Plan the trip of your dreams to Santorini with the help of our travel experts. From adventures away from civilisation to culinary delights, our Santorini itineraries promise an extraordinary introduction to this Greek paradise.
Crafting the perfect Santorini itinerary requires careful planning to cover the island's diverse attractions. Start by researching and prioritising key attractions such as Oia, Fira and Akrotiri based on personal interests.
Allocate enough time for each activity to fully appreciate the island's charms without rushing. Choose accommodations strategically based on your preferences: sunset views in Oia, bustling Fira, or tranquil spots for peace and quiet holidays.
When planning, don't forget to include iconic sights with off-the-beaten-path activities such as exploring Santorini beaches, visiting wineries and strolling through villages.
Make sure to keep your plan flexible, leaving room for spontaneous discoveries, and respect local customs for a richer cultural experience.
Planning a trip to Santorini? Create a unique itinerary with the help of our Greece local travel experts.
Santorini dinner © Shutterstock
The ideal length of stay in Santorini depends on personal preference, but many recommend staying 3-5 days to capture the essence of the island. For a shorter 1-2 day visit, focus on sunset at Oia, explore Fira, immerse yourself in the archaeological site of Akrotiri and relax on the beaches of Kamari or Perissa.
Extending your stay to 3-4 days allows you to take a boat tour, visit unique beaches such as Red Beach and White Beach, and taste wine at local wineries. If you have 5 or more days, head to little-explored villages, take day trips to neighbouring islands and opt for a more leisurely pace for spontaneous discovery, cultural immersion and authentic experiences.
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Santorini with sunset over Church in Fira Town, Greece © Shutterstock
Being one of the best Greek islands, visiting Santorini is among the best things to do in Greece. Read more about must-see places in this idyllic paradise.
Don't miss the charming village of Oia, with postcard-perfect scenery around every corner. Wander through narrow, winding streets adorned with blue-domed churches and charming boutiques. Soak up the romantic atmosphere, especially during the enchanting sunset over the caldera. Explore cultural attractions such as the Maritime Museum and soak up the atmosphere of Ammoudi Bay.
Relax on the mesmerising black sandy shores of Perissa Beach. Framed by volcanic landscapes, this seaside paradise offers a lively promenade with tavernas and water sports facilities. Soak up the Greek sun, participate in water adventures and enjoy the unique beauty of this coastal gem.
Fira, the bustling capital of Santorini, beckons with cliff-top panoramas and a lively atmosphere. Immerse yourself in history at the Archaeological Museum, enjoy shopping along the edge of the caldera and immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife. Stroll through the charming Old Port and let the dynamic energy of Fira take you over.
Elevate your Santorini experience at Imerovigli, the "balcony of the Aegean". Admire panoramic views of the caldera, wander through the tranquil village and journey through the cliffs of Skaros. Find peace at the historic Skaros Castle, where history and natural beauty converge.
Immerse yourself in the ancient world at the archaeological site of Akrotiri, often referred to as the "Pompeii of the Aegean". Explore the amazingly preserved Minoan ruins, and intricate frescoes and learn the fascinating history of this archaeological treasure.
Discover the unique beauty of Red Beach, where striking red cliffs meet the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea. Laze on the unique red volcanic sand, swim and soak in the breathtaking scenery that defines this one-of-a-kind coastal paradise.
Get the best experience in Santorini by choosing the best time to visit Greece.
Imerovigli, Santorini © Shutterstock
On this 8-day Santorini, Athens and Meteora itinerary you will experience the best of Greece: the culture of Athens, culinary adventures, the wonders of Meteora Monastery and the breathtaking beauty of Santorini. An unforgettable journey awaits you!
Upon arrival in Athens, you will be treated to a private e-bike tour and a culinary tour to explore local neighbourhoods and food stalls.
The following day, a coastal bike tour will introduce you to the beaches of the Athens Riviera. At sunset, a private tour of the Acropolis and Plaka awaits you.
On the third day, head to Meteora to admire the monasteries perched on towering cliffs and explore this cultural gem on a Meteora sightseeing tour.
On the fourth day, you will fly to Santorini. On day five, you'll embark on a full-day Caldera cruise, where you'll explore the island's highlights.
Day six offers a leisurely morning in Santorini, followed by an evening bike tour, and on day seven you'll dive into Santorini's crystal clear waters with scuba diving and snorkelling.
On day eight, your Greek odyssey will be complete and a private transfer will take you to the airport for your return flight to Athens. Read more.
Monastery perched on a rock in Meteora, Greece © Sergey Novikov/Shutterstock
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Paleochori Beach and waves of the Aegean sea © Shutterstock
Our comprehensive 11-day Athens, Milos, Naxos and Santorini itinerary offers a wide range of experiences. Stop in Athens, Milos, Naxos and Santorini and take a day trip to Mykonos. Immerse yourself in the history of the Acropolis, soak up the Cycladic charm of Milos, explore the ancient sites of Naxos and savour sunsets on Santorini.
This itinerary presents a fascinating Greek odyssey, starting in Athens. Immerse yourself in history with a private tour of the Acropolis, exploring ancient myths and sites. On day two, you'll enjoy a leisurely morning and tour the Temple of Poseidon on the Athens Riviera.
On the third day, you'll head to Milos, where for the next two days you'll explore its beaches in your hire car and take part in a full-day boat trip to Kleftiko and its caves. On day six, you'll leave your hire car and travel by speedboat to Naxos for a private culinary tour.
On the seventh day, explore Naxos freely and on the eighth day head to Mykonos and Delos. On day nine, a speedboat will take you to Santorini for a private wine tasting, and on day ten you will embark on a Caldera Classic Cruise. On the eleventh day, a private transfer will take you to the airport for your return to Athens. Read more.
Santorini, Greece © Shutterstock
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Kerkyra, Corfu Island, Greece © Shutterstock
Choose this private 13-day Greek Islands Dream itinerary with accommodation in exquisite hotels. Explore ancient history, savour Mediterranean cuisine and relax in stunning surroundings, creating wonderful memories to last a lifetime.
On the first day, explore the Acropolis and indulge in an exquisite Greek restaurant. Day two will introduce you to the culinary delights of Athens during the Taste Athens Food Walk. On day three, immerse yourself in Greek mythology and history during a guided tour.
On the fourth day, you will fly to Corfu for wine tasting, and on the fifth day, you will discover the island's gastronomy with a private gastronomy tour. Enjoy a day of relaxation on day six, and on day seven fly to Santorini via Athens. On day eight, discover the beauty of Santorini on a Caldera Classic Cruise. On the ninth day, explore Santorini on your own or choose from optional activities to suit your tastes.
On the tenth day, you'll fly to Heraklion in Crete. Learn about Heraklion's rich history and sample Cretan wines on day eleven. On the twelfth day, you'll be treated to a rest or historical tour, and on the thirteenth day, your journey will come to an end when you fly back to Athens and bid farewell to the enchanting Greek islands. Read more.
A fine fresco in Knossos Palace, Crete, Greece © Shutterstock
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Oia Village, Santorini, Greece © Shutterstock
The optimal time to travel to Santorini is in late spring (May - June) or early autumn (September - October), when the island has ideal weather conditions and fewer tourists. Temperatures during this period range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F - 86°F) , making the climate comfortable for outdoor activities and exploration.
By choosing these seasons, you ensure a more intimate experience as the island is less crowded compared to the peak summer months of July and August.
In addition, late spring and early autumn often coincide with local events and festivals, providing an opportunity to immerse yourself in Santorini's vibrant culture. Events such as the Santorini Art Factory Festival, usually held in September, showcase the island's artistic richness.
As well as a more relaxed atmosphere, opting for this time allows for more affordable accommodation and more reasonable prices. Thus, late spring and early autumn become the optimal seasons, offering a harmonious combination of favourable weather, cultural experiences and a relaxed exploration of Santorini's landscapes.
Read more about the best time to visit Greece.
Red Beach in Santorini @ Shutterstock
Getting to Santorini is usually possible by flying into Santorini-Tira Airport (JTR) from major European cities. Another option is to get from Athens to Santorini by ferry from the Athenian ports of Piraeus or Rafina. The island can be travelled by buses, taxis, hire cars and scooters for short distances.
Walking and enjoying the scenic views is also a popular way to explore the narrow streets of the villages. The island's compact size makes it easy to navigate and public transport is easily accessible for those without a car.
The average cost of a day in Santorini can vary depending on the traveller's preferences and habits. On average, budget travellers can spend around €50 to €100, mid-level travellers between €100 and €250, and luxury travellers €250 or more. This estimate includes accommodation, food, transport, sightseeing and other expenses.
Keep in mind that Santorini, being a popular tourist destination, may have higher prices compared to other Greek islands. It is recommended to plan and budget based on personal preferences and desired comfort level during your stay.
Stifado Greek dish @ Shutterstock
Daunted by the prospect of planning? No problem! Talk to our local Greek travel experts. We'll craft a personalised itinerary just for you.
Prefer to do it alone? Feel free to browse our pre-designed Greece itineraries for ideas, and remember that all can be tailored to meet your specific needs. For more inspiration, discover some of the the best things to do in Greece.
Prefer to do it alone? Get yourself a copy of The Rough Guide to Greece and start planning your trip with our Greece travel tips.
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written by
Olga Sitnitsa
updated 20.12.2023
