Key Facts About Santorini, Greece

Dreaming of whitewashed villages and sunset views over the Aegean? This Key Facts guide to Santorini, Greece covers everything you need to know about this iconic island — from the best places to stay and top attractions to must-try local foods and travel tips. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, summer escape, or bucket-list adventure, Santorini is a destination that promises beauty, culture, and unforgettable memories.

8/7/20251 min read

📍 Location

Santorini is a volcanic island in the southern Aegean Sea, part of the Cyclades archipelago, about 200 km southeast of mainland Greece.

🌅 Why Visit?

Santorini is world-famous for its dramatic caldera cliffs, blue-domed churches, romantic sunsets, and luxurious cliffside resorts. A destination perfect for honeymooners, adventurers, and photographers alike.

🏖️ Must-See Attractions
  • Oia Village – Famous for sunset views and whitewashed buildings

  • Fira – The lively capital with shops, cafes, and cliffside views

  • Red Beach & Black Beach – Unique volcanic sand beaches

  • Ancient Akrotiri – Preserved ruins of a Minoan Bronze Age city

  • Santorini Caldera – Stunning sea-filled volcanic crater

  • Pyrgos – A charming hilltop village with panoramic views

📸 Instagram-Worthy Spots
  • Oia’s blue domes

  • Sunset over Amoudi Bay

  • Infinity pools in Imerovigli

  • White stairways overlooking the caldera

  • Heart of Santorini rock formation

🍽️ Food to Try
  • Tomatokeftedes – Santorini tomato fritters

  • Fava me Koukia – Yellow split pea purée

  • Chlorotyri – Local goat cheese

  • Apochti – Cured pork

  • Santorini wine – Especially Assyrtiko (white grape)

🛏️ Where to Stay
  • Oia – Luxury, views, romance

  • Fira – Central, lively, ideal for first-timers

  • Imerovigli – Quiet, luxurious, stunning views

  • Kamari or Perissa – Budget-friendly beachside stays

🗓️ Best Time to Visit
  • Late April to early November

  • May & September – Warm, sunny, fewer crowds

  • July & August – Peak season with vibrant nightlife

✈️ How to Get There
  • By plane – Direct flights from Athens (45 min) or other European cities

  • By ferry – From Athens (Piraeus port), ~5–8 hours depending on ferry speed

🧭 Pro Tips
  • Book accommodations early (especially Oia in summer)

  • Visit Akrotiri in the morning to avoid crowds

  • Use local buses or rent an ATV for easy island exploration

  • Try a sunset catamaran cruise for unforgettable views

  • Don’t miss a wine tasting tour at one of the island’s volcanic vineyards