Santorini, with its iconic whitewashed buildings and stunning sunsets, is a dream destination for many. But how much does it really cost to experience this slice of paradise? Let’s break it down.
First off, airfare can vary significantly depending on where you’re flying from and the time of year. From major U.S. cities like New York or Los Angeles, round-trip tickets typically range from $600 to over $1,200 during peak season (June to September). If you're flexible with your travel dates or willing to fly into nearby islands first before taking a ferry, you might snag a better deal.
Once you've landed in Greece, getting to Santorini involves either a domestic flight or an adventurous ferry ride. A short flight from Athens costs around $50-$100 one way; ferries are often cheaper but take longer—expect about 35-70 euros depending on the type of boat and speed.
Accommodation is another significant expense. The island offers everything from budget hostels at around €30 per night to luxurious cliffside villas that can run upwards of €500 per night—or even more if you're looking for something truly special. Mid-range hotels generally hover between €100-€250 per night during high season.
Food prices also fluctuate widely based on your dining choices. You could enjoy a meal at a local taverna for as little as €15-€20 per person or indulge in fine dining experiences that may set you back €60 or more each time you sit down for dinner.
Activities add another layer to your budget considerations: wine tours average around €80 per person; sunset cruises can be found starting at about €50 but go up quickly based on luxury options and inclusions such as meals and drinks.
Transportation within Santorini includes buses (very affordable), taxis (more expensive), or renting an ATV—a popular choice among tourists—which usually costs about €25-€40 daily.
So what’s the bottom line? For a week-long trip including flights, accommodation in mid-range hotels, meals at local restaurants, some activities like tours and transportation expenses—you might expect anywhere between $1,500 to $3,000 per person if you're watching your spending closely yet still want to savor all that Santorini has to offer.
Ultimately though—while it's easy enough to tally these numbers—it’s important not just how much money you'll spend but also what memories you'll create against those breathtaking backdrops.