What to Pack for Santorini: Travel Essentials, Clothing & Tips
April 17, 2025
What to Pack for a Santorini Escape
If you’re in search of blue, idyllic waters framed by 360-degree cliffside vistas, Santorini might just be your perfect Greek island escape. Greece is home to over 200 islands, each with its own unique character — some bustling with ancient ruins, others alive with local markets and sleepy fishing villages.
Santorini, though, is a little different. It’s made for those who want to soak up the sun by infinity pools, sip crisp local wines, dive into Mediterranean waters, and take in views so beautiful they hardly seem real. And with those flight confirmations in your inbox, the next question naturally is — what should you pack?
Dress for the Mediterranean Sun
Santorini’s climate is classic Mediterranean — long, warm days and cool, breezy evenings, especially from late spring to early fall. Pack lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen to stay cool and comfortable while wandering the whitewashed alleyways of Fira and Oia.
Bring a couple of flowy dresses, linen shirts, and relaxed shorts,
perfect for both daytime exploring and sunset dinners. Swimwear
is a must — in fact, bring at least two, because chances are you’ll be poolside, beachside, or on a boat most days.
Footwear That Can Keep Up
Leave the heels at home. Santorini is famous for its cobblestone streets, steep staircases, and volcanic sand beaches. Comfortable walking sandals, sturdy-soled sneakers, or stylish flats are the way to go.
For beach days, a pair of flip-flops or waterproof sandals
will protect your feet from hot sand and rocky shores like those at Perissa or Kamari.
For the Beach and Beyond
If you’re planning boat trips or beach days (which you absolutely should), a quick-dry towel, foldable beach bag, and reusable water bottle
will come in handy. Many of Santorini’s beaches are rocky, so water shoes
can make getting in and out of the sea a lot more comfortable.
Adventurers might also want to bring snorkeling gear
for crystal-clear spots around the caldera and volcanic hot springs. While you can rent gear locally, bringing your own ensures it’s comfortable and ready when you are.
And don’t forget a waterproof phone pouch
— perfect for boat trips and capturing those iconic caldera views without worrying about splashes.
Capture the Magic
Santorini is a photographer’s paradise, from its famous sunsets in Oia to the dramatic cliffs of Imerovigli and quiet fishing harbors like Ammoudi Bay. Bring a good camera, drone
or your phone will also do the job for all those picture-perfect moments.
A portable charger
is a travel essential here — long days out exploring mean your phone (and camera) battery will need backup. And if you’re traveling from outside Europe, don’t forget a universal adapter
(plug type C & F) to keep everything charged.
Sun-Savvy Essentials
- The Mediterranean sun is no joke — you’ll want to pack:
- High-SPF, reef-safe sunscreen
- After-sun lotion or aloe vera
- A wide-brimmed hat and oversized sunglasses
Not only are these essential for your comfort, but products like sunscreen can be more expensive on the island.
Evening Layers & Smart Casual Vibes
While the days can be toasty, evenings often bring a welcome breeze, especially in spring and fall. A light jacket, wrap, or shawl
is perfect for dinners under the stars or sunset cocktails.
Santorini’s nightlife is elegant yet laid-back. Think smart casual — linen pants, maxi dresses, or chic separates that feel good after a day in the sun.
Health, Comfort & Practical Extras
Don’t forget:
- Any personal medications (prescriptions can be tricky to fill locally)
- Seasickness remedies if you’re planning on taking boat trips
- Travel-sized toiletries, as prices for basics can be a little steeper on the island
Final Thoughts
Santorini is a place where simplicity meets unforgettable beauty. The secret is packing light, choosing quality over quantity, and leaving plenty of space in your bag for local finds — maybe a bottle of Assyrtiko wine, handmade jewelry, or those perfect Greek linen pieces you’ll wear forever.
When you stay with us at Divino Santorini, our team is here to help with everything from beach recommendations to booking boat trips and capturing those perfect Instagrammable moments.
We’ll see you under the Santorini sun.
Heading to Gili Air? Discover what to pack for your island adventure — from swimwear to snorkel gear, wellness essentials, and travel tips for a smooth tropical getaway.
Torn between Gili Air and Santorini? Compare these two island paradises — from barefoot tropical vibes to romantic cliffside views — and find your perfect escape with Divino.