Santorini Travel Guide: Your Practical Handbook for the Greek Island

If you picture whitewashed houses perched on cliffs, turquoise waters, and sunsets that make you stop breathing, you’re thinking of Santorini. It’s a spot that feels like a postcard, but the reality can be just as easy and enjoyable when you know the basics. Below you’ll get straight‑to‑the‑point advice on where to go, what to eat, and how to move around without getting lost in the hype.

Where to Go First – Must‑See Spots

Start your adventure in Oia. The narrow lanes, blue domes, and the famous sunset view are why it’s on every list. Arrive early in the afternoon to avoid the crowds, grab a coffee at a terrace cafe, and then find a spot on the walls to watch the sun dip. If you prefer a quieter vibe, head to Imerovigli. The views are just as stunning, but the streets are less packed.

Next, spend a few hours in Fira, the island’s capital. It’s the hub for shops, museums, and the cable car that drops you down to the old port. The cable car ride is short but offers a great photo of the caldera. For a deeper look at Santorini’s history, check out the Archaeological Museum of Thera – it’s small, clean, and gives context to the volcanic past.

Don’t miss a trip to the ancient site of Akrotiri. It’s a Bronze Age settlement buried by ash, often called the “Pompeii of the Aegean.” Walk through the preserved streets and imagine life 3,600 years ago. The site is easy to explore in an hour, and you’ll get a sense of why Santorini’s landscape looks so rugged.

Food, Drink, and Local Experiences

Greek cuisine on Santorini has a few island‑specific twists. Try a fresh tomatokeftedes (tomato fritters) in a seaside taverna – they’re crunchy, tangy, and perfect with a glass of local Assyrtiko wine. Speaking of wine, the volcanic soil gives the white Assyrtiko a mineral taste you won’t find elsewhere. Look for a wine tasting at a family‑run vineyard for a relaxed afternoon.

If you’re after a classic Greek meal, order a Greek salad with feta, olives, and sun‑dried tomatoes, then follow up with grilled octopus or a seafood platter. The fish is caught fresh each day, so the taste is unbeatable. For dessert, indulge in baklava or the island’s unique honey‑drizzled loukoumades (mini doughnuts).

A great way to soak up the vibe is to join a cooking class in a traditional home. You’ll learn how to make moussaka, dolmades, and the secret to perfect tzatziki, all while chatting with locals who love sharing their culture.

Getting around is simple. Rent a scooter if you’re comfortable on two wheels – it lets you zip between beaches like Perissa and Kamari in minutes. Buses run regularly between the main towns, and they’re cheap. Taxis are available but can be pricey during peak season, so plan ahead if you need one for late‑night trips.Finally, protect yourself from the sun. Santorini’s cliffs reflect sunlight, so a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water are essential. A quick tip: carry a reusable water bottle; many cafés will refill it for free.

With these basics, you can enjoy Santorini without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Whether you’re chasing that famous sunset, digging into fresh seafood, or wandering ancient ruins, the island has a relaxed rhythm that makes every moment feel special. Pack your curiosity, and let Santorini’s charm do the rest.