This Iconic Greek Destination Is A Tourist's Dream, But Is It Worth The Cost?

If you're planning to visit Greece next summer, the iconic Red Beach, Ancient Thira, and the scenic charm of Oia and Fira are likely high on your list of places to visit. However, leave room in your visions of Santorini for the thousands of strangers who will be enjoying the sunsets with you at the same time. That's because during peak travel seasons — late June to early September — the Greek island welcomes a massive influx of tourists. Mayor of Santorini, Nikolaos Zorzos, stated via Reuters that 2023 saw 3.4 million people visiting the island. Although he promised to push down the daily cap on cruise ship visitors from 17,000 to 8,000 visitors in 2025, that crowd can easily take away from the serene experience you expect, leaving you asking if it is really worth it.

Sure, you can visit during the shoulder seasons— spring and fall — but there are downsides. One, you get pleasant weather but the sea temperatures can be cooler, which might not be ideal for swimming. Another is the shorter daylight hours, which means less time for sightseeing each day. This could affect your plans, especially if you want to experience Santorini's famous sunsets that will occur earlier in the day during these months. Then, there is the cost.

Santorini is quite expensive. Your experience will largely rely on accommodations and dining, with luxury options inflating your budget. On average, you could spend about $272 daily. Accommodation costs fluctuate but during peak seasons, average hotel rates rise to $152 per night and you can expect to pay around $633 at upscale locations. Budget-friendly options like hostels cost around $14.58 to $20.83 per night for a dorm bed — and this may be the best route to combine frugal tips to save money without sacrificing too much.

Dining also adds up, with an average daily food expense of over $100 per person, which can increase at high-end restaurants. You might spend all that and still not get the Santorini experience. Places like Oia, once known for stunning views and sunsets, are now jam-packed, feeling more like busy shopping areas than quiet getaways. Besides, Santorini might not be worth it if you prioritize the environment.

Too many tourists means more accommodation, which means more hotels, leading to pollution. Mayor Nikolaos Zorzos was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "We live in a place of barely 25,000 souls and we don't need any more hotels or any more rented rooms," he warned, "If you destroy the landscape...you destroy the very reason people come here in the first place." Although you will contribute to the over $400 million in revenue made across the island during busy months, the negative impacts might make you think twice about visiting.

Santorini is without a doubt an interesting place to vacation, but whether your trip will be worth the cost depends heavily on your individual preferences and the type of experience you seek. If you thrive in bustling environments, Santorini's peak seasons are an energetic atmosphere with numerous social opportunities and events. On the other hand, if you seek a peaceful getaway you may find the crowds unpleasant, which would diminish your experience and perceived value of the trip.

To escape the crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience, visit some lesser-known but equally enchanting spots around the island, like Exo Gonia. This tucked-away village offers a slice of traditional Santorini, away from the busy tourist spots. Check out Panagia Episkopi church and enjoy local wines at the Art Space Winery, which also features an art gallery. For a taste of local cuisine, we recommend taverna Metaxi Mas.

Vothonas is another spot to explore for a quieter experience. Often called the "Balcony of the Aegean," this village has stunning caldera views with less of the hustle and bustle found in more popular spots like Fira and Oia. The hike to Skaros Rock is highly recommended for breathtaking views and a bit of adventure. These spots provide a quieter, more intimate experience of Santorini that can be worth the expense, depending on what you value most in a vacation.