Cheap Holidays to Santorini

Other popular cheap holidays

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Other popular holidays in Santorini

For a rural retreat, take a look at Megalochori and explore the exquisite local vineyards and winding alleys of the village, all untouched by time. If it’s non-stop action you’re after, head to the capital Thira where you’ll find plenty of excursions and all-night parties. For more inspiration, take a look at our Santorini travel guide and some of our best budget hotels below.

Cheap days out in Santorini

When you’re not busy working on your tan by the pool or enjoying a stroll along the island’s black sand beaches, there are plenty of activities to do on the cheap. For a memorable evening, head to the outdoor cinema – listed as one of Europe’s best – in Kamari to kick back in a deck chair under the stars and watch both latest releases and old favourites.

Several opportunities exist for exploring ancient ruins and the network of paths that connect coastal resorts to many of the sites. From Thira, budding hikers can tackle the three-hour trek to Oia where you can meander through the town’s alleyways and stairwells before watching the famed sunset. Or, simply climb to the top of Mesa Vouno Mountain near Perissa and gaze across the glistening ocean.

Budget breaks to the island of luxury

In little over three and a half hours from UK airports, you could be traversing the picturesque towns of this spectacular island or relaxing on a volcanic sand beach in the Greek sun.

High season across most of the Greek islands runs from June through to September, when the weather is at its hottest. You’ll want to book at least eight weeks ahead of time to capture the best offers, or you can visit in late spring or early autumn for fantastic shoulder season hotel deals.

Perissa is the best swimming beach on Santorini, boasting warm, tranquil water and appetising restaurants spread along the beach front. Further down the coastline, Perivolos has a vibrant beach scene packed with watersports, from parasailing to stand up paddle boarding. Perivolos is also within walking distance of many ancient and historic monuments.

While the island may exude tranquility and relaxation, you’ll find buzzing nightlife in the larger coastal resorts and the easily-accessed capital, Thira.

Aegean Plaza Hotel

Located in a quiet residential area, this 4* retreat is just minutes from the black sands of Karami Beach and a wealth of restaurants, shops and bars. Bask in the sun by the elegant pool or hop into the hot tub with a glass of something fizzy as the temperature begins to dip. After tucking into some authentic Greek mezze in a local taverna, retire to your stylish bedroom decorated in muted and contemporary tones with a nightcap on your private balcony.

Atlantis Beach Villa

This fabulous hotel is ideally located between Perissa and Perivolos, a 10-minute stroll from the abundance of restaurants and bars in both resorts. Overlooking Perivolos Beach, relax on the volcanic black sand gazing out to sea or pull up a sunlounger around the lagoon-style pool in the landscaped courtyard. Guests can climb to the top of the imposing Mesa Vouno Mountain – towering – behind the resort and explore the remains of a 9th-century Dorian colony or take advantage of a 50% discount at the local waterpark.

Black Sandy Beach

Just a three-minute walk from the volcanic sands of Perissa Beach, this cute, family-run hotel is a stone’s throw from the resort’s main road, where you’ll find plenty of pocket-friendly restaurants and bars. Relax on the poolside sun terrace with a cocktail or lounge in a hammock with your favourite book. Decorated with wooden furniture and local artwork, all rooms come fully air-conditioned with private balconies overlooking the resort. Regular public transport runs from Perissa to the capital Thira, so you can explore ancient ruins and the blue-domed city.