Top Attractions | Stays and Food Spots | Trip Recommendations | Transport | LuxHacks | Itinerary | Cost Breakdown
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It is no secret that Santorini is the epitome of breathtaking sunsets, stunning views, and fresh seafood. However, as incredible as it sounds, experiencing all the beauty and luxury Santorini offers can certainly put a dent in your wallet.
But don’t worry, you’re in the right place! After months of research and a personal visit to the island, I’m excited to share my recommendations for an unforgettable, romantic, and luxurious experience—all at an affordable price.
While some of my suggestions may not be the cheapest options, this guide strikes a balance by mixing affordable activities with a few splurges, ensuring you get the most out of your Santorini trip without breaking the bank.
The Arrival – To save travel time, plan one trip by flight and, for the full experience, book another via ferry. It’s recommended to arrive by flight to enjoy the sunset on your arrival day and take the ferry back to Athens. This is also a huge benefit for those who plan to drive on the island. The roads to the port are narrow and winding, and it’s easier to drive downhill when returning, rather than going uphill when entering the island.
The Stay – Good 4-star hotels with great views offer similar experiences to the more expensive 5-star ones. Opt for a high-range suite in a 4-star hotel with a sunset view, and I can promise you won’t disappoint. Many 4-star, like Sophia Luxury Suites offers better views than their expensive counterparts. Cocoon suites offers an exclusive winery and traditional cave like suites. Browse the affordable cave suites in santorini.
Although hotels in Oia are tourist-friendly, I personally recommend staying in Imerovigli. Situated at the highest point of the caldera than Oia and Fira, Imerovigli offers some of the best 4-star hotels and mesmerizing sunsets. It is also less crowded. However, since it is located quite high on the cliff, you will need to walk some stairs. So, be cautious when booking in Imerovigli if you have health-related concerns. In that case, Fira might be a better option for you.
If you like staying in the hustle bustle then hotels in fira has an advantage of being close to many good walkable food places.
The Food – Food is excellent all over the island. Fira, being the capital, has the most restaurants, with Oia coming in second. Seabream, a common catch from the Aegean Sea, is a must-try. The island is also known for its great local wines, thanks to its many wineries.
The Transport – Uber and taxis are expensive on the island. If you’re comfortable driving, renting a car will be a better and cheaper option. However, parking could be an issue in the busy months and be aware that the roads are steep and narrow, making it stressful to drive along the cliffs. If you’re an intermediate mountain driver, take the sea-level roads instead of those along the cliffs (map below for the alternate route).
But be aware that you need to drive uphill or downhill to reach your hotel, as the hotels with the best views are located on the cliffs, especially if you are staying in Imerovigli or Oia.
The Sunset and Blue Domes – Well! what can I say Santorini’s Sunset is something to keep with you forever. Imerovigli view point offers one of the best sunset on the island. Watch the sunset while hiking the path from oia to fira. Take pictures in front of the iconic blue domes of Oia.
The Cruise – Don’t miss taking a cruise day trip to see the Red, White, and Black Beaches. The cruise stops in the sea, where you can experience a natural hot spring, swim, or simply bask in the sun.
The Month – The best months to visit the island are between April and September. If you’re someone like me who enjoys experiencing the local vibe, then consider visiting between late September and early November. While some hotels begin closing by mid to late October, you’ll still find great options like Sophia Luxury Suites, and this is your chance to grab the best deals.
Other Noteworthy Mentions – Keep an afternoon to visit a winery and roam around the beaches downhill from the cliff such as, Baxedes, Pori and Monolithos. Visit Pyrgos village, top most point of the island and explore the village to get the local experience.
The island is not very big and 3 days 2 nights offers a perfect balance to experience the top attractions of the place. I have put together an Itinerary with cost breakdown to help you plan your next trip.
| Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 |
|---|---|---|
| – Arrive at the hotel in the late afternoon. – Get ready to enjoy the sunset from your room. – Walk to the nearest blue dome for sunset pictures. – Stroll around Fira and end the day by dining in Fira. | – Visit the Blue domes and three bells to take pictures – Stroll the local market of Oia until the pre-booked cruise company picks you up. – Spend the day sailing on the Aegean Sea and visiting the famous beaches | – Wake up early for hiking the path of Oia to Fira. It’s a full 2 hours hike, but you can do half. – Visit the churches and Ammoudi bay in Oia – Drive around the downhill beaches to your way to pyrgos and down to the port for departure |
| Cost Breakdown of an Approximate 3 day 2 night in Santorini Stay (in CAD) | |
|---|---|
| Hotel : $650-$900 per night Transport (car rent) : $150-$200 Food : $500 Cruise Charges with food and BBQ : $200 Misc : $100 Total : $2250-$2800 (the cost of stay significantly goes down if you travel in fall) |
“Thank you for reading until the end!”
— the_affordableLuxury_Diary
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