Honeymooning in Santorini: Romantic Guide
It is no secret that Santorini is known as one of the most romantic destinations in the world, thanks to its dreamy landscapes, iconic white-washed villages, and stunning sunsets. If you dream about spending your honeymoon in Santorini, this romantic guide will give you all the information you need to visit the Greek island!
Santorini is one of the 220 islands that make up Greece's Cyclades archipelago, and it stands out as one of the most popular and picturesque. Nestled in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, this iconic island is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and charm. Santorini's geography is quite unique, the island was formed by a massive volcano eruption around 3,600 years ago that created its distinctive crescent-shaped caldera. Today, the caldera is partially submerged, surrounded by steep cliffs that rise dramatically from the sea.
Santorini has a typical Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. If you plan on honeymooning in Santorini, you should come between May and September, when the skies are clear and the temperatures are high. You can check out our guide on the best time to visit Santorini for more details. We also recommend spending at least 4 days in Santorini to make the most of your trip. If you don't plan on island hopping and you're looking for a relaxing honeymoon, 8-10 days in Santorini is perfect.
Santorini is home to some of the most stunning views in the world! Its rugged coastlines, distinct volcanic beaches, white, blue-domed buildings, and blooming bougainvillaeas create a romantic atmosphere, perfect for an unforgettable honeymoon!
Why you should honeymoon in Santorini
As previously mentioned, Santorini offers incredible views with picture-postcard landscapes. You will feel like you are in a movie as you admire the idyllic vistas from the caldera, especially at sunset, creating a romantic backdrop ideal for couples starting their journey together.
Santorini is also home to some of the most luxurious accommodations. If you're looking to splurge on your first trip together as a married couple, this is the place to do it! Cliffside hotels with private infinity pools and hot tubs, cave-style suites, and stunning views of the caldera offer a secluded, romantic escape. While Santorini is a popular destination, there are many quieter, more intimate spots perfect for honeymooners looking for privacy. The hotels are often located away from the main streets, creating a more peaceful setting.
Santorini is also a perfect destination for many different types of travellers, there's something for everyone! If you want to relax, you can spend a day on one of the pristine beaches or take a boat tour. For thrill-seekers, there are plenty of adventurous activities you can try, such as jet skiing, scuba diving or flyboarding. Santorini is also steeped in history, home to the fascinating Akrotiri archaeological site, an ancient Minoan city that was buried by volcanic ash.
Where to stay in Santorini
Santorini is a relatively small island, you can travel from one end to the other in about 45 minutes. This article on how to get to Santorini provides some tips on travelling around the island. It is recommended to stay quiet centrally for the best views, restaurants and bars. Fira is the capital of Santorini, which sits on the edge of the caldera. If you're looking to be in the hustle and bustle of the island, Fira is the ideal option. It's a great base for exploring the rest of the island and has a range of restaurants, shops and nightclubs.
Oia is perhaps the most famous village in Santorini, perched on a cliffside overlooking the caldera with amazing panoramic views. Oia is the prime sunset spot on the island and offers plenty of luxurious hotels. Its narrow streets, white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches also make this the most picturesque village. Oia is a great place to stay if you want a relaxing getaway and breathtaking views. The town is easily walkable, perfect for a light stroll and aimless exploring!
The villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli are both quieter options located between Fira and Oia, on the highest point of the caldera. These villages are more residential and less touristy with fantastic views of Santorini. If you want to be away from the action and feel more secluded, Firostefani or Imerovigli could be a good option.
What to do in Santorini
Now you know where to stay and when to visit, it's time to plan your honeymoon itinerary for Santorini! With magical scenery, interesting topography and fascinating history, you will find plenty of activities to fill your time on this blissful island.
Romantic Activities
One of the best reasons to spend your honeymoon in Santorini is for the incredibly romantic activities that the island has to offer! Here are our top picks for romantic experiences in Santorini.
1. Boat cruise
Due to its deep blue waters and breathtaking coastal scenery, a boat tour in Santorini is a must-do activity. If you're looking to spend quality time with your new spouse, a luxury cruise could not be more romantic! On this catamaran cruise from Oia, you'll spend your day exploring famous spots in Santorini, such as Ammoudi Bay, Venetian Lighthouse and Indian Rock. Visit the iconic volcanic hot springs, where you can relax in the warm waters, known for their healing properties. You'll also be treated to a traditional Greek meal with an open bar.
2. Watch the sunset
The sunset in Santorini is famous, a mesmerising display of colours lighting up the sky each evening. This beautiful sunset creates a romantic ambience on the island and is a must-see spectacle. Some of the best spots to watch the sunset include Ammoudi Bay, the streets of Oia and Old Castle. Enjoying the legendary sunset is one of the best ways to celebrate your honeymoon! If you want a more unique experience, book a romantic sunset catamaran cruise in Santorini. Snorkel in the Aegean Sea, relax in the hot springs, and enjoy a delicious Greek dinner while overlooking the sun slowly dip below the horizon from Oia, the perfect way to end your day in Santorini.
3. Wine tasting
Santorini’s volcanic soil makes it one of the most unique wine regions in the world, and a wine-tasting experience is a must for honeymooners. At a traditional winery, you can learn about wine production from the locals and try the famous dry white wine, such as Assyrtiko. Santo Wines, Domaine Sigalas and Venetsanos Winery are some of the finest options on the island, where you can sip wine with your loved one and enjoy the panoramic views.
4. Private dining
Many hotels and restaurants in Santorini offer private dining experiences with candlelit tables overlooking the caldera, ideal for a special honeymoon dinner. Spend quality one-on-one time on this wonderful secluded experience, a memorable way to end your evening. The food in Greece is also delicious, famous for its fresh ingredients, rich flavours, and Mediterranean influences.
5. Beaches
Due to its volcanic activity, Santorini is home to very distinct, unique beaches. Instead of typical sandy shores, you have options such as Red Beach, known for its striking red cliffs, and Kamari and Perissa, with black volcanic sand. If you are visiting during the summer months, you can relax on the shores, equipped with sunbeds and beach bars, and swim in the refreshing turquoise waters. Santorini's beaches also offer fun water activities, such as stand up paddling and water tubing, for an unforgettable adventure!
6. Hiking
For couples who love the outdoors, hiking in Santorini is an excellent option. The most popular hike in Santorini is from Fira to Oia. This scenic trail runs along the caldera, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the island's landscape. The hike takes around 2-3 hours and is an easy pace for everyone to enjoy. Why not start the hike in the late afternoon so you arrive in Oia just in time for the evening sunset?
7. Quad biking
A fun way to get around the island is by quad biking in Santorini! You can rent an ATV from the airport and other spots on the island, a great option to cover a lot of terrain and explore different spots. You can also join a quad discovery safari in Santorini, where a local guide will take you on a tour of the island while you drive your bike. Quad biking is a great experience for active couples and another memorable way to spend your day in Santorini!
Final tips
Honeymooning in Santorini is a truly magical experience, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime. Santorini is just one of many unbelievably beautiful islands in Greece. If you're looking for an extended trip where you can see as much as possible, you can easily plan an island-hopping honeymoon vacation, visiting other destinations in the Cyclades such as Naxos and Mykonos. The ferry crossings run frequently and can be booked through companies such as Blue Star Ferries, SeaJets, and Hellenic Seaways.
The biggest tip for honeymooning in Santorini is to book everything in advance! It's no surprise that this island is very popular, especially from June to August. You should plan and book your accommodation, flights, ferries, and even your restaurant reservations and activities as far in advance as possible. If there is something you want to do in Santorini, make a reservation to avoid disappointment!
The final tip is to come prepared with the right clothing and accessories. The summers in Santorini are hot, so make sure to pack comfortable clothing such as shorts, t-shirts, and summer dresses. The terrain in the hillside villages can be uneven and gravelly, so leave the high heels and wedges at home! Don't forget comfortable sneakers for hiking and sturdy sandals that will stay on your feet. Finally, sun hats, sunglasses and sunscreen are essentials to protect yourself from the heat.
Above all, Santorini offers honeymooners an unforgettable experience for celebrating your love. From the awe-inspiring views to the charming cobblestone streets and luxurious accommodations, every moment on the island is steeped in romance and beauty. It’s the perfect place to start your life together and create your first memories as a married couple!