carved into the cliffs, with an incredible view
- We love the Thermes Luxury Villas And Spa, in Megalochori: incredible view, houses with private pool, quiet location
You will also find a very large choice of accommodation on Airbnb website .
Find also our practical advice for accommodation in Santorini in this article.
Santorini in practice
It is best to avoid visiting the island in July and August because it is then overcrowded. The best periods to discover Santorini are probably April-May and September-October because the weather is nice, not too hot and there are fewer people than in summer. You can also choose to go completely out of season, in November or February for example. You can then enjoy the spectacular scenery in peace… but be aware that most restaurants and stores may be closed and it may be cold due to the wind.
Getting to Santorini:
- By plane : several airlines offer direct flights from Athens, Paris or other provincial cities. We often use the Ulysses website to find the cheapest flights.
- By ferry : the arrival is spectacular! There are daily connections with the port of Piraeus (between 4 and 7 hours of crossing depending on the boat and the wind strength). There are also connections with many islands (Ios, Naxos, Paros, Mykonos, Folegandros, Milos, Syros, Crete, Rhodes). Information and online reservations on the Ferry Hopper website . This site is very practical because it allows you to compare the offers of the different shipping companies in the blink of an eye (and also offers an easy to use interface). Most importantly, it does not charge commissions or hidden fees.
Getting around the island:
- the bus network works well. But be aware that the posted timetables are not always very reliable and that in high season, the buses are crowded
- there are many cabs, rather expensive (about 15€ Fira – Oia, 18€ Fira – Akrotiri). We recommend that you book your cab before you arrive at the airport. The company Welcome PickUps is serious and offers a good service at competitive rates.
- we recommend that you rent a vehicle in order to be free to discover all the corners of Santorini at your own pace. The road network is of good quality but you have to be careful because there are a lot of cars, quads and scooters and the driving is somewhat random. For a car, count about 35€/day. The Rental Cars website lists the different rental companies, making it easy to compare prices and choose the best deal.
To make an excursion on the volcano or on a catamaran
To rent a boat in Santorini, you can use the services of Click and Boat which offers sailboats, motorboats or catamarans for rent on the island of Santorini.
Another solution is to book an excursion. This is one of the musts of Santorini!
To visit the island by electric bike
Baja Bikes offers an original way to visit the island of Santorini by electric bike. With its 3 1/2 hours guided tour in English, discover the heart of Santorini: Emporio and its medieval castle, view of the caldera, cheese or wine tasting in Megalochori, center of the island…
For more information
What to do? What to see in Santorini ? We tell you everything here
Laure M.
