Where to Stay in Santorini, Greece: The Best Places for Every Budget
Join us in Santorini, where caves are turned into luxury hotels and infinity pools are mandatory. Greece’s bucket-list island is waiting for you with our where to stay in Santorini guide.
Blue-domed white buildings, beguiling sunsets, and gorgeous infinity pools, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the world-famous caldera: Greece’s most famous island needs no introduction.
Given Santorini’s popularity, it’s not hard to find a hotel. Heck, a quick search on Booking.com will provide endless results. But what is hard to find is good accommodation in Santorini. The type of accommodation you’ll walk away from with a smile on your face, and experiences to match.
As two people who’ve experienced the highs and lows of Santorini accommodation (one lovely family-run hotel in Imerovigli, and two failed ‘hotel’ experiences in Fira, run by what we can only describe as the Mafia), we can safely say that it’s the wild west out there, and not much can adequately reduce the stress involved in finding that perfect hotel for your holiday.
That’s where our guide on where to stay in Santorini comes in. Personally curated, this guide showcases the best hotels, villas and guesthouses in Santorini for each budget, as well as the best areas to stay on the Island.
We’ve analysed the best hotels on the island, and found what we deem to be best, most affordable, and well-positioned along with our own personal recommendations too. So if you’re after the perfect Santorini experience, with the hotel to match, read on and book away. You won’t be disappointed.
PS. Explore the best of Santorini with our detailed destination guides, including our curated travel guide, the best things to do on Santorini, a curated guide to Oia, Santorini, our guide to hiking Skaros Rock, how and where to find the best Santorini sunsets, and what to see in Ammoudi Bay.
Love our photos? They were all edited using our Europe Preset Pack, which you can purchase here!
WHERE TO
STAY IN
SANTORINI
BEST AREA TO STAY | Imerovigli
OUR TOP PICK | Kozmo Luxury Hotel & Spa
BEST VALUE | Maverick City Lodge
BOUTIQUE BEAUTY | Hotel Collect
BEST HOSTEL | Hive Hostel
THE BEST AREA TO STAY IN SANTORINI
#1 IMEROVIGLI
Forget Fira and Oia, the clifftop town of Imerovigli is the best area to stay in Santorini by far.
It's the highest of the caldera towns, with sweeping views over the caldera, Skaros Rock, and endless sea make for some of the best sunset-watching on the island. But its real charm is in its peace and quiet, a marked difference from the atmosphere of the other main caldera towns that are a constant hive of activity.
Many of the more exclusive boutique stays on Santorini are actually here in Imerovigli, particularly on the Fira-Oia hike leading out of the village.
But for those without endless pockets of cash, the good news is there are also plenty of lovely stays here for a fraction of the price tag too.
BOOK | Search and book Imerovigli accommodation
#2 OIA
Oia is Santorini’s most beautiful town, with a myriad of colourful laneways, outrageous views, world-class food and wine, excellent shopping, and local adventures.
It’s also home to the most exceptional, and exclusive hotels in Santorini, many of which come with personal plunge pools, epic sunset views and outstanding restaurants/bars.
Oia is the place to be, and be seen, and has a price point to match - so if you’re after that once-in-a-lifetime experience, look no further.
READ MORE | Our curated guide to Oia, Santorini
BOOK | Search and book Oia accommodation
#3 FIRA
Fira is the island's capital, and where you'll find the biggest array of hotels, shops, and restaurants. It's also where most of the cruise ship crowds land, and where many of the public transport links leave from.
Look, a lot of people love Fira and find it beautiful, and that’s totally fine. We’re just not those people, and you certainly aren’t going to find any glowing reviews of it here.
That being said, Fira is affordable, with the cheapest accommodation on the island found here. If you’re on a budget, look to base yourself here (although this advice comes with a warning that some of Fira’s accommodation seems to be managed by a sort of unscrupulous hotel Mafia, so choose very carefully) and explore beyond
BOOK | Search and book Fira accommodation
#4 MEGALOCHORI & PYRGOS
In so many places, Santorini feels like an island that exists solely for tourists.
But Megalochori & Pyrgos are different - two rustic, traditional villages that are worlds away from the hustle and bustle of Oia and Fira.
Here, the quiet life is enjoyed, and while the accommodation options are more limited, they’re still exceptional and feel a little more exclusive.
READ MORE | Our curated guide to Megalochori
BOOK | Search and book Megalochori accommodation
#5 THE BEACHES
Honestly, even Santorini's locals will tell you that most of their beaches aren't anything special; most can be skipped entirely during your stay in favour of hanging by your hotel's pool or by booking a sailing trip (like Santorini Sailing, above!).
That said, if you're still keen to get some beach time on Santorini and want to base yourself away from the masses in Oia or Fira, the south eastern beaches are a good option.
Filled with sprawling resorts which large pools, there’s definitely an accommodation option to suit your needs.
BOOK | Search and book Perissa accommodation
OIA \ WHERE TO STAY ON SANTORINI
THE SAINT HOTEL // LUXURY
If you’ve ever wanted to experience life as a Greek deity, The Saint is the place that promises to make those dreams come true.
The indulgence level here is truly ethereal.
Think opulently furnished whitewashed rooms carved into the cliffs of Oia. Private plunge pools overlooking the caldera. Luxury experiences like yachting in the caldera, sightseeing in a chauffeured Bentley, degustation dinners, and breakfast on your private balcony.
Of course, heavenly accommodation in Santorini doesn’t come cheap – but some experiences are worth a little splurge.
THE DETAILS
Where | Oia, Santorini
BOOK | The Saint Hotel Oia
BLUE DOMES & BOUGAINVILLEA // LUXURY
Imagine a group of your best mates relaxing in a private plunge pool high above the glittering Aegean Sea, watching the best sunset of your lives, while a personal chef prepares a Greek feast.
Blue Domes & Bougainvillea is a private paradise that sleeps six (at a squeeze). It has all the amenities for an unforgettable group getaway: two big rooms, two bathrooms, a full kitchen, characteristic volcanic stone features amidst whitewashed…well, everything.
Perched next to Imerovigli village, our pick for the best area to stay in Santorini, Blue Domes & Bougainvillea is the ideal mix of cosy and decadent.
THE DETAILS
Where | Oia, Santorini
BOOK | Blue Domes & Bougainvillea
KASTRO OIA HOUSES // MID-RANGE
Santorini sees a lot of tourists who try to capture the perfect Insta shot of whitewashed houses tumbling towards a gorgeous sunset. If you know the picture we’re talking about, you already know Kastro Oia Houses.
The Cycladic cave-like villas are quirky, comfy and compact. There’s a good blend of traditional inspiration and modern decoration. Plus, most suites have a jacuzzi, and the ocean views over Ammoudi Bay are indescribable.
THE DETAILS
Where | Oia, Santorini
BOOK | Kastro Oia Houses
MR & MRS WHITE SANTORINI // MID-RANGE
If you’re wondering where to stay in Santorini that offers a relaxing, switch-your-brain-off-and-enjoy-the-view escape, Mr & Mrs White is the place.
Mr & Mrs White is more in line with what you’d expect from a luxury chain hotel: the rooms are minimalist and modern, with premium amenities and a long list of mod-cons that make relaxation non-negotiable.
Our tip? Spend the day by the pool soaking in the Santorini sunshine with a cocktail in one hand and a good book in the other.
THE DETAILS
Where | Oia, Santorini
BOOK | Mr & Mrs White
AETHRIO SUNSET VILLAGE // BUDGET
Finding budget-friendly accommodation in Santorini can be tricky. Aethrio caters more to individual travellers and couples on a budget wanting to stay in the heart of Oia, a short distance from the main square.
But the private 2,000sqm hotel is a long way from being cheap. We’re still in one of the best areas of Santorini!
Aethrio’s assortment of studios, suites and family rooms are spacious and very comfortable. Of course, you’ll still get those famous sunset views, albeit from a bit further back than the luxury hotels.
THE DETAILS
Where | Oia, Santorini
BOOK | Aethrio Sunset Village
VOLCANIC ARC SUITES // BUDGET
Everything about Volcanic Arc Suites, which had just opened when we visited Santorini in 2020, exudes laid-back luxury. The three private suites are decked out with super comfy eco-inspired furnishings, air conditioning (a blessing in summer), and breakfast served in a picnic basket.
Volcanic Arc Suites is a little further from Oia than some of the more insta-famous hotels. But for the price of a 20-minute walk, you get to relax away from the chaotic crowds.
And don’t worry, you’ll still see the gorgeous caldera sunset from the property’s private pool.
THE DETAILS
Where | Oia, Santorini
BOOK | Volcanic Arc Suites
IMEROVIGLI | WHERE TO STAY IN SANTORINI
KAPARI NATURAL RESORT // LUXURY
Kapari’s reputation leaves the boutique eco-hotel with big shoes to fill. Kapari received gushing reviews in The Telegraph and Vogue and is one of two European properties listed in National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World.
Without a doubt, Kapari is one of Santorini’s best hotels. The 14 private units are nestled among a 300-year-old Cycladic cave complex in our favourite Santorini village, Imerovigli.
There’s a gourmet restaurant, a (disappointingly small) pool overlooking the caldera, and a whole bunch of well-hidden modern comforts added in a recent renovation.
But does Kapari live up to the hype? Unless you have deep pockets, we’d recommend staying somewhere that prioritises comfort over prestige.
THE DETAILS
Where | Imerovigli, Santorini
BOOK | Kapari Natural Resort
DIVINE CAVE EXPERIENCE // LUXURY
Divine. Cave. Experience.
We don’t really need to add much, to be honest. This hotel is so whimsically beautiful that it’s borderline ridiculous. Throughout the 10 suites sculpted directly into Santorini’s caldera, every detail is more enchanting than the last.
At least pass by on the Fira to Oia walk. Look wistfully up at the private jacuzzies overlooking the caldera, and think about waking up those plush beds in impeccably decorated cave suites.
Granted, staying at Divine Cave Experience will almost certainly drain your savings account. But wow, it would be worth the splurge.
THE DETAILS
Where | Imerovigli, Santorini
BOOK | Divine Cave Experience
PREKAS APARTMENTS // MID-RANGE
One of the best things about Imerovigli, our pick for the best area to stay in Santorini, is escaping the heaving crowds and exorbitant prices of Fira/Thera.
That’s exactly what Prekas Apartments offers. While you’re not going to be blown away by luxury, there are seven unpretentious private apartments with space for 1-6 people in a classic Cycladic cave setting.
The views, however, are worth a million bucks. Prekas sits high above Skara Rock, looking out to the caldera encircling the bluest sea we’ve seen in a while, with uninterrupted sunset vistas.
THE DETAILS
Where | Imerovigli, Santorini
BOOK | Prekas Apartments
SEVEN SUITES // MID-RANGE
Alliterative genius aside, Seven Suites Santorini is simple yet sublime (sorry).
We always enjoy finding places that feel more like home than a hotel. So although we probably wouldn’t choose to live on Santorini if we had our pick of the Cyclades, Seven Suites did have that comforting feeling of coming home.
The owner, Stefanos, has done an outstanding job balancing the sculpted, whitewashed aesthetic that attracts boatloads of tourists to Santorini with modern design touches to create warm and welcoming spaces.
THE DETAILS
Where | Imerovigli, Santorini
BOOK | Seven Suites Santorini
REMEZZO VILLAS // BUDGET
We stayed at Remezzo Villas, once a traditional vineyard and cellar from the 1800s transformed into a beautiful family-run boutique hotel.
While the hotel itself was beautiful, a mix of whitewashed buildings and rustic pastel converted barns and cellars, our favourite pastime was sitting on the terrace and taking in the 180-degree panoramic views of the island’s wild volcanic coastlines and the magical sunset that seemed to drop into the sea right in front of us.
THE DETAILS
Where | Imerovigli, Santorini
BOOK | Remezzo Villas
AYOBA SANTORINI // BUDGET
“Ayoba” is a feel-good word originating in South Africa. Depending on where it’s used, it means “cool/ok” or “will be”. On Santorini, it means whatever you want, as long as the intention is to feel good.
That’s the concept behind the three-room property in the heart of Imerovigli. The double studio, 4-person suite and family home are unfussy, authentic and inexpensive (by Santorini accommodation standards).
There’s a small rooftop pool and a breakfast that gets rave reviews, plus the standard sublime sunsets behind the caldera.
THE DETAILS
Where | Imerovigli, Santorini
BOOK| Ayoba Santorini
FIRA | WHERE TO STAY IN SANTORINI
LIMESTONE FIRA // LUXURY
Limestone deserves its reputation as Fira’s top-rated hotel. It’s everything you could want in a luxury Santorini stay: four independent cave suites that respect the island’s heritage, unspoiled sunset views from a rooftop terrace, and privacy away from the crowds.
Limestone Fira is the next evolution of a 1925 mansion excavated from the rock in the bioclimatic yposkafo style. The result is a tranquil haven away from Fira’s bustling crowds, dedicated to pure sensual indulgence.
THE DETAILS
Where | Fira, Santorini
BOOK | Limestone Fira
KATIKIES GARDEN SANTORINI // LUXURY
In case you’re getting bored of cave suites and private jacuzzies (like that’s possible), Katikies Garden offers something unique among Santorini’s luxury accommodation options.
The self-styled “contemporary refuge” is best described as a boutique hotel housed in a converted monastery in the heart of Fira, with the best bits of both worlds.
Across the hotel’s 40 suites, you’ll see Cycladic heritage melded with modern sophistication. Katikies Garden hasn’t completely abandoned the Santorini vibe. It’s just straightened a few curves, added plush cushions and attached modern fixtures and fittings.
THE DETAILS
Where | Fira, Santorini
BOOK | Katikies Garden
AIGIALOS LUXURY TRADITIONAL SETTLEMENT // MID-RANGE
From the iconic pink bougainvillea hanging over the front gate to the red volcanic rock walls and sprawling sea views, Aigialos Luxury Traditional Settlement is every bit what you’d expect from a hotel bearing its name.
There is a touch too much 2000’s opulence in the decorations for our tastes (read: lots of shiny marble and more than one gilded mirror).
But you can’t argue with the location, considering how affordable Aigialos is compared to similar upscale options.
THE DETAILS
Where | Fira, Santorini
PALMARIVA VILLAS // MID-RANGE
Wonderful things can happen when a hotel leans into the peculiarities of its surroundings. Palmariva Villas isn’t trying to smooth over Santorini’s textures or stand out among Fira’s jumbled architecture.
Instead, the ten independent villas with private hot tubs focus on creating an immersive experience. We also like that you can choose your specific villa (Danai is our favourite), with options for couples, families and groups.
Palmariva will imprint a memory of Santorini as unique as the villa you choose for your stay.
THE DETAILS
Where | Fira, Santorini
BOOK | Palmariva Villas
SAN GIORGIO // BUDGET
The newly renovated San Giorgio property packs a lot of elegance into a compact (and affordable) boutique hotel. Each of the six rooms is elegantly appointed with a tasteful mixture of wood and brushed concrete.
There’s the occasional reminder that Santorini is a volcanic island in feature rock walls and stone basins. But overall, San Giorgio strays the furthest from the light, white, laid-back aesthetic you expect from Santorini accommodation.
We’ll leave it to you to decide whether that’s refreshing or disappointing.
THE DETAILS
Where | Fira, Santorini
BOOK | San Giorgio
BEDSPOT HOSTEL // BUDGET
Of the half-dozen or so hostels on Santorini, Bedspot stands out for a few reasons. Firstly, it’s in the heart of Fira (aka the busiest area on Santorini).
Secondly, the dorm rooms are much more comfortable than the average budget backpackers. And finally, there are private rooms for budget-conscious couples (or solo travellers able to splash a bit of cash).
As far as boutique hostels go, Bedspot ticks all the boxes for a short, social stay in Santorini.
THE DETAILS
Where | Fira, Santorini
BOOK | Bedspot Hostel
MEGALOCHORI + PYRGOS | WHERE TO STAY IN SANTORINI
VEDEMA MEGALOCHORI // LUXURY
Built around a 400-year-old vineyard in the medieval town of Megalochori, Vedema offers a little more authenticity than other luxury Santorini hotels.
The 59 suites, villas and handcrafted houses create something like a Greek village overlooking the Aegean sea.
As well as swanky rooms with private balconies and jacuzzies, Vedema has all the epicurean delights and premium experiences you’d expect from a 5-star Marriot hotel on Santorini.
THE DETAILS
Where | Megalochori, Santorini
BOOK | Vedema
SANTORINI HEIGHTS // LUXURY
The small-but-mighty Santorini Heights is perched on the island’s highest point, Moni Profitou Iliou, with views over vineyards out to the caldera.
Santorini Heights, built in a protected area, integrates eco-inspired touches better than most Santorini accommodation options.
The complex of five individual villas features a lot of eco-inspired touches. But they don’t skimp on luxury, either. Expect King-sized beds, private balconies, wellbeing packages and an exclusive collection of premium local wines.
THE DETAILS
Where | Pyrgos, Santorini
BOOK | Santorini Heights
VILLA FABRICA SANTORINI // MID-RANGE
At the edge of a small village, down a steep medieval alley, underneath a castle, there was once a factory making Assyrtiko wine and tsipouro.
Today the site is home to Villa Fabrica, a complex of four luxury accommodations in Pyrgos.
Careful restorations stay true to the site’s heritage, even preserving machinery from the old factory.
Airy, light-filled spaces once used to crush grapes are now split-level suites made from locally sourced materials and polished cement. The simple-but-elegant design aesthetic pays tribute to a bygone era of boozy Cycladic simplicity.
THE DETAILS
Where | Pyrgos, Santorini
BOOK | Villa Fabrica
ARTEMIS SUITES // MID-RANGE
If you’re looking for front-row seats to stunning sea views, Artemis Suites promises to deliver. The seven-suite Artemis complex is perched 250m above the sea on the caldera edge in Megalochori, one of the best areas to stay in Santorini if you’re after tranquillity.
The rooms are simple but tasteful, decorated inside and out in the classic Cycladic style.
Megalochori is south of Fira, so only one room at Artemis offers sunset views. But the hotel pool is still a great place to chill out on a sweltering Santorini day.
THE DETAILS
Where | Megalochori, Santorini
BOOK | Artemis Suites
AFOURA HOUSES // BUDGET
Afoura is one of those rare gems that feels comfortable from the moment you arrive. It’s like home – if “home” was on a Greek island (we wish).
The tiny village of Exo Gonia, near Pyrgos in the island’s southeast, is far removed from Santorini’s busiest areas. That makes Afoura’s five houses an ideal accommodation choice for families, wedding guests, or couples looking for a laid-back homestyle stay.
Afoura, built on the site of a 19th-century winery, offers the warm Greek hospitality we’re always raving about. Plus, you’ll be within walking distance to Kamari beach and close enough to easily visit Fira.
THE DETAILS
Where | Pyrgos, Santorini
BOOK | Afoura
CULTURAL HOUSE // BUDGET
One of the best things about staying in Pyrgos is experiencing something close to an “authentic” way of life. Cultural House, in the middle of the medieval village, is the perfect example.
A recent renovation (in 2018) spruced up the aparthotel complex, adding modern touches like flatscreen TVs and updating the bathrooms. The rooms aren’t fancy, but they have everything you need for a comfortable stay.
In terms of value for money in a quiet area of Santorini, you can’t go wrong with Cultural House.
THE DETAILS
Where | Pyrgos, Santorini
BOOK | Cultural House
THE BEACHES | WHERE TO STAY IN SANTORINI
PORCELAIN PEGASUS // LUXURY
Every inch of Porcelain Pegasus is tastefully Cycladic without going overboard on the yposkafo aesthetic.
Located in the quieter village of Kamari on Santorini’s eastern coast, Porcelain Pegasus is a short walk from the iconic black sand beach, with the rest of the island accessible by car.
The crisp, minimally styled two-bedroom, two-bathroom villa has a heated pool, sunny outdoor areas, and a fully equipped kitchen for a self-contained luxury stay.
THE DETAILS
Where |
BOOK | Porcelain Pegasus
SANTORINI KASTELLI RESORT // LUXURY
We would usually skip resorts in favour of smaller and more affordable options, but Kastelli, near Kamari village, is worth mentioning.
Kastelli Resort has six tiers of rooms ranging from a compact 16m2 Classic Double to the 30m2 Master Suite.
Despite being a few minutes’ walk from the beach, Kastelli Resort boasts four pools (four!), a poolside restaurant, floodlit tennis court, restaurants and bars, plus gym and wellness facilities.
But thanks to a village layout, Kastelli doesn’t feel like an impersonal resort.
THE DETAILS
Where |
BOOK | Kastelli Resort
AEGEAN PLAZA HOTEL // MID-RANGE
Kamari has more resort-style accommodation than other areas of Santorini, so if that’s your thing, then Aegean Plaza could be a great mid-range option.
The hotel has more than 120 rooms, and because you’re on the other side of the island to Fira, you can expect prices to be lower.
You’ve got all the classic hotel amenities in bright, clean, Cycladic-inspired rooms. But most rooms look over the pool, so privacy and peace become optional extras.
THE DETAILS
Where |
BOOK | Aegean Plaza
AEGEAN GEM // MID-RANGE
Aegean Gem is a breath of fresh air among Kamari’s resorts. The four suites, two of which have private hot tubs, are designed to be bioclimatic and energy-efficient. Natural materials balance nicely with modern fixtures throughout the rooms, making for a cosy and climate-friendly stay in Santorini.
There’s a shared pool to cool off after visiting the black sand beach or exploring Santorini, and an on-site restaurant serving fresh Greek delights.
THE DETAILS
Where |
BOOK | Aegean Gem
SANTA ELENA // BUDGET
You only need to read a few reviews to find out why Santa Elena is constantly one of the top-rated accommodation options in Kamari.
During our time in the Cyclades, we encountered the warmth of Greek hospitality quite often, and it seems like Santa Elena has plenty to go around.
The décor might be a little dated, and the building isn’t shaped like a traditional yposkafo cave. Still, if you’re looking for affordable accommodation in Santorini that isn’t a hostel, Santa Elena could be the way to go.
THE DETAILS
Where |
BOOK | Santa Elena
BLUE WAVES SUITES & APARTMENTS // BUDGET
Tucked just back from the southern end of Kamari beach, Blue Waves is a good choice for a short stay on the eastern side of Santorini.
The rooms – seven suites plus three apartments – are bright and sunny, with a hint of pink bougainvillea on the balcony. There’s air conditioning for the summer months and all the basic amenities you need to enjoy your time. Blue Waves is by no means cheap, although it’s quieter and more affordable than nearby resorts.
Make sure to get up early and hike up the nearby trail for an unforgettable sunrise!
THE DETAILS
Where |
BOOK | Blue Waves
SANTORINI TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT SANTORINI
Santorini is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, and as such, is super busy during summer (July and August). And we mean bussssssy!
As a result, we feel like you should avoid visiting in summer.
Despite visiting Santorini just after lockdowns were lifted in early June, the Island felt completely overrun, and this was without the cruise ships which have since made their way back to these waters.
Therefore, we suggest visiting Oia, Santorini between late April - early June, or mid-September - October, otherwise known as shoulder seasons (either side of the peak seasons).
During this time, the days are still long and the weather and sea are warm, but the crowds are smaller and more manageable, making the Oia far more pleasant.
What's more, the price of accommodation, food and drinks is cheaper during the shoulder period - and you’re helping reduce the environmental impact while extending the tourism season to locals.
HOW LONG SHOULD YOU SPEND ON SANTORINI?
We spent 5 nights on Santorini and found it was more than enough time to see all the sights comfortably; you could easily get away with 3 nights and still see everything you'd like to, especially if you had your own transport organised.
It's also worth noting prices on Santorini are almost double that of what you'd find on other islands, like Naxos and Paros, so spending less time here will stretch your dollars further on your holiday.
HOW TO GET AROUND SANTORINI
There are a few ways to get around Santorini, although which one you should opt for kind of depends on whether you're planning to visit during peak season or not.
SCOOTER OR ATV
The best option if you want more flexibility and freedom with your Santorini itinerary while not spending an absolute fortune on car rental. In peak season, you'll want to be able to zip about more freely than you can in a car or by local bus.
We hired an ATV through Tony's in Fira, and we'd do it again in a heartbeat. Genuinely the loveliest family-run business who really cared about the safety and comfort of customers — they picked us up from Imerovigli when we rented our ATV and wouldn't let us leave the premises without going for a proper test drive — and also had some of the best rates on the island.
Note that to rent a scooter in Greece you'll need to show proof of a motorbike license.
LOCAL BUS
Buses are by far the cheapest mode of transport on Santorini, and the network is pretty good and reliable. Most tickets between major hubs generally cost around €1.80 (the most we paid was €2.50 for a ticket) and are paid in cash to the bus driver. Most buses connect in and out of Fira, which is the only super annoying part (like when you're trying to get between Oia and Imerovigli, but have to switch at Fira!).
The buses themselves are decent; they're air-conditioned and comfortable, although in peak season they fill up seriously quickly and you may find yourself standing. They run frequently, although the timings are sometimes a little limiting when you want to pack lots of Santorini's best things to do into a single day.
During the peak of summer, we'd recommend getting to the bus stop early, and be prepared to queue for a while (it can also get pretty pushy!).
BY CAR
Our least favourite option for getting around Santorini, especially in peak season. Car rental here is hideously expensive, and the mostly single-lane roads just choke under the level of traffic on them.
Plenty of locals talked about 30-minute drives stretching into traffic-clogged 2+ hours through July and August, something we witnessed the beginning of during our visit (and in a vastly reduced pandemic season, no less!).
If you can avoid it, personally we'd say don't bother hiring a car.
TRAVEL INSURANCE | STAY SAFE IN GREECE
If you can't afford travel insurance, you really can't afford to travel. As the current global situation has taught many people, things can go wrong anywhere in the world - and insurance is often the only way of mitigating any issues with minimal expense or stress for you.
For all travellers | HeyMondo - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel + medical insurance, an app with 24-hour medical support, and no out of pocket fees. *Get 5% off your policy by booking through our link here.
For digital nomads | SafetyWing - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and policies can be purchased while already abroad.
Car Insurance | Insurance4CarHire - a great annual car insurance policy
*In normal times, we recommend using World Nomads travel insurance, but unfortunately they're not currently covering COVID-19 related claims right now.
PLANNING A TRIP TO GREECE SOON?
Check out these essential guides, travel tips, and more to help you plan your trip:
SANTORINI ATTRACTIONS | A curated Santorini travel guide, The best of Santorini, Where to stay in Santorini, A curated guide to Oia, Santorini, A short guide to Ammoudi Bay, Our curated guide to Megalochori, How to hike Skaros Rock, How and where to find the best Santorini sunsets
THE BEST OF NAXOS | Top things to do on Naxos, Where to stay on Naxos Island, Things to do in Chora Town, A guide to the pretty town of Halki, A guide to Plaka Beach, Agios Prokopios,
EXPLORE PAROS | The best things to do on Paros, A guide to Naoussa town, A guide to Lefkes, A short guide to Parikia Paros, Where to stay on Paros
MYKONOS DREAMING | What to see and do on Mykonos
GREECE SAILING | This is what it’s like to sail the Greek Saronic Islands with Medsailors
PHOTOGRAPHY | Love our photography? Wondering what gear we use to get all of our photos around the world? Click here to view our detailed photography gear guide, as well as our top travel photography tips!
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL | Responsible travel is important. REALLY IMPORTANT. Learn our top responsible travel tips to help you, your family and your friends travel more consciously around the globe
ECO-FRIENDLY PACKING ESSENTIALS | Don’t leave home without our favourite eco-friendly travel essentials
PLAN YOUR GREEK SUMMER WITH OUR USEFUL GUIDES
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That, and you're officially a legend.