Welcome to the enchanting world of Santorini, where the sun-drenched beaches meet the shimmering blue sea, and every moment feels like a postcard come to life.
In this travel guide, we’re going to take you on a journey through this iconic Greek island, known for its stunning sunsets, charming white-washed buildings, and luxury experiences that redefine the way you travel. So, grab your sunglasses and get ready for an adventure where relaxation and indulgence are the name of the game.
Best Time to Visit
- Summer (June to August): Ideal for beach lovers and vibrant nightlife, but crowded and more expensive.
- Late Spring (May) and Early Autumn (September to October): Pleasant weather with fewer crowds and better rates.
- Winter (November to April): Quiet and affordable, but cooler and rainy; best for solitude seekers. Some businesses may have reduced hours or be closed.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Santorini depends on your preferences and priorities. If you want to enjoy the beaches and vibrant atmosphere, summer is the obvious choice. However, if you prefer a quieter experience with more affordable prices, consider visiting in late spring or early autumn. Winter can be a unique option for those who don’t mind cooler weather and want to explore the island without the crowds.
Getting to Santorini
- Flying: Take an international or domestic flight to Santorini National Airport from major European cities or Athens.
- Ferry: Travel by ferry from Piraeus (Athens) or other Greek islands. High-speed ferries are also available for faster travel.
- Cruise Ship: Santorini is a popular stop for cruise ships.
Best areas to stay on the island
Santorini offers various charming areas to stay, each with its own unique character. The best part of the island for you to stay in depends on your preferences and priorities. Here are some of our recommendations for different types of travellers.
- Oia: For Romance and Sunsets: Oia is famous for its stunning sunsets and romantic atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for honeymooners and couples looking for a picturesque setting. Luxury accommodations with Caldera views are prevalent here.
- Fira (Thira): For Vibrant Atmosphere: Fira is the capital and commercial hub of Santorini. It offers a lively atmosphere, great nightlife, shopping, and a wide range of restaurants. It’s suitable for those who want easy access to amenities and a central location.
- Imerovigli: For Quiet Luxury: Imerovigli is quieter than Oia and Fira but still offers breath-taking Caldera views. It’s a good choice for travellers seeking a more relaxed ambiance with upscale accommodations.
- Kamari and Perissa: For Beach Lovers: These eastern coastal towns boast long black sand beaches, making them ideal for beach enthusiasts. You’ll find a variety of beachfront hotels, restaurants, and water sports activities here.
- Akrotiri: For History and Archaeology: Akrotiri is home to the ancient Minoan settlement of Akrotiri, often referred to as the “Pompeii of the Aegean.” History buffs and those interested in archaeology may enjoy staying here.
- Pyrgos: For Authentic Charm: Pyrgos is a traditional village with narrow streets, quaint houses, and panoramic views. It provides a glimpse into traditional Santorini life and is ideal for travellers seeking authenticity.
Luxury Santorini accommodation
Let’s dive into a handpicked collection of the our favourite luxury accommodations that Santorini has to offer.
- Oia Spirit Boutique Residences – Oia (see our full review here)
- Olvos Luxury Suites – Oia
- Apeiron Blue Santorini – Fira (Thira)
- Cosmopolitan Suites, Small Luxury Hotels of the World – Fira (Thira)
- Rocabella Santorini Hotel and Spa – Imerovigli
- Cavo Tagoo – Imerovigli
- Costa Grand Resort and Spa – Kamari
- Kastelli Resort – Kamari
- Filoxenia Luxury Villas – Perissia
- Antoperla Luxury Hotel & Spa – Perissia
- Astarte Suites – Akrotiri
- Ambassador Aegean Luxury Hotel & Suites – Akrotiri
- Alleys All-Suite Hotel & Spa – Pyrgos
- Luna Santorini Boutique Suites – Pyrgos
Exquisite dining options
Santorini boasts some exquisite dining options for those seeking a luxurious culinary experience. Here are some of our top luxury restaurant recommendations on the island.
- Pyrgos Restaurant (Pyrgos): Known for creative Greek cuisine and 360 degree views of the island.
- La Maison (Oia): Offers fine Mediterranean fusion dishes.
- 1800-Floga (Oia): Mediterranean cuisine with a view.
- Ammoudi Fish Tavern (Ammoudi Bay): Classic seafood by the sea.
- Ambrosia Restaurant (Oia): Intimate Mediterranean dining.
- To Psaraki (Vlychada Beach): Fresh seafood with a view.
- Lauda Restaurant (Oia): Canaves Oia Suites’ upscale dining.
- Anhydrous Winery & Restaurant (Fira): Award winning vineyard with wine tasting and food pairing options
- Koukoumavlos (Fira): Fusion of Mediterranean and Asian flavours.
- The Vine (Fira): Fine dining with Caldera views.
Things to do in Santorini
- Private Caldera Cruise: Charter a private yacht or catamaran for a personalized cruise around the Caldera. Enjoy gourmet meals, fine wines, and snorkeling in secluded coves.
- Helicopter Tour: Take a private helicopter tour to admire the island’s stunning landscapes from the sky. It’s an unparalleled way to appreciate Santorini’s beauty.
- Sunset Dinner in Oia: Reserve a private table at a cliffside restaurant in Oia for an intimate sunset dinner. Enjoy world-class cuisine with a front-row seat to the iconic Santorini sunset.
- Luxury Wine Tours: Opt for private wine tours and tastings at renowned wineries, complete with a sommelier’s guidance.
- Spa Day: Pamper yourself with a spa day at a luxury resort. Many hotels offer world-class spa treatments with stunning views of the Caldera.
- Private Beach Clubs: Book a cabana or lounge chair at one of the island’s exclusive beach clubs, such as Theros Wave Bar or Beach House Santorini.
- Exclusive Shopping: Explore high-end boutiques in Fira and Oia, offering luxury fashion, jewelry, and art pieces.
- Candlelit Cave Dining: Some restaurants offer private cave dining experiences with candlelight, creating a romantic atmosphere like no other.
- Horseback Riding on the Beach: Enjoy horseback riding on the beaches of Santorini, offered by select equestrian centers.
- Private Cooking Classes: Join private cooking classes with renowned chefs to learn how to prepare Greek and Santorinian dishes.
- Personalized Photography Tours: Arrange for a professional photographer to capture your Santorini memories in iconic locations.
- Santorini Arts and Culture: Explore the island’s art galleries, cultural events, and live performances for a taste of Santorini’s artistic side.
- Open-air Cinema – The open-air cinema in Kamari offers an enchanting evening experience, featuring timeless classics like ‘Mamma Mia’ and a delightful selection of food and beverages to enjoy during your visit.
Our hints and tips
- If you’re visiting during the summer season, it’s a good idea to make restaurant reservations in Oia and Fira (Thira) in advance. The area can get quite bustling, particularly if you’d like to guarantee a prime spot for the breath-taking sunset.
- For a more relaxed experience, consider staying in one of the serene beachside towns, such as Kamari or Perissa. These tranquil havens are just a short taxi ride from the bustling tourist hubs, offering a peaceful escape to unwind and avoid the crowds.
- If you choose to stay in one of the livelier areas, a suite featuring a private plunge pool is undoubtedly the ideal choice. These accommodations offer both breath-taking views and a sense of seclusion, combining the best of both worlds.
- While Uber is available in Santorini, the app is relatively new, and taxi queues at ranks can be quite lengthy. If you intend to explore the island for the day, it’s advisable to have your hotel arrange a taxi in advance for a smoother experience.
- While chartering a boat for a day may initially appear costly, especially for larger groups, many companies are open to negotiation. It’s a good practice not to settle for the first price offered.
- If your intending to visit the Open-air cinema in Kamari, it’s advisable to arrive early. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and reservations cannot be made. We recommend arriving at least 45 minutes before the film’s scheduled start time to join the queue and secure your seats.
Check out some of our favourite Santorini moments on our Instagram – @luxplorations
Leave a Reply