Santorini, the dazzling gem of the Aegean, is not only a haven for luxury seekers but also a delightful destination for travellers on a budget. Discover the myriad of cheap activities that allow you to immerse in its captivating charm without spending a penny.
Here’s a guide to enjoying the island’s charm affordably.
Two important things to note when visiting Santorini on a budget are:
1. Go out of season – the peak season for holiday makers to Santorini in June to September. If you visit outside of these months, prices will drop and there is more chance to haggle whether that be accommodation, water sports, food or the markets.
2. Stay outside of Oia. Oia is the most expensive place to stay and visit in Santorini due to the cruise ships visiting there on a regular schedule and the most popular tourist hotspot. All other areas of Santorini are cheaper
1. Tantalise your tastebuds at a local taverna
Visiting a local taverna in Santorini offers an authentic and affordable culinary experience. These traditional Greek eateries serve a variety of delicious dishes that reflect the rich flavours of the Mediterranean. For budget-conscious travellers, a taverna is the perfect spot to enjoy a hearty meal without breaking the bank.
Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere, often with live Greek music playing in the background. The menu typically features a range of mezedes (appetizers), fresh salads, grilled meats, and seafood, all prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Opt for sharing plates like the famous Greek salad, tzatziki, or a selection of grilled vegetables to start.
For the main course, consider ordering staple dishes such as souvlaki, moussaka, or fresh fish, which are not only filling but also reasonably priced. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine or ouzo for a complete Greek dining experience.
Tavernas are found throughout Santorini, from busy town centers to quiet seaside locations. To find the most budget-friendly options, consider venturing away from tourist-heavy areas, where prices tend to be higher. With their casual ambiance, friendly service, and delectable food, tavernas offer a delightful and wallet-friendly dining experience for all.
2. Visit the Museum on Prehistoric Thera
The Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Fira is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts, showcasing artifacts from the island’s ancient past. Housing collections from various excavations, the museum provides insight into the life and culture of Santorini’s early inhabitants.
To reach the museum, located in the heart of Fira, you can easily walk if you’re staying in the town. For those residing in other parts of Santorini, public buses, taxis, or rental cars offer convenient transportation options to Fira. Once in the town, follow the signs or use a map to navigate to the museum.
A visit to the Museum of Prehistoric Thera typically requires around 1 to 2 hours, allowing you sufficient time to explore its exhibits without feeling rushed. The museum’s collections include pottery, sculptures, and frescoes unearthed from the archaeological site of Akrotiri, offering a fascinating glimpse into the island’s prehistoric era. Detailed descriptions accompany each exhibit, helping visitors understand the significance of the displayed artifacts.
Before planning your visit, check the museum’s operating hours and any related restrictions or requirements. With its rich collections and informative displays, the Museum of Prehistoric Thera promises a captivating experience for visitors interested in Santorini’s ancient history.
3. Bus Tour
Embarking on a bus tour around Santorini offers a convenient and informative way to explore the island’s enchanting beauty and significant landmarks. Whether taking multiple public buses or an organised tour, there is the ability to travel all around the island.
Tours are typically guided, providing valuable insights into the history, culture, and geography of Santorini, enhancing your sightseeing experience.
A bus trip will efficiently navigate through the island’s highlights, from the iconic blue-domed churches of Oia to the ancient ruins of Akrotiri. You’ll witness the stunning caldera views, visit traditional villages like Pyrgos, and have the opportunity to explore the unique black sand beaches. Each stop offers a different facet of Santorini’s allure, with ample photo opportunities.
The tours are designed to accommodate various schedules, ranging from half-day to full-day options. With the logistics handled, you can relax and immerse yourself in the captivating landscapes and intriguing sites that unfold before your eyes. The comfortable, air-conditioned buses provide a respite from the Mediterranean sun, ensuring a pleasant journey between destinations.
Public buses are relatively easy to navigate and can take travellers all around the island to the main hotspots but also some hidden, more secluded areas that the locals will be travelling to. These buses are extremely cheap and run regularly.
Buses provide those looking to explore Santorini without the expense of taxis and private tours. They will provide a comprehensive overview of the island, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time to explore.
4. Winery Tour
Santorini’s winery tours offer a delightful excursion for wine aficionados and casual drinkers alike, immersing visitors in the island’s ancient winemaking traditions and the unique taste profiles of its celebrated wines. The island is renowned for Assyrtiko, a crisp, aromatic white wine, among other delightful varieties.
Winery tours typically last between 1 to 4 hours, depending on the chosen package. Some tours include visits to multiple wineries, providing a broader understanding and tasting experience of Santorini’s diverse wine offerings. Each winery has its own charm, often featuring stunning views of the island’s landscapes, making the tasting experience even more enjoyable.
During the tour, knowledgeable guides walk you through the vineyards, explaining the peculiarities of Santorini’s viticulture, characterised by its volcanic soil and unique grape-growing techniques. You’ll then be guided through the cellars, learning about the winemaking process from grape to bottle.
The highlight of the tour is the tasting session, where you can savour different wine varieties, often paired with local cheeses, bread, and other snacks that enhance the flavours. With the sun setting over the vineyards, the atmosphere becomes magical, making the winery tour a memorable experience not to be missed while in Santorini.
Whilst visiting wineries, the wine flights start at €25 per person for 6 glasses, but the cheapest way to do it is to buy one glass instead. This is the best way to sample local Santorini wines but not to spend so much.
5. Emporio Village
Emporio Village, nestled in the heart of Santorini, is a captivating destination steeped in history and charm. As the largest village on the island, it’s a labyrinth of narrow lanes, medieval architecture, and beautifully preserved Cycladic houses.
Situated approximately 12 kilometers southeast of Fira, reaching Emporio is straightforward. Regular public buses connect Fira to Emporio, providing an economical travel option. Alternatively, taxis and rental cars offer more flexibility and convenience for the journey.
A visit to Emporio can comfortably fill half a day, allowing you to explore its enchanting streets, discover its historical sites, and soak in its tranquil atmosphere at a leisurely pace. One of the village’s highlights is the fortified medieval castle, Kasteli, offering a glimpse into Santorini’s past and providing stunning views of the surrounding area. The village is also home to notable churches, including the Church of Panagia Mesani, renowned for its exquisite frescoes.
Emporio’s traditional architecture, with its distinctive blue doors and white-washed walls, provides fantastic photo opportunities, while its small cafes and tavernas invite you to relax and enjoy local delicacies. With its rich history, picturesque scenery, and serene ambiance, Emporio Village offers visitors a delightful and authentic Santorini experience.
6. Lighthouse of Akrotiri
The Lighthouse of Akrotiri, situated at the southern tip of Santorini, is a beacon of serene beauty and offers some of the most breathtaking views on the island. Built in 1892, this historic structure stands sentinel over the azure Aegean Sea, providing visitors with a tranquil spot to admire the panoramic scenery and spectacular sunsets.
Reaching the lighthouse is relatively easy. If you’re based in Fira, you can take a bus to Akrotiri village and then enjoy a scenic walk to the lighthouse. For a more direct and comfortable journey, consider renting a vehicle or taking a taxi, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
A visit to the Akrotiri Lighthouse doesn’t require much time; allocating around 1 to 2 hours is sufficient. This allows you to leisurely take in the views, snap photos, and perhaps watch the sun gently dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the sea and sky.
While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, the surrounding area is the main attraction. The cliffside location offers unobstructed views of the caldera and the surrounding islands, making it a popular spot for both tourists and photographers alike. With its combination of historical allure and natural beauty, the Lighthouse of Akrotiri is a must-visit landmark during your Santorini adventure.
7. Ancient Thira
Ancient Thira, perched on the rugged Messavouno mountain, is a fascinating archaeological site that offers a glimpse into Santorini’s rich history. Located between the popular beach resorts of Kamari and Perissa, this ancient city unveils remnants of a civilization that thrived from the 9th century BC until 726 AD.
Upon arriving, you’ll be greeted by ruins that are testament to the various cultures that once inhabited the island, including Dorian, Roman, and Byzantine. The site houses remnants of temples, houses, and public buildings. The ancient agora, the heart of public life, showcases inscriptions and sculptures, providing insights into the city’s social and political activities.
Ancient Thira boasts not only historical treasures but also breathtaking panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, making it a visual delight for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Reaching Ancient Thira can be done by car or on foot for those seeking a challenging hike. The site is open to visitors for a small fee, and it’s advisable to allocate around 2 to 3 hours for your visit to fully appreciate its historical significance and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Before planning your visit, check the opening hours as these can vary depending on the season. With its blend of history and natural beauty, Ancient Thira offers a captivating experience that transports visitors back in time, providing a deeper understanding of Santorini’s multifaceted heritage.