Christmas on Santorini? Why not? The island is delightful when the tourist crowds return to their homes. It is peaceful and romantic, nothing like the Santorini you may experience in the warm months.
Oia looks somehow deserted around Christmas time, but you can still enjoy Santorini if you find accommodation in Fira, which is the capital of the island and its largest city. Here there are still hotels catering to tourists as well as several restaurants and cafes that serve the local population.
But what is Santorini truly like at Christmas? As famous as the sunsets may be, the sunrise on Santorini is equally spectacular, especially in winter. Some of the most beautiful celestial spectacles take place when the tourists are far from the island. This is the best time to visit Santorini armed with a professional camera. Shots like these are rare, especially when you want them unperturbed by chatty foreign visitors.
Although not a tourist attraction during the Holiday season, Santorini does decorate in joyful Christmas colors to celebrate. There will be huge Christmas trees, and even donkey figurines dressed up like Santa to make you giggle.
The best winter activities in Santorini are nature hikes. The weather is cold, but not unbearable. The freshness of the air powers up the active traveler who loves discovering new itineraries.
“You will have the chance to see some of the most impressive views that are not blocked by crowds, and this also means there are lots of good photo opportunities,” explains Santorini photographer Anna Sulte.
Are you planning to visit Santorini for Christmas holidays?
Keep in mind that the average temperature in Santorini in December is 13°C. Ferries and boat trips depend on weather conditions. Most hotels are closed for the season and on Christmas Day in many bars and restaurants that remain open, you can enjoy a Christmas meal with traditional cuisine and drinks.
As far as how to get there, you can find ferry rides from Piraeus, Athens to Thira Direct flights are also available during Christmas and New Year. The simplest way is to book a direct flight from Athens.
