Table of Contents
Last updated on March 4th, 2023
Santorini is one of the most picturesque Greek destinations. The iconic blue domes and white clifftop houses of Oia have made Santorini famous, but there are so many other amazing things the island has to offer.
From luxurious hotels, crystal-clear water, top-notch restaurants, and winding pedestrian lanes, Santorini is one of the prettiest places in Greece. Most people think to only stay in Santorini for a couple of days, but I highly recommend spending three days in Santorini if you can.
Three days is enough time to see most of what the island offers while still giving you enough time to relax.
This Santorini 3 days itinerary outlines the best way to explore the island during your visit, with lots of options on how to spend each day.
Overview of Santorini 3 Day Itinerary
This itinerary details how you could spend three days in Santorini. It includes various activities around the island that you can easily alter to fit your needs. Since the island is not that large, you can easily explore most of Santorini’s top attractions in just one visit. This itinerary also includes restaurant recommendations and travel tips to make your experience as easy as possible.
Day 1: Oia – Start your day at Oia Castle, visit the blue domes, explore Oia, sunset, and have dinner at Ammoudi Bay.
Day 2: Explore the Island – Akrotiri Archeological and lighthouse, Red Beach, Black Sand Beach, Pfofiti Ilias Monastery, and Pyrgos
Day 3: Enjoy the Sights – Hike or drive from Oia to Fira (Imerovigli, Skaros Rock, Three Bells of Fira, Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral), wine tour and tasting, Caldera cruise.
Helpful Information About Santorini
Best time to Visit Santorini
Shoulder-Season
May and early June, as well as late September and October, are probably the best times to go. These months are less crowded and have better accommodation rates and possible flight deals. Since most restaurants and attractions open their doors back in April, waiting until May helps ensure you will not run into closed businesses.
Peak-Season
July to Early September is the most crowded time. The weather during this time is warm and sunny and perfect for swimming in the cold turquoise water. Due to the popularity of visiting Santorini during this time, the prices for everything skyrocket.
Off-Season
The winter months are off-season in Santorini. Many locals return home to the mainland during this time and will return in March or April to open their businesses up for the tourist season. Although it is possible to visit during this time of year, many things will be closed, and the weather will be quite windy with rain.
How to Get to Santorini
Flying
The Thira Airport is located on the island’s east side and is about a 25-minute drive to the town of Oia. Flying is an excellent option if you plan to visit farther out islands such as Rhodes or Crete. Many people also like flying directly to Santorini from nearby European countries such as Italy. Most of the time, you will have a layover in Athens before flying the rest of the way to Santorini.
How to get from the airport to your accommodation
The easiest thing to do is rent a car from the airport during your time in Santorini. Although places like Oia only have pedestrian streets, there are parking lots on the edge of the village for you to keep your car.
If you don’t plan on exploring much of the island on your own, the fastest way to get to your accommodation is by taxi. Plenty of taxis are available near the airport if you need one. Taxis from the airport to Oia cost around 35 and take about 25 minutes. .
The airport also has a bus service that will take you to Fira. From Fira, you can hop a second bus to Oia; however, this can be quite a hassle and eat up a large portion of your day. Taxis cost around 20 from the airport to Firda and take 15 minutes.
Ferry
If you are hopping from island to island, ferries are another popular way to travel. Seajets is a great Ferry company connecting Santorini to most other islands. Ferries are a cheaper way of traveling but can take longer than flying.
For example, the ferry from Athens takes about 5-6 hours, and from nearby islands, around 2 hours. For that reason, traveling from Athens to Mykonos before visiting Santorini is the most popular route.
From April to September, you will be able to find several ferries per day traveling from Athens to Santorini and back. The best way to check rates and timetables is by visiting FerryScanner.com. This website cross-references dozens of ferry companies to find you the best rates.
TRAVEL TIP: Let your hotel know when you plan on coming. Many will meet you on the edge of town and help you carry your luggage to your room (Oia is only pedestrian streets, so you will have to haul your suitcase a ways)
How to Get Around Santorini
Scooter & ATV
The best way to get around is by renting a scooter or ATV. The island is only 16km long and takes around 45 minutes to go from one end to the other. In addition, scooters and ATVs are inexpensive and do not require an International Driver’s Permit.
We used Moto Manos for our rental. The employees there were beneficial, and it is conveniently located near the airport. There are dozens of other rental companies around the island as well!
Rent a Car
If you plan on staying for more than a couple of days and want to venture outside the main villages, a rental car is the best form of transportation. Having your own vehicle allows you to explore any part of the island at your own pace. The roads on Santorini are easy to maneuver, and the island is not hard to explore.
The best way to rent a car is from the port, where you will most likely arrive in Santorini. There are other convenient rental companies at the airport and in the town of Fira. I recommend reserving one well in advance if you visit during the summer months.
TRAVEL TIP: Check with your hotel before you book. Many will be able to schedule one for you and have it brought to you.
Public Transportation
Santorini has an excellent public transportation system, but I would not recommend using it if you want to see sites outside the villages. They are best used in Fira’s main town but connect to other cities such as Oia, Akrotiri, Pyrgos, and Imerovigli. Buses also connect Fira to the airport.
Taxis
Getting a taxi is the most expensive option, but one that may make sense if traveling from the airport to the ferry port. It is the quickest option to get from point A to point B, especially if you plan on staying in a village and not renting a car for your stay. However, if you plan on exploring the island, save some money and grab a rental car right when you arrive in Santorini.
Where to Stay in SantorIni
When deciding where to stay for your 3 days in Santorini, you want to consider the type of experience you want, affordability, and overall travel needs. I recommend staying in Oia for your visit to Santorini and splurging a little on a hotel that overlooks the caldera. There is no place like Oia in the world, so why not make the best of your time there? I promise the price tag is worth the memories.
If you are on a budget, the village of Fira is an alternative option. The accommodations here are less than in Oia, but you still can get caldera views. Fira is also a larger village, so there are many dining options and shops to explore.
Another option is to stay near Karmi Beach or other beaches on the island. Accommodation here will be much more affordable, but you will need your own form of transportation if you want to explore different parts of the island. Staying near Kamari is also a great option if you do not wish to be amidst the hustle and bustle of the larger villages.
Santorini is a popular tourist destination, and accommodations book up quickly. Book your hotel or vacation rental 6-8 months in advance to give yourself more options and cheaper rates.
Katikies Santorini
Katikies suites are the epitome of luxury. Each room has a private terrace overlooking the Aegean Sea. the hotel is located in the heart of Oia but has everything you need if you never want to leave the premises. Facilities include two restaurants, hot tubs, welcome gifts, and an infinity pool.
Luxury Hotel | Check Rates
Pezoules of Oia
We stayed at Pezoules of Oia and would come back again. We had our own private terrace overlooking the Caldera and access to a luxurious infinity pool just steps from our door.
The staff was accommodating and ensured that we had everything we needed. They made our stay as perfect as possible, from complimentary champagne to breakfast on our terrace.
Mid-Range Hotel | Check Rates
Kavalari Hotel
Get the luxurious Aegean Sea views without the price tag. Kavalari Hotel offers rooms with sun terraces and shared patios, just steps from the center of Fira.
Budget Hotel | Check Rates
Want more options?
Check out additional Santorini Hotels and Accommodations.
Day 1 - Santorini 3 Day Itinerary
The first day of your 3 days in Santorini itinerary will be a leisure day exploring the town of Oia. Oia is one of the most picturesque and photographed places in Santorini, with lots to do. However, many people spend their entire time in Oia, relaxing at their hotel pool and dining at some of the town’s upscale restaurants.
Today will be a combination of exploring all the best sites in Oia with some time to relax and enjoy the impeccable Caldera views below.
Oia
You will spend the first day in Santorini around the town of Oia. Oia is where you will find many of the most popular attractions. You will have a chance to explore this side of the island at a slower pace on your first day. If you stay in Oia, you can easily access all of today’s attractions on foot.
Sunrise at Oia Castle (For you early risers!)
Get up early for your chance to see the sunrise from Oia Castle, one of the best viewing spots on the island. The castle dates back to the Renaissance. It was used as a lookout for pirates who used to try and invade the island.
The castle’s ruins remain after an earthquake destroyed it, but you can still explore parts of the structure. Most people come here to view the sunset. Unfortunately, it gets packed with people and can be hard to enjoy fully. If you are a morning person or want to avoid the large sunset crowds, try to come here for sunrise instead.
If you can get up before 8:00 am, you will have the streets almost to yourself. Around 10:00 during the summer months, the cruise ships come in, and the town gets crowded.
Visit the Blue Domes
While you’re up early, take a trip to the Blue Domes for some of the best photos in Santorini. This particular location gets very crowded. There is usually a line down the narrow staircase for a photo opportunity. Going right after sunrise will limit the crowds. The viewing spot can be a little tricky to find, but if you enter it into your GPS, it will take you to the location.
Explore the Town
Oia is one of the most luxurious and unique places in Greece. The views of the caldera are beyond words, and the blue and whitewashed buildings make the town an extraordinary place. Spend some time exploring the narrow streets, venturing into the boutiques, exploring the iconic blue and white churches, and taking in the views. Make sure to stop by the Kastro Oia Houses, windmills, and Church of Panagia Akathistos Hymn during your explorations.
Stop by Atlantis Books
The intriguing bookshop has made quite a name for itself. We were highly disappointed that it was closed the entire time we were in Santorini. That was one of the top places on our bucket list! The charming bookshop is full of unique reads. If you do see it open, make sure to have a look around as you wander the streets of Oia.
Once you have spent the afternoon exploring the streets of Oia, relax on your private terrace or hotel’s infinity pool with a glass of champagne and enjoy the views. Oia is one of the most unique places in the world, and you cannot miss these views. Spend an hour soaking up the sun by the pool before dinner.
Head to Amoudi Bay
In the evening, take a walk down to Amoudi Bay. You can see some of the best views of the sunset from here. Other great viewing spots are Oia Castle and the town of Fira. Just a heads up, these all get very crowded. If you want a more private sunset experience, I recommend grabbing dinner right before sunset so you can watch it while you eat.
The walk from the center of Oia to Amoudi Bay takes about 15-20 minutes and is around 300 steps. You will venture along some steep stone pathways that curve their way down the edge of the cliffside to the water. Stop into some of the shops you encounter on the way.
If you did not get a chance to visit Oia Castle for sunrise, this would be a great time to do so. Oia Castle is about halfway down the cliffside to Amoudi Bay. It is the perfect place to take a short break and enjoy the views of the water before going the rest of the way down.
Many people do not tell you that the lower part of the walk is not the most glamorous. Donkey rides are available, so the streets are dirty, and you must be careful where you step! Comfortable shoes are a good choice for the climb down. That aside, it was worth the walk down and the long hike back up.
**Please don’t ride the donkeys! If you genuinely don’t feel like walking back up the hill, a road goes around Oia to Amoudi Bay. Call a taxi, and it will take you back up for almost no money.
Dinner and Sunset
Once you’ve made it down to Amoudi Bay, several tavernas are on the emerald water. I recommend you try Amoudi Fish Tavern. Our meal was delicious, and we could grab a seat near the water. The restaurants also have multi tears of seating up the side of the red cliffs. It is one of the most unique outdoor restaurants you will experience in Greece. Best of all, you get front-row seats to the sunset. They get booked up quickly, so make reservations well in advance.
After dinner, make your way slowly back up to the center of Oia. Grab a refreshing drink or gelato on the way back. You will need it after walking up all those steps. From there, spend the rest of the night exploring the streets. Many of the shops stay open pretty late.
Not ready to call it a night yet? There are several great late-night bars in Oia. Fino is one of the best places to go for cocktails. They have a laid-back atmosphere and the best drinks around. Hassapiko is a lively bar and restaurant that is open from breakfast until late at night.
Day 2 - Santorini 3 Day Itinerary
You will spend the second day of your 3 days in Santorini itinerary exploring the other side of the island. Today, you will explore some of the island’s historical sites and spend time relaxing on the beach.
The best way to get around today will be by renting an ATV or car. The roads in Santorini are pretty easy to navigate, and everything in today’s itinerary is close together.
Breakfast in Oia
Get an early start to beat the crowds that form early morning. We had complimentary breakfast at our cave hotel, so we took full advantage of the delicious food with our caldera view.
If you would rather venture into town, grab a quick bite to eat and coffee and begin your day exploring all the narrow alleyways and charming stores in Oia. Melenio and Vitrin Café Creperie are delightful alternatives for morning coffee and pastry.
Akrotiri Archaeological Site
The first stop for the day is the ancient city of Akrotiri. Since it is on the other side of the island, you will want to rent a car for the day. The Minoans first inhabited the city, which became an important port city around 4,000 BC.
The same volcano that created the magical caldera of Santorini was the one that destroyed the town. Due to its history, it is nicknamed the Pompeii of Greece.
The city of Akrotiri was not just a large port city. It was also a thriving civilization. Ongoing excavations have found signs of drainage systems, trade items, and large multi-level homes that were rare to see during that time. In addition, a couple of large buildings are entirely excavated, which you can walk into.
If you have some time and are interested in learning more about the archeological site, a tour guide is a good option. There is much to see, and though there are information signs, you would learn much more with the help of a guide. General admission is 12 per person if you want to stop by and explore independently.
Visit the Red Beach
The next stop is the gorgeous Red Beach of Santorini. The entrance to the Red Beach is around 1 mile from the Akrotiri Archeological Site. A free gravel parking lot is at the top of the beach entrance. From there, you will walk for about 10 minutes to get to the beach itself.
Locals know it as Kokkini Paralia, but the beach was nicknamed after its deep red sand and large rusty red cliffside caused by the volcanic rock on the island. It is one of the most colorful and unique beaches around. You can choose to climb all the way down to the water for a swim or explore the cliffside before heading back to town for lunch. The Red Beach is also one of the best places on Santorini for snorkeling.
Grab Lunch
Stop by Misteli in Akrotiri. This small restaurant has some of the freshest Mediterranean dishes for excellent prices. Misteli is also not a touristy spot but well-loved by locals. You will need to try their chicken pita entrée. Such a simple dish, but absolutely delicious. If you rather lunch with a view, there are several tavernas on Perissa Beach, which is your next stop.
Akrotiri Lighthouse
An optional stop is the Akrotiri Lighthouse. The 1890s lighthouse is one of the first in Greece. It sits high up on a cliff overlooking the water below. If you are already around Akrotiri and have some time, the lighthouse is a beautiful scenic viewpoint. Many people like to come up here at night to watch the sunset. It does get busy during that time of day, but it is still not as crowded as the viewing spots in Fira and Oia. If you are close by, it is a beautiful place to stop.
Relax on Perissa Black Sand Beach
The unique beach is covered in shimmery black sand and is one of the most sought-after beaches in Santorini. However, due to the nature of the pebbles, it does get sweltering, so having flip-flops are water shoes is essential to protect your feet. You can also rent sun loungers instead of lying on hard, rocky surfaces.
Perissa Beach has lovely souvenir shops and places to eat and grab drinks. Perissa Beach is also much less expensive than other places on the island, with equally delicious food. Also, there are several fish tavernas if you did not grab lunch in Akrotiri. Finally, Mezedaki is one of the best places to eat in Paris. The restaurant offers traditional Greek cuisine and will bring your food out to you if you decide to rent a lounger instead of eating at a table.
Not hungry? Not a problem; Mezedaki has a great assortment of cocktails. Another excellent place to drink is Tranquilo. They have some of the most refreshing drinks around.
Profit Ilias Monastery
After relaxing at the beach, drive to the Profit Ilias Monastery. The monastery sits on the peak of Mount Pfogitis Ilias. Thankfully, you can drive up the mountain, where you will find plenty of parking. The monastery is free to visit and offers a spectacular view of Santorini. Spend some time exploring one of Santorini’s oldest churches before making your way to the village of Pyrgos, your last stop for the day.
Pyrgos
Your last stop for today is the village of Pyrgos, a short drive from the Profit Ilias Monastery. The preserved town is full of souvenir shops, cafes, and quiet narrow roads. It is also home to the magnificent Pygros Castle. Due to its altitude, you can see the entire island from here.
Pyrgos is the perfect place to visit for an authentic feel of life on Santorini. The maze of whitewashed houses and quaint cafes is a nice change from the hustle and bustle of the larger villages on the island.
You may decide to have dinner here or return to your hotel to wash up before having dinner near your accommodation. If you are staying in Oia, make dinner reservations at Fino. It is one of the most popular restaurants in the town. Roka is another great place to eat in Oia. They serve an assortment of traditional greek dishes and have a great wine list.
If you are interested in high-end dining, Ambrosia is a popular dinner spot. The restaurant sits on the edge of the cliffside with views of the caldera. This is one of the best places to go for a romantic and upscale meal.
Day 3 - Santorini 3 Day Itinerary
Hike from Fira to Oia
One of the most popular things to do is take the scenic hike that connects to two large towns of Fira and Oia. The walk can take between 3 to 5 hours, but it could take longer between pictures, resting points, and stopping to eat. Altogether, the path is about 10 km long, but many people choose to start at different points. If you don’t want to hike the entire way, try starting closer to the town of Fira. The path leading into Fira is one of the most scenic sections.
During the summer months, it gets hot in Santorini. Therefore, the best time to hike is in the morning before the sun gets up. Another option is to drive if you are not up for a hike. Driving is also a good option if you are short on time but want to see some of the main sites along the trail.
- Starting Point in Fira: The Hotel Atlantis is where many people begin in Fira.
- Starting Point in Oia: Bus Stop to Fira starts you off in the center of town.
Google Maps Directions: Download the Map
TRAVEL TIP: Driving from Oia to Fira takes 15-20 minutes. You will still be able to see all the sights on today’s itinerary in a fraction of the time. Driving may be a good option if you plan to do the caldera tour later in the day!
The Town of Imerovigli
If you decide to hike, you will wander through the town of Imerovigli. The high-end village is full of delicious restaurants, shops, and tavernas. Unfortunately, most people do not take the time to visit this place; therefore, it is much less crowded than the villages of Fira and Oia. Therefore, Imerovigli is a perfect place to stop for a quick drink or a small bite to eat.
Skaros Rock
Once you finish exploring Imerovigli, take the climb up to Skaros Rock. Skaros was built in the 15th century and was used as an important fortress during that time. Sitting high on a mountain, it was a great viewing point for keeping lookouts for unwanted guests to Santorini. Unfortunately, all that is left now is the ruins; however, Skaros Rock is probably the top scenic spot on the entire island.
The trail starts at Agios Georgios Chapel and is a treck up some rocky steps to the top. The path can be pretty tricky at some points near the top. Altogether, the hike with add another 1 hour to your day. The views of magnificent, even if you don’t go all the way to the top.
Village of Fira
Fira is another popular village in Santorini with several things to see. First, stop by the iconic Three Bells of Fira. The bells are one of the most photographed places in Santorini and will be on your way to the village of Fira.
From the bells, it will take about 15 minutes to walk to Fira. If you decide to drive, find a parking spot outside the village. Traffic is highly congested once you get to Fira, and it Is easier and more scenic to walk the rest of the way.
Next, stop by the large Greek Orthodox Church is such a beautiful building. Its large domes and tall archways are quite the work of art. From the church, take a short walk to the Archaeological Museum of Thera. The museum is home to different objects found through excavations, such as vases, art, sculptures, and other artifacts.
Grab Lunch in Fira
Spend some time wandering around the town and exploring the different galleries and shops. The shops here will be cheaper than those you find in Oia. So if you plan on getting souvenirs, I would do it here! Once you get hungry, stop in Fira for some lunch. Some great places to eat are Volcano Blue or Tsipouradiko.
Visit the Santorini Vineyards
The perfect way to end your trip to Santorini is to partake in a wine tasting. Santorini is known for its unique wines resulting from the volcanic ash from the island’s volcanic activity. Besides the wine variety, some vineyards’ views are pretty spectacular.
Several wineries are scattered around the island that you can visit on your own or as part of a tour. If you are interested in visiting multiple wineries, a wine tour is your best option. Tours include entrance to each winery and transportation. So just sit back and enjoy the experience without worrying about getting from one place to the other.
My favorite winery in Santorini was Santos Wines. The winery is located high on a hill overlooking the caldera. The views from here are some of the best around. Start your visit with a tour around the winery and learn about the unique way Greek winemakers make their wine. End your tour with wine tasting and lunch on the terrace. Vin Santo is one of the most famous wines coming straight from Santos Wines. This sweet dessert wine is much loved in the Mediterranean and will be one of the wines you try for your tasting.
The winery offers free shipping to multiple countries worldwide, including the United States. So stop by the wine shop before you leave for some bottles to take home with you.
Popular Santorini Wine Tours:
- Santorini Wine Museum Tasting: If you are interested in learning more about Santorini’s wine and the winemaker’s process, you will love this tour. Tickets include audio guides of the museums and wine tasting.
- Santorini Wine Tour: Explore two different Wineries. The tour ends at Sun Spirit Bar in Oia, where you can enjoy uninterrupted views of Santorini’s sunset.
- Half-Day Wine Tour: Tour three Santorini vineyards for tasting and delicious food pairings. For sunset views from the winery, pick the afternoon tour.
TRAVEL TIP: Let your hotel know when you plan on coming. Many will meet you on the edge of town and help you carry your luggage to your room (Oia is only pedestrian streets, so you will have to haul your suitcase a ways)
Take a Bout Tour of the Caldera
End your day on the water with a boat tour. One of the most popular things to do in Santorini is to take a ride out to the caldera. There are several different types of tours you can take there to meet your needs. Santorini has it all between sunset cruises, snorkel expeditions, visiting the hot springs, or taking a luxury catamaran.
Tours get up well in advance, so book before seats run out as soon as possible. The hot springs and sunset cruises are two of the most popular ones.
Swim in the Hot Springs
If you want an adventurous experience, you’ve found it! This tour takes you on a hike to the volcano’s crater, followed by a soothing swim in the hot springs.
This five-hour catamaran cruise takes you on a sightseeing adventure around the island. Stop at some famous locations, such as the hot springs and red beach, where you will have time to enjoy the water and snorkel around. The cruise also includes drinks and a traditional Greek meal.
Conclusion
Santorini offers so many magical things to see and do. This itinerary is a general guide that takes you to the island’s main attractions. Do not feel like you have to do everything, though! So many people come to Santorini to relax, which is perfectly okay! But, no matter what you decide to do, I promise you will want to come back. Santorini is one of my favorite Greek islands and certainly one of the most unique.
Enjoyed this post? Check out some other Greek destinations!
Santorini
- The Greatest Things to do in Oia, Santorini
- Guide to Santorini’s Magical Amoudi Bay
- Mykonos vs. Santorini – A Detailed Comparison
Milos
- The Ultimate Milos, Greece Travel Guide
- The Top 10 Best Beaches in Milos
- 10 Best Restaurants in Milos, Greece
Mykonos
- Mykonos Travel Guide: How to Plan the Perfect Island Getaway
- Mykonos Day Trips: Visit Delos Island
- Mykonos vs. Santorini – A Detailed Comparison
Rhodes
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Travel Planning Resources
BOOK YOUR FLIGHT | Skyscanner is the top search engine for finding and booking flights. They price check over 1,200 travel sites to help you find the best prices.
VIEW ACCOMMODATIONS | For booking hotels and vacation rentals Booking.com is a top resource . They offer some of the cheapest rates and different payment options.
PLAN TRANSPORTATION | Discover Cars is my go-to site when booking rentals. They work with hundreds of companies worldwide to help you find the best car for your needs and budget.
SCHEDULE YOUR TOURS | There are many top companies available in Europe. Get Your Guide is one of the best sites for tours, excursions, and activities. Viator is another terrific website for all types of experiences.
GET TRAVEL INSURANCE | Having travel insurance is always a good idea. World Nomads is one of the top travel insurance companies. It will cover you if you must cancel your trip or if something unexpected happens.
Check out the resource page for additional travel planning resources.
PIn it for Later
