Santorini

Beach Coastal Beaches

Population: 16k

Cost of Living: High

Train Access: No

Bus Access: Yes (KTEL Santorini buses)

Weather: Santorini experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters, making it an ideal destination for most of the year.

Santorini, officially known as Thira, is a world-renowned island in the southern Aegean Sea, part of the Cyclades group of islands in Greece. This island is celebrated for its dramatic views, stunning sunsets, and white-washed buildings with blue domes that cascade down the rugged cliffs. Santorini was formed by a massive volcanic eruption, which created its unique caldera and the surrounding archipelago. The island's main towns, including Fira and Oia, are perched atop the cliffs, offering breathtaking vistas of the crystal-clear waters below. Santorini's volcanic history has also blessed it with unique beaches with sands ranging from black, red, to white, attracting beachgoers from around the world. The island's soil is fertile, allowing for the cultivation of distinctive crops like the Assyrtiko grape, leading to a thriving wine industry with numerous wineries offering tastings and tours. Santorini's archaeological sites, such as the ancient city of Akrotiri, provide a glimpse into the island's rich history, which dates back to the Minoan civilization. The island's unique architecture, with cave houses built into the cliffs, and the iconic blue-domed churches, make it a photographer's paradise. Despite its small size, Santorini offers a variety of activities, from exploring the narrow alleyways of its charming villages to sailing around the caldera and soaking in hot springs. The island's allure makes it a popular spot for romantic getaways, weddings, and honeymoons. With its combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and luxurious amenities, Santorini continues to captivate visitors from all corners of the globe.

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Visa & Residency

Difficulty Obtaining: average

Popular Expat Visa/s: Greece Golden Visa, D Visa for Long Term Residence

Popular Nomad Visa/s: Greece Digital Nomad Visa, which allows them to live in Greece for up to 12 months, with the possibility of renewal

Obtaining a residency in Greece involves several steps and the process can vary depending on the type of visa one is applying for. The Greece Golden Visa is a popular option for non-EU expats who are willing to make a significant investment in Greece, typically in real estate. This visa grants a five-year residency permit, which can be renewed as long as the investment is maintained. Applicants must invest at least €250,000 in Greek real estate and the process includes gathering necessary documents, such as a clean criminal record and health insurance, and submitting them to the Greek consulate or embassy in their home country. Another option is the D Visa for Long Term Residence, which is suitable for various purposes such as employment, study, or family reunification. The requirements for this visa include a demonstration of sufficient financial resources, health insurance, and a clean criminal record. The application process involves submitting the required documents to the Greek consulate or embassy. For digital nomads, Greece introduced the Digital Nomad Visa, which caters to those who work remotely and wish to live in Greece. To qualify, applicants must prove they are employed or own a company outside of Greece and have sufficient income to support their stay. The income requirement is at least €3,500 per month. This visa allows individuals to stay in Greece for up to 12 months and can be renewed. Overall, while the process can be bureaucratic and may require patience and attention to detail, it is generally considered average in terms of difficulty compared to other European countries. It is important to start the application process well in advance of the intended move date and to ensure all paperwork is accurately completed and submitted. Consulting with a legal expert or who specializes in Greek immigration law can be very helpful in navigating the process.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Santorini is among the highest in Greece due to its popularity as a tourist destination and the limited space available for development on the island.

Weather

Santorini experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters, making it an ideal destination for most of the year.

Restaurants in Santorini

Santorini offers a diverse culinary landscape, ranging from high-end dining to casual eateries. Selene Restaurant, located in Pyrgos village, is known for its fine dining experience and creative Greek cuisine, offering stunning views and a sophisticated atmosphere. For a mid-range option, Argo Restaurant in Fira provides a blend of traditional and modern Greek dishes with a view of the caldera. At the more casual end, Lucky's Souvlakis in Fira is a popular spot for quick and delicious gyros and souvlaki at an affordable price. Another notable mention is The Athenian House, perched on the cliffs of Imerovigli, which serves up Greek and Mediterranean fare with a modern twist and breathtaking sunset views.