Santorini in 3 Days: Itinerary to Discover the Greek Island

Santorini, jewel of the Aegean, is a highly sought-after destination for travelers. With its characteristic white and blue villages, blue-domed churches, and turquoise sea, this island perfectly embodies the quintessential Greek aesthetic. Whether it’s a romantic couple’s getaway, an adventurous trip with friends, or a family vacation, Santorini possesses a charm that captivates every type of visitor.

With its unmistakable crescent shape, Santorini (also called Thera or Thira) ranks among the most fascinating and popular islands in the Greek peninsula within the Cyclades group. Located on the southern side of the Cyclades islands (in the Aegean Sea), Santorini enchants tourists with the magic of its history and colors. Originally a circular volcanic island, Santorini suffered a devastating volcanic eruption in the 17th century BC. A tsunami that marked the beginning of the decline of the Minoan civilization. Given the geophysical disaster and many aspects common with Atlantis, it is believed that Plato’s legendary island might actually be Santorini. Moreover, since no human remains have been found on the island, it is hypothesized that the inhabitants might have escaped the disaster by taking refuge in still unexplored areas. Indeed, Santorini is an island continuously studied by historical and archaeological research, which may one day substantiate Plato’s myth.

Magic pervades Santorini also through the colors that make it truly unique. The numerous beaches take on different chromatic tones such as the black of Perissa, the red of the Red Beach, and the white of Vlyhada. The typically Cycladic houses with their pristine walls turn shades of orange, pink, and gold during sunset. Occasionally, a blue dome peeks out, a strong identifying feature of traditional small churches.

Truly postcard-worthy landscapes can be admired leisurely, even during the typical Fira-Mesa Gialos route atop donkeys ready to tackle the arduous hundreds of steps. During excursions to Santorini’s islets, aboard the ‘caldera tour’ on the typical boat called ‘caicco’, one can still admire the green and brown hues of sulfurous waters near the volcano’s ‘mouth’.

After moving from one side of the island to the other to discover its wonders, you can stop to savor typical dishes such as a succulent grilled fish freshly caught, a refreshing salad with feta, cucumbers, tomatoes, and capers, or a more substantial moussaka, all accompanied by excellent local wine. When evening comes, Santorini’s nightlife is lively and ready to be experienced. Nightclubs abound to entertain spirits until the early hours of the morning. In restaurants, Greek music delights diners, who are even invited by waitstaff to dance an animated sirtaki and join in the picturesque tradition of breaking plates.

Planning a 3-day itinerary in Santorini may seem challenging given the myriad attractions to see and logistics to manage. However, there’s no need to worry! In this article, we guide you step by step through the best the island has to offer, sharing practical tips to make your stay unforgettable.

Whether you’re looking for advice on where to stay in Santorini, how to get around, or what to see, you’ll find everything you need to create your personalized Santorini itinerary. So, get inspired and prepare to enjoy a unique experience in one of Greece’s most charming destinations!

Day 1: Explore Fira and Imerovigli

Start your Santorini adventure by visiting Fira, the island’s capital. Stroll through the narrow streets of the historic center, admire the churches, and enjoy a Greek lunch. Then, take a scenic walk up to Imerovigli and let yourself be enchanted by the sunset.

Fira, Santorini’s Capital

The picturesque village of Fira is the perfect starting point to begin your 3-day exploration of Santorini. At the city center lies Fira Theotokopulos, the main square surrounded by restaurants and bars, and adjacent to the bus station. Walking through Fira’s narrow alleys filled with shops is a real delight. We recommend letting curiosity guide you to discover what you might find. Still, there are some places you absolutely shouldn’t miss.

Prehistoric Museum of Thira

The Prehistoric Museum of Thira is the city’s main attraction. It houses a spectacular collection of Minoan artifacts from the archaeological site of Akrotiri in Santorini. Among these are pottery, vases, and frescoes dating back to the Neolithic era.

Churches of Fira

Sacred art lovers cannot miss the chance to visit Fira’s many churches. The Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral of Candlemas stands out for its imposing white facade, decorated with characteristic arches, and its splendid interior frescoes. Furthermore, its elevated position offers breathtaking views. Hidden in a quiet alley, the Catholic Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist stands out for its unusual pale yellow and blue colors, contrasting with the typical white.

Quick Greek Lunch

For your first day lunch, take a quick Greek-style break. The most popular souvlaki restaurant in Fira is Lucky’s, located right on the main square. Prepare to queue with other hungry visitors, awaiting the delicious freshly grilled pita. For those wishing to avoid crowds, a great alternative is Golden Grill Santorini, serving quality meats with friendly service, much loved also by locals. Vegetarian or vegan travelers can opt for FalafeLand, the best meat-free eatery.

Visit the Old Port of Santorini

Located at the water’s edge, below the center of Fira, is the Old Port of Santorini (also known as Skala Port or Gialos Port). While not exactly one of the main sights, the Old Port offers a unique sea view and allows visitors to admire the Delenda Tower. Although no longer as active as it once was, the Old Port is still used by some boat excursions and a small fleet of fishing boats. In summer, cruise ships disembark passengers here, making it very crowded.

There are two ways to reach the Old Port: via a steep path or the convenient funicular. The zig-zag path with over 500 steps connecting the port to Fira is also used by donkeys, so watch your step! However, protests have risen recently regarding the exploitation of these poor animals, which are both an attraction and a rather peculiar means of transporting people and luggage. Personally, years ago I rode a donkey unwillingly, and the experience left me somewhat puzzled. It’s better to use the funicular which can be useful for going back up, but only if the queue isn’t too long, and also to descend to the port.

Walk from Fira to Imerovigli

Without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Santorini is admire breathtaking views. The walking path from Fira to Oia is perfect for enjoying unparalleled panoramic vistas. While ambitious travelers can hike the entire route, for the first day of your Santorini itinerary, we recommend a shorter walk of about 4 kilometers to the village of Imerovigli.

What to See on the Fira to Imerovigli Route

The trail follows the caldera rim from Fira to Imerovigli, passing through Firostefani as well. The breathtaking landscapes are undoubtedly the highlight of this excursion, with several must-see stops along the way. Leaving Fira, the Catholic Church of Saint Stylianos, with its white dome and yellow-blue tones, offers a beautiful viewpoint looking back towards the city. Near Firostefani, there is a caldera viewpoint right opposite the pastel-yellow Orthodox Church of Saint Theodore.

Just beyond the viewpoint is the panoramic spot of the Three Bells of Fira, an iconic and much-photographed Santorini image. The small Chapel of the Holy Cross is an excellent place for panoramic photos. Also, the Church of the Resurrection of the Lord, with its blue dome and coastal backdrop, is a breathtaking sight not to miss. Skaros Rock, jutting into the sea from Imerovigli, is a steep rocky formation offering sublime views, although it requires a strenuous climb to reach the top. The path from Fira to Imerovigli is mostly paved but is uphill with some steps. It’s also exposed to the sun without shade. Remember to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.

Watch the Sunset in Santorini

There are countless spots along the walking paths in Imerovigli, Firostefani, or Fira where you can admire the sunset. The more adventurous can watch the sun go down from the top of Skaros Rock. Those who prefer to enjoy the show with a cocktail in hand can go to one of the many Santorini bars famous for their breathtaking sunsets. Just book a table in advance. The Wine Bar in Imerovigli is one of the best places in Santorini to watch the sunset. For a chic aperitif in Firo, V Lounge Café is a top choice.

Alternatively, you can book a spot on the outdoor terrace of the casual Mama Thira Tavern in Firostefani. However, during peak season, each person is required to order a main course, not just drinks and appetizers.

Dinner at a Family-Run Restaurant

Conclude your first day in Santorini with dinner at an authentic Greek taverna, Taverna Simos. This traditional restaurant is known for its genuine dishes and cozy atmosphere. We recommend ordering Meze, small plates to share and savor a variety. Favorites include saganaki and the “Special” Simos, a delicious combination of roasted peppers and stewed vegetables.

Day 2: Oia

Spend your second day in Santorini exploring Oia, the island’s most iconic village. Enjoy a lunch with a breathtaking view and end the evening with a dinner in a charming historic garden accompanied by local wines.

Explore Oia, Santorini’s Gem

Oia is one of the must-visit destinations in Santorini. This famous white and blue village sits in the northern part of the island, characterized by cube-shaped houses carved into the rock that plunge sharply towards the caldera. One of the best ways to discover Oia is simply to relax on a stroll through its narrow alleys. However, some activities are not to be missed.

Skiza Café Oia

A perfect way to start the day in Oia is with coffee and breakfast at Skiza Café. This restaurant offers breathtaking views of the caldera and excellent cuisine at reasonable prices. Order a Frappe or an iced coffee and Strapatsada, a typical Greek dish of scrambled eggs with fresh tomatoes and feta.

Main Square and Church of Panagia Akathistos

The Church of Panagia Akathistos Hymn (or Church of Panagia Platsani) stands on Oia’s main square. It is one of the most beautiful churches in Santorini, with its imposing white structure, blue dome, and elegant multi-level bell tower with six bells.

Blue-Domed Churches of Oia

Admiring Oia’s blue-domed churches against the caldera backdrop is a must when visiting Santorini in 3 days. The dazzling white churches with domes painted to match the sea are the emblem of Greek island architecture, and Oia houses the most beautiful examples. Two blue-domed churches in Oia, the Church of Agios Spyridon and the Church of Anastasi, stand side by side and symbolize Santorini. Photographing these iconic monuments is so incredibly popular that you’ll likely have to wait in line to capture your shot.

Atlantis Books

Visiting Atlantis Books is one of the quirkiest and most curious things to do in Oia, Greece. The charming space is packed with books and scattered with thought-provoking quotes. For visitors, it’s a good place to purchase a book about Greek mythology or a rare first edition.

Santorini Maritime Museum

This small but interesting museum in Santorini showcases exhibits about the island’s history, its ports, and its trades. A small entrance fee is required, and knowledgeable staff offer helpful explanations.

Oia Windmills

Seeing the Oia Windmills should definitely be on your list of things to do in Santorini. Since the 14th century, windmills dotted Santorini, harnessing the wind to grind cereals into flour. Today, only a few windmills remain, with the two best located in Oia. Dating back to the 17th century, the Oia Windmills are no longer operational but very photogenic.

Oia Castle

Climbing among the ruins of Oia Castle is one of the top activities to do in Santorini, Greece. Situated on a hill facing west, the castle is considered one of the best (and most crowded) spots to admire the sunset in Oia. Officially called Castle of Agios Nikolaos in Oia, it was built in the 15th century by the Venetians. The fortress served as a guard outpost, residence, and refuge for the district’s residents. During the 1956 earthquake, much of the castle collapsed into the sea; only the tower and some wall fragments remain. However, it still offers one of the best views of the Santorini caldera.

Lunch at Amoudi Bay

Nestled at the foot of the red cliff beneath Oia lies Amoudi Bay, a small cove lapped by turquoise waters. Here you’ll find several seafood restaurants with tables directly overlooking the water. Dining here is a truly fantastic experience. After lunch, continue past the restaurants and take the path that rounds the corner, leading you to Bay, a secluded beach. From here, the more adventurous can swim to the small island that hosts the Chapel of Saint Nicholas. Amoudi Bay can be reached via a stairway with over 275 steps or by taxi. Actually, we suggest descending on foot and then asking your waiter to call you a taxi for the return to Oia.

Explore Oia Freely

In the afternoon, allow yourself some free time to explore Oia. Although the village is incredibly popular and almost always crowded with tourists (especially on cruise ship days), you can still find quiet corners away from the crowd. Wander through the alleys to see where they lead, visit craft shops, and capture photos of Santorini’s cats. Treat yourself to a refreshing frozen delight from Lolita’s Gelato, the best gelato in Oia, with flavors like hazelnut and pistachio among favorites.

Lioyerma Lounge Café Pool Bar

In the late afternoon, the Lioyerma Lounge Pool Bar is a prime spot to cool down from the day’s heat. Visitors can take a dip in the pool, relax under umbrellas, and enjoy the view. It’s also a great place to watch the sunset. Although there is no entrance fee to use the pool, a minimum food and drink purchase is required — but you can stay as long as you want!

Sunset in Oia

Watching the sunset in Oia tops the list of things to do in Santorini, and there are plenty of places and people. As mentioned, the castle ruins are the most popular spot to watch the sunset in Oia. It can get very crowded, so you’ll need to arrive early, especially during peak season. Other prime sunset viewpoints in Oia include the Lioyerma Pool and Ammoudi Bay. Bring some snacks and drinks to fully enjoy the show.

Dinner in a Santorini Winery Garden

After a long day visiting Oia, relax and enjoy a delicious meal at the Pelian Kipos Wine Restaurant. Located in the heart of Fira, the restaurant is set in a hidden garden, a true oasis of peace. The property has a long history, and underground lies a 400-year-old cellar that guests can visit for free (just ask the staff). The menu is excellent: avocado shrimp, grilled zucchini and mushrooms, roast lamb, and more. The staff are happy to suggest wine pairings from their extensive selection. At the end of the meal, order Santorini wine and Vin Santo as a digestif.

Day 3: Village Life and Sunset Cruise

On the final day of your 3-day Santorini itinerary, spend the morning exploring some of the island’s villages on foot. Then, in the afternoon, set sail for an unforgettable sunset cruise.

Karterados, the Traditional Village

The village of Karterados is just a 20-minute walk from Fira but feels like a world away from most other bustling towns on the island. Start with a delicious breakfast, then spend the rest of the morning strolling through the village. There aren’t major attractions in Karterados, but you can admire a well-preserved windmill, get lost in the alleys, and meet many friendly cats.

Sunset Cruise in Santorini

A sunset cruise is one of the best activities on the island and the perfect way to conclude your three days in Santorini. There are dozens of options for cruises, with various offerings at different prices. However, we recommend this Santorini Catamaran Cruise, which includes:

• Pick-up and drop-off service aboard an air-conditioned minivan
• Excursion aboard a luxury catamaran
• Guided tour
• Snorkeling equipment
• Safety equipment
• Greek buffet with pasta, salad, and appetizers
• Local wine, soft drinks, and bottled water

Other Things to Do in Santorini

We’ve outlined what we consider the best 3-day itinerary in Santorini. However, those with different interests or more time may wish to add these popular activities to their Greek island vacation.

Santorini Archaeological Sites

Like much of Greece, Santorini has a long and fascinating past. Two archaeological sites help preserve this history and are interesting places to visit.

Archaeological Site of Akrotiri

One of the world’s most fascinating archaeological sites, the ruins of Akrotiri are the remains of a Bronze Age Minoan settlement. Often called the “Greek Pompeii,” the site, dating back 4,000 years, is not yet fully excavated. For better understanding, hiring a guide who can share information or booking the ticket with audio guide can be helpful.

Archaeological Site of Ancient Thera

The remains of the Ancient City of Thera were discovered on a mountain top in southern Santorini at the end of the 19th century. The extensive excavated site features numerous remains of the ancient civilization, including roads, homes, temples, a theater, and a marketplace area.

There is a small entrance fee, and signs in English. The site can be reached by car or trekking trail. Visitors should prepare accordingly, as Ancient Thera is fully exposed to sun and often fierce winds. Suitable footwear is required.

Santorini Museums

Besides the ones mentioned in our 3-day Santorini itinerary, the island has other museums travelers might want to visit.

Argyros Mansion

A 19th-century mansion built by a wealthy wine producer, the Argyros family home is now open to visitors. For a small fee, guests can join guided tours to learn the history of the house, daily life of the owners, and information about Santorini’s past winemaking.

Tomato Factory

Many visitors to Santorini do not know that before the tourism boom, the island was a significant exporter of “pelte,” better known as tomato paste. A special variety of tomatoes, Domati Santorini, is one of the few crops that grow well in volcanic soil. The Tomato Industrial Museum offers insights into this export history and even the chance to taste the product.

Lost Atlantis Experience

A unique way to learn about Santorini’s history, Lost Atlantis Experience is an interactive museum telling the island’s story from its origins and the myths and legends surrounding it. There are fun photo opportunities. Tickets can be purchased in advance.

Wine Museum

For wine lovers, Santorini’s Wine Museum traces the history of viticulture on the island. The audio-guided tour is complemented by a selection of wine tastings at the end!

Wine Tours in Santorini

Tasting local wines is a top activity in Santorini — and there are many wineries, tasting rooms, and tours to choose from.

Wine Adventure

The most popular wine tasting tour in Santorini by far, the small group Wine Adventure takes you to several wineries.

Self-Guided Visits

Instead of joining an organized tour, visitors can plan to visit Santorini’s wineries independently. Santo Wines is one of the island’s best wineries (also thanks to the breathtaking view). Two other wineries you can visit on your own are Gavalas Winery and Boutari Winery.

Santorini Beaches

Santorini is dramatically beautiful and its beaches are also very attractive. That said, Santorini beaches are not the long white sandy beaches Greece is famous for. They are rocky and composed of volcanic pebbles. However, the blue water invites swimming and the shore is equipped with umbrellas and kiosks. Generally, the best beaches in Santorini, Greece, are on the eastern side of the island, facing away from the caldera.

Kamari Beach (great for families), Perissa Beach (drawing all kinds of visitors), and Perivolos Beach (slightly more exclusive) are all black sand and pebble beaches and are the main choices for sunbathing and swimming in Santorini.

Other Activities in Santorini

Being one of the main tourist destinations, Santorini offers visitors a wide range of activities.

Horseback Riding

Experience exploring the rocky landscapes of Santorini on horseback. A professional guide leads small groups along black sand beaches, creating unforgettable memories.

ATV Tours

Discover the island’s highlights on a small group ATV tour. The guide will take you to off-the-beaten-path destinations via Santorini’s secondary roads. Stops include a castle, a winery, and windmills.

The Greek Wedding Show

Accept the invitation to a classic Greek wedding in Santorini and prepare for an evening of pure fun! The interactive show includes singing, dancing, and even plate breaking, along with a traditional meal!

Santorini Cuisine

While planning what to do in Santorini in 3 days, it’s equally important to consider what to eat! We provided suggestions throughout our itinerary but want to highlight some famous island dishes.

Santorini Fava

Fava beans, and more typically fava puree, are available in restaurants throughout Greece. Santorini Fava is special because the beans grown on the island have Protected Designation of Origin status. Virtually all Santorini restaurants offer fava puree as an appetizer.

Tomatokeftedes

A fried starter made from tomato, basil, and mint (sometimes other spices), Tomatokeftedes are one of the culinary specialties to try in Santorini, Greece.

Santorini Salad with Chloro Cheese

A variation of the traditional Greek salad, Santorini salad features cherry tomatoes, local cucumbers (called katsounia), and Chloro cheese – instead of feta.

Skordomakarona

A pasta dish sometimes called Santorini Spaghetti, the macaroni are dressed with fresh Santorini tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and salt.

Where to Stay in Santorini

If you want great suggestions on where to stay in Santorini, follow our partner Booking.com from this link or check our FullTravel Booking with last-minute offers.

Santorini Vacation Packages

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