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AlexiaTravels

Active member
Hi all! I’m planning a trip to Santorini later this year with a bigger group—about 8 of us, all adults—and I’d love some tips from anyone who’s done it before.

We’re trying to figure out the best area to stay that’s scenic but also practical for a group (maybe with a villa or multiple rooms close together). Are Oia or Fira still good choices, or should we look elsewhere for better space and value?

Also, any advice on getting around with a group? Should we rent a van, book a driver, or rely on taxis? I have never traveled in a group this large before.
 
Sounds like an amazing trip! For a group of 8, I’d definitely recommend looking into villas—there are quite a few stunning ones in both Oia and Fira that offer multiple bedrooms and shared spaces, perfect for hanging out together while still having some privacy. Oia is postcard-beautiful and quieter, but Fira is more central and better for getting around the island. Imerovigli is a great in-between option—less crowded than Oia, still scenic, and usually better value for groups.

As for getting around, I’d skip taxis—hard to find and pricey for a group that size. Renting a van or hiring a private driver is way more convenient and can actually be cost-effective when you split it. If you’re planning to explore the island (beaches, wineries, sites like Akrotiri), having your own transport makes the trip way smoother.
 
I booked a quiet weekend there a few months ago, and the vibe was perfect for a low-key romantic trip. I checked movenpickresortkhaoyai.com before going, and it made it easy to pick a villa and sort out reservations. If you’re into laid‑back views, big gardens, and having wedding or event options on standby, it’s a pretty sweet spot to keep on your list.
 

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?

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.

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.

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 for an Anniversary Trip

A friend of mine is thinking about going to Santorini for an anniversary trip, and she asked me for suggestions. I’ve been to Santorini quite a few times over the years, but almost always as part of family trips, so my experiences there have been a little different from what she’s looking for.

She’s only been to the island once before and really loved it, so she wants to go back and make it a special anniversary trip with her husband. The problem is that I’m realizing most of my recommendations are things families tend to do, and I’m not as sure what the best ideas would be for a more romantic visit.

For those of you who have gone to Santorini as a couple, what did you enjoy most? Are there particular villages, hotels, restaurants, or experiences that felt especially romantic? I’d love to pass along some good ideas to her.
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