Santorini.. the iconic whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and breath-taking sunsets, it’s a dream destination for many travellers like myself. The main question still stands: Is Santorini expensive? The island is known for its luxurious accommodations, romance and stunning sunsets it’s also possible to experience its magic on a budget.
There’s options for every traveller here, from affordable seaside stays to wallet-friendly meals and local adventures. Let’s explore further how to enjoy this stunning island without breaking the bank!
We stayed in Perissa in August 2024 for 4 days, had a wonderful time on a budget so hope we can help with your planning too!
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When to Visit
The best way to get that budget trip to Santorini is by planning the right time to visit. Peak season (June to August) sees inflated prices for accommodations, food, and activities. The weather around that time can be 27-30 degrees and perfect for swimming and sunbathing if you love the guaranteed heat. This is also when most of the cruise ships and tourists arrive, so the island gets extremely busy, especially Fira and Oia.
Instead, visit during the shoulder seasons of April-May or September-October. The weather is still gorgeous during the day but maybe slightly colder nights, the crowds thinner, and the prices much friendlier. I would avoid visiting off-season between Nov-Feb, this is the rainy season and temperatures dip well below 10 degrees. Locals have explained that many restaurants and bars close during this season, where the workers may go back across to Athens or back to their home town.
We did go in peak season, due to getting a good flight deal, if we went back would definitely go out of season. We witnessed thousands of tourists pile off ships, gather for sunsets for photos and the hustle and bustle of Fira was not enjoyable while visiting there.
Getting to Santorini
Flying from England to Santorini on a budget requires a combination of careful planning and smart choices.
- For your flight to Santorini Use and Check budget airlines like Ryanair, Jet2 and easyJet. All fly to Santorini (Thira) from the UK, they will have different deals at different times across airports near you. Check Skyscanner for best deals.
- Look for flights from smaller regional airports if they offer better deals. – We live in Newcastle but often fly from Leeds and Edinburgh due to Ryanair having different destinations from these.
- Flights are usually cheaper if you book in advance
- Be flexible with dates! Use SkySkanners whole month option and flying through the week. – Scotland have different school holidays to England which is why we got cheap flights (in the holidays) from Edinburgh.
- Travel light! – Do you need a check in bag for a few days in the sun? you will save money and skip queue’s. This bag has been my ultimate saviour while travelling. Primark duffel
- While researching your flights and hotels, look for flight + hotel package deals on platforms like Jet2Holidays or Expedia, as these can sometimes offer better value for your budget in Santorini than booking separately.
Getting Around the Island
Santorini’s transportation system is very very simple! Also very laid back, being on a small Greek Island. No trains, metros, with buses and taxi’s being the main methods of transport.
Bus Travel
Buses in Santorini are very cheap and will be best for your budget. Obviously not as efficient as taxi’s and even though running to a schedule can be a little late but they do a really good job. We used buses regularly, both day and night. Prices slightly differ from around $1.50-$3 dependent on route and time of day. You must at least try the bus while in Santorini, some routes are very scenic especially if you get a window seat!
Buses only take cash, so make sure you carry some change!
The main bus station is in Fira, for example we had to take 2 buses at times as we were staying in Perissa. Perissa – Fira. Fira – Oia. This would be the same for Kamari, the port etc. Check times in advance and in off-season buses run less regular.
Car Travel in Santorini
If your budget stretches renting a car in Santorini would give you a great amount of freedom to explore the rural parts of the island! Make sure you have an international driving licence which you can get online before you go!
Even though not as cheap as public transport, renting a car really isn’t that expensive. Starting at around £20, you can rent a car locally while in Santorini or use Booking.com or Kayak before your trip.
Taxi’s in Santorini
Taxi’s are the most expensive option in Santorini, I pre-booked on Booking.com a one way taxi and then had our hotel book our taxi back to the airport. They don’t use meters so will just give you a quote which can vary. I advise using taxi’s only if necessary.
Other modes of transport
- Bicycles or e-bikes – rent by Santorini Adventures
- Scooter/Quad rentals, rent from a local rental shop
See and Do While on a Budget
Visit the Beaches
Santorini is home to some of the most unique beaches in the world, thanks to its volcanic origins. Two of the most famous are the Black Beach and the Red Beach, each offering a one-of-a-kind experience.
The Black Beach, located in Perissa and Perivolos, is known for its dramatic black sand and pebbles, a result of the islands volcanic activity. The beach stretches along the crystal-clear Aegean Sea, with the towering Mesa Vouno mountain adding to its striking scenery. A beach to relax while having restaurants and beach bars alongside.
The Red Beach, located near Akrotiri, is just as breath taking. Its vibrant red cliffs and sands, shaped by ancient volcanic activity, create a surreal landscape. You can reach it by a short hike or boat, making the journey part of the adventure, or 20 minute drive from Fira. Best for snorkelling but there are no beach bars, few sunbeds so bring what you need! A day exploring beaches in Santorini is also great for the budget.
Spend the Day in Oia
Oia is known for its iconic whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and picturesque windmills. Take the day to simply wander through the beautiful, small streets, take stunning photos, and take in the beauty of Santorini. Treat yourself to a drink or meal at one of the caldera-edge restaurants taking in the views and visit the clothes, jewellery, gift shops.
Oia also has a few art galleries worth exploring. Don’t miss a walk to the Kasteli of Agios Nikolaos or the historic windmills, both offering unique perspectives of the town. While Oia is magical at sunset, its popularity means it can get quite crowded, especially during the summer months—so plan ahead to make the most of your visit.
Trip to the Volcano and Hot Springs
You can’t visit Santorini without a visit to experience the island’s volcanic roots. Take an organised boat tour to Nea Kameni, where you can hike to the top of the active volcanic crater and enjoy stunning panoramic views. Afterward, sail to the nearby hot springs at Palea Kameni, where you can relax in warm, mineral-rich waters. Our tour also took us to the small island of Thirassia, traditional Greek life remains untouched with amazing food.
Wear dark swimwear, the sulfur rich waters can discolour if not! Tours start at €20 and are different lengths of time, may include sunset, extra options. Click for Get Your Guide or book with tour guides at Fira Port.
Explore Ancient Akrotiri
Akrotiri is a fascinating 3,500-year-old town that was once a thriving Minoan city and a vital port in the Aegean Sea. In the 17th century BCE, a massive volcanic eruption buried the town in ash, preserving it so well that it’s often called the “Greek Pompeii.” Today, you can walk through its remarkably intact streets, buildings, staircases, and even second-story structures. Entry costs 15 EUR, and skip-the-line tickets are available.
Hike from Fira to Oia
For adventure lovers, the hiking trail from Fira to Oia is an absolute must. This scenic route is completely free and offers breathtaking views of Santorini from a whole new perspective. It’s around 6 miles, the hike typically takes about two hours, but if you enjoy a leisurely pace and love capturing photos along the way, you might find yourself taking closer to four hours. Remember bring some water!
Where to Stay to Suit your Budget
While on our trip in August we stayed in Perissa and couldn’t recommend it enough! Both Perissa and Kamari are known to be significantly cheaper to the caldera-view areas like Fira and Oia.
- Accomodation, like ours in Perissa, includes extra ammenties such as as pools at a budget-friendly rate.
- Perissa is known for it’s black sand beach, it was lovely in the heat being able to walk for a relaxing few hours here.
- Perissa is less crowded and touristy, drinks and food were significantly cheaper in the local bars/restaurants.
- The area is more authentic, having local tavernas and family-run shops
We went to Santorini in peak-season, we went to visit Fira and Oia using public transport and I loved having the opportunity to come back to Perissa to the sea, pool and relaxing atmosphere after the hustle and bustle.
Please book Philoxenia Hotel & Studios, the hotel and amenities are beautiful at a budget price of £460 for 4 nights in peak season in Santorini. A family-run hotel, the owners will do anything for you, such a lovely family! Other visitors return which says enough, also local wine for €2.
Money Saving Tips
- Avoid staying in Oia and Fira – transportation is good, you can see all of the main attractions by getting a bus from areas across the island for a fraction of a cost
- Eat in local backstreet restaurants – The cliffside restaurants are very expensive along the Caldera, maybe go there for a drink for photos and views after food
- Book in advance – Especially for trips or if you want to book a table in a well-known bar/restaurant in the summer months
- Drink local beer or wine, go for happy hour or buy at a local shop to save money
- Eat at a local bakery, they sell so many home made goods at low prices or go for a Gyros (street food) which will fill you for a long time and are VERY good.
- Buy souvenirs in markets and local village shops rather than crowded shops in Oia.
- Explore on foot, which is free and scenic. In Fira you may want to try the cable car once but there was also a queue from the cruises and people walk up and down the hill for free, like we did.
Average Costs
Final Words
Santorini’s beauty is undeniable, and while it can be a pricey destination, it doesn’t have to be. With thoughtful planning, budget-friendly choices, and a little flexibility, you can enjoy the stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences without overspending. Think about where abouts you stay and when you visit the island as these factors will have the main effect. Enjoy your trip!
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