What to Wear in Santorini: Helpful Tips & Santorini Outfit Ideas
When you’re visiting a destination as popular and picturesque as Santorini, you might feel the pressure of packing juust right for both comfort and glamour shots! I visited Greece in October for three weeks, packed carry-on only and felt well prepared. So, here’s my guide for you on what to wear in Santorini.
What to wear in Santorini: Key considerations and Santorini outfit ideas
Unless you know you will only focus on lounging around and swimming while there, you’re going to want to pack for a variety of conditions.
There’s more to Santorini than luxe hotels and fine dining – you can hike, wander traditional villages and even explore archaeological sites.
Use these recommended pieces to create your own travel capsule wardrobe for Santorini.
Hiking clothes and shoes
One iconic activity to add to your Santorini Greece itinerary is the hike from Fira to Oia (or vice versa). It’s a cliffside trek with stunning views, but can be a steep and rocky climb at times.
You’ll want to bring comfortable shoes with good traction, as well as sweat-wicking clothes. There’s no shade along this path, so be sure to start early in the day and bring a hat as well as additional sun protection.
Sensible yet cute shoes
Leave your high heels behind as you’re bound to run into steps and hills here. Instead, pack supportive sandals, flats, espadrilles or even low wedges.
Bring along flip flops if you’re planning a boat or beach day, too. And it doesn’t hurt to have a pair of sneakers (especially if you can also hike in them).
Long dresses, due to the wind
I generally feel more comfortable traveling solo to new places in longer dresses rather than short. In Santorini, a longer dress offers the added benefit of protection from the wind raising your clothes up! Opt for maxi or midi dresses.
Wondering whether you should pack an epic gown or super long, flowy dress for a Santorini photo shoot? No need, because the photographers here have already thought of that.
You can book a Santorini flying dress photo shoot and your outfit will be provided – one less thing for you to pack!
Colors that blend in and stand out
Most people pack the quintessential blue and white when traveling to Santorini, and you really can’t go wrong with that approach.
But, if you want to stand out and add some pop to your photos consider mixing it up a little. Throw in some bright reds and yellows.
Alternatively, choose some pastels in different shades to complement the beauty of your surroundings in a more subtle way.
Sun protection
Even in October, Santorini sun was prominent. Don’t skimp on the sun protection in multiple forms – bring a hat, polarized sunglasses and plenty of sunscreen.
Swimsuit and coverup
This one is pretty straightforward. Do you plan to swim? Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit, and either a cover up or shorts to pair with it.
Lightweight, breathable fabrics
It can feel pretty hot during the day in Santorini. As you choose your outfits, focus on packing more breathable fabrics like cotton and linen.
Layers
In early mornings or late at night, you may feel slightly chilly at times. Bring a light cardigan or button down for easy layering.
Nightlife outfits
I packed zero nightlife outfits (unless you count my one sort of chic, black tank top) because I’m not much of a nightlife girl these days. But, if you’re planning to enjoy Santorini’s clubs or bar scene be sure to pack some outfits accordingly.
Most places are overall casual but if you have your heart on a specific venue, it might be a good idea to check their website or reviews for any information about dress codes in place.
Final thoughts on what to wear in Santorini
Ultimately, go with what you’re comfortable in when it comes to your Santorini packing list. Choose lightweight fabrics and comfortable shoes when possible.
Once you’re there, remember to be respectfully dressed for different environments (ie, cover shoulders and knees for churches, dress up for fine dining restaurants, etc).
Santorini is Instagram-worthy and with some intentional outfit planning, you’ll be snapshot ready for your island adventure.
