Santorini Accommodation and Travel in Greece: what actually matters to know
Short answer
Avoid traveling to Santorini with an infant during late August due to extreme heat and crowds, preferring quieter locations like Crete or staying in less tourist-heavy areas such as Imerovigli, Karterados, or Kamari. To manage crowds, visit major hubs like Fira and Oia before 11:00 AM or late at night, and ensure you book ferry tickets in advance.
From real experience
Traveling to Santorini with an infant, especially in late August, is not recommended due to intense heat, large crowds, and the logistical challenges of travel.
Consider quieter, rural locations on islands like Crete for a more suitable family vacation. If visiting Santorini, opt for accommodation in less crowded areas like Carterados or Pirgos, away from the main tourist hubs of Fira and Oia.
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For ferry travel between Greek islands like Crete and Santorini, especially during peak season (early September), it is advisable to book tickets in advance through platforms like ferries.gr.
When choosing accommodation on Santorini, both Fira and Oia offer beautiful views; Oia is described as cozier but can be crowded. For ferry tariffs, baggage is often handled within the cabin for shorter routes.
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Recommended itinerary balance: 3-4 days in Milos for beach exploration (e.g., Sarakiniko) and 2-3 days in Santorini.
For Santorini, Imerovigli offers a better balance of cost and caldera views compared to Oia. To avoid peak tourist crowds ('cruise ship effect'), visit main hubs like Fira and Oia early in the morning (pre-11:00 AM) or late at night.
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For accommodation in Santorini, consider areas like Kamari or Perissa for budget-friendly options.
In Karterados, 'Sweet Home Karterados' is recommended for its cleanliness, proximity to bus stops, and reasonable prices. It's a 15-20 minute walk to Fira, with a supermarket and bakery nearby offering affordable snacks. The accommodation is managed by a host named Poppy.