Santorini Holiday 2026: How to Plan a Trip to Santorini Greece

My lovely anxious travelers, gather ’round! Valentina, your queen of super-organized travel and slayer of travel anxiety, is here to spill the Santorini tea after having a magical time in this romantic island with my husband!

Forget everything you think you know about postcard-perfect islands. Santorini isn’t just about those swoon-worthy sunsets that flood your Instagram feed (although, let’s be honest, they’re pretty darn epic even when overcrowded).

Santorini is a volcanic wonderland where ancient ruins whisper secrets; whitewashed villages cling to cliffs like sugar cubes, and the Aegean Sea shimmers like a million scattered diamonds.

But hold on to your floppy hats, my lovely anxious traveler! Before you start planning your trip to Santorini Greece with visions of infinity pools and endless baklava dancing in your head, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Because, let’s face it, even the most glamorous getaways can turn into travel tantrums if you’re not prepared.

That’s where your girl Valentina comes in, armed with enough tips and tricks to make you the most organized, stress-free Santorini explorer this side of the Mediterranean. We’re talking insider knowledge, hidden gems, and enough planning hacks to make even the most scatterbrained jetsetter feel like a pro. ️

So, ditch the travel FOMO and grab your metaphorical passport because we’re about to embark on a journey to Santorini that’ll have you saying “Opa!” with confidence and “hasta la vista” to travel anxiety forever. Get ready to laugh, learn, and maybe even drool a little over the mouthwatering descriptions of Santorini’s culinary delights.

Now, I know what you’re thinking, my lovely travelers: “Valentina, with all these dreamy descriptions, Santorini practically plans itself!” And let me tell you, your adventurous spirit is admirable.

But here’s the thing: while Santorini might be a beauty with an “easy breezy” vibe, a sprinkle of disorganization can turn your Grecian goddess getaway into a scene straight out of a Mykonos hangover comedy (not the cute kind).

Think of wrong turns that lead you to overpriced tourist traps instead of hidden gems, scrambling for sunset spots overflowing with selfie sticks (like it happened to us, unfortunately), and ending up with cold moussaka because you didn’t snag a reservation at that waterfront taverna I rave about.

Santorini deserves better than hangry meltdowns and “where am I?” moments. That’s where your trusty travel best friend, yours truly, comes in. My information is like the secret spices in your Santorini culinary adventure—it elevates the experience, adds a dash of magic, and ensures your taste buds (and Instagram feed) sing with delight.

So, follow my lead, my lovely, anxious traveler, and let’s turn your Santorini trip from “could’ve been epic” to “legendary!” After all, wouldn’t you rather be sipping cocktails with a caldera view instead of battling crowds for the last overpriced baklava? The choice is yours, my adventurous friend.

Ready to dive in? Because I’m about to take you on a Santorini adventure you won’t forget! Also, don’t forget to download my free 42-page guide to becoming a super-organized traveler like me. You are going to love it!

How to plan a trip to Santorini Greece

Time Zone in Santorini:

Santorini is a beautiful place to visit, and it’s located in Greece, which is in the Eastern European Time Zone. This means that Greece is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT +1).

However, during summertime, Greece observes daylight saving time, which means that the time is moved forward by 1 hour, making it 3 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT +3).

But don’t worry, during winter, the time in Greece is moved back by 1 hour to Eastern European Time. These changes happen on the last Saturday of March and Saturday of October each year. I hope this information is helpful!

Currency in Santorini:

Santorini’s official currency is the euro. Always bring some cash with you, especially on the islands and in little towns. 

You won’t be paying cash all the time, as there are shops and merchants in Greece that are well-equipped to accept card payments—Visa and Mastercard are more common than American Express. See the actual currency change. 

Vaccinations needed to visit Santorini:

​You should ask your family doctor before traveling to Greece and ensure you receive the appropriate vaccinations. Ensure you’re up to date with recommended vaccinations for your home country.

See The Travel Vaccines and Advice for Greece.

Voltage and Adaptors for Santorini:

​A travel adapter is an absolute must-have for any international trip, but especially when you’re heading somewhere as utterly romantic as Santorini. I mean, let’s be real – you’re going to want to look absolutely fabulous in all those (approximately one thousand) photos you’re inevitably going to ask your travel buddy to take of you, right? Of course you do!

You’re in Santorini! It’s practically a crime not to document every stunning moment! So, to ensure you can actually style your hair (or charge your camera, or whatever your essential gadget may be!), you’ve got two options:

• Invest in a voltage converter and a plug adapter specifically for your hair tools. This ensures compatibility with London’s voltage and keeps your mane looking fabulous.
• Opt for a travel-friendly hair tool kit with dual voltage capabilities. These clever gadgets work seamlessly across different voltage systems, saving precious suitcase space and ensuring good hair days no matter your adventure.

The standard voltage in Greece is 220-240 volts. Most of the sockets are European plugs of the two round-pin varieties.

Shop the plug adaptor that I use.

How to get to Santorini:

You can get to Santorini by plane or by ferry. Santorini has a single international airport that offers great connectivity to most of the major cities in Europe. So, no matter where you’re coming from, you’ll be able to find a flight that suits your needs.

In fact, numerous airlines from different parts of Europe fly to Santorini, making it easy to get to this beautiful island. You’ll find plenty of options to choose from, whether you’re looking for a budget airline or a more luxurious one.

Once you arrive at the airport, you’ll be just a short distance away from all the exciting things the island offers. Remember that Santorini airport is relatively small, so there is no need to arrive too many hours before your flight departure.

See all the flights to get to Santorini.

​When I visited Santorini, I got there by ferry from Ios island (during my Greek island-hopping tour) and flew back to London from Santorini. If you have more than four days to spend in Greece, I highly recommend you visit more than one island. You can explore plenty of islands near Santorini before or after Santorini, so check out how to reach them.

See ferries to and from Santorini island.

Pssst! Plan Your Vacation in Santorini! Check out my “Complete Guide to Santorini Page” and get all the info to make your next trip successful. 

Travel Tip: If you arrive in Santorini too early for your check-in or your departure time is too many hours after your check-out, and you need a place to store your luggage, check out Radical Storage in Santorini, a website that shows you all the safe places to keep your bags while still exploring Santorini.

Going from Santorini Airport or Santorini Ferry Port to your accommodation:

​It is always wise to check how to get from the airport to your accommodation. There are always many ways to choose from. In Santorini, some buses go to the city center, or you can book a private taxi in advance that will take you to your accommodation. 

I’ll give you all the details on how to get to your accommodation in Santorini below.

Greece island hopping Tip: Check out Ferryhopper, the best ferry website to reach the Greek islands. Where you will find all the ferry routes available in Greece.

Reach your Hotel in Santorini by private transfer:

When we arrived at Santorini Port by ferry, we had a private driver waiting for us who took us to our hotel, so we arrived in less than a ten-minute drive.

My favorite private transfer website is ​Kiwitaxi. On this site, I can book a transfer to my accommodation in 98 countries between tourist destinations or other popular locations (like the airport or, in this case, the ferry port).

See Santorini transfer prices and availability.

Reach your Hotel in Santorini By Bus:

You can reach Fira (Santorini’s main town) by bus from the airport and the ferry port. And from there, catch another bus to reach your accommodation. Every beach and village is very well connected to the main town called Fira so you won’t have any problem exploring the island by public transport.

​Just ask for an island bus map at the Fira bus station as I did, so you will know how to reach every place you want to visit. Bus tickets cost only 1.80 euros.

Santorini travel tips: If you visit Santorini during the high season, from June to September, I won’t recommend moving around the island by bus. We did it and often had to wait for another bus because the first one was packed. When we finally got on one, the bus was so packed up that we felt like we were in a sardine can. We NEVER found a seat available and had to stand up the whole time (once, I had to stay on the stairs pushed against the back door, like no safety at all), so be aware of it, and if you can, rent a scooter.

How to Rent a Car in Santorini:

If you like driving like me, and you wish to reach all the best beaches in Santorini, you can always rent a car; in this case, I always have a look at my favorite rental car websites, and I see where I find the best deals. 

Have a look at my favorite rental cars in Greece:

EconomyBookings: EconomyBookings provides an extensive collection of rental cars, with over 20,000 rental shops in 150 countries. Many of these shops are conveniently located near airports, allowing travelers to rent a car immediately after arrival and avoid additional transportation costs.

​RentalCars: RentalCars.com is an international car rental booking service that is available worldwide.

Are tap water and food safe in Santorini?

​It’s safe to drink tap water in Greece only on the mainland and also from drinking fountains that you will find, especially in the major cities and parks. Unfortunately, in most Greek islands (not all of them), like Santorini, it is highly recommended to avoid drinking tap water.

​I always carry a reusable bottle so I can fill it up anytime I have the chance. However, it would be better for you to avoid bottled water on the Greek islands.

A smart thing I did while on the Greek islands was to keep bottled water inside the mini fridge at my accommodation and then fill up my stainless steel reusable bottle in the morning to keep it cold throughout the day while exploring around or while I was at the beach.

​If you are unsure if tap water is drinkable, it’s always safe to ask locals or, in doubt, to drink bottled water.

Santorini is a feast for the senses, and your taste buds will sing opera with every bite. But let’s be honest: Sometimes, our eyes are bigger than our stomachs (guilty as charged!).

My mamma always says, “Eat with your mouth, not your eyes,” but let’s face it: When faced with Santorini’s culinary delights, even the wisest words go out the window (sorry, mamma!).

Before you panic, I’m not suggesting you turn into a human dustpan. But sometimes, new foods or (ahem) indulging a little too much can leave your tummy feeling less than thrilled. That’s why I always pack a few natural remedies, just in case. Think of it like a travel insurance policy for your gut!

My favorite Natural remedies for stomach upset or food poisoning:

​Milk Thistle: Milk thistle has a long history of traditional use for relieving digestive discomfort associated with occasional overindulgence in food and drink, such as indigestion and upset stomach. It may be a helpful option to consider supporting digestive comfort while traveling.

Charcoal capsules: Activated charcoal has a history of traditional use for managing occasional digestive upset. Some studies suggest it may be helpful in certain cases of food-related digestive discomfort. While I keep charcoal capsules in my travel kit, you must consult a healthcare professional for advice, especially for persistent or severe symptoms.

​Probiotics: Probiotics are often discussed for their potential to support gut health, especially when traveling. My doctor has suggested that taking probiotics a few days before and during travel to specific destinations may be a helpful strategy for maintaining digestive balance. It’s essential to consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice on probiotic use, especially if you experience digestive upset.

Before using any of these natural remedies, talk to your doctor.

Eating and Drinking in Mykonos:

Santorini’s a foodie paradise, no joke! Forget boring salads—we’re talking juicy meats, fresh-caught fish, and veggies packed with sunshine, from melt-in-your-mouth Santorini aubergines to crispy calamari that’ll make you sing “Opa!” Your taste buds will be on a Greek adventure.

Want the insider scoop on all the deliciousness? Head over to my “What to Eat in Santorini” articles – they’re like a treasure map to the island’s culinary gold. Trust me, your stomach will thank you (and maybe do a little happy dance)!

Prices may vary from locations and bars and restaurants, but these are the approximate prices for the most common foods and drinks in Santorini:

​In Supermarket                                                                                         

• Bottle 1.5 L water: around 1.00 Euro                                                                                          
• Bottle of Beer 0.5 L: approximately 2.00 Euro 
• Bottle of Wine: 10-20 Euro  

​At a Bar:                                                   

• Coffee latte: 1.50 Euro
• Coke in a Can: Around 2.00-2.50 Euro
• A glass of 0.5 L Beer: around 1.50-2.00 Euro 
• A glass of Wine: Around 3.50-6.00 Euro
• A bottle of wine: 20-30 Euro

At a Restaurant:

• Restaurant on a budget per person: Around 15/20 Euro                
• Restaurant medium-range per person: Around 40-60 Euro
• Fine dining Restaurant per person: From 100 Euro

Tipping Guide in Santorini:

​In Greek restaurants, a 10-20% gratuity is often added to the bill, so check that you’re not already paying the tip before adding more. If not, a tip of 10-15% is encouraged, mostly in tourist places. 

The tip should reflect the customer service you received, so it is up to you to decide how much to give.

Cost of Travelling in Santorini:

​Santorini is a famous island, so if you want to save some money and explore it without people pushing you against the cliff, I advise you to avoid it from June to August when it can be boiling, crowded, and more expensive. 

Flights can be cheap from September to May (I went from London to Athens, and a one-way ticket cost me 55 £, while London to Santorini was more than £150).

About accommodation, whether you’re picturing a room with a private pool reflecting the Aegean or a stylish room that won’t break the bank, Santorini has a little magic for every budget.

Sure, those suites with cave pools overlooking the caldera look like something straight out of a Hollywood movie, but let’s be honest, even the most glamorous room can’t compete with the real star of the show: Santorini itself!

So, don’t get caught up in FOMO-fueled accommodation anxiety, and make sure to book your accommodation in advance to find the best option for all your needs and dreams. You will surely find something great for your stay.

Whether you choose a charming, budget-friendly gem with a caldera peek or a stylish spot with a balcony and sea views, remember, the true Santorini magic happens outside your door.

Think sunset strolls through whitewashed villages, cliffside hikes with jaw-dropping panoramas, and feasts that’ll make your taste buds do a jig. These are the memories you’ll treasure long after you’ve returned home, not the thread count of your sheets.

So, pick a place that fits your wanderlust style and budget, and prepare to create unforgettable Santorini moments! Who knows, maybe you’ll even stumble upon a hidden gem so chic that you’ll wish you’d packed your tiara instead of your swimsuit.

Remember, sometimes the best adventures start in the most unexpected places!

Shopping and Souvenirs in Santorini:

​The options are limitless in a cultural country like Greece and a famous island like Santorini, so leave some extra room in your luggage and save some extra cash, baby, because we are going shopping. You will find many shops that sell arts and crafts wherever you go.

If you don’t know the most incredible souvenirs to buy in Greece, I have a detailed article for you (like always, you know me!).

Locally hand-crafted ceramics, wood carvings, textiles, and jewelry are perfect as souvenirs and gifts for your family and friends (to make them jealous about your fabulous vacation in Greece but also to let them know you thought about them while away). If you want to buy antiques, please be careful, beware of fakes, and stick to reputable sellers.

​Also, liquors and food are excellent ideas to take home with you, like Ouzo, the famous anise-flavored spirit, honey, herbs for cooking like dry thyme or oregano, olive oil is delicious in Greece, and olives. Santorini is renowned for its delicious wine, which could be a great idea as a souvenir.

​Read my Wonderful Souvenirs to Buy in Greece.

Heads up! Looking for the perfect tan this summer? Read my “Guide to the perfect tan.”

Is Greece safe for a solo female traveler?

​Greece is pretty safe. During the day, with tourists and locals around the streets, the only thing you will have to worry about are pickpockets, which can unfortunately be present in every tourist city. 

​There are many mistakes to avoid as a female solo traveler, and I advise having an antitheft purse or an antitheft backpack with you. Prudence is never enough when you are far from home, even in the safest place in the world.​

​Overnight, I advise any solo female traveler to keep her eyes open anywhere because bad things can happen to anybody at any time, so please take safety first.

​During my solo travels, I always contacted locals through travelers’ Facebook groups, and I have been lucky to meet people who took me around and showed me their city. Hence, I felt pretty safe being out late in the evening because I wasn’t alone.

Welcome to my travel guide, my lovely anxious traveler! Want to know who is behind Valentina’s Travel Guide? Let me tell you more about myself.

Pssst! Plan Your Vacation in Santorini in the Best Way! Read all my articles in my “Complete Guide of Santorini” and get all the info to make your next travel successful. 

How to Move Around Santorini:

​When I plan a trip, I always make sure to have a well-planned trip. I am not talking about planning where to be at every time of the day because when traveling, it is nice to be spontaneous but not too much, if you know what I mean.

That is why I always recommend checking out how to move around the place you will visit to save time and don’t get lost.​​ Read below:

Move by Buse in Santorini:

There are many bus lines in Santorini, and they all start their journey from the Fira bus station. From there, you can reach every part of the island. The destination is written on a sign in front of the bus.

Go to Fira Bust Station (the main town in Santorini) and ask the bus ticket office for a bus map so you’ll know how to move around.

How to move around Santorini by car:

An excellent way to visit Santorini is by renting a car, so you can stop whenever and go wherever you need to. Renting a car in Greece is pretty cheap, but everything is more expensive on the island of Santorini.

So if you want to explore every beach and little village like I love to do, the best way is by renting a car or having a good plan and much extra time to explore it by bus (it will take you much longer).

See car rental prices and availability in Santorini.

How to move around Santorini by scooter:

One of the most enjoyable ways to explore Santorini is by driving a scooter or a quad bike. This way, you won’t have to wait for a crowded bus or spend an hour searching for a parking spot.

However, you must know how to drive a scooter safely and not risk your life. Practice before your vacation to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

See scooter and quad prices and availability in Santorini.

Book Tours and Activity in Santorini:

Santorini, oh Santorini! Where boredom goes to die, and adventure takes center stage! From boat tours that whisk you to hidden bays and volcanic hot springs to epic catamaran cruises with BBQ and enough laughter to fuel a fiesta, there’s an activity for every wanderlust warrior.

Want to live out your inner beach bum with your besties? Picture yourselves sunbathing on the deck, getting the best tan ever, salty hair flowing, and endless blue stretching before you. Sounds pretty dreamy, right? Then, a Caldera catamaran cruise is your golden ticket! But hold on, lovebirds, Santorini isn’t just about squad goals.

Feeling the romance in the air? (As a hopeless romantic myself, I totally get it!) Why not book a sunset cruise with dinner and swoon over the island’s legendary fiery skies from one of the best viewing spots? Imagine clinking glasses with your boo, whispering sweet nothings as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of passion. Now that’s a Santorini memory you’ll never forget!

So, whether you’re seeking adventure with your crew or a romantic rendezvous under the stars, Santorini has an activity that’ll leave you saying, “Valentina, you genius, you planned the perfect trip!” Trust me, with this island’s endless possibilities, the only limit is your imagination (and maybe your phone’s storage space for all those epic pics!).

See all the activities in Santorini.

Forget the Stress, Embrace the Isles: Ready to trade your worries for white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters? These multi-day Greek island hopping tours are your ticket to paradise. No more fumbling with maps or stressing over ferry schedules. Just sit back, relax, and let them whisk you away to the stunning islands of Mykonos, Santorini, and more.

Is it easy to find wifi in Santorini?

​You won’t have any problems finding Wi-Fi here; it is available and fast in all hotels and most restaurants or bars.

IMPORTANT TELEPHONE NUMBERS IN SANTORINI

• Airport Santorini +30 22860 28400
• Taxis +30 22860 22555
• Bus Service +30 22860 25404
• Fira Police Station +30 22860 22649
• Fira Health Center +30 22863 60300
• Port Authority +30 22860 22239
• Tourism Office +30 22860 27199

Before you go…

Listen to your inner travel guru, my lovely anxious travelers: a little organization goes a long way. Imagine arriving in Santorini, prepping like a pro, knowing exactly where to find the hidden gems, the most delicious bites, and the views that’ll make your jaw hit the floor (not literally, please; Santorini’s rocks are sharp!).

No more wandering, no more hangry meltdowns, just pure Santorini bliss.

Think of this guide as your golden ticket to unlocking the island’s magic. Follow my tips to plan the most organized trip to Santorini, and you’ll be sipping cocktails on a balcony overlooking the caldera, feeling like a VIP, not a lost tourist.

Plus, let’s be honest. Wouldn’t you rather spend your precious vacation time creating memories, not stressing over logistics? Trust me, your future self with a tan and a full belly will thank you (or thank me for all the free help I’m giving you. Have you subscribed to my free VIP Travel Zen Area to become a super-organized traveler like me yet?).

So, ditch the stress, embrace the plan, and get ready to experience Santorini like a pro. Remember, a little planning goes a long way; in this case, the way leads to Santorini magic.

Now, who’s ready to go on their Greek island adventure?