Santorini, Greece-4-day-itinerary

Santorini Itinerary: 4 Days of Volcanic Beauty

This itinerary blends relaxation with exploration, offering a taste of Santorini’s unique charm.

Things to Know:

  • Best Time to Visit: Shoulder seasons (April-May & September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Language: Greek. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Transportation: Buses are frequent and affordable, taxis are readily available, and ATV/scooter rentals are popular for exploring the island.

Where to Stay:

  • Oia: Iconic sunsets, luxurious cave hotels, charming boutiques. (More expensive)
  • Fira: Santorini’s capital, vibrant nightlife, museums, shopping.
  • Imerovigli: Quieter than Oia, breathtaking caldera views, romantic atmosphere.
  • Kamari/Perissa: Black sand beaches, affordable accommodation, laid-back vibe.

Day 1: Arrival and Oia Sunset Magic

  • Arrive at Santorini Airport (JTR) or ferry port. Take a bus or taxi to your accommodation in Oia.
  • Settle in and explore the whitewashed streets, blue-domed churches, and charming shops of Oia.
  • Lunch: Ammoudi Fish Tavern for fresh seafood with stunning caldera views.
  • Afternoon: Relax by the pool or soak up the sun at a beach club like Santo Wines Winery overlooking the Aegean Sea.
  • Dinner: Sunset dinner at a restaurant in Oia with caldera views (Katina’s, Ambrosia). Witness the legendary Santorini sunset.

Day 2: Volcano Hike and Hot Springs

  • Take a boat trip to Nea Kameni volcano and Palea Kameni hot springs.
  • Hike: Climb to the crater of Nea Kameni for panoramic views.
  • Swim: Indulge in the therapeutic hot springs of Palea Kameni (wear swimsuits!).
  • Lunch: Enjoy fresh seafood on board the boat or at a taverna in the port town after your excursion.
  • Afternoon: Relax on the red sand beach of Red Beach, known for its unique landscape.
  • Dinner: Dine in Fira at Argo Restaurant for traditional Greek cuisine with caldera views.

Day 3: Wine Tasting and Ancient Akrotiri

  • Morning: Explore the archaeological site of Akrotiri, a Minoan Bronze Age settlement preserved by volcanic ash (similar to Pompeii).
  • Lunch: Savor local specialties at Selene, a restaurant in Pyrgos with stunning views.
  • Afternoon: Visit Santo Wines Winery for a wine tasting experience, learning about Santorini’s unique volcanic wines. Enjoy breathtaking sunset views over the vineyards.
  • Dinner: Indulge in fine dining at 1800 Floga Restaurant in Fira, known for its innovative cuisine and caldera setting.

Day 4: Beach Relaxation and Departure

  • Choose a beach to relax on: Black sand beaches like Perissa or Kamari offer sunbeds, water sports, and charming cafes. Red Beach is a must-see for its unique landscape.
  • Lunch: Enjoy fresh seafood by the sea at a taverna in Perissa or Kamari.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through the charming village of Megalochori, known for its traditional architecture and wineries.
  • Dinner: Have a final farewell dinner in Fira, savoring local flavors and reflecting on your Santorini adventure.

Transportation Tips:

  • Buses are frequent and affordable, connecting major towns and villages.
  • Taxis are readily available but can be expensive during peak season.
  • ATV/Scooter rentals allow for more flexibility to explore hidden gems but require caution due to the island’s hilly terrain.

Extra Tips:

  • Book accommodation in advance, especially if travelling during peak season.
  • Pack comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets and hiking.
  • Carry sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for protection from the strong Aegean sun.
  • Learn basic Greek phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.