what to pack for Santorini

23 Top Santorini Packing List Items for 2025 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

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If you’re in search of blue, idyllic waters with 360-degree cliff-side vistas, Santorini could be your perfect island. Greece is home to over 200 islands with each offering its own unique personality. While other islands may be more inclined to showcase rich, historical sites, Santorini is suited more for those who just want to lounge poolside (or beachside) while eating a fresh gyro and taking in incredible views.

Because of Santorini’s famous sunsets and amazing coastline, it’s no surprise that the island can get quite busy during peak times. Do yourself a favor and book a hotel with a pool, or even a private hot tub if you’re seeking some R&R. We’ve also provided an essential packing list of our top picks to bring with you as well as what to wear when visiting Santorini.

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What to Pack for Santorini – 23 Essentials

  • 1. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

    travel towel

    This towel is compact and quick-drying for your every travel need. It is super helpful to have for just about any getaway, especially an island escape like Santorini. Take this down to one of Santorini’s beaches, use it to lounge on and dry off after a dip in the water, then pack it up as soon as you need because it’ll already be dry. Plus, it takes up barely any space in your suitcase!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 2. Waterproof Phone Pouch

    Waterproof Phone Pouch

    Santorini is an island, and you’ll likely be doing some sort of water activity during your stay, like exploring the Aegean Sea by catamaran, relaxing in volcanic hot springs, or simply lounging by the sea or pool. However you decide to enjoy Santorini, don’t let the water destroy your phone – keep it protected with a waterproof pouch like this one. And for added safety measures, be sure to attach it to a flotation strap to keep your phone from sinking to the ocean’s depths in case you drop it. Not even a waterproof phone case will help you then!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    Ever since we had our credit card information stolen while connected to our Airbnb’s wifi in Paris, we don’t take any chances with cybersecurity. We use NordVPN to make sure not only our credit card information, but also passwords, social security numbers, and any sensitive information doesn’t get lifted off our devices by hackers when we’re connected to public networks.

    In addition to online security, a VPN is convenient to have because it allows you to change your virtual location to anywhere in the world. This is great if you want to continue a series on Netflix that isn’t available in Greece or for finding better deals on flights and hotels by simply changing your VPN’s country location. It’s a priceless travel hack!

    View options at NordVPN.com

  • 4. Natural Jet Lag Relief

    jet lag relief

    Getting to Santorini from the US can easily be a day-long endeavor (if not more!). We rely on this homeopathic jet relief for long trips like this one. They noticeably reduce the symptoms of jet lag that leave you wanting to lay in bed the first couple of days when you should really be out exploring Santorini. They help travel feel much less exhausting and ease the transition into a new time zone.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 5. Neck Wallet

    neck wallet

    Santorini’s small streets can get pretty packed when all of the tourists from the cruise ships are on land during the day. I would trust this neck wallet to hide my passport, cash, or credit cards when walking around a busy area. It simply slips around your neck and under your shirt so that your valuables are hidden and out of reach of others.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 6. Travel Insurance for Santorini

    Travel Insurance for Santorini

    We had a friend who once needed to be airlifted after a hiking accident while on vacation. The medical evacuation alone was tens of thousands of dollars, and then there were the hospital bills to follow. Luckily, he was an experienced traveler with travel insurance that covered the entire unfortunate accident. Take a page out of his book and get travel insurance for your trip. An island destination like Santorini is more remote than you’d think, so it’s best to be prepared.

    We use Faye Travel Insurance because they will cover emergency expenses like medical bills, lost or stolen luggage, and theft without the hassle of most other insurance companies. Their mobile app makes the claims process and getting reimbursed headache-free. We’ve tried numerous travel insurance companies over the years, and Faye is by far the best because they make it easy to get reimbursed fast without the confusing paperwork.

    Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye

  • 7. Universal Power Adapter

    Adapter Plug Ports

    Greece runs on a 230V supply voltage, as does most of Europe. If you’re coming from the U. S., you’ll want a travel adapter like this one. It’s super compact, yet it’s able to accommodate a variety of different outlet types, no matter where in the world you are traveling to.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 8. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

    Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

    This portable charger is literally the size of a tube of lipstick. It is so easy to slip into a day bag, a small purse, or even your pocket. Whenever I’m in a new country, I use my phone for lots of things – directions, food reviews, online tickets, etc. If I need a quick charge to keep my phone going as long as I am, this one does the job effortlessly.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 9. Packing Cubes

    Packing Cubes

    These packing cubes are a game changer when it comes to living out of your suitcase – whether it’s for a few days or a few months! The amount of organization they provide is second to none, and I can proudly say that I no longer have to rummage through a messy pile of clothes in my luggage to find that one item I desperately need. Take it from me – don’t travel without these!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 10. Day Pack

    Day Pack

    Santorini has a few good hiking trails that you’ll want to explore, as well as many streets to stroll throughout the small towns. Having a day pack allows you to pack some water, snacks, a light jacket, and a portable charger for the day. You’ll even have some extra space just in case you find a souvenir or two.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 11. Cooling Towel

    cooling towel

    In the summer, Santorini can get really hot. This special cooling towel is woven with premium microfiber to provide you with an instant cooling effect for up to 60 minutes after it is dunked in water. Whether you’re out hiking, sailing, or just sightseeing, this is a great item to have in your backpack.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 12. Motion Sickness Patches

    Motion Sickness Patches

    For the ferry ride to Santorini and the catamaran sailing tour you don’t want to miss out on, motion sickness patches are key. They’re all natural and don’t have any drowsy side effects like common motion sickness drugs. Just stick one or two behind your ear or around your navel. Sometimes I even double or triple-up if the conditions are particularly rough. These work better than any others I’ve tried and do the trick every time!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 13. Filtered Water Bottle

    Filtered Water Bottle

    It's not recommended to drink the tap water in Santorini, so a reliable water filter like this one is necessary. It has a built-in filter that removes harmful bacteria, viruses, heavy metals, and even microplastics. Use this bottle with its built-in filter to ensure clean drinking water while saving money by forgoing single-use plastic bottles!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 14. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

    TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

    If you’re taking a ferry to Santorini, did you know you have to leave your luggage below where anyone from crew members to other passengers can easily access your bags? It’s best to secure your suitcases with luggage locks to keep anyone getting into your bags while they’re out of your sight. These locks are also great for flying as they’re TSA-approved, plus they work perfectly with lockers in hostels or museums.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 15. Swimsuit Cover-up

    Swimwear

    Most restaurants or hotels won’t let you in wearing just a swimsuit so a cover-up is a must. Between the beach, the pool, and maybe even your own private hot tub, you’ll be spending lots of time in your bikini. A swimsuit cover-up like this one is easy to throw on when it’s time to go inside and makes the transition from lounging poolside to eating tableside at a restaurant seamless.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 16. Hanging Toiletry Bag

    Hanging Toiletry Bag

    I really like having one of these to easily display my skincare, brushes, hair ties, and whatever else I have packed. It eliminates the need to dig through a bag in search of one particular item. Hang it up anywhere, and you’ll have instant access to all of your toiletries.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 17. Windbreaker Jacket

    Windbreaker Jacket

    You’ll likely experience everything from a cooling breeze to some pretty intense gusts of wind while in Santorini. You may not need this jacket for the summer months, but starting even in the shoulder months, the wind can get a bit chilly! Especially once the sun goes down and the temperatures drop, you may wish you had a packable windbreaker.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 18. First-Aid Kit

    First-Aid Kit

    It’s always a good idea to pack a small first aid kit when traveling. You might need something as simple as a band-aid for a blister, or some gauze for a more unfortunate cut. Especially if you know you’ll be doing active things, I would recommend a small kit like this one.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 19. Supportive Sandals

    Sandal

    If temps rise and wearing athletic shoes is out of the question, pull out a pair of supportive sandals like these ones. Their rigid base creates a ton of support while you’re walking, and your feet won’t overheat.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 20. Packable ‘Just in Case” Bag

    Packable ‘Just in Case” Bag

    When I went to Greece, I wanted to take everything home with me, like the Greek honey, “evil eye” souvenirs, and ouzo, just to name a few! I wouldn’t have had enough room in my luggage to bring everything I came to Santorini with, plus all of the extra goodies I bought if it weren’t for this “just in case” bag. I keep it packed away in my main luggage until the flight home, where it counts as my personal item bag and fits so much stuff! I don’t have to pay for an extra bag and I get to bring back plenty of souvenirs – win-win!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 21. Athletic Shoes

    Athletic Shoes

    The cobblestone is abundant throughout Santorini’s towns, so you’ll want some good, sturdy walking shoes. There’s also a famous trail that connects Thira to Oia, and if you’re keen to conquer that, bring a good pair of athletic shoes like these ones.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 22. Gorgeous Outfit

    Women's Summer Dressy One Shoulder Sleeveless

    You have to have an elegant outfit for Santorini sunsets and dinner to follow! My wife owns this dress in a couple of colors because she loves how versatile and flattering it is. It looks good on different body types, and she says it’s extremely comfortable. Another bonus – the material doesn’t easily wrinkle making it perfect for travel.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 23. Sunscreen

    Sunscreen

    If you’re going to a warm and sunny destination, it goes without saying that you should pack some sunscreen. I like this brand because it is non-greasy and free from chemicals that are known to be harmful to your health as well as marine life. Plus, it smells amazing!

    View on Amazon.com

What to Wear in Santorini

What to Wear in SantoriniSantorini is very much an idyllic, island getaway. Your primary activities will be strolling through the small streets, lounging by the pool or beach, and sipping wine in front of an amazing sunset. There are a few hiking trails around the island, so you do have that option as well.

My main suggestions on what to wear for Santorini include more casual outfits that are meant for warmer weather. It’s always a good idea to bring a few athletic pieces and some solid walking shoes as well.

What Should WOMEN Wear in Santorini? – (Click to expand)

Below is a sample women’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Sandal
Legging
Jeans
Casual T-shirt
Blouse
Denim jacket
Hiking shoes
Sweatpants
Sunglasses
Swimsuit
Bathing suit cover up
Maxi dress
Light cardigan
Shorts
Sun Hats

In this sunny destination, women will want free-flowing dresses, blouses, and cardigans. I would also pack some practical things like a pair of jeans, some leggings, and sandals for the beach. Don’t forget a good pair of walking or hiking shoes for when you’re meandering around town or out on a cliff-side hike.

What Should MEN Wear in Santorini? – (Click to expand)

Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Sandals
Shorts
Jeans
T-shirt
Button-down shirt
Hoodie
Hiking shoes
Athletic pants
Sunglasses
Swim trunks
Linen shirt
Denim jacket
Khakis
Tank top
Baseball cap
Shirts

Similarly to women’s clothing, guys will want lighter options like a tank, a linen shirt, and some shorts. Still bring along a pair of jeans, a denim jacket, some good walking shoes, and a hoodie for those cooler, breezier nights.

Packing for the Seasons in Santorini

  • SPRING — March, April, May

    SPRING

    Spring on the island is very pleasant. March will have cooler temperatures, but nothing crazy! You’ll definitely want a warm cardigan and a pair of jeans, but don’t count out bringing a pair of shorts as you get into late Spring. The island will be starting to fill up, but it won’t be at max capacity. Spring is a great time to visit!

    You’ll see temperatures around the high 50 degrees Fahrenheit in March, but those will rapidly increase to the 70s by the time May rolls around.

  • SUMMER — June, July, August

    Summertime is peak season in Santorini because of the beautiful weather, but that means you’ll also encounter more crowds. You’ll want to be spending most of your time lounging by the pool or down at the beach. Bring your swimsuit, a nice cover-up, and a sun hat.

    Santorini’s highest temperatures are during these months. Expect mid 80’s Fahrenheit with an occasional heatwave to pass through and bring temps to the 90s.

  • FALL — September, October, November

    FALL

    September still has very warm weather, and October can be pleasant enough to keep swimming in the sea or pool. For most businesses, October is the last fully operational month. By November, temperatures start to drop, so if you’re visiting during this time, you can still pack your swimsuit and some shorts, but I would also pack a few warmer items like a windbreaker or denim jacket.

    September and October can still have days with temps in the 70s, but November will see the 60s and maybe even the 50s.

  • WINTER — December, January, February

    Winter is low season in Santorini with most hotels, restaurants, and other businesses closed. This just really isn’t an ideal season to visit Santorini, and I wouldn’t recommend it. If you are here, you won’t be swimming in the pool or sea. Stick to warmer items like jeans, hoodies, or your windbreaker.

    Temperatures throughout winter will be in the 50s and sometimes into the 40s at night.

Dressing Appropriately for the Activity – (Click to expand)

Beach day: Don’t expect all of Santorini’s beaches to be sandy. You may encounter more rugged, stone beaches as well. For that reason, I would bring some sturdy sandals to get you there. Pack your day pack full of sunscreen, lip balm, water, a quick-dry towel, and a portable charger. Wearing some denim shorts and a t-shirt down to the beach will suffice, but you may just want your cover-up for the trek home.

Dinner out: Santorini allows for the options of getting dressed up for a fancy dinner out, or dining in a more casual, comfortable way. If you’d like to make reservations at one of the island’s fancier restaurants, I’d recommend a nice dress with a cardigan just in case the wind picks up. If you’re looking for something more casual, a pair of linen pants with a nice blouse will work perfectly.

Walking the Fira to Oia trail: Walking this trail along the rim of Santorini’s famous caldera is one of the most scenic things to do while staying on the island. The trail is around 6 miles long and has a mix of dirt roads, paved pedestrian walkways, and some rocky/gravel trails. You’ll want your sturdy hiking shoes, some athletic pants or shorts, and your day pack to bring water, snacks, and whatever else you might want for the day.

What NOT to Bring to Santorini

  • 1. DON’T Bring Non-Supportive Shoes

    The amount of cobblestone, uneven steps, and rocks by the beach that you’ll encounter will leave you wanting only the best supportive shoes or sandals. I would forgo any flats or flimsy flip-flops for this trip.

  • 2. DON’T Bring Large, Rolling Suitcases

    Most taxis won’t be able to drop you off close to your hotel. You’ll be dragging suitcases up and down steep steps, over uneven stones. A small carry-on suitcase or a backpack would be ideal.

  • 3. DON’T Bring a Hairdryer

    Almost all accommodations nowadays have hairdryers in the room for you. I once brought a hairdryer and blew the fuse in our room!

  • 4. DON’T Bring High Heels

    You may be able to get by with some wedges that have a wider base, but high heels on the island of Santorini would be a bit of a challenge. Again, you’ll be navigating lots of cracks, steps, and uneven cobblestone.

  • 5. DON’T Bring Winter Jackets

    Even in the dead of winter, you likely wouldn’t need a serious winter jacket. I also wouldn’t recommend traveling to Santorini during winter as most hotels and restaurants will be closed.

  • 6. DON’T Bring Rain Boots

    The island doesn’t get a ton of rain, and certainly not enough to warrant needing rain boots! When most tourists travel to Santorini, the weather is warm and sunny.

What NOT to Wear in Santorini – (Click to expand)

You absolutely do not need to bring gloves, boots, a warm hat, or any sort of wool base layers. Even if you decided to come during winter, you may only experience temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

FAQs about Visiting Santorini

  • 1. Does Santorini have its own airport?

    Yes, Santorini Airport (JTR). It is located just 15-20 minutes outside of Thira, which is one of the more popular towns on the island.

  • 2. Is Santorini expensive?

    Is Santorini expensive?

    Because it is an island destination, Santorini is more expensive than other places in Europe. It is also a bit more expensive than if you were having the same meal or buying a similar item in Athens.

    Greece is usually more inexpensive than other countries in Europe, but since Santorini is so popular with tourists, the prices reflect that.

  • 3. Do people speak English there?

    Though the official language is Greek, most people you find on the island will speak English well.

  • 4. Where should I stay in Santorini for the first time?

    Where should I stay in Santorini for the first time?

    I personally prefer staying in Thira for its restaurants and bars, but it can get busy. Another great place to stay would be in Oia which is known for the best sunset shots. It all just depends on what’s important to you.

    Some people like to be within walking distance to all of the action while others prefer being in an all-inclusive resort where they don’t have to leave.

  • 5. What is the best time to visit?

    Between May and October is the best time to visit when the weather is warm and all restaurants and hotels are operating. I would avoid going during the winter.

  • 6. What’s the best way to get around Santorini?

    What’s the best way to get around Santorini?

    There are buses departing regularly to all towns on the island.
    Walking is also a great way to get around and see the city. Taxis are another option if you’d rather take a more direct approach to get from point A to B.

  • 7. Is Santorini safe?

    Yes, Santorini is very safe. Just watch out for pickpocketing in really busy areas, which can be, unfortunately, quite common in most packed European cities.

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