Santorini 3 Day Itinerary and Travel Guide – CAFES AND GETAWAYS

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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. I’ve also included 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.

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 skyrockets.

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 Many Days to Spend in Santorini?

Spending 3 days in Santorini is a solid amount of time to be able to see most of the main sites and villages. If you are just looking to spend some time relaxing poolside and remaining in one of the villages, you could visit for only 2 days.

Santorini is one of the most beautiful places in Greece, and there is much more to do here than one might think. You could spend more than 3 days on the island if you are interested in spending time at the different beaches, exploring all the towns, and spending time on the water. 

Many people cut their visit short as they hear about the higher prices on the island. If budget is your main concern, opt to stay in some of the less expensive towns such as Fira or Karmi Beach.

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.

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. 

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 to your hotel.

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. 

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 summer. 

TRAVEL TIP: Check with your hotel before you book. Many will be able to schedule one for you and have it brought to you.

Take 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. 

Get a Taxi

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.

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. 

TRAVEL TIP: 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.

Best Places to Stay in Santorini

Katikies Santorini  – Luxury Hotel

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.  

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. 

TRAVEL TIP: 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.

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. 

From there, grab a quick bite to eat and coffee and begin your day exploring all the narrow alleyways and charming stores in Oia. Melania Café and ________ are two great places to stop!

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.

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.

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 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. 

Mezedaki is one of the best places to eat in Perissa. 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.

Pyrgos

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

My favorite winery in Santorini was Santo 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 Santo 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:

Greek Wine Tasting Experience: Tickets include wine tasting at three Santorini vineyards, wine pairings, and transportation. For sunset views from the winery, pick the afternoon tour. 

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.

Santorini Wine Museum Tour: Take a tour through the island’s wine museum. Tickets include museum entry, access to the cellars, audioguide, and wine tasting. 

TRAVEL TIP: If you join a half-day wine tour, you won’t be able to do all three of today’s activities. 

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. 

The 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.