The volcanic island of Santorini, nestled in the Aegean Sea, isn't just a gem for Greece but a symbol for all of Europe. It is not just about basking on the unique black beaches or strolling through those charming blue and white streets. The real magic happens during the iconic sunsets. Three days here is enough to leisurely take in the main attractions without rushing.
Before you travel, consider two key factors.
Firstly, it is better to avoid peak season. Known as one of the main islands of Greece, Santorini becomes a bustling tourist hub during the summer months. A trip in April-May or October allows for a respite from the constant crowds. During these periods, the island offers a more serene atmosphere, making it easier to relish the scenic views and locate parking. Moreover, the temperatures are sufficiently mild for comfortable walks on the local hills and yet warm enough to enjoy the beach time.
Another valuable tip for a more comfortable exploration of the island is to rent a car. The fact is that a car is required to get to most of the island's charming attractions, including the black and red beaches, white town of Oia and the archaeological site of Akrotiri.
Simultaneously, the cities, the most awe-inspiring panoramas, and the renowned volcano itself are situated on the west coast of Santorini, while the beaches are predominantly found on the east. Therefore, a rental car is not merely a convenience. It serves as an instrumental facilitator, ensuring easy access to Santorini's splendors.
Day 1 - city walks, alien species and a volcano
It is better to start your trip to Santorini with a walk through the city of Fira, the capital of the island. From the airport you can take a bus that goes almost to the center. The price is 2-3 euros and the journey takes about 20 minutes. The city consists of many narrow streets, and the walls of white houses are often covered with blooming bougainvillea. On the western side of the city there is a rocky cliff with a crazy view of the Aegean Sea and the volcano.
On the first day, it is worth visiting the main attractions of the island's capital, which, moreover, offer the most iconic views of Santorini. So, near the snow-white Cathedral in the center of the city there is a point from where you can see the volcano. Arriving in the late evening, during the golden hour, adds a touch of magic to Santorini. The once bright white buildings take on a golden hue, creating a surreal atmosphere. The sunset from this vantage point feels almost otherworldly, offering myriad angles for breathtaking photos. Interestingly, the view here surpasses even the well-known town of Oia. In addition, there are fewer tourists here, which allows you to enjoy the beauty in a more relaxed environment.
A little further north, next to the descent to the port, there is another vantage point with a panoramic view of the volcanic landscape of the island, covered with small houses, villas and churches. You can then head to St. Stylian Catholic Church, which is often featured on souvenir postcards. It is located right on a cliff, from which you can see the entire coast and passing ships. A little further there will be a turn, behind which lies a magnificent view of the entire city.
As the journey unfolds, it culminates at one of Santorini's most iconic spots – The Three Bells observation point. If you've ever seen those quintessential Santorini images featuring a white church with a blue dome, rest assured, you've arrived at the very spot.
Afterward, you can leisurely make your way back to the heart of Fira, exploring the charming labyrinth of local streets. The city seamlessly transitions into theneighboor Imerovigli, where you'll find the prominent Skaros rock. A bit off the beaten tourist path, this area reveals the remnants of an ancient fortress and a lonely church facing the cliff.
On your first day, make sure to visit the nearby volcano. A short boat ride from the Old Port of Fira (around 25 euros) gets you there. Boats depart twice a day—morning and lunchtime. The volcano itself is otherworldly, and the journey offers pleasant views of neighboring islands. The volcano is renowned for its hot springs, although it's worth noting that during the off-season, they tend to be more refreshing than hot. Keep in mind to have a swimsuit in dark colors, as the local volcanic water may have an impact on the color of your clothes.
A non-obvious yet crucial decision in Fira is the descent to the port, achievable either by foot or cable car. Opting for the cable car is advisable, as the descent can be quite lengthy, and the stairs, seemingly endless even for the physically fit. Additionally, the same path is frequented by donkeys, still exploited for tourist rides, despite concerns raised in various media about the animals' cruel treatment on the island.
Day 2 - Red and Black beaches
Following a bustling first day, dedicate some time to explore the distinctive local beaches, particularly the renowned red and black ones. Begin with the unique red beach situated in the southern part of the island. Towering volcanic red rocks create a stunning backdrop, with a narrow strip of sand nestled below. There are very few people here, so nothing will distract you from admiring the local views, and the photos will look like they are from another planet.
Additionally, in close proximity lies the Akrotiri archaeological zone, often likened to Pompeii. Much like Pompeii, Akrotiri was buried in volcanic ash, contributing to its remarkable preservation. Stroll through ancient streets, marvel at well-preserved two-story builduings, and transport yourself back in time to envision the city centuries ago. This historically significant site is a must-visit, and it's worth noting that Akrotiri closes around 15:00. Consider exploring it after the red beach visit and then heading to a local tavern for lunch. The surrounding area also boasts a Venetian castle.
Then, your path goes to the black beach in the east of the island. In general, there are several of them in Santorini, and the most famous are Perissa and Kamari. To get to Perissa, you need to take the main road of the island. The beach itself is quite long and picturesque, but the most breathtaking view opens at a point next to the cliff. You can simply watch the waves and the sun, or go to one of the many coffee shops and taverns. You can also have lunch or a cocktail here and then use a sun lounger for free. We suggest spending the rest of the day here, with leisurely moments of relaxation and swimming in this idyllic setting.
Day 3 - Oia and Sunsets
On the final day, we recommend a perfect blend of beach leisure and city strolls. Begin your day at Kamari, another captivating black beach situated on the opposite side of the mountain from yesterday's Perissa beach. Known for its black sand interspersed with small pebbles, Kamari offers a unique seaside experience.
Following the beach break, journey to the west coast and explore the charming town of Oia. Delight a leisurely lunch while meandering through the trendy streets. Oia is renowned for its iconic sunsets, with a plethora of fashionable designer shops lining the seaside street.
One of the main viewing spots lays near the local windmills. For another picturesque spot, visit the renowned Blue Cathedral of Santorini, a charming church perched on the city's edge against the cliffs. Keep in mind that Oia has earned its reputation as the sunset capital of the island. Even during the off-season, evenings draw many tourists, making parking limited at the entrance.
Notably, there are two routes from Fira to Oia—one along the west coast and the other along the east. To add variety to your journey, consider taking one route in one direction and the other on the way back, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the diverse local landscapes.
Three days are sufficient for uncovering the charms of Santorini, making it a great pick for a weekend escape from Thessaloniki or Athens. The island also a great destination for those seeking a more laid-back holiday experience. The only consideration lies in choosing the ideal accommodation, aligning with the preferred style of your trip—whether it's a more urban setting or a beach retreat.
Accomodation and Transportation
The hallmark of Santorini is a huge selection of hotels on the rocks overlooking the sea. You can choose the most luxurious ones with pools and caves, or you can find something simpler. In any case, the price tag will be above average.
For a convenient stay near all the attractions, consider the areas around Fira or the neighboring Imerovigli. Here, you can rent an island-style villa, offering various options to match the vibe of your holiday.
In addition to villas, hotels are also a great accommodation option. The Deluxe Hotel Santorini stands out for its ideal location and convenient parking. With a variety of room choices and a swimming pool, it caters to diverse preferences.
To effortlessly explore the island, we recommend to rent a car from Santo Speed car rental. They offer reasonable prices, well-maintained vehicles delivered directly to your hotel. For added convenience, you can also rent and return a car at the airport.
