A trip to Santorini is a bucket list experience for anyone who wants to experience the epic sunsets, and magnificent cliff views of the crescent shaped Island. Although you are not the only one who wants to visit the most popular of the Cycladic islands, do not let the thought of other tourists deter your desire to plan a trip to Santorini. But to ensure you have a trip of a lifetime, avoid these 6 common mistakes when planning a trip to Santorini.

Common mistakes to avoid on your trip to Santorini

Trip to Santorini Tips — Santorini is known for stunning views like this, make sure you keep reading to avoid the common mistakes people make when they are planning a trip to Santorini

Mistake #1 When planning your trip to Santorini is not arranging your hotel transfer in advance

Whether you arrive by ferry or by air, you need to get to your accommodations, wherever you are. You can arrange a hotel transfer for you in advance and as long as they know your arrival schedule, they will have a vehicle waiting for you. Otherwise you are the mercy of the infrequent busses or very expensive taxis.

In order to avoid this mistake, book a transfer here.

Santorini Donkey’s are an iconic part of Santorini. There is a lot of talk of abuses as these animals work in the hot sun. Ensure you are happy with their treatment if you chose to ride one. And do not judge others if you choose not to.

Mistake # 2 When planning a trip to Santorini is coming to party

If you are looking for a party, Santorini is not the right island for you. But do not skip it completely, just know that dinner plans and some live music are more of the vibe of the island. All you need is 2 days in Santorini and then head over to Mykonos or another one of the popular party islands! While in Santorini you can take a boat cruise and experience the fun and beauty of the Caldera or rent an ATV and explore more hidden spots! If wine is your thing, Santorini has some great wine tours!

Mistake #3 On your trip to Santorini is arriving by cruise ship

When the cruise ships anchor off shore, thousands of tourists flood onto the cliffs of Fira, whose small winding paths were designed for small carts, not thousands of tourists. There are lots of steps, steep sections and when you are shoulder to shoulder with thousands, it can be a bit of a nuisance. It means that the small souvenir shops are often overrun with tourists looking for windmills or donkey souvenirs to remind them of their time in Greece. If you really want to experience Santorini you need more than just the day that a cruise offers. After sunset, all of the cruise passengers go back to the ship and although there are plenty of people staying on the island, the crowds are more manageable.

Mistake #4 to avoid on your trip to Santorini is just staying in Oia

While the most popular and arguably the most romantic, there is so much more to the island than Oia. After a few hours relaxing, grab an ATV or take public transit and see some more of the island! Whether it is the black sand beaches, or the smaller towns or checking out a winery, there is much more to the island than gazing at the cliff side and the waters below!

There are also plenty of tour options that take the work out of planning what to see! You can check them out here.

Santorini Beaches — People do not come to Santorini for the beaches. But that does not mean that they should be skipped! Plan to spend a bit of time enjoying the views of the black sand beaches or black rock beaches of the Island of Santorini

Mistake # 5 Skipping the Beach

While I will be the first to admit that other Greek islands have nicer beaches, that does not mean that you should skip the beaches when planning your trip to Santorini. Whether you opt for renting an ATV, a car or taking a taxi or public transit, it is worth visiting Kamari Beach (the black rock beach in Santorini) and Monolithos Beach (black sands and shallow water).

santorini planning tips — Pack the flip flops for Black Rock Beach as the rocks are burning hot from the hot summer sun! You can people watch or enjoy the stunning cliff views here

Mistake # 6 flushing toilet paper

while this is not a planning mistake, it is something to be mindful when you visit Santorini (and much of Greece). Their sanitation system is not equipped to handle toilet paper and it causes big problems and backups in the sanitation lines.

Do your part and put toilet paper into the garbage can beside the toilet.

source: carpediemourway