How Much Does a Trip to Santorini Cost in 2026? Detailed Budget

Dreaming of visiting Santorini, one of the most beautiful Greek islands, famous for its white and blue houses, breathtaking sunsets and volcanic beaches? But wondering how much it's going to cost you?

In this article, we'll break down the different expenses for a trip to Santorini in 2026, depending on your situation (solo, as a couple, as a family), the season and the type of trip you have in mind (5-star luxury, standard or budget). Whether you're travelling from France or elsewhere, you'll have everything you need to plan your budget properly!

01What budget for travelling to Santorini

02How much does a trip to Santorini cost for a solo traveller?

Solo, allow between €822 for a weekend and €3,282 for two weeks in Santorini (see the summary table above). But these amounts can drop significantly with the right strategies.

Accommodation: the hostels in Perissa and Kamari offer dorm beds from €20 in low season. Private rooms in guesthouses in Emporio or Megalochori start at €40–50 a night, 30–40% cheaper than in Fira or Oia.

Optimised itinerary: focus on 2–3 areas. The Fira–Oia hike is free and is the most memorable experience. Combine a beach day (Perissa or Kamari, free) with a volcano excursion (€25–40).

Meals: alternate between gyros (€4–6), local tavernas at lunchtime (€12–18) and home cooking in the evening if your accommodation has a kitchenette. Supermarkets sell excellent local produce for €5–8 per meal.

With a budget of €50 to €80 per day on the island (excluding flights), you'll make the most of Santorini solo.

03What's the budget for a couple in Santorini?

For a couple, plan on between €1,454 (weekend) and €5,618 (two weeks), flights included (see the summary table). Santorini is a very romantic destination, and some experiences are really worth the investment.

Accommodation for couples: a standard room in Fira costs €80–120/night, a caldera-view studio in Imerovigli €120–180, and a suite with a private jacuzzi in Oia €250–500+. Book 3–4 months ahead in high season.

Expériences romantiques à budgéter :

• Sunset catamaran cruise (meal included): €130–200/person
• Gourmet dinner with a view (Lycabettus, Ambrosia): €60–100/person
• Wine tasting at Santo Wines or Venetsanos: €15–30/person

Couple's budget tip: share a scooter or quad (€25–50/day for two) rather than taking taxis (€20–30 per ride). Rent accommodation with a kitchen so you can alternate between restaurants and home-cooked meals.

As a couple, a budget of €120 to €200 per day on the island (excluding flights) will give you a comfortable and memorable stay.

04What budget for a family holiday in Santorini?

For a family of 4, the budget ranges from €2,424 (weekend) to €8,232 (two weeks), flights included (see the summary table). A few strategic choices help keep the bill under control.

Child-friendly beaches: Perissa and Kamari (black sand, calm waters, sunbeds) are the most suitable. Red Beach is spectacular but best avoided with little ones: it is closed to the public because of rockfalls.

Family activities: alternate paid and free. The Fira–Oia hike is doable with children aged 8+. A visit to Akrotiri (€20, free for EU citizens under 25) fascinates children.

Transport: car rental (€40–80/day) is almost essential with children. Book via DiscoverCars to compare.

Meals: with a kitchen, plan on home-made breakfasts and dinners. Supermarkets are well stocked. Lunches in tavernas: children often eat for €5–8 (pasta, chips, souvlaki).

Realistic family budget on the island (excluding flights): €180 to €280 per day for 4 people.

05What budget to plan depending on the type of accommodation in Santorini?

The cost of your stay and your budget in Santorini will also depend on the level of comfort you're looking for. Here's an overview of average prices per night by hotel category:

• 1 star: between €47 and €57
• 2 stars: between €69 and €114
• 3 stars: between €85 and €155
• 4 stars: €236 on average
• 5 stars: €296 on average
• Unrated: €382 on average

So you can find accommodation for every budget in Santorini, from the simplest youth hostels to the most extraordinary luxury villas.

06Detailed prices of activities in Santorini

For activities, see our guide on things to do in Santorini. The catamaran cruise is the most memorable activity on the island.

Santorini, jewel of the Cyclades, captivates travellers from all over the world with its breathtaking landscapes, immaculate villages and magical sunsets. But this little Greek paradise also has a reputation for being an expensive destination, especially in high season.

Yet, as we've seen in this article, it's entirely possible to treat yourself to an unforgettable holiday in Santorini without emptying your bank account. By wisely choosing when to go, where to stay, what to do and how to get around, you can slash the bill without cutting back on quality.

The key is to plan your trip well in advance, comparing offers and booking early. Once there, just let yourself be carried along by the gentle island way of life, favouring authentic experiences with the locals. Because Santorini's true wealth lies in its warm-hearted people, its preserved traditions and its natural wonders, unique in the world.

07Meal prices in Santorini: concrete examples

Local specialities to try: tomatokeftedes (tomato fritters), fava (split pea purée), melitzanosalata (aubergine dip) and Assyrtiko wines.

Tipping and payment methods

• Tipping: 5–10% in restaurants. Not compulsory but much appreciated. Round up to the nearest euro in cafés
• Bank cards: accepted almost everywhere, but keep some cash for small shops and taxis
• Bank fees: to avoid currency conversion fees, use a Wise card (real exchange rate, no commission)

08How to save money on your Santorini budget

Here are a few tips for saving money during your stay in Santorini without cutting back on the quality of your holiday:

1. 01Choose your accommodation carefully: Opt for B&Bs, apartments or small family-run hotels rather than large tourist resorts. Not only will you save money, you'll also have a more authentic experience. Remember to book early to get the best rates.
2. 02Cook some meals yourself: Restaurants in Santorini can be quite expensive, especially those overlooking the caldera. By renting accommodation with a kitchen, you can prepare a few simple meals yourself using local produce (tomatoes, feta, olives…). Your taste buds and your wallet will thank you!
3. 03Favour free or low-cost activities: Santorini is packed with natural wonders to discover for free. Go hiking on the volcanic trails, wander the flower-filled lanes of the traditional villages, picnic on the black or red sand beaches… No need to spend a lot to be amazed!
4. 04Use public transport: The local buses (see next section) are an economical and practical way to get around the island. They serve the main tourist sites and villages. If you rent a car, scooter or quad, negotiate the rates carefully and remember to fill up the tank yourself.
5. 05Avoid tourist traps: Skip the flashy souvenir shops in favour of small craft stalls selling local products (jewellery, pottery, textiles…). You'll find unique gifts at gentler prices. For your souvenir photos, choose local photographers over the big chains.
6. 06Pay in cash rather than by bank card where possible, or you may be charged costly transaction fees. So bring enough cash, while taking the usual precautions.

With these few clever tips, you can easily reduce your holiday budget without sacrificing the quality of your stay. The key is to travel responsibly, supporting local businesses and authentic experiences.

09How to get to Santorini and at what price

Direct flights from France

Several airlines offer direct Paris–Santorini flights in season (April to October): Transavia, easyJet, Volotea and Aegean. Flight time: approximately 3h20. The rest of the year, you need a stopover in Athens.

Vol + ferry via Athens

An often cheaper option: fly to Athens (from €50 return) and then take the ferry from Piraeus. Blue Star Ferries (conventional, ~8h, from €46.50) or SeaJets (fast, ~5h, from around €90). Book on Ferryhopper.com.

10Budget for getting around Santorini

Once there, you'll need to get around to discover all of Santorini's charms. Here's an overview of the different options available to you, with estimated costs:

1. 01Local buses: This is the cheapest way to travel around the island. The modern, air-conditioned buses link Santorini's main towns and villages (Fira, Oia, Perissa…). A single ticket costs €2.20 to €2.80 depending on the destination (2026 KTEL fares), and the company's fare table does not include a day pass. Be warned, they can be packed in high season.
2. 02Car rental: Renting a small car will give you great freedom of movement to explore the island at your own pace. Allow approximately €40 to €50 per day for a city car, insurance and fuel included. Remember to book early and compare rates between rental companies. Be warned, the roads are steep and winding.
3. 03Scooter or quad rental: €40 to €50 for a quad. Be careful, wear a helmet and follow the rules of the road.
4. 04Taxis: Taxis are quite expensive in Santorini, but can be handy for reaching certain less well-served spots. Allow approximately €20 to €30 for an average ride (e.g. Fira to Oia), and €35 to €45 to get to the airport. Remember to agree the price before getting in, and ask for a receipt.
5. 05On foot: Finally, don't forget walking! Santorini lends itself beautifully to strolls, with coastal paths offering breathtaking panoramas. It's free, good for your health and ideal for soaking up the island's unique atmosphere. Bring good shoes and water.

11Best times to save money

Travelling to Santorini in high season (July–August) certainly has its advantages (glorious weather, buzzing atmosphere…), but it's also the most expensive and crowded time. To save money and enjoy a calmer stay, it's better to opt for the low or shoulder season months:

1. 01April–May and October–November (low season): This is the ideal time to benefit from attractive prices on flights and accommodation (up to 50% less than in summer!). The weather is still mild (20–25°C), with landscapes in bloom in spring or ablaze with colour in autumn. It's also quieter, with fewer people at the sites. Some restaurants or attractions may be closed, however.
2. 02June and September (shoulder season): Prices go up a little but remain more affordable than in high summer. The weather is generally lovely (25–30°C), with the sea at a pleasant temperature. It's a good compromise for enjoying Santorini to the full without breaking the bank, with most services open. Still, remember to book early.

By choosing to travel outside the summer season, you can greatly reduce your budget while enjoying more than favourable conditions. Goodbye crowds and crushing heat, hello to the gentle pace of life and more authentic experiences with the locals. You'll appreciate Santorini's blazing sunsets and peaceful lanes all the more!

12Going further

Find all our Santorini guides to plan your trip: things to do in Santorini, the most beautiful beaches, the best hikes, sunset in Oia, the villages of Santorini and Santorini in October.

For transport: car rental, quad rental and motorbike/scooter rental.

13Conclusion – Budget for a trip to Santorini

Santorini isn't a cheap destination, but it isn't reserved for big budgets either. With a little planning, you can enjoy this extraordinary island without breaking the bank: book early, eat in the villages rather than in Oia, rent a quad rather than a car, and travel in May or October.

The expense that really makes the difference is accommodation. A studio in Perissa at €60/night will leave you the budget for a sunset cruise. A suite in Oia at €400/night, much less so. It's up to you to decide what matters most.

To plan your stay, find all our guides: things to do in Santorini, the most beautiful beaches, car rental and our complete Santorini guide. Bon voyage!

14FAQ: budget for a trip to Santorini