Arriving in Santorini for the first time? Here's everything from getting there and getting around to where to eat, what to see, and the mistakes most visitors make.
Your first time in Santorini will rearrange your expectations. The photos don't lie — the caldera really is that dramatic, the sunsets really are that vivid, and the blue-domed churches really do exist at every turn. But there are things the photos don't tell you, and knowing them will transform your trip from good to extraordinary.
Getting to Santorini
By Air
Santorini (Thira) Airport (JTR) receives direct flights from Athens year-round (45 minutes) and seasonal direct flights from major European cities. The airport is small and can be chaotic in summer. Our advice: pre-book your transfer so someone is waiting for you when you land.
At North Santorini, we offer private airport transfers — your driver will be outside arrivals with your name, and you'll be at the hotel within 20 minutes. After a journey, this small luxury makes a real difference.
By Ferry
Ferries connect Santorini to Athens (Piraeus port, 5–8 hours depending on the vessel) and other Cycladic islands. The high-speed ferries are comfortable and scenic. Athinios Port, where ferries dock, is at the base of steep cliffs — the drive up is dramatic.
When to Visit
SeasonWeatherCrowdsBest ForApril–MayWarm, occasional rainLowHiking, photography, peaceJuneHot, clearModerateBest overall monthJuly–AugustVery hot, windyPeakBeach, nightlifeSeptemberWarm, sea is warmestModerateSwimming, romanceOctoberMild, some rainLowWine harvest, quiet exploration
Where to Stay
Santorini's villages each have a personality:
Pyrgos: Inland medieval village. Authentic, no crowds, excellent tavernas.Where North Santorini is located.
Fira: The capital. Lively, central, good for first-timers who want walkability and nightlife.
Oia: Famous for sunsets. Beautiful but extremely crowded during golden hour.
Imerovigli: One of the highest points of the island. Quieter, with the best views.
Getting Around
ATV/Quad: The most popular option. Affordable, fun, and practical for Santorini's narrow roads. You'll need a license.
Rental car: Best for families or those who want air conditioning. Parking can be challenging in Fira and Oia.
Bus: The KTEL bus system connects major villages. Cheap but crowded in summer.
Taxi: Limited supply, high demand. Pre-booking is essential.
What to See and Do
The Caldera Walk (Fira to Oia)
This 10km clifftop path is the single best free activity on the island. The trail winds along the caldera rim, passing through Imerovigli and offering views that justify the entire trip. Start early morning to avoid the heat, and finish in Oia for a late lunch.
Akrotiri Archaeological Site
A Minoan city preserved under volcanic ash since 1600 BC — often called the "Pompeii of the Aegean." The excavations reveal multi-story buildings, frescoes, and a civilization that was remarkably advanced. Don't skip this.
Sunset Sailing
Watching the sunset from a boat changes everything. The caldera opens up, the volcanic islands pass by, and the famous Oia sunset becomes a 360-degree experience without a single selfie stick in your sightline. Our Classic Cruise includes the hot springs, volcanic islands, and sunset with dinner on board.
Wine Tasting
Santorini's volcanic wines are world-class. Visit Santo Wines for the view, Venetsanos for the architecture, or Gaia for serious winemaking. Most vineyards offer tastings with caldera views.
Akrotiri Lighthouse
The southernmost tip of the island, and the sunset spot locals actually go to. Akrotiri Lighthouse sits on a rocky headland with unobstructed views across the caldera, the open Aegean, and the volcanic islands. No crowds, no entrance fee, no one asking you to move for their photo. Just the edge of the island and the kind of light that makes everything look like a painting. Come at golden hour.
Monastery of Profitis Ilias in Pyrgos
The highest point on Santorini, perched above Pyrgos at 567 metres. The monastery dates back to 1711 and still operates today. But you're coming for the 360-degree panorama — caldera, volcano, vineyards, coastline, and on a clear day, islands scattered across the Aegean like stepping stones. It's the only place on Santorini where you can see the entire island at once. Worth the drive, worth the quiet.
Discover the local Panigiria
The best nights on the island aren't in any bar. If you're here in summer, ask a local about the Panagiria — traditional village festivals held in churchyards and town squares across Santorini. Live music, local wine poured freely, grilled meat, dancing that goes until the early hours. Each village hosts its own on different saint's days, so there's almost always one happening nearby. No tickets. No reservations. Just show up and be welcomed like a neighbour.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Only staying in Oia or Fira. Imerovigli, Pyrgos, and Megalochori offer better value, fewer crowds, and more authentic experiences.
Not booking restaurants in advance. In peak season, the best sunset tables are reserved days or weeks ahead. Plan accordingly.
Skipping the eastern coast. The beaches, Ancient Thera, and the village of Emporio are worth a full day away from the caldera.
Wearing the wrong shoes. Santorini is steep, cobblestoned, and sometimes slippery. Save the heels for dinner.
Rushing through. Three days is the minimum to appreciate Santorini. Five days lets you discover it. A week lets you fall in love with it.
Your First Evening
After settling into your suite, resist the urge to rush out. Pour a glass of wine on your terrace and watch the caldera light shift from gold to pink to deep blue. Then, when you're ready, walk down to Akau Restaurant for dinner. Start with the fava, order whatever fish came in that day, and pair it with a glass of local Assyrtiko. Welcome to Santorini.
Planning your first visit? Explore our experiences and make a reservation — we'll handle the rest.