Santorini, Greece Travel Community

Saving Money in Santorini?

1 - 2 of 2 Posts
redsoxdw_

redsoxdw_

Active member
I'm planning a trip to Santorini but am a bit concerned about the costs. I've heard that it can be quite an expensive destination, especially with all the luxury hotels and high-end restaurants. However, I'm determined to experience the beauty of Santorini without breaking the bank.

Can anyone share tips or advice on how to do Santorini on a budget? I'm looking for affordable accommodation options—maybe hostels, budget hotels, or even good Airbnbs. Also, what are some budget-friendly places to eat where I can still enjoy authentic Greek cuisine?

Are there free or low-cost activities and sights that you would recommend? I'm particularly interested in enjoying the famous sunsets, exploring the villages, and maybe visiting a few beaches or hiking trails.

Any advice on saving money on transportation around the island would also be greatly appreciated.
 
Santorini can be pricey, but there are definitely ways to enjoy it on a budget! For affordable accommodation, look for hostels or budget hotels in areas like Fira or Perissa. Airbnb can also offer great deals if you book in advance.

For budget-friendly dining, consider local tavernas away from the main tourist areas. Places like “Taverna Katina” in Ammoudi Bay or “Gyros Time” in Fira offer delicious Greek food at reasonable prices. Street food like gyros or souvlaki is also a great option.

To experience the famous sunsets without spending a fortune, head to Oia and find a spot away from the main crowds. You can also hike the scenic trail from Fira to Oia for stunning views. Beaches like Perissa and Kamari are free and beautiful.

For transportation, use the local buses or rent an ATV to get around affordably.
 
1 - 2 of 2 Posts
You must log in or register to reply here.

JOIN THE DISCUSSION AND READ OTHER GREEK INFO:

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.

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.

Is Red Beach Worth a Visit?

I'm starting to put together my Santorini itinerary, and Red Beach keeps coming up as one of the island's must-see spots. I've read mixed opinions—some people say it's too crowded, while others say the unique red cliffs and sand make it unlike anywhere else in Greece.

Personally, I think it looks well worth visiting. Even if you don't spend the whole day swimming, it seems like a wonderful place to relax on a beach chair, take in the scenery, or enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the nearby tavernas overlooking the water. Better yet, why not do both? It sounds like the perfect way to spend a relaxing afternoon.

For those of you who have been, what did you think? Did you spend time on the beach, have lunch at a taverna, or both? Would you recommend Red Beach to first-time visitors, or are there other Santorini beaches you enjoyed even more?

How was the airport experience in Santorini?

I’ve been to Santorini a few times, but I’ve always arrived and departed by ferry, never by plane. For my next trip, I’m thinking about flying in or out, depending on how the itinerary shapes up, and I’d love to hear from those of you who’ve actually used the Santorini airport.

How was your experience? Is it as chaotic as some reviews make it sound, or does it just depend on the time of year? I’m curious about everything, check-in lines, baggage claim, the size of the terminal, transportation to and from hotels, even how early you’d recommend arriving before a flight.

I’d also love to know if there’s a big difference between domestic and international departures. Is it worth paying extra for a direct flight, or are the Athens connections smooth enough? Any first-hand details would really help me plan ahead for next year’s trip.

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!
Share and discuss Santorini photos, questions and experiences!

WorldwideGreeks.com is a free online forum community where people can discuss Greek food, travel, traditions, history and mythology.
Join WorldwideGreeks.com here!

JOIN COMMUNITY FOR FREE

LOGIN TO YOUR ACCOUNT
Back
Top