The Queer Traveller’s Guide to Santorini
A Guide to Intentional Travel, Celebration & Connection
Santorini is often imagined in photographs: whitewashed villages, volcanic cliffs, and sunsets that draw applause. But its true character reveals itself slowly—through local generosity, early-morning quiet, and the sense that here, life is distilled down to the essential.
This guide offers a practical approach to travel and celebration in Santorini—grounded in thoughtful planning, local knowledge, and care for travellers who want to experience the island on their own terms.
Planning with Intention
Whether you're planning a proposal in Santorini, a destination engagement, or a honeymoon that reflects your love story, intentional planning is key.
Travel and celebration should feel safe, affirming, and easeful—without the need to justify who you are. When choosing a photographer in Greece, look for someone who offers:
- Transparent, inclusive communication
- Respect for your pronouns, identity, and privacy
- Experience working with LGBTQ+ couples without tokenising or reducing them to a narrative
The best partnerships are collaborative, not performative. I work closely with every couple to ensure the entire process—from first email to final gallery—feels supportive and true to you.
Whether you're proposing on a cliffside or planning a quiet honeymoon session, I’m here to help you feel grounded, seen, and completely at ease in front of the camera.
You don’t need to explain yourself. The right people will understand you from the start.
Santorini vs. Mykonos for the Queer Traveler
Mykonos is vibrant, extroverted, and full of nightlife. It’s ideal for travellers looking for beach clubs, all-day parties, and performance-forward experiences.
Santorini, by contrast, offers a slower pace. It’s more private and spacious—ideal for connection, reflection, and milestone moments. While both islands are welcoming, Santorini offers something quieter: space to be, rather than be seen.
Engagements, Proposals & Honeymoons
There’s something elemental about choosing Santorini for a milestone moment. The island is both timeless and intimate—built for presence, not performance. Whether it’s an engagement, proposal, or honeymoon, Santorini invites you to slow down and fully inhabit the moment.
Couples come here for more than the views. They come for space—space to feel, to decide, to show up fully and unapologetically. To hold hands at sunset. To be authentic in how they love, and in how they choose to mark it.
As a gay photographer based in Santorini, I’ve spent years learning the rhythms of this island and the people who come to it. My approach is quiet and intuitive, rooted in respect and curiosity. I don’t just take photographs—I hold space. I notice what’s real: the laugh you didn’t mean to share, the grip of a hand during a pause, the way you look at each other when you forget the camera is there.
I’m not here to pose you. I’m here to witness you.
Whether you’re planning a proposal or a thoughtfully curated honeymoon, I bring an understanding of light, landscape, and lived experience. My role is not to interrupt, but to move with you—discreetly, intentionally, and with care.
Planning the Moment: Inclusive LGBTQ+ Photographer in Santorini for Proposals & Honeymoons
Proposals:
- Look for sunrise or early morning light at Oia or the off-the-beaten path of Skaros Rock.
- Private moments work best when simple. Consider a walk, a shared breakfast, or a surprise during a romantic photo session.
Honeymoons:
- Imerovigli is known for its views and peaceful atmosphere.
- Leave space in your itinerary for one day without plans—those unscripted hours often turn into the most honest, memorable moments.
Style Guide:
- Wear what makes you feel like yourself—grounded, confident, and relaxed. Natural fabrics like linen and cotton breathe well in the island climate. Earth tones, off-whites, and soft pastels photograph beautifully in Santorini’s natural light. Avoid busy patterns or logos; timeless over trendy always works. Bring one outfit that moves with the wind—something flowy or open—if you want that cinematic feel. Most importantly, feel at ease in what you wear. That shows up in every frame.
Presence and Belonging
Is Santorini gay-friendly? The short answer is yes—most LGBTQ+ travellers find Santorini welcoming. While Greece as a whole can be more traditional in some areas, Santorini’s tourism-centred culture is open, inclusive, and accustomed to diversity.
If you're wondering whether gay couples are accepted in Santorini: absolutely. Holding hands, showing affection, and dressing as you feel comfortable are common and generally respected. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and nonjudgmental.
If you're planning an LGBTQ+ honeymoon or same-sex proposal in Santorini, you’ll find space for both privacy and self-expression. Many couples describe the island as peaceful, affirming, and surprisingly freeing.
Most travelers report a sense of ease throughout the island—from sunset walks in Imerovigli to dinners in Fira. As with anywhere, quieter areas may invite a little more awareness, but trust your comfort level. This is your trip, your celebration, your moment.
You know what safety and authenticity feel like in your body. Let that guide you.
Places, Vibes & Where to Stay
Vlychada is Santorini’s unofficial gay beach. It’s raw, windswept, and a little off the radar—which makes it perfect. The cliffs look like sculpture. The water is clear. There’s space to breathe, kiss, sunbathe, or swim without second-guessing. Bring snacks, plenty of water, and a towel. Shade is minimal, but the vibe makes up for it.
Santorini doesn’t have a designated gay village or nightlife scene—and maybe that’s the charm. This isn’t a place where you need a label to be welcomed. Most places are warm, open, and unbothered by who you’re holding hands with.
Still, I have my haunts. If you’re after a good coffee, dinner spot, or a place to sit and watch the light change, reach out. I’m always happy to share the low-key gems.
The caldera views are cinematic. You’ll pay for them, but if you want that once-in-a-lifetime energy, it’s worth it.
Traditional villages like Pyrgos or Megalochori offer something different—quiet mornings, friendlier prices, and a sense that you’re part of the island, not just passing through.
There’s no wrong choice. Just a question of mood.
Packing
The Greek sun always wins. SPF isn’t optional—and if you forget it, every pharmacy on the island has you covered.
Light layers go a long way. Natural fabrics like linen and cotton let you breathe, move, and blend into the rhythm of slow island days. Pack one piece that feels cinematic—something that catches the wind just right. Think Summer Lovers or Vicky Christina Barcelona. Maybe it’s that oversized button-down you borrowed (and never returned).
- Footwear should work hard but look soft. You’ll want something you can walk in—cobblestones don’t care how pretty your shoes are.
- A reusable water bottle and a compact day bag will make daily wandering easier.
- Swimwear is a given. But if you’re planning a photo session, consider how your tan lines might work with your outfit. A little planning goes a long way.
Keep it simple. Let the place do the styling.
Before You Go
You don’t need a reason to celebrate. You already are one.
If Santorini is calling, come as you are—soft, bold, in love, figuring it out. There’s space here for all of it.
I’m always honoured to witness these moments. If this guide resonated with you, I’d love to connect.
Maps, personalised recommendations, and my full list of favourite spots are available exclusively to my booked clients.