A travel agents holiday to Santorini
Santorini has always been on my bucket list, I thought it might be one of those places that looks amazing on Instagram but doesn't live up to the hype........but it was even more amazing than it looks.
I stayed in the Santorini Palace in Fira with my husband and teenage daughter, the accommodation was spotless with fresh towels and bedding every day, there was always available sunlougers around the pool no matter what time of day you went to the pool. The hotel was in the perfect location, just a couple of minutes walk from the whitewashed buildings and narrow maze of stone-paved alleys perched high on the cliff.
We rented a car to visit other parts of the island, my favourite being Oia which was less than a 30 minute drive from Fira, very similar to Fira but must be seen to be believed. Kamari was another resort we visited which has a promenade with plenty shops and restaurants but also provides water sports where we did some jet-skiing.
If you like to catch the sunset you are spoilt for choice in Santorini, most restaurants give picture perfect views of the sunset but in high season you need to book your table a couple of days in advance to get the best views.
Our favourite experience was watching the sunset with our meal followed by a showing of Mama Mia at Volkan On The Rocks, we booked this a couple of weeks before we travelled as it is really popular and I can see why.
We flew from Manchester and stayed in a hotel the night before departure, booking meet and greet at Manchester airport made everything run so smooth it was the perfect start to our holiday.
Frequently asked questions about Santorini Holidays.
These questions about Santorini are often asked by our customers.
When is the best time to visit Santorini?
The most popular time to visit Santorini is between May and October, when you can expect warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. July and August are typically the hottest and busiest months, while May, June, September and October are great choices if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere.
How long should I spend in Santorini?
A stay of around 5–7 nights gives you plenty of time to enjoy Santorini’s beaches, traditional villages, restaurants and famous sunsets. A longer stay is ideal if you want a slower-paced holiday with plenty of time by the pool or beach.
Which area of Santorini is best to stay in?
It depends on the type of holiday you’re looking for. Oia and Fira are famous for spectacular caldera views, restaurants and sunsets, while Kamari and Perissa are popular choices for beach holidays. Couples may also enjoy the quieter atmosphere and stunning views around Imerovigli.
Is Santorini good for couples?
Yes. Santorini is one of Greece’s most popular destinations for couples, honeymoons and romantic getaways. Think beautiful sunsets, caldera-view restaurants, boutique hotels and scenic villages made for exploring together.
Is Santorini suitable for families?
Santorini can be a great family destination, particularly around resorts such as Kamari and Perissa, where you'll find beaches, restaurants and family-friendly accommodation. Bear in mind that some of the cliffside areas have steep paths and lots of steps, which may be less convenient with very young children or pushchairs.
Does Santorini have good beaches?
Yes, although Santorini's volcanic landscape means its beaches are quite different from the classic white-sand beaches found elsewhere in Greece. Kamari and Perissa are known for their distinctive dark volcanic sand and pebbles, while the island also has striking coastal scenery to discover.
What is Santorini famous for?
Santorini is best known for its whitewashed villages, blue-domed churches, dramatic volcanic caldera and spectacular sunsets. The island is also known for its local food and wine, archaeological sites and unique volcanic beaches.
Where is the best place to watch the sunset in Santorini?
Oia is the island's most famous sunset spot and attracts plenty of visitors in the evening. For something a little different, you can also enjoy fantastic sunset views from Imerovigli, Fira and several restaurants and viewpoints overlooking the caldera.
Is Santorini expensive?
Santorini can be more expensive than some other Greek islands, particularly in popular areas such as Oia and during the peak summer months. However, there are options for different budgets, and staying in resorts away from the caldera can often offer better value.
Do I need to hire a car in Santorini?
Not necessarily. Buses, taxis, transfers and organised excursions make it possible to explore without hiring a car. However, having your own transport can give you more freedom to discover quieter villages, beaches and viewpoints around the island.
What currency is used in Santorini?
Santorini is part of Greece, so the local currency is the euro (€). Cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, although it can be useful to carry some cash for smaller purchases.
What should I pack for a Santorini holiday?
Lightweight clothing, comfortable footwear, swimwear, sunglasses and sun protection are essentials during the warmer months. Comfortable shoes are particularly useful as many of Santorini's villages have cobbled streets, slopes and steps.
Can I visit other Greek islands from Santorini?
Yes. Santorini has ferry connections with a number of other Greek islands, making it a popular choice for an island-hopping holiday. Routes and frequencies vary depending on the season.
What are the best things to do in Santorini?
Popular experiences include exploring Oia and Fira, taking a caldera boat trip, visiting volcanic beaches, sampling local wines, discovering the ancient site of Akrotiri and enjoying a sunset overlooking the Aegean Sea.
Is Santorini good for a first holiday to Greece?
Absolutely. Santorini combines iconic Greek scenery with excellent restaurants, beautiful hotels, beaches, history and plenty of things to see and do, making it a memorable introduction to the Greek islands.
