The airport on Santorini

Santorini National Airport (JTR) sits on the eastern side of the island, about 5 km from Fira, north of Kamari village. It’s a small airport — one terminal, limited gates — but it was fully modernized and expanded as part of the Fraport Greece group’s renovation project, completed in 2021, preserving its traditional architectural character while upgrading the facilities. You’ll find restaurants, a bakery, ATMs, car rental offices, Wi-Fi, and an information desk. Don’t expect a sprawling international hub — but for what it is, it works well.

One important note: the airport doesn’t operate around the clock and has limited capacity, so sleeping at the airport isn’t an option. Plan your arrivals and departures accordingly.

Airlines and routes

As of summer 2026, there are 38 airlines flying to Santorini from 55 airports around the world, with Ryanair, easyJet, and Aegean operating the most routes. Direct flights are available from the UK, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Italy, and most major European hubs throughout the travel season — roughly April to October.

From the UK, both easyJet and British Airways operate direct services, with the flight taking around three and a half to four hours. From the US, there are no direct intercontinental flights to Santorini: you’ll have to connect via Athens or another European hub. The domestic Athens to Santorini flight takes around 45 minutes and runs year-round with Aegean Airlines and Sky Express.

Getting from the airport to Fira

The cheapest option is the bus. The airport bus runs regularly to Fira for €1.60, paid in cash to the bus conductor, so have coins or small bills ready. The journey takes about 10 minutes, and from Fira you can connect to other parts of the island. Buses run roughly every hour, with increased frequency in peak season. But the schedule can change without much notice, so pack a little patience along with your sunscreen.

For a taxi, there’s a rank right outside arrivals. The journey to Fira takes around 10 minutes but costs considerably more than the bus. If you’re heading to Oia or Imerovigli and want a direct transfer without the bus change in Fira, a pre-booked private transfer is the smoothest option, especially if you have luggage and travel during the peak season.

Renting a car at the airport is also worth considering if you’re planning to explore the island independently. It’s far easier than picking one up in Fira or at the ferry port.

Need recommendations for transfers?
>> Private Transfer Santorini One-way From/To Airport, Port & Hotel
>> Santorini, Private Transfer with Luxury Airconditioned Vehicle
>> Private Santorini Airport Transfer – Meet & Greet Service (JTR)

Tips for getting a cheap ticket

This advice is as old as it gets: book early. Santorini in July and August commands premium prices, and the earlier you commit, the better the fare. May, early June, and September are the sweet spots. The weather is still excellent, the island is less frantic, and the airfare is more affordable.

If you’re coming from the US or anywhere without a direct connection, flying into Athens first and taking a domestic flight or ferry to Santorini is the standard approach — and often works out cheaper than routing through an expensive European hub. The domestic flight is quick and painless; the ferry is slower but gives you that caldera arrival moment that flying doesn’t.

Midweek flights — Tuesdays and Wednesdays in particular — tend to be cheaper than weekend departures. Flexible on dates? Use a comparison tool and let the calendar tell you when to go.

Note: this article includes links that may qualify as affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission.

The post Flights to Santorini appeared first on LooknWalk Greece.

There’s a certain magic to Greek village life that no beach or ancient ruin quite replicates. Whether it’s the narrow-cobbled streets, the old men at the kafeneion, or that delicious aroma of Greek food, something peeks your senses and curiosity.

Here are the villages worth making the detour for.

Lindos

The most visited village on the island, and deservedly so. Lindos is spectacular: whitewashed houses with pebble-mosaic courtyards, narrow streets too tight for cars, Byzantine churches, and the acropolis looming over everything from its clifftop. It was once one of the most powerful city-states in the ancient Mediterranean, and the ruins of the acropolis and the Doric Temple of Athena Lindia make that history tangible in a way that’s hard to explain until you’re standing there.

The acropolis is open daily from April, with summer hours running 8am to 8pm. Adult admission is €20 during the summer season, with free entry for EU citizens under 25 and non-EU visitors under 18. Book your timed entry slot online in advance — the queues in high season are serious, and the midday heat on the climb up is not something you want to experience while waiting in line. Go early.

St Paul’s Bay at the foot of the acropolis is one of the most beautiful small beaches on the island — calm, sheltered, and with that cliff backdrop. It gets busy but the setting carries it.

Filerimos

Just 8 km from Rhodes Town, Filerimos sits on a 267-metre hill on the site of the ancient city of Ialysos — and it’s far more than a quick stop on the way somewhere else. The hill itself is the attraction: a cypress-lined avenue leads to a giant concrete cross with sweeping views over the west coast, while the other path takes you to the monastery, the ruins of a Greek temple, a Byzantine baptistery, the underground Chapel of St George, and the remains of a Byzantine fortress.
One thing nobody tells you before you arrive: the hill is populated by peacocks. Dozens of them, roaming freely around the site. It’s a slightly surreal addition to an already atmospheric place, and kids love it.

The monastery is open daily in summer from 8am to 8pm. In the winter, it opens from 8:30am to 3:30pm but is closed on Tuesdays. Admission is €10 for adults, and free for visitors under 25 from EU countries. Dress modestly if you’re going inside.

Kritinia

In the southwest of the island, Kritinia is a small, quiet village that most visitors drive straight past. As you leave the village, a road leads up to the Venetian Castle of Kritinia, a 15th-century fortification perched on a steep rock with commanding views over the surrounding coastline. The combination of medieval and Byzantine architecture makes it one of the more interesting castle ruins on the island, and the view from the top justifies the short climb on its own.

The Folklore Art Museum just outside the village is worth a look for traditional costumes, decorated plates, and local crafts. It’s the kind of small, unhurried museum that has mostly disappeared from more tourist-heavy parts of Greece.

Embonas

Up on the slopes of Mount Attavyros, at around 850 metres, Embonas is the wine village of Rhodes and also the highest village on the island. It’s the most important grape-producing village on the island, and if you visit around harvest time you’ll find the streets full of baskets and courtyards spread with raisins drying in the sun. The local tavernas are excellent. So, come hungry. And the house wine, served by the carafe, is the point. The village is also known for souma, a distilled spirit made from grapes, which you’ll find offered in most places. The embroidery shops and folk museum are a bonus.

It’s not the prettiest village architecturally, but the atmosphere is genuine in a way that the more polished tourist villages aren’t, and its relatively remote position has kept it largely untouched by tourism.

Archangelos

Located on the eastern coast about halfway down the island, Archangelos is one of the largest and most traditional villages on Rhodes. Local artisans still shape clay by hand here, and village life follows rhythms as old as the stone ovens where bread still bakes communally. The pottery workshops are the main draw: you can watch, buy, and occasionally have a go yourself. And the handwoven carpets sold in the village shops are worth picking up if you have room in your luggage. The medieval Castle of Saint John and the Church of the Archangel Michael are both worth a look while you’re there.

Getting to Rhodes

Rhodes is well connected by air from across Europe, with direct flights from the UK, Germany, Scandinavia, and other European hubs throughout the summer season. The flight from London takes around three and a half hours. From the US, you’ll connect via Athens or another European hub.

>> Book your flight to Rhodes

If you’re already island-hopping, ferries run from Piraeus in Athens — the journey takes around 15 hours overnight on Blue Star Ferries (on the conventional ferry). Rhodes is also connected to the neighboring Dodecanese islands including Kos, Symi, and Patmos, making it an easy addition to a wider Aegean itinerary.

Where to stay

Rhodes Town is the ideal base. The UNESCO-listed medieval Old Town is one of the best-preserved in Europe and worth at least a couple of days of your time. For something closer to the villages covered in this article, the area around Lindos has a good range of boutique hotels and puts you well-placed for the southern and eastern parts of the island. If you want easy access to Filerimos and the northwest, staying closer to Ialyssos keeps the drive short.

>> Read more about Hotels in Rhodes
>> Book your accommodation in Rhodes

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The beaches fall into two camps: the eastern coast, where most of the action is, and the wilder southern coast, where the scenery takes over. Here’s what you need to know about both.

Kamari

Kamari is one of the most popular beaches on the island and easily one of the most organized. Located on the eastern coast, it’s a long black sand and pebble beach with the imposing rock of Mesa Vouno rising from the sea at one end, the same rock that separates it from Perissa on the other side. Sun beds, umbrellas, water sports, beach bars, tavernas, and hotels line the waterfront, making it a full-day destination rather than just a swim stop. Windsurfing and water skiing are popular here, and the village behind the beach has plenty of shops if you feel like browsing between dips.

Perissa

About 15 km from Fira, Perissa sits on the opposite side of Mesa Vouno from Kamari and shares the same volcanic black sand and crystal clear water. It’s slightly more relaxed in character, with a good range of accommodation in the village right behind the beach, which is useful to know if you’re planning to base yourself here rather than in Fira. The two beaches look very similar but feel different: Perissa has a younger, more low-key crowd and a less resort-heavy atmosphere.

Monolithos

North of Kamari on the eastern coast, Monolithos is the one to head to if you want a quieter day at the beach. It’s more family-oriented than its neighbors — there’s a football pitch, a basketball court, and a playground — and noticeably less crowded even in peak season. The black sand and calm, shallow water make it a good option for families with younger children.

Perivolos and Agios Georgios

These two beaches sit side by side on the southern coast and are essentially one long stretch of black sand. Perivolos is the livelier of the two, with beach bars, tavernas, and water sports facilities along the shore. Agios Georgios, just 500 meters further along, is the quieter alternative: same beach, fewer people, slower pace. If you want the southern coast vibe without the full party atmosphere, Agios Georgios is the one to pick.

Vlychada

Also on the southern coast, Vlychada tends to attract visitors who’ve already done the main beaches and are looking for something a bit different. The white pumice cliffs behind the beach give it an almost lunar atmosphere and it’s one of the more visually striking spots on the island and still relatively under the radar compared to the eastern beaches. Go for the scenery as much as the swimming.

Red Beach

The most photographed beach on Santorini and one of the most recognizable in all of Greece. Located 8 km southwest of Fira near the village of Akrotiri, the Red Beach gets its name from the towering red and black volcanic cliffs that frame it. The contrast with the deep blue Aegean is genuinely spectacular, and snorkeling among the underwater volcanic rocks is a popular activity here.

A critical word of warning: due to severe recent landslides and ongoing rockfalls, local authorities frequently place total access bans on parts of the beach and the cliff path. Venturing near or sitting directly under the red cliffs is strictly forbidden and highly dangerous. If you do attempt the foot path, it features steep elevation gains and loose, uneven terrain. Sturdy footwear is non-negotiable, so sandals and flip-flops are completely unsuitable. The beach is reachable on foot from the Akrotiri archaeological site, by bus from Fira, or by boat as part of a catamaran tour. Given the access constraints, the boat option is worth considering.

Best time to visit

May, early June, and September are the sweet spots. The sea is warm, the crowds are manageable, and the light is beautiful. July and August are peak season. The eastern beaches in particular get very busy, and the heat is serious. The Red Beach path in full August sun is not for the faint-hearted. October is increasingly popular for a quieter late-season visit when most beaches are still perfectly swimmable.

>> Read more about Weather in Greece

Getting to Santorini

By air

Santorini has its own airport (JTR) with direct flights from across Europe during the summer season — easyJet, Ryanair, British Airways, TUI, and others all fly in. The flight from London takes around three and a half hours.

From the US, United Airlines operates seasonal direct flights from New York/Newark (EWR); travelers from other US cities will typically connect via Athens or another European hub. The airport is small and gets extremely busy in summer, so if you’re flying in July or August, book as early as you can.

>> Read more about Cheap Flights to Santorini

By ferry

The ferry is the classic way to arrive. Sailing into the caldera is one of those travel moments that actually lives up to expectations. From Piraeus in Athens, there are up to 10 daily crossings in summer, with journey times ranging from around 5 hours on a high-speed catamaran to about 8 hours on a conventional ferry. Ticket prices for standard conventional ferries start from around €47 to €59, while high-speed catamarans cost significantly more.

Santorini is also well connected by ferry to nearby Cycladic islands such as Naxos, Milos, Ios, or Mykonos, as well as to islands further away: Crete or Rhodes.

One important note: Santorini’s ferry port, Athinios, sits at the bottom of steep cliffs and is not walkable to Fira, Oia, or any of the beach towns. Have a plan for onward transport before you arrive — a pre-booked transfer is the easiest option, especially in peak season when taxis are thin on the ground.

Getting to the beaches

Most of Santorini’s beaches are reachable by bus from the central station in Fira, with regular services to Kamari, Perissa, and Akrotiri running throughout the summer. For more flexibility, especially if you want to combine several beaches in one day, renting a car or ATV is the practical option. Taxis are available but can be hard to find at peak times, so don’t rely on them for getting back from a remote beach at sunset.

Where to stay

Fira is the most popular base: central, well-connected, and with the caldera views that Santorini is famous for. For something closer to the beaches, Kamari and Perissa both have a solid range of accommodation at every price point, from budget guesthouses to comfortable mid-range hotels steps from the water. If you’re after the full luxury Santorini experience with infinity pools, caldera sunsets, the works, the clifftop hotels in Oia and Imerovigli are where the island really delivers, though you’ll need transport to get to the beaches from there.

>> Book your accommodation in Santorini

Read more about:
>> Hotels in Santorini
>> Hostels in Santorini

Organized Tours

A catamaran tour is one of the best ways to see the southern beaches — Red Beach, White Beach, and the volcanic hot springs — in a single trip without worrying about parking or cliff paths. Most tours include a BBQ lunch and drinks on board, and the sunset versions sell out well in advance during peak season.

Note: this article includes links that may qualify as affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission.

The post Santorini Beaches: Black Sand, Red Cliffs and Volcanic Views appeared first on LooknWalk Greece.

Here’s where to start.

Faliraki Beach

The most developed beach on the island and the one that gets the most attention — for better and worse. Located 14 km from Rhodes Town on the northeastern coast, Faliraki is big, well-organized, and built for a full beach day. Sun beds and umbrellas line the golden sand, water sports are everywhere, and the stretch of restaurants, bars, and beach clubs means you won’t go hungry or thirsty. It’s also just been named Europe’s most affordable beach destination for 2026, which should tell you something about the value on offer here. Busy? Yes. But it earns its reputation.

Tsambika Beach

About 26 km southeast of Rhodes Town, Tsambika is one of the island’s most beautiful beaches — fine golden sand, shallow turquoise water, and a monastery perched dramatically on the hill above. The combination of the beach, the water sports, and that monastery backdrop makes it one of those spots that photographs well and delivers in person. It gets busy in high season but the setting carries it.

Prassonissi Beach

As far south as you can go — 92 km from Rhodes Town and 40 km from Lindos — Prassonissi sits at the very tip of the island where the Aegean and the Mediterranean meet. The result is two beaches in one: calm water on one side, rough water on the other, with a narrow sandy strip connecting the peninsula to the mainland. The rough side is a windsurfer and kitesurfer paradise, particularly in July and August when the Meltemi wind really gets going. If you’re not into water sports, the calm side is perfectly lovely. There’s a taverna nearby and some accommodation for those who want to make a proper trip of it.

Kallithea Beach

After a comprehensive restoration completed in 2007, Kallithea Springs became a popular destination for visitors, events, and even film production. The complex — designed by Italian architect Pietro Lombardi as a fusion of early 20th-century Italian and Moorish styles, with elegant arches, ornate fountains, and pebble-stone mosaics — sits right on the bay, just 9 km from Rhodes Town. The thermal springs themselves are no longer functional, but you can explore the ancient bathing areas, sunbathe and swim in the bay, and there’s a bar on site. Admission is €5. Go in the morning before the tour buses arrive.

Traganou Beach

Just 15 km southeast of Rhodes Town and a short distance from Faliraki, Traganou is a pebble beach rather than a sandy one. What makes it special is the sea cave at one end, carved into the rocks, which gives the whole place an atmosphere the sandier beaches nearby can’t match. The fish taverna here is the reason locals keep coming back. Order whatever they tell you is fresh.

Kalathos Beach

A long, wide stretch of sand-and-pebble mix about 50 km southeast of the capital, near Lindos. It’s quieter than the northern beaches, the water is clean, and wooden sun beds with bamboo umbrellas are available for rent. A good option if you’re spending a day in the Lindos area and want to combine some beach time with the acropolis.

Afandou Beach

The largest beach on the island and one of the least developed can be either a pain or a delight – depending on what you prefer. The sand-and-pebble mix isn’t the island’s finest, but the beach stretches for kilometers and rarely feels crowded even in August. The golf course nearby is the only 18-hole course in the Dodecanese, if that’s relevant to your plans. A handful of tavernas are close by.

Best time to visit

June and September are the sweet spots. The sea is warm, the weather is reliable, and the beaches are busy without being unbearable. July and August are peak season — Faliraki and Tsambika in particular get very crowded, and prices go up accordingly. If you’re after the windsurfing conditions at Prassonissi, July and August are exactly when you want to go. October is increasingly popular for a quieter, warmer-than-you’d-expect late season visit.

>> Read more about Weather in Greece

Getting to Rhodes

By air

Rhodes International Airport Diagoras (RHO) is the third largest airport in Greece and one of the best-connected in the eastern Mediterranean. Ryanair, easyJet, and Jet2 operate most flights to Rhodes, with direct services from across the UK, mainland Europe, and Scandinavia. From London, the flight takes around four hours and fifteen minutes — short enough to make it an easy holiday destination even for a week. From the US there are no direct flights; the standard routing is via Athens or another European hub. The airport is about 14 km southwest of Rhodes Town, and taxis into the center take around 20 minutes.

By ferry

If you’re already island-hopping or coming from Athens , the ferry is a greate option — just go in with realistic expectations on journey time. The fastest conventional crossings take around 15 hours, though many routes take closer to 18 hours depending on island stops, with Blue Star Ferries operating the route year-round. Ticket prices for foot passengers start at around €59, with cabin options available on top — worth booking if you’re on an overnight sailing. In summer there are around 10 crossings per week; outside peak season expect around six. The ferry docks right in Rhodes Town, within walking distance of the Old Town, which is a very civilized way to arrive.

>> Read more about Ferries from Athens to Rhodes (and return)

Rhodes is also well connected to neighboring Dodecanese islands — Kos , Symi, Patmos, and others — making it an easy addition to a wider island-hopping itinerary.

Getting around the island

Rhodes Town is the main hub and most beaches on the eastern coast are reachable by local bus — the network is decent and cheap, with buses running regularly to Faliraki, Kallithea, and further south in summer. For more flexibility, renting a car or scooter is the practical option, especially if you want to reach Prassonissi or explore the quieter southern and western coastline. Taxis are plentiful but agree on the fare before you get in.

Where to stay

Rhodes Town is the best all-round base — central, walkable, and with the UNESCO-listed medieval Old Town on your doorstep. For beach-focused holidays, the resorts around Faliraki put you right on the water with everything on your doorstep, though the atmosphere is unambiguously package-holiday territory. For something more upscale and quieter, the area around Lindos on the eastern coast offers boutique hotels, a beautiful village, and easy access to Kalathos and the southern beaches.

>> Read more about Hotels in Rhodes
>> Book your accommodation in Rhodes

Note: this article includes links that may qualify as affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission.

The post Rhodes Beaches: The Best Places to Swim on the Island appeared first on LooknWalk Greece.

What is Little Venice?

Officially known as Alefkandra, the neighborhood stretches along the waterfront between the old Kastro district and the iconic windmills, on the western edge of Mykonos Town. The houses, two and three-storey, painted in warm colors, with wooden balconies built right at the water’s edge, date back to the 18th century, though the area’s history goes considerably further back than that.

Mykonos was once one of the main stops on the trade route between Venice and Asia, and in the 13th century it came under Venetian rule. The wealthy merchants and sea captains who settled here built their homes in the Venetian style they knew, hence the name that eventually stuck. The resemblance to the Italian city is , therefore, not accidental.

Did you know that those large storage spaces on the lower floors of the houses weren’t just for merchant goods? it is said that Little Venice was used to load ships with pirate loot, and that some of these houses belonged to pirates rather than merchants or sea captains. Mykonos had a well-documented pirate history, and the neighborhood’s position right on the waterfront made it suspiciously convenient for that kind of activity. Whether you believe it or not, it adds a certain edge to what looks, on the surface, like a very pretty row of houses.

The iconic sunset viewed from Little Venice

The main reason most people come to Little Venice is the sunset, and it delivers every single time, weather permitting, of course. The sun drops into the Aegean directly in front of you, the light turns everything gold, and the windmills on the hill behind you complete the picture. It’s one of the best sunsets in Greece. And, yes, Greece has some serious competition in that department, with some of them right in the nearby Cycladic islands of Santorini and Ios.

The bars and restaurants along the waterfront fill up fast as the sun gets lower, so if you want a terrace seat facing the sea, arrive at least an hour before sunset. Yes, it’ll be early. Yes, it’s worth it. Order something, settle in, and let Mykonos do its thing.

What else to do here

By day, Little Venice has a different, quieter character. The narrow streets that wind through the neighborhood were, according to local legend, deliberately designed to confuse pirates navigating the town. Whether that’s true or not, they’ll certainly confuse you, which is part of the charm. Get lost in them. You’ll find art galleries, small boutiques, and the occasional cat who looks like it owns the place.

The windmills of Kato Mili are a two-minute walk away and make a good pairing, especially at sunset when they’re lit up against the sky. The Kastro district, the oldest part of Mykonos Town, is equally close and worth exploring for its atmosphere and the views from the old fortification walls.

Where to eat and drink

Little Venice is not the place to come if you’re watching your budget. The location commands a premium, and everything from a glass of wine to a plate of grilled octopus will cost more here than it would two streets back. That said, for a sunset dinner with your feet practically over the water, most people find it hard to complain.

For a more wallet-friendly approach, grab a drink at one of the waterfront bars. But you’re paying for the view rather than a full meal. And save the serious eating for somewhere in the backstreets of Chora where the prices make more sense.

Visiting Little Venice as part of a Tour

If you’d rather have someone else handle the logistics, a guided tour of Mykonos Town that includes Little Venice is a good option, especially on a first visit when you’d otherwise spend half the afternoon figuring out which alley leads where. Most walking tours of Chora cover Little Venice, the windmills, and the Kastro district as a natural circuit, with a local guide adding the kind of historical context that doesn’t make it onto most travel blogs. Sunset tours are also available and predictably popular, so, if that’s on your list, book early. They sell out.

Where to stay

Staying in Mykonos Town — Chora — puts you within walking distance of Little Venice, the windmills, and pretty much everything else worth seeing on the island. It’s the most convenient base, though convenience in Mykonos comes at a price.

For something a little quieter without straying too far, the areas around Ornos and Agios Ioannis on the south coast are a good middle ground — easy beach access and a calmer vibe, with Chora close enough for an evening out. If budget genuinely isn’t a concern, the clifftop hotels around Psarou are where Mykonos does luxury properly, and the views justify every euro.

>> book your accommodation in Mykonos

A few practical notes

Little Venice gets extremely busy between June and September, particularly in the evenings. If you’re visiting in peak season and want to experience it without the crowds, early morning is genuinely lovely: the light is soft, the streets are quiet, and the sea is right there. It’s a different experience from the sunset crowds but an equally good one.

Wear comfortable shoes. The cobblestones are pretty but uneven, and the steps between levels catch people out. And if you’re thinking about staying in one of the houses right on the waterfront — they exist, and yes, they’re magical — just know that the price tag tends to reflect the address.

Note: this page includes links that may qualify as affiliate links; if you book through them, I may earn a small commission.

The post Little Venice: The Most Romantic Sunset Spot on the Island of Mykonos appeared first on LooknWalk Greece.

A bit of history

During the 16th century, when Mykonos was under Venetian rule, the island became an important maritime hub in the Aegean: a central point for trade between Europe and Asia, especially in wheat and barley. The island’s near-constant winds made it an obvious location for grain mills, and at their peak, over 20 windmills operated across Mykonos, grinding agricultural products for the island and for passing trade ships.

A total of 16 windmills survive today on the island, standing well preserved, with some now turned into private homes. The most famous cluster is the Kato Myloi (the Lower Windmills): five cylindrical structures with conical thatched roofs, lined up on a hill southwest of Chora with the sea directly below them. They’re the ones on every postcard, and they deserve the attention.

The Upper Windmills of Hora and the mills of Ano Meria served the local residents and surrounding countryside, while the Lower Windmills were traditionally used for grinding products that came from outside the island, a distinction that reflected how central Mykonos was to Aegean trade at the time. Building near the mills was strictly forbidden, as any structure nearby would have disrupted the wind flow and damaged the rotating mechanism.

The Bonis Windmill

The most iconic individual windmill is the Bonis Windmill, now a museum showcasing traditional milling techniques and Mykonian life. You can visit it from June to September, in the evening hours, from 4pm to 8pm. On the ground floor you can see where the flour was weighed; upstairs is where supplies were stored. It’s a small museum but a genuinely interesting one, and the climb up to it alone is worth it for the views over the island.
The Geronymos Mill is another one worth knowing about. Though privately owned, it’s the oldest windmill on the island and dates back to the 18th century. It operated until the 1960s and much of its original mechanism is still intact — a remarkable level of preservation for a structure of its age.

When to visit the windmills of Mykonos

Without a doubt: at sunset! The light on the whitewashed walls at golden hour is exactly as good as it looks in photos: which, on Mykonos, is saying something. That said, should you opt to rise early and visit the mills at sunrise, you’ll likely get fewer people in your photos. In peak season the windmills area can get genuinely crowded, particularly when cruise ships are in port.

The area is free to peruse, though you might be encouraged to part with your euros should a drink, snack or trinket catch your eye.

What to combine them with

The windmills sit right next to Little Venice, a district famous for its seaside houses with colorful balconies and lively atmosphere, which makes combining the two a great choice. The bars and restaurants along the waterfront are perfect for a post-windmill drink as the sun goes down. The nearby Paraportiani Church, one of the oldest and most architecturally unique churches on the island, is also within easy walking distance and worth a look.

Organized tours

The windmills are easy enough to reach on foot from Chora, but if you want to see more of the island in one go, half-day island tours include stops at the Kato Myloi windmills, Little Venice, Panagia Tourliani Monastery, and Kalafatis Beach, with local guides who add context you wouldn’t get wandering alone. For cruise ship passengers, shore excursion options are widely available with port pickup included.

Where to stay

If you want to have easy access to the windmills (particularly if you want to take photos at sunrise), staying in Mykonos Town (Chora) is the best choice. You’re a short walk from the windmills, Little Venice, and everything else the town has to offer.

For something quieter while still being central, the area around Ornos and Agios Ioannis on the south coast strikes a good balance: close enough to walk or take a short taxi into town, far enough to escape the late-night noise.

If budget isn’t a concern, the clifftop hotels around Psarou Beach are where Mykonos does luxury properly, with the kind of sea views that make it very hard to leave your terrace in the morning.

>> book your accommodation in Mykonos

The view from the sea

One last tip: if you’re arriving or leaving Mykonos by ferry, get yourself to the deck as you approach the port. Catching a glimpse of the windmills from the water, lined up on the hill, white against the sky, is one of those travel views that that should be on your bucket list. Don’t miss it.

Note: this article includes links that may qualify as affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission.

The post Mykonos Windmills appeared first on LooknWalk Greece.

The soil in Santorini

After the cataclysmic volcanic eruption of around 1645 BC, the entire island was buried under lava, ash, and pumice stone. Out of that disaster came something unexpected: soil that turned out to be almost perfect for growing grapes. The vines grow on the eastern slopes of the caldera’s edge, all the way down to sea level near the famous black beaches.

What makes this soil so special is its ability to retain moisture. The volcanic ash absorbs the humidity that builds up overnight, giving the vines just enough water to survive the scorching summer temperatures without irrigation. And because the winds in Santorini are notoriously strong, the vines are trained into a low basket shape, a technique called koulara, which protects the grapes and concentrates their flavors. It’s a farming method that looks almost prehistoric and works beautifully.

The wines of Santorini

The undisputed star of Santorini wine is Asyrtiko ( also spelled Assyrtiko ) which accounts for around 75-80% of the island’s vineyard area. It produces dry white wines with a striking combination of high acidity, high alcohol, and a mineral, smoky character that comes directly from the volcanic soil. Hints of citrus, sea salt, and flint are typical. Traditionally it’s blended with Aidani Aspro and Athiri, though single-varietal Asyrtiko has become increasingly prestigious and is now replanted in other parts of Greece, though without quite the same magic as the original.

For something sweeter, Vinsanto is the one to try. Made from sun-dried grapes, left out for around ten days to concentrate their sugars, it’s naturally sweet, occasionally fortified, and must be barrel-aged for at least two years. The result is a rich, complex dessert wine with aromas of chocolate, honey, dried apricots, and flowers, and a lower alcohol content than you might expect. Mezzo is a lighter dessert wine in the same family, less sweet than Vinsanto and a good entry point if you’re not usually a dessert wine person.

Santorini isn’t known for its reds, but that’s slowly changing. Mavrotragano in particular has had something of a comeback in recent years and is gaining real recognition in premium wine production. Mandilaria is another red cultivar worth knowing, often used in blends.

The wineries of Santorini

There are over 20 wineries on the island, which is remarkable given its size. The major names include Santo Wines, Boutaris, Estate Argyros, Sigalas, Gavalas, Hatzidakis, and Volcan Wines, the latter also home to the island’s Wine Museum. For a more intimate experience, Art Space Winery near Exo Gonia is built into a centuries-old cave and doubles as an art gallery; it consistently comes up as a favorite among visitors who stumble across it.

The Wine Museum

The Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum in Vothonas is worth a visit even if you’re not a dedicated wine enthusiast. Set eight meters underground in a naturally carved cave, it takes you through the history of winemaking on the island in a 300-meter labyrinthine chamber. The audio guide covers everything from the Bronze Age to modern production methods, and there’s a wine tasting included at the end.

The museum is open April through October from 9am to 7pm Monday to Saturday, and 10am to 7pm on Sundays. From November to March hours are 9am to 5pm Monday to Saturday, and 10am to 5pm on Sundays. Separate tickets for the museum are not available; it can only be visited as part of a wine tasting experience. Standard packages (which include museum entry, an audio guide, and a tasting of 4 wines) start at €30 per person. Last entry is one hour before closing.

Wine tours

If you want to visit more than one winery without spending half the day figuring out the back roads, an organized tour is the smart option. Most run around four to four and a half hours and include stops at three wineries, wine tastings, and a platter of local snacks. Some tours add a sunset stop with caldera views. If that’s your thing, book it early because those sell out fast, especially between May and September.

For something more flexible, private tours are available and worth considering if you have specific interests, such as organic wines, cave cellars, or simply not wanting to share the experience with a busload of strangers. There are also combination options that pair winery visits with a cooking class, which is a fun way to spend a full day.

Note: this article includes links that may qualify as affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission.

The post Santorini Wines appeared first on LooknWalk Greece.

One small confession before we go further: they’re not actually butterflies. The thousands of creatures that descend on the valley every summer are Jersey Tiger Moths: Panaxia quadripunctaria, if you want to get technical about it. Beautiful ones, mind you, and the name has stuck for decades, so we’re not going to fight it.

Where is the Valley of the Butterflies?

Petaloudes is located on the western side of Rhodes, about 26 km from Rhodes Town, between the villages of Paradisi and Theologos. It’s easily reached by car, local bus, or as part of an organized tour from Rhodes Town.

What will you see in the Valley of the Butterflies?

Photo credit: Aldo Ardetti

The valley itself is worth the trip even if you’re not particularly into moths. A stream runs through it, forming small pools and gentle waterfalls along the way. The path winds uphill through stone steps and wooden bridges, past the rare Zitia trees (Oriental Sweetgum) whose resin produces a sweet vanilla-like scent that attracts the moths in the first place. At the top of the path, the Monastery of the Virgin of Kalopetra rewards the climb with a lovely view. At the entrance, a small Natural History Museum showcases endemic and rare species from the valley. Totally worth a quick look before you head in.

The moths are most active between mid-June and September, with August being peak season when they gather to reproduce. During this period, they don’t eat at all, surviving entirely on energy stored during the caterpillar stage, which is exactly why visitors are asked not to disturb them. No whistling, no clapping, no sudden movements. When the moths are startled, they take flight, burning through their energy reserves, and that has a direct impact on their survival. The population has already declined significantly over the years largely due to visitor disturbance, so it’s worth taking the rules seriously.

If you visit outside peak season, the moths may be few or absent entirely, but the valley is still a genuinely lovely walk, cool and shaded when the rest of Rhodes is baking.

Visiting with kids

Petaloudes is a great choice for families, and kids tend to love it, though it helps to set expectations before you arrive. The “no noise” rule is the big one. Frame it as a game rather than a restriction: whoever spots the most moths without making a sound wins. It works surprisingly well.

The path itself is manageable for older children, but the stone steps and uneven terrain mean it’s not ideal for pushchairs or toddlers who aren’t steady on their feet yet. Wear comfortable shoes (and this goes for adults too) and bring water, especially in July and August when the heat is serious even in the shade.

The Natural History Museum at the entrance is a nice warm-up for curious kids, and the souvenir shops on the way in will inevitably need to be negotiated. Budget accordingly.

Opening hours and tickets

The valley is open daily from May through September. Tickets are €3 to €6 per person depending on the season, with children under 12 entering free. The path to the Monastery of Kalopetra is open year round. For the best experience, go early in the morning when it’s cooler, quieter, and the moths are at their most settled.

Organized tours

If you’d rather not worry about transport, joining an organized tour is a perfectly good option. Most Rhodes island tours include Petaloudes as one of the stops, often combined with other highlights like Lindos, the Ancient Acropolis, or a traditional village lunch. Half-day tours focused specifically on the valley are also available if you want a more relaxed pace. Either way, having a guide adds context that you’d otherwise miss such as the story of the Zitia trees, the moth lifecycle, the conservation concerns. Plus it makes the visit more interesting.

What to combine it with

Petaloudes sits on the western side of the island, which makes it easy to build a logical route around it. The village of Theologos nearby is worth a stop for lunch. There are plenty of tavernas that serve local food.

Continuing south, the medieval village of Embonas is Rhodes’ wine village and sits in the foothills of Mount Attavyros; if you’re a wine person, it pairs nicely with a morning at the valley. The Monastery of Kalopetra at the top of the valley path is already part of the experience, but if you want more monastery energy, Filerimos on the way back towards Rhodes Town is a beautiful detour with sweeping views over the island.

Note: this article includes links that may qualify as affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission.

The post Rhodes: The Valley of the Butterflies appeared first on LooknWalk Greece.

Santorini is linked to many islands which makes it a great starting point when you plan to explore Greece’s islands. Some of the islands are very close and can be visited during a day trip, while others are located further away and you should allow several days for such a trip.

Rhodes is one of the islands located further from Santorini and which can be a nice stop on your island hopping itinerary. It might not be one of the cheapest destinations in Greece but is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful and romantic Greek island.

Santorini or Thira?

When you look up the ferries between two islands, you are actually looking for connections between ports. So, in most online booking systems and on official schedules, look for Thira (Santorini). The port code is ATI.

Rhodes or Rodos?

Although the English speaking world uses “Rhodes” for the island’s name, you’ll find the island referred to as Rodos (sometimes also spelled as Rhodos), especially on the online booking sites. The port code is ROD.

How long does it take to get from Santorini to Rhodes?

It takes between 15 and 24 hours to get from Santorini to Rhodes on the ferries operated by Aegeon Pelagos.

Is there a high speed ferry between Santorini and Rhodes?

Not exactly. All ferries carry both passengers and vehicles.

How much does it cost to get from Santorini to Rhodes by ferry?

The prices depend on the company and type of ferry, as well as on the class.

The single ticket on a slow ferry (people and cars) operated by Blue Star Ferries starts at 26 EUR on the deck.

How many ferries per day depart from Santorini to Rhodes during the low season?

The following ferries connect Santorini to Rhodes during the low season 2026 (May, September – October):

How many ferries per day depart from Santorini to Rhodes during the high season?

The following ferries connect Santorini to Rhodes during the high season 2026 (June-August):

Are there any overnight journeys between Santorini and Rhodes ?

Yes, there are ferries which run during the night.

How about the ferries from Rhodes to Santorini ?

The 2025 high season schedule is not yet available. However, you can get an idea of possible sailing days / hours by checking out last year’s schedule.

The following ferries connect Rhodes to Santorini during the high season 2026 :

The following ferries connect Rhodes to Santorini during the low season 2026:

Where can I buy tickets from?

Tickets can be purchased online here , from the ferry companies’ website and even from travel agencies. But the simplest way is to get the tickets from the port. If you plan to travel during the high season (July & August), make sure to buy the tickets several days in advance.

Does everyone charge the same prices?

The prices are the same regardless of where you purchase them from. However, when you purchase online and choose to have the tickets delivered at home you will pay a fee. You can also choose to pick up the tickets from the port.

Important note:

The ferry companies submit their schedules every Friday to the Ministry of Mercantile Marine and in some cases the schedules for July & August become available on online booking sites only several days before the vessels start operating on that route. So make sure to check the schedule several weeks before departure.

Read more about:

>> Ferries in Greece
>> Ferries from Athens: How to deal with the Port of Piraeus
>> Ferries from Athens to Aegina
>> Ferries from Athens to Crete
>> Ferries from Athens to Karpathos
>> Ferries from Athens to Hydra
>> Ferries from Athens to Mykonos
>> Ferries from Rafina to Mykonos
>> Ferries from Athens to Patmos
>> Ferries from Athens to Santorini
>> Ferries from Santorini to Crete
>> Ferries from Mykonos to Syros
>> Ferries from Santorini to Mykonos
>> Ferries from Santorini to Naxos
>> Ferries from Alonissos to Skopelos
>> Ferries from Corfu to Patras
>> Ferries from Rhodes to Kos
>> Ferries to and from Santorini
>> Ferries from Athens to Paros
>> Ferries from Mykonos to Crete
>> Ferries from Santorini to Karpathos
>> Ferries from Thessaloniki to Lesvos
>> Ferries to and from Mykonos
>> Ferries from Crete to Gavdos
>> Ferries from Santorini to Paros
>> Ferries from Mykonos to Ios
>> Ferries from Mykonos to Tinos
>> Ferries from Thessaloniki to Rhodes
>> Ferries from Athens to Naxos
>> Ferries from Athens to Thessaloniki
>> Ferries from Santorini to Syros
>> Ferries from Kavala to Thassos
>> Ferries from Alonissos to Skiathos
>> Ferries from Athens to Lesvos (Lesbos)
>> Ferries from Thessaloniki to Kos
>> Ferries from Thessaloniki to Chios

Note: *The article was first published in 2009; latest schedule update was made as of May 2026.
This post includes links that may qualify as affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you).

The post Ferries from Santorini to Rhodes (and return)[Updated 2026] appeared first on LooknWalk Greece.

Particularly know for its natural sponges, Karpathos – part of the Dodecanese – is a great destination if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Santorini . Since it takes 8 hours to reach Karpathos by ferry from Santorini, it’s a good idea to plan several days on the island or include it in an island hopping itinerary.

Santorini or Thira?

When you travel by ferry you need to look up the name of the ports. While in many cases you can use the name of the islands, there’s always some exception so it’s useful to know that Santorini is referred to as “Thira” (port code: ATI) on some booking websites.

Karpathos or Diafani?

Both. Ferries from Santorini arrive in and depart from Karpathos (KAH) and Diafani (DIA) ports. Diafani is the main port in the northern part of the island. The island’s main port is Karpathos.

How long does it take to get from Santorini to Karpathos ?

The sailing takes between 6h 40 min and up to 11h 35 min (Santorini to/from Karpathos port) depending on the vessel and routing; and between 8 h and 13 h (Santorini to/from Diafani), also depending on the vessel and routing.

Is there a high speed ferry between Santorini and Karpathos ?

Not exactly, but the fastest sailing takes 6h 40 min to /from Karpathos port, although it’s on a regular ferry (people and cars).

How much does it cost to get from Santorini to Karpathos by ferry?

The prices depend on the port and operator. In 2026, expect to pay:

• Blue Star Ferries, to/from Diafani: €24 one way for an adult
• Blue Star Ferries, to/from Karpathos port: €27 one way for an adult

How many ferries per day depart from Santorini to Karpathos during the low season?

During the low season 2026 (May, Sept-Oct), the following ferries connect Santorini to Karpathos:

To Karpathos

To Diafani

How many ferries per day depart from Santorini to Karpathos during the high season?

The 2026 high season lasts between June and August. The following ferries are available :

To Karpathos

To Diafani:

Are there any overnight journeys between Santorini and Karpathos ?

Yes.

How about the ferries from Karpathos to Santorini ?

During the 2026 high season the following ferries link the two islands:

From Karpathos

From Diafani

During the low season 2026, the following ferries connect Karpathos to Santorini:

From Karpathos:

From Diafani:

Where can I buy tickets from?

Tickets can be purchased online but there are some restrictions; generally speaking you can purchase the tickets at most 2 months in advance if the schedule is approved by the Ministry of Mercantile marine. Tickets can also be purchase from travel agents. But it’s best to buy them directly from the port, several days before departure.

Does everyone charge the same prices?

The prices are the same, no matter if you buy them online, from travel agents or from the port.

Important note:

It’s always a good idea to double check the schedule couple of weeks prior to departure. Each Friday the schedule is submitted to the Ministry of Mercantile Marine so changes might occur.

Read more about:

>> Ferries in Greece
>> Ferries from Athens: How to deal with the Port of Piraeus
>> Ferries to and from Santorini
>> Ferries from Athens to Aegina
>> Ferries from Athens to Crete
>> Ferries from Athens to Karpathos
>> Ferries from Athens to Hydra
>> Ferries from Athens to Mykonos
>> Ferries from Rafina to Mykonos
>> Ferries from Athens to Patmos
>> Ferries from Athens to Santorini
>> Ferries from Santorini to Crete
>> Ferries from Mykonos to Syros
>> Ferries from Santorini to Mykonos
>> Ferries from Santorini to Naxos
>> Ferries from Alonissos to Skopelos
>> Ferries from Corfu to Patras
>> Ferries from Rhodes to Kos
>> Ferries from Athens to Paros
>> Ferries from Mykonos to Crete
>> Ferries from Thessaloniki to Lesvos
>> Ferries to and from Mykonos
>> Ferries from Mykonos to Paros (and return)
>> Ferries from Crete to Gavdos
>> Ferries from Santorini to Rhodes
>> Ferries from Santorini to Paros
>> Ferries from Mykonos to Ios
>> Ferries from Mykonos to Tinos
>> Ferries from Thessaloniki to Rhodes
>> Ferries from Athens to Naxos
>> Ferries from Athens to Thessaloniki
>> Ferries from Santorini to Syros
>> Ferries from Kavala to Thassos
>> Ferries from Alonissos to Skiathos
>> Ferries from Athens to Lesvos (Lesbos)
>> Ferries from Thessaloniki to Kos
>> Ferries from Thessaloniki to Chios

Note:
This article includes links that may qualify as affiliate links. If you book through them, I may get a small commission (at no additional cost to you).
The article was first published in 2009. The latest schedule and price update was made as of May 2026.

The post Ferries from Santorini to Karpathos (and return)[Updated 2026] appeared first on LooknWalk Greece.