Santorini, a picture-perfect island, is part of the wider Cyclades group. It's famed for its dramatic views, particularly at sunset, when the whitewashed buildings glow in the fading light. While the paradisical beaches are the main draw to the island, there's plenty more to experience, including ancient ruins and open-air cinemas. End the day with a hearty meal at a local taverna for the perfect Greek adventure.
What to know before booking Santorini flights and hotels
Passengers arriving for a weekend in Santorini can fly directly to the island's international airport (JTR) with a flight to Santorini from Cork. You can take a local bus to the town of Firá before connecting to your final destination. Taxis are readily available from outside the terminal building, and it's advised to agree on a price before you travel. The local currency in Greece is the euro, and Santorini is two hours ahead of the United Kingdom.
When is the best time to visit Santorini?
The best time for city breaks in Santorini is between late April and early November. Throughout this long summer period, the weather is warm enough for the beach and there is little rainfall. If you prefer it hot, then July and August are the best time for package holidays in Santorini, easily reachable with a flight from Dublin.
What to do in Santorini
See the archaeological excavation site at the ruins of the city of Akrotiri for an excellent half-day adventure. Santorini also has many iconic Greek windmills that can be visited on an organised tour or by yourself on foot. A stroll around these structures provides an excellent insight into times past and makes for a perfect photo opportunity.
The Santorini sunset is world famous and a must see. Two of the top spots offering the best vistas at dusk are Oia’s Byzantine Castle and the Akrotiri lighthouse. In the evening, head to the village of Kamari and catch a film at the stunning open-air cinema. Sit back in a cosy director's chair, sip a cocktail and tuck into some post-dinner popcorn when you book a flight to Santorini.
Places to visit in Santorini
Seeing the island from a boat is a must on a weekend in Santorini. It's only from the water that you can truly appreciate the sheer imposing beauty of the island. Arrange for a boat at the charming port of Skala in Firá, the capital of Santorini, which is brimming with whitewashed houses. The town of Oia on the northern tip of the island, home to an iconic blue-domed church, is a delightful place to spend the afternoon. Take a stroll among the zigzag paths and pop into the range of boutiques and cafés. Other highlights to visit on city breaks in Santorini include:
Ancient Thira, an ancient city located on the imposing, 360-metre-high Messavouno mountain
the Museum of Prehistoric Thira in Fira, the former site of the old Ypapanti Church
Nea Kameni, a stunning uninhabited island situated just off the coast of Santorini, and an excellent half-day trip
What to eat during package holidays in Santorini
Greece is known for its fabulous use of fresh local ingredients, and Santorini is no exception. Dine on tomato fritters for a light lunch or opt for saganaki (fried cheese in filo pastry covered in honey). Greek salads are an excellent accompaniment to every meal, and classic lamb kofta is a simple but delicious dish that can be eaten any time of day.
What can you bring back from a holiday in Santorini?
Greek wine, or a bottle of the local spirit, ouzo, is a wonderful moment of any trip to Santorini. The country produces an incredibly diverse range of wines, from full-bodied reds to light and crisp whites. Greece also offers numerous beauty products, from mascara to shampoos, often made with all-natural ingredients. Local brand Korres has its own research lab where they incorporate the healing properties of local plants – an ideal present to yourself or friends. Some other excellent souvenirs to purchase when you book a Santorini flight and hotel include a pot of local honey or a pack of the local spices – recreate Greece's iconic dishes once you return home.