Santorini, Greece: How to Spend a Perfect 2 Days
Santorini, with its iconic white-washed buildings, stunning sunsets, and crystal-clear waters, is a dream destination for many. This island, part of the Cyclades, offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and culinary delights. We only had 2 days in Santorini and wanted to make the very most of it! Read on to discover how to explore the beautiful island with 2 days full of adventure and excitement!
Day 1: Beaches, Lookouts, and Greek Cuisine
Stay: Fira (also known as Thira)
We chose to stay in an Airbnb in Fira because of it’s affordability, dining options, and accessibility. Fira is actually the capital of Santorini and is centrally located, making it an ideal base for exploring the island. Whether you’re heading to the beaches, visiting the iconic village of Oia, or venturing to the less touristy areas, Fira’s central location makes it easy to get around. It’s also known for it’s night life with exuberant clubs and bars if that’s something you’re interested in.
Morning: Breakfast on the Shores of a Black Sand Beach
We started our day by renting a moped, giving us the freedom to explore the island at our own pace. We would highly suggest renting a moped or ATV if you’re attempting to explore the entire island. It is super cheap (around $30 a day) and is by far the easiest way to get around the city.
Our first stop was Perissa Beach, known for its distinctive black sand and crystal-clear waters. It was a perfect spot to relax, swim, and take in the stunning coastal views.
After a refreshing swim, we headed to Chocolat for breakfast. This charming cafe offers a variety of delicious crepes, acai bowls, and smoothies! Perfect for refueling before more exploration.
Next, we rode our moped to the famous 3 Bells Lookout. The view from here is iconic Santorini: a beautiful, blue-domed church with the endless Aegean Sea in the background. It’s a must-visit spot for capturing those quintessential Santorini photos.
Midday: Visiting Pyrgos for Drinks with a View
Our adventure continued to the town of Pyrgos, a hidden gem with narrow streets and traditional charm. We stopped at Franco’s Cafe for aperitifs and enjoyed drinks with a breathtaking view. The relaxed atmosphere and panoramic vistas made it a highlight of our day.
Evening: An Inviting Traditional Greek Dinner Experience
For dinner, we headed to Fira, the island’s vibrant capital. We dined at Salt & Pepper, a cozy restaurant known for its traditional Greek fare. The owner/hostess is very accommodating and friendly. This is a great place if you want to delve into the fun Greek culture but might not be the best romantic date spot. The food was exquisite, with mouthwatering lamb chops and flavors that perfectly captured the essence of Greek cuisine.
Day 2: Exploring Thira and Oia
Morning: Coastal Views and Gyros
We began our second day with a leisurely stroll around Fira, the bustling heart of Santorini. The narrow streets are lined with shops, cafes, and beautiful viewpoints, making it a delightful place to explore in the morning light. It does get quite hot so make sure to pack water and stay hydrated!
For lunch, we savored gyros at Filos, a popular spot known for its delicious and affordable Greek street food. The gyros were packed with flavor and the perfect fuel for our day’s adventures.
Midday: Exploring the Famous Oia and Greek Architecture
In the afternoon, we rode our moped to Oia, the most picturesque village on the island. Oia is famous for its stunning sunsets, so we made sure to be there before 5pm. We wandered through its charming streets, filled with boutique shops and cafes, and marveled at the unique architecture and breathtaking views.
Evening: A Perfect Sunset and the Best Dinner in Santorini
As the sun began to set, we found a perfect spot to watch the sunset and took in the breathtaking views. The colors of the sky and sea were mesmerizing, making it a truly unforgettable experience. For dinner, we dined at Karma, a highly recommended restaurant in Oia. The lamb shank was to die for, and the ambiance made for a perfect end to our day.
Conclusion
Santorini offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and culinary delights. Whether you’re lounging on its unique beaches, exploring charming villages, or savoring local cuisine, there’s something for everyone. Our two days in Santorini were filled with memorable moments, and we hope you get to experience the magic of this island for yourself!
Dining
Chocolat $
- Enjoy a variety of delicious crepes, both sweet and savory, perfect for breakfast or a mid-day snack.
Salt & Pepper $$
- A cozy restaurant in Fira known for its traditional Greek fare. A perfect spot for a delightful dinner.
Filos $
- A popular spot in Thira for gyros, offering delicious and affordable Greek street food.
Karma $$
- Located in Oia, Karma is known for its exquisite dishes, including a lamb shank that is to die for. Ideal for a memorable dinner.
General Tips for Visiting Santorini
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Santorini is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the island is less crowded. Summer months can be hot and crowded but offer the best beach weather.
Transportation: Renting a moped or ATV is a great way to explore the island at your own pace. Public transportation is also available, but it can be less convenient for reaching some of the more remote spots.
Sunset Spots: Oia is famous for its sunsets, but it can get very crowded. Arrive early to secure a good spot or consider watching the sunset from a less crowded area like Pyrgos or Fira.
FAQ:
What are the must-see attractions in Santorini?
- Must-see attractions in Santorini include the 3 Bells Lookout, the town of Pyrgos, and the picturesque village of Oia. Don’t miss the black sand beaches like Perissa and the vibrant capital, Fira.
How many days should I spend in Santorini?
- Spending 2-4 days in Santorini allows you to explore its main sights, relax on its beaches, and savor its renowned cuisine.
What are the best areas to stay in Santorini?
- Oia is the most popular place to stay, but is much pricier. Fira is a good balance of affordable, convenient, and offers a good food scene. Pyrgos is a quieter option with beautiful scenery and easy access to the island’s attractions as well.
How do I get around Santorini?
- Renting a moped, ATV, or car is a convenient way to explore the island. Public buses are also available and connect major towns and beaches.
Where should I eat in Santorini?
- For an authentic dining experience, try Salt & Pepper in Fira and Karma in Oia. For a delightful breakfast or snack on the beach, visit Chocolat for their delicious crepes.
