The Ultimate Santorini Greece Itinerary for 2, 3 or 4 Days
In October, I took a 3-week-long solo trip to Santorini. I spent a full two days there and based on my experiences I’m expanding this Santorini Greece itinerary with recommendations for spending 2, 3 or 4 days there.
This way, you can adapt it based on how much time you’ll have there yourself!
Santorini Greece itinerary: Quick View
Here’s a high level overview of what’s included in this Santorini itinerary. You can pick and choose whatever sounds most interesting to you whether you’re seeing Santorini in 2 days, 3, or 4.
Day 1: Megalochori, Pyrgos, Winery tour, Outdoor cinema
Day 2: Fira-Oia hike, Catamaran cruise
Day 3 Oia, Ammoudi Bay, Private island tour, Greek Wedding Show
Day 4: Cooking class, Souvenir shopping, Spa experience
Santorini 2 day itinerary
I went from not wanting to visit this island, to believing Santorini is worth a visit for sure.
Day 1
Arrive / breakfast
If you’re planning to take on Santorini in 2 days, try to make them two full days. If you can, either arrive late the night before or early in the morning of your first day.
Begin your day with a lovely breakfast spread, either at your hotel or one of Santorini’s many cafes.
For something on the lighter side, I especially enjoyed the Greek yogurt bowl at Stolen Fruit in Fira, the freddo cappuccino with cream at Coffee Island – yum.
Explore Megalochori and Pyrgos
There’s a lot more to Santorini than what meets the eye on Santorini Instagram posts. Oia, Fira and even the in-between town of Imerovigli have become extremely popularized.
But there are also opportunities to get off the beaten path and visit smaller, quieter, more traditional villages in Santorini. Start by catching a bus to Megalochori – A charming and picturesque part of the island.
The hotel manager where I was staying advised me to take the bus from Fira to Perissa, getting off at the Megalochori stop.
But the bus driver on the route to Perissa redirected me to take the bus headed to Akrotiri, saying that would get me to Megalochori faster.
I followed his guidance and all was well.
Wander through its winding streets, stop in at any shops or cafes that look appealing and snap plenty of photos in this less crowded area.
You can also check out a traditional cave house which offers free entry (although you can leave an optional donation as you enter).
Once you’ve had your fill, make your way to Pyrgos. One option for getting there is by taking the bus headed back to Fira. When you step on, ask the driver to make a stop at Pyrgos (note that some buses run express).
Another, is to walk. While I was waiting at the bus station I struck up a conversation with a couple who told me I could simply walk to Pyrgos.
You can watch a bit of how that went for me, here.
Basically, partway into my walk the sidewalk disappeared. Apparently this is commonplace in Greece but the area I was in was a pretty busy road so I had a bit of a frightening first part of my walk!
Maybe stick with the bus…
When you arrive in Pyrgos, make your way to Penelope’s where you can sit and enjoy a snack or drink with pretty views over the city. Then, explore some of the shops as you may find the souvenirs here slightly better-priced than in Oia or Fira.
Eventually, you’ll make your way to Pyrgos castle. While I visited during the day and this itinerary has you doing the same, you can also get great sunset views from Pyrgos with far fewer crowds.
Another beloved place to swing by before leaving Pyrgos is Franco’s Cafe, right next to the castle.
SantoWines Winery
Santorini’s volcanic soil gives it an ideal wine-growing environment.
A short walk away from Pyrgos is one of the island’s most popular wine tasting spots: SantoWines Winery. You can either book a customized tasting, a winery tour + tasting or a table at their restaurant for lunch or dinner with a caldera view.
Be sure to book in advance through their website or by contacting them. If there is no availability for your dates, or if you want a broader tasting experience book this tour.
It includes a visit to 3 different wineries (I believe including SantoWines!), 12 wine tastings and tapas.
👉 Book your Santorini wineries experience
Dinner + sunset
Make your way back to Fira by bus. If you have a bit of time, explore the many shops lining its narrow winding streets.
Then, have dinner (reserve in advance) at Naoussa Restaurant for a caldera view at sunset. Or if you’ve booked a hotel with caldera view, you can enjoy a private viewing there!
I did not dine at Naoussa myself so cannot speak to the food. But I’m recommending it because I stayed at the hotel next door and can speak for the great sunset views from this area.
Mamma Mia movie night
If you’re looking for a fun way to spend your first evening but you’re not into the party scene, have yourself an outdoor movie night instead!
I passed by Volkan Cinema during my walk along the Fira to Oia trail and couldn’t miss the signs for its nightly Mamma Mia showing. What better way to kick off your time in Santorini than by watching a classic in an open-air, cliffside theater?
Be sure to contact them in advance to book your seats and to confirm what time the movie will play, as it varies.
Day 2
Early morning hike
Start your second day off early to beat the sun and hit the Fira to Oia hiking trail. You’ll want to bring along water, a hat, sunscreen and maybe some snacks as you set out on this beautiful route.
You can hike this trail in either direction, depending on where you’re staying. I did not do the full hike during this visit to Santorini, but more of an abbreviated version beginning in Fira. Completing the full hike is on my list of things to do on my next visit back.
It’s important to note that there’s no shaded area along this path, and that parts of the path are steep and rocky. Make sure you’re wearing comfortable shoes and clothes you can be active in.
You don’t have to treat this as a round-trip hike (unless you want to). Hike from one end to the other, and then catch a bus back to wherever you’re staying.
Breakfast at hotel
After your early hike you’ll definitely want to fuel up. Most hotels include breakfast as part of your room rate. So, either head back for a nice breakfast wherever you’re staying or stop in at a breakfast cafe.
Catamaran cruise
After a busy first day and your morning hike, take it easy before spending the rest of your afternoon and evening on a catamaran cruise.
This semi-private, premium catamaran cruise includes a bbq meal, drinks, swimming and snorkeling opportunities, sightseeing, hotel pickup and dropoff and a sunset viewing.
It’s the perfect way to enjoy the sea and observe the island from a different angle. Plus, you’ll get up close and personal with the sunset without all the crowds.
👉 Secure your spot on the catamaran cruise
Santorini 3 day itinerary
If you’re planning a Santorini itinerary for 3 days, there’s plenty more to do. Here’s what you might consider adding to your plans if you’re seeing Santorini in 3 days.
Day 3
Photoshoot in Oia
Whether you decide to book with a professional photographer or snap your own photos, you’ll find Oia really is as beautiful as people say. Still, because of its beauty, it really does get overcrowded to the point where it may not be enjoyable.
To counter that, start as early as you can. I took the first bus from Fira to Oia and arrived before 8:00 am.
There was already a line forming at the popular 3 domes viewpoint, and photographers flitting about with their subjects capturing sunrise memories before the streets were flooded with people.
But you can take a page out of my book – skip all the lines and take advantage of wandering through Oia’s pretty pathways before all the shops and restaurants are even open.
👉 Book an Oia Flying Dress Photo Shoot
Swimming and lunch at Ammoudi Bay
Next, grab a quick bite or a snack and make your way down to Amoudi Bay. There’s a steep staircase down to a picturesque swimming area. Spend your morning enjoying the sun and the sea here.
At 11:00am, Ammoudi Fish Tavern opens and you can settle in for a delicious seaside lunch – but look into making reservations in advance as it’s a popular spot.
To get back up from Ammoudi Bay, you can either climb back up the steep staircase or ask the restaurant to call you a taxi.
Alternatively, if you decide to book a private tour as I have listed next on the itinerary, ask the driver to pick you up from here.
Private day tour of the island
There’s still a lot of Santorini left to explore. The most efficient and comfortable way to go about it is to book a customizable private tour for the duration of your choosing – between 4 to 8 hours.
Your guide can help you co-create your tour itinerary based on your unique preferences. Some points of interest to consider: Red Beach, Akrotiri Archaeological site, Perissa Black Sand Beach, Windmills of Emporio, Art Space, Ftelos Brewery.
Wedding Show
After your day tour, get ready for an evening out. Start with dinner, then make your way to the Greek Wedding show for a unique and lively night of entertainment!
This is an interactive show where you are immersed in a traditional Greek wedding scene. You’ll enjoy light appetizers, traditional dances, live music and plate-smashing! Best of all, you’ll be able to join in on all the fun as an active participant.
👉 Get your tickets to the Greek Wedding show
Santorini 4 day itinerary
Day four of your Santorini Greece itinerary is about slowing down the pace a bit.
Day 4
Cooking Class
Sleep in and enjoy a light breakfast before joining a traditional Santorini cooking class hosted in a cave home. You’ll make Greek dishes, sip on local wines and then enjoy the meal together with your host and fellow travelers.
You’ll also get the recipes for all that you cook, so you can recreate the dishes once you’re back home if you like.
👉 Book a traditional Greek cooking class
Souvenir Shop
Once you’re full from your home-cooked meal, walk it off as you shop for souvenirs to bring home. Pick up some ION chocolate bars from a supermarket, and some Greek skincare products from a local pharmacy.
If there was a dress, piece of jewelry, olive wood cutting board or anything else that caught your eye earlier on in your trip today is the day to seal the deal with a purchase.
Spa
Drop your goods off back at your hotel and make your way to your pre-booked spa appointment at Cave Santorini Spa. You can choose from a variety of rejuvenating massages, body treatments or face treatments.
A little pampering is a perfect way to unwind from the adventures of your last several days before leaving Santorini.
Revisit any favorites or missed places
On your last day in Santorini, take stock of everything you’ve done so far. Were there places you swore you’d come back to or check out later? Revisit any of your missed or favorite spots one last time.
Then, head back to your accommodations to get ready for dinner. If I were you, I’d also begin doing some light packing now so there’s less of it to worry about later!
Sunset dinner
Enjoy your final Santorini sunset of the trip, either before or with dinner. If by this point in your trip you haven’t yet tried Domatokeftedes, then look for these Santorini tomato fritters on the menu.
Where to stay in Santorini
If you plan to use public transportation to get around, I recommend staying in Fira since that is where the main bus station is. If you can, snag a hotel room with a coveted caldera view. Note – a sea view is not the same as a caldera view!
🏨 Luxury: Hyperion Oia Suites
A heated pool, outdoor hot tub and spectacular views are among what awaits you at Hyperion Oia Suites. It’s a great stay for couples as well as families. The only caveat is, due to its prime location on the cliffs of Oia, there is a fair amount of stairs to climb going between the hotel and the center of Oia.
👉 Check prices and availability at Hyperion Oia Suites
🏨 Mid-Range: Cosmopolitan Suites
Located in the heart of Fira, Cosmopolitan Suites receives rave reviews for its friendly staff, delicious food and prime location. Rooms are stylish and comfortable, and there’s even an infinity pool on the premises overlooking the caldera.
👉 Check prices and availability at Cosmopolitan Suites
🏨 Budget: Aroma Suites
This is where I stayed and it was perfect for me as a solo traveler. I chose Aroma Suites for its location close to the Fira bus station, and for its incredible caldera views. Every morning, I enjoyed a Greek breakfast from my private balcony and every evening I was able to take in stunning sunsets without the crowds.
👉 Check prices and availability at Aroma Suites
How to get around in Santorini
There are several ways to get around in Santorini. You could rent a car if you prefer the freedom and flexibility of driving yourself around.
To get to and from the airport or port, I recommend booking a private transfer in advance.
Buses run fairly regularly, are affordable (2 euros) and pretty easy to figure out. However, you’re on someone else’s timetables and sometimes that can be frustrating or confusing.
I did have one instance in particular where I had to wait a very long time for the bus back to Fira from Pyrgos. But I believe this is because I missed one of the buses because it did not clearly show the destination it was headed to when it arrived.
To avoid something similar, when in doubt go up and ask the bus driver or the bus driver’s assistant – not a fellow passenger – whether a bus plans to make a stop at your destination.
Is there Uber in Santorini?
Yes, there is Uber in Santorini and I almost used it that day when I found myself waiting for a bus for a long time in the hot sun.
The Uber service is connected to the local taxi service, so when you request an Uber you’re actually calling a taxi. It’s certainly not the most affordable means of transportation but it is available.
Getting to Santorini
As for getting to Santorini, there are two main options – by sea or by air. Santorini has both an airport and a ferry port. I flew in from Rome, and departed by ferry to my next Cycladic island destination.
Santorini travel tips
Here are some additional travel tips to keep in mind while you’re in Santorini
- Get an eSIM so you can easily use Google maps, Uber app, etc.
- Don’t be put off by the bus drivers’ brusque demeanors. Be polite but straightforward when asking them questions. They know what they’re doing so trust them.
- Have euros on you for buses.
- Stick to bottled water for drinking. It’s okay to use tap water to brush your teeth
- In most, if not all, of Greece you cannot flush toilet paper. Instead, throw it in the trash bin.
- Tipping is not mandatory, but appreciated. In restaurants or cafes, 10-15% is reasonable. For taxis, you can round up from whatever the meter says.
Common questions
As you finalize your trip details, here are some key points to consider:
How many days in Santorini is enough?
Even 2 days in Santorini are enough, but with more time you can experience even more of what the island has to offer.
Where to go in Santorini, Greece for first timers?
If it’s your first time in Santorini, you’ll likely want to see Oia and complete the Fira-Oia hike. But it’s equally worth it to get out to lesser discussed villages such as Pyrgos and Megalochori.
