HOW TO HAVE THE PERFECT SANTORINI HONEYMOON

Important travel essentials for Santorini

Basic Facts about Greece

Greece is part of Europe and is situated in the southern Mediterranean between Italy and Turkey and south of Albania and Bulgaria on the southern end of the Balkan Peninsula. In Greece, it is actually known as Hellas with its official name being the Hellenic Republic “Helliniki Dimokratia”.

It consists of 132,000 sq kilometres of land including 227 inhabited islands. The population is just under 11 million people.

The religion is East Orthodoxy ( Christian) , they drive on the right-hand side of the road and the calling code is +30.

What to see and do in Greece

Greece has many incredible destinations and is considered home to some of the most beautiful and interesting sites in the world. There are 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites with another 16 under consideration.

Most people want to see the Greek Islands and particularly the much-photographed islands of Santorini and Mykonos in the Cyclades Group of islands.

There are 6 island groups – the Cyclades, the Dodacannese, the Saronic islands, the Sporades Islands, the Northern Aegean islands, the Ionian Islands, and Crete, so island hopping in the Greek Islands might be popular but it does require some research, as most of these groups do not connect with each other by ferry or flights.

Some islands are very romantic and are great for couples whilst others are great for families and many are perfect for solo travellers. 

There are also some incredible things to see on the mainland including Athens – ancient sites like Delphi and Olympia as well as places of considerable natural beauty and wonder such as Meteora and Mt Athos. The northern city of Thessaloniki is also wonderful with some incredible sites and attractions close by. It’s also very affordable too.

The Peloponnese peninsula is becoming more popular and is thought by many to be the ‘real Greece’. It is one of our favourite parts of Greece.

When to visit Santorini

One of the great things about Santorini is it is a year-round destination. So, if you plan to take off on your Santorini honeymoon immediately after your wedding, you’ll be pleased to know that this Greek island beckons all year round.

The summer months of June, July, and August are the definite peak when Santorini is bustling with visitors. This is when the weather is the warmest and many great events are happening. It is also when prices are at their peak due to demand.

A good compromise is to travel in the shoulder season, especially in April, May or September. In these months, the weather is still warm and there is plenty of buzz about the place, but you’ll have a little more room to enjoy Santorini with your loved one, sans the crowds.

Traditionally the Greek islands haven’t been considered winter destinations, however, this means the cooler months can be ideal for a honeymoon on Santorini.

You’ll be able to enjoy the island’s picturesque beauty without the crowds – perfect for stealing away plenty of intimate moments. Plus, although some amenities do close, plenty remain open catering to both locals and off-season travellers.

Further reading: When to visit Greece

Money, exchange rates and tipping

The official currency of Greece is the Euro.

Cash is still appreciated but credit card facilities for Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. In fact, it is illegal now for any taxi, hotel or retailer to not have these facilities on offer.

Legally you must also be given a receipt including and clearly showing the local taxes.

Tipping is a contentious issue. It is not customary to tip in Europe and the system is very different to say, the USA, but tips are always appreciated of course, and if you feel your tour guide, driver or restaurant waiter did a great job then 10% is a fairly common tip.

Passports, Visas, Covid and other protocols

Greece is a member of the European Union and as such all residents of the 26 countries that have signed the Schengen Agreement do not require a visa.

Other countries such as Singapore, Australia and the USA also do not require one but several countries do. Check the official Government website to be sure.

Officially Passports need 3 months of clear validity but many cruise companies and transit countries require 6 months which is what we recommend.

Again, check the official Government website for more information.

How to get around sANTORINI

Santorini is not a big island, but its geography and popularity makes it challenging to get around. 

We highly recommend booking our trusted driver Nikos who does half or full-day tours that are totally customised to your needs and interests. Wineries, beaches, archaeologicay and history, places for kids or perfect photos. He’s born and bred on Santorini and knows every crevass!

Use the Promo Code ‘GTS‘ for a 10% discount!

The public bus system is an inexpensive way to get around the island, with ticket prices ranging from 1 to 7 euros, depending on the route length. Although cheap, public buses can get crowded in the summer, so allow yourself plenty of time at bus stops.

There are also taxis but they are expensive and can be hard to find. They do not use a meter nor have fixed pricing so it is important to agree on a fee with the driver, before getting into the car. Taxis can only accommodate 4 passengers in a standard car by law.

Taxis: +30 22860 22555

You can hire a car to go around the island. Driving is not too difficult as long as you avoid the Caldera road between Fira and Oia. Pricing depends on the type of vehicle and the month you are booking, with summer being the most expensive. You should book in advance, especially if you want an automatic transmission. 

Further reading: Frequently Asked Questions about Greece

How to get to Santorini 

Long gone are the days where getting to the Greek Isles was an adventure in of itself. While there can still be a bit of fun in finding your way to the island, Santorini’s popularity means it is easy to reach.

Fly to Santorini

You can fly direct to Santorini from various European cities, especially in summer (there are significantly fewer direct flights off-season). You can fly direct from cities including London, Madrid, Paris, and Brussels.

If you are flying from outside Europe, or outside the peak tourism season, you may need to fly to Athens first. From Athens, you can either take a short daily flight or a longer (but more adventurous) ferry.

Ferry to Santorini

Exploring the Greek Islands by ferry is one of the most iconic holiday adventures in the world. The whole ferry experience is a big part of the appeal of visiting the Greek Islands and it’s a very enjoyable and relaxing way to travel.

Ferries from Athens arrive on Santorini several times a day. You can either catch the fast ferries which take about 5 hours or the slower Blue Star ferries which have big outdoor decks, restaurants and even cabins. 

You can also arrive by ferry from neighbouring islands such as Naxos and Ios or even Crete or Rhodes.

Book your tickets through Ferryhopper who we both use and recommend.

Islands near Santorini

Dreaming of an island-hopping honeymoon? There are a few islands that are a short trip from Santorini, including other Cycladic islands like Ios, Amorgos, Paros, Naxos, Sifnos, Milos and also Crete and Rhodes in the Dodacannese group. 

There are also some cruises and sailing trips which take in other islands, and these run quite frequently in the summer months. 

Where to stay on Santorini

With a plethora of beautiful places, choosing a base for your Santorini honeymoon can be a challenge. However, this decision really depends on what you are looking for.

Perhaps your ideal honeymoon involves being tucked away in a hidden paradise – or maybe you’d prefer to be right in the heart of the cosmopolitan action, being wined and dined. Whatever you’re looking for, chances are you’ll find it on Santorini.

Oia

The beautiful town of Oia, the second largest town on Santorini, is a popular choice for honeymooners. Oozing charm and charisma, Santorini’s second-largest town really is a dream honeymoon destination.

If you close your eyes and dream of Santorini, the scene you imagine probably looks a lot like Oia. With its whitewashed historic buildings and epic surrounding views, it really is close to what honeymoon dreams are made of.

For many visitors, Oia is “just right” in terms of size. It has an excellent selection of restaurants and some great shopping, however, it still has a calm atmosphere about it.

There are a couple of cocktail bars here but the nightlife is more subdued, making the feel of Oia a little more peaceful than Fira. That said, Fira is just a short taxi ride away if you want to dance the night away.

The biggest highlight of Oia is its stunning sunset views, which attract visitors from all over the island.

Prepare to be absolutely mesmerized by the beauty of the sunset over the caldera.

Hotels in Oia

Staying in Oia on Santorini offers breathtaking views of the iconic Blue Church Domes and the shimmering Aegean Sea, making it a coveted destination for luxury seekers. This is where some of the most awarded and sought after hotels in Europe are located such as Canaves, Andronis and Katikies. Of course, these are premium products in premium locations, at premium prices.

At a lower price point are La Villas and Secret Legend Suites, which is accessed right off the main pedestrian path as is Atrina Canava 1894, which is at the end of the path very close to the main road. Aloia Villas are also wonderful and right next to the famous blue church domes.

Imerovigli

Ask those in the know about the best place to stay on Santorini for your honeymoon, and chances are you’ll hear the name Imerovigli.

Located right in the middle of Oia and Fira but also on the Caldera, Imerovigli is ideal if you would prefer your honeymoon location to be very peaceful, and ever-so-romantic.

It’s impossible to mention Imerovigli without raving about the views, which are particularly gorgeous due to the town’s elevated location. The panoramas out over the caldera are hands down some of the best on the island and are sure to take your breath away.

Despite their beauty, Imerovigli remains a peaceful locale on the island. It does have a selection of nice restaurants, however, there’s no real nightlife to speak of – perfect if you’d just prefer to cozy up with your new husband or wife at night.

Imerovigli is also an accessible walk (around 30 minutes) from Fira, so you can base yourself there yet dip your toes into the more bustling amenities of Santorini’s largest town.

Hotels in Imerovigli

For hotel accommodation, Astra Suites and Santorini Princess Spa Hotel are two of our favourites with exceptional service and beautiful rooms and facilities.

For a very private and fully independent stay then Villa Cave has a heated plunge pool looking over the Caldera or Royal Suite has an outdoor Jacuzzi on its private and expensive terrace. Both are amazing!

Fira

If your dream Santorini honeymoon involves nights filled with divine dinners and perhaps a spot of dancing cocktail in-hand, then Fira is an excellent choice. It’s Santorini’s largest town, and year-round it is the most bustling locale on the island.

Here you’ll find the island’s best selection of restaurants, nightclubs, and shops from large designer stores to smaller boutiques. There’s also an impressive range of things to do including museums and galleries, and Fira is well-connected to the rest of the island by public transport and taxis.

If you’re looking to celebrate your union with a bang (and by that, we mean plenty of dancing and lavish cocktails), then Fira is a great choice. It has some of the best nightlife on the island, from small cocktail bars to large dance clubs.

That’s not to say you can’t find quiet moments in Fira – far from it. The town offers stunning caldera views, which are just perfect for enjoying with your loved one as the sunsets. It really is a beautiful backdrop for a honeymoon.

Hotels in Fira

For some of the best Fira hotels for a honeymoon, our pick would be Limestone Luxury Suites which are quite new and very luxe. Marquise Suites is also perfect as it’s small, intimate and Adults Only.

Just outside Fira are the amazing Serenity Suites and Villa which overlook the port and are right next to some pretty church domes. These have 2 bedrooms so great if you have kids or company!

If you want to be a short stroll from Fira town then Premier Residence is a very charming small, traditional Cycladic house with stunning panoramic views.

Kamari/Perissa/Perivolos

If you and your new spouse crave sun, sand, and surf while enjoying your Santorini honeymoon, then you’ll want to look at the towns of Kamari, Perissa or Perivolos.

Santorini’s beaches are volcanic sand and generally fairly rocky, however, the swimming is good and the sun lounges are plentiful.

Kamari Beach is one of the island’s most famous hotspots, partly thanks to its close proximity to bustling Fira. The beach is pebbly but the atmosphere is laidback and inviting, and there’s excellent swimming her if you’re looking to cool off from the sun.

Being just 15 minutes by bus from Fira, it’s a great choice if you’re looking to enjoy all of Santorini’s charms. You won’t have the famed Caldera views but you will have the beach AND prices are considerably lower.

Perissa and Perivolos both have slightly better sand than Kamari, so are great choices for serious beach lovers.

Beach hotels in Santorini

La Belleza Eco Hotel is our pick for a honeymoon in Kamari while Anastasia Princess Luxury Residence in Perissa (Adults Only) and Petri Suites in Perivolos are both gorgeous.

If you’ve had a destination wedding and have family or friends staying with you then Aeolis Holiday House in Perissa is amazing! Sleeping up to 14 people in 9 beds this luxury house has a huge swimming pool that is a feature of the home. The beach is just a few minute’s walk and it even features a ‘romantic room’ on the upper floor facing the pool.

Akrotiri

A slightly more unusual choice for your Santorini honeymoon, Akrotiri is arguably the most historic area on Santorini. There’s certainly something ultra-charming about ancient treasures, and Akrotiri has them in spades.

So, if you and your loved one are history buffs – or you’re just looking for a beautiful, quiet spot to enjoy your honeymoon – consider Akrotiri.

The village is most famous for the ancient site of the same name. Dating from the Bronze Age, the ancient town of Akrotiri was startlingly well-preserved due to a volcanic eruption (a la Pompeii) and is today the town’s biggest attraction.

You’ll find a modest selection of restaurants and shops in Akrotiri, although it’s far more limited than Fira or Oia. You may also like to enjoy a trip out to the nearby lighthouse, which is very charming and also enjoys beautiful views out over the sea. A perfect hidden honeymoon hotspot!

If choosing Akrotiri, you’ll ideally want your own transport so you can travel around and enjoy more of the island. In particular, there are several beautiful beaches nearby, and you may also like to enjoy a spot of wine tasting as well.

Akrotiri Accommodation

Elements of Caldera Suites are 12 newly built suites carved into the cliffs and are stunning. Phos the Boutique is also lovely and perched on the edge of the Caldera with spectacular views and amenities. 

Again there is a great option in Akrotiri if travelling with a group at Seascapes Suites. This a super stylish Cycladic house with 6 bedrooms and a pool with multiple terraces. It’s very private too, on its own road and with no neighbours!

The best Santorini restaurants for honeymooners

Santorini is home to some of the world’s best restaurants, from glitzy Michelin-starred options right through to modest family-owned tavernas. All the options have their own charm, and are well worth trying.

Being an island, seafood is a popular choice and an indulgent seafood basket is certainly a great option for you and your loved one.

You might also like to try Fava me Koukia, a popular local dish that will definitely have you heading back for seconds!

There are so many great restaurants on Santorini it’s hard to choose favourites. But some of the best include:

• Athenian House (Imerovigli) – amazing views and perfect service, all in a charming atmosphere
• Ambrosia (Oia) – widely regarded as the most romantic restaurant on Santorini
• Ammoudi Fish Taverna (Ammoudi Bay) – for mouthwateringly fresh seafood that feels so authentic

Sip a cocktail

Finally, an important part of any Santorini honeymoon is raising a glass to your future. Luckily, you’ll find plenty of cozy cocktail bars to cuddle up and toast to a long and happy marriage.

Best Santorini restaurants for lunch

While dinner time might the domain of oh-so-fancy degustation menus and the like, by day it’s all about long, lazy lunches, often overlooking the sea and perhaps with a chilled bottle of white or sparkling on hand to add some pizazz. Of course, seafood is an obvious choice, but whatever you’re looking for in your long and romantic lunch, you’re sure to find it on Santorini.

Armeni Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious and sumptuously fresh seafood extravaganza the way it’s supposed to be – with the ocean breeze in your hair and overlooking the ocean. For this, Armeni Restaurant is a fabulous choice, with its breezy decor, laid-back vibes and utterly delicious fresh seafood. It’s perfect for a romantic lunch, best paired with some local white wine.

Lefkes

Since arriving on the island in 2016 as the brainchild of a passionate group of foodie friends, Lefkes has established a big reputation. It’s certainly hard to go past its delicious cuisine, which is true to the traditional style but with modern twists, paired with its epic wine list and beautiful setting. A romantic and charming lunch spot in a unique and beautiful venue.

Ammoudi Fish Taverna

If you’re looking for a unique and romantic experience that’s laid back and authentic, then you’ll certainly love Ammoudi Fish Taverna in the tiny village of Ammoudi Bay. With the location’s long fishing and maritime history, there’s no more fitting place to dine on a delectable, plucked-right-from-the-ocean seafood basket. The decor is breezy and reminiscent of a sailboat, and the service is friendly and hospitable. Perfect for a more informal romantic lunch.

Best Santorini restaurant for romantic dinners

As night falls, tables all over Santorini fill up with excited diners, ready to experience the island’s world-famous gastronomy. There are few places on earth where there are so many delectable restaurants in such a small space, and where romance is proudly on the menu everywhere. There are many great choices for romantic dinners in Santorini, but here are some of the best.

Tip: it’s worth making bookings for these restaurants as early as possible, and asking if they do anything special for honeymooners. Whether it’s a total package or just an extra-special table, they may be able to make your evening even more special.

Lycabettus

For a truly unforgettable and magical dining experience, there’s Lycabettus. You’ll feel like you’re suspended on a platform above the Aegean here, with absolutely mesmerising views as far as the eye can see in every direction. If you’re looking for dinner with a very generous side of WOW factor, this is the place to be.

There are only a couple of highly sought-after tables, so be sure to book well in advance.

Caldera Romantica

Set in the historic village of Akrotiri, Caldera Romantica is a wonderful place to get dinner – perhaps after a day of exploring the nearby ruins. The hint is in the name – this venue prides itself on its romantic flair, and even offers special packages for lovers and honeymooners. With this, you’ll get a few special surprises to make your dinner even more memorable.

Be sure to call ahead to make it happen!

Ambrosia

Repeatedly named as one of the most romantic and beautiful restaurants in the world, dinner at the famed Ambrosia restaurant in Oia is certainly an unforgettable experience. Perched on a hilltop, its elevated position means it offers beautiful views, while some of the world’s top chefs craft meals that are melt-in-your-mouth incredible. It’s all good, but their decadent desserts are a particular highlight. 

Best Santorini sunset restaurants

If you didn’t know before reading this article, you surely know now – Santorini’s views are really, really magical. It’s hard to picture a more perfect backdrop for a romantic meal (or drink) celebrating your new life together.

While there are many fabulous restaurants with a view in Santorini, these are some of our top picks.

FlyAway Creative

Innovative and delicious cuisine, attentive and warm service, and fabulous views to boot? Yep, FlyAway Creative is definitely one of our picks for the best honeymoon dinner in Santorini. It’s a little more relaxed than some of the other options on this list, but its warmth and cosy factor is all part of its appeal.

Plus, it gets amazing sunset views as well.

La Maison

With its totally stunning sunset views and mouthwatering menu, La Maison in Imerovigli is a definite favourite amongst romantics. The restaurant offers some of the island’s most jaw-dropping sunset views. You might think it’d be hard to look away, but with their luxe and delicious menu (plus a divine wine list), the meals are worthy of just as much attention.

Villa Bordeaux

There really are few places in the world like Santorini, where you can enjoy absolutely sumptuous cuisine while gazing over at views that seem too perfect to be real. This is certainly what’s on offer at Villa Bordeaux, a luxury hotel which also offers a stunningly romantic restaurant.

You’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful views over the caldera from the terrace, which pairs perfectly with the delectable menu and fabulous wine list.

Things to do on Santorini

There’s no shortage of things to do in Santorini while on honeymoon. Here are some of my top picks.

Take in the sunset views

The sight of the sun lazily dropping down over the caldera and illuminating the whitewashed buildings is truly spectacular.

Oia and Imerovigli are two of the best places to see the sunsets, although Fira also offers some epic views. There are many ways to take them in, however enjoying them over a delicious meal, glass of Santorini wine in-hand sounds pretty amazing to us.

While Oia is the most famous location for sunset-seekers, it does get very popular so be sure to book your table ahead. Another option (and great contrast) is to head to a less populated part of the island – the view from the Monastery of Profitis Ilias is also absolutely epic.

Sail or cruise around the island

The sight of Santorini is absolutely amazing from the island, however, you can take in yet another sublime viewpoint by enjoying a romantic cruise on a boat around the island.

This way, you can take in the unique geology, and perhaps enjoy a glass of bubbles as the sunsets. How romantic!

Many of the Santorini boat tours will take you for an amazing adventure right into the heart of the caldera. This is an amazing way to take in the beauty of the island, and also a fabulous addition to any honeymoon.

You’ll be able to choose from small private boat tours, right up to larger luxury group tours where you’ll share the experience with other travellers.

As well as the caldera boat tours, there are also other options including day trips to nearby islands. You can also try some unique options including a kayak tour or an fishing trip that includes lunch if you prefer to be a bit more active on your honeymoon!

Wine tasting

What goes hand-in-hand with a romantic Santorini honeymoon? Delicious Santorini wine, of course!

Wine tasting is a popular activity on Santorini, and also makes a fabulous addition to any honeymoon.

You can sample some delicious local wine and learn about traditional methods of viticulture, all with a generous dose of Greek hospitality.

There are many wineries located towards the center of the island, particularly around Megalochori and the stunningly beautiful village of Pyrgos. Some of the most famous wineries include Santo Winery and Argyros Estates, however, there are plenty to fill an afternoon (or a day) with. There is an excellent sunset-wine tasting combo tour that is perfect for a Santorini honeymoon!

Visit the beach

Truth be told, Santorini’s beaches don’t have the mega reputation of other islands like Mykonos, largely as they are typically volcanic with black sand.

However, for many people this really only adds to their unique appeal, and you can certainly spend plenty of time lazing by the sea on Santorini.

As mentioned above in places to stay, three of the most popular beaches on Santorini are Kamari, Perissa, and Perivolos.

If you’re looking for a hidden gem to enjoy with your love away from the crowds, then I recommend the suitably named Eros (the Greek God of love and desire) locate at the southern end of Santorini.

Visit historic sites

A large part of Santorini’s charm is its long and unique history, which is particularly fascinating as it’s filled with a few myths and legends.

So, if you want a side of mystery and culture with your romantic honeymoon, then be sure to leave some time to tour the historic sites.

Of them all, the most famous is the well-preserved Bronze age village of Akrotiri, which is just near the modern village of the same name. It was destroyed by a volcanic eruption many centuries ago, however, this also preserved the ruins under the hardened lava.

Fun fact – some people believe that the volcanic eruption of Thera (which created the Santorini we know today) inspired the tales of Atlantis. Perhaps you’ll find evidence of the lost city on your honeymoon?

Hike!

While there’s nothing wrong with endless lazy days on Santorini, a hike is a perfect option for more active couples.

You’ll surely love wandering hand-in-hand, taking in the spectacular scenery, and stopping to capture a few of the magnificent moments.

Hiking in Santorini is particularly wonderful due to the amazing views views and landscapes. There are a number of popular options for hikes, which are good for even inexperienced hikers.

One of the most popular is the walk between Fira and Oia, which takes in all the beautiful caldera views you’d expect. It does take a couple of hours, so wear comfy shoes!

Horse Riding

Horse’s and donkeys are common in Greece and much loved as both working animals and pets.

There’s something very liberating about riding a horse, especially along a beach and to do it surrounded but the extraordinary landscapes of Santorini is truly something special.

Horse Riding in Santorini is a very romantic activity and one to definitely try and do as the sun goes down.

Further reading:

Santorini vs Mykonos

 3 days in Santorini

 How to get from Athens to Santorini

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