I've wanted to visit Santorini for years. Those photos of white-washed buildings with blue domes against a blazing sunset? They got me. So when I finally booked a trip for June 2026, I was hyped. But I also knew the reputation: Santorini is overcrowded, overpriced, and overhyped. I'd heard stories of cruise ship crowds blocking narrow streets, of restaurants charging €40 for a mediocre pasta, of tourists fighting for selfie spots in Oia. I went in with low expectations. And honestly? I was pleasantly surprised.
Yes, Santorini is crowded. Yes, it's expensive. But if you know where to go and what to skip, it's still one of the most beautiful places on Earth. After a week on the island, here's my honest guide to experiencing Santorini without losing your mind — or your savings.
First, Choose Your Base Wisely
Most tourists stay in Fira (the capital) or Oia (the famous sunset village). Both are beautiful, but both are packed. I stayed in Imerovigli, a quieter village between Fira and Oia. It's known as the "balcony of Santorini" because of its elevated views of the caldera. My hotel, the Astra Suites, had a private plunge pool overlooking the volcano. It was expensive — €350 a night — but worth every euro. The quiet, the views, the peace. I'd wake up at 6 AM and have the entire path to myself. No crowds, no noise. Just the sound of the wind and the sea.
If you're on a budget, consider Pyrgos or Megalochori. Both are inland villages that are less touristy but still charming. You'll need a rental car or ATV to get around, but you'll save money and avoid the crowds.
The Sunset in Oia: Is It Worth the Chaos?
Let's talk about the elephant in the room: the Oia sunset. Every evening, hundreds of people gather at the castle ruins to watch the sun dip into the Aegean. It's a scene. I went on a Tuesday, and even then, it was shoulder-to-shoulder. People were jostling for position, selfie sticks were everywhere, and the atmosphere was more stressful than serene.
My advice? Skip the castle. Instead, walk down to the old port or find a spot on the path between Oia and Fira. The sunset is the same — the sun doesn't care where you're standing — but the experience is much more pleasant. I found a bench near the Ammoudi Bay steps and watched the sunset in relative peace. Just me, a bottle of local wine, and the sound of waves. Perfect.
Food: Don't Eat in the Tourist Traps
The restaurants along the caldera in Fira and Oia are expensive and often mediocre. I made the mistake of eating at a place in Oia with a view — the moussaka was dry, the service was slow, and the bill was €60 for two people. Not worth it.
Instead, eat where the locals eat. In Fira, find a place called To Trikyklo. It's a tiny family-run taverna with no view but incredible food. The grilled octopus was tender and smoky, the fava bean dip was creamy, and the tomato fritters were crispy. Total bill: €25 for two people with wine. In Pyrgos, try Kasteli Taverna. The lamb kleftiko was the best I've ever had — slow-cooked for hours, falling off the bone, served with roasted potatoes. I went back twice.
Also, don't skip the bakeries. Zouras in Fira has the best spanakopita and baklava on the island. Grab a pastry and a coffee for breakfast. It'll cost you €5 and make you happier than any €30 hotel breakfast.
Activities That Are Worth Your Time
Everyone does the same things: boat tour, wine tasting, hike from Fira to Oia. They're popular for a reason, but some are better than others.