Santorini Itinerary – 4 Days in Santorini Travel Guide

Santorini is a picturesque Greek island in the southern Aegean Sea and one of the most popular islands of the Cyclades. It’s a relatively small island but offers so much diversity: from stunning beaches and natural wonders to picturesque villages and traditional Greek architecture, there’s something for everyone. Santorini has a charm that simply cannot be denied. I completely fell in love with the stunning views of the caldera and the breathtaking architecture with its iconic white houses and blue dome churches.

This travel guide provides you with the perfect Santorini itinerary for 4 days on the island, including the best things to do in Santorini and the must-visit places. With this 4-day itinerary, you’ll be able to make the most of your time on the island and get a true taste of what Santorini has to offer.

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4 Days in Santorini – Quick Tips

Best Place to Stay | Aqua Luxury Suites

Best Time to Visit | May, September, October

How to Get Around | Rental Car, Airport Transfer, Taxi, Private Driver, Bus, ATV, Walking

Top Places to Visit | Oia, Imerovigli, Fira, Pyrgos

Insider Tips | Emporio, Megalochori

Best Tours | Luxury Sunset Catamaran Cruise, Wine Tasting Tour, Santorini Highlights Tour

Stay Connected | Get your Europe eSIM

Keep reading for my complete Santorini travel guide!

How to Get to Santorini

Santorini can be reached by air or sea. There are many direct flights to Santorini Airport (JTR) from the major European cities. If you’re planning to visit Santorini from outside of Europe and arrive in Athens, the quickest and easiest way to get to Santorini is by taking another plane. Flights operate daily and it’s only a short 50-minute flight from Athens to Santorini. It’s also worth spending 2 days in Athens before visiting Santorini if you want to explore one of the world’s oldest cities. Athens is one of my favorite places in Europe when it comes to history.

Looking for a private airport transfer in Santorini? Click here to check prices & availability.

Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Athens’ port, Piraeus, which takes around 5 hours, depending on the type of ferry you choose. If you’re coming from another Greek island, there are ferries from Mykonos, Naxos, Crete and other neighboring islands to Santorini. Ferries are also the most convenient transportation option if you are planning an island hopping trip around the Greek islands. If you visit the Greek Islands during high season, I highly recommend booking your ferry tickets in advance.

💡 For a shared transfer to/from the ferry port or the airport, click here.

How to Get Around in Santorini

One of the best ways to get around Santorini is by renting a car. There are several car rental companies on the island, and renting a car can be affordable, especially if you’re traveling in a group or visit Santorini during off-season or shoulder season. We rented a car directly at the airport and loved the freedom and flexibility that a car gave us.

With a car you can explore the island at your own pace, stop whenever you like, and also visit some of the more remote places on the island. For us, getting a rental car is the best way to travel in Santorini.

However, if you’re not comfortable with driving on the winding and sometimes narrow roads in Santorini, you can also hire a private driver or take a taxi, which can be more expensive but will be more convenient.

Another popular way to get around Santorini is by bus. There are regular bus services that connect all major towns and villages on the island. The buses are air-conditioned and quite affordable. We took a bus to the ferry port at the end of our trip and everything went smoothly. However, the buses can get very crowded during peak season. Moreover, it’s harder to reach some of the more distant places and it will take more time to travel by bus compared to traveling by car.

If you’re feeling adventurous, another fun way to get around is by ATV. Many rental companies offer ATVs, which can be a great way to explore the island’s hidden gems.

Lastly, walking is another great way to get around the island if you focus your visit on the main villages. Santorini is full of pedestrian-friendly paths as well as hiking paths, especially in its picturesque villages of Oia, Imerovigli, and Fira. There is a hiking trail from Fira via Imerovigli to Oia, which is around 10.5 kilometers (6.5 miles) long. So, walking can be a great way to explore the island’s highlights while taking in the stunning scenery with the breathtaking views of the caldera and saving some money at the same time.

Best Time to Visit Santorini

The ideal time to visit Santorini is during the shoulder season, which falls between late April and May, and from late September to October. During these months, the weather is still warm and dry, but the crowds are thinner and the prices are more affordable. Plus, you can experience the island’s highlights and sunsets without having to fight for a spot with the masses. In peak season, from mid-June to August, the crowds can be overwhelming, and prices, especially for accommodation, skyrocket.

It is also possible to visit Santorini during off-season. However, you should keep in mind that some hotels and restaurants may be closed in winter and the weather won’t be as pleasant as during the rest of the year. We visited Santorini in the beginning of May and can highly recommend visiting the island during this time of the year. The only downside was that the iconic Bougainvillea flowers weren’t in bloom yet. We heard that they usually start to bloom around May, but maybe we were just unlucky because the month before we arrived was colder than usual.

Where to Stay in Santorini

If you visit Santorini for the first time, it can be a bit overwhelming to decide where to stay in Santorini. There are multiple options, each with its own unique charm. My top recommendations are Oia, Imerovigli and Fira.

Oia is located on the northern tip of the island and the most expensive option, but it offers absolutely breathtaking views of the picturesque village itself as well as the caldera. Staying in Oia gives you the advantage of experiencing the most popular village of Santorini with its white-washed buildings and picturesque blue domes without the crowds in the early morning and late evening.

➡️ Click here to see hotels and suites in Oia.

Imerovigli, situated in the middle of the caldera, is my personal favorite. Imerovigli is quieter and less crowded than Oia, but offers the same spectacular caldera views at a better price. It is also ideally located between Oia and Fira. That’s why we decided to stay in Imerovigli as a base. I really fell in love with this charming town and can highly recommend staying here. You won’t regret it! It’s also the perfect place to stay for honeymooners, in my opinion.

➡️ Click here for hotels in Imerovigli.

If you are looking for a cheaper option, Fira, the island’s capital, is a great choice. It’s the bustling hub of Santorini, with plenty of restaurants, shops, bars, and nightlife. It’s an excellent choice if you want a lively atmosphere and easy access to amenities, but it can also be very hectic and noisy. Plus, the views are not as impressive as in Oia or Imerovigli.

➡️ Click here for accommodation options in Fira.

Where we stayed:

My top pick: Aqua Luxury Suites ($$$)

The suites of Aqua Luxury Suites are located in prime spots in the village of Imerovigli. We absolutely loved staying here. The suites are uniquely designed and feature the iconic Cycladic all-white architecture combined with modern luxury. I especially loved the attention to details, the incredible hot tubs, and the stunning panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, the caldera, and the volcano. In addition, Aqua Luxury Suites features a lovely restaurant and spa, making it an ideal destination for a romantic getaway or a relaxing vacation. We stayed in two different suites (one night in each suite): Ioli Master Suite & Annabel’s Two Bedroom Suite. Both suites were phenomenal!

Xenones Filotera ($$)

Xenones Filotera is located in a peaceful location, a bit outside of Imerovigli, but still features breathtaking views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea. The hotel offers a range of luxurious amenities. I absolutely loved the large main swimming pool, which offers unobstructed caldera views. We stayed in one of their Caldera View Studios with a private hot tub on the terrace, which I can highly recommend.

Seven Suites ($$)

Seven Suites is a hidden gem in Imerovigli. The small boutique hotel is located in a central location in Imerovigli and offers amazing views of the surrounding vineyards and the Aegean Sea (but not caldera). We stayed in their beautiful Helios Suite. I especially loved the minimalistic design, the private hot tub, and the delicious breakfast served directly in the room.

In case you would like to check out some more amazing accommodation options in Santorini, I’ve compiled a list for you with 10 bucket-list hotels in Santorini with private pools and caldera views, that are perfect for a romantic getaway:

• Andronis Luxury Suites
• Canaves Oia Suites & Spa
• Echoes Luxury Suites
• Charisma Suites
• Old Castle Oia
• La Perla Villas and Suites
• Villa Bordeaux
• Athina Luxury Suites
• Aspaki by Art Maisons
• Sophia Luxury Suites

Santorini 4 Day Itinerary Overview

Planning a trip to Santorini, Greece? Here’s the perfect itinerary for seeing the best of Santorini in 4 days:

Day 1: Imerovigli and Fira

• Explore Imerovigli
• Hike (or drive) from Imerovigli to Fira
• Stroll through Fira
• Watch the sunset in Fira

Day 2: Oia from Sunrise till Sunset

• Enjoy the sunrise in Oia without the crowds
• Explore Oia
• Have lunch at Amoudi Bay
• Watch the sunset in Oia

Day 3: Santorini Island Road Trip

• Visit Pyrgos
• Enjoy the view from Profiti Ilia Monastery
• Lunch at Perissa Black Sand Beach
• Archaeological Site of Akrotiri
• Visit Red Beach
• Watch the sunset at the Akrotiri Lighthouse

Day 4: Unforgettable Experiences in Santorini

• Explore the villages of Emporio and Megalochori
• Enjoy a wine tasting for lunch
• Sunset cruise in Oia

For us, spending 4 full days in Santorini was the perfect trip length, but if you don’t have enough time to stay in Santorini for four days, here are some alternative options to customize your Santorini itinerary:

If you had only 2 days in Santorini:

If you only have two days in Santorini, I would recommend focusing on the caldera villages and their highlights (day 1 and 2 of our itinerary). By skipping the hikes on day 1, you could also include a few selected activities from day 3 and 4, for example a visit of Pyrgos, Emporio, and Megalochori, or a wine tasting tour.

🍷 Check out these top-rated wine tasting tours in Santorini:

• Half-Day Tour of 3 Wineries with Tasting
• Guided Wine Tasting Tour
• Sunset Wine Tour

If you had 3 days Santorini:

If you have three days in Santorini, I would recommend trying to fit in the activities of day 4 of our itinerary into the days 1 – 3 by exchanging some activities according to your personal preferences. Just to give you an example: you could skip watching the sunset directly in Oia on day 2 and do the sunset cruise during this time instead. This way you can still watch the sunset in Oia but from the sea instead of the village.

⛵ Here are the best sunset cruises in Oia:

• All-inclusive Luxury Catamaran Cruise (small group) – we did this tour!
• Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Greek Meal & Open Bar (small group)
• Premium Catamaran Cruise with BBQ & Drinks (budget option)
• Private Catamaran Sunset Cruise All-inclusive (private)

Day Trips in Santorini:

Another alternative while you’re on the island, is to join an organized day trip in Santorini to see as much of the island’s highlights as possible without having to stress about transportation and where to go next.

✨ Here are some top-rated tours in Santorini that you might want to check out:

• Santorini Private Highlights Tour (my top tip)
• Santorini Highlights Tour
• Traditional Sightseeing Tour

In the following, you can find our complete Santorini travel itinerary with more details about what to do in Santorini in 4 days.

Santorini Itinerary 4 Days – Ultimate Guide

Day 1: Imerovigli and Fira

Explore Imerovigli

Nestled atop a cliff in Santorini lies the charming village of Imerovigli, also known as the “balcony of the Aegean”. Imerovigli offers stunning panoramic views of the caldera and belongs to my absolute favorite places in Santorini. Aside from enjoying the breathtaking scenery, you should explore the unique architecture of the village as you wander through Imerovigli’s narrow streets and alleys. Make sure to stop by the Church of the Resurrection of the Lord. The blue domed church is the perfect spot to take a few pictures of Santorini’s iconic architecture with the majestic caldera in the background.

The village is also known for its numerous restaurants and bars, offering delicious local cuisine with a remarkable view. It’s the perfect place for lunch or a romantic dinner with a view during your 4 days in Santorini.

If you are a hiking lover, you can hike the unique Skaros Rock, which used to be a fortress. The scenic hiking path offers stunning views of Imerovigli, the surrounding cliffs, and the Aegean Sea. The hike takes around 1.5 hours (return) and is moderately challenging. Behind the rock, you will find a lovely little chapel (Mother of Lord Theoskepasti Holy Orthodox Church). We made a stop there and admired the panoramic views for a while. If you visit Santorini during the summer months, the best time to embark on this hike is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the scorching heat of the midday sun.

Hike (or Drive) from Imerovigli to Fira

After exploring Imerovigli, you can hike the popular path from Imerovigli to Fira. The 2 km (1.24 miles) well-marked trail takes you along the caldera cliffs and offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea, the volcanic islands, and the picturesque villages perched on the edge of the cliff. The hike is relatively easy and takes around 30 – 45 minutes to complete. Nevertheless, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes for the hike and bringing enough water and sunscreen. You should also avoid the midday sun if you visit during high season. Alternatively, you can also drive or take a taxi from Imerovigli to Fira. It only takes 5 to 10 minutes. This gives you more time to enjoy other activities suggested in our Santorini itinerary.

These articles may also pique your interest: 4 Days in Paros – Travel Guide + 3 Days in Ios, Greece – Itinerary

Stroll through Fira

Fira (or Thira) is the island’s capital city and a must-see when visiting Santorini in 4 days. The town, which is also perched on the cliffs, is characterized by whitewashed buildings, buzzing streets, and beautiful churches. Moreover, Fira is known for its many restaurants, bars, and clubs. Take a stroll through the charming cobblestone streets and explore what the lively town has to offer.

Fira’s top sights include the Fira Theotokopoulos Main Square, which is surrounded by shops and cafes, the Museum of Prehistoric Thira, which showcases old artifacts and informs about the island’s history, the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral, a 19th-century church with impressive frescoes and a bell tower, and the famous Three Bells of Fira, an 18^th-century church located at the top of a cliff with unparalleled views of the Aegean Sea. Another church you can stop by is the St. John the Theologian Holy Orthodox Church, which makes for a great picture with a scenic backdrop.

After exploring every corner of the old town, we got hungry and had a late afternoon lunch at Aris restaurant, with amazing views of the caldera. If you decide to dine here, make sure to try their delicious vegan Moussaka – it was to die for!

If you have enough time, another popular activity in Fira is taking a cable car down to the old port, where boats depart for the nearby islands of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni, home to a volcanic crater and hot springs.

Watch the Sunset in Fira

After an exciting first day in Santorini, it’s time to watch your first stunning Greek island sunset. Our favorite spot to watch the sunset in Fira is the old city wall, which offers an uninterrupted view of the Aegean Sea and the town’s white-washed buildings. It was a truly magical experience to watch the sun set behind the horizon while soaking in the dreamy views of the caldera. For me, watching the sunset every day is a must when visiting Santorini! It’s the perfect way to end the day!

Tip: If you want to watch the sunset at the old city wall in Fira, make sure to arrive early enough to secure yourself a good spot on the wall.

Day 2: Oia from Sunrise till Sunset

Enjoy the Sunrise in Oia Without the Crowds

Kick-start your second day early with a visit to Oia. Watching the sunrise in Oia is an experience that I can highly recommend to anyone who wants to peacefully enjoy the most popular place in Santorini or take pictures of the village’s iconic sights without the crowds. Watching the sun gradually peek out from the horizon, casting a warm glow on the iconic pastel-colored buildings and blue-domed churches, truly took my breath away. The early morning is also the perfect time to capture those quintessential postcard pictures of Santorini. Some great places to watch the sunrise are the famous Three Blue Domes and the Oia Castle.

After enjoying the morning tranquility in Oia and taking lots of pictures, it’s time for breakfast. There are many cute cafes in Oia that you can try during your 4 days in Santorini. We had breakfast at Karma Greek Restaurant, which is located in a charming courtyard. They have lots of amazing breakfast options and everything we had was super delicious. I can totally recommend coming here for breakfast. This place is such a vibe!

Explore Oia

After breakfast, it’s time to get lost in the narrow cobblestoned streets of Oia. Since Oia is the island’s most famous village, our Santorini itinerary suggests spending the whole day here (like we did) when visiting Santorini for four days. However, it is also possible to visit the main sights in only a few hours and spend the afternoon in another village or relax at your hotel if you like.

The best way to explore Oia is to just stroll through the charming alleys and get lost in the maze-like lanes of the village. For the best views of Oia, make sure to visit the iconic Oia Castle, where you can take in unparalleled views of the whole village, including the famous blue domes, the windmills, the surrounding cliffs, and the charming Amoudi Bay.

Other popular sights include the Naval Maritime Museum, which provides insight into the island’s seafaring history, and the many art galleries, which display different exhibitions, arts, and local crafts. You can also wander through the colorful shops and savor local delicacies at one of the many delicious restaurants.

If you are looking for the best photo spots in Santorini, here are some of my favorite places:

• Three Blue Domes Viewpoint
• Oia Castle
• Windmill of Oia
• Kastro Oia Houses
• Atlantis Books
• Church of Agois Nikolaos
• Church of Panagia Akathistos Hymn
• Amoudi Bay

In case you don’t want to search for these spots yourself, you can also join this private Oia Best Photo Spots Tour, which takes you to the most instagrammable places in Oia. Your guide will also assist you in taking stunning pictures.

Alternatively, if you want a full professional photo shoot experience in Santorini that you will never forget, make sure to check out these top-rated photo shoot options:

• 📸 Santorini Photo Shoot with a Professional Photographer – a beautiful memory of your special moments in Santorini
• 💃 Iconic High-Fashion Flying Dress Photo Shoot – a once in a lifetime experience!

You might also be interested in: Best Photo Spots in Mykonos

— My Travel Photography Gear —

Camera: Sony A7R III
Allrounder Zoom Lens: Sigma 24-70mm F/2.8
Favorite Lens: Sony FE 35mm F/1.8
Telephoto Zoom Lens: Sigma 100-400mm F/5-6.3
Drone: DJI Mini 3 Pro
GoPro: GoPro Hero11 Black
Phone: iPhone 12 Pro Max
Camera Tripod: Rollei Compact Traveler No. 1 Carbon
Phone Tripod: Lammcou Tripod

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

To read more about my photography gear, click HERE.

Have Lunch at Amoudi Bay

Nestled below the charming village of Oia lies the tranquil and picturesque Amoudi Bay (also Ammoudi Bay). This secluded cove boasts crystal clear water, colorful houses, and an array of authentic tavernas serving freshly caught seafood. It’s one of my favorite places in Santorini and a must-visit place for a delicious lunch right by the water. To reach Amoudi Bay, you have to walk down almost 300 steps from Oia, but it’s well worth it. The path offers panoramic views of the village and the Aegean Sea.

After lunch, you can enjoy a refreshing swim, sunbathe or relax on the rocky shore, or take a boat ride to explore nearby secluded coves and hidden beaches. If you are an adventurous soul, the bay is also popular for cliff jumping. We spent quite a while at Amoudi Bay and soaked in the charming vibes of this place.

In the evening, the bay transforms into a romantic hideaway, with the sun setting behind the seascapes and the twinkling lights of the tavernas creating a romantic ambiance. So, it’s also a great place to come back for a special dinner during your 4 days in Santorini.

Watch the Sunset in Oia

Oia is known for its spectacular sunsets, so this 4-day Santorini itinerary would not be complete without watching one of the famous Oia sunsets. Most people watch the sunset from the Oia Castle or from one of the many rooftop restaurants and bars, but my tip is to watch the sunset from the old Byzantine Castle Ruins to truly enjoy this magical moment without the tourist crowds. Instead of walking up to the castle, just follow the path leading down to Amoudi Bay until you see the old ruins on the left-hand side. We watched the sunset from there and shared this unforgettable experience with only one other person when we visited Santorini at the beginning of May. I’m still in awe of this breathtaking moment! Watching the sunset in Oia definitely is a must-do and a beautiful memory that I will never forget!

You may also enjoy reading: 2-Day Syros Itinerary & Travel Guide

Day 3: Santorini Island Road Trip

Visit Pyrgos

The third day of our Santorini itinerary starts with visiting Pyrgos, a picturesque village nestled in the hills of Santorini and known for its white-washed buildings, narrow streets, and impressive Venetian Castle. Compared to the popular villages of Oia, Imerovigli, and Fira, the lovely village of Pyrgos is way more peaceful. So you can explore the charming alleys in a more relaxed way. Take your time to wander the narrow streets of the village, admire the traditional Cycladic architecture, and browse the quaint boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries.

One of the best things to do in Pyrgos is to climb to the top of the hill to explore the ruins of the Venetian Castle, where you can marvel at the panoramic views of the deep-blue Aegean Sea and the neighboring towns. Next to the castle, you can also find many beautiful churches in Pyrgos. I really loved visiting this cute and authentic village. I highly recommend including it in your Santorini itinerary no matter how many days you spend in Santorini.

Enjoy the View from Profiti Ilia Monastery

The next stop is the Profiti Ilia Monastery, which is located just a few kilometers from Pyrgos. Situated on the island’s highest peak, the monastery offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the island and the Aegean Sea. It’s the best viewpoint to admire Santorini and all of its natural beauty. The monastery itself is a beautiful example of traditional Cycladic architecture and is free to visit.

Lunch at Perissa Black Sand Beach

From the monastery, make your way to Perissa Black Sand Beach. A visit to Santorini isn’t complete without visiting one of the island’s black sand beaches. Perissa Beach (Paralia Perissa) is one of the most popular beaches in Santorini. With its unique black sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The beach is lined with traditional restaurants, stylish beach bars, and cute cafes, offering a variety of Greek food and refreshing drinks. We only stopped here for lunch, but if you have more time, you can spend a relaxed day at this beach or one of Santorini’s other beautiful beaches like Kamari Beach (where you can also find an open air cinema).

Archaeological Site of Akrotiri

The Archaeological Site of Akrotiri is a fascinating prehistoric settlement. This ancient site was once a prosperous Bronze Age city that was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in the 16^th century BC, which led to its preservation under layers of ash. Therefore, Akrotiri is also referred to as the “Greek Pompeii”. You can explore the well-preserved ruins of houses, streets, squares, and public buildings, and see beautiful frescoes, pottery, and other artifacts that provide a glimpse into the lives of the city’s inhabitants before the eruption. The ticket price is 12€ per person.

Visit Red Beach

After visiting the Archaeological Site of Akrotiri, head to Red Beach. Red Beach is one of the most unique beaches in Santorini and known for its stunning red cliffs and crystal-clear waters. The red color of the cliffs is due to the presence of volcanic minerals. I really loved the contrast between the impressive red cliffs and the electric blue water. Take some time to admire the breathtaking views before driving to the next spot.

Watch the Sunset at the Akrotiri Lighthouse

Akrotiri Lighthouse, located on the southernmost point of Santorini, is an iconic symbol of the island’s rugged beauty and rich history. Originally built in 1892, the lighthouse played a crucial role in guiding ships through the treacherous waters surrounding Santorini. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction, offering stunning panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding cliffs. The nearby cliffside offers a perfect vantage point for watching the sunset over the sea.

If you arrive too early at the lighthouse to watch the sunset, you can decide whether you want to wait here or drive back to Imerovigli to watch the sunset there.

You might like to read these articles too: 3 Days in Tinos, Greece & 4 Days in Naxos, Greece

Day 4: Unforgettable Experiences in Santorini

Explore the villages of Emporio and Megalochori

Start your fourth day in Santorini by visiting the villages of Emporio and Megalochori. These villages are true hidden gems and must-visit places for anyone who wants to experience the authentic beauty and culture of Santorini and get a glimpse of the old, traditional way of life on the island. If you love to explore unique places off the beaten path, you don’t want to miss these places! So, make sure to include them in your Santorini travel itinerary.

The ancient village of Emporio is a maze of narrow streets and white-washed buildings that will transport you back in time to the days of old Greece when pirates used to attack Santorini. One of the best things to do in Emporio is to explore the Kasteli, a medieval castle located on a hilltop in the heart of the village, which dates back to the 15th century and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. As you wander through this charming village, you’ll also come across quaint chapels and cozy cafes where you can relax and soak up the local culture. Another must-see attraction above the village is the traditional windmills, which have been restored to their former glory and are now used as vacation homes. I absolutely loved exploring Emporio and experiencing a different side of Santorini.

After visiting Emporio, head to the village of Megalochori. This traditional settlement is known for its unique architecture and charming ambiance, and another must-visit place for anyone looking to experience the authentic, less touristy side of Santorini. Take a leisurely stroll through the winding alleys and cobbled streets to admire the white-washed old houses, lovely churches, and traditional taverns, where you can taste local wines and try out traditional Santorini dishes. Top sights in Megalochori include the village’s iconic bell tower and the traditional underground caves.

Enjoy a Wine Tasting for Lunch

After exploring Megalochori and Emprio, it’s time for another unforgettable experience. When spending 4 days in Santorini, doing a wine tour including a wine tasting is a must! We actually visited two wineries: Santo Wines and Venetsanos Winery. In both wineries, you can enjoy stunning views of the Aegean Sea when having a wine tasting on the outside terrace.

It was such an incredible experience to sample Santorini’s famous wines while admiring the breathtaking views from the top of the cliffs. When we visited Santorini in the beginning of May, we could just drop by without having a reservation, but if you visit Santorini during high season, you definitely need to book a table in advance to avoid disappointment. Alternatively, you can book one of these top-rated guided wine tours including pick-up:

• Half-Day Tour of 3 Wineries with Tasting
• Guided Wine Tasting Tour
• Sunset Wine Tour

Sunset Cruise in Oia

Santorini is famous for its magnificent sunsets and its hypnotizing blue waters. So, it’s no wonder why one of the most amazing things you can do in Santorini is to embark on a sunset cruise. Doing a sunset catamaran cruise was hands down my favorite experience during our time in Santorini. We did this All-inclusive Luxury Small Group Catamaran Cruise, which I can highly recommend.

During the cruise, we sailed along the coastline and stopped at different spots such as Red Beach, White Beach, and the volcano islands of Nea Kameni and Palia Kameni, where you can swim in the world-famous volcanic hot springs. While on the cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the caldera in all of its beauty and see the island’s distinctive architecture from a different perspective.

The end and the highlight of the cruise is watching the sunset in Oia from the sea. It was such a dream to see the sun disappearing into the Aegean Sea while anchoring in the shimmering waters under the iconic pastel-colored buildings of Oia. This moment truly left me in awe. It was the perfect way to end our unforgettable Santorini vacation.

Although it’s not cheap to do a sunset cruise in Santorini, I cannot recommend enough to do one because it’s a once in a lifetime experience. In case the cruise we did is fully booked, here are some alternative options:

• Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Greek Meal & Open Bar (small group)
• Premium Catamaran Cruise with BBQ & Drinks (budget option)
• Private Catamaran Sunset Cruise All-inclusive (private)

I hope you liked this 4-day Santorini itinerary and that it will be helpful if you plan a trip to Santorini. We truly had an unforgettable time in Santorini and can’t wait to go back one day.

Tip: We combined our trip to Santorini with visiting the nearby island of Paros for 4 days. From Athinios Port in Santorini we took a ferry to Parikia, Paros (around 1 hour 45 minutes). Check out my Paros Travel Guide for more information on the beautiful island of Paros.

Santorini FAQ

Is Santorini worth visiting?

Absolutely yes! A trip to Santorini should be on everyone’s bucket list. Even though it’s a touristy place, there’s so much to do and see, from picturesque villages, impressive natural wonders, and beautiful beaches to authentic culture, delicious traditional food, unique experiences, and hidden gems.

Is a day trip to Santorini enough?

In my opinion, spending one day in Santorini isn’t enough to experience everything that the island has to offer, but it’s enough to get a small taste of the island’s highlights.

Is 4 days in Santorini enough?

For us, spending 4 days in Santorini was the perfect trip length. It’s enough time to visit all the main attractions of Santorini, do some tours of the island, and even discover the hidden gems.

Is 5 days in Santorini too much?

No, you can easily spend 5 or more days in Santorini without getting bored. Having more time on the island gives you the opportunity to visit Santorini in a more relaxed way. Plus, you could also include a full day at the beach.

How many days to spend in Santorini?

This totally depends on your personal preferences, like how much you want to see and what you want to do. You can do Santorini in 2, 3, 4 or 5 days or even spend a full week on the island.

Is Santorini expensive?

Yes, Santorini is probably one of the most expensive islands in Greece. Especially prices for accommodation, restaurants, and transportation are higher.

Is it possible to do Santorini on a budget?

This might be surprising to some of you, but yes, you can also visit Santorini on a budget if you plan ahead and book your accommodation well in advance. Stay in Fira or one of the small villages in the heart of the island, dine away from the popular tourist spots, visit Santorini during off-season or shoulder season, and use public transport or walk – this way, it is possible to do Santorini on a budget.

Is there Uber in Santorini?

When we visited Santorini, Uber wasn’t available, but as these things can change very quickly, you should always check again before you visit. As mentioned before, you can just use standard taxis or private drivers if you don’t want to rent a car.

Looking for more Greece travel guides and travel tips? Check out the articles below!

• Complete Cyclades Island Hopping Itinerary
• Paros Travel Guide – 4 Days in Paros
• Mykonos in 3 Days: Complete Itinerary & Travel Guide
• Naxos in 4 Days: Itinerary & Best Things to Do
• Ios in 3 Days: Complete Itinerary & Travel Guide
• Athens in 2 Days for First-Time Visitors
• Tinos in 3 Days: Travel Guide & Best Things to Do
• Syros in 2 Days for First-Time Visitors
• Best Photo Spots in Mykonos
• Myconian Avaton Mykonos Hotel Review

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