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francescool

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I am in the process of choosing a hotel to visit in Santorini this summer and it seems that many of the hotels are smaller and more boutique style and don't have pools. Does anyone know if the bigger hotels with pools offer non guest day passes? I would still love to chill by the pool one day and order drinks and snacks to my pool chair. Any advice? Thanks :)
 
I am in the process of choosing a hotel to visit in Santorini this summer and it seems that many of the hotels are smaller and more boutique style and don't have pools. Does anyone know if the bigger hotels with pools offer non guest day passes? I would still love to chill by the pool one day and order drinks and snacks to my pool chair. Any advice? Thanks :)
I have no idea, but I would love to know the answer this question for the next time I go to Santorini.
 
The answer is yes. There are some hotels that would allow you to use their swimming pool. The price for that most of the times is that you have a minimum consumption on food and drinks per sun bed or per umbrella.
What part of Santorini are you looking to stay in?
 
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Why would you need pools when you’re in a country with beautiful beaches?
 
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When I was traveling for work, I stayed at a business hotel that wasn’t your usual vacation spot but had a great pool area where they let non-guests buy day passes. I grabbed a lounge chair, ordered some drinks and snacks right to me, and just relaxed between meetings. I think bigger hotels in Santorini might do something similar—definitely worth calling ahead to ask.
 
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I've come across a few places in Santorini where you can pay a day fee to use the pool, especially at beach clubs or lesser-known hotels. It's usually easier if the hotel has a restaurant or bar open to the public. I had a similar experience while staying at an orchard road hotel in Singapore where non-guests could access the rooftop pool for a fee—it really depends on the place.
 

Is Santorini Walkable?

It has been a while since I’ve been to Santorini, and I’m thinking about going back in the early summer next year. One thing I’m trying to remember is how walkable the island really is.

I know places like Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli, and Oia are good for walking around once you’re there, but I’m wondering how practical it is to rely on walking for a larger part of the trip. I remember there being some hills, narrow roads, and areas where walking between places might not be as easy as it looks on a map.

For those who have been recently, how much walking did you actually do? Did you find that you still needed buses, taxis, or a rental car most days? I’d especially love to hear from anyone who stayed around Fira or Imerovigli and explored from there.

Best Place to Swim on Santorini?

I'm curious where people think the best place to swim on Santorini is. The island is obviously famous for its views and sunsets, but I don't hear as much discussion about the actual swimming.

I've seen recommendations for Perissa, Kamari, Red Beach, Vlychada, and even swimming from boat excursions around the caldera. They all look beautiful in photos, but I'm wondering which spot people enjoyed the most once they were actually in the water.

Do you prefer the black sand beaches, the more dramatic scenery around Red Beach, or some lesser-known location that visitors often miss? I'm also interested in places with particularly clear water, good snorkeling, or a relaxing atmosphere where you can spend several hours.

If you've been to Santorini, where was your favorite swim? Was it a beach, a hidden cove, or somewhere reached by boat? I'd love to hear your recommendations and why that spot stood out.

Santorini at Christmas - worth the trip?

I’ve visited Santorini before, but always during the warmer months when the island is buzzing with energy. Lately I’ve been thinking about going off-peak, specifically around Christmas, and I’m curious if anyone here has done it.

Is Santorini in winter worth it? I know many hotels, restaurants, and shops close for the season, but I’ve heard mixed things — some say it’s peaceful and magical, others say it’s too quiet and the weather can be unpredictable. I’m not expecting beach days, but I do wonder what it actually feels like to walk around Oia and Fira in December. Are there still good food options? Do any wineries stay open? Is the sea too rough for boat trips?

Hiking in Santorini?

I’ve been to Santorini quite a few times over the years, but somehow I’ve never done any real hiking there. On my next trip, I’d love to change that and experience the island from a different perspective.

The obvious choice seems to be the Fira-to-Oia hike, but I’d love to hear from people who have actually done it. How difficult is it, how long did it take you, and what time of day would you recommend starting? Are there particular sections of the trail that are especially scenic?

I’m also curious whether there are other hikes or walking routes on Santorini that don’t get as much attention. I’ve already seen many of the major sights, so I’m especially interested in something that feels a little different from the usual sightseeing.

Any advice about shoes, water, transportation back afterward, or the best season for hiking would be greatly appreciated!

Hidden Gems in Santorini?

I’m heading back to Santorini this year, and even though I know it’ll be peak season, I’m still really excited. I’ve visited before and already done most of the classic tourist experiences, Oia sunsets, the volcano tour, Red Beach, winery visits, all of that. This time, I’d love to experience a different side of the island and find some quieter or lesser-known spots.

I know Santorini gets crowded in the summer, but I’m hoping there are still hidden gems if you know where to look. Maybe a peaceful village, a taverna locals love, a secluded swimming spot, or even just a scenic place that most visitors skip.

I tend to enjoy slower experiences more than packed itineraries, especially places where you can really feel the atmosphere of the island. For people who know Santorini well, what are your favorite hidden gems or underrated experiences? I’d love recommendations beyond the usual lists.
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