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. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of Santorini 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. See Santorini travel costs.

Windsor

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

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
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • 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 food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Windsor is more popular for its museums and attractions 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

Santorini is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Santorini. Popular foods on this island include fava, Greek salad, and kofta.

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 beach. 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

Santorini and Windsor both have notable historical old towns that attract visitors.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Santorini. The historic towns of Fira and Oia are the two most popular with visitors, although they have become more built up and less historic over the past few decades. Historical areas are still found within these towns mixed in with restaurants, shops, and hotels set among the beautiful cliff-side views.

Windsor offers a nice historic old town area. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.


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 More Beautiful?

Santorini
Windsor

Santorini and Windsor are somewhat similar when it comes to the fantastic scenery.

Many visitors also come to Santorini because of it's amazing beauty. It has striking blue water and contrasting white buildings. It is the place many travelers dream of visiting for its picturesque setting.

You'll find world class beauty in Windsor as well. The highlight is Windsor Castle, but there are many beautiful parks and gardens around town as well.


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.

Families should spend more time in Santorini than Windsor. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Santorini, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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?

Santorini is a small town with plenty to do. 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.

You'll find food and museums around the town of Windsor. 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?

Santorini might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the touristy small town of Windsor. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the royal town of Windsor. 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. Santorini is a small town where visitors enjoy the 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 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 2-Week Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Windsor or Santorini?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Santorini Prices
    Greece Prices
    Windsor Prices
    UK Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Santorini 250
    Windsor 204

The average daily cost (per person) in Santorini is €250, while the average daily cost in Windsor is €204. 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 118
    Windsor 80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Santorini 236
    Windsor 160
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 35
    Windsor 75

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Santorini

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

  • Helicopter Transfer between Mykonos & Santorini: $6,138
  • Private Transfers from/to Santorini Port (Athinios) to/from Oia: $108
  • Santorini Private Airport Transfer : $29
  • Santorini Private Roundtrip Transfer from/to Airport,Port & Hotel: $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • Southampton: Private transfer to London via Windsor Castle: $337
  • Heathrow Airport: Private Transfer to Windsor: $47

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 96
    Windsor 77

Typical Food Prices in Windsor

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


  • Morning Tea
    2.86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Santorini 35
    Windsor 30

Tours and Activities in Santorini

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

  • Magical Santorini Highlights Private Tour: $120
  • Ferry Tickets between Santorini and Crete Heraklion: $121
  • Santorini Caldera Cruise with Greek Meal, Open-Bar & Sunset Views: $155
  • Santorini Classic Highlights and Sightseeing Private Tour: $177
  • Santorini's Story. Insta and TikTok Experience. Private tour : $203
  • Santorini Unlocked: Private Tour with Local Guide & Driver: $203
  • Private Oia and Ammoudi Sunset Experience: $203
  • Private Santorini Sunset Picnic Experience: $203
  • Santorini Private Tour for Wine Enthusiasts: $215
  • Santorini Shopping Therapy: Style & Tradition Tour: $215
  • Private Experience in Santorini with Guide in Spanish: $269

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: $15
  • 3 Hour Private Tour of Windsor Town and Castle: $231
  • Golden Tours Windsor Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour: $27
  • History’s Roll Call: A Self-Guided Tour of Eton and its College: $7.99
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $46
  • LEGOLAND® Adventure Golf: $14
  • London: Royal Windsor Afternoon Tea Bus Tour: $66
  • London: Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath Guided Tour with Entry: $149
  • Private Guide (Walking Tour of Windsor & Eton): $269
  • Private Walking Tour of Windsor with Award Winning Guide: $266
  • Private Windsor Dark Side Walking Tour: $170
  • Private Windsor Walking Tour with Local Guide: $170

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Santorini 25
    Windsor 8.63

Sample the Local Flavors in Santorini

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

  • Santorini Highlights Small-Group Tour with Wine Tasting option: $90
  • Private Wine Tasting-Wine Museum- Snacks: 2, 3 or 4 Wineries: $194
  • Private Wine Tour in Santorini - Greece: $203


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Santorini and Windsor, we can see that Santorini is more expensive. And not only is Windsor much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Windsor would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Windsor and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Santorini would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Santorini than you might in Windsor.

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.