Mykonos and Santorini Journey: Itinerary & Information

I’m not exaggerating once I say this; the Greek Islands are beautiful. Whichever island you go to you shouldn’t be dissatisfied however I’ve a smooth spot for the Cyclades islands. 

There are literally over 200 islands within the Cyclades however essentially the most well-known of all of them are Mykonos and Santorini. And for good purpose! These two islands are each stunning, with some nice seashores, eating places and nightlife.

Santorini is greatest identified for its postcard-perfect sunsets over the village of Oia, whereas Mykonos is thought for its well-known windmills and seaside golf equipment. Each islands appeal to lots of consideration from influencers and Instagrammers, making them two of the preferred locations for a summer time trip in Europe. 

On my first Greek islands journey I traveled there I visited Athens, Santorini, Ios, Paros, Mykonos and Kos by ferry.

I fell in love with the islands a lot that I later returned and spent a summer time season working at a bar in Ios, making a few journeys to Mykonos for a change of surroundings. I’ve fond reminiscences of my time there and I wouldn’t hesitate to advocate these islands to my buddies.  

Planning a Mykonos and Santorini journey? This information will cowl the way to get there, what to do, the place to remain and what to eat!

How you can journey to Mykonos and Santorini

Direct flight to Mykonos or Santorini

Santorini and Mykonos each have airports, so you possibly can truly skip Athens and fly immediately to those islands from numerous cities in Europe. 

Between the months of April and November, a number of airways function continuous flights from London to Santorini (Thira) and London to Mykonos. 

Airways that fly from London to Santorini: Easyjet, British Airways, Jet2.com, Ryanair and Wizz Air. 

Airways that fly from London to Mykonos: Easyjet and British Airways. 

How you can get from Athens to Mykonos and Santorini

Your different choice is to journey to Athens first after which both take the ferry or fly. If you happen to’ve by no means been to Athens earlier than, chances are you’ll need to embody the capital in your Greece itinerary. Personally I’m not an enormous fan of Athens however you possibly can see the Acropolis and some different very well-known archeological websites. If it’s your first time in Greece then I’d positively recommend you see Athens a minimum of as soon as in your lifetime. 

To get from Athens to Mykonos or Santorini you could have two choices; fly or take the ferry. 

Flight – Flying is the quickest choice because it solely takes 45 minutes however then you need to issue within the journey time to Athens Worldwide Airport. 

Ferry – Ferries are extra relaxed as a result of you possibly can stroll round on board and stretch out however they take longer than flying. 

Ferries to Santorini take round 4 to 10 hours relying on the vessel you’re touring on. Ferries from to Mykonos vary from 2 hours 45 minutes to five hours quarter-hour.

When catching the ferry to both of those islands you’ll depart from Piraeus ferry terminal, which is about 14km south of central Athens. There are a number of completely different ferry corporations to select from and there are normally a number of boat departures per day. Use Ferryhopper.com to go looking ferry schedules in Greece and e book tickets.

How you can get from Mykonos to Santorini (or Santorini to Mykonos)

Because you’re visiting each islands you’ll have to take a ferry between the 2. There are as much as 4 ferry crossings every day with journey instances taking round 2 hours or extra. Once more, you should utilize Ferryhopper.com to go looking the most recent timetables.

Visiting Santorini

How you can get round Santorini

Whenever you’re within the cities you possibly can stroll round on foot however one of the best ways to get round Santorini is by hiring an ATV. It’s essentially the most enjoyable method to see the island with the wind in your hair! You’ll see rental retailers all around the island, together with Fira. If you happen to’re not assured about driving an ATV then you can rent a automotive from the airport or in Fira. Take a look at Rentalcars.com for rental automotive costs. 

Alternatively, you possibly can journey across the island by bus. There are KETL buses from Fira to many alternative locations across the island. You should purchase tickets on the bus and fares vary from about $2-$3. Simply do not forget that the buses can get actually crowded throughout peak months.

Taxis are additionally accessible on the island – that is one of the best ways to get to and from the airport in the event you’re not hiring a automotive. Some routes, corresponding to from Fira to the ferry port or from Fira to Oia, have fastened charges. At different instances you’ll simply negotiate a worth, so ensure you do this earlier than setting off. 

Issues to do in Santorini

Sundown in Oia – Oia is that magical postcard-perfect place that you just’ve seen within the magazines and on Instagram. The sundown right here is gorgeous and it’s nicely definitely worth the go to to this beautiful little village within the north of the island. That being stated, the crowds are loopy right here at sundown. Don’t anticipate it to be an intimate second with simply you and different individuals. Eating places and cafes are fully stuffed with vacationers and there’s not a spot that isn’t taken. But it’s nonetheless price it; the village is beautiful, with white buildings nestled into the cliff face.

Kamari Seaside – Kamari Seaside is without doubt one of the largest seashores in Santorini and is situated about 4 miles southeast of Fira. The seaside is near every little thing and has a relaxed vibe with loads of seaside eating places to select from. Keep in mind to convey seaside sneakers as a result of the black sand can get highly regarded in summer time!

Perissa Black Sand Seaside – Perissa lies on the southeast coast of Santorini and it’s the place I normally keep once I go to the island. There are each hostels and motels right here in addition to eating places alongside the beachfront. Most cafes and eating places supply lounge chairs without spending a dime, which is nice as a result of the sand is sort of coarse and will get sizzling. 

Stroll round Fira – Fira is Santorini’s capital and may be discovered on the west coast of the island. Right here you’ll discover loads of whitewashed villas, blue domed church buildings, retailers, bars and eating places. If you happen to’re in search of nightlife, that is the place you’ll discover it (though it’s much more low key than Ios and Mykonos). Fira is about in a cliff, so that you’ll be capable to seize some fairly epic photographs of the views over the Aegean Sea. 

Santorini Volcano – Many individuals ask – is there a volcano in Santorini? Sure there’s, and it’s energetic but it surely lies underwater. Santorini is a volcanic island with black sandy seashores and far of its panorama may be attributed to volcanic eruptions through the years. Considered one of them shaped the Santorini Caldera, which is principally a big volcanic crater. A volcano & boat tour will take you to the 2 small islands of Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni, which lie within the heart of the caldera. 

Go to a vineyard – If you happen to take pleasure in a glass of wine, head to Santo Vineyard, the place you possibly can take pleasure in wine tasting and nibbles whereas absorbing the views of the caldera from the out of doors terrace. Assyrtiko is the dominant white grape selection that thrives on Santorini and you’ll pattern a wide range of wines which are produced from this grape. 

Akrotiri Archeological Web site –  One other attention-grabbing factor to do in Santorini is to pay a go to to Akrotiri Archeological Web site, which was a Bronze Age settlement that ultimately got here to an abrupt finish within the final a part of the seventeenth century B.C, when inhabitants needed to abandon it as a consequence of extreme earthquakes. 

The place to remain in Santorini 

There are many motels and guesthouses in Santorini and in the event you step off the ferry you’ll discover loads of visitor homeowners crowding the ports and touting their lodging. If you happen to’re reserving your lodging on-line earlier than you go, listed here are some nice lodging choices across the island: 

Accommodations in Santorini

George & Joanna Suites – This model new lodge is centrally situated in Fira and boasts trendy, fantastically adorned suites with kitchenettes, king measurement beds, ensuite bathe rooms and balconies. The lodge additionally has an indoor bamboo swing and an out of doors personal hydromassage tub.

Ducato Di Oia – If you wish to keep in Oia, Ducato Di Oia is a stable selection, with cave-style suites impressed by the island’s Cycladic structure. This luxurious lodge presents 15 suites and three rooms that includes handpicked Moroccan assertion décor items. 9 of them have personal heated indoor and out of doors swimming pools, whereas all of them have epic views of the Caldera. 

You and Me Suites – Positioned in Firostefani only a few minutes from Fira, Your and Me Suites blends boho-chic model with conventional Cycladic structure. The Premium Suite has an out of doors heated plunge pool, the Honeymoon Suite has an indoor heated jacuzzi and the Unique Suite boasts a heated personal pool. All suites boast sea views and supply the proper backdrop for creating stunning Instagram photographs.

Athina Luxurious Suites – Perched on the cliffs in Fira, Athina Luxurious Suites contains a bar/restaurant, spa amenities, infinity heated pool and a pool bar contained in the pool. Suites are minimal but luxurious and each has sweeping views of the caldera, the volcano and sundown.

Hostels

Youth Hostel Anna – After I stayed in Santorini I stayed at Youth Hostel Anna, which is located in Perissa village, by the black sand seaside. I preferred being only a 4 minute stroll from the seaside and the hostel’s huge terrace is nice for assembly different vacationers.

Bedspot Hostel – A vibrant, trendy and ethereal boutique hostel in Fira with a rooftop and small yard. Bedspot Hostel has three forms of rooms – double rooms ensuite , 4-bed female and male dorms with ensuite and eight mattress blended dorms with ensuite.

The place to eat in Santorini

When you’re in Santorini you’ll have loads of alternatives to strive scrumptious Greek meals. These are a number of the greatest eating places in Santorini:

Aktaion – Aktaion is situated in Firostefani, that means “the village that crowns Fira”, and has been serving meals to locals and vacationers since 1922 . Dishes are made with recent substances discovered on the island and embody fava, korkosela, Santorinian salad with codfish, Santorini tomato balls and moussaka.

Selene – This Greek advantageous eating restaurant is led by Michelin star-rated chef Ettore Botrini and is housed in an previous Catholic monastery in Fira. The menu presents a up to date spin on conventional Greek recipes and is impressed by the culinary heritage of Santorini.

Katsaboo Restaurant – Restaurant serving Santorini delicacies with a contemporary twist subsequent to the elegant pool of the San Marino Suites lodge. A lot of the substances and greens present in Katsaboo’s dishes are sourced from the household’s Katsipis household orchard

Alisachni Artwork & Wine Gallery – A multi-use area combining an artwork gallery and restaurant, Alisachni Restaurant gives a singular eating expertise in Megalachori. The restaurant has a cave-like inside with whitewashed partitions and an out of doors patio the place you possibly can take pleasure in Greek delicacies and advantageous wines.

Lefkes – Located within the village of Foinikia in Oia, Lefkes is housed inside a subterranean cellar (Kanave) that was carved by a neighborhood craftsman in 1848. For the menu the chef has given a contemporary tackle Greek delicacies, that includes dishes corresponding to Feta Cigars, Moussaka Croquettes and Lamb in Tagine with Naxos graviera cheese.

Pitogyros – If you happen to’re in search of the very best souvlaki and gyros in Oia, look no additional than Pitogyros. Meat eaters have the choice of a wide range of meat gyros together with rooster and pork, whereas vegetarians can select between salad or halloumi gyros. Dine in on their out of doors terrace or take one to go and eat it’s going to having fun with the sundown.

Visiting Mykonos

Mykonos is known for its windmills, sandy seashores, seaside events, whitewashed buildings and blue doorways. It’s my favourite out of the 2 islands, primarily as a result of I like techno music and there’s loads of that on the island. Plus it’s stunning!  

Mykonos has buses that join most of the cities and seashores so you possibly can simply get round by public transportation. Tickets may be bought at stands within the streets in addition to vacationer retailers and can normally value a few euros. In the summertime months the buses run later so you possibly can nonetheless catch a bus after an evening out. 

If you happen to’re touring to the seashores then the opposite choice is taking the Mykonos Water Taxi. The taxi stops at a number of seashores alongside the south coast, together with Ornos, Platis Gialos, Paraga, Paradise, Tremendous Paradise, Agrari and Elia. Fares value 10€ for a one-beach go or 20€ for an all-day, all-beach go.

Alternatively you will get round by taxi. Taxis are particularly helpful in the event you’re touring to and from the airport or if it’s essential get someplace rapidly. Vehicles aren’t allowed in Chora so that you’ll discover them on the sting of city in Manto Mavrogenous Sq..  

Issues to do in Mykonos

Go to the windmills – The enduring Mykonos windmills are situated on the sting of Mykonos City (Chora) on prime of a hill. There are literally 16 windmills in Mykonos and several other of them are lined up on this one hill, making for an ideal picture alternative. Constructed by the Venetians within the sixteenth century, the windmills have been used to mill wheat till the twentieth century.

Watch sundown in Little Venice – Little Venice is part of Mykonos City that sits proper on the water. Waves typically crash up alongside the wall, sending water spraying up into the air. It’s a good looking space with numerous bars and eating places which have terraces the place you will get entrance row seats to observe the dramatic sundown. It’s probably the most stunning sunsets I’ve ever seen in my life and makes you are feeling so alive.  

Wander Mykonos City – Mykonos City is a good looking city with a labyrinth of slim streets and whitewashed buildings coated with bougainvillea. Hunt for fairly blue doorways, store for souvenirs and dine at one of many many eating places on the town. 

Boat journey to Delos – When you’ve got just a few days in Mykonos, take a ship journey over to Delos island, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site. The island is the legendary birthplace of Artemis and Apollo and at one level individuals have been forbidden to die or give delivery there; as an alternative they needed to take a ship over to Mykonos. Delos was first settled round 3000 BC, grew to become a shrine to Apollo round 800 BC, and in subsequent centuries grew to become a thriving business port. The island flourished for 700 years earlier than ultimately falling into decline, and was deserted across the eighth century AD. Excursions normally depart from the port in Mykonos City and can take you to go to highlights such because the Sanctuary of Apollo and the Terrace of Lions. 

Occasion at a seaside membership – Two of the very best identified seaside golf equipment in Mykonos are Paradise Seaside Membership and Tremendous Paradise Seaside Membership. Tremendous Paradise is fashionable within the daytime with DJs and many individuals dancing and consuming by the seaside. Paradise Seaside Membership has a celebration vibe within the daytime but it surely will get even wilder after darkish and infrequently hosts well-known DJs from all around the world. 

Discover the island’s seashores – Mykonos has numerous golden sandy seashores to find. The most well-liked seashores for partying are Paradise Seaside and Tremendous Paradise Seaside, which each have seaside golf equipment. If you happen to’d favor to go to a extra stress-free seaside, strive: 

• Platis Gialos
• Psarrou Seaside
• Paraga Seaside
• Lia Seaside
• Elia Seaside
• Ornos Seaside
• Fokos Seaside

Paraportiani Orthodox Church – There are lots of of church buildings on the island of Mykonos however essentially the most iconic of all of them is Paraportiani Orthodox church, which is situated within the Kastro neighborhood within the city of Chora. Relationship again to the 1400s, this church has a snow white exterior and is a superb instance of Cylcadic structure. It sits on a hill overlooking the ocean and its identify means “Our Girl of the Aspect Gate”. 

The place to remain in Mykonos

Accommodations in Mykonos

Myconian Villa Assortment – A part of the Myconian Assortment of resorts and motels, the Myconian Villa Assortment is located in Elia Seaside and is without doubt one of the most glamorous resorts on the island. Nestled in a hillside, this 5-star lodge options terraced villas, saltwater swimming pool, epicurean restaurant and Thalasso spa.

Lodge Tagoo – Household run lodge on a hillside location close to Mykonos City with an out of doors pool, sea-view terrace and poolside snack bar. Rooms fluctuate from ultra-modern and minimalist to conventional.

Paola’s City Lodge – Enjoyable boutique lodge only a two minute drive from Mykonos City. The minimalist rooms have terraces with backyard views or pool views and a few have their very own indoor sizzling tubs.

Soho Roc Home – A part of personal member’s membership Soho Home, Soho Roc Home is situated only a 3-minute stroll from Paraga Seaside and overlooks the ocean. The lodge options 44 visitor rooms, a poolside veranda, an out of doors gymnasium and a restaurant/seaside membership referred to as Scorpios.

Nissaki Boutique Lodge – Located simply steps away from Platis Gialos Seaside, Nissaki Boutique Lodge has a wide selection of amenities together with an out of doors swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, magnificence salon, spa heart, health heart and hammam. Rooms are modern with beautiful views of the ocean and vary in measurement from double rooms to a few bed room suites.

Boheme Mykonos – In-built a standard Cycladic model, Boheme Mykonos is a trendy boutique lodge in a handy location only a stone’s throw from The Windmills and Little Venice. Amenities embody an out of doors swimming pool, gymnasium, boutique and an a Mediterranean restaurant referred to as Bilo.

Hostels in Mykonos

Paraga Seaside Hostel – Positioned on Paraga Seaside, this hostel is only a 10-minute stroll from Paradise Seaside and a 15-minute stroll from Cavo Paradiso membership. Lodging choices embody dorm rooms, 3-person personal rooms, tent rental beds and bungalows with shared loos. On-site you’ll additionally discover a pool, two pool bars, an a la carte restaurant and a mini market. 

Mycocoon Hostel Mykonos – This design hostel is situated within the space of Kaminaki which is correct reverse the doorway to Mykonos City. So if you wish to keep close to city, that is the choice for you. The cave-like rooms appear like one thing out of Tatooine in Star Wars and the infinity pool gives stunning views over Mykonos City.

Paradise Seaside Tenting – After I stayed in Mykonos I stayed at Paradise Seaside Tenting, which is the place the social gathering’s at. This hostel is situated proper on the seaside and contains a membership that’s open from April to October. There are every day events at Paradise Seaside Membership and the membership attracts well-known DJs from all around the world. Visitors can e book cabins with entry to a shared lavatory or bungalows with personal loos that match 2 or 3 individuals. 

The place to eat in Mykonos

Funky Kitchen – My favourite place to eat  in Mykonos, Funky Kitchen is a small eatery in Mykonos City that serves scrumptious meals made with wholesome substances. Plates are very well introduced and the menu options dishes corresponding to feta summer time rolls, tuna tataki, octopus carpaccio, and rack of lamb. 

Niko’s Taverna – Niko’s is without doubt one of the oldest eating places in Mykonos and is situated in a sq. close to the waterfront. On the menu you’ll discover conventional Greek dishes and seafood, together with Tzatziki, Moussaka, Greek salad and grilled fish.

FAQs about Mykonos and Santorini

Santorini vs Mykonos: which is healthier?

Santorini has a totally completely different vibe to Mykonos. Whereas each islands have white buildings with blue doorways, the general really feel on every is totally completely different. 

Santorini is a laid-back, romantic island with a volcanic panorama and dramatic surroundings. A few of the seashores have black sand. Mykonos, in the meantime, is extra of a celebration island with golden sandy seashores and seaside golf equipment. It’s tough to say which one you’ll favor as a result of it is dependent upon preferences.

What number of days in Mykonos and Santorini?

I’d recommend round 3 days on every island, so 6 days exploring each islands. After all, you can spend rather a lot longer on each islands simply absorbing the solar, stress-free and having fun with the seashores. It actually relies upon how a lot time you could have.

Mykonos or Santorini for partying?

Mykonos is healthier for partying. The island attracts world famend DJs so in the event you like techno music, you’ll love Mykonos. A lot of the good events happen within the seaside areas, notably Paradise Seaside and Tremendous Paradise Seaside. I additionally love Scandinavian Bar in Mykonos City.

How lengthy is the ferry from Mykonos to Santorini?

The journey from Mykonos to Santorini takes round 2 hours.

Which is dearer, Santorini or Mykonos?

You’ll discover that each islands are dearer than the opposite Cyclades islands. Out of the 2, Mykonos is dearer. Numerous celebrities go to Mykonos for the seaside golf equipment, events and luxurious resorts. It’s subsequently one of many priciest Greek islands to go to.

A ultimate phrase…

If you happen to solely have per week in Greece I’d recommend doing Athens, Mykonos and Santorini as your first journey. When you’ve got longer then positively discover extra of the islands and maybe incorporate Ios, Naxos and Milos into your Greek islands itinerary too! 

I hope this information helped you along with your Mykonos and Santorini journey planning! When you’ve got any solutions for this text, go away a remark under!