Curator’s statement
Santorini, nestled within the Cyclades archipelago in the Aegean Sea, is celebrated for its mesmerizing beauty and rich history. The island's dramatic landscapes, marked by whitewashed buildings perched on cliffs above the blue sea, are renowned worldwide. Its famous sunsets, drenched in shades of orange and pink, create an enchanting atmosphere that beckons travelers from all corners of the globe. Whether strolling through the narrow streets of its charming villages, savoring delicious Mediterranean cuisine or lounging on its volcanic beaches, Santorini promises an unforgettable journey that enchants the senses and captures the heart.
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Day 1: Arrival in Santorini
In truth, three days isn't enough to fully explore Santorini, but you can still make the most of it with a well-planned itinerary.
Check into your hotel, unpack and take a moment to relax while enjoying the stunning views. Make the most of the hotel amenities before venturing out to explore Santorini.
Head to Oia, the most iconic village in Santorini. Wander through the narrow streets, do some shopping and marvel at the unique architecture. To catch the famous sunset, head early to the ruins of the Venetian Castle of Agios Nikolaos, as it can get quite crowded.
After the sunset, dine at one of the romantic restaurants in Oia. If a dinner with a view is a priority, be sure to make reservations in advance.
Day 2: Discover Santorini
Morning
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. You have a few options for exploring Santorini today:
Option 1: Take a 5-hour private tour. Customize your itinerary, though most tours typically include Oia, Firostefani, Imerovigli, Pyrgos, Saint Elias Monastery, the Red Beach and the Black Beach.
Option 2: For the adventurous, start early and hike from Fira (6.5 miles), Firostefani (5.7 miles) or Imerovigli (5.1 miles) to Oia. The hike offers breathtaking views of the caldera. For lunch, visit a traditional taverna in Oia.
Afternoon
Enjoy a wine tasting session at one of Santorini's wineries with caldera views. Santo Wines is a popular choice.
Evening
In the evening, return to your hotel or explore Santorini's nightlife if that interests you.
Day 3: Sail Away
After breakfast, take time to enjoy the hotel’s amenities and soak in the surroundings.
Afternoon
At 3:30pm, embark on a sunset cruise or a private sunset cruise. The tour departs from Vlychada Port, following the coast to the Red Beach and the Old Venetian Lighthouse, and exploring natural formed sea caves. Discover volcanic landscapes and enjoy a dip in the Hot Springs. Conclude your trip by experiencing the magic of Santorini’s unique sunsets one last time.
Travel Advisor
Norma Karavithas
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Santorini. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Devang Patel's guide, Exploring Santorini: A Journey Through Greece's Paradise.