How to spend 4 days in Santorini: The perfect Santorini itinerary

Celebrated for its volcanic caldera, postcard-perfect architecture and sunsets like no other, Santorini ranks high on every traveler’s wish list. But how do you make the most of this alluring island when you only have a few days at your disposal? 

The good news? With the proper planning, you can ensure your 4 days in Santorini will be nothing less than magical! From choosing where to stay to curating daily schedules, here’s everything you need for a stress-free adventure!

 

But first…Is 4 days enough for Santorini?

Absolutely! While you could spend a week exploring every corner of the island, 4 days strike the perfect balance between sightseeing and relaxation.

More specifically, you’ll have ample time to wander, snap photos and visit both famous and lesser-known gems without feeling rushed.

 

 

What is the nicest part of Santorini to stay during your 4-day vacation?

• If you value convenience and nightlife, base yourself in Fira, the island’s capital. Here, you’ll be at the heart of Santorini’s transportation network, with numerous bars, clubs and shops within walking distance.
• For those seeking a more luxurious, iconic feel, Oia is hard to beat, thanks to its dazzling sunsets, upscale suites and astonishing caldera views.
• If you’re after peaceful seclusion without sacrificing mesmerizing vistas, Imerovigli and Firostefani are top contenders.
• Lastly, beach lovers will find Perissa or Kamari ideal. These villages offer easy access to black-sand shores and a more laid-back vibe.

So, as you can see, there’s no size-fits-all answer, as it depends on your preferences!

 

An overview of what to do in Santorini in 4 days

 

4-day Santorini itinerary → day 1: Explore Fira & take a sunset cruise

Morning: Settle in your accommodation

As soon as you arrive in Santorini, head straight to your hotel for a well-deserved break from traveling. Unpack just enough to feel at home and relax with a quick refreshment. There’s plenty of excitement awaiting you on the first day.

→ Pro tip: Ask your host or concierge about nearby dining spots or the best routes around town. This brief orientation ensures your adventure kicks off smoothly. 

 

 

Afternoon: Go out and about in Fira

With your luggage sorted and a bit of rest under your belt, it’s time to dive into Santorini’s bustling capital. Fira is the island’s central hub, featuring narrow alleys, whitewashed buildings and countless shops selling everything from handmade jewelry to artisanal goods.

Start at the main square, where you can mingle with locals and shop for souvenirs. If you’re into history, the Museum of Prehistoric Thera displays fascinating artifacts unearthed from Akrotiri.

As you roam around, you’ll stumble upon cliffside cafés and restaurants boasting stunning caldera views. There, you may want to grab a light lunch to hold you over until dinner. Take a few photos from the vantage points overlooking the Aegean Sea, then meander back through the lively streets, soaking in the vibrant energy of Santorini’s beating heart.

 

 

Evening: Catch a Santorini sunset cruise

As evening approaches, prepare for one of the most quintessential Santorini experiences: a sunset cruise around the caldera. Drifting across the deep blue waters, you’ll witness the volcanic landscape from an unmatched angle.

Sail past spectacular sights like the Red and White Beach and plunge into the therapeutic hot springs. And when the sky begins to change hues, cozy up with your travel companion and watch the sun slip into the horizon.

 

 

4-day Santorini itinerary → day 2: All about Oia

Morning: Trek the scenic Fira to Oia trail

Start your second day bright and early with a caldera walking tour from Fira to Oia. This 6-mile path offers jaw-dropping views of the Aegean Sea, rugged cliffs and the signature whitewashed buildings perched on the rim. 

As you make your way north, you’ll pass through Firostefani and Imerovigli, 2 villages known for their tranquil vibes and equally enchanting viewpoints. Although the walk is moderately challenging, each uphill stretch rewards you with sweeping panoramas.

→ Pro tip: Wear sunscreen, a hat and your most comfortable sneakers or hiking boots. Also, pack water and a couple of snacks. Oh, and don’t forget your camera. You’ll be pausing often to capture the captivating scenery.

 

 

Afternoon: Amble around Oia & savor a delicious lunch at Ammoudi Bay

Arriving in Oia feels like stepping into a dream. Its art galleries, blue-domed churches and cascading bougainvillea epitomize Santorini’s allure. Begin by wandering along the cobblestone lanes and stop by a caldera-facing café to replenish your energy.

Up next, descend the winding steps to Ammoudi Bay for lunch. This quaint fishing port, tucked beneath Oia’s cliffs, serves up some of the freshest seafood in Santorini. 

Imagine sitting at a waterfront taverna table and relishing dishes like grilled octopus or shrimp saganaki. Simply yummy!

 

 

Evening: Delight in Oia’s magical sunset

As the day comes to an end, the crowds gather to watch this world-renowned spectacle. Amid applause and camera clicks, take a moment just for yourself. 

Soak in the tranquil beauty of the fading light, reflecting on this day’s adventures and feeling gratitude deep down your heart.

 

 

4-day Santorini itinerary → day 3: Akrotiri, volcanic beaches & wine tasting

Morning: Step back in time in Akrotiri archaeological site

Kick off day 3 by immersing yourself in Santorini’s ancient past. Often referred to as the “Minoan Pompeii,” Akrotiri is a Bronze Age settlement that was remarkably preserved under volcanic ash. 

As you stroll around, you’ll spot multi-story buildings, intricate frescoes and an advanced drainage system – proof of the highly developed civilization that once lived there.

After exploring the ruins, head to the Akrotiri Lighthouse on the island’s southwestern tip. Though you can’t venture inside, it’s an iconic landmark with breathtaking sea views and a rich maritime history. 

 

 

Afternoon: Unwind in Perissa or Vlychada Beach

Next on your agenda is a dose of beach relaxation. If you’re craving a vibrant atmosphere and diverse entertainment options, Perissa Beach fits the bill. Offering a long stretch of coastline, it’s dotted with beach bars, eateries and first-rate amenities.

On the other hand, if tranquility and a lunar-like scenery are more your vibe, make your way to Vlychada Beach.

Once you’ve found the perfect spot, spread out your towel or snag a sunbed and let the Aegean waves lull you into bliss. Cool off with a quick swim or explore the shoreline on foot, snapping pictures of the black sand and imposing cliffs.

 

Evening: Indulge in a flavorsome wine tasting 

 

 

As the afternoon progresses, shift into tasting mode with a wine tour in Santorini. The island’s volcanic soil imparts a distinctive mineral quality to its grapes, resulting in crisp whites and sweet dessert wines.

Wineries like Hatzidakis, Gavalas and Estate Argyros welcome guests to their premises to sample their finest labels.

With an expert guide detailing the winemaking process, this sensory experience will be one for the books!

 

4-day Santorini itinerary → day 4: Village hopping

Morning: Take it slow in Megalochori and Pyrgos

Begin your final day by exploring 2 of the island’s most authentic villages. Nestled amid vineyards, Megalochori has preserved Santorini’s traditional character. From underground cave houses to a 6-bell tower church and a cute square, it’s a treat for the eyes! 

Next, move on to Pyrgos, perched atop a hill and crowned by a Venetian castle. Here, you’ll find labyrinthine lanes and panoramic vistas, making it a prime spot for capturing those lesser-seen angles of Santorini’s beauty. 

 

 

Afternoon: Visit the Monastery of Profitis Ilias and eat lunch in Kamari

Wrap up your morning by driving to Profitis Ilias, Santorini’s highest peak. Established in the early 18th century, this monastery grants a peek into local religious heritage, plus sweeping views in all directions.

Afterward, descend to Kamari, where a lively promenade buzzes with shops, cafés and restaurants. Satisfy midday cravings with a casual lunch while you watch beachgoers enjoy Kamari’s black sand and azure waters.

 

 

Evening: Sunset viewing in Imerovigli

End your 4-day journey with one last sunset, this time from Imerovigli. Dubbed the “Balcony of the Aegean,” it promises an elevated vantage point showcasing the caldera’s grandeur.

Arrive early to secure a spot at a cliffside terrace, whether it’s part of a boutique hotel or a cozy restaurant. As dusk settles, clink glasses of Assyrtiko wine or signature cocktails, reflecting on the variety of experiences you’ve shared. 

Cherish this final evening under the island’s enchanting glow, confident you’ve made the most of your 4 days in Santorini!

 

 

Now, a few logistics for your precious 4 days in Santorini

How to get to Santorini?

Luckily for you, Santorini is a highly sought-after destination, which can mean only one thing: getting there is super easy, especially during the peak season.

Here are your options:

• By plane: Santorini International Airport (JTR) welcomes flights from Athens and various European cities. If you’re traveling from outside Europe, you’ll probably have a layover in Athens before hopping on a quick 45-minute flight to the island.
• By ferry: For a scenic route, board a ferry from Athens’ Piraeus port. High-speed ferries take around 5 hours, while conventional ones can last up to 8 hours. Though it takes longer, the open sea views are worth it.

Please note that you can also reach Santorini by ferry from neighboring islands, such as Crete, Mykonos, Ios and Naxos.

For more information, be sure to read our dedicated guide linked above.

 

 

How to get around in Santorini?

• Public buses: An affordable and reliable option connecting major villages with almost all island parts. Keep in mind, though, that schedules are limited at night.
• Rental cars: Renting a car provides maximum flexibility, especially if you’re visiting remote sites or want to explore at your own pace.
• Taxis: Carrying lots of luggage or are a big group of friends? Taxis are an excellent means of transportation, although they can be scarce to find.
• Private transfers: This is a fantastic alternative for those seeking utmost comfort, but comes with a higher price tag.
• Santorini day tours: A hassle-free way to explore if you value local insights and door-to-door transport without managing logistics alone.

 

 

When is the best time to visit Santorini?

Since each of us has different tastes, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer! 

However, to help you decide, we’ve crafted the following table with the pros and cons of each season.

 

 

Fun times await, so plan your stay asap

4 days in Santorini is the perfect opportunity to witness its volcanic majesty, from cliff-hugging villages and sunset cruises to laid-back beaches and tucked-away historical gems. And with a well-structured itinerary, you’re off to a great start to soak in the best of the island!

For a more enriching experience, consider reserving your spot on any of our day tours. Led by local experts, these excursions whisk you to must-see highlights while sharing stories that are hard to unearth otherwise.

 

 

FAQs about spending 4 days in Santorini

Which is prettier, Santorini or Mykonos?

Each has its own unique beauty. Santorini boasts dramatic caldera views, volcanic landscapes and a romantic ambiance, while Mykonos shines with picturesque windmills, sandy beaches and cosmopolitan nightlife.

 

How many days in Santorini?

If you’re a first-timer, 3-5 days is ideal. This way, you can explore beyond the touristy highlights and dive deeper into the local culture without rushing.

 

Is 4 nights in Santorini too much?

Nope! 4 nights are great for a relaxed yet adventure-filled holiday!