Santorini holidays

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Holidays to Santorini (or Thira) are one for the bucket-list. Part of Greece’s Cyclades island group, do not miss a trip to the hilltop heaven, Oia. Topped with whitewashed buildings and set against the sparkling Aegean, most people head here for one reason, and one reason only! To catch one of the world’s best sunsets! While, its volcanic sights are just as impressive.

From its multi-coloured beaches in the east to its sunken caldera in the west, you’ll find glimpses of the island’s eruptive past right across its landscape.

Things to do

This island’s unique terrain has something to suit all tastes. Whether your Greece holidays are about a relaxing week soaking up the sun or you want to tick-off its bucket-list attractions. First on everyone’s itinerary is a sunset sitting, and you won’t be disappointed! Located on Oia’s highest peak, head to the Byzantine Castle ruins to witness one of the island’s most jaw-dropping views. Or, if you want to see this glowing spectacle while sipping Santorini’s best wine, Santo Wines Winery in Pyrgos promises both.

And when you’re done hunting down the best sunset spots, you could be hiking to the top of a volcano with a day in Nea Kameni. Only accessible via boat, the tough climb will be worth it once you see its incredible lava formations. For more volcanic beauty, take a cruise around the famous caldera. Not only will this take you right to the base, but you can also book a sailing which stops by some of its most famous beaches, like Red Beach at the ancient site of Akrotiri. Surrounded by crimson cliffs, this pebble-strewn cove is one of the island’s rarest natural wonders, after the caldera of course.

There’s just as much going on in the evening too! When you’re not grabbing a cocktail in one of Fira’s many atmospheric bars, you could be catching a film under the stars at an open-air cinema - one of the top things to do in Kamari.

But no trip to Greece would be complete without trying some traditional fare. From spots specialising in seafood to humble family-run tavernas, its restaurant scene is pretty impressive. Oh and don’t forget to try a Santorini salad! Made from capers, sun-dried tomatoes and cucumbers, it’s the island’s twist on a Greek salad.

Places To Stay

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Map of Santorini

9°C - 30°C

As the largest and southernmost of the Cyclades, Santorini has a typical, Mediterranean climate with rainy yet mild winters, followed by hot, dry summers.

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Approximately 4 hours

You’ll fly to Santorini Airport (JTR), which is situated to the north of Kamari and to the east of the capital Fira.

Types of holidays in Santorini

Santorini is best for...

Honeymooners: If you’ve just got hitched, Santorini should be top of your list of places to visit on your honeymoon. With a more dreamier view around every corner, there’s no shortage of romantic spots. From candle-lit dinners in cave-like settings to magical sunsets guaranteed to take your breath away, get ready to fall in love all over again.

Photographers: From its famous blue domes to its otherworldly sunsets and volcanic beaches, Santorini is full of photogenic scenes. Whether you know exactly how to work the camera, or you love documenting your holiday - it’s pretty hard to take a bad photo here. And if you need some help finding the best spots, you can always book a photography tour.

Wine-enthusiasts: With over forty native varieties of grapes on the island combined with the rich volcanic soil, Santorini’s wine is celebrated for its robust flavour. So when you’re not visiting its three award-winning wineries, you could be learning all about how it’s produced at The Koutsoyannopoulos Wine Museum.

Fast facts for Santorini

Language: The language spoken is Greek. While the locals have a good understanding of English, it’s worth packing a phrasebook or downloading a language app.

Currency: The currency used is the Euro.

Local time: Santorini is two hours ahead of GMT/UK time.

Fly to: Santorini Airport (JTR), which is located on the east of the island.

Flight time from UK: Approximately 4 hours.

Tourist information: Further tourist information can be found at the official website for tourism in Santorini.

Visa and health: Before you travel, check the latest advice from The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.

Holiday destinations related to Santorini:

Getting around Santorini

By bus: Named KTEL buses and covering the whole island, you can hop from one village to the next thanks to Santorini’s regular, year-round services. Costing around €2, it’s a great way to see the sights without dipping too far into your spending money.

By taxi: If you’re looking for a quick, efficient mode of transport, there'll be plenty of taxis willing to take you to the island’s sights. Flag one down from Fira square, or book one in advance for a cheaper rate.

By cable car: A ride on the cable car is a must during your time on the island. Costing just 6 euros for adults and 3 euros for kids, you’ll be transported from the old port to the centre of Fira in a matter of minutes - just enough time to take in the breathtaking sea views along the way.

Events in Santorini

International Music Festival: Held each September, the International Music Festival takes over the town for five days. Expect recitals, concerts and performances from world-famous musicians, across a variety of genres, including opera and jazz.

Ifaisteia Festival: Picture Santorini with a sky full of fireworks, and you’ve got one amazing festival! With a name that translates to volcanoes, this annual event takes place every August to celebrate the island’s volcanic past. And it’s not just a dazzling display you can look forward to, the event is also known for its dance and musical performances.

Santorini safety and security

For up-to-date advice on travelling to Santorini, please visit the FCDO website.

Santorini weather

Temperature: Average temperatures range from 12 °C in January to 26˚C between July and August.

Best time to visit?

If you’re looking to do some sightseeing on your Santorini holidays, book your trip between May and June when temperatures are slightly cooler.

The island has a sunny Mediterranean climate, with the warm weather kicking in from April and reaching its peak around August. Expect long hours of sunshine and beautiful beach weather between May and September. Those who want to escape the rain should avoid December (the wettest month), while January is the coldest when the mercury can drop as low as 9°C.

Weather in Santorini for