Santorini, with its iconic whitewashed buildings, deep blue waters, and jaw-dropping sunsets, is one of Greece’s most popular destinations. Visiting this beautiful island in April offers a unique experience compared to the busier summer months. Let’s dive into what you can expect when planning a trip to Santorini in April.
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How to Get to Santorini from the US
1. Direct Flights
There are no direct flights from the US to Santorini, but you can easily reach the island with one or two stops. The most common route is to fly into Athens (ATH), the capital of Greece, and then take a connecting flight to Santorini Airport (JTR). I love to use Expedia for bundle deals, where I book a flight plus hotels. To get to Santorini, I would book a flight and a two-night hotel.
2. Flying to Santorini via Athens
- Step 1: Fly to Athens. Major airlines like Delta, United, and American Airlines offer direct flights from major US cities (e.g., New York, Chicago, Los Angeles) to Athens International Airport. The flight duration from the US to Athens ranges from 9 to 12 hours, depending on your departure city.
- Step 2: Fly from Athens to Santorini. From Athens, you can catch a short domestic flight to Santorini, which takes about 45-50 minutes. Airlines such as Aegean Airlines, Sky Express, and Olympic Air operate frequent flights to Santorini. The tickets are relatively affordable if booked in advance, especially during off-peak times like April.
Check out some deals at Sky Scanner.
3. Ferry from Athens to Santorini
For those who prefer a more scenic option, you can take a ferry from Athens (Piraeus Port) to Santorini. The ferry ride takes 5 to 8 hours depending on the type of ferry (high-speed or regular). Ferries depart daily, and companies like Blue Star Ferries and SeaJets offer frequent services. This option is a great way to see more of the Aegean Sea.
- Step 1: After landing in Athens, take a 30-45 minute taxi or shuttle to Piraeus Port.
- Step 2: Board the ferry to Santorini. Keep in mind that while ferries offer beautiful views, they can be subject to delays depending on the weather, so plan accordingly.
4. Other European Hubs
Suppose you are flying from smaller US cities or looking for better connections. In that case, another option is to fly into a major European hub like London, Paris, or Frankfurt and then catch a connecting flight to Santorini. Major airlines like British Airways, Lufthansa, and Air France often have flights to Santorini, especially during the tourist season.
5. When to Book
When planning a trip around Easter or in early April, when tourism is at its peak, it is wise to book your flights in advance to ensure the best price and availability. Flights may fill up rapidly, and last-minute reservations can be expensive.
Bonus tip: You can find a good deal if you book in advance and check your travel dates. Booking your Santorini April trip closer to Easter can affect the prices. I love using Expedia.com for bundle packages, as sometimes I even find better direct flights this way.
Also, check out Travel to Greece Cheaply and 5 Days in Greece.
Is April a Good Time to Visit Santorini?
April is an excellent time to visit Santorini for those looking to avoid the intense crowds of summer. The island is still relatively empty and peaceful in April, when the tourist season begins, so you can enjoy its splendor without the hoopla of July and August.
Temperatures in April typically range from fifteen to twenty degrees Celsius (59 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit), making it a mild month overall. During this time, you can go sightseeing, hiking, or exploring without being oppressed by the oppressive summer heat, and you can enjoy the beautiful caldera and other outdoor attractions.
First Week of April in Santorini
While the island is still relatively empty in the first week of April, Santorini starts to transition into its tourist season. Though the main summer festivals have not yet begun, there are a few noteworthy events that typically take place around this time:
1. Greek Orthodox Easter Preparations
If Greek Easter falls in April (it varies each year), the first week of the month is often filled with preparations for Easter celebrations. Holy Week (the week leading up to Easter) is when churches start holding evening services, and the atmosphere across the island becomes more festive. You’ll see churches decorated with flowers, and locals start to prepare for the major religious holiday.
2. Spring Bloom
In April, Santorini welcomes spring with the arrival of blooming wildflowers all over the island. When set against the whitewashed buildings and caldera, this becomes even more eye-catching. Less crowds mean more time for photographers and nature lovers to soak up the island’s breathtaking scenery.
Thirdly, Things Happening Before the Season
As the summer tourist season approaches, you might see some eateries and nightclubs reopening their doors. It is not uncommon to find early-season discounts and specials, particularly on lodging. You can avoid the summer crowds and enjoy more individualized service at local businesses when you visit in the fall.
4. Quiet Cultural Experiences
While larger festivals happen later in the year, the first week of April is perfect for a cultural and historical exploration of Santorini. You can visit key archaeological sites like Akrotiri and the Archaeological Museum of Thera with fewer crowds and enjoy a more peaceful ambiance.
What Is the Weather Like in Santorini in April?
Santorini in April sees mild and pleasant weather, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 15-20°C (59-68°F). Nights can still be cool, dipping down to 12-14°C (54-57°F), so packing layers is a good idea.
As for rain, April is one of the drier months, with only occasional showers. You’ll likely enjoy plenty of sunshine, but it’s always a good idea to pack a light waterproof jacket just in case. It can have a few cool nights, so bring some layers. Overall, you can expect good weather for sightseeing, dining outdoors, and leisurely walks along the caldera.
How Much Sunlight Do You Get in Santorini in April?
April in Santorini offers increasing sunshine hours, giving you more time to explore. You can expect around 12 to 13 hours of daylight each day, with sunrise around 6:45 AM and sunset around 7:45 PM by the end of the month.
April is a great month to visit the island because of the longer days, which allow you to relax and enjoy outdoor activities like sightseeing and hiking.
Can You Swim in Santorini in April?
Although the peak tourist season begins in April, not all beach clubs will be open for business at the start of the month. Preparations for the season are underway at many beach clubs around this time, especially in more popular areas like Perissa and Kamari. Many of them will be operational by the middle to the end of April, particularly due to the influx of Easter tourists to the island.
Bars and restaurants along the beach will have a more relaxed vibe than they do during the summer, but you can still enjoy the same fantastic views, delicious cocktails, and tranquil atmosphere. If you have your heart set on visiting a particular beach club, research in advance.
Water sports in Santorini in April
Practicing water sports in Santorini is possible in April, but there are some limitations due to the weather and sea conditions. Here’s what you can expect:
Water Sports Availability in April
- Sea Temperature: The average seawater temperature in April is around 17°C (63°F), which is generally considered too cold for many people to swim comfortably. While some may brave a quick dip, prolonged exposure is not advisable.
- Water Sports Options: Despite the cooler temperatures, several water sports activities are available:
- Kayaking: Companies like Serenity Sea Kayak offer guided tours along the coastline, allowing participants to paddle past stunning rock formations and enjoy the scenery.
- Sailing and Catamaran Cruises: Semi-private or private sailing cruises are popular, providing opportunities for sightseeing, swimming, and enjoying meals on board. These cruises often include stops at beautiful beaches and the caldera.
- Jet Skiing and Other Thrills: Extreme Watersports Santorini offers activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and water skiing. These activities can be enjoyed even in cooler weather, as participants are typically provided with wetsuits.
Are Beach Clubs Open in April?
Since Santorini is still shedding its winter coat in April, not all beach clubs will be open and ready to go when the month begins. But you will see that many well-known restaurants and beach clubs start to welcome customers in mid- to late-April, especially as Greek Easter approaches.
Below, you will find all the necessary information:
Kamari Beach
The black sand beaches of Kamari are among the first places where beach clubs sprout up. Soul by Splash and Almira Restaurant, two of the most famous spots, usually begin preparing for the tourist season around the beginning to middle of April. As the Easter holidays approach, you can anticipate a livelier ambiance, with many restaurants and bars providing Aegean views alongside their food and cocktails.
Perissa Beach
Another well-known black sand beach with a comparable chronology is Perissa Beach. Many beach bars, such as Tranquilo and Wet Stories, will likely open by mid-April, with beach chairs and umbrellas available for rent. While it won’t have the high-energy vibe you’d find in July and August, April offers a more relaxed and intimate experience.
Perivolos Beach
Perivolos, known for its vibrant beach clubs in summer, may still be waking up in early April, but Seaside by Notos, one of the most iconic spots, typically opens by mid-April. By then, you’ll find restaurants, beach bars, and lounge areas offering a chilled-out, early-season vibe. It’s a great place to relax, enjoy a cocktail, and take in the view without the summer crowds.
Red Beach
While there are no formal beach clubs at Red Beach, it’s a must-visit for its stunning natural beauty. There may be a few vendors setting up by late April, but this beach is more about the natural experience than the typical Santorini beach club scene.
General Beach Club Experience in April
Beach clubs in Santorini in April provide a more tranquil and laid-back atmosphere compared to the bustling summer months. Instead of packed clubs, you’ll enjoy quieter spots with personalized service, fewer crowds, and better access to prime spots on the beach.
While some clubs may have already begun operations, others may be in the midst of peak season preparations. In particular during the first half of April, it is wise to call or check online to make sure that particular beach clubs are open.
If you plan on visiting around the end of April, especially around Easter, you might find more options for food, drinks, and beach lounging at the various beach clubs as they prepare for the busy season.
Are Shops Open in Santorini in April?
Most shops, restaurants, and cafes in Santorini begin opening their doors in April as the tourist season kicks off. In less popular areas, you might find a few stores closed at the start of April, but by the middle to the end of the month, most should be open and ready to welcome you.
Many stores will be open for business in the island’s two main towns, Fira and Oia. Before you plan to shop on Good Friday or Easter Sunday, it is a smart idea to call ahead and see if the stores will be open or closed due to Greek Easter celebrations.
The best places to eat in Santorini in April
In April, Santorini offers a wide array of restaurants to suit any palate. Some of the island’s finest dining establishments this month are as follows:
Recommended Santorini Restaurants
The Fisherman’s House: Located in a less touristy area, this restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and local dishes. It’s a hidden gem for those looking for authentic flavors away from the main tourist spots.
Taverna Glaros: Located in Akrotiri, this restaurant is a must-visit for seafood lovers. It offers a comprehensive menu with freshly prepared seafood and excellent service, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.
Metaxi Mas: Often hailed as one of the best restaurants in Santorini, Metaxi Mas is situated in Exo Gonia. It serves authentic Cretan cuisine and is known for its grilled octopus and oven-baked dishes. The restaurant provides a more local dining experience away from the tourist crowds.
Dimitris Taverna: Known for its lively Greek Nights, this taverna offers traditional Greek music, dancing, and delicious local cuisine. It’s a great place to enjoy a fun evening while sampling various Greek dishes.
Ouzeri: Located in Fira, Ouzeri is praised for its fresh and tasty food, including traditional Greek dishes at reasonable prices. It’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors, making it a reliable choice for a meal.
Athenian House: For a fine dining experience with stunning sunset views, Athenian House in Imerovigli offers a sophisticated menu featuring local ingredients. It’s ideal for a romantic dinner.
Tavern Tzanakis: Situated in Megalochori, this family-run restaurant serves classic Greek dishes like fava and tomato keftedes (cherry tomato fritters). It’s known for its home-cooked feel and welcoming atmosphere.
Restaurants with Rooftop Views that are Open in April
Santorini is renowned for its stunning views, and several rooftop restaurants offer breathtaking panoramas of the caldera and the Aegean Sea. Here are some of the best rooftop dining options to consider:
- Strogili Restaurant: Located on the main street in Imerovigli, this restaurant boasts romantic views of the blue domes and the ocean. It offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring local cuisine.
- Kastro Restaurant: Situated in Oia, Kastro offers beautiful sunset views and a delightful dining experience. It’s a popular spot for those looking to enjoy a meal while watching the sun dip below the horizon.
- Cavo Tagoo Santorini: This luxurious venue near Imerovigli features a rooftop bar and restaurant with stunning caldera views. It’s known for its boujee vibe and crafted cocktails, making it perfect for a romantic evening.
- Athenian House: Located in Imerovigli, this restaurant offers a fine dining experience with spectacular views of the caldera. It’s an excellent choice for couples looking to enjoy a gourmet meal while taking in the scenery.
- Naoussa: Found in Fira, Naoussa provides a lovely terrace view of the caldera. It’s well-regarded for its traditional Greek dishes and is an ideal spot for sunset dining.
- Petra Restaurant: Located at Canaves Oia Hotel, this fine dining restaurant offers a luxurious experience with panoramic views of the caldera and exquisite cuisine. It’s perfect for special occasions.
- Volkan on the Rocks: This café and restaurant offers a unique view of the caldera and a menu featuring local delicacies. It’s also known for its outdoor cinema, adding a special touch to your dining experience.
These rooftop restaurants not only provide fantastic views but also a memorable dining experience, making them perfect for romantic dinners or special occasions in Santorini. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during the busy months.
Santorini Dining Tips
- Reservations: It’s advisable to make reservations, especially for popular spots like Metaxi Mas and Athenian House, as they can fill up quickly even in the shoulder season of April.
- Local Cuisine: Be sure to try local specialties such as fava (yellow split pea puree), tomatokeftedes (tomato fritters), and grilled octopus, which are highlights of Santorini’s culinary scene.
- Enjoy the Views: Many restaurants, especially in Fira and Imerovigli, offer stunning caldera views, making dining a picturesque experience.
These dining options provide a mix of traditional and modern Greek cuisine, ensuring a delightful culinary experience while visiting Santorini in April.
Greek Easter Celebrations in Santorini
Greek Easter, which can fall in April, is the most significant religious holiday in Greece, and Santorini celebrates it with grandeur and beauty. If you’re visiting during this time, you’ll experience a rich cultural and spiritual atmosphere, full of traditions, ceremonies, and feasts.
Easter celebrations in Santorini begin during Holy Week (the week leading up to Easter Sunday). Each evening, locals gather in the island’s churches for services. Good Friday is marked with somber processions, where flower-covered icons are carried through the streets by candlelight. One of the most popular processions takes place in Pyrgos, a village known for its stunning Good Friday spectacle. The entire village is lit up with thousands of small lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere as the procession makes its way through the narrow streets.
On Holy Saturday, the mood shifts to one of celebration. Just before midnight, locals gather in churches across the island, such as the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral in Fira and the Panagia Episkopi Church in Mesa Gonia. People light candles and wait for the priest to declare “Christos Anesti!” (Christ is Risen!), signifying the resurrection of Christ. When the clock strikes midnight, fireworks light up the night sky, and the joyous celebrations begin.
On Easter Sunday, families and friends gather to celebrate with a feast, often featuring spit-roasted lamb, magiritsa (a traditional Easter soup), and plenty of wine. If you’re staying in a local guesthouse or villa, your hosts may invite you to join their Easter feast, allowing you to experience the warmth of Greek hospitality.
What Should You Pack for Santorini in April?
Packing for April in Santorini means being prepared for mild spring weather with the potential for cooler evenings. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Light jacket or sweater: Ideal for cool mornings and evenings. Target has some great ones.
- Comfortable walking shoes: Santorini’s streets are often cobbled and steep. I love Veja Shoes or New Balance.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen: The sun can still be strong, even in spring. I love Sojos ones from Amazon.
- Layers: Temperatures fluctuate during the day, so t-shirts and light sweaters are useful.
- Swimwear: For those daring enough to brave the cooler waters or enjoy a heated pool.
- Waterproof jacket: Just in case of an unexpected April shower.
Best Areas to Stay in Santorini in April
In April, your choice of accommodation depends on what kind of experience you’re after. Here are a few recommendations:
- Fira: The capital is lively in April, with many shops and restaurants already open. It’s a great base for exploring the island.
- Oia: Famous for its sunsets, Oia is quieter in April, making it a peaceful spot for those who prefer fewer crowds
- Imerovigli: Offering panoramic caldera views, Imerovigli is more serene than Fira but still close to the action(
- Kamari: If you want to be near the beach, Kamari is a great option. Many beachside restaurants and cafes start reopening in April
Hotel prices tend to be better in April, but there is something for every type of budget.
Best Hotels in Santorini with heated pools perfect for April
Several hotels offer excellent options for those looking to enjoy a stay in Santorini with heated swimming pools in April. Here are some of the best choices:
Hotels with Heated Pools
- Cavo Tagoo: Located in Imerovigli, this hotel features a heated infinity pool with stunning sunset views over the caldera. All room types include private heated pools or jacuzzis, making it a luxurious choice for couples.
- Athina Luxury Suites: Situated in Fira, this hotel boasts a heated infinity pool with a swim-up bar and breathtaking caldera views. The top-tier suites also come with private heated jacuzzis, perfect for relaxation.
- Katikies Hotel: This iconic hotel in Oia offers three infinity pools, one of which is heated. Some rooms also feature private heated plunge pools, providing an intimate setting for guests.
- The Vasilicos: Also in Imerovigli, this hotel has a heated main pool with sunset views. Many rooms include private heated plunge pools, ideal for a romantic getaway.
- Andronis Concept Wellness Resort: This resort features a heated infinity pool with sunset views and offers private heated pools in all room types, combining luxury with wellness.
- Rocabella Santorini: Located in Imerovigli, Rocabella has a heated infinity pool along with private heated plunge pools or jacuzzis in the rooms, ensuring comfort during cooler evenings.
- Canaves Oia Hotel: This hotel offers several suites with private heated pools, providing a luxurious experience with stunning caldera views.
- These hotels not only provide heated pools but also stunning views and luxurious amenities, making them perfect for a romantic escape in Santorini during April.
What Are the Top Things to Do in Santorini in April?
Despite the cooler temperatures, there’s plenty to do in Santorini in April:
- Explore Fira and Oia: Wander the cobbled streets of Santorini’s two most famous towns and take in breathtaking views of the caldera(
- Visit the Akrotiri Archaeological Site: Step back in time by visiting this well-preserved Bronze Age settlement.
- Wine tasting: Santorini’s famous volcanic wines, like Assyrtiko, are a must-try, and vineyards are open for tastings in April.
- Hike from Fira to Oia: This 10 km (6-mile) scenic hike offers incredible views, and the April weather is perfect for it.
- Sunset boat tour: April’s less-crowded environment makes it ideal for a relaxed sunset boat cruise, offering stunning island views as the sun sets.
- Greek Easter celebrations: If you visit during Greek Easter, join in the candlelit processions and traditional Easter feasts.
Is April a good time to go on a road trip in Santorini?
April is an excellent time for a road trip in Santorini. With lighter traffic and milder weather, driving around the island is a great way to explore its hidden gems, from lesser-known villages like Pyrgos to the stunning black sand beaches of Kamari and Perissa(
Be mindful that some roads can be narrow and steep, but the April traffic makes it much easier to navigate than during peak season. Make sure to arrive early at popular destinations like Oia to find parking. Check out Driving in Greece.
Conclusion
Visiting Santorini in April is a great time of year. It offers a unique blend of culture, mild weather, and fewer crowds. Whether you’re exploring ancient archaeological sites, participating in Greek Easter celebrations, or simply enjoying a peaceful sunset cruise, April is an ideal time for a more relaxed and affordable Santorini experience. Just pack wisely and prepare for the occasional cool breeze or light shower, and you’ll be all set for a wonderful spring getaway.
