From the first moment you set foot on this unique and special island in every way, you will feel the need to visit Santorini again and again. What makes it unique and special among others is its volcanic terrain, intense color changes, its history, its distinct beaches and the view that literally takes your “breath away” from whichever side of the island you are.
It is the southernmost island of the Cyclades. The terrain of the island is volcanic and from the side of the volcano the island is extremely rocky. An extremely important archaeological wealth contributes to the special physiognomy of Santorini: the Ancient City in Mesa Vounos and the Prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri.
Santorini also has a unique heritage of folk traditional architecture, in the settlements of Vothona, Messaria, Finikia and Megalochori, and sophisticated fortified settlements at Pyrgos, Emporio and Akrotiri
The climate of the island is cool due to the north-easterly winds and the winter is sweet and mild with an average temperature of 10oC. Rains are frequent in winter and almost non-existent in summer. The soil is fertile and favors the cultivation of vines and tomatoes. The island is almost arid with little spring water
Today Santorini has 7000 permanent residents scattered in its 10 or so villages. Fira is the capital of the island and Oia, one of its most beautiful villages known throughout the world for its impressive and enchanting sunset. Its “black” beaches, with their steep cliffs and volcanic rocks give the island a special character.
The history of the island
Santorini in ancient times was called Strogyli because of its circular shape which changed with the eruption of the volcano in 1650 BC. and the central part of the island sank thus forming the Caldera. The Phoenicians called her Callisti and the Dorians Thera.
The name Santorini was taken in the 12th century by the Franks who actually called it “Santa Irene”, meaning Saint Peace. The eruption of the volcano was also the important reason for cutting off the large development of the island since until 2000 BC.
Santorini’s events in August 2023
At the end of August, the Municipality of Thira organizes the reenactment of the eruption of the volcano. Thousands of sparklers and flares, accompanied by muffled noises, evoke memories of the volcano’s eruption, fear and awe both for local residents and visitors to the island. At the end of the evening there is a concert by well-known Greek artists.
In the village of Akrotiri, the process of performing the traditional Santorini wedding is presented once during the summer, accompanied by various funny events and customs.
Fira: the base village of Santorini
Fira is the largest center and capital of Santorini. This is where you will arrive and probably stay. Its cobbled streets are full of restaurants, cafes, hotels and souvenir shops. You can take a tour of Santorini!
Oia: the most famous village of Santorini
Oia is the most photographed and advertised village of Santorini. Yes, the one you saw in thousands of Instagram photos and travel agency offers
The sunsets from here, overlooking Ammoudi Bay and the perfect lodges built into the volcanic rock, are widely considered to be among the best in the world, attracting thousands of tourists every afternoon
The most famous view is from the Castle of Oia, but you can imagine how many people there are. If you want to get a good spot, be sure to arrive early
Mesa Gonia: vines at the foot of the mountain
Also called Episkopi Gonias, it is a village in the interior of the island, surrounded by vineyards and at the foot of Mount Prophet Elias, the highest point of the island and which has a monastery at the top that you can visit
It is a quiet place famous for its wine production. If you are interested in doing a tasting, at the entrance of the town is the Canava Roussos winery, the oldest in Santorini (1836)
The church of Panagia tis Episkopi is its great symbol, built in the 11th century and surviving the great earthquake of 1956 that destroyed a large part of the city.
Emporio: a classic Santorinian village
Although not many, there are still a few places in Santorini that are not overrun with tourists, especially if you are outside of the high season months.
Emporio, the second most populous settlement of Thira, is an inland town with a small fortified historic area of narrow cobbled streets, traditional whitewashed houses and churches with blue domes, built during the Venetian rule in the 15th century, as well as the Tower. of Nibori. It’s a beautiful place to walk at sunset, when the walls are painted re
Much less photographed than Oia, on the outskirts of the city there are some windmills, structures that, although found in many parts of Greece, have become a representative image of Santorini
Nea Kameni: climbing the volcano in August 2023
From Thira you can take a boat that in 20 minutes will drop you in the heart of Santorini: the island of Nea Kameni, located right in the center of the flooded caldera
Climbing the smoking crater at the top of the volcano is an unforgettable experience, passing chimneys that release sulphurous steam along the way. But to make it a happy memory, put on a good sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and bring plenty of water, because there is no vegetation to protect you from the rays. It’s clearly not a good idea to get too close to the crater either.
More to See in Santorini in August 2023
Fira, Oia, Mesa Gonia, Emporio and the volcano, described above, are the heart of any trip. But the island described in the introduction, with its prehistoric settlement at Akrotiri, the ancient city on Mesa Vouno and its traditional and fortified villages, has much more to show. This section adds the other sights you can see in Santorini in August 2023, the conditions to expect and practical advice for the hottest month of the year.
Santorini in August 2023: the weather. As the article above says, rain is almost non-existent in summer. August is hot and sunny, with average highs around 29–30°C and warm nights.
Santorini in August 2023: the wind. The north-easterly winds mentioned above, known as the meltemi, often blow in August. They cool the air but can make the sea rough on exposed coasts and sometimes change boat schedules.
Santorini in August 2023: the sea. The sea reaches its warmest temperatures of the year, around 24–25°C, perfect for long swims.
Santorini in August 2023: the light. The sun sets around 20:20 at the start of the month and about 19:50 by the end.
Santorini in August 2023: the crowds. August is the busiest month of the year, with Greek and international holidaymakers and frequent cruise ships. With good timing, you can still see everything in comfort.
The August 2023 Calendar
The article above describes the reenactment of the volcano’s eruption at the end of August and the traditional wedding in Akrotiri. The month holds other special moments for anyone in Santorini in August 2023.
The full moon on 1 August. In Greece the August full moon is traditionally a time for evening walks, music and gatherings under the moonlight, and on the island the caldera glows silver.
The Perseids, 12–13 August. The Perseid meteor shower peaks in mid-August every year. In 2023 the moon was only a thin crescent at the peak, so the skies were dark. Head away from the village lights, for example towards the lighthouse at Akrotiri, to watch the shooting stars.
15 August. The feast of the Dormition of the Virgin is one of the most important religious holidays in Greece. The church of Panagia Episkopi in Mesa Gonia, described above as the village’s great symbol, celebrates its feast day, and churches across the island hold services and village festivities.
The harvest. The island’s grape harvest takes place in August, so visitors to Santorini in August 2023 can see pickers at work among the vines.
A second full moon, 30–31 August. August 2023 had two full moons. The second, on the night of 30 to 31 August, was a so-called super blue moon, larger and brighter than usual.
Santorini in August 2023 and the eruption reenactment. The fireworks that evoke the eruption, followed by a concert, are one of the most spectacular events of the summer. Arrive early for a good spot.
The Prehistoric Settlement of Akrotiri
The introduction above mentions the Prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri as part of the island’s archaeological wealth. It is one of the most important sights you can see in Santorini in August 2023.
What it is. A Bronze Age town buried by the great eruption, which the article above dates to 1650 BC. The ash preserved streets, squares and multi-storey houses, with storage jars, stairways and doorframes still in place.
The wall paintings. Many of the famous frescoes found here, with scenes of nature, ships and daily life, are displayed at the Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Fira and at the National Archaeological Museum in Athens.
Why it is special. Unlike many ancient sites, few human remains or valuables were found, which suggests the inhabitants had time to leave before the eruption.
Santorini in August 2023 at Akrotiri: the heat. A large roof covers the excavation, so the site is shaded and comfortable even in August. It is one of the best places to spend a hot midday.
Santorini in August 2023 at Akrotiri: timing. Arrive early or late in the day to avoid the busiest hours, when large groups arrive from the cruise ships.
Nearby. Combine the site with the Red Beach viewpoint, the village of Akrotiri with its Venetian fortress, and the lighthouse at the tip of the island.
The Ancient City on Mesa Vouno
The Ancient City on Mesa Vouno, mentioned in the introduction above, is the second great archaeological site on the island. It is worth including in what you see in Santorini in August 2023, as long as you plan around the heat.
The site. Ancient Thera lies along a rocky ridge between Kamari and Perissa. Founded by Dorian settlers, as the history above recalls with the name Thera, it was inhabited for more than a thousand years. You walk past houses, sanctuaries, an agora and a theatre with sweeping views of both coasts.
Getting there. A winding road climbs from Kamari to a small car park below the site, followed by a short but steep walk. Energetic walkers can hike up from Perissa.
Santorini in August 2023 at Ancient Thera: go early. The site has little shade. Visit at opening time, wear a hat and bring water.
Santorini in August 2023 at Ancient Thera: check the days. Opening days and hours can change, so check before you drive up.
Afterwards. Descend to Kamari or Perissa for a swim and lunch by the sea.
Fira in More Detail
The article above introduces Fira as the capital, where you will probably arrive and stay. Beyond its restaurants and shops, the town hides several sights worth seeing in Santorini in August 2023.
The Orthodox Cathedral. The large white cathedral in the centre, with arches, a bell tower and a painted interior, is the landmark of the town.
The Catholic quarter. In the upper part of Fira, quiet lanes surround the Catholic cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, a legacy of the Venetian period described in the history above, when the island took the name Santa Irene.
The caldera walkway. A cliff-top promenade runs along the edge of the town, with views of the volcano and the ships below.
The Old Port. Far below Fira, the Old Port is where boats leave for the volcano. You can reach it by the cable car or on foot down the long stepped path. As the article above says, the boat to Nea Kameni takes about 20 minutes.
Santorini in August 2023 in Fira: the cable car. Queues can be very long when cruise ships are in port. Go early, or walk down and take the cable car back up.
Santorini in August 2023 in Fira: the evening. After sunset, the caldera terraces fill with diners and music, and the lights of the villages spread along the cliffs.
Oia Beyond the Sunset
As the article above says, Oia is the most photographed village of Santorini. Arriving only for the sunset, most visitors miss its quieter treasures, which are well worth seeing in Santorini in August 2023.
The windmills. At the western end of the village, near the castle, white windmills stand on the cliff edge. They are among the most recognisable images of the island.
Captains’ mansions. Oia was once a village of sea captains, and their neoclassical mansions still line some lanes, with high ceilings and decorated facades.
Cave houses. Below the main lane, dozens of homes are carved into the cliff, many now restored as hotels with terraces over the caldera.
The blue domes. The blue-domed churches of Oia, seen against the caldera, are some of the most famous views in Greece.
A famous bookshop. A small bookshop in a cave on the main lane has become a much-loved stop for readers from around the world.
Santorini in August 2023 in Oia: the morning. Before 9:00, the lanes are almost empty and the light is soft, perfect for photos and a quiet coffee.
Santorini in August 2023 in Oia: parking. Parking fills quickly in the afternoon. Arrive early or come by bus, taxi or private tour.
Ammoudi and Armeni Below Oia
The article above calls Oia the most famous village of Santorini and mentions its sunset over Ammoudi Bay. At the foot of the cliffs below Oia, two small harbours are sights of their own in Santorini in August 2023.
Ammoudi. A tiny fishing harbour with a handful of tavernas at the water’s edge, where fresh fish is served a few steps from the boats. The red and black cliffs rise straight above.
Armeni. A smaller cove below the other side of Oia, with a landing stage used by some boats.
Getting down. A long stepped path leads down from Oia to Ammoudi, and a road reaches it by car. The walk down is easy; the climb back up is hard in August, so consider a taxi or car for the return.
Santorini in August 2023 at Ammoudi: a swim. Confident swimmers walk along the rocks from Ammoudi to swim in the deep, clear water nearby. Only swim when the sea is calm.
Santorini in August 2023 at Ammoudi: dinner. After the sunset in Oia, dinner by the water at Ammoudi is one of the most memorable evenings on the island. Book a table in August.
Imerovigli, Skaros and Firostefani
Between Fira, described above as the base village, and Oia lie two caldera villages that are among the most beautiful sights in Santorini in August 2023.
Firostefani. Just north of Fira, a short walk along the caldera. Its terraces look straight over the volcano, and close by stands one of the most photographed churches on the island, the church with the three bells.
Imerovigli. Further north, at the highest point of the caldera rim. Its cave hotels and churches cling to the cliff, and the view takes in the whole caldera.
Skaros Rock. Below Imerovigli rises Skaros, a huge rock where a Venetian castle and the island’s medieval capital once stood. A stepped path leads to its base, and a narrow ledge continues to the tiny chapel of Theoskepasti.
Santorini in August 2023 on the caldera path. The walk from Fira to Firostefani and Imerovigli takes about an hour. In August, walk it early in the morning or after 18:00.
Santorini in August 2023 at sunset. Imerovigli and Skaros offer sunsets as beautiful as Oia’s, with a fraction of the crowd.
Tip. The ledge path at Skaros is exposed; skip it when the meltemi is strong.
Pyrgos and Profitis Ilias
The article above lists Pyrgos among the island’s fortified settlements and mentions the monastery on Mount Prophet Elias above Mesa Gonia. Together they are among the most rewarding sights in Santorini in August 2023.
Pyrgos. The village climbs in rings around the ruins of a Venetian castle, with narrow lanes, arches and churches leading to the top. From there, the view spreads over the vineyards, the caldera and both coasts.
Profitis Ilias. Above Pyrgos, a road winds up to the summit of the island’s highest mountain, at around 560 metres. The 18th-century monastery stands near the top, and the view on a clear day reaches the neighbouring islands.
Santorini in August 2023 in Pyrgos: the evening. Pyrgos is lovely in the late afternoon, when the lanes are cooler and the sunset lights up the whole island. Its tavernas and cafés make it a great place for dinner.
Santorini in August 2023 on Profitis Ilias: the breeze. The summit is often cooler and windier than the villages below, a welcome break from the August heat.
Tip. Parking in Pyrgos is at the edge of the village; walk up through the lanes.
More Around Emporio and the South-East
The article above describes Emporio’s fortified quarter, its tower and its windmills. The surrounding area holds a few more sights to see in Santorini in August 2023.
The Kasteli. Emporio’s fortified quarter, with houses built wall to wall to form a defensive ring and narrow lanes designed to confuse pirates.
The windmills of Emporio. On the hill above the village, a row of old windmills looks over the plain towards Perissa. They are a beautiful sunset spot, far from the crowds.
Agios Nikolaos Marmaritis. Near Emporio, an ancient marble temple that was later turned into a chapel, one of the best-preserved ancient buildings on the island.
Perissa and Perivolos. A short drive away, the long black-sand beaches offer a swim after a morning in Emporio.
Santorini in August 2023 in Emporio: the evening. As the article above suggests, Emporio is beautiful at sunset, when the walls turn golden. Stay for dinner in the village.
Santorini in August 2023 in the south-east: combine. Emporio, Ancient Thera, Perissa and Pyrgos make an easy day with a mix of history, villages and the sea.
The Traditional Villages
The introduction above praises the folk architecture of Vothona, Messaria, Finikia and Megalochori. These quieter villages are a welcome escape from the busy caldera and an essential part of Santorini in August 2023.
Megalochori. A village of whitewashed houses, arches and bell towers, surrounded by vineyards. Its central square, shaded by trees, is lined with tavernas. Old mansions and canaves, the traditional wineries, recall the wealth that wine once brought.
Vothonas. Built in a ravine, with homes and churches dug into the soft volcanic walls. From above you see only doorways, chimneys and domes.
Messaria. A village at the centre of the island, known for its grand mansions from the 19th century, built by wealthy wine merchants.
Finikia. Next to Oia, a small village of pastel houses and quiet lanes, far calmer than its famous neighbour.
Santorini in August 2023 in the villages: when to go. Mornings and evenings are the best times to walk, when the lanes are cool and the light is soft.
Santorini in August 2023 in the villages: local life. In August, many villages celebrate their church feast days with music and food. If you come across a festival, you are usually welcome to watch.
The Lighthouse and the South-West Tip
The article above lists Akrotiri among the fortified settlements. Beyond the village and the prehistoric site, the south-west tip of the island is one of the wildest sights in Santorini in August 2023.
The village of Akrotiri. On the hill above the archaeological site, the village keeps the remains of a Venetian castle, with lanes winding around it.
The lighthouse. At the very end of the road, the lighthouse stands on a headland above the sea. Built in the late 19th century, it is usually closed, but the headland is open and the views are immense.
The caldera from the south. From the lighthouse, you look back along the whole caldera, with Thirasia and the villages of the north on the horizon.
Santorini in August 2023 at the lighthouse: sunset. The sun sets over the open sea, and the atmosphere is calmer than in Oia. Arrive early in August, as the spot has become popular.
Santorini in August 2023 at the lighthouse: safety. The cliffs have no railings, and the wind can be strong. Keep well back from the edge.
On the way. Stop at the Red Beach viewpoint and at small coves along the south coast for a swim.
Beaches to See in Santorini in August 2023
The article above describes the island’s black beaches, with their steep cliffs and volcanic rocks. With the sea at its warmest, here are the beaches worth seeing in Santorini in August 2023.
The Red Beach. Below striking red cliffs near Akrotiri. Rockfalls are a real danger here, so enjoy the view from the viewpoint above the bay, or see it from a boat.
Perissa and Perivolos. Kilometres of black sand on the south-east coast, with sunbeds, beach bars and water sports. They are busy in August but spacious.
Kamari. On the other side of Mesa Vouno, a long pebble-and-sand beach with a lively promenade, close to the airport and to Ancient Thera.
Vlychada. On the south coast, a long beach backed by pale, wind-carved cliffs. It is quieter than Perissa and has a small marina.
The White Beach. A tiny beach under white cliffs, reached only by boat from Akrotiri or on caldera cruises.
Santorini in August 2023 on the beach: the wind. When the meltemi blows from the north, the south coast beaches, such as Vlychada and Perivolos, are usually more sheltered.
Santorini in August 2023 on the beach: the heat. The dark sand gets extremely hot by midday. Bring beach shoes and an umbrella, or rent a sunbed with shade.
The Caldera by Boat
The article above describes the boat trip to Nea Kameni and the climb to the smoking crater. The same trips usually continue to other sights you can see in Santorini in August 2023 from the sea.
The hot springs. Next to Nea Kameni, the older island of Palea Kameni has a bay where warm, iron-rich water colours the sea orange. Boats anchor nearby, and passengers swim to the warm water.
Thirasia. The small island opposite Oia, once part of the same landmass before the eruption. Boats stop at its little harbour for lunch at fish tavernas, and a stepped path climbs to the village of Manolas on the rim.
The caldera cliffs. From the water, the coloured layers of volcanic rock described above rise hundreds of metres, with the white villages perched on top. It is the best way to understand the size of the caldera.
Santorini in August 2023 on a sunset cruise. Catamaran cruises sail along the south coast and the caldera, with swimming stops, a meal on board and the sunset at sea.
Santorini in August 2023 at sea: book ahead. August is the busiest month for boat trips, so reserve a few days in advance.
Santorini in August 2023 at sea: the meltemi. On very windy days, routes may change or trips may be cancelled. Keep a flexible day.
The Vineyards During the Harvest
The article above mentions that the soil favours the cultivation of vines, and that Mesa Gonia is famous for its wine production. August is harvest month, which makes the vineyards a special sight in Santorini in August 2023.
The vines. Island vines are trained low in round basket shapes that protect the grapes from the wind and sun. Look for them in the fields around Pyrgos, Megalochori, Mesa Gonia and Exo Gonia.
The harvest. Grapes are picked by hand, usually in August, in one of the earliest harvests in Europe. Pickers start at dawn to avoid the heat.
The wineries. Tasting rooms are open throughout August, and some wineries let visitors see the grapes arriving and the first stages of winemaking.
The wines. Taste Assyrtiko, the island’s crisp, mineral white, and Vinsanto, the famous sweet wine made from sun-dried grapes.
Santorini in August 2023 with a wine tour. A private wine tour takes you to several wineries without having to drive, and can end with a sunset stop.
Santorini in August 2023: tasting tip. Choose a morning or late-afternoon tasting, when the terraces are coolest.
Museums Worth Seeing
When the midday sun is at its strongest, the museums are a cool way to discover more of what you can see in Santorini in August 2023.
The Museum of Prehistoric Thera, Fira. Finds from Akrotiri, including pottery, tools, jewellery and some of the famous wall paintings.
The Archaeological Museum of Thera, Fira. Near the cable car, with sculptures, inscriptions and vases from Ancient Thera and other sites on the island.
The Maritime Museum, Oia. A mansion that tells the story of the island’s captains and ships, a reminder of why Oia was once a village of seafarers.
The Tomato Industrial Museum, Vlychada. An old canning factory by the sea, recalling the small tomatoes that the article above says the soil favours.
A wine museum near Vothonas. Set in an underground cave, it shows how wine was made on the island through the centuries.
Santorini in August 2023 in the museums: timing. Visit between noon and 16:00, when outdoor sightseeing is least comfortable.
Santorini in August 2023 in the museums: tickets. Check opening hours and ticket options before you go, as they can change.
Summer Flavours to Taste
As the article above says, the island’s soil favours vines and tomatoes. August is the height of the summer harvest, and tasting the local produce is part of what makes Santorini in August 2023 special.
The Santorini tomato. Small, sweet and intensely flavoured, grown without irrigation. Taste it in salads and in tomatokeftedes, the island’s tomato fritters.
White eggplant. A sweet local variety with few seeds, served grilled, in salads or in stews.
Fava. A smooth purée of yellow split peas grown on the island, served with onion, capers and olive oil.
Capers. Capers and caper leaves grow wild on the island and add a salty, tangy note to many dishes.
Katsouni. A local cucumber with a crisp texture, served fresh in summer salads.
Fresh fish. Grilled at the harbour tavernas of Ammoudi, Vlychada and the Old Port.
Santorini in August 2023 at the table. Pair these dishes with a glass of Assyrtiko, and finish with a sip of Vinsanto.
Santorini in August 2023: where to eat. Village tavernas in Pyrgos, Megalochori and Emporio serve the island’s produce in simple, traditional dishes, often at lower prices than on the caldera.
Where to Watch the Sunset in August
As the article above says, the most famous view is from the castle of Oia, and you must arrive early. In August, planning your sunset spot is one of the keys to enjoying Santorini in August 2023.
The castle of Oia. The classic spot, facing Ammoudi Bay and the open sea. In August, arrive at least an hour before sunset.
Imerovigli and Skaros. The sun sets beside the great rock of Skaros, with a calmer atmosphere.
Firostefani and Fira. Terraces with views over the volcano, easy to reach and close to restaurants.
Pyrgos. From the top of the village, the sunset lights up the whole island.
The Akrotiri Lighthouse. A wild headland at the south-western tip, where the sun sinks into the open sea.
From a boat. A sunset cruise shows the villages from below as the sky changes colour.
Santorini in August 2023: sunset times. Around 20:20 in early August and about 19:50 at the end of the month.
Santorini in August 2023: after the sunset. Crowds leave Oia all at once, and buses and roads get busy. Stay for dinner and leave later.
Evenings and Nightlife in August
August nights are warm and long, and the island comes alive after dark. Evenings are among the best experiences in Santorini in August 2023.
Fira. As the article above says, Fira’s cobbled streets are full of restaurants, cafés and bars. After the sunset, the caldera bars fill with music, and a few clubs stay open until late.
Kamari and Perissa. Beach bars, restaurants and a relaxed seaside nightlife, with a summer open-air cinema in Kamari.
Oia. Quieter at night, with romantic restaurants and wine bars overlooking the caldera.
Village tavernas. In Pyrgos, Megalochori and Emporio, dinner in a village square is a relaxed alternative to the busy caldera.
Santorini in August 2023 under the stars. With dark skies in mid-August, a late walk away from the village lights can reveal the Milky Way and, around 12–13 August, the Perseid shooting stars.
Santorini in August 2023: dinner times. Greeks eat late, and restaurants are busiest after 21:00. Book caldera tables for sunset.
Photo Spots for August
Santorini is one of the most photographed places on earth. Here are the best places to photograph in Santorini in August 2023, and the best times to find them calm.
Oia at dawn. The windmills, blue domes and white lanes, empty and softly lit before the crowds arrive.
The three bells near Fira. Early morning, from the path between Fira and Firostefani.
Skaros from Imerovigli. Golden hour, when the rock and the caldera glow in the evening light.
Pyrgos from above. Late afternoon, with the lanes and domes of the village below and the island spread out beyond.
Vlychada’s cliffs. Morning or late afternoon, when the side light brings out the shapes carved by the wind.
The volcano from the sea. From a boat in the caldera, with the villages lined up along the top of the cliffs.
Santorini in August 2023 by night. After sunset, the lights of Fira, Firostefani and Imerovigli form a glowing line along the dark cliffs.
Santorini in August 2023: respect. Many famous rooftops and terraces are private. Photograph from public lanes and viewpoints only.
Where to Stay in August
As the article above says, Fira is where you will probably stay, but your choice of base shapes what you can see in Santorini in August 2023 and how easily.
Fira. The most central base, with buses to every part of the island, a wide choice of restaurants and the Old Port below. It is busy but practical.
Firostefani and Imerovigli. Caldera views and calmer evenings, within walking distance of Fira.
Oia. The most romantic and exclusive base, but the most crowded in the evening and the furthest from the south.
Kamari and Perissa. Beach resorts with flat streets, sea views and lower prices, ideal for families and swimmers.
Pyrgos, Megalochori and Messaria. Traditional villages in the centre of the island, close to the wineries and quieter at night.
Santorini in August 2023: book early. August is the busiest month, so the best rooms are reserved months in advance.
Santorini in August 2023: check the details. Ask about air conditioning, the number of steps to your room, parking and luggage help.
Getting Around in August
With so many sights spread across the island, choosing how to move around is important for Santorini in August 2023.
Public buses. The bus network starts from the central station in Fira and reaches Oia, Imerovigli, Kamari, Perissa, Akrotiri, Pyrgos, Megalochori and the ports. Tickets are cheap, but in August the buses are often full, especially at sunset time towards Oia.
Car rental. A car lets you reach the villages, beaches and viewpoints on your own schedule. Roads are narrow and busy in August, and parking in Oia, Fira and near the Red Beach is limited, so start early.
Quads and scooters. Popular for short distances, but they offer no protection from the sun and are less safe on busy roads. Always wear a helmet.
Taxis. There are few taxis for the number of visitors in August. Book airport and port transfers in advance.
Santorini in August 2023 with a private driver. A private tour or transfer is the most comfortable way to see the island in the heat, with air conditioning, local knowledge and no parking stress.
Santorini in August 2023 on foot. The caldera villages are best explored on foot, but walking between distant villages is not practical in the heat, except along the caldera path early in the morning.
Arriving by Air or Sea
The article above describes Fira as the place where you will arrive. In practice, most visitors land at the airport near Kamari or at the port of Athinios.
The airport. In summer, Santorini receives direct flights from Athens and many European cities. The airport is small and busy in August, so allow extra time for check-in and security on departure.
The port of Athinios. Ferries and fast boats from Piraeus, Rafina and other Cyclades islands arrive at Athinios, below the cliffs south of Fira. A zig-zag road climbs from the port to the villages, and traffic can be heavy when several ships arrive together.
Cruise ships. Cruise passengers are taken by tender to the Old Port below Fira, then up by cable car or on foot.
Santorini in August 2023: arrival transfers. Book your transfer from the airport or port in advance, as buses and taxis fill quickly when ferries and flights arrive.
Santorini in August 2023: ferry tips. Ferries in August are full, so buy tickets early and arrive at the port well before departure.
Santorini in August 2023 on a shore excursion. If you arrive by cruise ship, a private shore tour lets you see Oia, Fira and the south in a few hours and return in time for your tender.
Practical Tips for the Hottest Month
August brings heat and crowds, but a few simple habits make Santorini in August 2023 far more enjoyable.
Start early. See the busiest places, such as Oia, Fira and the Red Beach viewpoint, in the early morning.
Avoid the midday sun. Between noon and 16:00, choose the beach, a museum, a shaded taverna or your hotel pool.
Watch the cruise ships. On days with several ships in the caldera, the cable car and the lanes of Fira are very busy. Visit the south, the villages or the beaches instead.
Drink plenty of water. As the article above says, the island is almost arid and has little spring water. Buy bottled water and carry it everywhere.
Protect yourself from the sun. A hat, sunglasses and high-factor sunscreen are essential, especially on the volcano, as the article above warns.
Book in advance. Hotels, rental cars, boat trips and sunset restaurant tables sell out in August.
Santorini in August 2023 without a car. Buses connect Fira with the main villages and beaches but are crowded in August. A private tour or transfer saves time and stress.
Santorini in August 2023 with children. Plan short outings in the morning and evening, with rest and swimming in between.
Travelling With Children in August
August is the month of school holidays, and many families choose it for their island trip. With some planning, children can enjoy the sights as much as their parents.
The volcano. Walking on black lava to a steaming crater is an adventure that children remember for years. Go on a morning boat, bring water and hats, and keep them away from the edge of the crater, as the article above advises.
The hot springs. Older children who swim well love the warm orange water at Palea Kameni. Younger ones can stay on the boat.
Akrotiri. The buried town, with its streets and houses frozen in time, fascinates curious children, and the roof keeps it shaded.
Beaches. Kamari and Perissa have shallow areas, sunbeds and restaurants close to the sand. Beach shoes protect small feet from the hot black sand.
Santorini in August 2023 with a stroller. The caldera villages have many steps and narrow lanes. A baby carrier is easier in Oia and Fira, while the beach villages are stroller-friendly.
Santorini in August 2023 at a family pace. Plan one outing in the morning and one in the evening, with swimming and rest in between, and choose accommodation with a pool and air conditioning.
Evenings. The open-air cinema in Kamari and ice cream by the sea make simple, happy summer evenings.
A Four-Day Plan for August
This plan links the sights above in a logical order and keeps the hottest hours for the sea or the shade, so you see the best of Santorini in August 2023 without rushing.
Day 1: Fira and the caldera. Morning at the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, midday by the pool, then the caldera path to Firostefani and Imerovigli, with the sunset at Skaros.
Day 2: the volcano and the sea. Morning boat to Nea Kameni, the hot springs and Thirasia. Afternoon on the beach at Perissa or Perivolos.
Day 3: the south. Akrotiri at opening time, the Red Beach viewpoint, lunch in Megalochori, a winery in the afternoon and the sunset at the lighthouse.
Day 4: the north and the villages. Oia early in the morning, Finikia, lunch at Ammoudi, an afternoon rest, then Pyrgos and dinner in the village square.
Santorini in August 2023 in two days. Combine the caldera and Oia on day one, and the volcano with Akrotiri on day two.
Santorini in August 2023 with a private tour. A private tour with a local driver covers Oia, Fira, Pyrgos, Akrotiri and a sunset viewpoint in one day, with air conditioning and no parking stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can you see in Santorini in August 2023?
In Santorini in August 2023 you can see Fira, Oia, Imerovigli and Skaros, Akrotiri, Ancient Thera, Pyrgos, Megalochori, Emporio, Mesa Gonia, the volcano, the hot springs, Thirasia and the beaches, plus the eruption reenactment, the 15 August festivities and the Perseids.
Is Santorini in August 2023 too hot?
August is hot, around 29–30°C, but the meltemi cools the air. Plan outdoor sights for mornings and evenings.
Is Santorini in August 2023 crowded?
Yes, it is the busiest month. Early mornings, the south, the inland villages and a private tour help you avoid the crowds.
Can you swim in Santorini in August 2023?
Yes. The sea is at its warmest, around 24–25°C.
What should you wear in Santorini in August 2023?
Light, breathable clothes, a hat, sunglasses and comfortable shoes with a good grip for the steps and the lava on the volcano. Bring swimwear, beach shoes for the hot sand and a light layer for windy evenings on the caldera. When visiting churches and monasteries, cover your shoulders and knees.
How many days do you need?
Four days let you follow the plan above at a comfortable pace.
Santorini in August 2023 with Santorini Tours. Our private tours take you to the caldera villages, the archaeological sites, the wineries and the best sunset spots, timed to avoid the heat and the crowds. Contact us to plan your visit, and we will suggest the best days and times for each sight based on the cruise ship schedule, the wind and your own interests.
