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Ready to explore the magic of Santorini? Good, because we’ve put together the ultimate itinerary to help you soak up the best of this dreamy Greek island in just three days.
After several visits to Santorini, we’ve crafted the perfect guide that balances iconic sights with hidden gems and plenty of great food and drinks. Whether you’re swimming at Red Beach, hiking the caldera trail, or sailing past volcanic cliffs at sunset, this itinerary captures all the highlights—plus a few local surprises.
We’ve even included timings, maps, and all of our insider tips so that you can spend less time researching and more time exploring. This is your one-stop shop for all things Santorini. Let’s go!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Santorini was this luxury catamaran cruise! We stopped to swim and snorkel, soaked in the hot springs, had an amazing Greek meal on board, and ended the day watching the sunset from the water.
Day 1
Breakfast – Grab something near your hotel!
This morning’s tour includes hotel pickup, so either have breakfast at your hotel or grab something close by. And just a word about getting around the city in general: Santorini is pretty spread out, and the buses are slow. For that reason, we recommend renting a car or scooter to get around. A scooter is faster and more fun, but a car is fine if you’re not confident on two wheels.
Mid-day – See Santorini’s best sights on a private, customizable tour
Santorini is one of those places where every corner feels like a postcard, so why follow a rigid group tour when you can create your own adventure? That’s exactly what we did with this private, tailor-made tour, and it was the perfect way to explore the island at our own pace. It’s also a great way to get to know Santorini, so it’s an ideal activity for your first day here.
We recommend the 6-hour option, which starts at 10 am and ends at around 4 pm. That’s plenty of time to see a wide range of sights, and hotel pickup and drop-off are included, so the whole experience is seamless and stress-free.
Before we even hit the road, our guide, Vasilis, chatted with us to find out what we wanted most from the day. We visited Pyrgos for panoramic views, wandered along Red Beach, and wrapped up the afternoon with a stop at Oia. The itinerary is fully customizable, so your day could look similar, or it might be totally different!
It felt like we packed a ton into one day without ever feeling rushed. If you’re looking for a personalized, relaxing way to see Santorini’s highlights, this tour is absolutely worth it.
Read over a thousand 5-star reviews and book your private Santorini tour here!
Evening – Explore Oia and Ammoudi Bay
After exploring the island, slow down and enjoy the beauty of Oia. This village is where you get that iconic view of the hillside with all of the blue-topped buildings—I know you know which one I’m talking about!
Oia is also one of the most popular places to stay in Santorini, so you may well be based here anyway! We suggest spending the late evening exploring the area and taking in the views. If you’d like to cool off, head down to Ammoudi Bay, which is just below the Oia Castle. It’s one of our favorite swimming and cliff jumping spots in Santorini. We’ve spent many happy hours here!
Dinner – Thalami
Just a 16-minute walk (or 6-minute scooter ride) from Ammoudi Bay, Thalami is a fantastic dinner spot that offers gorgeous caldera views. Sunsets here are next level, and so is the seafood! It’s one of the best places in Santorini to eat octopus, and the moussaka is absolutely delicious. Portions here are super generous, and we thought that the prices were very reasonable considering the fact that this is an upscale spot in a prime location.
Day 2
Breakfast – The Finch
Naturally, a beach day is a must when in Santorini, and we’re throwing a bit of history in the mix today, too. We’ll be spending the morning at Kamari Beach, so head to the town itself for breakfast this morning.
Our go-to breakfast in Kamari is always The Finch. It’s a friendly, family-owned spot that’s beloved by locals and tourists alike. I highly recommend trying their famous lemon pancakes. There’s a reason why everyone raves about them!
Morning – Kamari Beach
Kamari Beach is absolutely gorgeous. I love how the long stretch of pebbly black sand contrasts with the azure water, and there’s also just a great vibe here. It’s not as crowded as some of Santorini’s other beaches, and many of the bars and restaurants here will offer you a free sunbed if you buy a drink or a meal. Just don’t forget water shoes or sandals because the pebbles can be tough on bare feet!
Early afternoon – Akrotiri Archaeological Site
Before heading to today’s lunch spot, we suggest a quick stop at the Akrotiri Archeological Site, which is one of the most important historical sites in the Aegean! It’s a 25-minute drive from Kamari Beach and costs €12 to enter.
Ideally, you’ll want to spend at least one to two hours here exploring the ruins and learning about the ancient Minoan civilization that once thrived on the island. The site is covered and easy to walk through, making it a great mid-day stop before continuing on to lunch.
Lunch – Asterias
Now, there aren’t a ton of lunch options in Akrotiri, but this one is very popular! It’s an authentic Greek restaurant right on the water, serving fresh local seafood and amazing pasta. We snagged a table right out on the jetty, which was just fantastic, and the staff really couldn’t have been nicer to us. It’s the perfect example of warm Greek hospitality!
The only downside to this place is that it is on the more expensive side. You definitely pay for what you get, but if you’re after something cheaper, then you could always grab lunch in Kamari before heading to the Akrotiri Archeological Site, as there’s more choice around there.
Afternoon – Red Beach
We’re carrying on the beach fun this afternoon at the spectacular Red Beach. It’s just a 4-minute drive from the ruins site, and it’s right next door to Asterias restaurant. It’s famous for—yep, you guessed it—its red-hued sand and volcanic cliffs. I always think that this is what beaches on Mars would look like!
You’ll want to spend around 1 to 1.5 hours here snapping photos and admiring the beach’s otherworldly landscape. You can rent an umbrella and sunbed if you like, and swimming is usually allowed in designated areas. Bring along your snorkel mask, if you have one, as Red Beach is also known for having some interesting underwater life!
Evening – Go wine tasting at sunset
How dreamy does wine tasting at sunset sound? Honestly, if you love wine, this Santorini wine tasting tour is an absolute must!
Make sure to book the afternoon version of this tour, which starts at 3:30 or 4 pm, depending on the sunset time that month. Conveniently, the tour offers hotel pickup, so head back to your hotel after exploring Red Beach to get cleaned up before heading out again.
This tour will take you to three of the island’s top wineries, where you’ll try 12 to 15 different wines in total. What made this tour special for me is that we got to try unique local wines, including Assyrtiko, Nykteri, and the famous sweet Vinsanto. Better still, they were paired with yummy local cheese, olives, and freshly baked bread.
But of course, the highlight of this tour is the final stop at a breathtaking clifftop winery, which offers panoramic views of Santorini’s coastline. I had to pinch myself as we sipped wine and watched the sunset here, because it really did feel too good to be true. So all in all, I’d say it’s a pretty epic way to end your second day in Santorini!
Read thousands of 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Related Read: If you like this guide, check out our three days in Athens itinerary—it’s the perfect way to kick off or continue your Greek adventure.
Day 3
Option 1: Fira to Oia Hike
Today, we’re presenting you with two options so that you can tailor your itinerary to suit your travel style. If you’re an active traveler, the famous Fira to Oia hike offers breathtaking caldera views. But if you’re more of a foodie, then you can eat your way through Fira on a five-star food tour instead.
Breakfast – Magma City Cafe
Magma City Cafe is the perfect place to fuel up before this morning’s hike! We love this place partly for its excellent breakfast and partly because it doesn’t get super busy in the morning, so it’s a peaceful place to eat. They have western classics like pancakes, eggs, and bacon—plus locally inspired Greek dishes as well!
Morning – Fira to Oia Hike
The Fira to Oia hike pairs adventure with jaw-dropping views, hence why we love it so much! It’s a 10-kilometer (6-mile trail) that hugs the caldera as it winds through the scenic towns of Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli, and finally Oia. Along the way, you’ll pass whitewashed churches, dramatic cliffs, and endless panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, so bring your camera (and plenty of water!)
The hike normally takes between 3 and 5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos. We suggest starting early to beat the heat and make sure you keep topping up your sunscreen.
This is a one-way hike, and most people tend to go from Fira to Oia because it offers the best views and a slightly easier incline. However, you can do it in either direction, depending on where you’re staying. Still, if you start from Fira, then the trail officially starts near the Atlantis Hotel, and it’s well-marked along the way, so you’re unlikely to get lost.
After you’ve completed the hike, pat yourself on the back and grab a refreshment in Oia. You will definitely have earned a cold one! Then, head back to your hotel to rest and freshen up before this afternoon’s catamaran cruise, which departs at 3:30 pm.
Option 2: Food tour
If wandering through scenic streets, tasting incredible local dishes, sipping on wine, and learning about Santorini’s food culture sounds like your kind of thing, then this Santorini food tour is a must!
Book this tour for 10 am, as that way it will serve as both breakfast and lunch for today. It doesn’t run on Sundays, so you may need to switch days two and three around if your third day in Santorini happens to be a Sunday.
The tour starts and ends in Fira. As the island’s capital, it boasts a big range of foodie hotspots, and on this tour, we got to visit the best of them, from local tavernas and bakeries to specialty shops.
Everywhere we visited was authentic and local, and we tried everything from souvlaki and tomato fritters to creamy fava and fresh seafood. Then, just when we thought we couldn’t eat another bite, out came the loukoumades – Greek honey-soaked donuts. And yes, they were as delicious as they sound!
Of course, no Greek food tour is complete without some local wine, and we got to sip a crisp glass while soaking in the caldera views. For food and wine lovers, this tour really is the whole package. No wonder it has hundreds of glowing reviews!
And just a heads up – this tour almost always sells out, so don’t hesitate to book! There’s free cancellation, so you’ve got nothing to lose.
Book this top-rated food tour here while spaces are still available!
Evening – Enjoy a sunset Catamaran cruise
Cap off an epic trip to Santorini with this sunset catamaran cruise. It departs at 3:30 pm and picks you up right from your hotel, so in terms of logistics, it really couldn’t be easier. Dinner and drinks are included too!
You will have seen a lot of Santorini by now, but admiring its dramatic landscape from out on the water is a whole new experience. Plus, there are swimming and snorkeling stops at iconic spots like Red Beach, White Beach, and even the island’s volcanic hot springs.
The water was so clear we could see the seabed from the deck, and every stop felt more beautiful than the last. We absolutely loved the chance to jump in and cool off between sailing stretches, although the warm waters near the volcano felt more like a natural spa!
Meanwhile, on board, there was a laid-back vibe and the crew were super attentive and friendly. We were super impressed by the food, which included grilled chicken, fresh prawns, Greek salads, and more, all cooked right on the boat!
This cruise was such a magical way to experience a famous Santorini sunset, and we would do it again in a heartbeat. And we’re not the only ones—check out THOUSANDS of five-star reviews here!
Book your Santorini sunset cruise here with FREE cancellation!
Related Read: Heading to Naxos next? Don’t miss our guide to the 9 best things to do in Naxos, from scenic villages to stunning beaches and unforgettable local eats.
Where to Stay in Santorini, Greece
Now that you’ve got the perfect Santorini itinerary sorted, it’s time to find a great place to stay. Choosing the right accommodation can make all the difference to your trip, so to help you out, I’ve listed the top options for every budget range below!
Luxury – $$$
Santorini Kastelli Resort is a luxurious five-star stay just a short walk from Kamari Beach, and a 10-15 minute drive from Fira. And not only does it boast a prime location, it also features 2 swimming pools, a spa, a fitness center, and an excellent on-site restaurant. With elegant rooms and suites with private terraces, it offers a peaceful place to stay that still puts you close to shops, restaurants, and the island’s most famous attractions.
Prices vary depending on the time of year but usually start between €150–€300 per night. You can check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Loizos Stylish Residences is a great mid-range option in Fira, just a short walk from the town center. It offers a range of modern rooms and apartments, some with kitchenettes, balconies, and even private hot tubs! There’s also an outdoor pool to enjoy, which you’ll definitely be grateful for because Santorini gets pretty warm during the summer months. All in all, this is a comfortable, convenient, and relatively affordable base for exploring Santorini.
Prices usually start between €140 and €200 per night. You can book this stay on Booking.com!
Budget – $
Porto Castello is a budget-friendly hotel located in Exo Gialos, just a short drive from Fira. The hotel offers simple, comfortable rooms, each with a private bathroom and balcony. Guests can enjoy an outdoor pool and a free shuttle service to the town center, which is a huge win for the budget-conscious among us!
Rooms can start as low as €50 per night. You can reserve your room here on Booking.com!
For more options, see all of the hotels in Santorini here!
Renting a Car in Europe
Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.
We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Europe
- Know the local rules: Most European countries drive on the right-hand side, except for the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta, where you’ll drive on the left. Some countries also have unique road signs or rules, so it’s worth doing a quick check before you go.
- Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. Also, a compact car is great for narrow village roads or tight city parking. With Discover Cars, it’s super easy to filter for exactly what you need, whether that’s an automatic, a diesel engine, or extra luggage space.
- Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
- Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Santorini truly lives up to the hype, and we hope this 3-day itinerary helps you make the most of your time on the island. We followed this exact plan and felt it offered a great mix of famous sights, local gems, and time to relax. From swimming at Red Beach to cliffside dinners and unforgettable sunsets at sea, every day felt special.
If you’re continuing your travels near Greece, don’t miss our other Europe blogs here. Or check out some of our favorites below to help you plan the rest of your adventure!
10 Best Things to do in Santorini, Greece