Santorini Itinerary - 3 unique ideas

Plan the trip of your dreams to Santorini with the help of our travel experts. From adventures away from civilization to culinary delights, our Santorini itineraries promise an extraordinary introduction to this Greek paradise.

How to plan a perfect Santorini itinerary

The perfect Santorini itinerary requires careful planning to cover the island's diverse attractions. When planning your days in Santorini, start by researching and prioritizing 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 accommodation strategically based on your preferences: sunset views in Oia, bustling Fira, or tranquil spots for peace and quiet vacations.

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.

How many days is good for Santorini?

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 neighboring islands, and opt for a more leisurely pace for spontaneous discovery, cultural immersion, and authentic experiences.

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Must-see places during your Santorini itinerary

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.

Oia

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 quaint 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.

Perissa Beach

Relax on the mesmerizing black sandy shores of Perissa Beach. Known for its lively beach bars that offer sunbeds, umbrellas, and a vibrant social atmosphere, this seaside paradise is framed by the volcanic landscape. It also 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

Almost entirely rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1956, Fira (also known as Hóra) clings precariously to the edge of the enormous caldera. The rising and setting of the sun are especially beautiful when seen here against the Cycladic buildings lining the clifftop, and are even enough to make battling through the high-season crowds worthwhile.

Imerovigli

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.

Akrotiri Archaeological Site

Evidence of the Minoan colony that once thrived here has been uncovered at the ancient site of Akrotiri at the southwestern tip of the island; the site was inhabited from the Late Neolithic period through to the seventeenth century BC. Allow at least an hour to visit the site, where Minoan walls are preserved up to two stories high.

Red Beach

Discover the unique beauty of Red Beach, where striking red cliffs meet the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea. Relax on the unique red volcanic sand, swim and soak in the breathtaking scenery that defines this one-of-a-kind coastal paradise.

Looking for a more diverse vacation in Greece? Check out our 10-days Greece itineraries.

Itinerary #1: Athens, Meteora & Santorini

On this 8-day Santorini, Athens, and Meteora itinerary you will experience the best of Greece.

Itinerary overview

Upon arrival in Athens, you will be treated to a private e-bike and culinary tours to explore local neighborhoods 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 to 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 snorkeling.

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.

Check this itinerary with accommodations in Athens & Santorini:

Day 1

• Arrival in Athens
• Private e-bike and food tour
• Overnight in Athens

Day 2

• Private Coastal E-Bike Tour
• Private evening Acropolis and Plaka tour
• Overnight in Athens

Day 3

• Train to Meteora
• Meteora sightseeing tour
• Back to Athens by train
• Overnight in Athens

Day 4

• Flight to Santorini
• Overnight in Santorini

Day 5

• Caldera Day Cruise
• Overnight in Santorini

Day 6

• Morning at leisure
• Cycle e-bike tour
• Overnight in Santorini

Day 7

• Scuba Diving and Snorkeling in Santorini
• Overnight in Santorini

Day 8

• Transfer to Athens and departure

Ready to embark on an adventure? Book your trip now.

Looking for more week-long adventures in Greece? Explore our 7-day Greece itineraries.

Itinerary #2: From Athens to Milos, Naxos and Santorini

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 savor sunsets on Santorini.

Itinerary overview

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 rental car and take part in a full-day boat trip to Kleftiko and its caves. On day six, you'll leave your rental 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.

Check this itinerary covering Santorini, Athens, Milos and Naxos:

Day 1

• Arrival in Athens
• Private Acropolis Tour
• Overnight in Athens

Day 2

• Morning at leisure in Athens
• Temple of Poseidon and Athenian Riviera private tour
• Overnight in Athens

Day 3

• From Athens to Milos by boat
• Rental car pick-up
• Overnight in Milos

Day 4

• Full-day boat tour in Milos
• Overnight in Milos

Day 5

• Exploring the beaches of Milos by car
• Overnight in Milos

Day 6

• Drop off rental car in Milos
• Transfer to Naxos by boat
• Naxos Town - Private Food Tour
• Overnight in Naxos

Day 7

• Free day to explore the island of Naxos
• Overnight in Naxos

Day 8

• Day trip to Mykonos and Delos islands
• Overnight in Naxos

Day 9

• From Naxos to Santorini by speedboat
• Private wine tasting in Santorini
• Overnight in Santorini

Day 10

• Caldera Classic Cruise
• Overnight in Santorini

Day 11

• Transfer to Athens and departure

Feeling curious? Take a step forward and book this trip now.

Ready to explore Greece? Get started with our expert travel planning tips.

Itinerary #3: Greek Dreams: Athens, Corfu, Santorini and Crete

Choose this private 13-day Greek Islands Dream itinerary with accommodation in exquisite hotels. Explore ancient history, savor Mediterranean cuisine, and relax in stunning surroundings, creating wonderful memories to last a lifetime.

Itinerary overview

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 food with a private gastronomy tour. Enjoy a day of relaxation on day six, and on day seven fly to Santorini with a stopover in 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.

Check this itinerary covering Athens, Milos, Corfu, Santorini and Crete:

Day 1

• Arrival in Athens
• Explore Athens at your own leisure
• Overnight in Athens

Day 2

• Taste of Athens Food Walk with lunch
• Overnight in Athens

Day 3

• Mythology, Acropolis Museum and Acropolis Tour
• Overnight in Milos

Day 4

• From Athens to Corfu flight
• Corfu Wine Tasting
• Overnight in Corfu

Day 5

• Private Food Tour in Corfu
• Overnight in Corfu

Day 6

• Day at leisure in Corfu
• Overnight in Corfu

Day 7

• From Corfu to Santorini via Athens (flights).
• Overnight in Santorini

Day 8

• Caldera Classic Cruise
• Overnight in Santorini

Day 9

• Exploring Santorini and optional activities
• Overnight in Santorini

Day 10

• From Santorini to Heraklion by speedboat
• Overnight in Heraklion

Day 11

• Day at leisure in Heraklion with optional activities
• Overnight in Heraklion

Day 12

• Relaxing Day at the beach or Historical Tour
• Overnight in Heraklion

Day 13

• Transfer to the airport and departure to Athens

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When is the best time to visit Santorini?

The optimal time to travel to Santorini is in late spring (May - June) or early fall (September - October), when the island has ideal weather conditions and fewer tourists. Temperatures during this period range from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C), 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, July and August.

In addition, late spring and early fall 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 favorable weather, cultural experiences, and a relaxed exploration of Santorini's landscapes.

Read more about the best time to visit Greece.

Getting to & around Santorini

Getting to Santorini is usually possible by flying into Santorini (Thira) Airport (JTR) from major European cities. Renting a car at Santorini airport is a convenient option for exploring the island. Another option is to get from Athens to Santorini by ferry from the Athenian ports of Piraeus or Rafina. The island can be traveled by buses, taxis, rental 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.

Average daily cost in Santorini

The average cost of a day in Santorini can vary depending on the traveler’s preferences and habits. On average, budget travelers can spend around $55 to $110, mid-level travelers between $110 and $275, and luxury travelers $275 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.

Planning your dream trip to Santorini

Daunted by the prospect of planning? No problem! Talk to our local Greek travel experts. We'll craft a personalized itinerary just for you.

Prefer to explore on your own? Browse our pre-designed Greece itineraries for ideas and pick up a copy of The Rough Guide to Greece.

Start planning your trip with our Greece travel tips, and for additional inspiration, check out some of the best things to do in Greece.

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