Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a beautiful island in Greece that is an active volcano. It's one of the most popular Greek islands famous for Cycladic houses and blue top churches, giving fairytale vibes. We love Santorini and highly recommend visiting one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Here's our guide on how to be a tourist in Santorini, Greece.

Where to stay

Oia is a popular village to stay in Santorini. It's the most picturesque village known for sunsets and features some of the nicest hotels on the island. Fira is another good area to stay in Santorini. Since Fira is a transportation hub, staying here or in the neighbor town Firostefani is ideal for catching the local bus. This area is also closer to the airport.

Getting around

Uber is available in Santorini, but you will get connected with a local taxi driver instead of traditional Uber drivers. You can also call a taxi if you see one, but they are considered somewhat scarce in Santorini.

Renting a car isn't necessary as the island is fairly small and there is a good public bus system in place. Any bus stop will sell tickets which only cost a couple of euros. All buses lead to Fira, where you can transfer buses to other parts of the island. Buses usually depart every 30-60 minutes, so be sure to check the schedule in advance.

You can reserve an airport transfer in advance here.

Cruise port

Cruise ships anchor off the coast and tender cruise ship passengers to the bottom of Fira. From there, you walk up the stairs, take a cable car, or ride a donkey up to the top. The stairs take around 20-30 minutes to climb to the top. The cable car only takes a few minutes, but costs a couple of euros. You can buy single or round trip tickets upon arrival. If you choose to take a donkey up to the top, just start walking towards the stairs until you find someone offering donkey rides. The price is usually negotiable, but they will accept cash only.

On your way back down to the bottom of Fira, allow yourself plenty of extra time. Santorini is known to be very windy and the cable car often closes when the weather is too windy. If this happens on your way back to the cruise ship, you'll have to walk down the stairs or hop on a donkey, both of which take longer than the cable car.

If you are taking a tour, be sure to check if they pick you up at the top or bottom of Fira. For cruise passengers, a private tour is often the best way to maximize your time in Santorini.

Things to do

Catamaran cruise

The best way to experience Santorini is from the ocean. You can sail around the island and get amazing views and snorkel at the red beach, white beach, and mesa pigadia beach. You'll even make a stop at palea kameni hot springs and nea kameni, both areas of the active volcano. Be careful of what you wear when swimming in the hot springs. Since it is still an active volcano, it can change the color of your clothes or jewelry.

Sea kayak

Kayaking is a fun and challenging way to see the waters of Santorini. Stops will be made to snorkel and kayak through sea caves. This is truly a once in a lifetime excursion that should not be missed.

Sunset cruise

Santorini is known for its beautiful sunsets. This cruise provides amazing views of all the popular beaches and hot springs around Santorini, and then spends sunset below the clifftop village of Oia. If the weather is too windy, the catamarans are unable to sail and might cancel. Try to book this excursion at the beginning of your vacation in Santorini so you have time to reschedule in case needed.

ATV tour

An ATV tour provides a unique perspective of Santorini where you'll get to see windmills, beaches, and the Venetian castle with a professional guide in a small group. It also includes snacks and wine samples making it a great value for the price.

Hike Fira to Oia trail

The hike from Fira to Oia is around ten kilometers, or six miles. It's a fairly easy hike with a paved path. The hike can be done in either direction, but is easier if you start in Fira because it is mostly downhill this direction. This hike features stunning views and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Santorini.

There is a detour option to Skaros rock which would add around an hour to the hike. To take the detour, you'll have to keep left at the fork near Agios Georgios Church towards Skaros rock. The benefit of going this route are spectacular views of Skaros rock and the Church of Christ, and Imerovigli.

Spend time in Oia

Oia is situated cliffside on the north west edge of Santorini. It is a picturesque village of Cycladic homes and the famous blue domes. Walking around Oia, you'll find lots of shopping, restaurants, and alleyways to explore. Oia is considered the perfect sunset spot. Many people will watch from Oia castle, but it gets very crowded. Another great option is finding a restaurant with a view to experience sunset while enjoying a Greek meal.

E-bike tour

For adventure enthusiasts, an e-bike tour around Santorini is the perfect way to explore vineyards, castles, and sandy beaches with an educational tour guide. All equipment, snacks, and transportation is included in the price of the tour, so there's nothing for you to worry about except having fun.

Fishing tour

Taking a fishing tour is unlike any other activity in Santorini. You can participate or just watch as fish, shrimp, and octopus are caught using traditional fishing methods. The tour will pass by the beautiful beaches of Santorini providing unparalleled views. It even includes lunch featuring the catch of the day. If fishing is your passion, this is truly an unforgettable experience.

Things to know

Currency

The official currency of Greece is the euro. Most places in Santorini accept credit card, but you should always have a small amount of cash on you.

Language

Greek is the official language of Greece. However, almost everyone speaks English in Santorini.

Plugs

Greece uses plug type F. You can buy an international plug adapter here. 

Safety

Greece is a safe country to visit. However, there are incidents such as theft, assault, and drugs. It is important to exercise caution especially as a tourist, but it is overall a safe country that you can feel comfortable walking around at any time of day.

The tap water is safe to drink in Greece.

Tipping

It is common to tip in restaurants 10-15%, but is not required. For hotel staff and concierge, a couple of euros is appropriate. In taxis, it is common to round up. However, nobody will be offended if you choose not to tip in Greece.

Sim card

You can get reasonably priced digital sim cards for your phone. There are several apps available for download for you to purchase and install in advance. As soon as you land, you can activate the sim card.

Visa

US citizens need a valid passport, but do not need a visa to enter Greece as a tourist if they plan on staying 90 days or less.

Bargaining

Bargaining in stores is common in Greece. Sometimes it's easier to bargain with cash, or if you are buying multiple items you can bargain a better deal. 

We hope you enjoyed our guide on how to be a tourist in Santorini, Greece. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions.

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