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Santorini is one of the most famous destinations in the world. For many people, including families, the island often features high on the bucket list of places to visit.
If you are planning a trip to this stunning island and are wondering if it is advisable to bring a stroller for your baby, here is everything you need to know, whether it is too crowded, why it is a challenge, and what other better alternatives you have.
Crowding is still an issue even in 2025, especially during peak summer when Santorini is at its busiest. Cruise ships can bring thousands of passengers in a single day, making it hard for parents with strollers to navigate through the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds on the uneven paths.
The Shoulder Seasons are far more manageable. At least you won’t have to battle through throngs of tourists. During Winter, many hotels and restaurants close, but you can still enjoy the views and quiet time. In terms of space, this time is stroller-friendly. The main drawback is that the island feels sleepy, and services are limited.
The crowds are not the only challenge parents face in Santorini. The island is built on steep cliffs, and most of the popular towns, like Oia and Fira, are perched high above the caldera. Many hotels, cafes, and restaurants are also accessed via staircases rather than flat entrances.
That means countless steps, narrow alleyways, and terraces connected by slopes rather than wide pavements. So, even without the crowds, pushing a stroller through these areas is extremely difficult.
Strollers make travel easier for both parents and the kids, but in Santorini, they might be more of a challenge than a convenience. If you are set on visiting with young children, you may want to consider alternatives such as:
Baby carriers or slings - These are by far the easiest way to move around, especially in Oia or Fira. They free up your hands and make stairs far less stressful.
Compact travel buggies - If you absolutely need a stroller, opt for a lightweight, foldable model that you can carry up and down steps when necessary. Larger prams will be more of a burden than a help.
Choose easily accessible areas - Some parts of the island are easier than others. For example, areas near the beaches are much more stroller-friendly compared to cliffside towns.
Time your visits - Visit Oia or Fira early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the peak cruise ship crowds.
Be flexible - Even with good planning, there will be moments when you might need to change or adjust things.
Santorini is a popular destination and still crowded, especially in peak seasons. The island’s layout and steps always pose challenges for prams and strollers, and the crowds of tourists every day make it even tougher.
But this does not mean that it is off limits for families. If you are travelling with kids, planning is key. Try to visit during off-peak seasons, choose stroller-friendly areas, and use carriers instead of heavy strollers.
We are a family of 4 - mother, father and two children. Our aim is to travel the world and review all travel opportunities to help other families.
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