Santorini travel tips
The small, useful things that make a trip run smoothly — money, language, power, connectivity, staying safe and a few local customs worth knowing before you arrive.
The essentials: Santorini uses the Euro (€) and is part of the EU. The language is Greek, but English is widely spoken. Power is 230 V, plug types C/F. Mobile coverage is good. Tap water isn't for drinking — buy bottled. For any emergency, dial 112.
The little things that help
Santorini is an easy place to travel: it's in the EU and the Eurozone, English is widely spoken, and the island is small and well set up for visitors. A handful of practical details — outlined below — will save you a few small headaches and let you relax into the trip.
If you're visiting from outside the EU, check passport and visa requirements before you travel. Within the Schengen Area, EU/EEA visitors travel freely; many other nationalities can visit visa-free for short stays, but always confirm the current rules for your country.
Know before you go
Money 💶
Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted; carry cash for small tavernas, kiosks and tips. ATMs are in the main towns.
Language 🗣
Greek is the local language; English is very widely spoken in tourism. A friendly "yassas" (hello) goes a long way.
Power 🔌
230 V, 50 Hz, plug types C and F (two round pins). Travellers from the UK, US and elsewhere need an adapter.
Connectivity 📶
Good 4G/5G across the island and free Wi-Fi in most hotels and cafés. EU roaming applies for EU SIMs.
Health 🏥
Pharmacies are well stocked; there's a health centre in Fira. EU visitors should carry an EHIC/GHIC; everyone should have travel insurance.
Water 💧
Drink bottled water — much of the tap supply is desalinated or brackish. Tap water is fine for washing.
Local know-how & etiquette
- Mind the steps and cliffs — paths are cobbled, steep and sometimes slippery. Flat, grippy shoes and a little care go a long way.
- Respect the afternoon lull — some smaller shops close in the early afternoon, then reopen in the evening.
- Dress modestly for churches — cover shoulders and knees when visiting chapels and monasteries.
- Bathroom plumbing — as across much of Greece, put toilet paper in the bin provided, not the toilet.
- Drive on the right — and take care on narrow village lanes; quad bikes are fun but easy to underestimate.
- Sun smarts — the Aegean sun is strong; hat, sunscreen and water, even on breezy days.
- Tipping — not compulsory; rounding up or 5–10% for good service is welcomed.
Have a question we haven't covered? Our FAQ goes deeper, or just get in touch.
Frequently asked
The currency is the Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops, but it's wise to carry some cash for small tavernas, kiosks, markets and tips. ATMs are available in the main towns.
Santorini is generally very safe, with low crime. The main risks are practical: strong sun, slippery steps and cliff edges, and ATV/scooter accidents. Dial 112 across Greece for any emergency.
Tap water on Santorini is generally not recommended for drinking — much of it is desalinated or brackish. Locals and visitors drink inexpensive bottled water, which is sold everywhere. Tap water is fine for washing and brushing teeth.
Planning something special?
We're on the island year-round and happy to help — whether it's a proposal or just a question about your trip.