Santorini Holidays

Destination highlights

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Beaches | Hotels | Nightlife | Food & drink | Events | Things to do | Weather | Important information | Reviews |

What are the best beaches in Santorini?

Whilst Santorini’s volcanic landscape means it’s not known for gorgeous white-sand beaches, it doesn’t mean that it’s not short of a beach or two. Unique and perfect in every way, here are a couple of our faves:

What are the top hotels in the Santorini?

Chic cave rooms, stylish infinity pools, blissful adult-only hotels and great family-friendly resorts, Santorini really does have it all. So, whether you’re whisking your partner away for a romantic weekend or heading out with the family for some fun in the sun, Santorini is sure to have the perfect hotel for you. Take a look at a few of our faves below:

What’s the food like in Santorini?

From grilled meats to delicious treats, Greek cuisine is like no other. And with such an abundance of delicious ingredients grown on the island, Santorini is a pretty great example of truly spectacular Greek Cuisine. But what to try next? Read on to know your saganaki from your spanakopita and discover some of our top Santorini dishes.

Where is the best nightlife in Santorini?

Santorini is the epitome of chic with super-stylish bars, relaxed beachfront venues and possibly the best terraces in Greece (maybe even Europe). Take a look at a few of our top choices here:

What events can I go to in Santorini?

From traditional religious celebrations to all-night festivals, Santorini is host to some amazing events. Take a look at a few of our highlights below.

What is there to do in Santorini?

Watch the sunset over Oia

Gazing at this spectacular sight has to be one to tick off the bucket list. The picturesque Oia village is at its best when observed at the magic hour of dusk, when locals and tourists alike gather on the ruins of Agios Nikolaos Castle on summer nights to witness the sun edge over the horizon. Whether your viewing platform is accompanied with a bustling atmosphere – or you prefer to privately experience from a table in a local tavern – a sunset from this northwest point is unmissable.

Take a wine tasting tour

From private tours to large groups, and from daytime to sunset tours – there’s bound to be a way to fit in some wine tasting on your holiday. A great way to experience the culinary connection to the landscape, you can taste the various blends that arise from the volcanic soil. Visit the vineyards, explore the varieties of grape and learn about the local fermenting process. Tours give you the chance to visit several of Santorini’s esteemed wineries – such as Venetsanos, Santo and Gavalas – plus most offer hotel pickup and drop off.

Explore the Akrotiri Ruins

Truly understanding the origin of the island comes with visiting the ancient Akrotiri Ruins. Back in the 17th century BC, a huge volcanic eruption shaped the crater that dominates Santorini’s landscape today, totally preserving the Early Bronze Age settlement of Akrotiri. This timeless site is rumoured to be the home of Atlantis and is now known as the Pompeii of the Aegean. We recommend going with a guide so you can make the most of all the history the place has to offer.

Sail around the island

Take a guided tour in a Catamaran to top off your holiday. You’ll see all angles of the volcanic island and discover wonders from dramatic cliff edges to hidden gem bays. Whether you sail in style with a luxury cruise or keep it casual with a chilled-out tour, there’s a perfect pick for any holidaymaker to enjoy. Trust us – no Greek island experience is complete without diving off a boat into the Aegean Sea!

Take a volcano tour

There are plenty of options when it comes to volcano tours in Santorini. So, whether you want to sail through the caldera to hike up the side of the volcano, you’ll certainly discover some of the most amazing views of the island. Not to mention, you can take a dip in the thermal springs here which are known to have proven health benefits and leave your skin super soft.

What's the weather like in Santorini?

Santorini's climate is nothing short of perfect. Summers are hot and dry and winters are mild. You can expect temperatures ranging from 20-30°C and beyond from April through to late September, making this an ideal sun-soaked holiday spot. If you want to catch a last minute deal and avoid the crowds, early autumn is for you. Temperatures are still balmy, but the beaches are much less busy and a laidback vibe takes precedence.

Important Information about travelling to Santorini

How long does it take to fly to Santorini?

It takes about four hours to fly to Santorini from the UK.

What's the time difference between the UK and Santorini?

Santorini is two hours ahead of the time in the UK.

What currency do they use in Santorini?

The official currency of Santorini is the Euro.

What language do they speak in Santorini?

The official language spoken in Santorini is Greek.

Do I need any vaccinations to visit Santorini?

Please check with your healthcare provider for all up to date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.

Do I need to pay tourist tax on my holiday to Santorini?

The Greek goverment charges a sustainable tourism tax on all overnight stays which will be payable on arrival in the hotel:

• 5-star hotels: €4 per room, per night
• 4-star hotels: €3 per room, per night
• 3-star hotels: €1.50 per room, per night
• 1-star & 2-star hotels: €0.50 per room, per night
• 1-4 key apartments: €0.50 per room, per night

Will Covid-19 affect my holiday to Santorini?

We are currently closely following the Covid-19 situation and how it affects travel. You can find out the most up to date information about travel to Greece on the FCO website.

Customer reviews

At On the Beach, we’ve sent many satisfied customers to the Canaries for a bit of sunshine. But don't just take our word for it, read some of their 5-star reviews below.