Santorini on a budget
FREE things to do
This island doesn't just have to be for the rich.
Walk around the town of Oia
Yes, it’s that extremely famous [post-card perfect] place that you imagine when someone mentions Greece or Santorini. With its white-washed houses sitting all the down the rugged cliff-top.
You can spend so many hours in Oia, its honestly a maze. There are windy paths through all the cute buildings – with amazing views every 6 seconds.
There are little shops everywhere filled with trinkets, souvenirs, (expensive) clothing, jewellery and plenty of fine-dining restaurants.
Watch the sunset in Oia
I have a secret spot (that we accidentally stumbled across) when finding somewhere to watch the Oia sunset.
The WHOLE entire tourist population of this island goes to watch this sunset – its unmissable. And almost everybody goes to the well-known spot that is Oia Castle. A great place, but extremely overcrowded.
So, this is where you go instead:
When you’re spending your day wandering the streets of Oia, sightseeing and all. Keep an eye out for henna advertisements, and places that offer henna designs. You know the books with photos of henna designs to choose from – look for it.
If you see one, check if the store has a little gate (and possibly a little dog too). The store is run by a Greek woman that sells lots of Greek-inspired jewellery signs; evil eye necklaces, rings and colourful trinkets.
Her house/store is on the cliff-side, with a balcony that overlooks the sea.
The lady told us that she has a deal where if we each buy one of here evil-eye bracelets, then we each get a free glass of wine, a cheese board, and a seat at her beautiful and secluded balcony bench for the sunset.
We both paid her 5-10 euros each for this extremely good deal. Sat with our white wine and watched her make our bracelets – where we got to pick the colours and shapes to make them unique. She was so sweet, and her place was amazing.
Afternoon in Ammoudi Bay
Another picturesque place to visit on the island. If you’re staying or spending the day in Oia then Ammoudi bay is worth a visit.
Only 278+ steps to walk down from Oia. It does take bout 15 minutes to descend. Please wear good shoes and bring a water bottle – because you’re going to have to walk back up them when you leave.
When you get down all those stairs, turn left. You walk through all the seafood restaurants and follow the off-road path to a swimming area. You can cliff-jump and swim to another close island.
There are no shops or stores at Ammoudi bay – so only go if you fancy eating, swimming, or watching the view.
Hike from Fira to Oia
If you’re up for a hike day, then go for it.
The walk is just over 10 kilometres long. It seems like a lot but there are amazing views the whole way and little towns to walk through and cafes to sit at and rest.
Definitely recommend wearing good closed-in shoes because the trek is a mix of footpath, cobblestone, and dirt path. It’s not difficult at all – just stinking hot in the summer months especially in the direct sunlight.
See Skaros Rock
This is something that is on the hike from Fira to Oia. However, if you don’t feel like walking there – you can drive or take the bus.
Skaros is a rock formation and collection of ruins. It was historically used as a fortress and offers amazing views in all directions.
Pat the Donkeys
In both Fira and Oia, there are the classic donkey rides. However, these poor animals are walking up and down the hundreds of steps carrying people in the heat all day.
But, it you just want to see them – when in Fira, follow the signs to the boat docks. You will see the donkeys all lined up or even walk right past you. It’s not the best smell but we loved dodging the donkeys on the stairs all day.
Check out the Three Bells of Fira
It’s those classic blue and white domes and church bells. This attraction was officially known as The Catholic Church of the Dormition. Easily noticeable if you’re walking through Fira for the day.
Beach day at Perissa
Spend the day relaxing on the sun lounges and swimming in the crystal clear waters. You can take the bus to Perissa beach from Fira.
The Fira bus system is easy and very touristy friendly. It only costs a couple euros – just be sure to have coins handy.
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