Backpacking Santorini On A Budget: How To Do It? (2024)
Do you want to visit Santorini on a budget and wonder is backpacking Santorini an option? You came to the right place!
This backpacking Santorini travel guide will show you exactly how to explore this iconic island on a backpacker’s budget!
Santorini is one of the most famous places in Greece. I am sure almost every traveler has a picture of blue domes and white cliffside houses of Santorini on their bucket list.
But, Santorini can also be one of the most expensive places to visit in Europe.
I visited Santorini several times, and while Santorini is not your typical backpacking destination, it is possible to visit Santorini on a budget.
In this Santorini budget travel guide, I will show you exactly how you can visit Santorini on a budget this year!
Let’s jump right in!
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. I hope you find the information here helpful!
Best time to visit Santorini on a budget
Santorini has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. So, it is usually pleasant year-round.
Yet, the best time to visit Santorini as a backpacker is in the summer months, from June to September.
There are some disadvantages to backpacking in Europe in summer: The island will be the busiest in June and August and the most expensive.
But if you want to meet other backpackers and make friends as a solo traveler, that is the best time to go. It is also the best time to enjoy the beaches and activities.
If you are not looking for backpacking party vibes, the best time to visit Santorini on a budget is during the shoulder season!
Visiting Santorini in May and September is the best value for money.
How to get to Santorini on a budget
It is easy to get to Santorini, as the island has an international airport. Therefore, you can fly directly to Santorini from many European countries.
If you are starting your Cyclades island-hopping adventure in Santorini, I would recommend flying to Santorini.
If you book in advance, you can find affordable flights to Santorini from all over Europe!
Once you land at Santorini airport, you can easily reach Fira from the airport by local bus.
The other option is taking a ferry. You can take a ferry from another island in the Cyclades or from Athens. However, if you are coming from Athens, keep in mind that the ferry ride is long.
You can browse the best ferry routes and book your ferry ticket at Ferryhopper. Unlike flights, ferry ticket prices do not change, regardless of when you book the ticket!
Once you’re on the island, you can easily reach Fira from the ferry port by local bus.
Check ferries to Santorini here!
How To Get Around Santorini
Walking is my favorite way to discover a new destination.
However, Santorini is a big island. Several villages on the island are relatively far from each other. This means you will not be able to walk everywhere.
The best way to get around Santorini is by public transport.
It is easy to get around the island by bus. It is a more eco-friendly way of getting around the island than renting a car, and it will keep your backpacking Europe cost low.
Santorini has reliable and affordable public transport that connects the whole island.
The public transport system in Santorini works by connecting every other village on the island with Fira, the island’s capital.
You can buy a ticket directly on the bus, so make sure you have cash. Check the timetable and prices on the KTEL website.
You could also rent a car, or a 4×4.
However, most people stay in Santorini without a car, because the public transport is so good!
Where to stay in Santorini on a budget?
The best area of Santorini to stay in is Fira. However, Perissa tends to be the cheapest area of Santorini to stay in.
Generally, the side of the island that is not on the Caldera is cheaper.
You will not want to stay in Oia because the accommodation is the most expensive in that area, as it is geared more towards couples than backpackers.
Also, there is not much nightlife in Oia.
If you are looking for nightlife, the best place to stay in Santorini is Fira or Perissa. During the summer months, there are a lot of beach parties, if that is what you are looking for.
I stayed both in Fira and Perissa, and it does not make much difference where you decide to base yourself. There are regular buses connecting all of the villages in Santorini.
Best hostels in Santorini, Greece
Surprisingly, there are many hostels in Santorini you can choose from as a backpacker.
- Fira Backpackers Place is the most popular budget-friendly alternative in Fira. Located in the heart of Fira, with friendly staff, it is the best option if they have beds available!
- Youth Hostel Anna in Perissa Beach is the most affordable option for backpackers. The hostel is basic, but it is located just a short walk from the famous Perissa black beach.
- Caveland Hostel is located in the village of Karterados in an 18th-century winery. They have all-female rooms and a relaxing atmosphere of an island village residence.
- Bedspot Hostel is ideally located in the heart of Fira. If you are lucky to find a bed available on your dates, book swiftly!
Hostels are also a fantastic place to meet other Santorini backpackers if you’re traveling solo and want to make friends!
Best place to stay in Santorini on a budget
If you don’t want to stay in hostels, but instead you’re looking for private rooms or studios in Santorini on a budget, here are the places I stayed at and recommend:
In Fira, I stayed in Villa Ilios. It was a great value-for-money split between two travelers when all hostels in Fira were already fully booked, and we wanted to spend one night in Fira. The Villa was close to the city center of Fira, and it had a pool.
In Perissa, I stayed in the Sagma Central Rooms. This accommodation also had a pool, and it was close to the beach.
What to do in Santorini on a budget?
Santorini is as expensive as you make it.
Yes, there are many pricey activities, hotels, and restaurants, but there are many free things to do in Santorini.
Sure, you can watch the sunset on one of Santorini’s sunset cruises, but you can also watch it for free from Oia Castle.
The best free things to do in Santorini:
1. Discover Fira
Fira is the capital village of Santorini. It is where you will find the picturesque cliffside white houses and blue domes. Fira feels like a maze, and It is easy to get lost in the narrow cobblestone streets.
Since Fira is rather small, you do not need a map. It is even better to be surprised by what you run into.
2. Hike from Fira to Oia
Hike from Fira to Oia is one of my favorite things to do on the island.
The hike is about 10 km long, and it takes you along the caldera from the village of Fira to Oia. On the way, you will also go through a couple of villages, Firostefani and Imerovigli. You can do a detour and explore the villages along the way at any moment!
The path is easy to follow, as you just have to keep walking along the Caldera road.
There will be some marks along the path to reassure you that you are on the right road, but not very often. As long as you have the sea on your left, you are moving in the right direction!
You can begin your hike anywhere in Fira and start walking north. The path will be a pleasant walk through the villages and turn into a hike only after you pass Imerovigli.
At one point, you will have to briefly walk alongside the car road, but you will quickly go back to the trail. There will be a trail marking pointing you in the right direction.
Marking the last quarter of the hike stands the Panagia church. You will have an amazing view of Oia. The hike goes downhill from this point, and it is the most enjoyable part.
Remember, this is a hike – don’t do it in a dress as I did. While it does not require complete hiking equipment, you should at least wear comfortable, closed walking shoes, preferably sneakers.
3. Hike up to Skaros rock
You can visit Skaros Rock on your hike from Fira to Oia or independently from Imerovigli.
If you are visiting as part of the hike, keep in mind that it will add at least 40 minutes to the length of the hike. The walk up to the rock is not long, but it can be challenging due to the hundreds of stairs leading up to the fortress ruins.
Skaros used to be an important fortress in the 15th century, and today it offers a beautiful scenic view of the island.
4. Discover Oia and admire the most beautiful sunset on Santorini
Oia is known as the most romantic spot in Santorini. You will notice it feels more high-end compared to Fira as there are many high-end stores and restaurants.
It is no surprise that one of the most popular things to do there is to watch the sunset! There are a couple of popular spots where people gather to watch the sunset.
The best spot to watch the sunset in Oia is the Oia castle. It offers a stunning view of the sunset over Oia windmills.
The second most popular spot to watch the sunset is next to the Byzantine castle ruins. Both get very crowded, so make sure you get there early to secure your spot. Grab a drink in one of the shops and enjoy the view!
5. Cliff jump in Amoudi Bay
The best thing to do after you hike from Fira to Oia is to take a dip in Amoudi Bay.
Amoudi Bay is located on the seafront below Oia. It is not the most beautiful Greek beach, as it is also a port.
It is famous for cliff jumping, so if that is something you are interested in, it is great. On the other hand, if you are not a good swimmer, skip it and enjoy walking around Oia.
6. Swim at the black sand beaches of Perissa
Full disclosure here, Santorini beaches are not the best beaches in the Cyclades. Yet, they are very unique thanks to their volcanic origins.
Black sand beaches line the coast along the southeast of the island.
You can either visit Perissa or Kamari Beach. They are very similar, and which one you decide to visit will depend on which village is more convenient for you.
7. Discover the famous Red beach
The red sand beach is one of the most unique beaches in Greece. Its red sand is truly unique and makes for a spectacular sight as you walk to the beach.
The beach is located in the south of the island. You can take a bus to the area, but getting to the beach will require hiking.
However, you can choose to enjoy the view without making it all the way down to the beach.
8. Hike the Profitas Ilias Mountain
If you are interested in hiking in Santorini, you can hike to Profitas Ilias, the highest point on the island. It is a proper hike, so make sure you have the right equipment.
You can start either from Pyrgos and go to Kamari or the other way around. Once you reach the top, you can go down the same way or continue and end your trek on the opposite side of the mountain.
You will find the trail markings on the road, and it is pretty easy to follow.
Along the way, you can visit Ancient Thera, but it is not free to visit.
9. Bonus – pet all the cats!
You will notice many cats around the island. Most of them are very friendly and cuddly! Every cat lover will love it.
how many days in Santorini do you need?
I suggest spending at least 3 days in Santorini. If you have more time and money, you could easily spend a whole week in Santorini.
However, since it is more of a luxurious backpacking destination, I feel like 3 nights is a realistic span that gives you enough time to discover the best of Santorini.
3 days in Santorini Itinerary
If you are visiting Santorini while backpacking through Greece, 3 days in Santorini is the perfect period to spend on the island.
You will see all the main sights while saving your budget for the rest of your trip.
DAY 1: Explore Fira
As this will be the day you arrive at Santorini, you might not have a full day to explore. You can relax on one of the black sand beaches that might be close to your accommodation.
Spend your first night on Santorini enjoying Fira at night.
DAY 2: Hike Oia To Fira
On the first full day in Santorini, you can do a hike from Fira to Oia. Spend the morning exploring the village of Fira before embarking on a 10km coastline trek to Oia.
Explore the villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli along the way. Make a detour to Skaros rock and enjoy the unique view of Santorini.
Once you reach Oia, refresh yourself in Amoudi Bay.
Explore the cobblestone streets of Oia before finding a spot to watch the most beautiful sunset on the island.
DAY 3: Beach Day Or Boat Tour
On the third day, go ahead and explore the unique Red sand beach.
If you still have energy after yesterday’s hike, you can Hike the Profits Ilias and discover Ancient Thira.
Alternatively, book a boat tour of the volcano and hot springs. This full-day boat tour is great value for money if you want to visit Santorini on a budget!
Best vegan restaurants in Santorini
There are many restaurants with vegan options in Santorini. There are a couple of fully vegan restaurants, including vegan fine dining!
Check out the Happy Cow app to stay updated with the new restaurants with vegan options, as restaurants are adding more and more options every day.
If you check the menus, most places will offer at least one vegan meal.
Fava is a bean spread locally to Santorini, and it is accidentally vegan! The best part of traveling is trying local food. It is amazing when it is also accidentally vegan!
- I absolutely loved Gelateria Zotos because they had a lot of vegan ice cream flavors to choose from. My favorite was bitter chocolate, bits of chocolate in the creamiest dark chocolate ice cream ever.
- Falafeland had amazing vegan falafel and some vegan desserts as well. Their portions were generous, and the price was very affordable.
- Tranquilo in Perissa Beach was delicious. Many vegan options, large portions, and beach bar vibes.
Supermarkets in Santorini also have quite a few vegan snacks. The prices in most markets are slightly more expensive than in mainland Greece, but it makes sense when you know where Santorini is and that everything needs to be transported by boat.
Santorini travel budget
Santorini is worth visiting even if you’re on a budget!
The cost of backpacking Santorini will depend on when you decide to visit.
As previously mentioned, it will be the most expensive if you travel in the summer.
The most considerable expense, the accommodation, varies greatly. Even if you save on everything else, it will eat away at your budget.
How much money you need to visit Santorini will depend on your traveling style.
As a backpacker on a budget, I would budget anywhere between 40-80€ a day.
It is possible to stay on the lower end if you stay in a hostel in Perissa, only do free activities, and limit eating and drinking out.
I spent on average 40€ per day on my 3-day trip to Santorini.
However, I visited in September so accommodation prices were significantly lower. Therefore, I could have shared a private room and still stay within a budget.
is Santorini safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, Santorini is safe to travel as a solo female traveler and backpacker. The island is small, and crime rates are low.
However, you should always keep an eye on your belongings and use your common sense. Especially since Santorini tends to be very crowded and there could be pickpockets.
If you are hiking in Santorini, be sure to have the proper equipment and enough water.
Summary: Backpacking Santorini On A Budget
And there you have it, everything you need to know about how to visit Santorini on a budget!
There are many free things in Santorini you can add to your Santorini itinerary to visit this picturesque island, without breaking the bank.
From strolling the cobblestone streets of charming cliffside villages to swimming on unique black and red sand beaches, there’s something in Santorini for every traveler!
If you enjoyed this Santorini backpacking guide pin it for later, and share it with your friends who want to travel this summer.
If you want to keep on planning your Santorini adventure, here are all the articles you will need:
- Best Hostels In Santorini For Backpackers
- Best Sunset Cruises In Santorini For Every Budget
- Where To Stay In Santorini Without A Car
