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kosta_karapinotis

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Santorini is inundated with tourists but I am wondering if there is anywhere on the island that may not be as busy but is still nice to visit. Or, that is maybe close to the busy areas but not too close. I love Santorini, and my family has never been. I want them to see it, but I don't want it to be stressful.

I am wondering if I should just forget it. I have heard stories about how expensive and busy it is in the summers.
 
I’m not sure that there is any out-of-the-way place left in Santorini. However I agree with you. It is a very unique and important place to visit. In spite of the fact that Greece is now being heavily promoted as a year-round destination, you should definitely try to avoid Santorini in July and August, unless that interferes too much with (I assume) your children’s school schedule. You could also look for accommodation in a village like Pyrgos or other inland village and rent a car which would give you flexibility to get around and find those quiet spots when the cruise ships arrive and everyone else is on the cliffs! The other secret is to get up early and walk the cliffs (Fira to Oia) before people are awake and people have disembarked from the ships. It can be a blissfully quiet and stunning walk as the morning fog rises out of the Caldera. Unless the cruise ships have changed this, Sunday morning can be a good time to explore Greek towns in general - before the shops are open.
 
I think this travel hack "get up early" to enjoy a popular destination works every time. It's really hard to take a photo if the place is already crowded and somehow disappoints you. So, if I really want to enjoy and appreciate its beauty, then I don't mind waking up early.
 
I agree with Deborah, Santorini is important to visit at least once. It's iconic and very stunning. FootsLog, it is tough for me to wake up early but for Santorini I agree with you. Set the alarm and get out there and really see it before the crowds come in.
 
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There's some great advice here thank you everyone! I am going to try to get my family up early to enjoy some stuff before the crowds kick in. Maybe we can eat a long lunch during the "peak" times to avoid much of the bustle in the main areas.

Meanwhile, I am thinking of staying in Pyrgos or other village inland and slightly away from Oia or Fira to help with that, too. But my wife is still pushing to stay on the Caldera... we'll have to see how this evolves. lol.
 
Unless your wife is thinking of one of the luxury cliffside hotels with cave bedrooms and a horizon pool etc. (and who could blame her?!) a good compromise might be the Aressana Spa and Hotel in Fira. It is located right next to the Cathedral and just a minute’s walk to the cliffside that could be viewed any time. There’s also a pool for the family and parking for your rental car.
 

Staying in Oia or Fira in Santorini?

I’m planning a trip to Santorini for the summer of 2025 and need some advice on where to stay. I’ve heard a lot about Oia and Fira, but I can’t decide between the two. Oia looks absolutely stunning with those famous sunsets, but Fira seems to have more going on with shops, restaurants, and nightlife.

For those of you who have been, which would you recommend for a first-time visitor? Or is there another place on the island that’s even better to stay? I’m looking for a spot with great views, but also somewhere that isn’t too hard to get around from. I don’t mind a bit of hustle and bustle, but I’d also like some time to relax.

Any tips or personal experiences would be really appreciated. Thank you!

Can I Rent a Car on Santorini?

I’m planning a trip to Santorini, and I’ve heard mixed opinions about renting a car on the island. I’d love to know if it’s a good idea to rent a car there, or if it’s better to rely on public transportation or taxis.

I’m especially curious about how easy it is to drive on the island. Are the roads safe and well-marked? Are there areas where parking is particularly difficult, like in Oia or Fira?

Honestly, I had heard that getting a rental car on Santorini could be tricky because of the rules on the island? Is this even an option?

Flying to Santorini from Toronto?

I'm planning a trip to Santorini from Toronto and would love some advice! What are the best flight routes and airlines to consider? Any tips on layovers or the most convenient connections? I'm also interested in knowing about the best times to book for good deals and any travel hacks to make the journey smoother. Additionally, any recommendations on what to do upon arrival in Santorini to quickly adjust to the local time and make the most of my stay would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance for your help. I don't plan to go anywhere else in Greece and just want to figure out the best way to minimize travel time and simply just get there as quickly as I can. I have to go for a wedding.

Worst season ever’: How things got ugly on Greece’s ‘Instagram island’

Below is an extract from the article!(Not my opinion which I will write at the end of season)
"When evening comes, however, the crowds melt away, and some complain the island goes from Times Square to ghost town.
'The island is empty’
The truth is that the island is empty. Right now is like never before, it’s the worst season ever
The problem is that the social media are showing something completely different from what is the reality,” he says.
However, when the crowds are gone, “the hotels right now are more or less under 30% of a normal season,” he claims, and says that other businesses on the island are taking a similar hit".

Tips for Exploring Oia

I'm planning a trip to Santorini and I'm particularly excited about exploring Oia. I've heard it's one of the most beautiful and iconic spots on the island, with its stunning sunsets and charming streets.

I'd love to get some tips from those who have been there. Here are a few things I'm curious about:
  • Best viewpoints and locations to watch the sunset
  • Recommended cafes or restaurants with a great view
  • Must-see attractions and hidden gems in Oia
  • Tips for avoiding crowds and finding peaceful spots
  • Any suggestions for unique activities or experiences in Oia
  • Recommendations for local shops or markets to visit
  • Advice on the best time of day to explore and take photos
I appreciate any insights or advice you can share to help make my visit to Oia unforgettable. Looking forward to your suggestions!
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