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Santorini, Greece

Island · Cyclades

SantoriniCyclades island guide: villages, beaches & ferries

A volcanic island with villages on top of steep cliffs over a flooded crater. Famous for sunsets, wine and dark-sand beaches.

Ferry
From Piraeus 5–8h; fast boats from Crete, Ios, Naxos
Villages
5
Beaches
4

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Villages & towns

What to see

Akrotiri
Akrotiri
Ancient Thera
Ancient Thera
Nea Kameni
Nea Kameni
Skaros Rock
Skaros Rock

Beaches

Red Beach beach, Santorini
Red Beach
Perissa beach, Santorini
Perissa
Kamari beach, Santorini
Kamari
Vlychada beach, Santorini
Vlychada

Photos: Wikimedia Commons

Food

Restaurants in SantoriniSee menus and book a table

Getting there & around

From Piraeus 5–8h; fast boats from Crete, Ios, Naxos

Map

Common questions

How do I get to Santorini?

From Piraeus 5–8h; fast boats from Crete, Ios, Naxos

Where should I stay on Santorini?

Popular bases include Fira, Oia, Imerovigli, Pyrgos. Pick based on the beaches and ferry port you want close by.

What are the best things to do on Santorini?

Highlights include Akrotiri, Ancient Thera, Nea Kameni, Skaros Rock.

What are the best beaches on Santorini?

Well-known beaches include Red Beach, Perissa, Kamari, Vlychada. On windy days, choose a beach on the side facing away from the wind.

Is there Uber or taxis on Santorini?

Uber does not operate on Santorini; use the local taxis. Very few taxis for the crowds. Pre-book port and airport transfers in summer; KTEL buses run from Fira.

Can ferries to Santorini be cancelled because of wind?

Yes, it can happen. Strong north winds (the meltemi, mostly July and August) can delay or cancel sailings, smaller fast boats first. Check the wind forecast for your travel day and confirm with your ferry company or the port authority before leaving.

Which islands are near Santorini?

Other islands in the Cyclades include Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Antiparos, Milos. Check the island-hopping tool to see which ones have direct ferries.

Is Santorini in the Cyclades?

Yes. Santorini is part of the Cyclades island group in Greece.

Guides about Santorini

Photos from Wikimedia Commons. Map © OpenStreetMap contributors. Lists are highlights, not every place on the island.