Errors to avoid when planning a trip to Santorini

How not to spoil your trip to Santorini with silly mistakes? One of the most popular islands in the Cyclades, known for its epic sunsets, breathtaking cliffs, and villages perched on high. If you dream of a getaway in Greece, Santorini is likely high on your list of destinations to visit.

But to ensure you don’t ruin your trip, it’s important to be aware of common mistakes to avoid. In this article, I will share the 11 most common mistakes travelers make when planning a trip to Santorini so that you can make the most of your stay on this wonderful island. So, pack your bags, and let’s embark on a hassle-free journey to Santorini!

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Mistake 1 – Not planning your trip to Santorini far enough in advance

Not planning far enough in advance is a common mistake that many travelers make when preparing for a trip to Santorini. Since this Greek island is popular worldwide, it’s important to plan ahead to avoid disappointments. If you wait too long to book your hotel or activities, you may find yourself with limited satisfactory options.

Furthermore, planning in advance allows you to secure the best rates on flights, accommodations, and activities. It also gives you ample time to research for yourself and your budget. Finally, it allows you to relax and fully enjoy your trip without unnecessary planning-related stress.

Personally, I recommend planning your trip to Santorini at least 3 to 6 months in advance. This way, you can fully enjoy everything this marvelous island has to offer and ensure that you can arrange everything in a timely manner.

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Mistake 2 – Forgetting to consider all additional expenses

Many travelers make the mistake of not considering all the additional costs that can arise during a trip to Santorini. While the costs of flights, hotels, and activities are often the most significant for a trip, it’s important to take into account all the other costs that can add up.

These additional costs can include transportation fees for getting around the island, tips for tour guides, fees for excursions or additional activities, as well as expenses for food and drinks. It’s important to factor in these costs when planning your trip because they can quickly accumulate and impact your budget.

From my perspective, it’s always better to underestimate your initial budget for a trip. This allows you to prepare for any unforeseen expenses and ensure that you have enough money to fully enjoy your stay. Typically, I allocate an additional 20 to 40% just in case. I recommend researching the costs not to forget for a trip to Santorini to better understand what to expect.

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Mistake 3 – Not booking your hotel in advance

Forgetting to book accommodations in advance is another common mistake when planning a trip to Santorini. With its many luxury hotels and charming seaside studios, there is no shortage of options.

However, it can quickly become a headache if you haven’t booked in advance. To be honest, the best hotels can be booked months in advance during the high season, leaving you with very few choices.

In my opinion, it’s crucial to book your accommodation in advance to secure your dream lodging. Start at least 4 months in advance. Also, be sure to check the booking conditions, such as cancellation policies and booking fees, to avoid any unpleasant surprises later on.

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Mistake 4 – Missing out on incredible activities in Santorini

Neglecting must-do excursions and activities is another common mistake when planning a trip to Santorini. The island is filled with natural wonders and historical gems, and it would be a shame not to fully enjoy them during your stay.

I believe it’s important to plan and research in advance the excursions and activities you want to do during your stay. Whether it’s a visit to the impressive Santorini volcano, a boat trip to admire the sunsets over the Aegean Sea, or a tour of the island’s archaeological sites.

By planning ahead, you can ensure that you have enough time to do everything and not miss out on what Santorini has to offer. And by planning properly, you can also save money by booking group excursions or getting advance tickets for the most popular attractions.

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Mistake 5 – Not arranging transportation to your hotel in Santorini

Have you ever arrived in Santorini, eager to explore its wonders, only to be met with the frustration of inadequate transportation to get to your accommodation? Avoid this inconvenience by booking your hotel transfer in advance. Whether you arrive by ferry or plane, having a reliable means of transportation to take you to your accommodation is essential. If you plan ahead, the hotel will be informed of your arrival schedule and will have a vehicle ready to welcome you. Otherwise, you will be at the mercy of infrequent buses and extremely costly taxis.

Don’t let this detail spoil your trip to Santorini; book your hotel transfer now for a smooth arrival on the island.

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Mistake 6 – Thinking that Santorini is a party island

Who said Santorini is reserved for partygoers? Absolutely not! While the island is known for its stunning sunsets and breathtaking cliffside views, it’s not the destination for non-stop partying all night long. So, if you’re looking for wild parties, you might want to head to Mykonos instead.

Instead of seeking wild parties, go on a boat cruise and relax on the Caldera. Or rent a quad and discover hidden gems. Santorini also offers fantastic winery tours, so if you’re a wine enthusiast, you’ll be in for a treat! Don’t miss out on the island’s unique ambiance and beauty just because you thought it was all about partying.

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Mistake 7 – Arriving on Santorini by cruise ship

First, I want to ask why you are still using cruise ships in 2023? Extremely polluting, destructive to marine ecosystems, expensive, crowded, and the opposite of an intimate experience, massive cruise liners no longer have a place.

And while it may seem like a convenient option, it will deprive you of the full experience of this beautiful island. As thousands of tourists disembark onto the narrow winding paths of Fira, the small village can become overwhelming and chaotic. Crowds of people, long lines in souvenir shops, and a lack of time to fully immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of Santorini are just a few of the challenges that come with this mode of travel.

For a truly unforgettable trip to Santorini, it’s better to plan a longer stay and avoid the hustle and bustle of cruise ship crowds. By staying on the island after the ships depart, you’ll have the opportunity to explore its hidden gems, indulge in its world-renowned cuisine, and create lasting memories without the stress.

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Mistake 8 – Limiting yourself to the village of Oia on Santorini

Santorini is a breathtakingly beautiful island, and Oia is undoubtedly one of its most popular and romantic spots. However, it’s essential to remember that this island is much more than its most famous town. While relaxing in Oia is a must, don’t miss out on the other gems of the island! Take the wheel of a quad bike, hop on public transportation, or join a tour to discover Santorini’s black sand beaches, charming small towns, and world-famous vineyards.

Unleash the adventurer within you and explore everything that Santorini has to offer beyond its stunning cliffside views.

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Mistake 9 – Making the mistake of not considering the weather conditions in Santorini

When planning a trip to Santorini, it’s easy to make a mistake by not taking the weather conditions into account. Although this Greek island is known for its sunny and warm climate, it’s always a good idea to consider the weather to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Check the weather forecasts for your travel season before you go. This way, you can prepare accordingly, whether it’s by bringing waterproof clothing for rainy days or avoiding boat excursions during stormy days.

You can find detailed advice on the best season and weather reviews for each month on this page: When to go to Santorini.

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Mistake 10 – Underestimating the time needed to explore Santorini

One of the most common mistakes when planning a trip to Santorini is underestimating the time required to explore the island. With its stunning landscapes, idyllic beaches, and traditional villages, there is so much to see and do on the island.

I believe it’s important to take the necessary time to thoroughly explore Santorini. This will allow you to discover different parts of the island, appreciate the spectacular views, and savor delicious local dishes. If you rush, you might miss out on some of the island’s wonders.

I recommend dedicating at least 5 days to your trip to Santorini to have enough time to explore the island and enjoy everything it has to offer. If you don’t have that much time, you can still plan a visit that targets the areas that interest you the most. But remember that the longer you stay, the more chances you’ll have to discover all the wonders of Santorini. And there are plenty.

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Mistake 11 – Putting toilet paper in the toilets in Santorini

This may seem like a minor detail, but believe me, it makes a big difference. In Santorini (and much of Greece), their plumbing systems are not equipped to handle toilet paper. This can cause significant blockages and unpleasant issues.

So, even though it may not be the most glamorous aspect of your trip, make sure to properly dispose of your toilet paper in the trash can next to the toilet. It’s a small effort that greatly contributes to preserving the beauty and functionality of the island’s infrastructure.

Article mis à jours le 27 January 2024 par Pierre Bouyer