Wondering what to wear in Santorini? The answer is simple: lightweight fabrics, comfortable walking shoes and elevated beachwear that transitions effortlessly from cobblestone villages to volcanic black sand beaches.
Santorini’s style is relaxed yet refined. Days are filled with sunshine and sea breezes, whether you're wandering through Oia’s blue-domed streets, exploring Fira’s cliffside cafes or spending time along the island’s dramatic coastline. And beginning April 2026, Ultimate Santorini — a full-day excursion featuring Europe’s first Royal Beach Club Santorini — makes it even easier to plan outfits that move seamlessly from sightseeing to seaside relaxation.
Here’s exactly what to wear in Santorini based on setting, season and activity.
What is the Dress Code in Santorini?
Santorini does not have a strict dress code. The overall vibe is relaxed, coastal and effortlessly chic.
During the day, lightweight dresses, linen shorts, breezy tops and sandals feel right at home against the island’s white and blue backdrop. In the evenings, the look shifts to slightly elevated. Think flowy maxi dresses, tailored linen sets or a crisp button-down with lightweight trousers. If you’re exploring villages like Oia or Fira, you’ll want outfits that are breathable and easy to move in.
If you’re experiencing Santorini through Royal Beach Club Santorini, your outfit should move effortlessly from sightseeing to seaside. Your day begins with a scenic ferry ride along Santorini’s dramatic coastline before exploring Oia’s blue-domed architecture and Fira’s lively capital streets, then unwinding along a volcanic black sand beach with gourmet dining and panoramic ocean views.
That means breathable fabrics, comfortable shoes and elevated swimwear layered with chic cover-ups are your best bet.
What Colors Should I Wear in Santorini?
Santorini’s natural palette makes outfit planning easy.
White is iconic here. It mirrors the architecture and glows against the deep blue sea. Soft neutrals like beige, sand and cream also complement the volcanic landscape. If you love color, lean into Mediterranean tones such as cobalt, turquoise and terracotta.
For beach days, bright swimwear pops beautifully against black sand. For sunset photos in Oia, soft pastels and flowing fabrics catch the golden light in a dreamy way.
Avoid overly dark outfits during the daytime heat. Black can look striking in photos, but under the midday sun, it absorbs warmth quickly. Instead, save darker shades for evening dinners overlooking the caldera.
When in doubt, think light, airy and sun-kissed.
What Should I Wear to the Beach in Santorini?
Santorini’s beaches are unique. Many feature volcanic black sand or pebbled shores rather than soft white sand.
A well-fitted swimsuit is essential, paired with a breathable cover-up. Linen shirts, crochet dresses and oversized button-downs work well. A wide-brim hat and oversized sunglasses add both sun protection and style.
If your itinerary includes Ultimate Santorini, you’ll want beachwear that feels refined yet practical. The experience culminates at Royal Beach Club Santorini, where you can bask on volcanic black sand, enjoy gourmet Mediterranean flavors and take in sweeping Aegean views.
Choose a swimsuit that feels polished enough to pair with a flowing linen set or structured cover-up. Think effortless resortwear that transitions beautifully from sightseeing in Oia and Fira to seaside relaxation.
Bring a lightweight tote for sunscreen, water and your phone. The Aegean sun is strong, so sun protection is just as important as style.
What Shoes to Wear in Santorini?
Shoes matter more in Santorini than you might expect. The island’s streets are often cobblestoned, uneven and sloped. Heels are not practical for daytime exploring. Instead, opt for:
- Cushioned flat sandals
- Stylish sneakers
- Espadrilles with sturdy soles
If you’re heading to Oia for sunset, comfortable sandals are still your best bet. You'll likely be walking and standing while navigating narrow pathways. For beach days — especially along volcanic sand — choose sandals that are easy to slip off. Closed-toe shoes can trap sand and feel uncomfortable in the heat.
A pro tip: Pack at least one pair of shoes with strong grip. Santorini’s smooth stone paths can become slippery, particularly near caldera viewpoints.
What Not to Wear in Santorini?
Certain items can make your Santorini experience less comfortable. Try to avoid:
- Stiletto heels
- Heavy fabrics like denim jackets during summer
- Tight synthetic clothing that traps heat
- Delicate white shoes at volcanic beaches
High heels and unstable footwear are the biggest mistakes visitors make. The terrain simply isn’t designed for them. Avoid overpacking bulky layers in peak summer. Daytime temperatures can feel intense, and lightweight fabrics are far more practical.
Lastly, leave overly formal outfits at home unless you have a specific event planned. Even upscale dining spots lean toward elegant but relaxed.
How To Dress in Santorini by Season
Santorini’s weather changes subtly by season and your wardrobe should reflect that.
What To Wear in Santorini in Spring (April–May)
Spring brings warm days and cooler evenings. If you're visiting in April, especially when Royal Beach Club℠ Santorini debuts as part of Ultimate Santorini in late April 2026, pack:
- Midi dresses with a light cardigan
- Linen trousers with breathable tops
- Comfortable sandals
- A lightweight jacket for sunset
Temperatures are pleasant, but evenings can feel breezy along the caldera.
What To Wear in Santorini in Summer (June–September)
Summer is peak heat and peak sunshine. When planning what to wear in Santorini in summer, prioritize:
- Flowy cotton or linen dresses
- Loose shorts and tanks
- Structured swimwear with stylish cover-ups
- Wide-brim hats and UV sunglasses
This is when breathable fabrics matter most. Avoid heavy denim and tight synthetic materials. Santorini outfits in summer should feel effortless, airy and sun-ready.
What To Wear in Santorini in Fall (October)
Fall remains warm during the day, but cooler at night. Pack:
- Lightweight dresses
- Closed-toe sandals or espadrilles
- A light sweater or wrap
October is ideal for comfortable sightseeing outfits that transition easily into evening dinners.
What To Wear in Santorini in Winter (November–March)
Winter is quieter and cooler. You’ll want:
- Light sweaters
- Comfortable jeans or trousers
- A medium-weight jacket
- Closed-toe walking shoes
Beachwear becomes less essential and practical layers take priority.
Clothes To Pack for Santorini
Here’s a practical packing list for your trip:
- 2–3 lightweight dresses
- Linen shorts or trousers
- Breathable tops and tanks
- Swimsuits (at least two)
- Stylish cover-up
- Comfortable walking sandals
- Sneakers or espadrilles
- Wide-brim hat
- Sunglasses
- Light sweater or shawl
- Evening outfit for dinner
- Crossbody bag or small backpack
- Beach tote
Focus on versatile pieces that can mix and match easily. Santorini style is cohesive, so capsule-style packing works beautifully.
FAQs: What To Wear in Santorini:
1. What should I wear in Santorini in summer?
In summer, wear lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen and cotton, along with comfortable flat sandals. Santorini’s temperatures are hot and sunny, so flowy dresses, loose shorts and structured swimwear with a chic cover-up are ideal. Add a wide-brim hat and sunglasses for sun protection while exploring Oia, Fira or the island’s beaches.
2. What shoes are best for Santorini?
The best shoes for Santorini are flat sandals with good support, espadrilles with sturdy soles or comfortable sneakers. The island’s streets are often cobblestoned and sloped, especially in Oia and Fira, so heels and unstable footwear are not recommended. Choose shoes with grip to handle smooth stone walkways.
3. What should I wear to Royal Beach Club Santorini?
For Royal Beach Club Santorini, choose elevated beachwear that transitions easily from sightseeing to seaside relaxation. The experience is part of Ultimate Santorini, a full-day excursion featuring scenic coastal views, village stops in Oia and Fira and time along a volcanic black sand beach beginning summer 2026. A structured swimsuit, linen cover-up and comfortable sandals are ideal.
4. Can you wear heels in Santorini?
Heels are not practical in Santorini, due to uneven pathways and steep inclines. While they may look stylish in photos, most visitors find them uncomfortable for walking between villages and viewpoints. Flat sandals or block heels with stability are a better choice.
5. What is the dress code in Santorini?
Santorini’s dress code is relaxed yet polished. During the day, lightweight dresses, linen sets and sandals are common. In the evening, visitors often opt for slightly elevated outfits such as maxi dresses or tailored trousers with a breezy blouse, especially for sunset dinners overlooking the caldera.
6. What should I wear to a black sand beach in Santorini?
For a black sand beach in Santorini, wear a comfortable swimsuit paired with a breathable cover-up and easy-to-remove sandals. Volcanic sand can become warm in peak summer, so supportive footwear and lightweight fabrics are essential. Elevated resortwear works especially well if your beach stop is part of a curated experience like Ultimate Santorini.
7. Do I need different outfits for Oia, Fira and the beach?
You do not need completely different outfits, but layering is key. A breathable daytime outfit with comfortable shoes works for exploring Oia and Fira. You can layer a swimsuit underneath if your itinerary includes a beach stop. Versatile pieces that move from village strolls to shoreline lounging are the smartest choice.
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