A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Santorini vs. Windsor for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Santorini or Windsor?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Santorini or Windsor, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Santorini

Santorini is a historic, romantic, and stunning island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Windsor

Windsor is a touristy, beautiful, and royal town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, museums, and nightlife.

Santorini and Windsor: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle


Is there more to do in Santorini or Windsor?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Santorini than Windsor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Santorini is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Windsor is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm. Santorini is more touristy than Windsor and is popular for its beautiful volcanic beaches, stunning natural beauty, and breathtaking sunsets over the whitewashed villages. Also, Santorini is famous for The Caldera and Volcano of Santorini. Windsor is well known for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world.

How is Santorini different from Windsor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Windsor and Santorini. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Santorini or Windsor?

Santorini
Windsor

Windsor is a great town for its historical sights. Also, Santorini is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Windsor can be an interesting and educational experience. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Santorini. One of the most impressive historical sights is Akrotiri Archaeological Site. The island has many archeological sites as well as the Archeological Museum in Fira.


Is the Food Better in Santorini or Windsor? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Santorini
Windsor

Dining out at restaurants in both Santorini and Windsor can be an enjoyable experience.

Santorini has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Popular foods on this island include fava, Greek salad, and kofta.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Windsor area. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Is Santorini or Windsor Better for Nightlife?

Santorini
Windsor

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find notable options in both Santorini and Windsor.

If you're looking for night time activities Santorini has a few options to choose from. It is one of the calmer, more romantic islands in Greece. For the best nightlife, you'll want to stay near Fira.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Windsor. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Is Santorini or Windsor Better for Resorts?

Santorini
Windsor

Santorini is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Windsor is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Santorini is a great choice. The resorts range from all-inclusive options to resorts with a more local feel. The island is one of the most romantic of the Greek Islands, and the resorts are no exception.

Windsor is not a resort destination.


Is Santorini or Windsor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Santorini
Windsor

Santorini is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Windsor is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Santorini has a few good snorkeling spots. Some of the best snorkeling places are found at Red Beach, White Beach, and the less accessible Kambia. One of the island's best diving spots is Caldera Beach.

Windsor is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Santorini or Windsor Better for Beaches?

Santorini
Windsor

Santorini is a popular place for the beache. However, Windsor is not a beach destination.

Santorini is a good option for a beach vacation. The island has many beaches, most of which are made of black pebbly sand that are a result of the island's volcanic history. Popular beaches include Perissa Beach, Kamari Beach, and Perivolos Beach.

Windsor is not a beach destination.

Is Santorini or Windsor Better for its Old Town?

Santorini
Windsor

Windsor is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, Santorini does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Windsor. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Santorini does not have a historic old town.


Is Santorini or Windsor Better for Hiking?

Santorini
Windsor

Santorini is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Windsor is not a hiking destination.

Santorini is a good destination for hiking. The best hiking trails on the island pass by quaint villages and offers stunning ocean views. You can also hike along the edge of a volcano.

Windsor is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Santorini or Windsor?

Santorini
Windsor

Santorini is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Santorini is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Towns around the island are filled with clothing and jewelry boutiques as well as many unique Greek shopping experiences.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Santorini or Windsor Better for Families?

Santorini
Windsor

Santorini and Windsor are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Santorini offers lots of family activities. It is a calmer destination than many of the Greek Islands. While it's a great place to relax with kids, the beaches aren't as good as they are on some of the other islands. Most families hang out in Kamari and Perissa Beach.

Windsor is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.


Is Santorini or Windsor Better for Couples?

Santorini
Windsor

Santorini is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Santorini makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It is a dream honeymoon destination that is famous for its picturesque setting and luxury resorts. For many couples, this is a top pick for a romantic trip to the Greek Isles.

Windsor is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

Is Santorini or Windsor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santorini
Windsor

Santorini is a popular place for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Santorini. The island has its share of 5 star resorts, but if you head a few streets in you'll find some surprisingly affordable accommodation. Backpackers are welcomed on the island and beaches are free, so it's possible to get by on a relatively low budget.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Santorini or Windsor Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Santorini
Windsor

Santorini and Windsor both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Santorini offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system, KTEL Santorini Buses, that runs 23 buses during the summer months but only a small fraction of that operate during the winter months.

Windsor has a few public transit options. There is a bus system around town.


Is Santorini or Windsor a more walkable city?

Santorini
Windsor

Windsor is a great town for its high level of walkability. Also, Santorini is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its ease of walking around.

Windsor is a very walkable town. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

Santorini is a somewhat walkable island. Many towns on the island are walkable, including Fira, but the actual island is too large to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Santorini Worth Visiting? and Is Windsor Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Windsor or Santorini?

How long in Santorini or Windsor?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Santorini or Windsor to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Santorini than Windsor because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Santorini, and 1-2 days is enough time in Windsor.

Couples should spend more time in Santorini than Windsor. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Santorini that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santorini than Windsor if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Santorini.


  • How many days in Santorini or Windsor? Ideal Length of Stay
    Santorini 3-7 
    Windsor 1-2

One day in Santorini or Windsor?

In Santorini, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Even though Windsor is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Windsor has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Santorini or Windsor?

In Santorini, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Windsor is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Santorini or Windsor?

Santorini is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Santorini has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Windsor is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Santorini or Windsor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santorini. In Santorini, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Windsor is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Greece, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Windsor or Santorini?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Santorini is €175, while the average daily cost in Windsor is €175. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Santorini and Windsor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Santorini 93
    Windsor 82
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Santorini 186
    Windsor 164
Compare Hotels in Santorini and Windsor

Looking for a hotel in Santorini or Windsor? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Santorini


Hotels in Windsor


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Santorini Hotel Prices and Windsor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Santorini 28
    Windsor 77

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Santorini

Also for Santorini, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Skip Cable Car! Santorini Shore Excursion with Boat Transfer: $129
  • 24h Luxury Santorini Transfer.Arrival/Departure one way: $76
  • Arrival Private Transfer Santorini Airport JTR or Port to Santorini by Minibus: $46
  • Arrival Private Transfer Santorini Airport JTR or Port to Santorini by Sprinter: $32
  • Blue Dome And Oia Sunset Small Group Transfer: $37
  • Blue Dome and Oia Sunset Small Group Transfer: $38
  • Departure Private Transfer Santorini to Santorini Airport JTR by Sedan Car: $23
  • Departure Private Transfer Santorini to Santorini Airport JTR or Port by Van: $32
  • Departure Private Transfer Santorni to Santorini Airport JTR or Port by Sprinter: $46
  • Departure Shared Transfer in Santorini Island: $22
  • Departure Transfer To Santorini Port: $33
  • Economy Roundtrip Transfer Santorini Airport ( Max 4 stop ): $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56

Is it cheaper to fly into Santorini or Windsor?

Prices for flights to both Windsor and Santorini change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Santorini 48
    Windsor 46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Santorini

For Santorini, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Romantic Sunset Caldera Cruise with Dinner: $70
  • Santorini Caldera: Sunset Cruise with Dinner: $70
  • Volcanic Sunset Cruise with Dinner: $80
  • Catamaran Tour with BBQ Dinner, Drinks, and Music: $91
  • Volcano and Hot Springs Sunset Dinner Cruise: $96
  • Cooking Class in Traditional cave house in Santorini!: $120
  • Sunset Cruise with Swim Stops, Dinner, and Drinks: $120
  • Fira: 4-Hour Walking Food Tour With Tastings: $123
  • Half-Day Sunset Wine Tasting Tour in Santorini with dinner: $123
  • Luxury Sunset Cruise with Dinner & Open Bar: $128
  • Sunset Sea Kayak with Light Dinner: $128
  • Hands on Cooking Class with a Chef: $134

Typical Food Prices in Windsor

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Windsor:


  • Morning Tea
    2.92

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Santorini 36
    Windsor 31

Tours and Activities in Santorini

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Santorini.

  • Authentic A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Oia: $6.99
  • Megalochori: Lost Atlantis 9D Experience Museum Entry Ticket: $15
  • Skip the Line Lost Atlantis Experience Ticket: $15
  • E-Ticket to Akrotiri with Audio Tour on your Phone: $15
  • Akrotiri Archaeological Site Entry Ticket: $16
  • Refundable Ticket for Akrotiri Archaeological Site : $20
  • Santorini Volcano and Hot Springs Cruise Tour from Fira Old Port: $27
  • Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs Visit: $28
  • Santorini Caldera Cruise Tour (Volcano, Hot Springs, Thirassia): $33
  • Santorini Volcano Tour: $37
  • Santorini Volcano & Hot Springs Tour : $40
  • Santorini Volcano Half Day Tour: $44

Tours and Activities in Windsor

Here are a few actual costs in Windsor for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • 3 Hour Private Tour in Windsor Old Town and Castle: $191
  • From London: Half-Day Trip to Windsor with Castle Tickets: $111
  • From Southampton: Bath and Windsor Tour with London Drop-Off: $230
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • Private Tour Windsor, Eton & Hampton Court: $650
  • Private Windsor Town & Guided Castle Walking Tour: $350
  • Private Windsor Walking Tour: $146
  • Royal Windsor & Stonehenge Private Tour: $1,998
  • Royal Windsor Castle Tour Private including tickets: $362
  • Stonehenge and Windsor Castle Tour from London With Entry Tickets: $126

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Santorini 26
    Windsor 8.82

Sample the Local Flavors in Santorini

Also in Santorini, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Half Day Simply Santorini Tour with Wine Tasting: $60
  • Top Sights Day Trip, Wine Tasting, & Oia Sunset: $63
  • Fira Town Walking Tour with Wine Tasting: $75
  • Top Sights of Santorini with Wine Tasting and Sunset in Oia: $75
  • Notos Day Tour through History & Wine Tasting: $98
  • Santorini 4 Hour Private Oia Tour & Wine Tasting : $105
  • Wine Tour with Sunset in Oia: $106
  • Santorini Highlights Small-Group Tour with Wine Tasting from Fira: $109
  • 5 towns in 5 hours: Santorini Most Popular Tour with Wine tasting: $117
  • Wine Tour Santorini: $118
  • Wine tasting and Carving lesson in Santorini: $131
  • Santorini 4-Hour Private Tour including Wine Tasting, Shore Excursion: $136


When comparing the travel costs between Santorini and Windsor, we can see that Windsor is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Santorini Expensive? and Is Windsor Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Santorini or Windsor?

Santorini has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Santorini and Windsor, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.