3 days in santorini

3 Days in Santorini: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Timers

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When you picture Santorini, Greece, chances are the blue domes, whitewashed houses, and dramatic sunsets come to mind. I spent 3 days in Santorini on my trip to Greece, and it was the perfect balance of sightseeing, hiking, and soaking in the island’s famous views. If you’ve been wondering what to do in Santorini in three days, this itinerary will help you maximize your time, if Santorini is one of the Greek Islands you choose to visit.

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Where is Santorini?

Santorini is part of the Cyclades islands in the southern Aegean Sea, about 120 miles southeast of Athens.

The island itself was shaped by one of the largest volcanic eruptions in history around 1600 BC. That eruption collapsed part of the island and created the caldera you see today—a deep basin surrounded by steep cliffs. This volcanic history is why Santorini has such dramatic landscapes, black and red sand beaches, and fertile soil that produces excellent wine.

Fira, Santorini

How to Get to Santorini

There are two main ways to reach Santorini: by air or by ferry.

If you’re coming from Athens, flying is the fastest option, with direct flights taking about 45 minutes. It’s the easiest way to start your trip without losing much time. Ferries are another popular choice, leaving from the ports of Piraeus and Rafina. Depending on the type of ferry, the journey can take anywhere from five to eight hours. While the ferry is slower, it can be a memorable way to arrive, sailing right into the caldera with amazing views of the cliffs of Santorini.

If you’re traveling from other islands such as Mykonos, Paros, or Naxos, high-speed ferries connect directly to Santorini. If you’re prone to seasickness, I’d recommend flying, but if you have the time and want the scenic route, the ferry is worth it.

Map of Santorini

3 Days in Santorini Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Fira

Start your trip by getting to know Fira, the capital of Santorini. It’s the hub of the island, full of energy, with winding streets, colorful shops, and endless caldera views. Spending your first day here helps you settle in and gives you a sense of how the island moves.

Things to see and do in Fira:

  • Stroll along the cliffside paths for panoramic views of the caldera.
  • Visit the Archaeological Museum of Thera to learn more about the island’s past.
  • Step inside the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral, a landmark with striking frescoes.
  • Take the cable car down to the Old Port, or if you’re adventurous, walk the steep steps instead.
  • Browse through the boutiques, art galleries, and shops scattered around town.
Street in Fira

Where to eat (some of my favorites):

  • Lucky’s Souvlaki, across from the bus station, is the go-to spot for an inexpensive and authentic gyro. This was the best souvlaki I had during my whole trip.
  • For dinner, head out of the main area to  Fusionelle Restaurant, which offers modern Greek dishes. It was a great atmosphere and the food was really good!
  • Gelato and Ice Cream is a big thing in Santorini. Many places serve it. I may have had it a few times, and I never had a bad experience! My favorite was Kayak Ice Cream!
  • End the night at Two Brothers Bar, a lively spot known for its cocktails and fun atmosphere. I met some great people there and had lots of fun.
Two Brothers Bar

Day 2: Hike Fira to Oia

The Fira to Oia hike is the highlight of many trips to Santorini. The six-mile trail runs along the caldera and takes between two and four hours, depending on your pace. Start early to avoid the heat, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water. This is nothing like walking around Athens. This was one of the best parts of my trip!

Along the way, you’ll pass through Imerovigli, a quieter village with spectacular views. Small chapels dot the trail, giving you plenty of chances to pause and enjoy the scenery. Once in Oia, if you want to spend the day, you can wander through the charming alleys and find a terrace where you can watch the famous sunset.

fira to oia hike

Note: You know those famous blue domes that you think are all over Santorini? They are not. You will find some here and there, but they are not as prevalent as you may think. Trust me, I spent an hour trying to find more!

blue dome-oia

Where to eat:

  • For something casual after the hike, there are plenty of restaurants and tavernas in the town center serving fresh seafood and Greek classics.
  • I visited Vitrin Cafe Creperie and had a refreshing drink and amazing crepes!

Once you are done, head to the bus station and take the bus back to Fira, unless you want to attempt to hike back again!

vitrin cafe creperie

Day 3: Akrotiri and Megalochori

There are many small villages and towns outside of Fira and Oia that are worth visiting—Pyrgos, Emporio, and Kamari are just a few. Each has its own character, from hilltop castles to black sand beaches. With just one more day, I decided to take the bus south from Fira and spend time in Megalochori and Akrotiri. These stops give you a glimpse of traditional village life and the island’s incredible history.

Start your morning by taking the local bus from Fira, south towards Megalochori. This traditional village is quieter than the main towns, with cobblestone streets, small churches, and no cars! Yes, vehicles are not allowed in the village. It’s the perfect place to slow down, wander without a plan, and enjoy a more local side of the island.

Megalocohori

From Megalochori, hop back on the bus and continue south to Akrotiri. The ancient ruins here are one of the most fascinating places in Greece. Once a thriving Minoan city, it was buried in volcanic ash around 1600 BC, leaving homes, streets, and artifacts astonishingly well-preserved. Walking through the covered site feels like stepping back in time.

Akrotiri

After touring Akrotiri, take a short walk to Red Beach. The dramatic red cliffs and blue water create one of Santorini’s most unique landscapes. It’s not the best beach for swimming, but it’s worth seeing. Take a quick break and enjoy a drink or meal at one of the seaside restaurants.

To finish the day, head back to Fira for dinner and enjoy one last evening overlooking the caldera. This day gives you a balance of history, nature, and authentic village life—an essential part of any Santorini in three days itinerary.

Red Beach

Where to Stay in Santorini

During my visit, I stayed at Anatoli Hotel & Spa in Fira, which I highly recommend. It was a lovely place to stay with an amazing spa, pool, spacious rooms, and easy walking access to the heart of town. I loved how close it was to restaurants, nightlife, and the bus station, which made getting around the island easy. Make sure you get a room that has a private jacuzzi. It’s great to soak in it after a long day of walking.

The Cave Winery Spa, at the Anatoli Hotel, made the whole experience of staying in Santorini that much better! Even if you do not stay at this hotel, make sure you visit the spa for a massage or other services.

Anatoli Hotel

If you’d like to splurge in Fira, consider the Hotel Atlantis Santorini. It’s one of the only hotels right on the caldera edge in the capital, offering unbeatable views. Staying here gives you luxury and convenience, with Fira’s lively energy just steps away.

View from outside Hotel Atlantis

For those looking beyond Fira, Katikies in Oia is a beautiful choice if you want private terraces and the kind of caldera sunsets Santorini is famous for. In Imerovigli, Avaton Resort is perfect for travelers who want a quieter setting with sweeping views between Fira and Oia—ideal for couples or anyone looking to slow down.

Where you stay depends on your style of trip. Fira works well if you want easy access to transportation, plenty of restaurants, and nightlife. Oia is the dream choice for luxury and sunset views, but it’s more expensive.. If you’d rather enjoy a peaceful atmosphere without losing the views, Imerovigli offers a perfect balance with a more intimate vibe.

Weather in Santorini

  • Spring (April–May)
  • Spring is one of the best times to visit Santorini. Temperatures range from 15–25°C (59–77°F), making it comfortable for walking around the towns and hiking the Fira to Oia trail. The island isn’t as crowded as in summer, so you can enjoy the views and villages with a bit more breathing room. I visited in May, which was perfect!
  • Summer (June–August)
  • Summer is peak season, with long sunny days and temperatures climbing to 25–35°C (77–95°F). The island is buzzing with energy, but it’s also crowded, especially in Oia at sunset. If you don’t mind the heat and the higher prices, summer guarantees the classic Santorini experience.
  • Fall (September–October)
  • Fall is similar to spring, with warm but manageable weather. Temperatures stay between 18–28°C (64–82°F), which is perfect for sightseeing, wine tasting, and evenings outside. Crowds thin out compared to August, making it one of the most balanced times to visit.
  • Winter (November–March)
  • Winter is the quietest season on the island. Temperatures range from 10–16°C (50–61°F), and while it’s too cool for swimming, it’s still mild compared to many parts of Europe. Some restaurants and hotels close for the season, but you’ll find peace and far fewer tourists if that’s what you’re after.
View from Hike

FAQs: Three Days In Santorini

Yes, three days in Santorini is just the right amount of time to see the highlights without feeling too rushed. You can enjoy the capital of Fira, hike to Oia, and visit historical sites like Akrotiri.

It depends on your priorities. Fira is central and lively, making it the best base for easy transportation and nightlife. Oia is more expensive but offers luxury and iconic sunset views. If you want a middle ground, Imerovigli is quieter while still offering spectacular scenery.

No, it’s not recommended. Stick to bottled water, which is widely available, and use tap water only for things like brushing your teeth or showering.

Don’t leave without hiking the Fira to Oia trail and experiencing at least one caldera-side dinner. These are the experiences that make Santorini unforgettable.

Yes, Santorini is one of the most visited destinations in Greece, especially because it has a port for cruises to stop at for the day. In my opinion, it is still worth visiting.

Final Thoughts on Your 3 Day Santorini Itinerary

Spending 3 days in Santorini gives you the chance to soak in the island’s beauty without feeling rushed. Between the whitewashed villages, dramatic caldera views, and unique local culture, every day feels different yet connected to what makes Santorini unforgettable. Whether you’re wandering lively towns, unwinding in quiet villages, or enjoying long meals with a view, three days is enough to leave you captivated and wanting to return.

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Melanie is the founder of The World Travel Girl. She has been traveling for over 14 years and decided to share her passion with others. She is a travel writer and travel planner who also loves hiking, birdwatching and watching wildlife. Her mission is to help every day people explore the outdoor world and connect with nature.