Santorini in 3 giorni: itinerario per scoprire l’isola greca

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

With its unmistakable crescent shape, Santorini (also called Thera or Thira) ranks among the most charming and visited islands of the Greek peninsula in 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. A volcanic island originally circular in shape, Santorini underwent a devastating volcanic eruption in the 17th century BC. A tsunami that started the decline of the Minoan civilization. Due to the geophysical disaster and many aspects common to Atlantis, it is thought that the legendary island of Plato is in fact Santorini. Furthermore, since no human remains have been found on the island, it is hypothesized that the inhabitants might have escaped the disaster probably by taking refuge in still unexplored areas. Indeed, because Santorini is an island continuously subjected to historical and archaeological research, someday these might support the Platonic myth.

Magic pervades the island of Santorini also through the colors that make it truly unique. The numerous beaches take on various shades such as the black of Perissa, the red of the Red Beach, and the white of Vlyhada. The typically Cycladic houses with white walls are tinged with orange, pink, and golden hues during sunset. Occasionally, a blue dome appears, a strong identifying feature of the traditional churches.

A true postcard landscape to admire calmly even during the typical Fira-Mesa Gialos route riding on mules ready to face the effort of hundreds and hundreds of steps. During excursions to the islets of Santorini, through the ‘caldera tour’ on the typical boat called ‘caïque’, you can still admire the green and brown colors of the sulfur waters near the ‘mouth’ of the volcano.

After moving from one side to the other of the island discovering its wonders, you can stop to taste typical dishes such as a succulent grilled fish freshly caught, a refreshing salad with feta cheese, cucumbers, tomatoes, and capers or a more hearty moussaka, all accompanied by excellent wine. In the evening, the nightlife of Santorini is fully alive. There is no shortage of clubs ready to unleash spirits until the early hours of the morning. In the restaurants, Greek music entertains the diners, who are even invited by waiters to dance a lively sirtaki and join in the picturesque custom of breaking plates.

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

Whether you are looking for suggestions on where to stay in Santorini, how to get around or what to see, you will find everything you need to create your personalized itinerary in Santorini. So, let yourself be inspired and get ready to experience a unique adventure in one of Greece’s most fascinating destinations!

Day 1: Explore Fira and Imerovigli

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

Fira, the capital of Santorini

The picturesque village of Fira is the ideal starting point to begin your 3-day exploration of Santorini. In the center of the town is Fira Theotokopulos, the main square surrounded by restaurants and bars, as well as adjacent to the bus station. Strolling through the narrow alleys of Fira, full of shops, is a real pleasure. We recommend simply letting your curiosity guide you to discover what you might find. However, there are some places not to be missed at all.

Prehistoric Museum of Thira

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

Churches of Fira

Lovers of sacred art cannot miss the opportunity to visit the many churches of Fira. The Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral of Candlemas stands out for its imposing white facade, decorated with characteristic arches, and for the beautiful interior frescoes. Additionally, its elevated position offers a breathtaking view. Hidden in a quiet alley, the Catholic Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist stands out for its unusual pale yellow and blue color, contrasting with the typical white.

Quick Greek Lunch

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

Visit the Old Port of Santorini

Located by the water, below the center of Fira, is the Old Port of Santorini (also known as Skala Port or Gialos Port). Although it’s not exactly one of the main attractions to see, the Old Port offers a unique viewpoint on the sea and allows you to admire the Delenda Tower. Although the Old Port is no longer as active as it once was, it is still used by some boat tours and a small fleet of fishing boats. During summer, cruise ships disembark passengers at this port, making it very busy.

There are two ways to reach the Old Port: via a steep path or with the convenient cable car. The zig-zag path of over 500 steps connecting the port to the town of Fira is also used by donkeys, so watch your step! However, recently protests have risen against the exploitation of these poor equines, which represent an attraction but also a rather peculiar way to transport people and luggage. Personally, many years ago, I rode a donkey unwillingly, but the experience left me somewhat unsettled. It’s better to use the cable car, which can be useful for going back up, but only if the queue is not too long, and also for going down to the port.

Walk from Fira to Imerovigli

Undoubtedly, one of the best things to do in Santorini is to admire the breathtaking views. The pedestrian path from Fira to Oia is the perfect place to enjoy unparalleled panoramic views. Although the more ambitious travelers may hike the entire route, for the first day of your Santorini itinerary, we recommend a shorter walk, about 4 kilometers to the village of Imerovigli.

What to See Along the Fira to Imerovigli Route

The trail along the caldera rim from Fira to Imerovigli also passes through Firostefani. The breathtaking landscapes are undoubtedly the highlight of this excursion, with some unmissable stops along the way. Leaving Fira, the Catholic Church of Saint Stylianos, with its white dome and yellow-blue tones, offers a nice viewpoint looking back towards the town. Approaching Firostefani, there is a caldera viewpoint right in front of the Orthodox Church of Saint Theodore, painted in a lovely pastel yellow.

Just beyond the viewpoint is the panoramic spot of the Three Bell Towers of Fira, an iconic and heavily photographed image of Santorini. The small Chapel of the Holy Cross is a great place for panoramic photos. Also, the Church of the Resurrection of the Lord, with its blue dome and coastal background, is a breathtaking sight not to be missed. Skaros Rock, jutting into the sea from Imerovigli, is a steep rock formation offering sublime views, though it requires a strenuous climb to reach the top. The path from Fira to Imerovigli is mostly paved, but it is an uphill trail with some steps. Also, it is exposed to the sun without shade. Remember to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.

Enjoy the Sunset in Santorini

There are countless spots along the walking route in Imerovigli, Firostefani, or Fira where you can admire the sunset. The more adventurous can watch the sun set from atop Skaros Rock. Those who prefer to enjoy the show with a cocktail in hand can head to one of the many bars in Santorini known 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, the V Lounge Café is a top choice.

Alternatively, you can reserve 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 dish, not just drinks and appetizers.

Dine at a Family-Run Restaurant

End your first day in Santorini with dinner in an authentic Greek tavern, Taverna Simos. This traditional restaurant is known for its genuine dishes and welcoming atmosphere. We recommend ordering some Meze, small shared plates, to taste a bit of everything. Among the favorites are saganaki and the Simos “Special,” a delicious combination of roasted peppers and stewed vegetables.

Day 2: Oia

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

Explore Oia, the jewel of Santorini

Oia is one of the must-visit destinations in Santorini. This famous white and blue village is located in the northern part of the island and is characterized by cubic houses carved into the rock that slope steeply towards the caldera. One of the best ways to discover Oia is simply to enjoy a relaxing stroll through its narrow streets. However, there are some activities not to be missed.

Skiza Café Oia

A perfect way to start the day in Oia is with a coffee and breakfast at Skiza Café. This restaurant offers a breathtaking view of the caldera and an excellent gastronomic offer at reasonable prices. Order a Frappe or an iced coffee and the 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) is located on the main square of Oia. It is one of the most beautiful churches in Santorini, with its imposing white structure, the blue dome, and the elegant multi-tiered bell tower with six bells.

Oia’s Blue Dome Churches

Admiring the blue dome churches of Oia, which stand out against the caldera’s panorama, is a must when visiting Santorini in 3 days. The snow-white churches with domes painted to match the sea are the emblem of the architecture of the Greek islands, and Oia hosts the most beautiful examples. Two blue dome churches in Oia, the Church of Agios Spyridon and the Church of Anastasi, stand side by side and are a symbol of Santorini. Photographing these iconic monuments is so incredibly popular that you will probably have to queue to take your photo.

Atlantis Books

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

Santorini Maritime Museum

This small but interesting museum in Santorini features exhibits on the island’s history, its ports, and its trades. A small admission ticket is required and the knowledgeable staff offers useful explanations.

Oia Windmills

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

Oia Castle

Climbing among the ruins of the Oia Castle is one of the main activities to do in Santorini, Greece. Located on a hill overlooking 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 place of protection for the district’s residents. In the 1956 earthquake, much of the castle collapsed into the sea; only the tower and some wall fragments remain. Still, it offers one of the best views of Santorini’s caldera.

Lunch at Amoudi Bay

Nestled at the foot of the red cliff below Oia is Amoudi Bay, a small inlet bathed by turquoise sea. Here are some fish restaurants, with tables overlooking the water. Lunching here is a truly fantastic experience. After lunch, continue past the restaurants and take the path that turns the corner, leading to Bay, a secluded beach. From here, the more adventurous can swim to the small island hosting the Chapel of Saint Nicholas. Amoudi Bay can be reached by a staircase of more than 275 steps or by taxi. Actually, we suggest walking down and then asking your waiter to call a taxi for your return to Oia.

Explore Oia Freely

In the afternoon, allow yourself time to explore Oia freely. Although the village is incredibly popular and almost always crowded with tourists (especially on the days cruise ships arrive), it is still possible to find quiet corners away from the crowd. Walk through the alleys and see where they lead you, pop into craft shops, and capture photos of the cats of Santorini. Treat yourself to a refreshing frozen delight from Lolita’s Gelato during your walk—the best gelato in Oia, with flavors like hazelnut and pistachio among the favorites.

Lioyerma Lounge Café Pool Bar

In the late afternoon, the Lioyerma Lounge Pool Bar is one of the main places to cool off from the heat of the day. Visitors can take a dip in the pool, relax under umbrellas, and enjoy the view. It’s also a great spot to watch the sunset. Although there is no entrance fee to use the pool, a minimum food and drink consumption 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 is certainly no shortage of places and people. As already mentioned, the castle ruins are the most popular place to admire the sunset in Oia. It can get really crowded, so you’ll need to arrive early, especially during the high season. Other prime sunset viewpoints in Oia are the Lioyerma Pool and Ammoudi Bay. Bring some snacks and drinks to fully enjoy the show.

Dinner in a Santorini Wine Garden

After a long day of sightseeing in 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 there is a 400-year-old cellar that guests can visit free of charge (just ask the staff). The gastronomic offer is excellent: avocado shrimp, grilled zucchini and mushrooms, roasted lamb, and much more. The staff is 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 last day of your 3-day itinerary in Santorini, 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 it feels light years away from the hustle and bustle of most other towns on the island. Start with a delicious breakfast, then spend the rest of the morning wandering through the village. There are no real 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 to do on the island and the perfect way to end your three days in Santorini. There are dozens of cruise options, with various offers at different prices. However, we recommend this Santorini Catamaran Cruise, which includes:

• Pickup 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 snacks
• Local wine, soft drinks, and bottled water

Other Things to Do in Santorini

We have outlined what we consider to be the best 3-day itinerary in Santorini. However, those with different interests or more time available might want to add these popular activities to do in Santorini, Greece, to their vacation.

Archaeological Sites in Santorini

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

Akrotiri Archaeological Site

One of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the world, the ruins of Akrotiri are the remains of a Minoan Bronze Age settlement. Often referred to as the “Greek Pompeii,” the Akrotiri site, dating back 4,000 years, has not yet been fully excavated. For a better understanding, it can be useful to hire a guide who can share information about the site or book the audio guide ticket.

Ancient Thera Archaeological Site

The remains of the Ancient City of Thera were discovered on a mountaintop in southern Santorini at the end of the 19th century. The vast excavated site features numerous remains of the ancient civilization, including streets, houses, temples, a theater, and a marketplace area.

A small entrance ticket is required and there are informational signs in English. The site can be reached by car or via a trekking path. Visitors should prepare adequately to visit Ancient Thera, as it is fully exposed to the sun and often to strong winds. Suitable shoes are also necessary.

Museums of Santorini

Besides those mentioned in our 3-day Santorini itinerary, there are other museums on the island that travelers might want to visit.

Argyros Mansion

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

Tomato Factory

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

Lost Atlantis Experience

A unique way to learn about the history of Santorini, the Lost Atlantis Experience is an interactive museum that tells the story of the island 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, the Wine Museum of Santorini traces the history of viticulture on the island. The guided tour with an audio guide is completed by a selection of wine tastings at the end of the visit!

Wine Tours in Santorini

Tasting local wines is one of the main activities to do in Santorini – and there are many wineries, tasting rooms, and tours to choose from.

Wine Adventure

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

Self-Guided Visit

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

Beaches of Santorini

The island of Santorini is dramatically beautiful and its beaches are very attractive as well. That said, Santorini’s beaches are not the long, white sandy ones Greece is famous for. They are rocky and made up of volcanic pebbles. However, the blue water invites swimming and the shore is equipped with umbrellas and kiosks. In general, the best beaches of Santorini, Greece, are found on the eastern side of the island, facing away from the caldera.

Kamari Beach (great for families), Perissa Beach (which attracts 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, Greece, 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 Tour

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

The Greek Wedding Show

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

Food of Santorini

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

Santorini Fava

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

Tomatokeftedes

A fried appetizer made with tomato, basil, and mint (and 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, the 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 starting from this link or check our FullTravel Booking where lastminute offers are also available.

Holiday Package in Santorini

If you want to take a holiday in Santorini you can book your organized trip with our partner and make sure to experience the island to the fullest, with meticulously planned itineraries and no worries.