You’ll understand Santorini’s legendary status as one of, or perhaps the, most beautiful Greek islands as soon as you glimpse it from a boat. There’s something almost otherworldly about the multi-coloured cliffs that jut out of the sea, and are topped with a sprinkling of whitewashed houses.

Going on holiday in Santorini is all about taking things nice and easy. For most visitors, Santorini holidays aren’t about busy itineraries or checking sites off a bucket list. They’re about meandering slowly through quaint villages, lingering over delicious meals, and finding the best spot to watch the sunset. 

Language: Greek   |   Currency:  Euro (€) |   Local time: UTC+2:00    |   Average flight time: 6 hrs

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Gaze at jaw-dropping scenery

Santorini’s defining feature is its magnificent caldera, which was formed more than 3,500 years ago by one of the biggest volcanic eruptions in history. The island is still an active volcano, with rugged lava cliffs towering 300m (984ft) over the deep blue waters of the caldera below.

Walk along the edge of the caldera, following the path from Fira to Oia, for the best perspective on the island’s magical landscape. Santorini’s red and black sand beaches are also memorable, and its photogenic sunsets are justifiably famous around the world. 

Explore the island’s charming towns

Most travellers who score cheap Santorini holidays will find themselves staying in the capital of Fira, which offers wonderful views over the caldera and a buzzing atmosphere.

But with its cubical white houses and domed churches, the town of Oia is perhaps the island’s star attraction. Its iconic sunsets and quieter ambiance make it a mecca for handholding honeymooners. Head inland to visit lesser-known villages such as Megalochori, Emporio and Pyrgos, where traditional Greek culture still thrives.

Discover the ancient past

Home to a number of intriguing archaeological sites, Santorini is a rewarding destination for the culturally curious. The most impressive site is Akrotiri, a Minoan town preserved for millennia under volcanic lava.

Ancient Thira is also fascinating, with a history that stretches back to the 9th century BC. For true history buffs, the excellent museums in Fira are great places to find out more about Santorini’s rich history. 

When to go

The best time of year for all-inclusive holidays in Santorini is late spring or early autumn, when the sea is warm enough for swimming and temperatures average around 25C (77F). Crowds are minimal and it’s possible to nab cheap deals on Santorini hotels too. Just don’t plan to go in late autumn, as facilities begin to close down and the weather can be wet.

If you can, it’s best to avoid the peak travel seasons of July and August when booking your holiday. Temperatures hover around a scorching 30C (86F), prices for hotels and other services are at their peak, and the island is swarmed with crowds of tourists. Unsurprisingly, it’s difficult – but not impossible – to find decent all-inclusive deals in Santorini during this time of year.

Events for your diary

Santorini Jazz Festival: Founded by two local jazz enthusiasts, this fun event is held in the town of Kamari every July. The festival is well known throughout Greece, and attracts musicians from around the world.