As on any Greek island, hotels in Santorini tend to be a bit on the pricey side. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a vacation in Santorini even if you are on a tight budget. Hostels and camping sites cater for the backpackers and those who enjoy nature, for students and writers alike.

What to Expect

Hostels are known for being quite “dull” in most towns (especially Thessaloniki). But in Santorini (just like in Athens), hostels look more like budget hotels, offering a variety of facilities. You can find both private rooms and dormitories so before you decide to book a room, think about the possibility of having to live in the same room with people you have never met.

How important is the Location?

In Santorini you will find two hostels: one in Fira and one in Perissa. If you plan to spend your vacation at the beach, make sure to book a room in the hostel in Perrisa, while if you plan to visit the volcano and other sites, head for Fira.

Booking.com

Worth trying

Hostel Anna is located in Perrisa. It offers basic accommodation in dormitories but can get very busy during the high season. The hostel is very close to the city center (400 m / 0.24 miles) and right opposite a lovely restaurant-bar (run by the same owners). There is Internet access on site and all rooms are air conditioned. If you a part of a small group, the best option would be the 4-bed dormitories located at the top floor. The prices appeal to any traveler. For 2008, during the entire summer season, the price for a bed in a private double room starts at €11/night, while the price for a bed in 10-beds dorm starts at €6/night. The bed linen costs an additional €1 and you have to bring your towels. Also, breakfast is not included in the price.

Santorini Hostel is located in the center of the traditional village of Fira. The hostel offers 15 private rooms and 4 dorms, TV, AC, Wi-Fi around the premises (be careful though and don’t relay on it since many travelers reported problems when trying to connect) and an Internet room in the hostel, swimming pool and lovely terraces. The hostel opens in April and closes in October. For 2008, in April, May and October, the price for a single room is €49/night, while the price for a bed in a 6-beds dorm is €19.90/night. In June, July and September, the prices are a bit higher as the same single room now costs €59/night, while a bed in a 6-beds dorm costs €25/night. August is the most expensive month, with prices starting from €30/night for a bed in a 6-beds dorm and €69/night for a single room. The bed linen and towels are included in the bed price and breakfast costs €5/person/day.

Camping Sites in Santorini

If you happen to enjoy nature, there are three camping sites in Santorini: Perissa, Santorini and Caldera View. The only problem with all of them is that it’s impossible to book online, let alone find any other information (including prices).