Santorini is one of the most famous and popular islands you'll find on a Greek vacation, especially with honeymooners looking for a romantic escape. The island is renowned for its unique crescent shape, formed 3500 years ago after a volcanic eruption. The beauty of Santorini is unparalleled – sheer cliffs dotted with gorgeous villas, surrounded by the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. As a busy island (especially between June and August when most Europeans are vacationing), it can be overwhelming to decide what to see and do. Here are our insider tips for how to spend three wonderful days on a Greece vacation. Pre-booking is recommended!
Day 1. Watch the Sunset on the Water
A must-do on every Santorini itinerary is to watch the sunset. A unique way to enjoy this is aboard a small ship cruise. Here you can swim off the boat in the warm Mediterranean and enjoy a crisp white wine or cold Mythos along with a locally prepared seafood dinner, while kicking back as the sky changes colour. Most itineraries include an option to swim in the hot springs and time to walk on the volcanic crater.
Day 2. Hike Oia to Fira
There is a scenic 10km /6.2m hike between the two main towns in Santorini: Fira and Oia. Leaving from Fira, you walk along a path of varying terrain and views, passing scenic villas and dramatic cliffs. This is a moderately challenging walk, which takes between two and four hours depending on your stops and pace, but the views are worth it. We recommend avoiding doing this hike in the heat of the day (mid-afternoon), bringing lots of water, and wearing sturdy walking shoes. Once you enter Oia, treat yourself to a cold drink. You can also head down to Ammoudi Bay for a swim by the ocean. There’s also some great seaside Tavernas here.
Day 3. Explore the Interior: Beach & Vineyard Hop
Did you know Santorini has over a dozen vineyards? The volcanic soil and dry climate of Santorini gives the local wine a unique taste, plus this island has a long history of wine-making, dating back to ancient times. Most wineries in Santorini are found in the central and southern part of the island, so if staying in the popular towns of Oia or Fira, on your Greece vacation, it’s best to rent a vehicle (a car or ATV) and explore the vineyards on your own. You could easily include a stop at Kamari Beach which has a unique black-sand beach, a relaxed vibe, and an assortment of cafes and restaurants. Another great way to enjoy the vineyards is by joining Goway’s morning or afternoon excursion, where you have the opportunity to visits three traditional wineries, meet the producers, and sample a number of different wines.
Growing up in a family travel business, Bronwyn has been travelling from a very young age. Her favourite experience was 3 months spent backpacking through India and Southeast Asia. She counts many countries among her ‘favourites,’ but is especially fond of Australia for its lifestyle, Cambodia for its culture and resilience, and Japan for its contrasts. She holds the proud distinction of being Goway’s only former Bollywood star – having once starred in a Coke commercial in Mumbai.
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