Santorini and Mykonos, are two of the most famous Greek islands, putting the Santorini V Mykonos question is up there as one of the toughest travelling decisions. Sun-bleached, smooth edged houses, azure-domed churches, narrow streets and glorious sea views are synonymous with this little corner of paradise. So when pushed for time, how is anyone supposed to make the decision of which one to visit.

I visited Santorini last year and loved it. As in really, really loved it. So when I booked to go to Mykonos this summer, I was worried that it was an error, that there was no way it could be as beautiful as Santorini.

Having visited both, I can say that while they are both complete picture-perfect Greek islands, they each have their own charm

Santorini

Santorini is built on a caldera (volcanic crater), giving it a circular shape with views looking inwards towards the centre of what would have been the volcanic centre. Picture perfect Santorini views, with it’s blue domed churches, are from the town of Oía at the tip of the caldera. This is the place to stay during any trip to Santorini. With a caldera facing balcony, you have no reason to leave your little space of heaven.

The town of Oía is romantic, it is everything you imagine when you picture Santorini in your mind. But with this it gets busy. Staying in Oía allows you to explore the winding streets early in the morning before cruise ships of tourists arrive. 

Santorini is full of stunning luxury hotels. I stayed at Andronis Suites, home to the phenomenal Lycabettus Restaurant, an absolute highlight of any holiday in Santorini.

Santorini has a longer season, running from April to November, with more activities for the winter months. It has some stunning wineries to explore and taste unique Greek wines. 

Hikes take you along the caldera edge while sailing trips allow you to see the island from a different perspective.

Mykonos

Mykonos is more famous for it’s beaches and nightlife. However, it still has a special romantic feel and if you’re not looking to party, you can easily leave the island without having seen any of it.

The views in Mykonos are less breathtaking, although if you find the right spot, you can experience some really special scenery, such as the five giant windmills on the edge of the town.

Mykonos town is bigger than Oía, meaning it feels less packed with tourists. For me, wandering around Mykonos Town offered more beautiful spots than Oía. Mykonos Town is a true labyrinth, you will get lost, but in doing so, you will also discover some special corners of white washed streets covered in Bourgainvillea. 

Mykonos has a growing number of luxury hotels. I stayed at Boheme Mykonos, on the edge of Mykonos Town, a small Greek paradise within a short walk of Mykonos Town.

Mykonos has more sandy beaches, with crystal clear waters that are great for swimming. 

Santorini or Mykonos?

If you’re looking for romance, views, sunsets, hikes, fine dining and wineries, Santorini is the island for you.

If what you’re looking for is more beaches and nightlife, then go for Mykonos.

Both Santorini and Mykonos have international airports flying in and out of London as well as other European cities. A ferry between them takes around 3 hours, so if you just can’t decide, why not have the best of both by flying into one and out of the other.