Santorini, with its iconic white-washed buildings, blue-domed churches, and breathtaking sunsets, has become one of the most coveted travel destinations in the world. But after visiting the island, I can’t help but feel that its overwhelming popularity has overshadowed the very charm that once made it special. Santorini has become overcrowded and, frankly, overrated.
First, let me acknowledge the undeniable beauty of the island. Santorini’s unique caldera views are undeniably stunning, and the sight of the sun dipping into the Aegean Sea can evoke a sense of awe. But once you’ve seen the postcard-perfect views, it quickly becomes apparent that Santorini is no longer the serene escape it once was. The island is overrun with tourists at almost every hour of the day, especially during the peak season. Streets are packed with people, making it nearly impossible to enjoy the beauty without feeling like you’re in the middle of a human zoo. I found myself navigating through crowds more than I did actually appreciating the scenery.
The problem isn’t just the sheer number of people—it’s the fact that the infrastructure can’t handle such massive tourism. The roads are narrow and winding, and traffic jams are common, even in the most remote parts of the island. The once quaint, quiet villages of Oia and Fira are now saturated with tourists, and many businesses have shifted focus from providing authentic experiences to capitalizing on the crowds. Boutique shops that once offered local, handcrafted goods have been replaced with stores selling generic souvenirs. It’s hard to find the kind of authenticity that many travelers once sought on this island.
In addition, Santorini has become remarkably expensive. What once might have been a more affordable Mediterranean destination is now comparable to the priciest corners of Europe. A simple meal at a restaurant with a view can set you back significantly, and I found myself paying a premium for everything from food to basic services. While I understand that tourism drives the local economy, the inflationary prices are hard to ignore, especially when much of what you’re paying for is the name “Santorini” rather than the actual experience.
Let’s also talk about the so-called “world-famous sunset.” Yes, it’s beautiful—but so are sunsets all around the world. The issue is that everyone knows this, which means every night, hordes of tourists flood to the best vantage points to watch the sunset. The experience is less about appreciating nature and more about trying to stake out a good spot for the perfect photo. I found myself in a crowd of strangers, all clamoring for the same view, and it completely ruined the magic of the moment. The sunset became more of a spectacle than a serene experience.
Santorini’s charm, in my opinion, has been diluted by mass tourism. The island is no longer the intimate, hidden gem it once was. Instead, it’s a marketing machine, constantly pushing its postcard image without delivering on the quiet, reflective getaway that many people expect when they dream of the Greek Isles. If you’re looking for genuine local culture, authentic experiences, and peaceful surroundings, Santorini may no longer be the place to find them. While it’s undeniably beautiful, it’s hard to ignore how overrated and overcrowded the island has become.
