17 travel mistakes to avoid in Santorini: What you should absolutely not do

The good news? There are very few places in the world as breathtaking as Santorini. The not-so-good news? It’s also one of the easiest destinations to get wrong if you arrive unprepared.

Between the packed sunset viewpoints and countless experiences competing for your attention, a little planning goes a long way. 

In this guide, we’ll share the most common mistakes to avoid in Santorini as a first-timer, along with practical tips to help you enjoy a smoother, more memorable visit to the island. So keep reading to uncover them all!

 

Santorini mistake #1: Overpacking your schedule

One of the biggest rookie pitfalls is trying to tick off every “must-see” attraction you came across on Instagram or TikTok. But the truth is, there’s no universal “perfect” itinerary. What’s worth seeing depends entirely on your travel style, interests and pace.

Love history? Prioritize museums and archaeological sites. Foodie? Spend your days hopping between wineries, family-run taverns and local experiences like this walking Santorini food tour.

Rather than trying to see everything, choose the activities that genuinely excite you. This way, you’ll leave with far better memories than if you simply followed someone else’s agenda.

 

Santorini mistake #2: Choosing your accommodation based only on the view

It’s easy to fall in love with a caldera-facing hotel. And honestly, we don’t blame you. Waking up to the Aegean stretching out before you and watching the sun melting into the horizon from the comfort of your balcony is an experience like no other.

But before booking that cliffside suite, take a moment to think about the kind of holiday you want to have. 

Traveling with children? A beach town like Kamari or Perissa might be a more practical choice. Looking for privacy and tranquility? Villages like Emporio or Megalochori are also well worth considering.

 

 

Santorini mistake #3: Renting an ATV without understanding the risks

Although ATVs have become a popular way to explore Santorini, they’re not the safest choice. During the summer months, the island’s roads get quite busy, while steep inclines, sharp bends and strong winds can make riding more challenging than many visitors expect.

That’s why we recommend renting a car instead. Alternatively, you can join a guided tour or book a private transfer and simply enjoy the scenery while someone else takes care of the driving.

 

Santorini mistake #4: Riding a donkey to or from the Old Port of Fira

If you’re arriving by cruise ship, you may notice donkeys transporting visitors between Gialos Port and Fira. While this has long been a tourist thing, we strongly advise against it due to ongoing animal welfare concerns.

Instead, take the cable car, which is the easiest and most common way to reach Fira. Just keep in mind that queues can get quite long when multiple cruise ships are in port. 

And if you’d rather skip the crowds altogether, you can also book a private water taxi to Ammoudi Bay. While more pricey, it offers a far more relaxed and scenic way to reach the island.

 

Santorini mistake #5: Exploring only the caldera villages

While Oia and Fira are the ultimate showstoppers, they’re not the only towns worth adding to your itinerary. Beyond the trodden caldera paths, there’s a lesser-known yet equally enchanting side of the island waiting to be discovered.

So take some time to venture off the beaten path and visit villages like Pyrgos, Emporio and Megalochori. From medieval castles and traditional cave houses to flower-draped squares and labyrinthine alleys, they offer a glimpse into the slower, more authentic rhythm of Santorini that many visitors never get to experience.

 

 

Santorini mistake #6: Ignoring the dress code in churches and trespassing on private rooftops

While Santorini is home to the signature blue-domed churches, it’s important to remember that these structures are active places of worship. So when visiting, make sure to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees out of respect for local customs.

The same applies to hotel terraces, private rooftops and church rooftops. If a gate is closed or an area is marked as private, resist the temptation to enter just for a photo. There are countless public viewpoints across the island where you can admire the scenery without disturbing residents or guests.

 

Santorini mistake #7: Visiting Oia during sunset and peak hours

Yes, watching the sunset in Oia is an incredible experience. But if you arrive shortly before sunset, be prepared for packed alleys, crowded viewpoints and long waits just to snap a photo.

For a far more enjoyable visit, explore Oia early in the morning, when the streets are quieter and the village feels at its most authentic. And when it comes to sunset watching, consider a spot like Akrotiri village, Profitis Ilias Monastery or during a Santorini catamaran sunset cruise.

 

 

Santorini mistake #8: Expecting a plethora of nightlife options in every village

If nightlife is high on your priority list, Fira is hands down the best place to stay. As the island’s capital, it offers the widest selection of cocktail bars, rooftop lounges and clubs that stay lively well into the early hours.

Other villages, such as Oia and Kamari, have a much more relaxed evening atmosphere. They’re perfect for a seaside dinner, a glass of local wine or a leisurely stroll, but not if you’re hoping to dance the night away.

 

Santorini mistake #9: Relying on taxis for getting around

One thing many first-time visitors overlook is just how scarce taxis are in Santorini. During the summer, they’re in high demand, which translates into long waits and limited availability, especially around the airport, port and popular villages.

To avoid wasting valuable time, consider using the public buses or renting a car. Alternatively, private transfers and guided tours offer a much more convenient way to explore the island, without having to worry about finding a taxi or parking.

 

Santorini mistake #10: Skipping Santorini’s local food and wines

It’s easy to gravitate toward restaurants with the best caldera views. But if you only stick to tourist hotspots, you’ll miss one of the island’s greatest highlights: its gastronomy.

So venture inland and dine at a traditional tavern, where you can savor local specialties like fava, tomato fritters and white eggplant, paired with the world-famous Assyrtiko wine. Better yet, join a private Santorini wine tasting to discover the stories and traditions behind every sip.

 

 

Santorini mistake #11: Avoiding the island due to mobility limitations

It’s true that Santorini isn’t the easiest destination to navigate. But assuming the island is completely inaccessible couldn’t be further from the truth. With the right planning, it’s 100% possible to experience many of its highlights comfortably.

From accessible wineries and panoramic viewpoints to beach towns with flat promenades, there are more mobility-friendly options than most people realize.

And if you’d like to explore several of them in one day with a fun guide, our Santorini wheelchair-accessible private tour is designed to help you do exactly that.

 

Santorini mistake #12: Not planning your cruise stop properly

6-8 hours may sound like plenty of time to roam around Santorini, but they go by surprisingly quickly. Between tender transfers, cable car queues and getting around the island, it’s easy to spend more time on logistics than sightseeing.

That’s why planning ahead is essential. Decide what you’d like to see before you arrive, book any experiences in advance and always leave plenty of time to return to your cruise ship.

For more practical tips on making the most of your port stop, check out our guide to spending one day in Santorini from a cruise ship.

 

Santorini mistake #13: Waiting until the last minute to book restaurants, experiences or private transport

There’s nothing more disappointing than arriving in Santorini only to discover that the restaurant you’ve been dreaming about is fully booked or your favorite tour has sold out.

To avoid unnecessary stress, start making reservations as soon as you’ve finalized your travel dates. You’ll have a much wider selection to choose from and far greater flexibility when planning your itinerary.

 

 

Santorini mistake #14: Not booking a guided tour for your first visit

Sure, you can admire Santorini’s breathtaking landscapes on your own. But without a local expert, you’ll miss the stories that bring it all to life.

From the island’s volcanic past and rich history to local customs and everyday life, a guided tour adds context and meaning to your visit and helps you discover hidden gems most travelers miss.

 

Santorini mistake #15: Tackling the Fira to Oia hike during midday

The Fira to Oia hike is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding things on the island. But starting it around midday, especially during the summer months, is a mistake you’ll probably regret.

With very little shade along the way and temperatures often soaring above 86°F (30°C), the hike can quickly become exhausting. Instead, set off early in the morning when it’s cooler and the lighting is even more spectacular.

 

 

Santorini mistake #16: Not carrying cash with you

Although most hotels, restaurants and boutiques in Santorini accept card payments, it’s always worth carrying a little cash, especially if you plan to use the public buses and restrooms or buy souvenirs from tiny shops.

 

Santorini mistake #17: Wearing a light-colored swimsuit in the hot springs

If you’re booked for a Santorini volcano and hot springs tour, leave your white or light-colored swimsuit at the hotel. The warm, sulfur-rich waters can stain light fabrics with yellow or orange marks that are difficult to remove.

On top of that, sulfur tarnishes silver jewelry. So, you must remember to take it off!

 

 

Ready to make every moment on the island count?

Santorini has a way of exceeding expectations, but only if you experience it the right way. A little planning, a flexible mindset and a willingness to venture beyond the obvious can completely transform your trip.

Hopefully, these tips have helped you feel more confident about planning your visit. Now all that’s left is to book the activities that match your interests and travel style. Browse our top-rated day tours and find the one that’s right for you.

 

 

FAQs about the most common travel mistakes to avoid in Santorini

What to be careful of in Santorini?

Here are the main things to keep in mind when visiting Santorini:

• Strong sun, especially between June and September
• Steep, unguarded cliff drops
• Narrow, winding roads
• Unstable ATV rentals
• Trespassing private rooftops

 

Can you brush your teeth with the tap water in Santorini?

Yes. Santorini’s tap water is safe for brushing your teeth. That said, it’s not recommended for drinking.

 

Can I flush my toilet paper in Santorini?

No. Like in most parts of Greece, Santorini’s plumbing system isn’t designed to handle toilet paper, so you should throw it in the bin provided next to the toilet.

 

Any tips for avoiding crowds in Santorini

Visit popular villages like Oia and Fira early in the morning, explore inland villages like Pyrgos and Emporio and travel during the shoulder seasons (April-June or September-November) for a more relaxed experience.