Santorini is one of the prettiest and most iconic Greek islands. Indeed, it is the most popular Island in Greece. Santorini is an idyllic destination for couples. It is known for its breathtaking landscapes, luxurious accommodations, and romantic atmosphere, it offers countless opportunities for couples to create unforgettable memories.
This beautiful island is known as a luxury destination and without a doubt is very touristy and can be crowded, but there are still ways to enjoy the peace and tranquillity on the Island. For instance avoid visiting Santorini during peak season in July and August, when it is really hot and the prices are at their highest.
I talked about the best time to visit Santorini, where to stay and how to get around in another post and shared all you need to know before travelling to Santorini, so make sure to check it out. In this article, I will cover the top things to do in Santorini and the best places to visit for couples.
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Quick Overview
Getting to Santorini
Santorini is easy to get to, You can fly to Santorini from Athens or other major European cities including London or you can get a ferry from Athens and other Greek islands.
Best tours in Santorini for couples
Luxury Catamaran Cruise: Enjoy a day on the water with a luxury catamaran cruise, complete with meals and swimming stops.
Helicopter Tours in Santorini:If you are looking for something unique and romantic, you need to take a helicopter ride above Santorini. Your flight can be 30 minutes or one hour.
Scuba Diving in the Volcanic Caldera: Scuba diving is one of the best and most unique things to do in Santorini, you get a chance to see the volcanic reef in Caldera.
Greek Cooking Class in Oia: Immerse yourself in Greek culture with a cooking class led by a local grandmother, followed by a delicious lunch.
Best hotels for couples
Katikies Hotel in Oia: Known for its stunning views and luxurious amenities, it’s perfect for a romantic stay and it is one of the best hotels in Santorini.
Divine Cave Experience: Unique cave-style accommodations providing a blend of luxury and tradition.It is one of the most romantic places to stay in santorini.
Altana Heritage Suites: Offers a combination of traditional Santorini architecture with modern comforts, set in a historical context.
Best things to do in Santorini for couples
Explore Fira: The Heart of Santorini
The first place you must visit in Santorini is Fira, the main town on the Island.
Fira is not only a picturesque town with beautiful landmarks, but also the main activities hub on the Island. Fira is located on the western edge of the island at a lofty 400-meter altitude opposite the volcano and the two volcanic islands.
Fira can be a great place to base yourself since it is well connected to the rest of the island. Athina Luxury Suites and Panorama Boutique Hotel are top-rated accommodations in Fira. If you stay in Fira, you will have easy access to public transport, making it convenient to explore other parts of Santorini.
Fira is continuously expanding, but it has managed to preserve its authentic Santorini architecture, even in its newest hotels, showcasing the timeless charm of the village.
Take a cable car to the Old Port
One of the best things to do here is visit Fira’s old port, Gialos. The port is located at the bottom of the cliffs under the main town. You can reach it by taking a cable car, which costs 6 euros per person each way, meaning a return ticket will cost you 12 euros. If you don’t want to take a cable car, you can walk down the 600 steps free of charge.
This is the old harbour of Santorini, which used to be the main one. I remember reading a novel about a girl who travelled to Santorini, and at that time, she arrived at this port. There was no public transport to take her to the main town, so she had to use donkeys. The donkey station is still there, you can go and check it out.
There are some restaurants, and you can also book a boat tour for a day or half a day and go to the volcanic island.
Discover the Hidden Gem of Megalochori
Megalochori is one of Santorini's hidden gems, and you must visit it. It is a beautiful village just a short drive from Fira. This charming village is known for its traditional Cycladic architecture, winding cobblestone streets, and peaceful atmosphere.
Megalochori like many other Greek towns offers many photo opportunities, and since there aren’t many tourists here, you can take your time and take photos without queuing or rushing.
If you want to stay away from the touristy places and are looking for a peaceful stay, this is the place to be. Megalochori is also a great base for exploring the southern part of Santorini. From here, you can easily reach the famous Red Beach and the ancient ruins of Akrotiri.
CHECK ACCOMODATION IN MEGALOCHORI
Experience the Magic of Oia
Oia is the most photographed town in Santorini and has been a filming location for many TV series and movies. When you try to imagine Santorini, the picture of Oia probably comes to mind. It is indeed one of the most beautiful towns in Greece, which is why it is the busiest place in Santorini.
There are many hotels and different types of accommodation in Oia, and many tourists want to stay in this tiny town, so the prices are high. Not just accommodation, even food and drink in Oia can be pricey.
We decided to have a drink, actually, this one is non-alcoholic and this one is orange juice. It's good to have a drink and enjoy the view, but keep in mind that you are in Santorini, a popular place, so the prices are higher than in other parts of Greece. Also, remember that you will need to queue to take photos at the famous spots.
Oia is the most popular spot in Santorini to watch the sunset. If you plan to come here for the sunset, you need to arrive 3 to 4 hours ahead of time to find a car park and secure a good spot. You can also take the Santorini tour which is included the sunset in Oia.
Unwind at Pyrgos
Pyrgos is another hidden gem in Santorini. It is just a 5-minute drive from Megalochori and a 10-minute drive from Fira. This charming village offers a serene escape from the more crowded tourist spots on the island. Pyrgos is located on a hill and is the highest village in Santorini, offering stunning panoramic views of the island and the Aegean Sea. Exploring Pyrgos feels like stepping back in time, with its well-preserved medieval architecture and traditional Greek charm.
Pyrgos can also be a great place to stay, providing a peaceful and authentic experience. Some of the best hotels in Pyrgos include Aegean Blue Suites, Phaos 1870, and Elessa Hotel.
Pyrgos is home to several excellent restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy authentic Greek cuisine in a peaceful setting. Keep in mind that Pyrgos is another great spot to watch the sunset in Santorini.
Visit the Unique Red Beach
One of the best places to visit in Santorini is Kaminia Beach, also known as Red Beach. To get here you have to drive, and the road is not the best. If you are not comfortable, you should probably park on the main road or in the village and walk 1 kilometre to the beach.
The Red Beach is located in the southern part of the island in Akrotiri village, just a 20-minute drive from Fira. You can also get here by boat from other towns in Santorini.
Red Beach in Santorini is very unique. It is a volcanic sandy beach with striking red cliffs that contrast beautifully with the turquoise waters. This dramatic scenery makes it one of the most picturesque spots on the island. Red Beach is a great place for swimming, snorkelling and relaxing.
Enjoy the Romance of Imerovigli
Imerovigli is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Santorini. It is considered one of the most romantic destinations in Greece and is often referred to as the honeymoon spot in Santorini. The village is characterised by its narrow, winding paths, charming whitewashed houses, and elegant blue-domed churches. It’s an ideal place for couples looking to experience the romance and beauty of Santorini.
BOOK ROMANTIC HOTEL IN IMEROVIGLI
This village is a true gem and offers stunning photo opportunities. Here you can hire a professional photographer and beautiful long dresses for a photoshoot.
BOOK SANTORINI FLYING DRESS PHOTOSHOOT
Hike Up to Skaros Rock
One of the highlights of Imerovigli is Skaros Rock a historic site that offers spectacular views and a glimpse into the island's medieval past.
n the olden days, a majestic castle stood on Skaros Rock, serving as the principal place for the Christian congregation in Santorini until the early 1800s. Unfortunately, the castle was completely ruined during an earthquake in the 19th century, and today, all that remains are its remnants.
You hike up to Skaros Rock.
The trail begins in Imerovigli and is relatively easy to follow, with well-marked paths leading to the rock. The hike offers stunning panoramic views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea, making it a perfect activity for couples seeking a blend of history, nature, and a bit of adventure.
Relax at the Black Beach
Another unique place to visit in Santorini is the Black Beach. This beach is famous for its distinctive black volcanic sand, which creates a stunning contrast with the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea.
It is located on the southeastern coast of the island just 12 km away from Fira.
Black Beach is well-equipped with amenities. You'll find numerous sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent, along with beach bars and tavernas offering refreshing drinks and delicious local cuisine. The relaxed atmosphere and beautiful scenery make it a perfect spot to unwind.
Go on a sea kayaking trip
Santorini is also a great place for water activities and for couples for a blend of adventure, nature, and relaxation, the Sea Kayaking Tour with Picnic in Santorini is an excellent choice. This tour offers a unique perspective of the island’s southern coastline, with its striking rock formations, and pristine waters.
One of the highlights of this tour is the opportunity to explore enchanting sea caves. Additionally, you have the chance to snorkel, allowing you to discover the marine life beneath the surface.
BOOK SEA KAYAKING TOUR IN SANTORINI
Ride a horse to a beach
For a romantic and adventurous experience, consider a guided horseback riding day trip to one of Santorini’s beautiful beaches. This unique tour offers couples the chance to explore the island’s stunning landscapes from a different perspective.
The highlight of the tour is arriving at a serene beach, where you can ride along the shore, feeling the refreshing sea breeze and taking in the spectacular coastal views. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour ensures safety and provides interesting insights into the local culture and history. Riding together on horseback, couples can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of Santorini’s natural scenery, making it a memorable experience.
Santorini is not a huge island, but this doesn’t mean you can walk everywhere. There are buses and taxis on the island but they can be slow, so the most convenient way to go around the island is to rent a car. Renting a car allows you to visit all the romantic spots.