Santorini Luxury Tours & Vacations & Holidays 2025 & 2026

Santorini LGBTQ+ Rights

LGBT Rights in Greece

Santorini, known for its iconic sunsets and whitewashed architecture, is a romantic and welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, offering a serene contrast to the party atmosphere of Mykonos. As part of Greece, which legalized same-sex marriage in February 2024, Santorini reflects the country’s evolving commitment to LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity.

While Santorini doesn’t have a specific LGBTQ+ nightlife or scene, it embraces diversity with open arms, making it a safe and comfortable destination for LGBTQ+ visitors. The island is a favorite among same-sex couples seeking a picturesque location for weddings or honeymoons, thanks to Greece’s progressive recognition of marriage equality. Santorini’s luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and private villas cater to all couples, ensuring a welcoming and inclusive experience.

Santorini’s beauty extends beyond its romantic allure. LGBTQ+ travelers can explore charming villages like Oia and Fira, indulge in fine dining with stunning views of the caldera, and enjoy wine tours that showcase the island’s unique volcanic terroir. While public displays of affection are generally acceptable in tourist-friendly areas, visitors may find the atmosphere more reserved compared to Mykonos.

As Greece continues to advance LGBTQ+ rights, Santorini stands out as a tranquil and inclusive retreat for LGBTQ+ travelers looking to experience its world-renowned charm in a welcoming environment. Whether for a wedding, honeymoon, or a peaceful getaway, Santorini offers a timeless escape where all are embraced.

History in Santorini

Santorini is steeped in history, with such sights as the traditional villages and ancient ruins. One of the most popular destinations on the island is Akrotiri. Here, visitors can explore some of the best preserved Minoan sites in Europe and enjoy stunning views of Mount Etna in Sicily. Nature lovers should also make time to visit The Caldera in Fira or take a boat excursion off the coast to see wild dolphins swimming in their natural environment.

The blue domes of Santorini

One of Santorini’s most iconic sights are the white and blue-domed churches. Painted in stark white and a brilliant deep blue, these churches dot the sky around the island captivating visitors with their brilliant display of color. Be sure to take some time and hike to the top of one of the villages for an unforgettable view of these picturesque structures. You may even spot wild donkeys or goats roaming through rustic pathways.

LGBT Rights in Greece

The state of LGBTQ+ rights has made significant progress in recent years in Greece, although hardships and inequalities still persist in areas outside of the major cities. The country has undergone a widespread legal and societal transformation that has begun to improve the rights and protections for LGBTQ+ individuals.

When it comes to legal advancements, Greece decriminalized same-sex sexual activity in 1951, and in 2015, the Greek Parliament passed a law that recognized civil partnerships for same-sex couples, granting them legal recognition and many of the same rights as married heterosexual couples. However, marriage equality has still not been achieved, as same-sex marriages are not legally recognized.

The legal system in Greece prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment and certain other areas. However, LGBTQ+ individuals continue to face discrimination and social stigma in various aspects of their lives. Homophobic and transphobic attitudes persist in some parts of society, especially in more remote and rural areas.

On a positive note, Athens, the capital city, has a vibrant LGBTQ+ community with a thriving nightlife scene, with an annual Pride parade that attracts thousands of participants from across the globe. LGBTQ+ organizations and advocacy groups in Greece actively work to promote equal rights and social acceptance.

Though LGBTQ+ travelers can enjoy visiting all areas of Greece’s diverse landscape, the gorgeous island of Mykonos is a particular favorite amongst the LGBTQ+ community. In Mykonos, you’ll find a plethora of gay-focused bars and clubs as well as some of Europe’s most beautiful gay beaches.

Vineyards in Santorini

Santorini is widely regarded as one of the most luxurious travel destinations in Greece, thanks to its stunningly beautiful landscape and fully-equipped villas. For wine connoisseurs, the island’s volcanic soil and warm climate create ideal conditions for growing some of Greece’s finest white wines – including Assyrtiko, Athiri, and Aidani. Enjoy luxury views along with your luxury tipple on a romantic getaway to Santorini.

Santorini is the perfect destination for luxury travelers looking to indulge in a wonderful experience. For wine lovers, there is no better way to explore the island’s famed vineyards than through one of our curated private guided tours that include tastings, winery and vineyard visits, and sumptuous meals in gourmet restaurants. These customizable tours are designed to meet your exact requirements, providing an unforgettable journey through Santorini’s viniculture.

Weather in Santorini

• January

  9°C - 14°C

• February

  9°C - 14°C

• March

  11°C - 16°C

• April

  13°C - 18°C

• May

  16°C - 22°C

• June

  21°C - 27°C

• July

  23°C - 29°C

• August

  23°C - 30°C

• September

  20°C - 26°C

• October

  17°C - 22°C

• November

  14°C - 18°C

• December

  11°C - 14°C

Getting to Santorini

You can fly or get a ferry to Santorini depending on your itinerary.

Direct flights operate from the UK to Santorini and from the US you are likely to need to change in Athens.

A lot of our clients visit more than one place in Greece, combing Mykonos and Athens with the island and for this route, it’s an experience to take the ferry between islands.