Santorini, Greece Travel Community

New Raddison hotel opens in Santorini!

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tomipark

tomipark

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Personally, I am not a fan of big chain hotels in Greece (other than airport Hilton, which I have stayed at and is truly amazing). Especially on the Greek islands my thought is leave it independently owned and operated...those are my 2 cents :)
 
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Worldwide Greeks Editor said:
Personally, I am not a fan of big chain hotels in Greece (other than airport Hilton, which I have stayed at and is truly amazing). Especially on the Greek islands my thought is leave it independently owned and operated...those are my 2 cents :)
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I didn't know there was a Hilton Hotel at Elefterios Venizelos airport. When did it open? I'm a frequent visitor and stay at Sofitel at the airport the night before I fly out. Due to Covid I haven't been for 2 years now.

Big chain hotels have one advantage when you are at a foreign country, you know they have a certain standard all over the world so you know what to expect.
 
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Jerry s said:
I didn't know there was a Hilton Hotel at Elefterios Venizelos airport. When did it open? I'm a frequent visitor and stay at Sofitel at the airport the night before I fly out. Due to Covid I haven't been for 2 years now.

Big chain hotels have one advantage when you are at a foreign country, you know they have a certain standard all over the world so you know what to expect.
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Yes, this is very true. I never know when a hotel is good or bad in Greece because the smaller ones don't have many reviews online
 
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Some people really like chain hotels and rely on them when they travel. Like my parents only use a certain hotel chain when they travel. Greece has been tricky for them. If the chain were to have a location in Greece, it would make their lives easier.
 
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Great Walking Paths on Santorini?

I’ve been thinking about Santorini specifically as a place for walking, and I realized it’s something I don’t hear Greeks talk about as much as food, wine, or sunsets. I’m curious how people who know the island well think about walking it, not just as visitors passing through but as a lived landscape.

So I wanted to ask: what are some great walking paths on Santorini? Beyond Fira–Oia, are there routes you’d actually recommend for the views, the quiet, or the feeling of the island itself? I’m especially interested in paths through villages, near vineyards, or stretches that feel more local and less performative. Are there walks that feel better early in the morning, in the wind, or outside peak season?

I’d love to hear which paths you return to or remember most, and what made them stand out for you.

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.

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.

Where have you found the best traditional Santorini food?

I've been thinking about the food in Santorini and wondering where people have found the best traditional Greek meals on the island. There are so many restaurants with beautiful caldera views, but I'm especially interested in places where the food is the main attraction.

I'd love to try some of Santorini's local specialties, especially tomatokeftedes, fava, white eggplant, and dishes that highlight the island's agricultural traditions. I'm particularly interested in smaller family-run tavernas that serve authentic recipes rather than menus designed primarily for tourists.

Have you discovered any restaurants or tavernas that really stood out? Are there particular villages where you've had especially memorable meals?

I'm also curious whether you've found better traditional food away from the popular areas like Oia and Fira. I'd love recommendations for places that offer a genuine taste of Santorini, including any specific dishes worth ordering while visiting the island!

Considering Pyrgos in Santorini to Stay?

I’m considering spending some time in Pyrgos during my next trip to Santorini, and I’d love to hear from people who have visited. I’ve been looking for places that feel a little different from the busier parts of the island, and Pyrgos looks like it could be a great place to explore for a few hours.

For those who have been, what did you enjoy most about Pyrgos? Are there particular streets, churches, viewpoints, shops, or places to eat that you would recommend? I’m especially interested in wandering around, taking photos, enjoying the views, and getting a feel for the village rather than rushing through a list of attractions.

How much time would you suggest spending there? Is half a day enough, or would you stay longer? I’d also love to know whether you think Pyrgos is best visited during the day or closer to sunset.
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