Planning a visit to the island of Santorini? You’re in for a treat!
The island of Santorini is a paradise of whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, volcanic beaches, and endless sunsets over the Aegean Sea, and this guide will help you make the most of your two days in Santorini.
Read on to learn what to pack for Santorini, where to stay in Santorini, where to eat in Santorini, and more, and to get our 2-day itinerary, which is filled with some of the best things to do and see in Santorini.
*P.S. this post contains some affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission when you make a purchase.
Intro to the Island of Santorini
The island of Santorini was created through a series of volcanic eruptions, the most significant being the Minoan eruption around 1600 BCE, which was one of the largest volcanic eruptions in recorded history.
The eruption was so powerful that it caused much of the central part of the island to collapse into the sea, creating the island’s iconic caldera and giving Santorini its unique crescent shape.
Located on Santorini, the ancient city of Akrotiri was buried in volcanic ash and is one of the best-preserved archaeological sites from the advanced Minoan civilization.
Given that the Minoan civilization disappeared after the eruption, some historians and archaeologists have linked the island of Santorini to the lost city of Atlantis—how interesting!
Santorini Travel Tips
Here are some useful tips for your visit to the island of Santorini, including how to get from Crete to Santorini, what to pack for your trip, the language, currency, and weather on Santorini, and where to stay.
How to Get to Santorini
There are several ferry companies that run between Crete and Santorini, Greece. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours for high-speed ferries and 3 to 4 hours for standard ferries.
After our two days on Crete, Greece, we took an early morning, high-speed Seajets ferry from Heraklion to Santorini. Heraklion Port is Crete’s most well-connected port, and all ferries to Santorini dock at Athinios Port, Santorini’s main port.
Prices vary by season, ticket class, ferry time, and booking time and are generally more expensive for high-speed ferries (but worth it in our opinion!). Including booking fees, we paid around €95 per person for a one-way ticket from Heraklion to Santorini.
A Broad Recommendation: Book your tickets in advance, check the luggage policy, and download the Ferryhopper app, especially if you’re visiting during the summer. Even if you purchase tickets in advance, you’ll still want to arrive at the port at least an hour early to ensure you can board and stow your luggage. You’ll also want to pre-arrange transportation for your arrival, as Athinios Port can get very busy. Our Airbnb host coordinated this for us, and we paid the driver in cash.
Language in Santorini
The primary language spoken on the island of Santorini is Greek. However, English is also widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas.
Currency in Santorini
The Euro (€) is the official currency used on the island of Santorini. Credit cards are accepted in most places, and ATMs are widely available, but it’s helpful to carry cash for small purchases, tips, etc.
A Broad Recommendation: If you plan on renting a car, be sure to check if the rental company is cash-only to ensure that you have enough cash to cover the cost if required.
Island of Santorini Weather
The island of Santorini has a typical Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The best time to visit Santorini is late April to early June or September to October, when the weather is warm and the island is less crowded. We visited in September, and it was wonderful!
Spring (March – May) in Santorini is mild, with temperatures ranging from around 55°F in March to 68°F in May. This time of year is great for hiking and sightseeing with fewer crowds.
Summer (June – August) in Santorini is hot, dry, and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 77° to 86°F during the day and around 72°F at night. This time of year is great for visiting Santorini’s beaches, swimming, and enjoying Santorini’s lively atmosphere. However, Santorini is busy and can get very windy during the summer months.
Fall (September – November) in Santorini is warm, with temperatures around 75°F in September and closer to around 61°F in November. Since the sea is still warm from the summer months, fall is still a great time to enjoy Santorini’s beaches and to sightsee with fewer crowds. Though, rainfall typically increases in November.
Winter (December – February) can be rainy and windy, with cooler temperatures ranging from 50° to 59°F. Many tourist attractions close for the winter, but visitors can still explore the island’s archaeological sites and experience a more local, relaxed side of Santorini.
Santorini Packing List
The most important thing to remember for your visit to Santorini (and Greece in general) is your passport! Consider making a photocopy of your passport, bank/debit and credit cards, and any insurance cards in case they get lost.
It’s also a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases and tipping. We usually bring around €200 per person for our summer European vacations, and you can always get more out from an ATM while there.
Be sure to pack your typical toiletries, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and tissues (which are handy in the event that public restrooms run out of toilet paper). Also, remember to pack any medications you take regularly, feminine products, and other medications, like those for sinus congestion, cough, upset stomach, etc.
Since Santorini is known for its beaches, you’ll want to bring a couple bathing suits, cover-ups, flip flops, a beach hat, sunglasses, a beach bag, a waterproof cell phone case, and a small bookbag or dry bag for excursions. You’ll also want to bring your favorite summer dresses, rompers, shorts, etc.
A Broad Recommendation: If you plan to do a catamaran cruise, be sure to pack a black bathing suit. Sulfur in the water in some areas could stain lighter colored bathing suits.
In summary, here’s our suggested packing list for a visit to the island of Santorini:
- Passport & a photocopy
- Euros (you can get these from your bank prior to the trip or at a local ATM)
- Debit card & credit card(s)
- All-in-one International Power Adapter
- First aid kit, medicine & feminine products
- A cross-body purse, secure, RFID blocking wallet, or my favorite travel fanny pack
- Bathing suits & cover-ups
- Lightweight, breathable dresses/summer clothes, like this flowy, blue skirt that matches Santorini’s beautiful backdrop
- Light scarf to cover up inside any churches
- Light jacket or linen shirt for cooler evenings (though we didn’t end up needing one during our visit)
- Comfortable walking shoes, like these Women’s Weekend Vessis
- Sandals like these NAOT Footwear Sabrina Women’s Sandals or Women’s Chantik sandals
- Beach hat & sunglasses
- Beach bag or waterproof bag
- Waterproof phone case
- Sunscreen
- Other toiletries, tissues, hand sanitizer, etc.
- Selfie stick/tripod
- Camera/GoPro
- Portable charger & cords
Note that we usually travel with reusable water bottles, but it’s not safe to drink the tap water in Santorini. Our Airbnb host graciously provided us with some water bottles to start our visit, and you can buy bottled water across the island of Santorini too.
Where to Stay in Santorini
We stayed in an adorable cave house in Megalochori, Greece and felt that this location was perfect for getting away from the hustle and bustle of Santorini but also central enough to get around the island.
Nestled into the rugged cliffs of Santorini, with whitewashed walls made from volcanic rock, Anedosa Cave House is perfect for families or a group of five friends like us!
The house has three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a nice sitting area, and a large private outdoor space, and is just steps away from several local restaurants, a public parking lot, and a bus stop (you’ll need a car or to Uber or take the bus around the island of Santorini, but nothing is too far away).
The host was responsive before and during our visit, coordinated our transfers from Athinios Ferry Port and to Santorini Airport, provided local recommendations, allowed us to check-in early, and more. We loved our stay here and all agreed that we would love to stay at the Andeosa Cave House again some day!
Other areas to stay on the island of Santorini include Oia, which is known for its iconic sunsets, luxury and boutique hotels, and incredible caldera views; Fira, the island’s capital, which offers lots of dining and shopping options and more budget-friendly accommodations; and Perissa Beach, which has a more laid-back, beach vibe with some budget-friendly options and upscale beachfront resorts.
Island of Santorini Map
Santorini’s main villages and attractions, like Oia and Fira, are concentrated along the caldera’s edge. Other key spots include Santorini’s Red Beach, White Beach, Kamari Beach, and Perissa Beach.
And of course, it’s always good to know where to find Santorini Airport and Santorini’s main port, Athinios Port, both of which connect Santorini to the other Greek islands and mainland Greece.
2-Day Santorini Itinerary
A visit to the island of Santorini promises a journey through postcard-worthy towns with breathtaking caldera views, unique volcanic beaches, and unforgettable sunsets! We tried to see and do as much as possible during our two days in Santorini. Here’s the 2-day itinerary we followed during our time in Santorini, including the day we arrived.
Day 1: Oia & Perissa Beach
Afternoon in Oia
After dropping off our luggage at our Airbnb, we spent our first afternoon on Santorini in Oia, one of the island’s most famous villages.
Located on the northwestern tip of the island, Oia is the iconic village with whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches that most people think of when they hear the name Santorini.
This picture-perfect village is renowned for its gorgeous sunsets, but during the day, it also offers lots of shopping, cafes with cliffside views, castle ruins, and scenic walks along the caldera.
A Broad Recommendation: Some of the best spots to watch a sunset in Oia include Oia Castle, the iconic blue-domed churches, or from the private terraces of one of Oia’s restaurants, bars, or hotels.
During our visit, we strolled through the narrow, cobblestone streets of Oia, stopping at local boutiques and art galleries along the way. We also ate lunch at Blue Domes Restaurant Oia, which has yummy Mediterranean dishes and stunning views of the caldera.
If you have more time in Oia, you may want to check out the Maritime Museum of Oia, explore the Oia Castle ruins, visit the Atlantis Bookstore, take a Santorini wine tour, or do an Oia photo shoot.
Evening at Perissa Beach
Situated on the southeastern coast of the island of Santorini, Perissa Beach is a volcanic, black sand beach with crystal-clear waters and a relaxed vibe. And, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring in Oia!
Perissa Beach is an ideal spot for swimming, scuba diving, and snorkeling but also offers other fun water activities like jet skiing, paddleboarding, and windsurfing. In the evenings, Perissa Beach turns into a lively scene with beach bars and restaurants hosting parties, live music, and other events.
We only had a few hours in Perissa Beach, so we took some photos on the beach and enjoyed a lovely, family-style dinner at Fratzeskos Fish Tavern. This laid-back restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and awesome waterfront location, and everything we tried was delicious!
If you have more time on Perissa Beach, you can relax on the beach, hike or drive to Ancient Thera, an archaeological site on Mesa Vouno mountain, or spend a day at the Santorini Water Park.
Day 2: Fira & Megalochori
Morning in Fira
The next morning, we made our way to Fira, Santorini’s bustling capital and the cultural and commercial hub of the island. Known for its Cycladic architecture and stunning caldera views, a visit to Fira is one of the top things to do in Santorini.
Fira is brimming with shops, boutiques, bars, and restaurants, as well as whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and narrow cobblestone streets, making this village a favorite for shoppers, foodies, and photographers alike.
We spent the morning walking around Fira, taking in the gorgeous caldera and sea views, and popping into shops, much like we did the day before in Oia.
If you have more time, you can check out the Archaeological Museum of Thera, Museum of Prehistoric Thera, or Megaro Gyzi Museum, take a cable car ride to the Old Port, or hike down the famous Skaros Rock trail.
Afternoon Catamaran Cruise
After a morning of exploring in Fira, we made our way back to our Airbnb to get ready for our afternoon catamaran cruise.
A catamaran cruise is a unique and memorable way to experience the island of Santorini from the water. Sailing around the caldera gives you a glimpse of the island’s incredible cliffs, volcanic formations, and other nearby islands up close.
We chose the Half-Day Exclusive Catamaran Cruise in Santorini with Meal and Open Bar and had an amazing time. In fact, we all agree that this is one of the best things to do in Santorini!
We were picked up from our Airbnb around 2:00 pm, and the staff was exceptional from the minute we hopped on the shuttle. The cruise itself included unlimited beer, wine, waters, and soft drinks, as well as a delicious dinner prepared on board.
Along the way, we stopped at a couple spots to swim, including at some hot springs that didn’t feel very hot—LOL!—and were able to watch a beautiful sunset over the water.
If you have the time, a sunset catamaran cruise should absolutely be on your 2-day Santorini itinerary!
Evening in Megalochori
Though we had dinner on our catamaran cruise, we were still hungry for some late-night snacks. Our host recommended Raki Restaurant Santorini, so we decided to check it out. Known for its traditional Greek dishes and cozy atmosphere, Raki Restaurant Santorini is a cute spot with yummy dishes and the perfect place to end your day.
A Broad Recommendation: If you have more time, you might be interested in taking one of Raki’s cooking lessons, where you’ll have the chance to create delicious, local dishes under the training of the restaurant’s experienced chefs.
Other Things to Do in Santorini
Here are some other great things to do in Santorini if you have more than two days here:
- Known as the “Greek Pompeii” or the “Pompeii of the Aegean,” Akrotiri is an ancient Minoan city preserved in volcanic ash from an eruption around 1600 BCE.
- The island of Santorini is known for its striking volcanic beaches, and Red Beach in particular is famous for its red volcanic sand and striking red cliffs.
- Kamari Beach is a popular black sand beach with lots of restaurants, bars, and water sports, making it the perfect spot for a beach day.
- Santorini’s volcanic soil creates ideal conditions for grape-growing, and the island is known for its unique wines, particularly Assyrtiko. A wine tour is a great way to learn about Santorini’s winemaking traditions and sample some local wines, all while enjoying some gorgeous views of the island.
- The scenic 6.2-mile hike from Fira to Oia follows the caldera and offers some of the island’s best views, particularly at sunset.
- Known as the “Balcony to the Aegean,” Imerovigli is a quieter, more romantic village with spectacular views of the caldera.
- Pyrgos is a traditional village with narrow, winding paths, charming houses, and the historic Kasteli (castle) remains.
- Located on Mesa Vouno mountain, Ancient Thera is an ancient city with ruins from the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods.
- Located in Fira, the Museum of Prehistoric Thera showcases artifacts from the ancient city of Akrotiri and other archaeological sites on the island.
Island of Santorini FAQ
Have more questions about your visit to the island of Santorini? Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about Santorini.
When is the best time to visit the island of Santorini?
The best time to visit the island of Santorini is from late April to October, especially if you want to enjoy Santorini’s beaches and outdoor activities. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, so be sure to avoid those if you don’t like crowds!
How many days do I need on the island of Santorini?
Two to four days on the island of Santorini is ideal. We only had two days here and would’ve liked to have another day or two to explore more of the island, but we had plans to visit Athens and to fly back to Nice, France, so we couldn’t stay longer this time.
Two days in Santorini gives you enough time to see some of the island’s highlights, while four days lets you explore Santorini at a more relaxed pace.
Do I need a car to get around the island of Santorini?
We didn’t rent a car in Santorini and were able to frequently and reliably get Ubers. Since we really liked our first Uber driver, we asked if we could contact him directly for future rides, and he agreed. So, you may want to do the same if one of your Uber drivers is especially great too.
We also coordinated port pick-up and airport drop-off through our Airbnb host and paid the driver in cash (so be sure to have some on hand if you do this too).
Other options include renting a car or ATV, especially if you’re looking for more flexibility or to visit places outside of this itinerary. You could also try to navigate the bus system, which covers most large villages and popular destinations, but we heard that it’s unreliable at times.
How do I get from the island of Santorini to Athens?
Flying is the quickest and most convenient way to travel from Santorini to Athens. The flight takes about 45 to 50 minutes.
There are also several ferry companies that operate between Santorini and Athens, like Blue Star Ferries, Seajets, and Golden Star Ferries. The journey takes around 4.5 to 6 hours.
Since we’d already taken the ferry from Crete to Santorini, we opted for a Ryanair flight this time, and paid around $65 per person.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it! We had the best time during our two days on the island of Santorini and would love to go back and see more some day. How will you spend your time on the island of Santorini?
XOXO Sara at Travel A-Broads