Is Santorini Safe? Proactive Measures Keep Tourists Secure

Ah, Santorini. The mere mention of this Greek island paradise conjures images of white-washed buildings, blue-domed churches, and stunning sunsets. But let's be real - if you're anything like my wife Sarah and me, your first thought might be, "Is it safe, though?"

I get it. Our parents nearly had a conniption when we told them we were heading to a volcanic island in the middle of the Aegean Sea. "What about earthquakes?" they fretted. Meanwhile, our more adventurous friends rolled their eyes and insisted we were being overly cautious. "It's basically a postcard come to life," they said. "Stop worrying!"

So, which is it? Is Santorini a serene sanctuary or a tourist trap tinderbox?

As a recently married couple in our mid-40s (though I prefer to think of myself as perpetually 35), Sarah and I decided to put our remote work flexibility to good use and spend two weeks on this famed Greek island. Our mission? To uncover the truth about Santorini's safety, one cliff-side village and black sand beach at a time.

I'm going to share two crucial things with you: 1) how we determined if Santorini felt safe for us before we even set foot on the island, and 2) our honest, unfiltered experiences during our sun-soaked (and occasionally windswept) fortnight in paradise.

Buckle up, fellow safety-conscious travelers. We're about to embark on a journey through Santorini's volcanic landscapes, narrow streets, and yes, even its crime statistics. Don't worry - I promise it'll be more fun than it sounds.

3 Safety Factors to Consider

Before we packed our sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes, we did some serious homework. Here are the three key factors we looked at to gauge Santorini's safety:

01 - State Department Travel Advisory

First things first - what does good ol' Uncle Sam have to say about visiting Santorini?

If you're not familiar with the U.S. Department of State's travel advisory system, here's a quick rundown:

• Level 1: Exercise normal precautions (white)
• Level 2: Exercise increased caution (yellow)
• Level 3: Reconsider travel (orange)
• Level 4: Do not travel (red)

Sarah and I have a personal rule: we only visit places with a Level 1 or 2 rating. Call us cautious, but we like our vacations without a side of extreme danger, thank you very much.

So, where does Santorini fall on this scale? Drumroll, please...

According to the U.S. Department of State, Greece (including Santorini) is currently at Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions. That's the lowest level of caution, folks!

But here's where it gets interesting. While Greece as a whole is Level 1, the advisory does mention a few areas of concern:

• Exercise increased caution in urban areas due to the possibility of civil unrest.
• Be aware of the possibility of terrorist attacks in tourist locations.

Now, before you start canceling your reservations, remember that these warnings apply to the entire country. Santorini, being a small island focused primarily on tourism, generally doesn't see the kind of civil unrest you might encounter in larger cities like Athens.

As for terrorism, it's sadly a concern in many parts of the world these days. The key is to stay vigilant but not paranoid. We'll talk more about specific precautions later.

State Department Check: PASS

02 - Latest News

Next up on our safety checklist: what's been happening in Santorini lately?

I'll be honest - when I first started researching, I half expected to find news about volcanic eruptions or tourists falling off cliffs (blame it on too many disaster movies). Instead, what I found was... surprisingly mundane.

One of the most significant recent developments was the implementation of controlled access measures to mitigate landslide risks. These measures, in effect until October 31, 2024, include vehicle restrictions in Ammoudi, controlled disembarkation in Fira Bay, and prioritized unloading in Athinios Port.

At first, I was a bit concerned. Landslide risks? That sounds scary! But as I dug deeper, I realized these measures are actually a positive sign. They show that local authorities are proactive about safety, especially in managing the impact of tourism on the island's unique geography.

Speaking of tourism, Santorini has seen a significant surge in visitor numbers. The island experienced a 13.3% increase in passenger traffic during the first four months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. While this is great news for the local economy, it does mean potentially larger crowds at popular sites.

On the crime front, the most notable recent incident was the arrest of an international fugitive at Santorini Airport. A 47-year-old foreign national wanted for money laundering was apprehended, highlighting the island's cooperation with international law enforcement.

Lastly, it's worth noting that Greece, like many Mediterranean countries, has been dealing with an increase in extreme weather events. In 2023, wildfires burned more than 1,700 km² across the country. While Santorini wasn't directly affected, it's a reminder to stay informed about weather conditions and any potential natural hazards.

Current News Check: PASS (with a side of caution)

03 - Community Forums

Last but not least, we turned to the most honest (and sometimes brutally so) source of travel information: fellow travelers.

I spent hours combing through TripAdvisor forums, Reddit threads, and travel blogs to get a sense of what real people were saying about safety in Santorini. Here's the general consensus:

1. Most travelers felt very safe in Santorini, both during the day and at night.
2. Petty theft can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas, but violent crime is rare.
3. The biggest safety concerns were related to the island's geography: steep stairs, narrow roads, and potential for sunburn or dehydration.
4. Many visitors praised the friendliness of locals and their willingness to help tourists.

One TripAdvisor user, Sarah (no relation to my wife), wrote: "I felt incredibly safe walking around Oia at night. The streets were well-lit and there were always other tourists and locals out enjoying the evening."

On Reddit, a user shared their experience with renting an ATV: "It was a great way to explore the island, but the winding roads can be tricky. I'd recommend extra caution, especially if you're not used to driving on the right side."

These firsthand accounts were reassuring, but they also highlighted the importance of being aware of your surroundings and taking basic precautions.

Community Forum Check: PASS

First Hand Experience in Santorini

Alright, now for the juicy part. We've done our research, packed our bags, and landed on this stunning volcanic island. Did our experience match up with all that homework we did? Let's break it down by neighborhood.

Fira (Thira)

Fira, the bustling capital of Santorini, was our first stop. This cliff-top town is known for its stunning views, lively nightlife, and being the main transport hub of the island.

Walking around Fira during the day was a delight. The narrow, winding streets were filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Yes, it was crowded, especially when cruise ships were in port, but we never felt unsafe. Just keep a close eye on your belongings in these busy areas.

At night, Fira transforms into the island's nightlife capital. We enjoyed a couple of evenings out, sipping cocktails at PK Cocktail Bar while watching the sunset. The atmosphere was lively but not rowdy. We walked back to our hotel around midnight and felt perfectly safe, though we did stick to well-lit main streets.

One thing to watch out for in Fira: the stairs. Oh boy, the stairs. They're steep, often uneven, and can be slippery. I nearly took a tumble while distracted by the view (pro tip: stop walking when you want to take photos).

Some of our favorite spots in Fira:

1. PK Cocktail Bar - Great drinks and even better views
2. Argo Restaurant - Delicious Greek cuisine
3. Museum of Prehistoric Thira - Fascinating artifacts from ancient Akrotiri

Is Fira Safe? YES, but mind your step and your belongings in crowded areas.

Oia

Ah, Oia. The poster child of Santorini, famous for its blue-domed churches and stunning sunsets. It's also where we spent most of our time, having booked a lovely villa with a view that made us feel like we were living in a postcard.

During the day, Oia was busy but manageable. We spent hours wandering the charming streets, popping into art galleries and boutiques. The locals were friendly and always ready to offer directions or recommendations.

But let me tell you about sunset time in Oia. It's like someone flipped a switch, and suddenly the streets were packed with people jostling for the best viewing spots. While it wasn't unsafe per se, it was definitely overwhelming. Sarah almost lost her hat to a particularly enthusiastic selfie-taker.

Our tip? Watch the sunset from a less crowded spot, like the Byzantine Castle Ruins. It's a bit of a walk, but worth it for the relative peace and equally stunning views.

Night time in Oia was surprisingly tranquil. After the sunset crowds dispersed, the streets became quiet and romantic. We felt completely safe walking back to our villa late at night.

Oia highlights:

1. Atlantis Books - A charming bookstore that's a book lover's dream
2. Roka - Delicious traditional Greek food
3. Oia Castle - Best sunset views without the extreme crowds

Is Oia Safe? YES, but brace yourself for sunset madness.

Imerovigli

Known as the "balcony to the Aegean," Imerovigli offered us a quieter, more laid-back experience compared to Fira and Oia. It's perched on the highest point of the caldera cliffs, providing breathtaking panoramic views.

We spent a day hiking from Fira to Imerovigli, and I have to say, it was one of the highlights of our trip. The path was well-maintained and offered stunning views the entire way. However, there were a few spots where the trail got quite narrow with a steep drop-off to one side. If you're afraid of heights, this might not be for you.

In terms of safety, Imerovigli felt very secure. It's a smaller, more residential area, so there were fewer tourists and a more relaxed vibe. We had dinner at La Maison, a lovely restaurant with an incredible view, and felt perfectly comfortable walking back to our hotel afterward.

One thing to note: Imerovigli is very quiet at night. While this is great for peace and relaxation, it means fewer people around if you do need help. We made sure to have our hotel's number saved in our phones, just in case.

Imerovigli must-dos:

1. Hike the caldera path from Fira
2. Dinner at La Maison
3. Visit Skaros Rock for incredible views

Is Imerovigli Safe? YES, but be cautious on hiking trails.

Kamari and Perissa (Beach Towns)

After several days of cliff-top villages, we were ready for some beach time. Kamari and Perissa, located on the eastern side of the island, offered a completely different Santorini experience.

These twin beach towns are known for their long stretches of black sand beaches. Coming from Florida, this was a novelty for us. Word of warning: that black sand gets HOT. Like, hop-scotching-to-the-water hot. Bring water shoes!

Safety-wise, we felt very comfortable in both Kamari and Perissa. The beaches are well-organized with lifeguards on duty. However, the waters can get rough, and there are sometimes strong currents. Pay attention to the flag system indicating water conditions.

The towns themselves felt safe and family-friendly. We rented bikes one day to explore the area and had no issues, though the roads can get busy with traffic during peak season.

Nightlife in these beach towns is more low-key compared to Fira, but there are still plenty of bars and restaurants along the beachfront promenades. We never felt unsafe walking around at night, but as always, it's best to stay aware of your surroundings.

Beach town favorites:

1. Ancient Thera - Fascinating archaeological site overlooking Kamari
2. Yalos Beach Bar - Great for a relaxing day by the sea
3. Forty One - Excellent cocktails and sea views in Perissa

Are Kamari and Perissa Safe? YES, but be cautious when swimming.

Akrotiri

Our last stop was Akrotiri, located on the southwestern tip of the island. This area is a bit off the beaten path compared to the more famous villages, but it's home to one of Santorini's most important archaeological sites.

The ancient city of Akrotiri, often called the "Minoan Pompeii," was buried by a volcanic eruption around 1600 BC. Today, you can walk through the remarkably well-preserved ruins. From a safety perspective, the archaeological site is well-maintained and easy to navigate, though it can get hot – bring water and sun protection!

The modern village of Akrotiri is small and quiet. We felt very safe walking around, even at night, though there isn't much nightlife to speak of. The biggest safety concern here is probably the winding roads if you're driving – they can be narrow and have some blind corners.

We spent an afternoon at Red Beach, famous for its dramatic red cliffs. It's beautiful, but the path to get there is a bit treacherous – loose rocks and a steep descent. Wear sturdy shoes and take it slow.

Akrotiri adventures:

1. Akrotiri Archaeological Site - A must-visit for history buffs
2. Lighthouse of Akrotiri - Stunning sunset spot without the Oia crowds
3. Melina's Tavern - Great local food with a view

Is Akrotiri Safe? YES, but be careful on beach access paths and winding roads.

Santorini by Foot and Wheel

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Now, let's talk about getting around this beautiful island. We primarily explored on foot and by rental car, with a few bus trips thrown in for good measure.

Walking

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Walking is by far the best way to explore Santorini's charming villages. The narrow streets and steep steps aren't very car-friendly anyway. We felt safe walking around during both day and night, but here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. The steps can be steep and uneven. Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes.
2. Some paths along the caldera have sheer drop-offs. If you're afraid of heights, stick to the inner village streets.
3. It can get very hot during the day. Carry water and wear sun protection.
4. At night, some areas can be poorly lit. Carry a small flashlight or use your phone's light function.

We did have one slightly unnerving experience walking back to our hotel in Oia late one night. We took a wrong turn and ended up on a dark, narrow path away from the main streets. Nothing happened, but it was a good reminder to pay attention to where we were going, even in a seemingly safe place.

Driving

We rented a car for a few days to explore the more remote parts of the island. Driving in Santorini can be an adventure, to put it mildly. Here's what you need to know:

1. Roads can be narrow and winding, especially along the caldera.
2. Parking in popular areas like Oia and Fira can be a nightmare.
3. Watch out for pedestrians, especially in busy village centers.
4. Be prepared for the occasional donkey or goat in the road!

We had a minor scare when a scooter zoomed around a blind corner on the wrong side of the road. Thankfully, I was driving slowly and was able to stop in time. It was a good reminder to always stay alert, even on seemingly quiet roads.

Despite these challenges, we found driving to be a great way to explore the island at our own pace. Just be sure to rent from a reputable company and check your insurance coverage.

Public Transportation

Santorini has a pretty decent bus system that connects most of the major towns and beaches. We used it a few times and found it to be safe and relatively reliable. However, buses can get very crowded during peak season, and the schedules can be a bit... flexible.

One day, we decided to take the bus from Fira to the beach in Perissa. The bus was packed, and let's just say the driver seemed to think he was auditioning for "Fast and Furious: Santorini Drift." It was more exciting than we bargained for, but we arrived safely (if a bit windblown).

Taxis are also available, but they can be hard to find and expensive. We used them a couple of times late at night and had no issues, but make sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey.

Recommended Safe Itinerary

Based on our experiences, here's a 3-day itinerary that balances seeing the best of Santorini while keeping safety in mind:

Day 1: Fira and Imerovigli

• Morning: Start in Fira. Visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thira to learn about the island's fascinating history.
• Afternoon: Take the hike from Fira to Imerovigli. Go slow, bring water, and enjoy the stunning views.
• Evening: Have dinner at La Maison in Imerovigli. Take a taxi back to your hotel if it's after dark.

Day 2: Beach Day and Akrotiri

• Morning: Head to Perissa or Kamari beach. Remember your sunscreen and water shoes!
• Afternoon: Visit the Akrotiri Archaeological Site. It's cooler inside, making it a good afternoon activity.
• Evening: Watch the sunset from the Akrotiri Lighthouse.

Day 3: Oia

• Morning: Explore Oia before the crowds arrive. Visit Atlantis Books and wander the charming streets.
• Afternoon: Take a sunset sailing tour. It's a great way to see the caldera and avoid the sunset crowds in Oia.
• Evening: Late dinner in Oia. The streets are much calmer after sunset.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

After two weeks of sun, sand, and yes, quite a few stairs, what's our verdict on Santorini's safety?

Overall, we found Santorini to be a very safe destination. The biggest risks we encountered were environmental - steep stairs, hot sun, rough seas - rather than crime-related. That said, it's always important to exercise common sense and stay aware of your surroundings.

Here are our top safety tips for visiting Santorini:

1. Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes. Those charming cobblestone streets can be treacherous.
2. Stay hydrated and use sun protection. The Greek sun is no joke.
3. Be cautious when swimming, especially if the seas are rough.
4. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded tourist areas.
5. If you rent a vehicle, drive defensively and be prepared for narrow, winding roads.
6. Check the bus schedules in advance and be prepared for potential delays.
7. Have a plan for getting home safely if you're out late at night.
8. Be respectful of the local environment and culture.
9. Keep emergency numbers handy, including your hotel and local authorities.
10. Consider travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuations.

Compared to other popular tourist destinations, we found Santorini to be relatively safe. It doesn't have the pickpocket problems of cities like Barcelona or Rome, and violent crime is rare. The main safety concerns are really about taking care of yourself in a hot, hilly environment.

That said, Santorini is not without its challenges. The surge in tourism has put a strain on the island's infrastructure, and there are ongoing concerns about sustainability. As visitors, it's our responsibility to travel respectfully and do our part to preserve this beautiful destination for future generations.

Would we recommend visiting Santorini? Absolutely! Just pack your common sense along with your sunscreen, and you're in for an unforgettable adventure.

About Us

We're West and Sarah Parker, a couple of food-loving, adventure-seeking remote workers from Florida. West is a Cornell University School of Hotel Administration graduate who's spent two decades crafting bespoke adventures for high-end travelers. Now, at 45, he's a resident writer for Town & Tourist, combining his industry insights with a passion for helping everyone travel better and safer.

Sarah, a software developer with a knack for finding the best local eateries, is the perfect travel partner. Together, we're on a mission to explore the world, one safe and delicious destination at a time.

We believe that with the right information and a bit of preparation, everyone can have amazing travel experiences. Our goal is to provide you with honest, firsthand accounts that help you travel smarter, safer, and with more confidence.

Remember, the world is full of incredible places waiting to be explored. Stay safe out there, and bon voyage!