Many people wonder if Santorini is worth visiting or if it is overhyped. This article might help you decide whether you want to include Santorini on a Greek island hopping trip.
Is a trip to Santorini worth it?
Santorini is one of the most popular destinations in Greece and is known for its dramatic cliffs, stunning sunsets, and picturesque villages. If you’ve seen the photos of the whitewashed houses with blue roofs lining the cliffside, then you know why Santorini is such a popular destination.
There’s no doubt that Santorini is a beautiful place, but it’s also one of the most crowded and touristy islands in Greece. If you’re looking for an authentic Greek island experience, Santorini might not be the right choice for you.
Still, Santorini has a lot to offer visitors, and there are plenty of things to do on the island, from exploring the villages to taking in the incredible views. If you’re willing to deal with the crowds, Santorini can be a magical place to visit.
Misconceptions About Santorini
In order to enjoy Santorini, it’s important to go in with the right expectations. Unfortunately, there are a few misconceptions about the island that can ruin your experience if you’re not prepared for them.
1. Santorini has great beaches
This is one of the most common misconceptions about Santorini. While the island does have some unique beaches, they are of black sand which makes them hot to be on in the summer sun. They are also nowhere near as nice as beaches on other islands such as Mykonos. In short – you don’t go to Santorini for a beach holiday.
2. Santorini is a party island.
Santorini is not known for its nightlife scene. If you’re looking for a party island, you’ll be better off going somewhere else. Sure, you can enjoy the incredible sunsets from tavernas, and enjoy late drinks, but you don’t go to Santorini to go clubbing!
3. You can only see the sunset from Oia
This is another popular misconception. While Oia is undoubtedly the best place to watch the sunset, there are plenty of other places with equally stunning views. In fact, some people prefer to watch the sunset from Fira or Imerovigli as you get a better view of the entire island.
4. You need to be wealthy to visit Santorini
This is simply not true! While Santorini is a bit more expensive than other Greek islands, it’s still possible to visit on a budget. There are plenty of affordable accommodation options and activities, you just need to know where to look. Of course if you visit Greece and Santorini outside of the peak tourist season, it will be more wallet friendly!
5. Santorini is sunny and warm all year long
The weather in Santorini is actually quite variable. In the summer, it can be incredibly hot (sometimes too hot), but in the winter, it can be quite cold and rainy. Off season is December through until the end of March.
6. Santorini is Italian
You would be surprised how many people don’t know that Santorini is actually Greek. People who turn up on cruises ships know they are in Santorini, but sometimes don’t know which country they are in!
7. All of the buildings in Santorini are blue and white
While most of the buildings on Santorini are blue and white, this is not always the case. In fact, there are a few buildings that are very brightly coloured!
Tips for visiting Santorini
In order to have the best trip to Santorini possible, it’s important to know what to expect. Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your trip:
– Santorini is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece, so expect large crowds, especially during peak season (July and August).
– Oia gets very crowded during sunset, so plan accordingly if you want to watch the epic sunset from one of the popular vantage points.
– The island is quite hilly, and almost anywhere with a sunset view requires walking up lots of step. Something to keep in mind if mobility is an issue.
– Many restaurants and hotels in Santorini are overpriced, so do some research in advance to find the best deals.
– Santorini can be quite windy, so be prepared for strong gusts of wind, especially if you’re visiting in the off-season.
Overall, Santorini is a beautiful and unique destination that is definitely worth visiting. Just be sure to go in with the right expectations, and you’re sure to have an amazing time!
Why visit Santorini FAQ
Still undecided on whether or not Santorini is worth visiting? Here’s the most common questions and concerns that people have about Santorini, in order to help you make a more informed decision.
Is it worth to go to Santorini?
This is a tough question to answer, as it depends on what you’re looking for in a holiday destination. Santorini is certainly one of the most beautiful and romantic places in the world, so if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway with stunning scenery, then Santorini is definitely worth considering. However, if you’re looking for a party island with lots of nightlife and activities, then Santorini might not be the best choice.
How many days should you spend in Santorini?
Again, this depends on your personal preferences. If you just want to relax and take in the stunning scenery, then a few days in Santorini would be sufficient. However, if you want to explore the island and do some activities, then you might need a week or more.
Is Santorini very touristy?
Yes, Santorini is a very popular tourist destination, so expect large crowds, especially during peak season (July and August). However, if you visit during the off-season, you’ll find that the island is much quieter.
Why Santorini is so special?
Santorini is special for many reasons, but some of the most popular reasons include its stunning scenery, its unique architecture, and its relaxed atmosphere.
Is Santorini overrated?
This is a matter of opinion, but we think that Santorini definitely lives up to the hype. Sure, it’s touristy and crowded, but it’s also one of the most beautiful places in the world. If you can, avoid visiting Santorini in July and August, and you’ll have a much better vacation!