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How To Spend a Weekend In Santorini

Are you on your way to spend a weekend in a volcanic and lovely island of Santorini? If you are, then look no further! Here you will find some of the best places to visit and activities to take on during your visit. While squeezing everything into a weekend might not be possible, you can always select the choices that attract you the most. Let’s begin!

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Visit Lovely Beaches of Santorini

Probably quite an obvious, we are on a beautiful island surrounded by the sea after all. Santorini hosts plenty of beaches with a great variety that will surprise anyone. Let’s take a look at the 5 best beaches you can visit in Santorini!

Definitely one of the most beautiful and unique beaches in Santorini! A bit steep and not that easy to reach, it presents a little challenge, but it still pretty crowded during high season and for a good reason.

It’s crystal clear waters are perfect for snorkeling while red volcanic pebbles and cliffs will compose an amazing scenery and unique environment for you.

Vlychada Beach

This time your surroundings will be presented in a beautiful color white. Vlychada Beach or White Beach is a tranquil and peaceful beach without loud bars or water sports rumbling the waters.

Head to this beach for another unique beach experience in Santorini!

Perissa Beach

More colors? Yes, of course! Perrisa Beach is a part of a long and charming black colored beach together with Perivolos Beach and is one of the busiest on the island.

A complete opposite to our previous beach, here you will find everything from water sport activities, live DJ’s and more!

Kamari Beach

Kamari beach is another beach made of black lava pebbles and is located close to the airport and a lovely town of Kamari.

Easily accessible, well organized with good atmosphere and marvelous views. What else could you ask for?

Columbos Beach

Looking for something more quiet and isolated? Then hit a jackpot with a secret Columbos Beach.

Its the only beach on the island that is nudist friendly and you will probably not meet many people here. Columbos Beach is a perfect getaway for those who prefer hidden and tranquility filled places!

Sail With The Sunset Cruise

You never know, but this just might be one of the best moments from your trip to Santorini!

Experience the Aegean Sea and the island from a different perspective and witness an unforgettable sunset, can it get any better? While there are plenty to choose from, here are some of the best cruises and tours for sunsets.

• Volcanic Islands Cruise
• Catamaran Cruise with meals and drinks
• Catamaran Small Group Cruise

Hike The Trails of Santorini

Is your inner Indiana Jones waking up? Or maybe you’re not planning to lay on the beach all day and looking for something adventurous and more exciting? No worries here, as Santorini presents few options of its own – some of the best in Greece !

• Skaros Rock – Hike 300 steps and get that heartbeat up, to witness stunning views and visit the ruins of the medieval fortress
• FIRA to OIA Trail – One of the most popular trails on the island. Starting in the beautiful port of Fira it will unveil historic sights and mesmerizing views with the amazing finish at the picturesque town of Oia which is overlooking the deep blue sea.
• Nea Kameni Volcano – Another hike starting in Fira that will take you up the mountain. Explore the edges of the active volcano, feel the heat and embrace the views and swim in the hot springs!

Go for Wine Tasting

Wine lover or not, wine tasting can be another unique experience on your lovely weekend in Santorini.

Wine is one of the most important products of Santorini. By visiting a winery and taking a tour you will have a chance to walk around charming vineyards and learn the history of vine production. And taste it, of course!

Experience The Pulsing Nightlife

Santorini is lovely and picturesque at day, but completely different vibes will take place when the sun sets!

Santorini is a perfect island for those who love to go out and have fun with Fira being one of the best places for a night out.

From famous DJ’s guest appearances, pubs and beach clubs to fancy lounges and dance floors. Take on the Santorini’s wild nightlife the way you prefer. The stage is yours in one of the greatest places in the world to visit !

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I visited Santorini more than 10 years ago, and only for a day. I really hope to be able to revisit some day soon. That one brief day was absolutely magical.

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The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in Santorini Itinerary

Last Updated on March 7, 2024

by Audrey Webster

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Known for its iconic white-washed buildings, blue dome roofs, gorgeous coastline and charming villages along the caldera, planning a 2, 3 or 4 days in Santorini itinerary can be somewhat overwhelming.

Many people flock to the island for its delicious food, surprisingly diverse landscape, and world-class sunsets. But Santorini has a lot more to offer than that.

This Cycladic island is popular for a reason, with so much to offer visitors. If you’re dreaming of a Santorini getaway, then this guide encompasses all the must-see parts of the island as well as some that are a little more off the beaten path.

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How Many Days in Santorini?

Though it is such a popular place attracting countless visitors per year, it can be tough to figure out just how many days to spend in Santorini in order to really do the island justice.

There really isn’t a bad amount of time to spend here, but plan to spend at least 2 days in Santorini if you want to focus one day on exploring one of the larger towns and the second day on seeing other parts of the island. 

With 3 days in Santorini, you can take the time to dig a bit deeper on the island and see some beautiful places that are a bit off the beaten tourist trail. And if you have 4 days, this gives you time to go wine tasting and really just kick back and enjoy all this incredible island really has to offer.

Getting To & Around Santorini

You have two options to get to Santorini. The first, and probably most convenient, is flying. There is a small airport located in the centre of the island near Fira.

You can easily hop on a regional flight from Athens to Santorini for an affordable price. The flight takes 45 minutes to one hour and there are several options every day. From the airport, you can organise a transfer here .

The second arrival option is by ferry. There are a handful of ferry companies that operate between the Greek islands . The islands are divided into groups based on location. The ferry that goes to Santorini also stops at Paros and Naxos . There is also a ferry that goes to Milos , to Mykonos and from Crete if you’re staying in Chania or Heraklion.

A high-speed ferry takes 4 to 5 hours to reach Santorini from Athens. The ferry that stops at the other two islands first will take closer to 7 hours. Keep in mind, that ferries are less frequent if you’re coming to Santorini from Athens in winter. You can check ferry schedules here .

This is a good option if you are planning to also visit Naxos or Paros during your visit. If you get seasick easily, the ferry might not be the best option. From the ferry terminal, you can organise a transfer here or take a taxi if you don’t have your own transport.

Now, once on the island, you need a convenient way to get around Santorini. There is a local bus, but it hardly makes stops.

Your best option is to rent a car. It’s also very common to see ATVs on the main roads of Santorini as a mode of getting around the island – just keep in mind that this may not always be the safest option.!

If you want to rent a car while in Santorini, then consider browsing Rentalcars.com in order to find deals across a number of different rental car companies.

There are several tour companies that also operate across the island. This is another option for seeing parts of Santorini if you don’t want to rent a car or ATV and aren’t concerned about your overall Santorini trip cost . Some popular tours include this catamaran cruise , this highlights tour and this wine tour .

2, 3 or 4-Day Santorini Itinerary

With 2, 3 or 4 days to spend in Santorini, you’ll have plenty of time to eat delicious Mediterranean cuisine, catch a once-in-a-lifetime sunset, and explore this famous Greek island.

Day 1 – Pyrgos, Kamari Beach, Akrotiri & Emporio

Visit pyrgos, the highest point in santorini.

Spend your first day in Santorini adjusting to your new surroundings. Have an easy morning then set out to explore parts of the island.

The Pyrgos village is the former capital of Santorini and is around 7 kilometers south of Fira. It’s one of the most picturesque Greek villages. It’s usually not on the radar of most visitors.

It boasts a quiet, subtle charm that captures the attention of those who choose to visit. This less-trafficked village is a perfect stop for a late-morning stroll and lunch away from the crowds that flock to more popular towns for tourists like Oia and Fira.

Pyrgos is located at the top of a hill, the highest point in Santorini, so you’ll catch amazing views. While you’re there, make sure to visit the Pyrgos Kasteli, a well-preserved Venetian castle, as well as several local boutiques and cafes. 

Walk along Kamari, the black sand beach

Santorini is famous for having uniquely-colored beaches, so it should come as no surprise that the island’s black sand beach is on an itinerary.

The island of Santorini was created when a volcano erupted in 1600 BC. The explosion also created the island’s black sand beaches, the only of its kind found in the entire Aegean.

The most popular black sand beaches, including Kamari, are located along the southeast coast, about a twenty-minute drive from Fira and visiting is one of the best things to do in Santorini.

Along the beach, you’ll find umbrellas and chairs, bars, and restaurants. Perissa and Perivolos are two known for their DJs and nightlife. There is also an assortment of water sports available for visitors. 

Explore Visit Akrotiri for Minoan ruins

This prehistoric settlement is a step back in time. Built in the Bronze Age, Akrotiri is among the most important Minoan settlements and ports in the Aegean Sea. It was covered in volcanic ash in the 17th century BC, thus lending to its expert preservation today.

Akrotiri is often referred to as the “Greek Pompeii” because it was preserved by volcanic ash. The settlement has sophisticated buildings and an elaborate drainage system unique for its time.

Visitors to the site will walk under a bioclimatic roof, built to help preserve the ruins, and across walkways suspended over the remains. You can also see the famous Red Beach nearby though it can get very crowded.

This allows guests to walk among the impressive two and three-storey buildings. Akrotiri is a short drive from Fira and there are several tours available from Fira as well.

Stop at Emporio

A quick stop at Emporio will be well worth your time to close out day one of exploring Santorini’s history. This is another village that is less trafficked by tourists compared to other areas.

Located at the foot of Santorini’s Mt. Porphitis Elias, Emporio captures some of the most interesting architecture you’ll find while exploring the island. It’s in the southern part of Santorini, about ten kilometers from Fira and near the black beaches.

It’s the largest of the villages in Santorini and an enticing walk through history. Make sure to visit the two historic churches and the castle complex, leftover from when Emporio was a major trading hub.

If you don’t have your own transport, you can see a number of these day 1 sites on this full-day tour .

Day 2 – Fira to Oia Hike

Hike fira to oia.

Exploring by foot is often one of the best ways to see a new place. The hike from Fira to Oia is just over 6 miles and takes hikers along a trail with some of the island’s most spectacular views of villages and of

It’s a great way to start out your second day. You’ll hike along concrete, cobblestone, and dirt paths with the total hike time coming to somewhere between 2 and 5 hours. Try to get an early start if possible so you can stop at villages along the way such as the iconic Imerovigli.

The trail is entirely exposed and it tends to get hot the later you go in the day. Make sure you bring a sturdy pair of hiking shoes and a water bottle.

There are three different sections of elevation gain, but nothing more strenuous than a moderate-difficulty hike. After your hike, reward yourself with a tasty lunch in Oia.

Explore Oia (iconic views, Atlantis Books, Ammoudi Bay)

Oia is perhaps one of the most famous spots on the island. For this reason, you can expect it to always be relatively busy. The iconic sunset photos you’ve most likely seen online are taken from viewpoints in Oia.

There are several outdoor restaurants where you can relax on the patio for a delicious meal and drink. Walk the winding streets to explore the local cafes and boutiques. Capture famous photos of the blue-domed buildings and visit the Castle of Oia.

You can admire the glistening blue waters of Ammoudi Bay and close out the day by watching the Oia sunset from a restaurant while enjoying a glass of local wine.

Day 3  – Nea Kameni, Hot Springs & Thirassia Island

Visit nea kameni caldera .

Day three takes you off the island. A boat ride from Santorini to explore the nearby Nea Kameni caldera is a trip well worth your time.

There are daily cruises that take visitors to the caldera. Here, you can hop from the boat and take a hike on solidified lava to reach the main crater that still pours out sulphur steam.

Reaching the caldera is about a 20-minute walk from the boat dock. From Nea Kameni, you’ll get excellent views of Fira and Oia. Make sure you bring plenty of water with you and maybe lunch.

You can enjoy your meal while taking in the views from this volcanic island. 

Swim in hot springs

Nea Kameni is a popular attraction for those visiting Santorini. One of the most famous sites is the hot springs. The last time this volcano erupted was in the 1950s. It’s been dormant since but is still considered active.

The volcanic activity in the area has created hot springs that maintain a comfortable temperature that is safe for visitors to swim in. Many boat tours to the island stop in at the hot springs to allow visitors to enjoy the warm waters.

The hot springs here are famous for their healing properties, so make sure to bask in these enjoyable waters during your visit.

Boat ride to Thirassia Island

Thirassia is a quiet village on an island one mile off the coast of Oia. It used to be connected to Santorini, but the 1600 BCE volcanic eruption severed the connection between the two islands.

Many tourists don’t make the day trip to Thirassia Island, so it remains relatively untouched by visitors. This makes it the perfect off-the-beaten-path destination in Santorini if you find yourself wanting to venture away from the crowds.

There are a few hotels on the island, but you’ll mostly find a lot of vineyards and natural spaces. One of the best ways to see the island is by renting an electric mountain bike to explore. 

If you don’t have your own transport, you can see a number of these stops on this full-day cruise .

Day 4 – Food and Wine Tour & an Evening in Fira

Go on a wine or food tour.

To close out your 4 days in Santorini, consider a relaxing wine tour. Santorini is well known for having several great wineries and vineyards for visitors to tour.

You can easily book a tour out of Fira or Oia for an educational and fun exploration of Greek wine such as this half-day tour . If you’re more of a foodie, maybe you would rather book a food tour such as this 5-hour tour to enjoy all the delicious Greek food you’ll find on the island.

A few types of yummy Greek food to have on your list might be fava beans, tomato fritters, Greek salad, or Saganaki. Remember to eat and drink to your heart’s content while visiting Santorini, and the rest of Greece as well.

Sunset and nightlife in Fira

It’s your last night in Santorini. Find a bar or restaurant to enjoy a drink or meal and watch the sun sink below the horizon. Settle into a cliffside bar in Fira or perch at the top of Amoudi Bay near Oia to enjoy the view.

The sunset in Santorini is perhaps one of the most well-known attractions of the island. Bear in mind that you’ll most likely encounter some heavy crowds when the sun is going down, especially in Oia and Fira.

If you want to watch from somewhere in these towns, try to get there early for a comfortable seat. You can also get a unique vantage point by taking a sunset cruise .

Where to Stay in Santorini

Kalimera Hotel – A family-run hotel located close to a couple of different beaches, they offer basic comfortable rooms suitable for couples and families. Breakfast is included and there is a swimming pool at the hotel.

Seaside Breeze – An upscale hotel that offers both standard rooms and larger suites with all rooms having their own balcony. There is a terrace, pool and breakfast daily for guests making it a great place to stay in Santorini.

Remezzo Villas – A luxurious option, primarily offering suites with stunning sea views. There is the option to include breakfast and a lovely swimming pool and terrace.

Caveland Hostel – Located in a small village on Santorini, this hostel is set in an old winery and offers both private rooms and dorms. There is a kitchen and swimming pool for guests to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Santorini!

Your Santorini itinerary should be catered to the kind of experience you’re envisioning. There is truly something for everyone on this island. Sunset viewings are an absolute must.

Choose to spend your days relaxing around town or setting out to explore the rest of the island. No matter how many days you have in Santorini, visiting this Greek island will be a trip that you’ll never forget.

Are you planning a trip to Santorini? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Audrey Webster

Audrey Webster is a writer for The World Was Here First. She is an Oregon native who has visited countries across the globe and currently spends her weekends exploring the Pacific Northwest and surrounding states. Her approach to traveling combines exploring famous tourist sites and wandering off the beaten path to discover new destinations.

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The Ultimate 3 Days in Santorini Itinerary

White-washed villages, dramatic coastline, scrumptious wine, and awe-inspiring caldera views: the list of things that people dream of when deciding to spend 3 days in Santorini is as long as it is accurate.

This island dances in the dreams of so many visitors to Greece–us included–and we’re happy to report that Santorini more than lives up to expectations.

We were blown away by this magnificent volcanic gem, which is so much more than its reputation as an #instagrammable backdrop (though it does live up to expectations there, too)–and after spending a few days in Santorini, we think you’ll agree.

We’ve structured this 3 day Santorini itinerary to show you the best of the island in just a few days.

While Santorini may look small on the map, you may be surprised by just how much beauty and adventure is packed into this small speck in the Aegean Sea!

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Table of Contents

Day 1 in Santorini: Fira to Oia Hike & Sunset in Oia

Day 2 in santorini: exploring the caldera via boat, day 3 in santorini: exploring the villages of santorini + an epic wine tour, where to stay in santorini, what to pack for santorini, more than 3 days in santorini, getting around santorini, the best time to visit santorini, map of places mentioned in this 3 day santorini itinerary, kick off your 3 days in santorini with the most epic santorini attraction: hiking from fira to oia..

If there’s one thing that you absolutely have to do in Santorini, it’s hiking from Fira to Oia.

The hike takes roughly 3 to 5 hours, depending on how fast you walk and exactly how many hundreds of photos you take (hint: it’s probably going to be a lot).

The hike isn’t particularly challenging, but you will be tired by the end! It’s worth every step, though: hiking from Fira to Oia is one of the most gorgeous and memorable travel experiences we have ever had.

If you’re traveling during the summer, be sure to start hiking as early as you can possibly pull yourself out of bed: there is essentially no shade on this hike and it can get extremely hot! Pack plenty of water , as well as cash to pick up snacks and drinks along the way.

Explore Oia & watch one of the most famous sunsets in the world.

Dazzling Oia is the most luxurious spot on all of Santorini, home to countless luxury hotels, delicious restaurants, and spell-binding views–including some of the most famous ones on the island.

Spend the afternoon aimlessly wandering through Oia–be sure to appreciate the magnificent views from all angles, enjoy a leisurely lunch of Greek food, visit Amoudi Bay, and eventually watch one of the most famous sunsets in the world.

If you’re a book-lover like us , be sure to also stop by Atlantis Books while you are there!

If you’re not staying in Oia, you can catch a bus or taxi at the bus station to take you back to the village you are staying in after the sun sets.

However, if you’re traveling during the summer, be aware that the taxis and buses can fill up around this time, so be prepared to deal with crowds.

Exploring the caldera via boat is an absolute must-do during your 3 days in Santorini–but deciding exactly what kind of boat trip you want to head out on will depend on what kind of travel you have in mind for your Santorini itinerary.

Are you a luxury seeker interested in stunning views and dinner on the water, or an adventure seeker looking for hot springs and a short hike?

Perhaps you’re even interested in both–if so, there’s nothing stopping you from taking an active tour during the day and then a romantic sunset cruise at night!

Here are a couple of popular boating options in Santorini–we personally chose the format of the first trip and had an incredibly memorable time.

For Adventurers: Peer into a volcano crater & swim in hot springs.

Did you know that you can hike to the volcano crater that once erupted to create Santorini as we know it today? Or that you can swim in volcanic hot springs right next door?

Well, you can–and it’s even better than it sounds!

Visiting Nea Kameni was one of our personal highlights from our trip, and we highly recommend adding it to your 3 day Santorini itinerary.

This fun tour will take you to Nea Kameni to see the crater, to the hot springs, and to Thirassia island, all in one day!

And, because this is Santorini, the boat ride to get to each of these places is almost as incredible as the locations themselves.

Book your boat tour to the volcano crater and hot springs today!

For Luxury Seekers: Watch the sunset, admire villages, and enjoy dinner, plus hot springs!

Are you picturing an all-day splurge for your day on the water in Santorini?

This incredibly popular and well-reviewed tour doesn’t include a hike to the volcano crater like the one above, but it does include a meal served on the boat, a peek at several beaches (including the White Beach, which is only accessible by boat), and longer spent out exploring than the tour listed above.

You will get a chance to swim during this experience, including at the hot springs, but you’ll also spend plenty of time admiring beautiful views with access to an open bar and a meal!

Choose the later start time to enjoy the sunset on the water, or an earlier start with lunch if you want to spend the brightest hours of the day on the water before returning to Santorini for a leisurely dinner on the island.

Book your sunset cruise in Santorini today!

A Note on Day 3 Transportation: Tour or Car Rental

For the morning portion of your third day on Santorini, you’ll need transportation to explore.

You have a few options: first, you could rent a car ( check Discover Cars for price + inclusion comparisons) or an ATV to travel around the island.

Or, if you’d rather not be responsible for taking care of a vehicle on Santorini, you can book a tour of Santorini’s villages to hit up some memorable spots without having to worry about navigating the island.

However, we really recommend renting a car or ATV for the morning if you’re open to it!

Start your morning with a visit to Red Beach.

If you didn’t already visit Santorini’s beautiful Red Beach as part of your boat tour (or if you just want a second look), it’s the perfect place to start your third day on the island!

The beach is about a 7-15 minute walk from the parking lot, and requires a bit of a hike down a trail to get to–but it is gorgeous.

Even if you don’t plan on swimming, the nearby views are worth a peek!

Visit the remains of a Bronze Age settlement at Akrotiri.

The impressive ruins of a Bronze Age city may not be what Santorini is best known for, but they’re worth adding to your 3 day Santorini itinerary!

The Minoan civilization that once called Akrotiri home was related to Cretan civilization, and therefore unrelated to the Greek people who call the area home today.

The city is said to have been buried in a volcanic eruption in 16th century BCE, and is one of several locations that are theorized to possibly have been the origin of the legend of Atlantis.

The excavation of Akrotiri began in 1967, and today you can visit the remains of the city, including impressive frescoes and many artifacts found on site.

Explore more beautiful villages of Santorini.

For a small island, Santorini is home to a surprising number of distinct, beautiful villages.

Here are a few to consider visiting on your third day exploring the island!

Want to step foot on a volcanic black sand beach during your 3 days in Santorini? Head to Kamari!

The beaches are easy to access, beautiful, and a great quick pit stop during your time exploring Santorini.

Located at the highest point on the island, Pyrgos is home to some of the most beautiful views in Santorini–and the views while getting there isn’t hard of the eyes, either.

The oldest and often considered the most traditional village in Santorini, Emporio is the perfect place to get a peek at what was once traditional life on Santorini while also enjoying a gorgeous spot on the island.

You’ll pass through Imerovigli during your hike from Fira to Oia, but if you need another chance to admire the village’s epic caldera views before saying goodbye to Santorini, there’s no shame in heading back up!

Close out your 3 days in Santorini with an incredible wine tour.

Santorini’s wines are delightful.

Mount-wateringly delicious and fairly inexpensive, spending an afternoon exploring the many fabulous wines of the island is an unbeatable way to close out your 3 days in Santorini.

This popular tour is the perfect way to explore some of Santorini’s most incredible wines–often with perfect views to match–without having to worry about being responsible for your own transportation of picking a designated driver.

Book your Santorini wine tour now!

When choosing what village to stay in during your 3 days in Santorini, there are two main things to keep in mind: views and price.

Most people who decide to visit Santorini are dreaming of stunning caldera views and infinity pools–and while those definitely exist on the island, you’ll pay a pretty penny for them!

If your goal is stunning views and an iconic Santorini experience at any cost, Oia is the place for you.

If you have the same goal as above but also want to prioritize a quiet environment and stay away from the hustle and bustle of Oia, look at staying in Imerovigli.

If you want to still be in the middle of the action and get that classic Santorini vibe while saving a bit of money, Fira or Firostefani might be the place for you.

If you want to stay in a (relatively, this is still Santorini) affordable location with access to some of Santorini’s best beaches , look at places in Kamari or Perissa.

I’ve linked a few hotels below that will give you an idea of the price range and availability you’re looking at in Santorini, all of which receive excellent reviews and are located in once of the villages I’ve mentioned here.

If you see a property you like and your travel dates are set, let me make a recommendation: book it !

While it often seems like new boutique properties are popping up on the island daily, Santorini is still a relatively small place, and locations come at a premium.

For that reason, I can’t stress enough: if you have a specific Santorini experience in mind, whether that’s an all-out luxury honeymoon in Oia or a chance to see the island on as low of a budget as possible, book as far in advance as you can.

This is especially true if you’re traveling in high season, when properties regularly sell out 6-12 months ahead of time.

Since most properties are small and may only include a few rooms or villas, it doesn’t take many people choosing to stay there to completely wipe a property off the market for your dates.

Makris Beach Hotel (Kamari) — Located right on the beach, Makris Beach Hotel gets excellent reviews and boasts both comfortable rooms and an included breakfast. While you won’t have caldera views, you’ll find that the location in Kamari does help bring down the price as compared to the cost of staying in other villages on Santorini!

Check rates & book your stay at Makris Beach Hotel!

Altemar Suites (Fira) — Boasting beautiful views and an outdoor hot tub to admire them from, you can’t go wrong with the mid-range price, creature comforts, or excellent location near the center of Fira with a stay at Altemar Suites during your 3 days in Santorini.

Check rates & book your stay at Altemar Suites!

Cleo’s Dream Villa (Oia) — This stunning villa is a perfect example of the kind of luxury properties that are tucked into the cliffs around Oia. Located directly below the iconic blue domes and offering both a perfect location and plenty of privacy, this gorgeous villa is home to a hot tub overlooking the caldera, once-in-a-lifetime views, a beautiful interior, and a spacious layout.

Check rates & book your stay at Cleo’s Dream Villa!

Travel Insurance — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and the last thing you want is your 3 days in Santorini to be interrupted by worrying about a crisis. We use and recommend Safety Wing for trips to Greece.

International Driving Permit — If you’re coming from outside the EU and plan to rent a car during your 3 days in Santorini, you’ll need to make sure to acquire an International Driving Permit in your home country, before coming to Greece.

It is required for all car rentals in Greece, and while the rental company may not ask for it, it’s not worth the risk of being refused a car once you arrive in Santorini or getting a fine if you’re pulled over to be without one. 

Travel Adaptors for Greece  — If you’re coming from outside of Europe, you’ll definitely need adaptors for your electronics.

Do you have more than 3 days in Santorini and want to expand your itinerary? It’s certainly easy to do!

We spent more than 3 days on the island and still left feeling like we would love to stay longer, not so much because of a long list of must-see spots on the island that we didn’t get a chance to see, but because it’s just so ridiculously pleasant existing on Santorini that we didn’t want to leave.

If you have more than 3 days in Santorini, consider walking down to Fira’s Old Port and either taking the cable car or hiking back up, attending a movie at an open-air cinema on the island (Mamma Mia and My Big Fat Greek Wedding are popular choices), taking a kayaking tour to explore the caldera in a different way, going scuba diving, walking to Skaros Rock, visiting the lighthouse on the southern end of the island, or splurging in a major way on a helicopter tour around Santorini.

We’ve structured this 3 day Santorini itinerary so that you will really only need private transportation on the final day, as long as you are staying within one of the main villages along the caldera.

Many tours in Santorini provide pick-up and drop-off services, so if you book a tour, you should be able to get to just about anywhere you need to go.

If you prefer independent travel, Santorini’s bus system is very useful and there are plenty of taxis on the island.

However, if you’re traveling during the summer, be aware that these fill up quickly, especially along the Fira-to-Oia hike in the afternoon, when people are all trying to get home after a long day of hiking.

If you’re staying further out in a more isolated property without a bus stop nearby, you may want to consider renting a car for the duration of your time on Santorini if you want to be able to get around yourself.

The overall best time to spend 3 days in Santorini is widely considered to be April – May and late September – October, when the crowds are lower than during the summer but you’ll have better weather and more businesses operating on the island than in the true low season (November – February).

If you’re looking for hot weather and don’t mind the crowds, summer will be the perfect time for you to spend 3 days in Santorini, and even to visit as part of a larger Greek island hopping trip .

We personally visited Santorini in mid-March and adored it.

The water was too cold to swim (October would have a leg up on shoulder season travel for that), but we had absolutely no other complaints: the weather was sunny and beautiful, the crowds were low (we only ran into five other hikers between Fira and Oia!), and most restaurants and tour companies were up and running.

As a bonus, many businesses had high season prices being advertised as starting April 1, so we snuck in just under the wire and experienced perks like a cheaper car rental because of it.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

8 thoughts on “The Ultimate 3 Days in Santorini Itinerary”

Santorini is my dream destination, I will go there very soon.

Thanks for your awesome travel guide. Photos are really mind-blowing.

Mind-blowing is the right word for those views! Hope you have a great time on the island.

Which was the best winery in the wine tour?

We personally only visited one winery on Santorini, which is also one of the most popular: Santo.

We highly recommend it! The wines were great, customer service wonderful, and the views from their deck are absolutely AMAZING.

Prices are a little high for food, but that’s hardly surprising for a famous winery in Santorini, so we didn’t mind.

Hi Kate, We really like and appreciate your writing. Any thoughts on how to best spend only one day in Santorini? We’re tendering in from a cruise ship, and really want to make the best of our day. Thanks for any advice you can give or point us to.

Depends on what you’re looking for, I’d say… if you’re more interested in being out on the water, I’d consider a boat tour. If you’re more interested in the architecture and views around Santorini, I’d head to Oia–it’ll be crowded, but it’s the most iconic part of Santorini.

If you have most of the day, you could also consider hiking from Fira to Oia (or visa versa), which is probably the most typically-Santorini thing to do on the island!

I love your travel blog. I am from UK living in Australia – yearning for an extended Europe adventure. Hubby nursed me through breast cancer over 5 years and has just had surgery himself for prostate cancer. We desperately need a holiday to reset. We’d like a back road – “connect with locals” kind of trip- I fell in love with Santorini after reading your blog. Would like to spend at least a week. Also like to visit somewhere I can attend art classes for a couple of weeks (possibly Italy) September travel would be good as I’d like to swim. Maybe also Athens or Malta or Majorca to explore the history, caves, monuments. Any suggestions re airlines from AU to Europe? Any chance you can help create a once in life time itinerary with me? X Julie

Thank you so much, Julie!

Glad you and your husband both made it through your respective health challenges.

Art classes abound in Italy–I’d recommend looking in Tuscany to start.

As far as swimming/history/caves/monuments, in addition to the places you mentioned, you may also take a look at Puglia, Sardinia/Corsica, and Croatia.

Santorini is absolutely stunning, but if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, you may want to pick a lesser-known island or the off-season!

Unfortunately I don’t have the capacity to offer trip planning services (and I’ve never been to Oceania at all, so I don’t know the first thing about flights from AU), but I’m always happy to answer a few specific questions and point readers in the right direction! Feel free to email me any questions that pop up as you plan.

The hardest part is narrowing down where to go, but the good news is that there are so many wonderful places to see that odds are you’ll have an incredible time no matter where you choose. 🙂

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3 Days in Santorini: A First Time Visitor’s Guide and Epic Santorini Itinerary

last Updated: October 4, 2022 greece santorini

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Heading to Greece soon and looking for the best things to do in Santorini? Only have a short amount of time? Don’t fret – you can still fulfill all your idyllic whitewashed Greek Island fantasies with only 3 days in Santorini.

Spanakopita. Sapphire Aegean Waters. Candy colored houses. Gleaming white buildings.

Oh, just a few things that make up the wonderful-ness that is Santorini. If you’re visiting Greece in the near future, make sure you include at least 3 days in Santorini.

And if you follow the advice in this Santorini travel blog and/or this Santorini itinerary, you’re already ahead of the game! Wondering what to do in Santorini, Greece? Keep on reading, my Mediterranean, feta-loving friend!

Santorini is an island that has it all – hypnotic sunsets, volcanoes rising out of the blue Aegean Sea, cave house accommodations, and of course those stereotypical (but equally as beautiful) blue-domed churches amidst whitewashed stone buildings.   As with Rome , Santorini is just one of those places I’d gladly revisit time and time again.

And after visiting 30+ countries , I can easily say that Greece and its painstakingly breathtaking islands are by far one of my favorites.  While three days in Santorini sure isn’t enough, it’s a wonderful introduction to Greek island life and will have you longing for return visits time and time again.

When to Visit Santorini

The best times to visit Santorini are April-May and September-October.  During these times, the weather will be a bit milder (not as scorching hot during the day), and less crowded.  

The weather in the winter months (November – March) is not ideal (definitely can’t go in for a quick Mediterranean beach dip) and many businesses (tour operators, restaurants, and even some hotels/ accommodations) will be closed for the season, although this is beginning to change as more tourists are visiting during these months.

Note that prime time/high season is between late June to early September, and hotel prices will naturally reflect that.

Quick Reference Guide of when to visit Santorini:

• Best beach and swimming weather: June to September
• Best sightseeing weather: March to June and September to November
• High Season: late June until early September
• Low Season/Winter: late November to early March

Where to Stay in Santorini

Tourists choose to stay in four main villages of Santorini, as listed below.  However, wherever you do decide to stay, I highly encourage you to opt for a hotel with an infinity pool overlooking the caldera.  We based ourselves in Imerovigli at Astra Suites during our time in Santorini, and couldn’t have been happier.  Many luxury hotels boast private hot tubs, butler services, fine-dining, and other top-notch amenities.

A few things to note when thinking about accommodation in Santorini:

• There are no big chain hotels on the island. The best spots are small, privately owned boutique hotels.
• If you’re visiting other places on your Greek honeymoon or throughout Europe, Santorini is the place to splurge on accommodation. Once you see the views, you’ll quickly understand why.
• Decide which part of the island you want to stay before doing specific research on hotels. You essentially have two choices: along the caldera (in Oia, Fira/Firostefani, or Imerovigli) which boast spectacular sunset and Mediterranean Sea and volcano views, or on one of the beach towns on the other side of the island (Kamari or Perissa), which are a bit less expensive and right on the beach, but missing those epic views that Santorini is very well known for.
• Note that prices range significantly between hotel accommodations depending on the season. A luxury hotel can cost upwards of $800+ a night during high season, while the same room may cost a few hundred less during low/off season. Just something to keep in mind while planning your three days in Santorini. 🙂

If you’re planning on visiting Santorini during high season, it’s best to book your accomodation at least 6-10 months in advance. No, I’m not kidding. Hotels book up super fast in this area of the world. Aka – if you’re visiting during June, July, August, or September, get on it, fast.

• Oia: If you want to be right in the middle of the action and don’t mind paying a price for it, a stay in Oia is just for you. Top Recommended hotels in Oia:
• Budget-ish: Fava Eco Residences , Aethrio , Fileria Suites
• Mid-Level: Thirea Suites and Studios – Adults Only , Nikkos Villas , Aisling Micro Hotel
• Luxury: Andronis Luxury Suites , Alexander’s Boutique Hotel , Katikies Hotel
• Imerovigli: If you want some peace and quiet and impeccable views, consider spending your nights in Imerovigli. Top Recommended hotels in Imerovigli:
• Budget-ish: Remezzo Villas , Athiri Santorini , Pantheon Villas
• Mid-Level: Astra Suites , Rocabella Santorini Hotel , Casa di Mare
• Luxury: Dreams Luxury Suites , San Antonio, Sophia Luxury Suites, Grace Santorini

• Fira: Santorini’s capital, which has tons of wonderful restaurants and a decent amount of night life. Top Recommended hotels in Fira:
• Budget-ish: Panorama Studios and Suites , Oasis Hotel, Sunset Hotel
• Mid-Level: Belvedere Suites , Fanari Vista Suites , On the Cliff
• Luxury: Homeric Poems , Sun Rocks Boutique Hotel , Cosmopolitan Suites
• Budget: Margarenia Studios , Iliada Hotel , Perissa Bay
• Mid-Level: Anastasia Princess Hotel, Villa the Birds
• Luxury: Sea View Perivolos , Memories Beach

Top Things to do in Santorini

Whether you’re spending 3 days in Santorini to relax with cocktails on the beach/infinity pool, or hoping to add a bit more adventure into the mix, this tiny island (and Santorini itinerary) won’t leave you disappointed. If all else fails, just stuff your face with some feta and spanakopita and you’ll leave happy as a clam.

Despite Santorini’s diversity, the island is rather small so you can really see it all, even with limited time. My top recommendations on things to do in Santorini below, either experienced by me or by close friends!

ATV Tour around the Island

Spend a full day in Santorini by renting an ATV (quad), dune buggy, scooter, or car and explore the island.  Try not to rent an ATV in Oia as you will pay a premium at this location.  One of my most favorite things to do in Santorini, and I made sure to do this both times I visited the island.

A few spots to visit during your self-guided ATV tour of Santorini:

Red Beach : One of Santorini’s most unique spots, and not to be missed!  Note that the sand is full of volcanic pebbles and you will need to take a 15 minute mini-hike to reach the beach down below.  

I suggest stopping for a few photos and then moving on.  Those azure blue waters are just aching to be photographed.

Perissa Beach: This is one of Santorini’s black sand beaches, and a good place to pop down for a bit and savor the Greek sun.  The black volcanic sand is extremely hot hot hot, so take your sandals with you if you go into the water (or run back miserably like I did…)  

This stretch of sand is lined with restaurants and bars, and be sure to grab a gyro and a cocktail here!

Oia : You cannot come all the way to Santorini (yes, it’s kind of a pain getting here) and not witness the charm of Oia yourself.  More details below, but Oia is a great last stop on an ATV tour of the island.

However, beware: the area gets over-crowded and disgustingly hot during the summer months of July and August. But I promise you, even if you’re visiting during these months, an afternoon in Oia is still one of the best things to do in Santorini.

If navigating the island via ATV scares your socks off, consider joining a bus tour to all the hot spots in Santorini. Not only will you visit Santorini’s most popular sites and learn about its history, but you’ll also visit traditional villages, volcanic beaches and witness one of those spectacular Oia sunsets everyone raves about!

If you want to guarantee you see the island and have enough time for the beach (on another day), I highly recommend joining this tour in order to get it all in. Read reviews and book your full-day bus tour here.

Santorini Wine Tour

Calling all wine-lovers. I repeat! Attention wine lovers! A half-day wine tour is a must on any three day Santorini itinerary. Santorini wines are some of the best in Greece, and this half-day wine tour takes you to three of the best wineries on the island.

Not only will you sample 12 different wine styles (yes, really 12!), but these wines will be served with cheese, salami, and Greek olives. #yesplease

And since you’ll be probably a bit wobbly after all these tastings, thankfully the tour includes complimentary pickup and drop off service, from all hotels/apartments throughout Santorini (including Oia and Fira). One less thing to worry about. Read reviews and book your wine tour here.  

Wondering what to do in Santorini, Greece besides hit up the beach? WINE, my friend.  Don’t miss this.

Foot Path Hike from Fira to Oia

The views, the landscapes, the peacefulness – you’ll be glad you took this stroll along the caldera. The walk takes about three hours, but the views are 100% worth it!  Be sure to take a decent amount of water with you, as the stalls are few and far between.  You may not find water for over an hour.  

However, it’s not a good choice for those with vertigo – take the bus or your ATV to Oia instead!

Boat Cruise to Nea Kameni and Hot Springs

Since the island was formed via volcano, it’s quite appropriate to visit the volcanic island of Nea Kameni by no other than sailing to it! You’ll have the opportunity to walk up the ascending soil path, and approach the crater of the active volcano.

Your second stop will bring you to the second lava island of Palea Kameni, where you can swim in the green sulphur waters of the hot springs. Make sure to wear your bathing suit! Read reviews and book your boat cruise here.

Definitely one of more active things to do in Santorini, and a good option if you like being on the water and/or are exhausted from laying out at the pool (should that ever happen…).

Santorini Cooking Class

With all those Mediterranean flavors you’ve hopefully been tasting during your meals, you may be wishing you can recreate these at home! You’re in luck, because this tour will be right up your alley (especially if you enjoy a nice wine or two).

Not only will you learn how to cook with a professional chef, but you’ll also visit premier wineries in the Greek countryside (with 9 wine tastings!), taste traditional Greek aperitifs such as Raki and Ouzo, and enjoy a complimentary lunch in a traditional restaurant. Read reviews and book your cooking class/wine tour here.

Watch the sunset

Yes, the sunset in Oia is pure magic, but the sunset from Imerovigli is just as spectacular, and with way less crowds.  If you have your heart set on the famed Oia sunset, be sure to get there especially early in order to claim your spot.  

When I say it gets crowded, it really gets ridiculously crowded, meaning you’ll be sharing your romantic sunset spot with 100’s of other people.  If you booked a hotel in either Oia or Imerovigli, simply hang on your terrace/balcony and watch the sun dip below the sea alone, a glass of bubbly optional.  😉

Explore Oia

Oia is stunning.  There’s just no other words for it.  There are postcard views at every corner you turn, but because of this, it’s also the busiest town on all of the island.  Don’t let this deter you from visiting though – as Oia just cannot be missed.  Wander around to the cliff side by walking down random steps you find, and you’ll come across those spectacular views you came for.  

After exploring the town of Oia, make your way down the many steps to Ammoudi Bay , the little fishing village below.  You’ll be greeted with a different view of Oia, including fishermen catching their fish of the day.  Enjoy a fantastic seafood meal here, seaside!  

Feeling adventurous?  Head east along the path a bit, and you’ll come across a tiny island located just off the shore.  This spot is super popular for cliff jumping (ahhhh) and swimming.  

Tired?  You can hire a donkey to take you back up to Oia, but I don’t condone it as I’m not sure how the animals are treated.  Be sure to take a photo though – they are seriously cute adorned in all their fancy decorations!  

Go scuba diving

Santorini boasts crystal clear ocean waters, so put on your gear and get below the water!   You’ll see plenty of colorful fish, a shipwreck or two, all while swimming in some of the most beautiful waters of the world.

Never been scuba diving before?  Don’t fret – there are numerous companies offering Discover Scuba lessons, who will teach you all the necessary requirements before suiting up and getting into the waters.  

Relax at your Hotel

Sure, you may have come to Santorini to see the sites, but nothing is better than spending a bit of time relaxing at your hotel, especially if you’re on your honeymoon.  In order to fully maximize this experience, I highly advise you to choose accommodation on the caldera with an infinity pool overlooking the scenic Mediterranean Sea.  

And plus, if you’re visiting in the heat of the summer, any respite from the scorching temps will be an absolute haven. Plan to spend at least one half day during your 3 days in Santorini to just chill on a chaise lounge, some wine or cocktail in hand.

Where and What to Eat

If you’ve got heaps more time after you’ve completed all the things to do in Santorini, just spend the rest of your days eating. Santorini is a haven for Mediterranean food lovers, and there’s enough variety to try different dishes at every meal.

My favorites: fava beans, saganaki, spanakopita, gyros, and Greek salad, but you can’t go wrong with any on the list.

Recommended Restaurants:

• Seafood dinner/meal at Dimitris
• Ammoudi Fish Tavern
• Nikolas Taverna
• Lucky’s Souvlaki
• Gyros at Pito Gyros in Oia
• Breakfast at Mylos Bar Restaurant in Firostefani
• Best restaurants with caldera view: Mezzo, Athenian House, Argo, Naoussa, La Maison, and Ambrosia.
• Best coffee in Santorini is at Passaggio (Oia) and Pure (Fira).

Things to eat during your 3 days in Santorini:

• Tomato Gefthedes (tomato fritters)
• Spanakopita (spinach pie)
• Saganaki (fried cheese in filo pastry covered in honey)
• Greek Salad – eat all the feta and then some.
• Souvlaki and Gyros
• Keftes/Kofta (ground meat, kind of like sausages)
• Pomegranates
• Roasted Greek lamb
• Fava me Koukia (mashed up fava beans)
• Mythos Beer

Are you heading to Greece soon? What are you most looking forward to on your Santorini itinerary?!

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November 29, 2017 at 11:40 pm

I wish I had read this before I went. I spent three days there with my sister last year and loved every minute of it. Such an incredible place!

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Santorini, Greece

Greece › Santorini Travel Guide Updated: March 10, 2024 By Santorini Dave

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The view of Oia from Skaros Rock in Imerovigli , Santorini. The hike along the caldera is my favorite thing to do in Santorini.

Santorini is the most spectacular island in Greece and one of the geologic treasures of Europe. The five villages of Fira , Oia , Imerovigli , Firostefani , and Akrotiri sit atop the caldera and offer spectacular views into the crater created from a 16th-century BC volcanic eruption. What remains is an incredible sight and a magical setting for island hikes , infinity pools , luxury hotels , clifftop wineries , and dreamy sunset dinners . With a land area of 76 square kilometers, Santorini is a little bigger than New York’s island of Manhattan. The 2024 Santorini Travel Guide Skip to our Santorini FAQ

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Frequently Asked Questions about Santorini

See Also: Greece: Tips & Information for First-Timers

Where is Santorini?

Santorini is an island in Greece, located in the Aegean Sea, 200 km southeast of Athens , 150 km south of Mykonos , and 140 km north of Crete . Flights to Santorini take 4 hours from London, 3.5 hours from Paris, 2 hours from Rome, and 1 hour from Athens. There are no direct flights to Santorini from the USA, Canada, or Australia.

How do I get to Santorini?

There are multiple daily Athens to Santorini ferries (4.5 to 6 hours by highspeed ferry). The islands of Naxos, Paros, Ios, Milos, Folegandros, Mykonos, and Crete (1 to 3 hours) will have direct ferries from April to early November, and sometimes year-round for Naxos and Paros. Flights from Athens to Santorini take less than 1 hour, direct flights from western Europe (London, Paris, Amsterdam, Rome, Venice) take 2 to 4 hours.

Santorini Ferry Port Video

How big is Santorini? Santorini has a population of 15,500 and a land area of 76 square kilometers (an area a little bigger than Manhattan). The length of the island is 16 km and its width varies from 1 to 5 km. It takes 45 minutes to drive from one end of Santorini to the other. What is the best month to go to Santorini? The best time to visit Santorini for good weather, boat tours, swimming, sunbathing, and nightlife is from June to September. If beach time and hot weather are not a necessity and you’re more interested in sightseeing, history, hiking, and exploring then late March, April, May, October, and early November are also great. What are the main towns in Santorini? The towns of Fira, Oia, Firostefani, Imerovigli, and Akrotiri cling to the 300m cliffs and have magical views of the caldera and volcano to the west. The beach towns of Kamari, Perissa, Perivolos, and Agios Georgios are on the east and south sides of the island (not the caldera).

Do I need a car in Santorini? A car can be helpful to have in Santorini, but it is not necessary. It’s easy to get around Santorini using their public bus service, which is cheap, comfortable, and reliable – especially if you’re staying in Fira, the central hub of the bus system. If you prefer renting a car in Santorini instead of relying on the bus, I recommend picking it up at the airport, even if you are arriving by ferry. There is a very limited number of taxis, and Uber is not available on Santorini, so private transport from the Santorini airport or ferry port is best arranged in advance through your hotel or through Welcome Pickups car service. There will always be a public bus to meet all arriving ferries. Buses in Santorini are comfortable, cheap, and have plenty of room for luggage.

Where should I stay in Santorini?

The best places to stay in Santorini are along the caldera in the villages of Fira, Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani. These towns have incredible views of the volcano, sea, and sunset. All of these towns are on the west side of Santorini.

What are the best things to do in Santorini?

The best things to do on Santorini include hiking the incredible caldera footpath, touring wineries, doing a boat tour of the caldera (with volcano hike/hot spring swimming/sunset), and visiting the island’s small charming villages. There is a vibrant nightlife with everything from wine bars to dance clubs but it’s never rowdy and the club scene is easily avoided if you’re not interested. The view of the volcano and Skaros Rock from the amazing Astra Suites Hotel in Imerovigli. How was Santorini created? Santorini is what remains from a massive volcanic eruption 3600 years ago. The eruption destroyed all settlements and created the caldera. The caldera is a lagoon of seawater surrounded on 3 sides by the steep cliffs of Santorini and on the 4th side by the island of Thirassia (which was part of Santorini before the eruption). The current volcano (on the island of Nea Kameni) sits in the middle of the caldera. It’s active but presently not at risk of erupting. This is a good video on the Santorini volcano .

How many days should I spend in Santorini?

Stay a minimum of 2 days and 2 nights. But there’s so much to see and do that it’s easy to fill 5 to 7 days. If possible, do one boat tour , one wine tour , hike the Fira to Oia footpath , explore the villages of Pyrgos and Emporio, and visit the historical sites of Akrotiri and Ancient Thera. You’ll also want plenty of time to wander the cobblestoned lanes and alleys of Fira, Oia, and Imerovigli. Then there’s nightlife and all the great places to eat on Santorini . Santorini does not have the best beaches in Greece – they’re mostly pebble beaches – but the swimming is divine. What currency is used in Santorini? Greece is part of the European Union, so the currency used in Santorini is the Euro (€). Most shops and restaurants on Santorini accept credit cards, but it is a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases like bottled water and snacks. ATMs are easy to find in all of Santorini’s main towns.

Most restaurants in Santorini, like Marinera in Fira, accept credit cards.

Is Santorini expensive? Santorini is known for 5-star luxury hotels, great restaurants, and high-end shopping but it’s easy to visit Santorini on a modest budget. There are no all-inclusive resorts on Santorini so the key to saving money is to choose hotels and restaurants not directly on the caldera. Enjoying the incredible views is free and cheap hotels in Santorini are plentiful, good value, and good quality. Watch a movie overlooking the caldera at Volkan Cinema in Fira. But for the best movie experience in Santorini head to the Kamari Open Air Cinema . What towns and hotels have the best caldera views? The towns of Fira , Firostefani , Imerovigli , Oia , and Akrotiri are perched on the Santorini cliff and offer incredible views of the caldera and volcano. Not all hotels in these towns have caldera views but many do and the ones that don’t are a short walk (sometimes just steps) from the caldera’s edge, so staying at a caldera hotel isn’t necessary to enjoy the views. Each town offers a unique perspective and there isn’t any one town with the absolute best views. Imerovigli generally has the best sunset views but even this is open to debate and each of the caldera villages has a reasonable claim to having the island’s best views.

The Honeymoon Suite at Athina Luxury Suites in Fira.

• Athens Travel Guide
• Crete Travel Guide
• Halkidiki Travel Guide
• Mainland Greece Travel Guide
• Mykonos Travel Guide
• Naxos Travel Guide
• Paros Travel Guide
• Santorini Travel Guide
• Greece – What to Know Before You Go
• Complete Greece Travel Guide
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About Santorini Dave

for Solo Travel Over 50

Best of Santorini in 3 Days (2023)

No longer off the beaten path, Santorini is a popular island destination that offers stunning views and a taste of Greek island life. With just a long weekend to explore, here’s how to make the most of your time in idyllic Santorini in 3 days.

As you’ll notice from the tips throughout , this Santorini itinerary is intentionally written for the first time Santorini solo traveler and/or older traveler (I am over 50 and have been traveling solo FOREVER). Yet, anyone can use this travel itinerary it to plan and book 3-day Santorini travel or more .

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All You Need for 3 Days in Santorini

The ultimate santorini solo travel guide, 5 must dos in santorini greece video, santorini day 1 – fira and sunset, santorini day 2 – wine tasting and oia sunset, santorini day 3 – akrotiri history and wine tasting, have only 2 days in santorini.

Here are all of the sites you need to successfully book this perfect 3 days in Santorini itinerary. I even give you my Fira hotel pick as a wonderful, sustainable and budget friendly option for long weekend Santorini solo travel.

I recommend you bookmark and use these sites early to lock in your 3-day Santorini itinerary and get the best Santorini Greece travel deals.

Cheap Flights to Santorini

Ferries to Santorini

Santorini Rental Cars

Best Fira Hotels

My Santorini Hotel Pick

Best Santorini Hostels

Akrotiri Prehistoric City w/ Audio Guide

Oia Sunset Highlights Tour w/ Wine Tasting

Wine Tasting Tour w/ Argyros Estate

Why You Don’t Need a Santorini Car Rental

Being an island, you’ll find that renting a car or ATV is popular. However, you don’t need to rent a car or ATV in Santorini to get around on this Santorini itinerary.

When you stay centrally in Fira, as on this itinerary, you can rely on walking and the public bus service for most of your transportation needs.

Catching a taxi (you’ll find many are shuttle buses) works for trips to wineries for self-guided trips. Your hotel and winery will be happy to call a taxi for you. Typical one-way fare is approximately 15 Euros plus tip.

If you really wish to drive between all points (I do not recommend when wine tasting, however), I would advise renting a car not an ATV. ATV’s are (obnoxiously) loud and not as convenient as a small rental car (think navigation and air conditioning needs).

In addition to this 3 day Santorini itinerary, don’t forget to use my Ultimate Guide to Santorini Solo Travel to plan your Greece solo travel. It is the ultimate one-stop-shop guide for all you need to know to plan a Santorini solo trip with:

• Best Time to Visit Santorini
• Getting to Santorini Greece
• How to Get Around Santorini
• Santorini Solo Travel Safety
• Essentials to Pack for Santorini
• Best Places to Stay in Santorini
• Best Things to Do in Santorini
• Santorini Dining, Nightlife and Shopping
• Best Booking Sites for Santorini Travel
• Top Santorini Budget and Ecotourism Travel Tips

If you’re a first-time traveler to Greece, also use my amazing Greece Solo Travel Guide full of tips on culture, entry requirements, currency, tipping, using electronics, safety, and a lot more.

More Greece Solo Travel

• Best of Zakynthos Greece in 3 Days
• The Ultimate Zakynthos Solo Travel Guide
• 7 Best Europe Beach Destinations for Solo Travelers

Yes, you will get to do all of these top Santorini activities in Santorini in three days. Watch the Santorini video and get inspired to start packing your bags.

Ways to Do Santorini MUST DOs

Book your flight to santorini early to save money, best three days in santorini itinerary.

I was first in Santorini in 1995 when it was off the beaten path, as far as Greek islands go, and had a rustic feel to it. Now, that Santorini is a thing of the past.

More and more tourists flock to Santorini. It’s better known towns, Fira and Oia, have more of a glitzy-glammy feel now with the high-end shopping and dining options. There are also more wine tasting tours.

Today’s Santorini can still provide, however, a mix of the rustic with the cosmopolitan befitting all tourist types, making this long weekend Santorini itinerary ideal.

That said, get ready to discover the best of today’s Santorini in just three days. From watching the sunset in Oia to exploring the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, exploring Fira to unforgettable wines, food, and friendly locals, this Santorini itinerary will help you make the most of your long weekend in Santorini, a stunning Greek island.

You won’t be rushed, but do put on your exploration hat and get ready to fall in love with the white-washed buildings, turquoise waters, ancient history, incredible wines, and the world-famous cuisine of Santorini.

You’ll leave realizing, yes, 3 days is enough in Santorini to capture some of its best attributes. You’ll also be planning your trip back.

Santorini Greece Itinerary and Pro Travel Tip s

• This itinerary assumes staying in Fira, or within walking distance of Fira, as my Santorini Solo Travel Guide suggests for first time Santorini travel.
• This itinerary works best checking into (or checking bags at) your hotel no later than noon.
• Travel in the shoulder season for good weather and daylight hours, less tourists, and lower costs, but no later than October to take advantage Santorini bus ‘ highest operating times.
• Always have cash on you for public bus tickets, shuttle services and tipping.
• It can get hot in Santorini. Make sure you stay hydrated and wear your good marine and reef safe sunscreen all day and for protecting the Greek marine environment.
• Stay hydrated , especially if your solo travel in Santorini is in peak season.
• Pack a light jacket or wrap for evenings. It can get pretty windy in Santorini and when the sun goes down, it can also get chilly.
• When at all possible, make an outdoor seating reservation in advance for a half-hour to hour before sunset for Fira, Firostefani and Oia restaurants and bars.
• If you ditch this itinerary for lounging on the black or red beaches, use the 25 solo travel essentials for going to the beach alone and top tips on how to do a solo beach trip .

Arrive Santorini

After checking your bags at your Fira hotel , change into something comfortable for walking and dining and hit the town of Fira.

Fira Walking Tour

The capital of Santorini, Fira has much to keep you occupied for an afternoon. Take a Fira self-guided walking tour to explore the dining options, shops, art studios, and historical spots such as the Three Bells of Fira , Candlemas Holy Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral of Thera , the Museum of Prehistoric Thira , or the MATI Art Gallery .

While walking, don’t forget to scope out the dining options facing the caldera for your first sunset in Santorini (if you don’t have a reservation). Need a recommendation? Try Argo Restaurant , V Lounge , The Vine , Nektar Lounge , or La Colline .

Fira Sunset

Oia is not the only place to enjoy the sunset with caldera views in Santorini. Fira has lovely sunsets, too.

If you weren’t able to make a reservation as a solo diner, get back to your restaurant or bar of choice early. I mean, early . Take a seat at the bar, if need be, as bars tend to have a “Greek Meze-style” menu. Seating in these strategically placed restaurants and bars fill up quickly with “campers” who will not move for hours until after the sun goes down.

Once seated, become a camper yourself and sip and dine at your leisure. The sun will do the rest.

Don’t wish to be alone your first night in Fira? Here are some walking tour and sunset cruise options with food and drinks for enjoying the afternoon and sunset in Fira and/or Firostefani (the town 15 minutes’ walking distance next door) as a solo traveler.

Dining and Sunset Alternatives for Santorini Day 1

After the sky has turned dark, easily walk back to your hotel for check in. Even if your hotel provides some bottled water daily, it’s best to get some more of your own to keep in your hotel room.

To be the most eco-friendly, do not buy a package of individual 8 or 16 oz bottles. Instead, buy one very large bottle (2 or 3 gallon) and simply refill your own re-usable water bottle you’ll be slinging all weekend in Santorini. Yes, it may be a little heavy, but it’s a one-time purchase which not only cuts down on plastic waste but will also save you money. Bonus.

After getting situated in your hotel, head back out to enjoy the nightlife in Fira. It’s known for it.

Popular night spots include the PK Cocktail Bar , with it’s multiple-tiered layout facing the caldera, ΑΙΩΝ Cocktail Bar on the water, and the Stoa Bar . If you like live music, try Kira Thira Jazz Bar .

After a long day of travel, fun and sun and you don’t want to walk back to your hotel, call a taxi or have the bar call one for you.

Start your day leisurely with breakfast, blue sky and sunshine at your hotel. Hang out and swim in the pool. Relax and store your energy for the fun day ahead.

Sagalis Winery

With your winery reservation ready (just in case), have your taxi pick you up before noon for Domaine Sagalis in Oia, a winery in Santorini I highly recommend. You’ll be seated in a shaded spot of their unassuming patio.

Get the full wine tasting with food pairing, or order lunch a-la-carte from their menu. No matter what you pick, it’s all incredible .

Enjoy a presentation by your server on the making of their wines and gaining an understanding of the Greek whites (Assyrtiko, Aidani and Athiri) and reds (Mandilaria and Mavrotragano).

Kickback and indulge while absorbing the breeze from the Aegean Sea. You’re not in a hurry so make this lunch as long as you like.

Before paying your bill, your server would be happy to call you a taxi for downtown Oia, a mere 10 minute ride away.

Arriving Oai, you’ll get a chance to walk off your lunch with a stroll through Oia’s pedestrian streets. Shop or explore the pathways leading to a great sunset viewing spot.

Oia will undoubtedly be crowded with tourists all trying to do the same thing. So, again, try to plan with a reservation at an ideal dining spot in advance. Recommendations are: Elinikon , Armeni Restaurant , Pelekanos , Black Rock , and Sunsets Bar .

Additionally, you could walk down the Oia Stairs to Ammoudi Bay for dinner at Dimitris Taverna , for example, or just viewing the sunset.

You have the rest of the night to enjoy Oia or back in Fira. When ready to head back to Fira, line up at the Oia bus stop. Have your 1.80 euro cash ready for the driver. On a busy night, don’t be surprised to ride standing in the aisle or having to wait for a second bus.

Your morning on day three is also lazy with plenty of time for breakfast and sunbathing at your hotel pool.

Late morning, walk to the Fira bus stop to ride the bus to the Akrotiri Archeological Site , a must do historical and cultural stop in Santorini. The ride is approximately 30 minutes.

The bus will drop you off by the water, just steps from the entry to the archeological site. Entry can be paid by credit card on site or, if you’re traveling during peak season, online in advance .

Spend at least an hour to wander the perimeter and interior of the site, marveling at the excavated rooms and restored pottery. The building, alone, is awesome, as well as cooled for a pleasant educational experience.

When you leave and the weather is nice, forgo catching the bus at the site and walk 15 minutes to Akrotiri Village, a tiny town with a couple of great outdoor dining spots, like Zafora , for a cool beer and chicken gyro lunch.

Just steps from the restaurant, catch the bus back to Fira to switch buses to Kamari for an afternoon wine tasting at Estate Argyros. Allow an hour from Akrotiri to the winery.

Estate Argyros

Having made your Taste the Real Santorini tour reservation in advance, ideally for no later than 5pm, you’ll be greeted in their beautiful tasting room ready to direct you to your small tour group.

Estate Argyros is a wine experience not to miss in Santorini. Situated on the hill overlooking the Aegean Sea, your informative and friendly guide (I hope you get Ellie) will take you around the grounds for an immersive lesson in Greek wine making, followed up by several tastings with fresh food pairing on their outdoor patio.

There is no better way to learn more about the local culture than through their wine making, don’t you think?

Enjoy the vast, vineyard scenery as the sun sets on day 3 in Santorini. The winery will be happy to call you a taxi so you’re on your way back to Fira before closing.

The remainder of the night is in Fira with shopping, late night dining, a gelato dessert, or dancing. It’s up to you on how you wish to fill your last night in Santorini.

If you’d like to do a wine tour experience on day 3 instead of self-guided, here are some tour great options you can partake in that start in the afternoon start, ideal for after the archeological site and lunch in Akrotiri Village, that include Estate Argyros.

Wine Tasting Alternatives for Santorini Day 3

Start planning your santorini travel budget.

Two days in Santorini is also doable, and certainly better than no time at all in Santorini.

For a Santorini 2 day itinerary, pick any of the two days above. Ultimately, do not miss an opportunity to do a wine tasting at either winery, a visit to the archeological site and, of course, sunset dining and drinks in either Fira or Oia. These are unforgettable must-do’s in Santorini .

Let Me Hear From You

I would love to hear if this solo Santorini in 3 days itinerary was helpful to you. Post me your thoughts or questions in the Comments section below. Thank you!

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2 Days in Santorini: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

How to spend 2 days in santorini: the best itinerary + where to stay.

You’re planning to spend 2 days in Santorini and you’re looking for the best things to do?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this 2-day itinerary in Santorini.

During your trip, you will discover all must-see attractions of the island such as the beautiful towns of Fira and Oia or the Caldera , during a fantastic boat trip.

In addition to the best places to visit and activities for each stage of your itinerary, I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, what are the best places to visit in Santorini in 2 days? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

Book your ferry crossing

Go to santorini for a week-end: flight prices, 2 days in santorini by car, one last tip for a perfect 2-day stay in santorini, a: visit to fira, b: hiking from fira to oia, c: walk to oia, option 1 – boat trip around santorini, option 2 – tour of the island in road trip mode, option 3 – other organised tours, best hotels in oia, best hotels in fira, other best places to stay in santorini island, more things to do and see in santorini in 2 days, where to go after your week-end in santorini, rent a boat in santorini, map of your 2-day itinerary in santorini, cyclades (greek islands), santorini in 2 days: my best tips.

Most people prefer to take the boat to get to Santorini.

There are regular ferries for crossing from Athens or the other islands of the Cyclades such as Amorgos , Naxos or Paros . Prices vary greatly depending on the size of the boat (and therefore its speed) and the time.

I recommend that you book your ferry trip to Santorini as soon as possible to choose the time that suits you best.

Especially since it is really more practical to do it online : avoid queuing at the port counter and you won’t encounter any translation problems (if you don’t speak Greek well).

By clicking on the green button below , you will have direct access to all prices and time-slots to start organising your week-end in Santorini:

The port of Santorini is about ten kilometres away from Fira , one of the island’s 2 iconic villages. To reach there, you can take the bus, taxi or car (see the section on car rental).

For other destinations on the island, there won’t necessarily be public transport , but most hotels offer shuttles for free or for an additional charge. 

As Santorini’s tourist activity is highly developed and the island receives thousands of visitors a day, it has a well-connected international airport.

And contrary to what you might think, it won’ t necessarily cost you more to fly than to take a boat ! Not to mention that a short stay can save you a lot of time. 

The prices of flights to Santorini vary greatly, it is a good idea to compare them as soon as possible. To do this, you can use our flight comparison tool , in partnership with Skyscanner.  It is the assurance of getting the best price.

Do not hesitate to enter the dates of your 2-day trip in Santorini and your departure airport to see the timings and prices.

Just like the port, from the airport you can easily and quickly get to Fira by bus. Taxis and car rentals are also available.

Ask your hotel if there is a shuttle service available for the other villages. Otherwise, you will have to use a taxi or car for those 48 h in Santorini.

For this 2-day itinerary in Santorini , you can rent a car upon arrival at the port or airport.

All the local and international rental rates are available on Rentalcars.com . With just one click, you can directly compare them and book your car.

Here too, it is best to get things done early , as there aren’t hundreds of cars available. There is no risk as the modification or cancellation is free. 

You can rent a car for your 2-day trip to Santorini by clicking here:

Even if the island is not necessarily very big, it can be a bit difficult to get around by public transport as not all the villages or beaches are connected to each other.

Not to mention that in the high season (July-August), the buses are crowded and will not stop to pick you up if there is no space. So there’s a good chance that you’ll find yourself waiting more than an hour (and I’m being optimistic here…) in the hot sun.

This is even more true for the line connecting the 2 iconic villages: Fira and Oia.

You can also rent scooters or quad bikes on the island.

For the 2-day tour in Santorini that I propose just below, you don’t necessarily need to rent a car for the first day.

For the second day , I have suggested several options for you depending on whether you rent a car or not.

One last thing: renting a car for these 2 days is not necessarily more expensive than making more trips by taxi. Especially considering that parking is free of charge. 

If you already know your travel dates (or as soon as you will have them!) , you should really book your accommodation.

As Santorini is one of the most touristic places in the world , the hotels offering the best value for money are often fully booked months in advance.

As a seasoned traveler, I can assure you that it’s always by planning as far in advance as possible that I’ve found the best hotels or apartments deals.

You agree that it would be a shame to somewhat ruin your stay in Santorini by ending up in a not-so-great hotel that costed you a fortune, right? 😅

So your best bet is to take 5 minutes now to have a look at  traveler’s favorite hotels in Santorini.

And if you like one of the hotels you find, book it!

It’s fast, it’s easy and most accommodation offer free cancellation. That’s the best way to protect yourself from the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the best hotels deals in Santorini, simply click on the green button below:

After securing your dream stay, it’s time to continue reading this guide!

Visit Santorini in 2 days: the best route

Now that you know how to come to the island and get around during this week-end, I propose you to take a look at my itinerary to spend 2 days in Santorini.

I have prepared this itinerary for you to spend 2 full days in Santorini.

If you still have questions about organising your holiday after reading it, please feel free to ask me your questions in the comments section at the very end of the article.

So, what are the best things to do in Santorini in 2 days?

Day 1 of this itinerary in Santorini – The iconic villages

In the list of must-see places during your 2-day trip to Santorini , I recommend you start by visiting Fira.

This iconic village of Santorini located at the edge of the caldera offers a real picture -postcard landscape and an excellent start to your dream week-end!

Stroll through the cobbled streets lined with white houses, chic boutiques and luxury hotels with an infinity pool! And open your eyes wide to enjoy the exceptional view.

It is impossible to not surrender to the charm of the most famous island of the Cyclades!

From the top of the village, you can also take the stairs or the cable car that goes down to the old port of Santorini (still used to disembark passengers from cruises).

Go back and forth (around 12 Euros) to admire the village from another angle.

If you are interested in the history and the various archaeological remains found on the island, I also suggest you visit:

• The prehistoric Thera museum where you can find the remains discovered on the site of Akrotiri
• The archaeological museum with many elements from Akrotiri as well as from Ancient Thera.

Once you have finished going through the narrow streets of Fira , I suggest you continue your 2-day stay in Santorini with a short hike.

At the end of the village, continue to follow the path that goes along the top of the cliff and first reaches Firostefani (10-minutes walk) and then Imerovigli (another 20 minutes).

I am giving you a rough idea about the walking time as it is without considering the multiple photo stops! ☺️

Starting from the village of Imerovigli , the mythical trail of Santorini begins. It is 9 km long and takes you to the village of Oia , a 2-hour walk away.

The views are spectacular all along the walk, especially before you arrive at Oia. Magnificent photos guaranteed!

The trail is not really difficult but you still have to be wearing proper shoes (no flip-flops) and bring water and a hat because it’s quite sunny.

If you don’ t want to go for the whole walk, I recommend you do the small portion to Imerovigli . It would be a real shame to miss the landscape!

In this case, to reach Oia from Fira , you can then take the bus or taxi , if you have not rented a car.

Once you arrive in Oia , you can make the most of your week-end in Santorini to visit the island’s 2nd best-known village.

Have you ever seen pictures of Santorini taken at the time of sunset ? Well, that’s Oia!

In the late afternoon, visitors flock to the village to find the best spot to watch the show.

For me the ideal place is located at the ruins of the ancient Byzantine castle (see on the map at the very end of the article) but it is better to arrive at least 1 hour before to get a good seat.

If your budget is a little bigger or want a more romantic and chic atmosphere, you can also book a table in one of the bars with a view. But you will have to commit to a minimum per person (which is not very difficult considering the price of the cocktails!).

Spend the night at one of Santorini’s hotels. Below you will find my selection of the best accommodations on the island.

Day 2 of your week-end in Santorini: the best things to do and see

For the second day of this 2-day Santorini trip, I suggest several options . Choose according to your interests and/or your means of transport.

It is certainly the most famous activity to do when spending 2 days in Santorini: a boat trip.

The most popular is the one that takes you to discover the volcanic islands and hot springs.

There is a stop to climb to the top of the volcano of Nea Kamini that is still active. Then, to recover from the stress, you can splash about in the hot springs of Palea Kameni.

On the way back, there is a last stop at the island located opposite Santorini: Thirassia. 

The day trip is really well organised and includes pick-up from your hotel , audio commentary, boat ride and all the stops as well as swimming.

For this day, I highly recommend that you book in advance to make sure you have a seat. You can directly click the following green button:

As I told you, these mini-cruises are very popular. If you wish, there is a more luxurious option that caters to a smaller group of people.

Rides take place aboard a catamaran and include bathing stops with snorkelling equipment being provided.

Here too, you will be picked up directly in front of your hotel and the day also includes a barbecue and all-you-can-drink drinks.

Another advantage of this sea outing: departure is later to enjoy the sunset from the sea. 

Finally, if you really want to spend some quiet time, I recommend you opt for the luxury catamaran ride.

It’s exactly the same as the ride I’ve just mentioned, but just a more upscale version with a beautiful boat that can accommodate only a maximum of about twenty people and serves a more elaborate meal.

This boat trip is so good that it is “GetYourGuide Originals” certified, which means that it is satisfied or reimbursed!

Do not wait any longer and book this super activity that you absolutely must do when you have 2 days to spend in Santorini:

Do read my article dedicated to boat rides around the island to find the boat ride of your dreams: The 7 best boat trips in Santorini.

For this other option of your 2-day itinerary in Santorini, it is imperative to have a vehicle because I suggest you go around the island.

Here are all the things to do on the day’s programme:

• Visit the small typical villages of Pyrgos, Megalochori and Emporio.
• Discover one of the island’s 2 archaeological sites: Akrotiri or Ancient Thera.
• Spend some time at the beach. The Red Beach and its ochre cliffs or the beaches of Kamari and Perissa , renowned for their sand of volcanic origin, are the best known.

In case you don’ t want to rent a car or a scooter and you’re not interested in a boat ride, you can also opt for a 1-day organised tour to visit Santorini.

I have selected 3 that may interest you:

1) A bus trip with a guided tour in English.

The trip is very comprehensive and covers Akrotiri, Red Beach and the village of Emporio . You can also swim at Perissa and take part in a wine tasting.

It covers many of the places I recommend in option 2, for the trip in Santorini by car. It is therefore an excellent choice for your 2-days stay in Santorini.

Book this trip for your week-end in Santorini directly with the button below: :

2) A private 6-hour tour.

Here you can choose the places you want to see. The itinerary is flexible and customisable . Your guide will adapt as per your preferences.

3) An oenological visit

Santorini has many vineyards producing one of Greece ‘s most famous wines. 

This visit of about 5 hours allows to discover some of them and specially to participate in several tasting sessions. You will have the chance to taste a dozen wines including Vin santo and Nykteri , the traditional wines of the island.

This visit is semi-private with a maximum of 8 persons and includes hotel pick-up, a specialised wine guide and tasting sessions.

Reserve using the following button:

If these tours do not suit you, you can find all the best tours and activities to do on the island right here: All tours and activities in Santorini.

Where to stay in Santorini?

I have to admit that to sleep in Oia or Fira , which are located on the caldera’s edge, you have to plan a fairly high budget. The hotels are certainly splendid and the prices are such owing to their exceptional location!

If you have a smaller budget, I advise you to choose an accommodation located a little further away from the 2 main villages.

In any case, it is best you do all your bookings as early as possible!

To help you, I have prepared a selection of the best hotels according to location and for all budgets.

• Aethrio Hotel:  Located in Oia, only a few steps away from the main square. You can rent double rooms, studio flats or apartments with balcony for most of them. The price starts from 160€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the swimming pool, the large rooms, the rooftop to admire the sunset.  It’s one of the cheapest places in Oia, and it offers a great value for money!
• Caldera Premium Villas:  Located in the centre of Oia. You will love the troglodyte suites with a breathtaking view of the sea and the caldera, starting from 290€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the design of the rooms, and the location.
• Theodora Suites Apartment:  Located in the heart of the city. Studio flats with small kitchen, fridge, private terrace and hot tub, starting from 350€, breakfast included. What I loved: the hot tubs, the breathtaking view, the kind staff.
• Andronis Boutique Hotel:  5-star hotel located in Oia. You’ll enjoy large suites with a view of the caldera, private balcony and private hot tub or pool, starting from 800€ with breakfast included. Strong points: the idyllic scenery and the calm.  It’s my recommendation for a one-week romantic stay in Greece!
• Katikies Hotel – The Leading Hotels of the World:  This luxurious hotel offers rooms and suites with a great view, bathtub and spa. The price starts from 1000€ with breakfast included. What I loved: the pools, the spas, the splendid views and the food!  It’s my recommendation for a luxury stay in Santorini!

• Galatia Villas:  Located 10 minutes away from Fira’s city centre. The double rooms are quite basic but nice, and the price starts from only 80€ per night. Strong points: the hot tub on the roof, the kind staff, the great value for money for Santorini.
• Lilium Santorini Villa:  Located on the edge of the caldera. These elegant and modern double rooms with sea view are available starting from 315€, breakfast included. What I loved: the pool, the exceptionnal location, the warm and welcoming staff.
• Cosmopolitan Suites – Small Luxury Hotels of the World:   Located in the heart of Fira. You will enjoy lovely rooms with private balcony, decorated in the purest Cycladian style, starting from 550€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the infinity pool over the cliff, and the luxury hotel services.  This is the perfect place to stay with your lover in Santorini!
• Aria Suites:   Located in Fira, this high standard hotel offers only 6 suites and luxury villas, fully equipped (you even get a laptop), starting from 700€ per night. What I loved: the magnificent place, the pool and the staff availability.  This is a great choice for a luxurious and romantic stay in Fira!

• Memories Beach Hotel:   Located just accross Monolithos beach. These comfortable modern rooms starts from 65€ per night, with breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the calm and the adorable staff.
• Rose Suites:  Located in Vourvoulos, only 4 kilometers away from Fira. Those studio flats and apartments are well equiped and decorated, with a small kitchen and a private terrace. The prices are starting from 75€ per night. What I loved: the pool, the calm, the decoration. The fridge is also full with everything you need for breakfast. This is the best choice in Santorini for its exceptional value for money!
• Hippocampus Hotel:  Located in Kamari, only 50 meters away from the beach. The rooms, with a view on the swimming pool or the garden, are starting from 85€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the ideal location close to the beach, and the really kind staff.
• Meltemi Village Hotel:   Located in Perissa, only 5 minutes away from the Black beach. The rooms and suites with hot tubs are starting from 100€ per night, with the breakfast included. What I loved: the pools, the spa, and the great breakfast.  A great choice for a stay on Santorini’s shore!

I gave you a lot of suggestions and options for a 2-days visit to Santorini but you can also make your own programme.

You will find even more things to do during your week-end in Santorini in my other article: The 17 best things to do in Santorini .

Do you want to continue your trip to Greece after these 2 days in Santorini?

Why not choose another island of the Cyclades?

To help you decide which one best fits your interests, please read my article: The best things to do in the Cyclades

I have also written other detailed articles about the main islands:

• Amorgos: The 8 best places to see
• Andros: The 7 must-see attractions and activities
• Naxos: Top 10 things to do
• Paros: The 10 best places to visit
• Tinos: The 10 best things to do

And to create a little tour in Greece for a week or more , I recommend you take inspiration from my different itineraries:

• Itinerary: 1 week in Greek islands – How to visit the Cyclades in 6, 7 or 8 days
• Itinerary: 10 days in Greek islands – The definitive guide to visit the Cyclades in 10 days!
• Itinerary: Greek Island Hopping routes – The best 2 weeks itinerary to visit the Cyclades

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your stay in Santorini, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental!

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Santorini? 😊

To help you visualise your itineraries during your 2 days in Santorini, I have created a map for you listing the places to visit each day . You can display the map legend by clicking the button on the top left with a small arrow.

You will then be able to view the itineraries for each day.

Do you need help in organising your 2-day itinerary in Santorini? Feel free to ask me any questions you may have in the comments section.

Greece travel guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Greece guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Greece guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

You’re traveling to Greece ? These articles will help you !

Discover all my articles about Greece : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Greece are listed there.

• The 20 Best Things to do in Greece – The Ultimate Bucket list!
• The 15 Best Things to do in Peloponnese – All the must-see attractions
• Itinerary: 4-5 days in Greece – The perfect itinerary for a short stay in Greece
• Itinerary: 1 week in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Santorini!
• Itinerary: 6, 7 or 8 days in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Athens + Peloponnese in a week
• Itinerary: 10 days in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Central Greece in 9-10 days
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Central Greece + Cyclades (Santorini)
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Central Greece + even more Cyclades islands!
• Itinerary: 1 month in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Greece in a month!
• Road trip in Greece – The best itineraries for 5, 7, 10, 15, 21 and 30 days.
• Athens: The 20 Best Things to do and see
• Thessaloniki: The 12 best places to visit
• The 15 Best Cyclades Islands to visit – With all the must-see attractions
• Where to stay in Santorini? Find the perfect hotel for an EPIC stay in Santorini!
• Rhodes: Top 12 best places to visit

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The Ultimate 4-Day Santorini Itinerary

From boat trips and wine tours, to exploring the natural volcanic landscapes, this 4-day Santorini itinerary packs in the highlights.

If you’re planning your first trip to Santorini, no doubt you have lots of questions. One of the most important being… how long should you spend on the island. To be honest, I get asked this a lot, which prompted me to write this post.

While it’ll depend on what kind of traveller you are, personally, I’d recommend spending a minimum of 4 days in Santorini. This will give you enough time to explore the old port area, jump on a couple of full-day activities and excursions, and check out some of the best restaurants on the island. 

In this 4-day Santorini itinerary, I’ll share a little bit of everything. If you’re an active, adventurous sort, there’s something for you. If you love relaxation and luxury, there’s plenty for you too!

From catamaran cruises and wine tasting, to lazy beach days, beautiful views and architecture, this long weekend in Santorini makes for the perfect summer holiday.

Ready to plan your trip? Let’s dive in and find out how to experience Santorini in 4 days!

How To Spend 4 Days In Santorini

In this 4-day Santorini itinerary, I’m going to share my favourite destinations to visit and a few travel tips so you can make the most of your Greek island adventure. You’ll need to tailor the itinerary according to where you stay and the length of your trip.

As a quick aside, if you’re still looking for accommodation, I’ve rounded up a few of my favourite luxury hotels in Santorini for you to choose from. Ready to mix and match this long weekend in Santorini itinerary to suit your needs and timeframe?

For your first day in Santorini, I’d recommend a self-guided walking tour of beautiful Fira , the capital of Santorini. 

Home to the historic Old Port, some of the best restaurants on the island, and amazing cultural sights like the Prehistoric Museum of Thera and the famous blue-domed church, The Three Bells of Thera , this is an amazing place to explore.

One of the best ways to see Fira and enhance your Santorini experience is by jumping on the town’s cable car . Not only does this connect the historic harbour area with the town, but it also offers spectacular views over the water. 

No trip to Greece would be complete without an amazing food experience or two. This food tour in Fira is ideal for foodies who want an authentic travel experience. You’ll get the chance to eat at local places that are off-the-beaten path and learn more about the island’s amazing food history and culture.

I always recommend doing a tour like this on your first day, as often the local tour guide will be able to give you some top tips for where to eat on the rest of your trip.

It’s day 2 of your 4 day Santorini itinerary, and it’s time to hop on the water and head off on a beautiful boat trip . 

This cruise is one of my top picks as it takes you around the volcanic island of Nea Kameni . This spectacular island is full of black sand beaches and geothermal hot springs. It’s also a National Geological Park, so if you’re interested in natural sciences, geography, or amazing rocks, you are going to be in your element (pardon the pun!) If you’re feeling energetic, I’d recommend hiking up one of the volcanic trails. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views back across to the main island.

So, you’ll cruise on the open water, work on your tan, and maybe cool off in the crystal clear waters, before enjoying a soak in some natural hot springs. After spending the first day of your Santorini adventure exploring Fira by foot, trust me, it’s going to feel amazing to rest your tired muscles in those hot springs! 

As this is a full-day trip, you’ll also get the chance to explore beautiful towns like Thirassia and Oia. The town of Oia is famed for its blue-domed churches and vibrant sunsets. It’s the postcard view of Santorini and an absolute must-visit destination.

I think this is such a wonderful way to spend your second day in Santorini. You’ll get to experience a great mix of relaxation, sailing, cultural sites and Instagram-worthy views. What’s not to love about that?

Ready for a tipple or two? I couldn’t write a travel guide about Santorini without including a wine tour! The vines and winemaking culture in Santorini is one of the oldest in the entire world, so by now, they definitely know what they’re doing!

I’d recommend allowing around half a day to visit a local vineyard or two for a wine-tasting experience. There are some great guided tours such as this one which will transport you to a selection of Santorini’s wineries. Let’s face it, no one wants to miss out on the vino by being the designated driver, so this is a great way to do things!

Plus, booking a tour means that all of the wine tastings are organised for you. A lot of the vineyards require advance bookings for tastings, so if you’re on a group tour, it’ll all be set up in advance. The only decision you have to make is… red or white?! Tricky, eh?

The wine culture is so prevalent in Santorini that there’s even a museum dedicated to wine. On this tour , not only do you get three vineyard visits and tastings but you’ll also get to visit the Kotsoyannoploulos Wine Museum . it covers over 3,500 years of winemaking heritage on the Greek island and is a must-visit for any wine lover.

You’ve already packed a lot into your time on the island, so for your final day, it’s time to chill out and relax. You’ve definitely earned it!

You might think that all the Greek islands offer beautiful white sand and turquoise sea. Well, some of the most intriguing spots in Santorini are the island’s unique black sand beaches. The most popular include Columbo Beach, Pernissa Beach and Kamari Beach. They get their unique colouring from the volcanic soil and make for a wondrous sight.

Bring your towel, go for a dip in the warm waters, and make sure to take tons of photos of this natural wonderland. It’s something that you won’t find on many other islands in Greece , so make the most of it.

For something even more unique, you could visit Santorini’s red sand beach! Imaginatively named Red Beach in English (!) or Kokkini Paralia in Greek, the red colouring seeps into the sand from the rocks and red hills all around. Honestly, you won’t believe your eyes!

After some beach time, it’s time to gear up for a special last night on the island. As well as having one of the best black sand beaches in Santorini, Kamari is also home to the island’s open-air cinema . This is open during the spring and summer months.

You’ll feel like you’ve turned back time as you enter this place! With a beautiful and very well-stocked bar area at the back and tiered outdoor seating leading down to the giant screen, it’s a wonderful place to enjoy a movie accompanied by a glass of Santorini vino. It almost feels like you’re watching a film in a Greek amphitheatre!

All of the films are in English with Greek subtitles, so you don’t have to worry about the language barrier. They normally announce their program of films in the spring, so if you’re keen to visit, keep checking the website. This is such a special and memorable way to round off your time in Santorini.

Where to stay in Santorini

There are plenty of amazing hotels on this island. If you’re struggling to choose, here are a few of my favourite hotels in Santorini .

Astra Suites

Astra Suites offers a selection of standard and luxury suites and villas, for guests to choose from – although the so-called standard suites are anything but ordinary!

The stylish and romantic villas have private swimming pools, outdoor Jacuzzis, fully equipped gyms and a personal butler service to cater to your every wish. One of the highlights? Spending a dreamy evening stargazing 300m above the Aegean Sea from the hotel’s cliffside infinity pool!

Katikies Hotel Santorini

One of the best hotels Santorini has to offer, Katikies 5-star hotel has not one, not two, but three incredible infinity pools. The hotel’s restaurant overlooks the Aegean Sea, allowing you to enjoy gourmet fine dining and traditional Santorini wine under the stars.

Canaves Oia Hotel and Suites

Carved into the cliffside on the north-western tip of Santorini, Canaves Oia offers a selection of luxury hotel rooms, suites, and villas with breath-taking views of the Aegean Sea. There’s a top spa on site too, just to add to your relaxing holiday!

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading my 4-day Santorini itinerary. I think it offers a varied mix of activities, with plenty of relaxation thrown in too.

If you’re still deciding where to stay, don’t miss my guide to the best hotels in Santorini. From epic infinity pools to private suites, there are so many stunning spots to choose from! If you’re looking for a quieter or more authentic island, I’d recommend a quick read of my top alternatives to Santorini .

If you’re looking for more inspiration for your time in Greece don’t miss my  Greece travel blogs , which include these posts:

• 9 Best Greek Islands For Couples To Visit
• The Ultimate 7-Day Greece Itinerary: Athens, Greek Island Hopping & More
• What To Wear In Greece For Women And Men: Greece Packing List
• The Best Honeymoon Hotels In Mykonos
• The Best Honeymoon Hotels in Santorini
• How To Spend The Ultimate Weekend In Athens
• 15 Amazing Things To Do In Tinos, Greece
• 9 Best Luxury And Boutique Hotels In Crete, Greece

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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A Weekend in Santorini

Santorini (pop. 15,000) is even more beautiful than you’ve imagined, with strange red rock formations rising dramatically out of the sea, whitewashed blue-domed villages precariously perched on the island’s edge, the depressed caldera, a smattering of colorful beaches, those glowing sunsets, and sprawling archaeological sites. If you’re on a honeymoon or romantic getaway—or just exploring solo—here’s how to spend a weekend in Santorini:

There are a few moments in life worth splurging on, and getting a room in Oia or Imerovigli with a view of the caldera is one of them. An entire day can (should) be spent lounging poolside and marveling at the view, but when you feel the need to stretch your legs:

Go for a walk in Oia. Surrounded by water on the northwestern tip of Santorini, Oia lives up to the hype. This might be one of the most beautiful villages in the world. The whitewashed houses carved into the red caldera, the sparkling blue hotel pools, and the tiny alleyways snaking through the village make for a truly unique place. If you need to escape the sun for a while, stop in the Kyrkos Art Gallery or the Musical Instrument Museum , where the friendly owner speaks English.

Head out on one of the most beautiful walks around Fira, the 600-step descent to the small port of Fira Skala . As you walk down the steps, the sea is laid out before you, with little fishing boats bobbing in the water; to your back is the caldera. There are signs pointing the way. Getting back up is more challenging. For those who would rather skip the workout, hop on the Santorini Cable Car, which scales the side of the island every 20 minutes. There are also donkeys that you can ride up, but the donkeys are suffering from carting a never-ending cycle of tourists, so give the donkeys a break and take the cable car.

Have dinner in Fira at the eccentric Koukoumavlos, one of the longest-lasting restaurants on Santorini and famous for its wildly creative dishes prepared by self-taught chef Nikos Pouliasis. This is one of the rare restaurants where the celebrity chef is actually in the kitchen. After identifying about 70 ingredients, we stopped counting. Dishes that seemed like they would never work—turkey with kumquats and a peanut butter chocolate lollipop, for instance—are deliciously executed. Come with an open mind and book the €74 tasting menu—an excellent value. Reservations are required.

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An early morning can be spent quietly walking around Oia , before driving to the island’s center to visit archaeological ruins, visit some of Santorini’s finest wineries, and catch the sunset from a Venetian castle.

Wake up early in the morning to stroll through Oia. This is the best time to see Santorini’s jewel: before the crowds have woken up, when the streets are mostly empty and bathed in a soft pink light. After, return to your hotel for breakfast.

Head to Ancient Akrotiri for a walk through Santorini’s answer to Pompeii. At once destroyed and preserved by a massive volcanic eruption in 1450 BC, Akrotiri is a living reminder of the stunning contribution of the ancient Minoan civilization. The site was only uncovered in 1860, when the volcanic ash was dug out to be used for construction in the Suez Canal. Take your time walking through the streets of the ancient city. There are also guided tours available. You’ll see the crumbled walls of homes and shops, but also some objects— bed frames, pots, tiled floors, windows—that demonstrate just how alive this place was before the volcano erupted.

Stop for lunch at Metaxi Mas in Exo Gonia. Located inside an old house (you can either sit on the terrace, with a view of Anafi island, or inside the vaulted rooms), Metaxi Mas is a delicious mix of Cretan and Santorini dishes. Dakos (Greek bruschetta), boiled wild greens, and raki are served alongside fava puree and white eggplants. Portions are copious, especially the salads, and though the mains tend toward the meat, there are plenty of vegetarian options.

Fortified, visit at least two of the area’s wineries, starting with Artemis Karamolegos. This is the place to try the sweet, lipsmackingly good vinsanto wine, a dessert variety native to Santorini. At Karamolegos, you can try a vinsanto that has been aged for 60 months! Make sure to also sample assyrtiko, a white Greek wine grape indigenous to Santorini.

If you’re looking to find a side of Santorini that hasn’t been completely dominated by tourism, drive up to nearby Pyrgos for an evening stroll. The former capital of Santorini, Pyrgos is probably the best preserved medieval settlement on the island. Though it’s becoming more of a tourist destination, Pyrgos is still under the radar and doesn’t draw nearly the same crowds as Fira and Oia . It’s a joy to walk through the village alleyways, stop in a platea (village square) for a cup of coffee and some people watching, and to see actual Santorini locals go about their business. Pyrgos is perched on a hill, and the view is just as spectacular as Oia. (Be sure to catch the sunset from the top of the village at Pyrgos Kastelli !)

Thanks in part to efforts by locals to revamp the cultural and culinary offerings in their town, a number of excellent restaurants have opened up here, including the award-winning Selene, where you should stop for dinner . There are two sections: a “meze and wine” bistro downstairs and a fine dining section upstairs, both located in a charming old house. Unless you’re celebrating something very special, the bistro—which has the same views, and an equally impressive menu—is a good (and more affordable) choice. Dishes in the fine dining restaurant include “tomato in a can” (about 5 different tastes of Santorini tomatoes), roasted pigeon, and fava foam on a “seabed.” At the wine bar, try the grilled octopus with fava and smoked tuna.

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14 Best Things to Do in Santorini

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

If you've ever dreamed of the perfect Greek Island vacation, you've probably already lost your heart to Santorini. Its gleaming white Cycladic houses and windmills frost the tops of nearly 1,000-foot, multi-colored cliffs like icing on a wedding cake. Both rugged and romantic, it's a fount of legends and a ravishingly beautiful destination. 

After you've admired its beauty, favorite things to do include cruising, seeing ancient sites, and kicking back to enjoy the beaches, Greek cuisine, and a world-class sunset.

Cruise the Caldera

The island of Santorini stretches out like arms, its cliffs wrapped around a giant, nearly circular bay. This is the caldera —the legacy of the collapse of the historic volcano that tore away a huge chunk of the island in about 1600 BC, 3600 years ago. It is called the Minoan eruption because the impact of it probably wiped out the Minoan civilization on Crete. And scientists think it was the largest volcanic eruption of its type for the last 10,000 years.

The best way to see the cliffs—which are strikingly gorgeous—is from within this caldera, which has been flooded for thousands of years. Nothing beats arriving by ferry to the ports, backed by the towering natural walls of stone.

But don't worry if you haven't the time for a seven to 12-hour ferry trip from Piraeus and have to fly from Athens to Thira (the official Greek name for Santorini) instead. There are dozens of day and evening cruises in the caldera that you can book from local travel companies on the island; better yet, book and pay before you even arrive.

Options range from short sightseeing cruises and trips to islands in the caldera to day cruises with buffet lunches and romantic sunset dinner cruises. The price will depend on whether you choose a motor launch, a sailboat, a catamaran or a kayak cruise but, in general, trips run between $50 and $200. Check the tour company Viator to book and pay for your cruise before you arrive. Santorini Cruises have daily sunset cruises on their exact replica of a 19th-century Brigantine. And Sunset Oia offers day and sunset catamaran cruises.

Your hotel will probably be able to recommend cruise companies and local captains as well. But if you are planning to visit during the busy summer and early autumn months when Santorini is packed with visitors, it's better to book your cruise before you arrive. 

Search for the Lost City of Atlantis in Akrotiri

Nobody can really prove that the civilization that existed on Thira (ancient Santorini), contemporary with the Minoans on Crete , was the lost city of Atlantis . For one thing, none of the Greek writers ever wrote about Atlantis except  Plato , and his writings suggest a date for its destruction of 9,000 years ago—about 6,000 years before the giant eruption that wiped away half the island.

In 1967, archeologists began excavating a site on the southwestern tip of the island. Now considered one of the most important archaeological sites in the Aegean, the 50-acre site has evidence of occupation by a sophisticated civilization between 4,000 BC (Late Neolithic) and 3,000 BC (Early Bronze Age). The town had large multi-story houses, paved streets, water supplies, and sewage systems, and, within the houses, evidence of trade with Minoan Crete, mainland Greece, Syria, and Egypt.

You can visit the site and imagine what life must have been like before earthquakes caused the people of Akrotiri to flee and a volcanic explosion buried their city. It's undercover and is open to the public between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. daily during the summer and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday during the winter. Standard admission is 12€. Open days and the dates of the summer and winter seasons vary from year to year,  so check their website. 

Swim at a Rainbow of Beaches

Santorini's beaches line up along its east and south coasts. Most have dramatic, black volcanic sand but a few, like Kokkini Ammos Cove, near the excavations at Akrotiri, have brilliant scarlet sands too. Kokkini Ammos, usually called Red Beach, for obvious reasons, is narrow and very crowded but get into the water, off the beach and there are pockets of hot springs.

Perivolos, a long, wide black sand beach, has bars, music, and a young crowd, while Perissa and Exo Gialos, with similar black sand beaches, are much quieter. Consider wearing bathing shoes at Perissa—it has a slippery reef to cross before you reach good swimming waters.

Visitors who like nicely swept, well-kept beaches with umbrellas, chaises lounges, bars, changing facilities, and restrooms should head for Kamari. And for sheer strangeness, the wind-shaped, volcanic tufa formations at Vlychada beach are a must visit see.

Fancy the idea of swimming in volcanic waters? Take a boat excursion from Oia or Fira to one of the two volcanic islands to sample very hot springs. Agios Nikolaos, an inlet on Nea Kameni (Greek for "new hot island") has hot, yellow, sulfurous waters that are supposed to be good for your health. Palea Kameni ("old hot island") has a hot spring that turns the water from turquoise blue to deep red. 

See the Crater of an Active Volcano

The volcanic activity on and around Santorini is not something from the ancient past. The island is a dormant, but still active, volcano. Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni, the two islands in the Caldera, are actually lava flows from occasional eruptions. In the past 2,000 years, it has erupted at least nine times—three times in the 20th century alone. The last major eruption, on Nea Kameni , occurred in 1950.

Tour boats visit the uninhabited Nea Kameni from the old port of Fira regularly. Visitors on these day excursions hike inland and uphill for about 20 to 30 minutes, through a desolate landscape dotted with strange formations. The path to the top takes you all around the crater. It smokes and reeks of sulfur. And, in case you doubt that this is still an active landscape, most guides dig a shallow hole so you can feel the island's heat. Tours to the volcanic island take about two hours.

Visit the World's Oldest Wineries

The Greeks brought wine to the rest of the Mediterranean, and Santorini can boast some of the oldest—if not the oldest—vineyards in the world. Archaeologists have found evidence of winemaking going back at least 3700 years. After the massive volcanic eruption of 1613 BC, Phoenicians colonized the island and brought their own plants. Only the woody grape vines survived the barren soil and harsh conditions.

Today, one of their vineyards, planted in 1200 BC, is still producing wine grapes and has been in continuous cultivation for 3,200 years. Most vineyards still prune their vines close to the ground, using an ancient method unique to the island. The vines are woven into baskets with the fruit protected from wind and sand within them.

Today, there are 10 wineries you can visit as well as a wine museum and a wine cooperative where you can taste a variety of local wines. The more unusual wineries to visit include:

•   Art Space is an art gallery and museum within the pumice caves of an old winery. The owner has created a small winery in one of the original, underground caves, where traditional dry white wines and vinsanto , the local sweet dessert wine are made.
• Boutari Winery near the traditional village of Megalochori is interesting. This was the first Santorini winery to open its doors to the public. Its west facing location means that you can enjoy a wine tasting while watching the famous Santorini sunset.
• Gaia Wines sits on the beach between Kamari Beach and Monolithos, a family-friendly beach.

Try a Taste of Santorini

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Like most Greek islands, Santorini has several local specialties that are worth tasting when you visit.

Capers are gathered wild from the steep walls of the Caldera and the stone walls between vineyards. Before being pickled in brine—as most capers are—they are sun-dried to a pale blond color. These sun-dried and rehydrated capers, along with sun-dried tomatoes give the typical Greek salad a unique, Santorini spin. They also turn up in most island soups, stews, and sauces.

Fava is another island specialty. The yellow dried peas grown on the island are pureed so that they resemble smooth hummus, then served as a dip with lemon juice, olive oil, and chopped onions. 

Tomatokeftedes , or ntomatokefthedes , as they are sometimes spelled, are the island's poor man's "meatballs." Thick-skinned, fleshy tomatoes are grated or finely chopped, mixed with herbs, spices, and flour, rolled into small balls and deep fried.

Vinsanto is a very sweet dessert wine made from raisins dried on the vine.

Marvel at the Sunset

In Fira, people gather on the short promenade along the cliffs near the Cathedral at sunset. You might need a reservation, but it's a treat to relax with a drink or bite to eat at one of the many cliff-clinging bars and restaurants.

It may get crowded but the town at the northern tip of the crescent of Santorini is  Oia  which is the best sunset viewing location on the island. 

Sunset lovers should walk to the lighthouse at the extreme southwest part of the island of Santorini at sunset.

Peruse the Art Galleries

Mnemossyne Gallery in Oia is a favorite with visitors. It's located in a lovely cave house just a few steps before the Castle and the well-known sunset spot. There are art photographs of local scenery, hand-made jewelry, sculptures, and pottery—all by excellent artists.

Art of the Loom Gallery in Caldera is another favorite. The Cycladic-style building housing the gallery was built in 1866 and was originally used as a winery. serving the needs of the local society for wine production. You'll find works by many well-known Greek artists including oil paintings, jewelry, ceramics, and art glass by the co-owner of the gallery. They have galleries in three scenic locations.

In Kamari, visit the Eduart Gjopalaj Workshop on the seaside boulevard and in Fira town next to the Catholic church. The artist is known for his carving and sculpture in wood. He also does art glass. Visitors will enjoy interacting with the artist and learning about his self-taught craft.

Hike the Rim of the Caldera

TripSavvy / Monica Farber

The Fira to Oia hiking trail will take you along the rim of the caldera where you will marvel at the breathtaking views. You can hike it either way, but this way is reportedly less steep. It's a 12-kilometer hike one way (take the bus back) taking about 2.5 hours. Day hikers or boots are recommended for the more rugged parts of the trail The views of the volcanic landscape are impressive. You can do it on your own, but there are tours that take this route.

Shop the Villages

TripSavvy / Ivey Redding

Shopping for folk art and souvenirs is a great part of exploring the villages of Santorini . Oia is a place you'll find some very high-end shopping for jewelry and casual resort fashions at high prices. There are some tempting ceramics and artwork, too.

Fira is where locals shop for themselves and the prices are reasonable. You'll also find boutiques and souvenir shops selling souvenirs, natural sponges, and handicrafts on the narrow intriguing streets in the northern part of the town.

Sail at Sunset

Take a sunset Catamaran cruise with Spiridakos Sailing Cruises. Sailings can be private or semi-private. Enjoy the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea at sunset while being served by the onboard crew. A five-hour sunset cruise sails from the southern port of Vlychada. Pick-up from your hotel is available; reservations are necessary.

Fish with the fishermen in the volcanic caldera of Santorini and around the islands. Instruction, licenses, rods and reels, and bait are provided for the day.

Keep your catch and time permitting, they'll even cook it onboard for you. If the boat is due to return to port, you can take the fish to a local tavern/restaurant by the port and they will cook your fish for you at a reasonable cost.

You can even visit the hot springs and go snorkeling while motoring around the area. Snacks and beverages are available and there is a restroom onboard.

Ride a Donkey Up the Steep Streets

The traditional donkey ride on Santorini is something that has been done for 100 years. Ride a donkey or mule from the port at Fira, the Santorini Donkey Terminal, Ammoudi Oia. You can also take a donkey ride on the Fira to Oia hiking route.

Ride for as little as 20 euros one-way from the port.

Take a Boat to Thirassia Island

Planet Observer/Getty Images

Thirassia is on the western side of the caldera and before the volcanic eruption, it was actually connected to Santorini. It's a small village with some good cafes and tavernas. Boats leave several times a day from Ammoudi and the Old Fira port and run until about 5 p.m. The cost is only a euro for each way.

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Santorini: The best ideas for a great long weekend trip

Santorini: the best ideas for a great long weekend trip! It is time for the third article from the Santorini series, last one. If you missed the previous two, you can find them here, one click away: Santorini: Seven Amazing Reasons You Can’t Miss It and Santorini: Six Things You Need To Know Before Traveling .

It takes a lifetime for someone to discover Greece, but it only takes an instant to fall in love with her.

I am sure that by now you know what is your top reason to visit Santorini and what you need to know before your first travel. So let’s get a bit more specific now and see what can be done in Santorini during a great long weekend trip! Let’s say… 10 recommendations? Check below!

OUR LONG WEEKEND TRIP TO SANTORINI

Is a long weekend enough for visiting Santorini? Of course, when one is traveling, time is never enough! On the other hand, if you can visit Santorini for four days, you would enjoy it for sure! I love ‘compressed travels!

They give me a chance to experience a new place, to taste it, and leave the feeling of not enough, often wanting me to return one more day.

Our travel to Santorini, indeed, was a long weekend trip. We were lucky to get great plane tickets which allowed us to enjoy this Greek island for nearly four full days. You can explore  WizzAir  and  Ryanair  flight options in Europe. I was so happy to know that WizzAir started to fly from my city, Gdansk to Santorini on my birthday! The best gift!

Our flight to Santorini departed from Gdansk at 6 am. We landed in Greece at 10 am, enjoying over there entire Friday! On the way back, we had a late afternoon flight. It was a perfect time for a stay in Oia with the option of visiting twice Thira and once Imerovigli. What can one do in Santorini during a long weekend other than famous views and sunsets? 🙂

Let me share with you a bit!

THE BEST IDEAS FOR A GREAT LONG WEEKEND TRIP

1. wander around.

On purpose, I am going to ignore the views and sunsets in this post. That’s the core part of Santorini. You can’t miss it for sure. But related to this is wandering. Go out and enjoy an aimless walk. Villages in Santorini are full of backstreets and bypaths, full of unique buildings, spots, and colors. You will also find many small cafes, art galleries or small shops. And the flowers!

2. VILLAGES HOPPING

During our visit to Santorini, four days stay, we visited Oia (where we stayed), twice Thira and once Imerovigli. I am not counting the times when we went to the airport. 🙂 With no doubt, Santorini’s villages’ hopping is one of the top things I would recommend doing! Although part of the same island, each village is so unique and worth seeing! Are you worried about transportation costs? Check my previous blog post . Using public transport in Santorini is great and cheap!

If you happen to stay in Thira (Fira) or visit it for at least half a day, opt for a boat cruise! From the Old Port of Fira, many cruises take place daily. Your hotel might suggest you some yachts cruises or other personalized trips. These seem fantastic, yet if too long or too expensive, go for the local boat tours. They might start at 20 euros! Two options/examples are below:

• Santorini Volcano and Hot Springs Boat Tour
• Santorini Volcano Boat Tour including Hot Springs & Therasia

4. DONKEY RIDE

I didn’t expect a donkey ride in Santorini! I have seen many donkeys during my travels, yet haven’t ridden on any before; horses, camels, elephants – yes, but not donkeys. As I love new things, I didn’t wait long to try! Where can you find donkeys rides in Santorini? There are two ‘useful’ spots to get a donkey ride. In Oia, it is on the way to the Ammoudi Bay while in Thira, to the Old Port. Both places are pathways full of stairs (278 and 588, respectively), so getting a donkey’s ride might help you to relax a bit. And experience something new!

5. WINE TASTING

Are you in love with good wine? Or maybe enjoy sipping it during the holidays? Then don’t miss the wine tasting tour in Santorini! At least try a few! Wines in Santorini have a volcanic origin, combining crisp acidity with intense minerality and salinity. They are vibrant, with citrus aromas. Which ones? You can read about it here.

Back to the wine tasting activities! You can select from many tours offerings! Some options:

• Santorini Wine Adventure 
• Santorini Wine Tour
• Get Your Guide

Short of time or funds for the wine tasting tour? If you plan to buy some wine, then visit a winery shop (or two!). They will often make you experience a small wine tasting! You can try different wines and pick up the one to take home or enjoy during your stay in Santorini!

6. SCUBA DIVING

If you feel like doing something more exciting during your stay in Santorini, then go for the scuba diving! Diving in the Greek islands is very popular, hence available in many locations. One highlight: scuba diving in Santorini, since it is a volcanic island, is not about marine life but the underwater landscape.

Useful tip! Try to check in advance available offers and compare them. As the prices are higher, you might also want to negotiate! It works! My Better Half and our Bigger Angel instead of 120 euro per person, paid 70 euro. That covered only one dive. However, during the diving, they were allowed to do two dives! Great offer and flexibility.

7. ROCKS SWIMMING

Maybe diving isn’t your thing, or you might have less time or funds? Don’t worry! If you like swimming, try some rocks swimming in Santorini. Since it is a volcanic island, there are many natural beaches or places you can explore by swimming between the rocks. For example, if you stay in Oia, go down to Ammoudi Bay. Then go left to the rocks area. Over there, you will find a few spots to swim in the turquoise water! Enjoy!

8. SHOPPING

I know that I wrote about shopping already in my previous blog post. Yet, I can’t skip it here! 🙂

Some small shopping is nearly a must when visiting Santorini, no matter for how many days. Want to read more about it? Check my previous blog post. Just a teaser part of it below.

‘ If you plan to shop a bit (or a bit more :-)) consider visiting Thira (Fira). There are plenty of shops there and the same products, for example, compared to Oia, are much cheaper. You can spend a great day there, first shopping a bit and then admiring one of the best sunsets in the world!

Also, check with someone locally or cross-check on the GPS for any supermarket. You can buy some local products there too and both the selections and prices will be more convenient! 

9. EAT & ADMIRE

Before traveling to Santorini, I wasn’t sure if I should pre-book any of the restaurants. All I managed to understand: it might be crowded, especially in the Old Castle sunset spot. And let me help you: don’t worry about the restaurants with amazing views. They are unlimited! The choice is excellent, both when it comes to their offer and the view coverage. So if you can, avoid eating inside your hotel and go out. Start with a yummy breakfast, or maybe grab just a coffee. In Santorini, one is sure: excellent food comes with fantastic views!

10. CHILL OUT

Undecided which hotel to choose in Santorini? My dream was a hotel in Oia with sunset, caldera, and Oia village view. And to be able to enjoy these views from a pool or a jacuzzi! There are many hotels and accommodations in Santorini. And you might feel even undecided about where to stay. That’s how we felt! I was so happy with our choice, Sole d’Oro Villa . An amazing place to stay in Oia! We had all the views we wanted, plus two jacuzzis outside, all just for us. So check if the pool/jacuzzi option is available. See if you prefer these to be private or shared. One is sure: you will need one of them to chill out and experience these wonderful vibes of Santorini!

Happy is a choice we make. I choose Santorini.

BONUS ITEM – PHOTO SESSION

If you dream about a flying dress photo session in Santorini, your dream can come true! Two options: or you organize it by yourself, bringing some fancy dress with you. Or you buy a package photo session there on the spot (or in advance, of course). Photo sessions in Santorini are pretty expensive. If one dreams about it, it is worth it! For sure, the views and the setting are unique in the world! Two links here: Miss Santorini Flying Dress and Santorini Dress .

So when are you planning on visiting Santorini? Or maybe you are already back? Share what you would love to do or what do you recommend to first-time travelers! I am sure that my list isn’t complete. 🙂 Efcharisto!

Moments that matter, no matter the ideas.

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Santorini on a Budget – The Ultimate Guide for 2024

Looking to visit Santorini on a budget? Santorini may be known as being a luxury destination, but it can also be a budget friendly destination. Check out this guide for how to have an incredible trip to one of Greece’s top destinations while on a budget!

Get Lost in Wanderlust contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of the links below, we may receive a very small compensation at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services we use and trust. Read our  disclaimer  for more information.

Traveling to Santorini? Check Out These Recommended Resources:

Find Affordable Accommodation: Booking.com or Expedia Book Tours or Excursions: Viator or Get Your Guide Find the Best Deal on Rental Cars: Discover Cars

Why Visit Santorini for a Budget Trip?

Santorini is a beautiful Greek island in the Aegean sea, known for its dramatic landscape and stunning sunsets. Atop Santorini’s gorgeous cliffs are beautiful white cave houses with blue dome churches.

So why visit Santorini? Santorini is a bucket list destination in Europe, and Santorini’s popularity is rising amongst travelers across the globe. Santorini is a volcanic island with stunning views. After traveling around the world, Santorini is still one of the top most beautiful places I have ever seen.

Is Santorini Cheap?

As one of Europe’s most famous destinations, Santorini is typically not cheap . However, the good news is that any destination can be made into a budget trip – if you plan it right.

There are many aspects to consider for planning a budget trip to Greece, from accommodation, to transportation, to things to do, to saving money on eating and drinking. This comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to plan a budget trip to Santorini.

Things to do in Santorini on a budget

One of the most important ways to keep your trip to Santorini budget friendly (but still amazing) is to find free or cheap things to do! Santorini offers plenty of these free and cheap activities that will ensure your trip is amazing.

9 Free or Budget Friendly Things to do in Santorini

1. watch the sunset.

Santorini is famous for it’s beautiful sunset, in fact the sunset here is said to be one of the most beautiful in the entire world. Watching the sunset is one of the best free things to do in Santorini!

To view the sunset, make sure you are on the Caldera side of the island. You’ll find tons of tourists heading to the Oia castle, which is a nice spot if you don’t mind the crowds.

Another option is to view the sunset from Fira. Sitting at outdoor bar + sipping wine can make for the best place to watch the sunset! If you are staying in Imerovigli, you may even see the sunset right from your accommodation.

For a quieter and more romantic sunset view, try heading to the other end of the island to catch the sunset from the Akrotiri lighthouse. This is arguably the best way to view the sunset, as it is more serene and avoids the large crowds.

2. Hike from Fira to Oia

The reason Santorini is so immensely popular is because of its incredible views . The landscape was formed by volcanic eruptions which has made it very dramatic.

To experience these amazing views, one of the best things to do in Santorini is to complete the hike from Fira to Oia. I recommend starting the hike from Fira, as it is a bit less uphill and you will get amazing views of Oia as you approach.

The full hike from Fira to Oia is a little over 6 miles, and will take a few hours to complete. If you plan to do this hike in the summer, get an early start as it will get quite hot out. Also, it’s essential to bring plenty of water as for most of the hike there is nowhere to stop.

3. Explore the picturesque village of Oia

Picturing yourself among the white washed cave houses and blue dome churches of Greece? Well, the place you are thinking of is none other than the beautiful village of Oia.

Oia is the most popular town on Santorini island, and therefore can be expensive to stay in. However, it makes for a great place to spend the day and walk around (for free!). Oia is where you will find the picturesque white cave houses perched atop the dramatic cliff overlooking the Caldera.

Apopular spot in Oia is the castle, which is a surviving watchtower from a fortress during medieval times. The views here are incredible, and arguably some of the best on the island. This area is also free to visit.

4. Check out Amoudi Bay

Walking distance from the village of Oia, you will find the picturesque Amoudi Bay harbor. This is a beautiful harbor to visit, although it is a long walk that does include a lot of steps to get down to the harbor.

Visiting the harbor gives you a chance to get close to the water and gives you a different perspective of Santorini. There are also a few seaside restaurants along the harbor, but these restaurants are a bit on the pricey side.

5. Visit Santorini’s Beaches

Santorini is not as well known for it’s beaches, but it does have some nice ones! The beaches are located on the opposite side of the island in Kamari and Perissa. Visiting the beach is a great free activity, especially on a hot summer day!

6. Hike Profitis Ilias

Profitis Ilias (Prophet Elias) is the highest point in Santorini. Located around 3km away from Pygros village and reaches 1860 feet high. Profitis Ilias makes for a nice hike with great views from the tallest mountain in Santorini.

7. Visit the Ancient Site of Akrotiri

Akrotiri is an archeological site on Santorini. It was once an ancient Bronze Age settlement that was completely destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 16,000 BC. Similar to Pompeii in Italy, the volcanic ash covered and preserved buildings which have since been uncovered by archeologists.

Today, you can walk through the excavation site of Akrotiri and get a glimpse of the ancient city that once existed here.

Akrotiri is relatively small and will only take 1-2 hours to visit, however it makes for a very unique thing to do in Santorini. It only costs 12 Euros per person to visit this incredible site. The site is also completely covered, making it a great activity for a rainy day.

8. Visit a Winery

Did you know Santorini is famous for their wine? You should definitely try some Santorini wine on your budget trip!

While there are several expensive half day wine tours available, you can instead just go directly to one of the wineries for a wine tasting or a glass of wine.

Santos and Venetsanos Winery are both highly rated and offer excellent views. At Venetsanos Winery, you can do a winery tour for around 12 euros a person or a tasting for around 26 Euros. You can also choose to just have a glass of wine and enjoy the incredible views. In the high season, you will likely need to reserve your spot online ahead of time.

9. Take a Boat Tour to the Santorini Volcano and Hot Springs

Boat tours are very popular in Santorini, and there are many different tours to choose from. If you have the budget for it, I do recommend one of the Catamaran sunset tours that include food and drinks. The unfortunate thing is that those tours can cost around 100 Euros per person, which isn’t very budget friendly.

However, there are some boat trips that are much more affordable. For example, this half day boat ride to the active volcano and hot springs for only around $30 per person.

✅ Click Here to Check Prices and Book the Best Budget-Friendly Boat Ride around Santorini

Taking a boat tour is also a good option if you are wanting to visit the red beach. The red beach has had many landslide issues and can be dangerous, and so it is best to admire it safely from the water!

When to go to Santorini for a Budget Trip?

One of the most important aspects for planning a budget trip to Santorini is deciding when to go. The Greek islands are very seasonal, and prices will vary depending on what time of year you are there.

Fall (September-October)

Fall is shoulder season in Santorini, and is a great time to visit Santorini on a budget. The weather is still warm, with averages of 15-30C (60-86 F). Additionally, the Aegean Sea is still warm enough for swimming, especially in September.

Most hotels and businesses will remain open through the month of October, and the closer to November the cheaper prices will be.

Early September on the other hand, can still be quite hot and busy with tourists, and so if you are looking to go in the fall late September through October will be the best time for an enjoyable yet budget friendly trip to Santorini.

Spring (April-May)

Spring is another shoulder season, and an amazing time of year to visit Santorini on a budget. The weather is slowly warming up and ranges from 10-25 C (50-76F) in April and 15-30C (60-86F) in May. There can be occasional rain and fog still at this time of year, especially in early spring.

April to early May is the best time for a budget friendly trip and will have less crowds than the summer season. The Aegean Sea won’t start to warm up until later in May, but if you are brave or don’t mind the cold you can try to swim!

One thing to keep in mind is that Greek Easter (typically in April) can be a very busy, therefore more expensive weekend to visit.

Summer (June-August)

Summer in Santorini is considered The High Season. Weather in summertime is sunny and great for being out on the water. Temperatures are typically between 24-30 C (76-86 F).

However, prices during summer time raise significantly due to it being peak season.

A good example of how avoiding peak season saves you money is this: We stayed hotel room with a hot tub and caldera views in April for a reasonable price. That same hotel we stayed at in April was 3 times more expensive in June of the same year. Therefore, summer is not the best choice to get great value on Santorini hotels.

Summer is also extremely crowded, especially in popular places such as Oia. Santorini is a small island, and summertime sees insane numbers of tourists. Additionally, many cruise ships that stop there for the day and have thousands of passengers getting out.

Winter (November-March)

In general, the Greek islands are very seasonal and close down in the winter months. Especially the tourist areas, such as Oia, will be almost completely closed up during winter.

Santorini does have a year round population in the town of Fira. However, many restaurants, shops, and activities will be limited or closed completely , especially outside of Fira. Additionally, many hotels close completely during the winter months.

If winter is the only time you can go to Santorini, you will want to stay in Fira. There will not be many tours or activities running, but renting a car would allow you to still visit sites that have opening hours in winter such as Akrotiri, as well as visit Oia without tourists to get some photos.

Want to visit Greece in the off-season? Check out some of the incredible destinations in mainland Greece, such as Meteora or Delphi .

Delphi is an awesome day trip from Athens. You can be there in a few hours, but there are some amazing things to see along the way.

If you have a little more time, Meteora is a stunning destination, and a great road trip option from Athens.

Both of these are very budget-friendly places and are completely underrated destinations in Greece.

Santorini on a Budget – Where to Stay

There are many hotels and hostels on the island of Santorini. To keep your accommodation costs in budget friendly try to not stay in Oia and stay in one of the following locations instead:

Fira (Thera)

The capital of Santorini, Fira, has a wide selection of accommodation, with plenty of budget friendly choices available.

Fira has a variety of local restaurants, giving you more options to find budget food and drinks. Fira also has museums and activities, such as the museum of prehistoric Thera. This makes for a convenient stay as many things are just a short walk from your hotel.

One mistake budget travelers can make is booking cheap accommodation, but not accounting for cost of transportation, and then spending more money + time trying to get to where they want to visit each day.

This is one reason why Fira is a great choice for a budget trip to Santorini. Staying in Fira allows you to be in the center of everything, making your transportation costs lower. Fira is well connected by the local bus system and is close to the airport.

Looking for something romantic or more relaxing? Yet still want to travel on a budget to Santorini? Imerovigli may be the perfect choice! Known as the balcony to the Aegean , Imerovigli has incredible caldera views. It is one of the main towns and one of the highest points on the Greek island of Santorini.

Imerovigli is located a little over a mile away from Fira, and consists of mostly accommodation and some restaurants. It is quieter here, yet still close enough that you will easily be able to get to where you want to go.

Imerovigli is a good location for honeymooners, couples, or those visiting the island of Santorini for the first time. It also makes for a great location to see the famous Santorini sunset. Not only is it much more affordable than the popular village of Oia, but it is also more private and less crowded.

Perissa + Kamari

Going in the high season or looking for a more laid back beach vibe? Check out one of the beach towns of Perissa or Kamari. Both of these villages offer great budget options for your vacation to Santorini.

Perissa + Kamari both are on the opposite side from the Caldera. So while neither has the famous Caldera view, they do both have very budget friendly accommodations and you can be steps away from the beach!

Both of these villages are also well connected by the public bus system, making it possible to travel to other parts of the island. Alternatively, you could choose to rent a car to further explore Santorini.

Perissa or Kamari are great for the summertime, as the weather is perfect for the beach and many of the beach bars and restaurants will be open. Other villages, such as Imerovigli will also have higher prices in high season.

Getting to Santorini on a Budget

To get to Santorini, you will either need to fly or take a ferry. Both of these can be budget friendly options. Depending on the time of year and where you are coming from, taking a flight can usually be the quickest and cheapest option.

Fly to Santorini

Many people choose to fly to Santorini, and for good reason. Flying is the fastest way to get to Santorini. Flights from Athens are super quick, lasting only around 30-40 minutes. The great thing about flying is that it gives you more time in Santorini!

There are several direct flights from Athens, and these flights are typically pretty budget friendly. Prices vary based on the airline and time of year, but on average you should pay between 50-100 Euros per person for a roundtrip flight.

If you are coming from an international destination, it will likely be cheapest to fly to Athens first and then fly to Santorini.

Some of the airlines that fly to Santorini from Athens include SkyExpress, RyanAir, and Aegean. Out of these options, I personally can recommend Aegean.

Ferry to Santorini

Taking a ferry is a popular option and is very unique to Greece. A ferry is a great choice if you are already on or going to another island nearby, such as Mykonos or Naxos. You can also take the ferry directly from Athens.

Ferries will take longer than flights, but can be a fun way to get to Santorini if you enjoy being on the water. There are high speed ferries (SeaJet) and slow ferries (Blue Star). On average ferries can cost between 35-140 Euros per person. Ferries are also more common in the summer months.

SeaJet can go from Athens to Santorini in around 4-5 hours, while Blue Star will take closer to 8 hours. If you are at all prone to seasickness, you will want to avoid the high speed ferries if possible and opt for the BlueStar.

Budget Friendly Transportation in Santorini

Public Transportation

Santorini does have a public bus that is easy and safe to use. The bus is by far the most budget friendly way to get around Santorini as bus tickets cost around 1-2 Euros per ticket.

Fira is the main hub for the bus, and bus routes include transportation to the ferry port, airport, and other towns such as Oia, Imerovigli, Perissa, Kamari and more.

One important note is that for the bus you will need cash to buy the ticket.

Car rentals are surprisingly affordable in Santorini. There are several car rental companies at the airport and can be budget friendly depending on when you go. We rented a car for 4 nights in the spring and paid around 100 Euros total.

A car rental makes sense if you plan to do a lot of exploring of different parts of the island. Keep in mind that most cars will be manual, and that Santorini can have some steep driving. Another thing to keep in mind is that in popular areas such as Oia, parking can be difficult to find.

Scooter or ATV Rental

Renting a scooter, quad bike, or ATV is another popular thing to do in Santorini. Scooters cost around 30-55 Euros per day, while an ATV will cost 50-150 Euros per day.

I personally wouldn’t recommend a scooter or ATV because the roads can be curvy and have pot holes, and getting in an accident on an ATV may not turn out well. It is however a very popular way to get around Santorini.

We opted for a car rental, as it was actually more budget friendly and felt a bit safer than driving the ATVs.

Eating and Drinking on a Budget

The cost of food and drinks can be another consideration for keeping your trip to Santorini budget friendly. Also, its important to remember that you can’t drink the water, so keep in mind you’ll need to buy water.

Here are a few additional things to keep in mind in regards to keeping your food and drink costs budget friendly:

Gyros are a Greek specialty! Gyros are a delish street food option that is a great choice for anyone on a tight budget. It’s a very affordable meal that typically only costs a few Euros. You can also choose to save money buy eating Gyros at lunch so that you can splurge on a fine dining restaurant at dinner.

Take Advantage of Happy Hours in Santorini

Looking to have a drink with a view? Taking advantage of happy hour drink specials can help you get the most out of your money. Not all bars offer happy hours, but some do and these specials typically take place between 5-7pm.

Book a hotel that includes breakfast

Booking a hotel that includes breakfast can help you save some extra cash. It’s also convenient to not have to worry about finding a spot to eat in the morning.

Grocery Shop

Grabbing a few snacks, drinks, sandwiches, or items to make a meal at the grocery store will likely save you money rather than eating out. This is a great option if you are traveling with kids or if you are staying in an airbnb and have a small kitchen.

How Long to Stay in Santorini for a Budget Trip

Santorini is an amazing destination, and I highly recommend staying 3-4 nights if your schedule and budget allow for it. Staying 3-4 nights will allow you to have time to explore and enjoy this beautiful island.

How much will it cost to visit Santorini?

Cost can vary significantly based on when you are going and how much you are wanting to spend. However it is possible to visit Santorini cheaply. Below you will find the average price for things on Santorini island.

Budget Hotel Cost Per Night: 60 – 150 Euros (Varies significantly based on season and town)

Average Cost of a Gyro: 5 – 6 Euros

Average Cost of a Meal: 15 – 25 Euros (Avoid eating in Oia or Ammoudi Bay due to higher prices)

Average Cost of Water: 1 Euro

Average Cost of a Beer or Glass of Wine: 5 – 6 Euros

Average Bus Ticket: 1-2 Euros

Top Tips for Visiting Santorini in the Cheapest Way

• Visit in the shoulder seasons of Spring or Fall to get the best deals on the best hotels
• Stay in Fira or Imerovigli if Caldera views are a must. If you are more flexible, stay in the Kamari beach or Perissa beach towns for the best prices and cheap hotels
• Eat breakfast at your hotel and a cheap meals such as Gyros
• If you order seafood make sure you know the price ahead as they typically base pricing per Kilo and it adds up quickly
• Take advantage of the free + cheap activities mentioned above
• Utilize the local busses – public transport here is cheap + safe and can easily get you around the entire island
• By food + drinks at the grocery store when possible as it is a great way to save money

So, Can Santorini be a Budget Destination?

Absolutely! If planned right, you can definitely visit Santorini on a budget.

Santorini has a plethora of free and budget-friendly activities which can keep your costs down significantly. Staying in the right place and going at the right time will also help you keep your Santorini trip on budget. You do not need to stay in expensive hotels or spend a lot of money to enjoy everything that one of Greece’s most popular islands has to offer.

Santorini is a beautiful destination in Greece, and is truly a must visit!

Looking for more budget-friendly destinations in Greece? Check out Meteora and Delphi !

Amber is the owner and author of Get Lost in Wanderlust, a blog that helps travelers plan incredible trips across Europe from bucket list cities to charming hidden gems. She has a Bachelor's Degree in History and Psychology, and enjoys learning more about the culture and historical significance of each place she visits. When she isn't exploring Europe, she loves reading, writing, and planning her next adventure.

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How To Spend A Week In Santorini [2024]

By Gemma Tedaldi | Published: 30th September 2017 | Updated: 5th December 2023

Looking for how to spend a week in Santorini ? Having a week on this beautiful Greek island is a chance to see white sugar cube houses with blue domed rooftops clinging to the cliff sides of the caldera, whilst watching stunning sunsets day after day. Oh, and eating some rather good food!

Part of the Cyclades Islands in the Aegean Sea of Greece, Santorini with its black, red, and white sand beaches, is the perfect place to spend a week of rest and relaxation. Saying that the week spent there with my great friend Harriette wasn’t all relaxation…

Is a week in Santorini too long?

What is the best month to go to santorini, how to get to santorini, getting around santorini, where to stay in santorini, a week in santorini itinerary, planning your trip use our favourite travel resources below:.

Accommodation: We recommend Booking.com

Rental Car: We recommend Rentalcars.com

Travel Insurance: We recommend World Nomads

Flights: We recommend Kiwi.com

Tours: We recommend Get Your Guide

A week in Santorini is the perfect amount of time, with days for exploring as well as relaxing. If you only went for a weekend, it could be a bit rushed if you’re trying to visit Fira, Oia and a famous black sand beach.

April to October is technically the high season as it is the warmest but also the busiest time to visit, with November to March being the low season. We visited in September and would say that it was the perfect time to go. The weather was still really warm, and the summer masses were reduced as it wasn’t too busy anywhere on the island.

If you’re arriving from another Greek island the easiest way to get to Santorini is by boat. There are great connections throughout the Cyclades and out to further Greek islands. From elsewhere the best way to reach Santorini is by plane. You can fly direct to the island from all over Europe, which is what we did.

Santorini is fairly easy to get around by public transport, boat, or on foot. We didn’t hire a car or quad bike whilst we were there as they just seemed a bit expensive and the island isn’t terribly easy to drive around. The bus can be between 1.80 and 2 euros per trip and there are great connections throughout the island.

With really easy links to the airport, (if you fly in), and some of the cheaper accommodation on the island, Kamari is a great place to stay for a week in Santorini. There is a large black sand beach lined with restaurants and bars, and all the local shopping places you might need too.

Day 1 – Kamari

The black sand beach of Kamari was where we were based throughout our trip and is well worth visiting. It is a bit odd seeing black sand rather than the typical white, but you get used to it after relaxing on a rented sun lounge with an umbrella for a few hours. The one thing you will always forget though is the temperature of that darn sand. You’ll step on that hot sand and seconds later regret it before attempting to either A. get your feet off the floor by any means possible or B. get to the sea to cool them off! It is seriously hot sand people!

Other than the sand both Kamari and Perissa are lined with so many bars and restaurants along the beachfront to choose from. I’m not sure we even ate in the same place twice!

After lounging all day by the beach or hotel pool what’s better than going to an open-air cinema? Well turns out there is one a short walk out of the main town of Kamari, with popcorn, a bar, and a great view of the sky as the sun sets and the stars begin to make an appearance. A must-visit if you’re in Kamari!

Day 2 – Visit Fira

Fira is another must in Santorini. Oia’s little brother has arguably even better views for eating out with countless restaurants overlooking the ocean. Donkeys with colourful bridles and saddles also wander the narrow streets, creating a scene you just wouldn’t believe with a backdrop of whitewashed buildings.

The sunsets in Fira, in our view, are equally as good as they are in Oia and much less crowded! We watched the sun dip below the sea with a glass of wine in hand and an incredible cliff restaurant with not a crowd of tourists in sight!

Day 3 – Hike Fira to Oia

We were based in Kamari so at the first sign of dawn we were up and on the 20-minute bus ride to Fira to start the hike along the coast to Oia. It takes about 3 hours at a leisurely photo stopping, view gawking pace, so getting up early to beat the heat of the day is a must!

Starting in Fira wasn’t great… We got lost! We were up and down winding alleyways with whitewash houses and pebble stone flooring, enjoying the surroundings but needless to say, lost. Then after spotting a couple of people who looked like they were out for a hike too, we decided to take the risk and follow.

Bingo! It is actually surprisingly easy to follow when out of Fira, you stick to footpaths along the edge of the caldera and barely come into contact with any vehicular traffic, just donkeys. Along the route, there are a few steep climbs both up and down, with an option for donkeys to take you, but we rathered just grinning and bearing it. It would all be worth it in the end.

Finally, after what seemed like the tallest toughest hill in the world, we rounded the corner to be greeted by the view you see on all the postcards, pure Santorini beauty. This really was one of the top things to see in Santorini.

We wandered around the expensive shops looking particularly bedraggled and sweaty from the 3-hour hike, (it may have only been 10 am but damn it gets hot!), grabbed breakfast in a tiny cafe overlooking Oia then hopped on the bus back to Kamari to relax the rest of the day away on a black sand beach. Of course, depending on where you are staying will depend on where you go following your walk.

Planning your own trip to Santorini?  Make sure you check out our Travelling Tedaldi Amazon Store Travel Guides for all your guidebooks and maps. (We’ve done the hard work for you and linked all the things we used to plan our trip!)

Day 4 – Visit Oia

It is an obvious one but one of the stops you have to make during your week in Santorini is Oia. The typical picture-perfect postcard views of Santorini have to really be seen to be believed. Any cafe you go into or shop you pass has the best views down into the caldera, each one better than the last. Seriously if we had the money to buy one of the houses perched on the cliff face with an infinity pool to the caldera, you would never see us again!

The sunsets are also unimaginable, as other people mention, the crowds really do erupt in a round of applause when the sun disappears leaving the sky painted in watercolours and you a gasp. You have to get to Oia early though if you want a good spot for the sunset, as clearly everyone else on the island is doing the same as you. Be sure to not only explore all the ins and outs of the village hugging the cliff tops but also down at the sea, and Ammoudi beach. Not only is it traditionally Greek but the views lined with drying octopus and fresh fish are beautiful.

Day 5 – Exploring the coloured sand beaches

If you want another beach to spend the day relaxing on, then there are plenty of options for you! Perissa is another black sand beach just around the coast from Kamari, but here are also some other coloured sand beaches. Red beach is well red! It doesn’t have the biggest amount of beach to play with and the route down can be difficult if you aren’t so firm on your feet, but this beach near Akrotiri village is stunning. Another beach near Akrotiri is the White beach, which you guessed it, is white. This beach is only accessible by boat from the next-door Red beach or by a tricky footpath from Cambia beach.

Day 6 – Hot spring and Caldera Cruise

For our final full day in Santorini, we decided to experience one of the top things to do in Santorini… The scenery, hot springs, and beaches from the water on a cruise.

After a short pickup from our hotel, we boarded the traditional wooden boat in the Old Fira Port and set sail around the island’s shores. The first stop was the Nea Kameni volcano. Here you could walk up and around on the volcanic landscape looking back to Fira. Just around the corner, however, was the Nea Kamini springs…

This was the highlight of the cruise if you ask me! Jumping off the boat, which was actually a lot higher than it looked, into the freezing depths of the sea, then swimming up into the Nea Kamini springs with the soothing warm, orange-coloured waters was so much fun! Just don’t wear your best bikini, the orange water will stain as we found out…

After clambering back on board, we dried off with some local beer and a glass of wine and set off for the shores of Thirasia. From here after eating more Greek cuisine than you would have ever thought imaginable, we were able to watch the sunset over the caldera. A much more spectacular sunset than the few we had witnessed on the island itself!

Day 7 – Kamari or Perissa

For the last day of the week in Santorini, it’s back to the black sand beaches and relaxing after all that exploring. Either head back to Kamari or just around the coast to Perissa where you can while away the day dipping in the sea, avoiding the baking black sand, and drinking cocktails!

Now if that isn’t how you should spend a week in Santorini, we don’t know what is!

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Gemma (i.e The Travelling Tedaldi)

Like this post? Go ahead and pin the Top things to do in Santorini!

Gemma is the owner and author of The Travelling Tedaldi, a travel blog helping travellers to discover the best road trips and travel itineraries throughout the UK and Europe. When she isn’t writing about her favourite travel destinations, she can often be found out exploring local hikes or planning future trips.

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I have aaaalways wanted to go to Santorini!! I don’t really know if I should visit during spring or summer though.. but deffo soon!

Do it! We went for a girly holiday and it was awesome! I think either spring or summer, summer will be hot but spring would still be warm!

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The Best Hotels in Santorini, From Idyllic Beachfront Properties to Secluded Villas

By Monica Mendal

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The best hotels in Santorini have long been the paradigm of the Greek islands , with its whitewashed villages cascading down a volcanic cliffside as blue cupolas and vibrant bougainvillea line the island’s labyrinth of cobbled streets. Suffice to say that a romantic holiday in Santorini certainly lives up to all of our daydreams. The decision of where to stay in Santorini is an important one, as it will help determine the nature of your trip.

Whether you’re looking for a traditional Cycladic dreamscape in the heart of whitewashed Oia, a secluded modern villa overlooking a local vineyard, or a beachfront getaway on the island’s volcanic black sands, we’ve rounded up the best hotels Santorini has to offer—and don’t worry, we’ve made sure each one secures you a front row seat to the island’s iconic sunset.

Photo: Courtesy of Perivolas

Perched atop a cliff overlooking the whitewashed walls of Santorini, the family-run hotel Perivolas has been one of the most iconic hotels on the island since the 1980s. While the arresting views of Oia’s landscape and breathtaking sunsets are inevitable, it’s the cave-structured suites designed by the family at Perivolas that truly steal the show. The 22 contemporary houses inspired by the island’s traditional cave architecture feature hand-woven textiles in pink and purple hues set along a stark white backdrop, many with private plunge pools and colorful gardens. While the property is intrinsically opulent, the essence of Perivolas is its simplicity. Each space has such personality and flair, there’s a chance you won’t want to leave the hotel. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.

Amenities: Private parking, library, pool, spa, restaurant, bar, gym

Editor’s tip: Perivolas has its own fleet of boats available exclusively for hotel guests wishing to book boat tours around the island.

Address: Oia, Santorini, Greece, GR 847 02

The whitewashed walls of Oia’s timeless backdrop are disrupted—though rather seamlessly—by the cream-colored ones of Mystique , but the hotel still follows the island’s iconic architecture with its Cycladic-inspired suites, restaurants, and infinity pools. High-end service, sea views (easily mistaken for green screens), suites, and villas featuring ensuite hot tubs and gyms are just a few of the perks at Mystique. Plus, the hotel is perfectly located in close proximity to all of the shops, tavernas, and dreamy streets of Oia.

Amenities: Valet parking, spa, beauty salon, two pools, restaurant, bar, gym, bikes available, shuttle service

Editor’s tip: Book either their Mystery or Secrecy Villa and you won’t have to leave your room to workout, as both room categories come equipped with a chic private fitness room that includes a NOHrD bike, swing bells, and wall bars.

Address: Oia, Santorini 84702, Greece

Domes Novos Santorini

By Nicole Kliest

By Kerry McDermott

By Emma Specter

New to the Santorini scene this summer is Domes Novos Santorini , opening April 2024 in Tholos, a district just north of the tourist-laden village of Oia (albeit a mere 20-minute walk). Further out from the coastline in an area characterized by its sweeping fields and vineyards is what gives Domes Novos Santorini its intimate, otherworldly appeal. Here you’ll find 50 spacious suites and villas, each one outfitted with its own private pool and terrace, to be optimally positioned for watching the iconic Santorini sunsets. But what makes Domes Noves Santorini especially unique is the family-friendly atmosphere present here, offering immersive activities for kids such as eco-conscious gardening, nature walks, and cooking classes.

Amenities: Pool, free parking, family rooms, spa, gym, restaurant, bar, kid’s club

Editor’s tip: Opt to stay in one of the property’s premium “Haute Living” accommodations and unlock the benefits of a private concierge who can handle everything from grocery delivery to dedicated butler services.

Address: Tholos 847 02, Greece

Photo: Courtesy of Vora

For travelers looking for an intimate stay in Santorini, Vora’s three thoughtfully designed villas are designed for privacy, each featuring their own private balcony with infinity pools built into the cliff edge overlooking the Caldera. Unlike most hotels around the island, Vora doesn’t offer traditional hotel amenities, instead its focused on providing guests with customized services, such as organizing exclusive tours and excursions aligned with each individual guests’ interests. These are all thoughtfully curated by the property’s owner and Santorini native, Yannis Bellonias, who wants visitors to experience Santorini like a local. It’s a reason why Vora remains open longer than most hotels in the area, with a season that begins in March and ends in December, giving travelers the opportunity to experience the authentic side of Santorini that extends well beyond the summer months.

Amenities: Office facilities (laptop, tablet, scanner, printer), pillow menu, outdoor tub, private chef and private dining, beauty treatments & massages, shuttle service, tailor-maid tour & excursions, car or bike rental or chauffeur, adults only

Editor’s tip: Book your private dining experiences ahead of your stay, where the property’s executive chef will create a custom-made tasting menu paired with local wine, to be enjoyed privately on your balcony, each night.

Address: Imerovigli 847 00, Greece

Katikies Santorini

Katikies represents Santorini in its most quintessential form, where white domes and caves are etched into the cliff, connected by sets of stairs winding their way to the Cycladic guest rooms swathed in blue and white. Meanwhile, slashes of turquoise, visible from nearly every vantage point, indicate one of the two swimming pools against the backdrop of the Aegean. But aesthetics alone aren’t reason to book; among its many accolades, Katikies Santorini has been awarded Europe’s Leading Luxury Hotel three times–most recently securing the win in 2023–indelible confirmation of its exceptional experience and service. New this season is Katikies Villa Santorini , accessed through a private path down the cliff, offering families and couples elevated double rooms and spacious one-bedroom suites with enhanced privacy.

Amenities: Restaurants, bar, spa, free parking, pool, shuttle service

Editor’s tip: Don’t miss toasting to a glass of champagne at the Champagne Bar by Fleur de Miraval paired with some sushi and Ossetra caviar.

Address: Nik. Nomikou, Oía 847 02, Greece

Offering barefoot luxury at its finest, located on Santorini’s southeastern shores along the renowned black sand beach of Perivolas, Istoria is an idyllic beachfront boutique hotel away from the crowds. The property provides the perfect setting for travelers interested in water-based activities, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and windsurfing without having to drive anywhere. To be sure, water is a compelling theme here with private hot tubs and pools gracing most of the property’s 12 suites. When you’re not lounging at the hotel’s private beach club or sipping one of its wellness-inspired cocktails at the pool bar, you can venture into the lesser-known villages nearby or indulge in a tasting at the local vineyards that sweep the area.

Amenities: Free parking, restaurant, bar, pool, spa, offsite gym facilities, shuttle service, adults only

Editor’s tip: If you’re feeling extra luxurious, book their signature Santorini Lava Touch massage at the spa, which uses lava clay and other natural ingredients to help activate the lymphatic system and tone the body as you kick off your week on the islands.

Address: Perivolos, 847 03, Greece

Andronis Arcadia

Andronis Arcadia is the newest member of the Andronis collection known for its many luxury accommodations across Santorini, like Andronis Luxury Suites and the Andronis Boutique Hotel (both certainly worthy for inclusion on this list). Andronis Arcadia is located on the fringe of Oia, close enough to walk there, yet far enough away to ensure a peaceful respite from the crowds. Its sustainable design ethos is articulated through its use of local artwork and over 90% of furniture and decor was made inside the hotel using locally sourced materials. Each suite has a pool with direct views to the sea and the hotel also features the island’s largest villa that spans over 6,000 square feet and the largest pool in Santorini.

Amenities: Restaurants, pool, spa, meeting and event spaces, on-site parking, shuttle service, pillow menu

Editor’s tip: After a day of hiking, don’t miss the water path at the Evexia spa, featuring two 3.5 foot Kneipp pools–one hot and one cold, followed by a foot rescue massage.

Address: Oia 847 02, Greece

Canaves Ena

New this season is Canaves Collection, a collection of authentic family-run hotels throughout the island’s legendary first property; Canaves Oia Boutique Hotel will unveil its full transformation and renovation into Canaves Ena , including 18 freshly appointed suites crafted from volcanic rock. In keeping with the whitewashed hues of the island, each suite is decorated in a minimalist style, featuring private verandas–some with plunge pools as well—that overlook the Aegean and the island’s famous Caldera. Throughout the renovation, the team managed to preserve the iconic river pool suite , one of the original suites that began the entire Canaves concept, featuring its intimate one-of-a-kind river pool jacuzzi.

Amenities: Restaurant, bar, pool, spa, gym, free private parking, pillow menu, daily newspaper

Editor’s tip: Indulge in a sunset cocktail or a romantic candlelit dinner at the hotel’s Infinity Modern Bistro & Bar by the infinity pool against the famed caldera backdrop.

Address: Main Street, Oía 847 02, Greece

Kapari Natural Resort

Built on the highest point of the caldera cliffs in the central west just south of Oia sits one of Santorini’s oldest villages, Imerovigli. Now an upmarket neighborhood with equally–if not, arguably, the best sunset views on the island–Imerovigli offers a quieter alternative to the bustling Oia. Imerovigli boasts its own array of local restaurants and chic upmarket cafés, as well as luxury hotels, such as the adult-only Kapari Natural Resort , where the hotel’s Cycladic blueprint is characterized by traditional curvy rooms and corridors, built-in furniture, neutral hues, and unspoiled majestic sunsets, best experienced from the property’s upscale wine restaurant.

Amenities: Restaurant, bar, pool, shuttle service, family rooms

Editor’s tip: The hiking trail to the Venetian castle ruins on Skaros Rock, one of the most famous hikes on the island, begins directly across the street from the hotel at Theoskepasti church.

Noūs Santorini

Photo: Courtesy of Noūs Santorini

If you prefer a more centrally located stay outside of the tourist hub, Noūs Santorini is situated in the upmarket village of Mesaria, surrounded by historic neoclassical mansions and traditional cave homes. Noūs is spread across a lush green landscape enveloped by natural vegetation, making it the perfect place for a restorative wellness trip. The expansive property features two restaurants, two bars, a spa, and a designated alfresco yoga area and fire pit—all of which form the nucleus for the various communal gatherings held across the property to encourage social interaction.

Amenities: Free parking, valet parking, restaurant, wine cellar, pool, spa, beauty salon, adjoining rooms, wood-burning fireplace, rooftop terrace bar

Editor’s tip: Don’t miss a visit to the Noūs Vitamin Bar, where you can choose from a selection of nutritious and wholesome meals (think fresh salads, cereal bars, juices, and smoothies) to enjoy on the spot or grab-and-go.

Address: Epar.Od. Firon-Ormou Perissis, Mesaria 847 00, Greece

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Santorini Weekend

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• Santorini, Greece

The Best Way to Spend a Weekend on Santorini

Meet us in Santorini for a weekend on one of Greeces Top Islands! Even more beautiful than you’ve imagined, with strange red rock formations rising dramatically out of the sea, whitewashed blue-domed villages precariously perched on the island’s edge, Santorini lives up to all your expectations and more.

Experience the glowing sunsets of Oia, colorful beaches, a catamarn island tour, and sipping on the world famous Santorini wines. Please get in touch if you have any questions whatsoever.

Deluxe Package Price Includes

• Bus2alps trip leader
• Airport Transfers Private transfer to and from Santorini Airport
• Dorm accommodation Top rated & centrally located
• Breakfast every morning
• Private Island Tour visiting Red Sand Beach, & Black Sand Beach.
• Wine Tasting at Santos Vineyards
• Oia Sunset transport to watch sunset over the famous Blue Domes
• 1/2 Day Catamaran Boat Tour with included lunch and swim stops

Full Package Price Includes

The Perfect Santorini Itinerary

Day 1 meet us in santorini.

Meet us at the airport in Santorini on Thursday anytime after 16:00. After settling in, your trip leaders will take you on a short walking tour to get acquainted with the city center. We will meet up at night to go to an optional welcome dinner at a traditional Greek restaurant in Fira. The welcome dinner is a great chance to learn about Greek food. After dinner head out to enjoy Santorini’s rich night life. Your Bus2alps trip leader can give you suggestions on the best places.

Day 2 Santorini Island Tour

Enjoy an optional tour around the island of Santorini (included for deluxe package). Visit the red rock beach, the black sand beach and other incredible lookout spots during the day. After the beaches we return to the accommodation to freshen up before heading out for a wine tasting at the Santos Vineyards and wrapping up the day watching the sunset from the amazingly beautiful village of of Oia.

People who prefer to explore on their own have the day to visit the beaches and explore the island by public bus or by renting ATVs.

Day 3 Caldera Catamaran Tour

Explore the Santorini caldera by sea on the optional Catamaran Tour (included for deluxe passengers).  Spend the day sailing on a catamaran tour through the caldera.  Dive into the crystal blue waters and search for the lost city of Atlantis on one of the swim stops and enjoy an included lunch and drinks on board.

Day 4 Departure Day

Sunday is a free day to explore Santorini with your friends. Shop the local stores of Fira, explore the little villages of Santorini by ATV or explore the archeological ruins of Akrotiri. Enjoy your last morning soaking in all that Santorini has to offer, before heading back to the airport.

Optional Activities

Private Island Tour:  (Included for Deluxe Passengers)  Visit the Red Sand Beach, Black Sand Beach, Perissa, Santos Winery and Oia village for Sunset.

1/2 Catamarn Tour:   (Included for Deluxe Passengers) 1/2 tour of the island caldera and beaches by catamaran with swim stops and included lunch and drinks.  Highly recommended to see the incredible cliffs and villages from another perspective.

ATV Rentals: A great way to explore the Island of Santorini on your own.

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

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Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

Moscow Itinerary: How To Spend 3 Days In Moscow

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 2, 2023

Categories Trans Mongolian Express

Moscow is the capital of Russia and there are few cities in the world that have played such a significant part in history.

Home to the Kremlin, the Red Square, the colorful St. Basil's Cathedral, and many more famous landmarks, Moscow is a city like no other.

This Moscow itinerary will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Moscow. From the best places to see in Moscow to how to get around, this post has got you covered.

Moscow itinerary

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Moscow 3 day itinerary: map with highlights

Click here for the interactive map .

What to do in Moscow in 3 days

• Day 1: The Red Square, GUM Department Store, St. Basil's Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum, and the State Historical Museum.
• Day 2: The Kremlin, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, Gorky Park, and the Bolshoi Theatre.
• Day 3: Izmailovsky Market, Bunker 42, and Zaryadye Park.

Important things to know when planning a trip to Moscow

The best time to plan a trip to Moscow is April-May and September-October . During these months temperatures are (generally) quite comfortable, though even in April there can be a bit of snow! The summer months are hot, both in regard to temperature as well as activities in the city. While it's a nice time to visit, it's also the busiest time of the year to visit Moscow. Hotel prices reflect this as well and summer definitely isn't a great time for budget travelers to visit Moscow. Winter in Moscow is cold, and I mean seriously cold (-15°C isn't rare). However, if you can withstand the subzero temperatures and freezing winds, it can be a magical time to visit. A snow-covered St. Basil’s Cathedral is a sight you will never forget. Keep in mind that days are short in winter and be sure to bring plenty of warm winter clothes!

The official currency in Russia is the Russian Ruble (₽ or RUB). Here you can find the current exchange rates, at the time of writing €1 is approximately 70RUB and $1 is around 62RUB.

Yes, you probably do. Getting a visa for Russia requires a bit of time and effort. You need to fill out several forms and provide a detailed travel itinerary and information about your accommodation. Also, you will need a Visa Support Letter which can be provided by your travel agency or your hotel. Depending on your nationality, there may be additional requirements, please refer to the information provided on the website of your country's Embassy in Russia.

While most of the things to see in Moscow listed in this post are within walking distance of each other, sometimes you will have to travel a bit further afield. The best way to get around in Moscow is by metro. It's cheap and efficient and a sightseeing activity in itself, because Moscow has the most beautiful metro stations in the world ! Among the most exquisitely decorated stations are Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Taganskaya, and Prospect Mira Station, but there are many more worthwhile stations to be found in the Moscow underground. You can purchase a single ticket from one of the ticket machines or get a rechargeable Troika Card when you plan on taking the metro several times. Read more details on how to use the Moscow metro here . If you prefer to get around by taxi, that's possible too. We used the Gett app to order a taxi (similar to Uber) to avoid confusion about our intended destination and having to negotiate in Russian. A convenient extra for families is the Gett Kids option, these cars are outfitted with a car seat.

The best things to do in Moscow

While you could easily spend a week in Moscow (or more), most of us, unfortunately, don't have that much time available.

This 3-day Moscow itinerary will guide you to the most popular and important places to visit in Moscow, as well as to some of the more unusual things to do in Moscow.

Below you can find the list of the Moscow sightseeing highlights included in this post.

The Red Square

Gum department store, st. basil's cathedral, lenin's mausoleum, the state historical museum, the kremlin, cathedral of christ the saviour.

• The Bolshoi Theatre

Izmailovsky Market

Zaryadye park.

Plan your trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Get the best car rental deal for your road trip on Rentalcars.com . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Get Your Guide , Viator or Klook . ? Plan your journey with the  Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Moscow itinerary day 1

There is no better place to start your first day in Moscow, than at the world-famous Red Square.

This square is considered the central square of Moscow, not just because all the major streets start here, but also because no matter where you look when standing on this square, there are historic buildings all around.

Starting with the impressive GUM store and going clockwise, there is the colorful Saint Basil's Cathedral, the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, the State Historical Museum, and the Kazan Cathedral.

However, before entering any of these Moscow must-see attractions, allow yourself a moment to take in the view and let it sink in that you're standing on historical grounds (and a UNESCO site).

The Red Square was the official address of the Soviet government and played an important part in history. Many military parades have been held (and are still being held) here. It's the place where protests have taken place, as well as high-profile concerts from famous international artists.

All in all, it's one of the places in Moscow you can't miss during your Moscow city trip!

Yulia from That's What She Had: it might seem like visiting a department store is not something you’d do on the first visit to Russia’s capital.

But GUM is not like any other department store and is well worth your time, if only for its unique architecture.

First of all, it’s located right on Red Square which makes it an easy stop on your Moscow trip itinerary. Second, GUM is not a simple mall, but an institution built in the late XIX century.

The abbreviation stands for  Glavniy Universalniy Magazin or Main Universal Store. Its impressive facade extends for over 240 meters along the eastern side of Red Square.

Inside you’ll find a beautiful glass ceiling supported by a metal framework, not unlike the ones found in the old train stations of Great Britain. 

While shopping in GUM will cost you an arm and a leg, there’s one reason why tourists and locals come here anyways:  traditional Russian food  at Stolovaya #57. Stolovaya is Russian for canteen and this is where you can get your  pelmeni , borsch , and  pirozhki  fix!

Afterward, don’t forget to get the famous  plombir  ice cream in one of the kiosks on the ground floor.

Saint Basil's Cathedral with its colorful domes is easily recognizable and one of the most popular Moscow tourist attractions. The building, built on orders from Ivan the Terrible, was completed in 1561 to commemorate the victory over Kazan and Astrakhan.

Until the construction of Ivan the Great Bell Tower (which can be found within the walls of the Kremlin), it was the tallest building in Moscow.

The design of St. Basil's Cathedral is truly unique; it's shaped like the flame of a bonfire and not one building in a similar style can be found in the whole of Russia.

A legend tells the story of how Ivan the Terrible had the architects of the Cathedral blinded so they could never build anything comparable.

This is a myth, however, but the fact remains that Saint Basil's Cathedral is one of a kind and it's not surprising it has become the symbol of Russia.

Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan: Lenin Mausoleum is hard to miss. It's a stepped-pyramid construction that sits right at the base of the Kremlin walls on the western side of Red Square.

Entrance is free but note that opening hours are quite limited, with visiting hours lasting only from 10 am to 1 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

If seeing Lenin's embalmed body is important to you, be sure to take this into account when planning your itinerary in Moscow.

One of my  top tips for travelers to Russia  is to arrive early, well before the mausoleum opens, as the queue is usually quite long. However, usually, the queue does move pretty quickly.

This is especially true now that they have lifted the ban on bags and cameras.

It used to be that all cameras, smartphones, and bags of any size had to be checked at a left-luggage office nearby. But now you can bring a small handbag or backpack as well as your camera and phone.

Photography inside the mausoleum is still strictly forbidden, but you are allowed to take photos of the graves of various other important Russian figures that line the path leading to the mausoleum.

Once you finally enter the mausoleum, the atmosphere is surprisingly peaceful and uncrowded. It doesn't feel nearly as rushed as when visiting Mao Ze Dong's tomb in Beijing or Ho Chi Minh's body in Hanoi , for example.

The illumination of the body is very well done and would make for superb photography if it wasn't forbidden. As an added bonus, just after you exit, you'll see the grave of Joseph Stalin outside.

Rai from A Rai Of Light: the imposing crimson building at the northern end of the Red Square is the State Historical Museum.

By decree of Alexander III, the museum was built with the support of Russian historians, philosophers, and artists. The red brick building, dating from 1875, was designed in the Russian revival style by Vladimir Shervud.

The National Museum of Russia houses a collection of over four million items, devoted to the history of the country's ancient and imperial period.

The exhibitions include many items previously owned by members of the Romanov dynasty, such as documents, artwork, personal items, furnishings, and decorations from the palace interiors.

Another exhibit features relics of the prehistoric tribes that once inhabited this region.

Notable items include ancient manuscripts, birch-bark scrolls, a longboat excavated from the banks of the Volga River, and the largest coin collection in Russia, sourced from the museums in St Petersburg .

The State Historical Museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. The entrance fee is 700₽ per adult.

Moscow itinerary day 2

When listing the best Moscow things to do, one cannot miss the Kremlin! The Kremlin houses the current seat of power in Russia and has done so for several decades.

Within its walls, the offices of the Russian Government can be found. During Soviet rule, the Kremlin was where all the important decisions were made but its history goes back for many centuries.

The first mention of the Kremlin in history books was in 1147, however, the current citadel dates from the 16th century.

The Kremlin is one of the major fortifications found in Europe, with walls that are up to 6.5 meters thick and 19 meters high in particular sections.

Inside the complex, there are many government buildings, however, these aren't accessible to the public.

Around Cathedral Square you'll find (as the name suggests) many churches and cathedrals, such as the Cathedral of the Archangel, Annunciation Cathedral, the Church of Laying Our Lady's Holy Robe, and Ivan the Great Bell-Tower.

While Cathedral Square is definitely worth visiting, the highlight of the Kremlin is a visit to the Armoury.

Inside you can find an impressive collection of Faberge eggs, beautiful dresses worn by Catherine the Great, intricately decorated thrones used by the Tsars, and much more. Unfortunately, photography is forbidden inside the Armoury.

Practical information about visiting the Kremlin

In order to visit both Cathedral Square and the Armoury, you will have to buy two separate tickets. A ticket to Cathedral Square costs 700₽ and a ticket to the Armoury is 1000₽. Prices mentioned are for adults, children below 16 years old are free.

Tickets can be bought at the ticket office onsite on the same day, however, there's no guarantee tickets will be available, especially during peak season.

Conveniently, tickets can be bought online as well, which is highly advisable if you want to make sure you'll be able to visit the Kremlin during your city trip to Moscow.

How much time to spend at the Kremlin

Be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the Kremlin, at least half a day but it's easy to spend more time as there is so much to see.

Please note there isn't any food sold inside the Kremlin, so bring a snack and enough water (especially in summer when it can get pretty hot).

Luggage storage

Backpacks aren't allowed inside the Kremlin, they can be stored (for free) in the cloakroom, but you can bring your camera and a small purse.

We could also take our Babyzen Yoyo stroller inside, which was very convenient as our 10-month-old son could take a nap while we explored the sights.

After the original Cathedral of Christ the Saviour was demolished by Stalin in 1931, a new version was completed in 2000.

The imposing building is the tallest Orthodox Christian church in the world (103 meters high), and is beautiful on the outside as well as on the inside.

Visiting the Cathedral is free of charge and it's open any day of the week from 10 am to 5 pm (except on Mondays when the opening hours are 1 to 5 pm).

When visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour it's important to dress appropriately. For men, this means no shorts or tank tops.

Women can't enter with mini skirts or shorts, strap tops, or anything too revealing. Also, women are advised to cover their heads with a scarf as a sign of respect.

Inside the Cathedral photography isn't allowed, but believe me when I say there is plenty to see. There are beautiful frescoes, colorful icons, impressive statues, and other vivid decorations.

For a beautiful view over Moscow, walk up the stairs to the 40-meter high observation deck (entrance fee 400₽).  

Visit Gorky Park

Helen from Holidays from Hels : Gorky Park, named after the Soviet writer Maxim Gorky, has recently undergone extensive regeneration to become Moscow's central leisure hub for young Muscovites.

Every day of the week you can find many Moscow residents strolling along the banks of the river in the summer, hiring bikes, picnicking on the grass, or dining at one of the many restaurants.

Open-air cinemas, petanque, and ping pong are all on offer. Not to be missed is the iconic white stone entranceway and museum, complete with columns carved with Soviet hammers and sickles.

In winter, look out for the ducks waddling across the frozen Moskva River, and watch boats attempting to navigate through the cracked ice. However, the real winter highlight is to try ice skating on one of the biggest rinks in Europe!

Ice skating in Gorky Park

The park’s maze of pedestrian pathways is transformed into one huge skating rink, which can play host to up to four thousand skaters. 

Not surprisingly, Russians are talented ice skaters and there is a good chance you will find yourself next to a pirouetting ballerina.

Handily, you will find you will already be wearing most of what you need – gloves, hat, scarf, and thick socks and you can hire skates on-site. Lockers are included in the price if you don’t fancy skating with your day pack.

Disco tunes fill the air, and the whole arena is backlit in spectacular neon lights. Rest your weary legs and warm up at one of the cafes dotted along the frozen pathways, with the added bonus of not having to take off your skates.

Opening times

The rink is open from 10 am until 11 pm on weekdays and until midnight at weekends but closes between 3 and 5 pm. Like most attractions in Moscow, the rink is closed on Mondays. 

The prices range from 350-650₽ and go up in the evening, which is the best time for the light show. Arriving at 5 pm, just as the rink opens for the evening session will give you time to find your ice legs before it fills up with more confident skaters.

Whilst waiting for the rink to open, try out the nearby tubing track where you can shoot down a snowy hill on an inflatable ring repeatedly for a very enjoyable half an hour!

How to get to Gorky Park by metro

The nearest metro is Park Kultury Station, on the other side of the river. As always, check out in advance what this looks like in the Russian Alphabet so you know when to get off!

Bolshoi Theatre

James Ian at Travel Collecting : one of the best places to go in Moscow is the famous Bolshoi Theater, located only a short walk from Red square. Bolshoy means big in Russian, and the theatre is not only big but also beautiful.

There are two ways to see the theater: on a guided tour or by watching a performance .

Take a guided tour

• English tours are held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 11:30 am. Tickets for these tours can be bought (on the same day) at the ticket office located in the Historic building of the theatre (door #12).
• A ticket costs 2000₽ per person, tours last one hour, and the number of people on a tour is limited to a maximum of 20. The tour takes you inside the theater and to the historic main stage.

Watch a performance

My favorite way to see the theater, though, is to enjoy a performance and experience the theater as a patron.

The entrance is a little underwhelming when you first arrive, the street lobby is small and quite plain and you will be immediately directed up to your floor.

There are helpful attendants on each floor to guide you to the correct door. Arrive a little early and head up to the Grand Salon on the top floor where you can enjoy a glass of champagne while people-watching (Russians dress up for the theater).

Then head to your seat and take in the stunning theater before enjoying the famous Bolshoi Ballet or another performance.

Be sure to book a show at the historic stage, there is a modern stage as well but that isn't nearly as much fun.

Moscow itinerary day 3

Karen from WanderlustingK : one of the most interesting Moscow places to visit is the Izmailovsky Market .

This flea market and tourist attraction a bit outside of the tourist center is a recreation of a Tzar’s Palace, known as a Kremlin, produced in a colorful 16th-century style.

The market is filled with tiny stalls that sell everything from snacks to kitsch to authentic items from Soviet times such as hats, pins, and other pieces of memorabilia.

You'll also find authentic antiques such as vases, paintings, and other religious items if you're looking to splurge within the interior parts of the market.

Negotiating in English is not always possible as many vendors only speak Russian, so be sure to practice your Russian numbers and see how well you can do with haggling.

It's important to carry cash when you visit given that many vendors do not accept cards. We ended up purchasing a series of hats at the market, along with a beautiful hot tea glass with a metal holder with a typical Russian scene.

Elsewhere in the market, you’ll also find a few tourist shops that sell typical Russian products. It takes a few hours to see the market in full, so arrive early as the best items go quickly! 

Lindsey from Have Clothes, Will Travel : Bunker-42 was once a top-secret, Soviet military complex. Stalin commissioned its construction after the United States succeeded in creating a nuclear bomb.

An impressive 65 meters (or about 213 feet) underground, was the desired depth to protect Russia’s top officials from a nuclear attack.

Bunker 42 became operational in 1954. Fortunately, it was never needed for its true purpose, and instead it was used as the command center of strategic bombers for nearly 30 years.

Nowadays it's a museum dedicated to the Cold War and visiting is a truly unique experience!

You will need to join a tour in order to see the museum. You can call ahead to book your tour (the number is: +7 499 703-44-55), there are several English tours throughout the day that are held at 13:30, 16:30, and 18:30 (the price is 2200₽).

On Mondays, there is an extra tour at 17:30, which lasts an additional 30 minutes and costs 2800₽ per person. There is also the option to book a private tour. However, I am unsure of the price for this.

You will have to wait until exactly 15 minutes before your tour begins before you'll be admitted inside. After paying for your tickets and a quick restroom stop you will descend 65 meters underground…

Another option for visiting Bunker-42, if you would rather not do the tour, is to visit the restaurant inside Bunker-42. Actually, I highly recommend visiting the restaurant before or after a tour as well!

While the food is not that great, it’s worth visiting for a drink. The restaurant is also located within the bunker and is decorated in the old Soviet style.

From time to time there will be live performances and visiting Bunker 42 is definitely an experience worth having while in Moscow! After all, how many people can say they've had a drink in a top-secret Soviet military bunker?

If you’re visiting Moscow during peak season (June-July-August), it would be worth making a reservation, to avoid having to wait. Otherwise, I would not say you need to worry about a reservation at the restaurant.

Bunker-42 is a short cab ride away from Red Square (10-15 minutes). But I recommend taking the metro to get there. The closest station is Taganskaya, which is a beautiful metro station very much worth visiting.

Park Zaryad'ye or Zaryadye Park is a lovely place for a stroll and a nice place to relax after a day of sightseeing in Moscow, especially when exploring Moscow with kids.

There are many things to see and do in this park, but I recommend starting your visit at The River Overlook , a 70-meter-long boardwalk with beautiful views over the river and the Kremlin.

Other interesting places to visit in Zaryadye Park are the Ice Cave, The Museum of Nature, and The Glass Crust. But most importantly, do as the Muscovites do and find yourself a nice place in the park to sit down and relax.

Enjoy the view, do some people-watching, and take a moment to think back about all the Moscow top sights you've seen in the past couple of days.

Where to stay in Moscow

There is a huge amount of hotels in Moscow, ranging from budget hostels to exquisite 5-star hotels. Below you can find three well-reviewed Moscow hotels (rating of 8.5+ on Agoda and  Booking ).

3-star hotel in Moscow: MIRROS Hotel Mokhovaya

This 3-star hotel is one of the best budget Moscow hotels and is all about location! From the hotel, it's just a 10-minute walk to the Kremlin and only 600 meters to the Christ the Savior Cathedral.

Set in a historic 19th-century mansion, the hotel features classic rooms with ensuite bathrooms.

The staff is friendly and there is a metro station nearby (Borovitskaya), making it easy to get to the Moscow attractions a bit further afield.

Click here to book

Modern hotel in Moscow: Barin Residence Myasnitskaya

The Barin Residence Myasnitskaya is a newly built hotel, located about 1.2km from the Red Square (about a 15-20 minute walk).

The rooms and bathrooms are very modern and clean, the beds are comfortable and room service is available. This hotel is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a nice hotel without a hefty price tag.

Luxury hotel in Moscow: Hotel National Moscow

Hotel National is potentially the best Moscow hotel. It's a gorgeous 5-star hotel located just a stone's throw away from the Bolshoi Theater, the Red Square, and the Kremlin.

The building was designed by architect Alexander Ivanov and completed in 1903 and has been welcoming international travelers ever since.

With its imperial architecture, luxury design, and charming classic rooms (some with a view of the Kremlin!), the Hotel National is a unique property.

Furthermore, you can enjoy an indoor pool, sauna, and fitness center as well as the well-reviewed Beluga restaurant that serves both Russian and European dishes.

While this hotel doesn't come cheap, your stay at the Hotel National will make your trip to Moscow an unforgettable experience.

Moscow itinerary and travel guide: in conclusion

I hope this guide to Moscow will help you plan a trip to this interesting Russian city. Feel free to ask any questions you may have by leaving a comment or  sending me an email !

Below you can find my other posts about the Trans Mongolian Express , and the stops we made along the way:

• St. Petersburg itinerary
• Irkutsk and Lake Baikal itinerary
• Ulaanbaatar itinerary
• Trans-Mongolian Express travel guide

This post was updated in December 2020.

How to spend a perfect weekend in Moscow

Feb 11, 2020 • 5 min read

Moscow enjoyed the status of capital for most of Russia’s history, except for a relatively brief period (about two hundred years), when the Tsar and the government relocated to St Petersburg . But the Bolsheviks moved the capital back to Moscow in 1918, and today it’s an extremely diverse city. It can easily take a couple of weeks to see all of its sights, but if you've only got a weekend to explore, here's how to have two perfect days in Moscow.

Start your weekend in Moscow by acquainting yourself with top-notch Russian cuisine at Grand Cafe Dr Zhivago . Located on the first floor of the historical hotel National and overlooking the Kremlin, it’s definitely one of the best breakfast spots in the city. Try millet porridge with crawfish, pearl barley porridge with oxtail or traditional cottage cheese with raisins and candied fruit.

Set aside at least half a day for Russian capital’s major attractions: the Red Square and the Kremlin . To reach the Kremlin, cross the street from Dr Zhivago and walk through the Alexander Garden to the main entrance at the Kutafya Tower . Check out all the cathedrals, including Archangel cathedral with all the tsars’ tombs and Uspensky cathedral with medieval icons. Pause to look at the famous Tsar Bell and climb Ivan the Great Bell Tower to enjoy some great views.

Exit and walk to the Red Square through the Alexander Garden, where, if lucky, you can see the change of guard. If you’re feeling hungry, stop by the food court at Okhotny Ryad shopping complex to pick up a snack.

The Red square is dominated by four buildings of equal historical importance: the Kremlin's most famous Spasskaya (Saviour) Tower , with a clock and fourteen bells that chime national anthem four times a day (6am, noon, 6pm, midnight), St Basil's Cathedral , Moscow's best-known symbol with its multi-colored domes, Lenin’s Mausoleum , the resting place of the leader of the 1917 October revolution, and GUM , Moscow's oldest department store, topped with a glass roof, designed by one of Russia's most celebrated architects, Vladimir Shukhov. 

A guide to shopping in Moscow

Right behind the St Basil’s it is the relatively new Zaryadye Park , designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, famous for its work on the High Line in New York City. Zaryadye showcases flora from all the climate zones of Russia, which is the largest country in the world. The floating bridge at the edge of the park is one of the biggest selfie magnets in Moscow, providing spectacular views of the river and the city skyline as the background. 

Another Zaryadye attraction is a glass pavilion that hosts restaurant Voskhod  (Sunrise) – a perfect spot for your lunch or early dinner. Voskhod focuses on dishes from all fifteen former Soviet Union republics and its inside looks like a Soviet-made spaceship with great views of the Moscow river. Try Azeri home-made pasta or trout from Lake Sevan in Armenia.

After all that walking and exploring you need some quality downtime and what better way to spend it than relaxing for a couple of hours at the famous Sanduny  traditional Russian hot bath. Make sure to get a massage with birch sticks!

You might still have time to go to Winzavod Center – a creative cluster with galleries housed at a former wine factory. Galleries like XL , pop/off/art and Ovcharenko always have something on, most likely a cutting-edge Russian contemporary art exhibition. Finish the evening hanging out at one of the best Moscow bars – try socialites’ paradise Noor Electro , co-joined with one of Moscow’s avant-garde theatres or Powerhouse Moscow , located in a 19th-century mansion, which is famous for live indie and jazz band performances. Both serve great food, too. 

Power up for a busy day ahead at one of Moscow’s trendiest coffee/breakfast spots,   Nude . Located in the upscale, well-heeled neighborhood of Patriarch’s Ponds, Nude offers a wide range of breakfast dishes, including scrambled eggs, toast, porridge and banana bread. Book ahead as it might be busy on a weekend morning.

After checking out the Patriarch's Ponds, which features prominently in Mikhail Bulgakov’s perennial novel The Master and Margarita , devote the rest of the morning and early afternoon to exploring Moscow’s best museums. Depending on your tastes, pick one of the following: Tretyakov Gallery for traditional Russian art, from medieval icons to the early 20th century;  New Tretyakov for 20th century and contemporary art as well as great temporary exhibitions;  Pushkin Museum for one of the greatest collections of Impressionist and post-Impressionist art in the world; and the Garage Museum for some eye-opening modern-art exhibitions. 

Whichever museum or gallery you choose, be sure to go to LavkaLavka for lunch, certainly one of the best places to try new Russian cuisine, which is a contemporary reading of centuries-old recipes. It’s one of the few places to try polugar , which is, allegedly, what Russians called vodka in the 19th century. 

When you talk about Russian culture, literary giants usually pop into mind: the likes of Leo Tolstoy, Fyodor Dostoevsky and Anton Chekhov. There are plenty of literary museums in Moscow, but if you had to pick one, visit Tolstoy Estate Museum , located just opposite the headquarters of Yandex, the Russian equivalent of Google. Every little detail has been restored just the way it looked when Tolstoy lived here in the 1880s–90s. 

Leave some time for exploring the Moscow Metro : every station is an architectural masterpiece in its own right. Our favorites include Mayakovskaya, Komsomolskaya and Kievskaya. Later, unwind at one of dozens of Moscow’s craft beer places . Try  Jawsspot , named after one of the leading breweries in Russia, Jaws from the Urals region, which also serves decent pizza and salads.  

You might also like:

Why food markets in Moscow are having a moment    Russia for first-timers: dos and don’ts    Russia's best drinks and where to try them   

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