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Santorini Honeymoon in Greece: A complete guide to planning the trip of your dreams (with packages)
Home to the iconic caldera, ultra-luxurious hotels perched on cliff-sides, volcanic beaches, Cycladic white-washed villages, and breathtaking sunsets, Santorini is a bucket list destination for honeymooners! So, are you planning a Santorini honeymoon and have no clue where to start from?
No worries, we’re here to help you plan your dream honeymoon in Santorini without breaking a sweat! Keep reading to find out all the information you need to know about your trip, from the best hotels in Santorini and the island’s must-visits to the best things to do in Santorini and insider tips.
Read: Santorini holidays travel guide, Honeymoon in Greece
Explore other Greek destinations: Mykonos, Crete
Santorini honeymoon in a nutshell
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Watch the glorious Santorini sunset from Oia. Sunset-watching is one of the best experiences to have in Santorini and the reason why millions of tourists visit the island every year. |
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Best honeymoon tour |
Majestic Santorini volcano, hot springs, and Thirassia full-day tour. Unveil the mysteries of the Santorini volcano, swim in the hot springs, and catch incredible landscape views on Thirassia island. |
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Best honeymoon travel package |
Romantic Santorini Honeymoon. A world full of majestic sunsets, breathtaking views, volcanic landscapes, and unlimited luxury. |
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Best honeymoon hotel in Santorini |
Canaves Oia Suites. Hanging from the edge of the dramatic Santorini caldera, Canaves offers a spectacular sunset view, which you can enjoy from the comfort of your private balcony or infinity pool. |
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The best time to visit Santorini for your honeymoon
The best time to visit Santorini for your honeymoon in terms of weather is from spring to early fall (April to October). During these months, the weather in Santorini is ideal for exploration and sightseeing. If you want to enjoy Santorini beaches, though, the best months to visit Santorini are June, July, August, and September, when the weather is hotter. Keep in mind that the tourist season peaks in July and August, so expect Santorini to be rather crowded during these months -especially Oia and Fira. Peak season is also the most expensive and overbooked season in Santorini. So if you want to stay at the hotel of your dreams, you should book as far in advance as you can, i.e. 6-12 months earlier.
Where to stay in Santorini
Cycladic buildings and the volcanic caldera in Santorini
Location is everything when it comes to choosing where to stay in Santorini. Although there are many beautiful hotels in Santorini, the most exclusive and luxurious ones lie in Oia and Fira. However, these two villages can get very crowded and expensive in peak season. If you want to escape the crowds and save a bit of money, Imerovigli and Firostefani are great! Let’s have a closer look at the best villages in Santorini.
Oia
Oia is the most popular settlement in Santorini, due to its amazing sunset view and volcanic landscape. It is located in the north part of the island, 11 km away from the more crowded Fira village. Built on the top of Santorini caldera, it has a breathtaking landscape and an even more breathtaking view of the mesmerizing Aegean sea and Santorini sunset. Honestly, watching the sun sinking in the sea from Oia will leave you speechless, let alone watching it from an infinity pool in Oia!
This village is full of the trademarks of the Cyclades islands: whitewashed houses, blue- domed churches, narrow paved streets, and balconies on the edge of the caldera. Oia also has a fantastic view of the tiny islands of Nea Kameni, Palia Kameni, and Thirassia.
Fira
Fira, the capital of Santorini, is located on the western side of the island. It is ideally set on Santorini caldera, offering an idyllic view of the enthralling sunset.
Fira is the most cosmopolitan village in Santorini, as it has many restaurants, bars, clubs, luxurious hotels, and fashion boutiques. If you’re searching for the perfect place to socialize and do some shopping, this is it!
Imerovigli
Imerovigli is a traditional settlement in Santorini, located just 3 km away from Fira. Its majestic location on the caldera, 300 meters above sea level, makes it the ideal option for accommodation in Santorini.
Imerovigli is relatively more quiet compared to the busy Oia and Fira, so if you’re someone who loves serenity, consider it for your stay. Also, thanks to its location on Santorini caldera, Imerovigli boasts a fantastic sunset view.
The scenery in Imerovigli is very romantic! Luxurious hotels with pools built literally on the edge of the caldera, colorful sunsets, and a sense of tranquility make Imerovigli an ideal destination for a quiet vacation in Santorini.
Firostefani
Firostefani is a beautiful village in Santorini, just 2 km away from Fira. Thanks to its proximity to Fira, Firostefani is a great option for those who want to be close to the capital, yet far from the crowds. Besides, there are many museums and sites within a walking distance of Firostefani!
Firostefani is also built on the caldera, offering majestic views in abundance. It is a great spot to enjoy the famous Santorini sunset, skipping the often crowded narrow paths of Oia and Fira. Stroll around the stone-paved alleys, marvel at the scenery, have a drink on a roof… Enjoy your vacation in Santorini at your own pace!
Santorini Honeymoon Hotels and Suites
Katikies Kirini hotel in Santorini
Splurging on a luxurious hotel in Santorini will make your honeymoon extra special! Santorini is famous for its luxurious caldera-hanging hotels and exclusive villas, which are often the main reason why honeymooners visit the island. Our tip is to book your hotel as far in advance as you can, as Santorini hotels book up fast!
Some of the best hotels to stay in Santorini are Santo Maris Oia (for luxurious stone suites with sunset views and top-notch facilities), Canaves Oia Suites (for luxurious accommodation with stunning views of the caldera and romantic activities), Katikies Santorini (for a breathtaking setting and opulent suites carved into the caldera), and Andronis Boutique Hotel (for luxurious multi-level suites with panoramic Aegean views).
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Santo Pure is the ultimate luxurious resort in Oia! Offering utmost privacy and round-the-clock services, Santo Pure Oia Suites & Villas is an ideal option for couples searching for their very own romantic hideaway. This 5-star hotel offers a selection of opulent cave suites, exclusive sunset suites, and private villas, as well as several high-end facilities, including a wellness center and an excellent restaurant.
Who is it for?
Couples and honeymooners will find the peace and privacy they’re looking for at Santo Pure Oia.
Why we love it?
At Santo Pure, you’ll find a variety of accommodation options that cater to every taste, from romantic suites and exclusive sunset suites to wellness suites and luxury villas. All the luxurious suites and villas come with their own kitchenette and comfortable king-size beds, while most of them feature a private pool. Of course, thanks to the hotel’s location, all suites and villas offer breathtaking views of the sunset and the Aegean!
Check availability and booking information about Santo Pure Oia Suites & Villas here
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Katikies is one of the most iconic hotels in Santorini! Hanging from the dramatic caldera in Oia village, this 5-star stunner boasts a breathtaking location and offers unparalleled vistas of the Aegean Sea and the volcano. Katikies features a selection of opulent whitewashed suites, which come with private plunge pools or open air-jetted tubs. There are also three stunning infinity pools, each with enthralling views of the sea and the caldera.
Who is it for?
Honeymooners and couples who want to have a dreamy holiday experience in Santorini!
Why we love it?
Katikies offers an impeccable concierge service! The staff is happy to arrange everything for you, from excursions to private sunset cruises on the hotel’s luxurious yachts.
Check availability and booking information about Katikies Santorini here
Mystique is an idyllic adults-only hotel carved on the caldera overlooking the volcano and the cobalt-blue Aegean Sea. Combining elegance, exclusivity, sophistication, luxury, and tradition, this cliff-hanging hotel has been offering a flawless accommodation experience since 2007! Following the principles of the traditional Cycladic architecture, Mystique’s design is based on earthy tones, simple lines, and natural materials that blend perfectly into the lunar landscape of Santorini.
Who is it for?
Couples and honeymooners who are searching for a private sanctuary in the heart of the island’s most beautiful village.
Why we love it?
Mystique’s infinity pool is one of the hotel’s highlights. Located in front of the bar, it’s the perfect spot for sunset drinks with a stunning caldera view. If you want to have more privacy, you can enjoy the infamous Santorini sunset from the private pool in your room!
Check availability and booking information about Mystique a Luxury Collection Hotel here
Santorini Honeymoon Villas
Canaves Oia Villa
Canaves Oia is a stunning caldera-hanging villa located in the iconic white-washed Oia village. Thanks to its ideal location, Canaves Oia villa offers all-encompassing views of the world-famous Santorini sunset.
6 guests
from
4.200 €
pn
Erosantorini
Erosantorini is a unique private accommodation perched on the breathtaking Santorini caldera, 1,000 meters above the sea. Its secluded location offers unobstructed views of the majestic sunset.
10 guests
from
6.200 €
pn
Mediterranean Pool Villa
Mediterranean Pool Villa is a 6-bedroom villa, ideal for families, groups of friends, and couples.
6 guests
from
860 €
pn
Nafsika Estate Villa
Perched on the edge of the caldera in Megalochori village, Nafsika Estate Villa boasts a stunning location and a breathtaking view of the sea and the enthralling Santorini sunset.
10 guests
from
5.000 €
pn
Best Santorini honeymoon all-inclusive packages
10 nights |
From 4.000 € pp
Athens, Mykonos, Santorini
Glamour and romance in Mykonos & Santorini
On this trip to Mykonos and Santorini, you’ll enjoy a little bit of everything: luxury, history, glamour, nightlife, e...More details
5 nights |
From 2.100 € pp
Athens, Santorini
Romantic Santorini
This ultra-romantic trip is going to introduce you to the magical world of Santorini....More details
5 nights |
From 2.300 € pp
Athens, Santorini, Crete
Adventure in Santorini and Crete
This 6-day trip will introduce you to the adventurous side and captivating charm of Santorini and Crete!...More details
9 nights |
From 2.900 € pp
Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Porto Heli, Spetses
Chic Greece: Santorini-Mykonos-Athens
Visit the chicest destinations in Greece, relax, recharge, and live your best life for 10 unforgettable days in Athens, ...More details
The best things to do in Santorini on your honeymoon
The glorious sunset in Santorini
Watch the glorious sunset
Watching the sunset in Santorini is arguably the most amazing experience to have on the island! The scene of the sun dipping in the deep blue Aegean Sea is something you’ll cherish forever… All the shades of yellow, orange, pink, and purple fill the sky for a few precious minutes, creating a glorious color feast! The best places to enjoy Santorini sunset are Oia, Fira, and Imerovigli. Oia and Fira are rather crowded during the sunset, while Imerovigli is a bit quieter.
Tip: An even better way to enjoy Santorini sunset is to have dinner or drink a cocktail at one of the caldera’s balconies!
Explore the volcano
The volcano of Santorini is a must-see place! There are eight volcanic craters in total, on the little islands of Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni. More specifically, there are seven craters in Palea Kameni and one in Nea Kameni. On Palea Kameni island, you’ll also find hot springs, which contain big amounts of sulfur, known for its healing properties. A boat tour to Santorini volcano is the best way to explore it! There are daily Santorini boat tours that will get you to the volcano, where you’ll also have the chance to indulge in a free natural spa treatment in the hot springs.
Go on a romantic boat tour around Santorini
Boat tours are not only the best way to explore the Santorini volcano but also an ideal way to explore the lunar coasts of Santorini and marvel at the breathtaking Santorini caldera from below. You can either join an organized boat tour or arrange a yacht charter and tour the island at your own pace.
Treat yourself to a wine tasting session
Thanks to its rich volcanic soil, Santorini has a long wine-making history. At the local wineries, you’ll find the best local wine varieties, including Vinsanto, Nichteri, and Mezzo, which are exported to all over the world. Most wineries in Santorini lie in the central and south parts of the island, at villages such as Megalochori and Messaria. The best way to explore Santorini’s vineyards is by joining an organized wine tour with a wine tasting session.
The best honeymoon tours in Santorini
Unveil the mysteries of Santorini volcano, swim in the hot springs, and catch incredible landscape views on Thirassia island!
The first stop of this tour will be the volcanic Nea Kameni islet. Though comparatively small in size, Nea Kameni islet is one of the most interesting places to visit in Santorini. That’s because it’s home to the active and inactive craters of Santorini volcano. You’re going to spend 1 and a half hours on the islet, exploring the craters and learning about the history of the volcano guided by a local expert.
After delving into the fascinating past of the volcano, you’ll move to Palea Kameni, an islet famous for its volcanic hot springs. There, you’ll swim for 30 minutes in the warm waters of the springs, taking full advantage of their healing properties! For the final leg of this tour, you’re going to visit Thirassia, a miniature island untouched by tourist development.
During the 2 hours you’ll spend there, you’ll marvel at the Cycladic architecture, explore the traditional Manolas village (the island's capital), admire the view of the neighboring Santorini, and indulge in scrumptious local delicacies. It’s going to be a day to remember!
Highlights
- Visit the volcanic Nea Kameni islet and explore the craters of Santorini volcano
- Learn everything about the fascinating history of the volcano
- Swim in the hot springs in Palea Kameni
- Take advantage of the springs' healing properties as you marvel at the breathtaking scenery
- Explore the picturesque Thirassia island & indulge in traditional delicacies
Includes
- English, Greek, French, Spanish, Italian or German speaking
- Food or drinks
- Entrance fee to the volcano (4€ pp)
Delve into the local lifestyle and discover the wonders of the prettiest village in Santorini, Oia!
This tour will introduce you to the magic of Oia, the most photographed village in Santorini and one of the best spots for sunset-watching in the world. The tour will start from Saint George orthodox church, which you will also enter to admire the interior design. Escorted by a local guide, you’ll walk through the village’s narrow alleys, marvel at the breathtaking views of the volcano and the caldera from the Oia promenade, take photos of the iconic blue domes of Santorini, and finally end up at the Maritime Museum of Oia.
Founded by local ship owners, this museum houses nautical equipment from the 19th century, the golden age of the Hellenic Navy. After you have delved into the nautical history of Greece, you’ll visit the iconic Atlantic bookstore, which is carved into volcanic rock. Your next stop will be a traditional shop, where you can purchase local products, souvenirs, and hand-crafted objects.
Finally, you’ll walk to the most scenic spot in Oia, the Venetian Castle -just in time for the sunset! With your guide's tips on how to enjoy the sunset away from the crowds at hand, you’re going to have the most incredible sunset-watching experience in Santorini!
Highlights
- Explore the most-photographed village in Santorini
- Walk along the narrow alleys of Oia & enjoy the unique Cycladic architecture
- Marvel at the most breathtaking volcano & caldera views
- Introduce yourself to the naval history of Greece at the Maritime Museum
- Watch the sunset from the most scenic spot in Oia, the Venetian Castle
Includes
- Guide
- Maritime Museum entrance fee (4€ pp)
- Transfers
- Pick up/Drop off
Discover the unique beauty of Santorini on an unforgettable adventure in nature!
There’s so much more in Santorini than breathtaking sunsets and luxurious caldera resorts. This tour will let you see and experience the natural beauty of Santorini through fun activities that will boost your adrenaline! In the afternoon, an experienced local guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the old path that connects the two most popular villages in Santorini: Fira and Oia.
Following this path, you’ll pass by Imerovigli, a picturesque village that boasts traditional Cycladic architecture, St. Nicolas monastery, and Prophet Elias, a chapel built on a mountaintop, offering panoramic views of the island and the sea. There, you’ll take a break to enjoy a well-deserved picnic with the group and take in the beautiful scenery.
After the picnic, it’s time to continue the hike! As you hike down the path, you’ll catch some stunning vistas of the Santorini volcano on Thirassia island and marvel at the panoramic views of the surrounding whitewashed villages. Soon, the sun will set and you will be in the middle of an enthralling color feast! Can you think of a better way to end your hiking adventure?
Highlights
- Explore Santorini off the beaten tourist trail
- Hike from Fira to Oia, following the most beautiful hiking path in Santorini
- Marvel at breathtaking caldera and sea views from the top of a mountain
- Watch the glorious Santorini sunset in the heart of nature away from the crowds
Includes
- Pick-up/Drop off
- English speaking guide
- Walking sticks
- Picnic
Discover the most iconic locations in Santorini and marvel at the show-stopping sunset from Oia!
This tour will start with a stroll through the quaint cobbled alleys of Firostefani village, where you’ll have the chance to take the most beautiful photos and marvel at the breathtaking view. Then, you’ll move to the caldera-hanging Imerovigli village. Whilst in Imerovigli, you’re going to savor the incredible views and admire Skaros rock, a natural landmark located in front of the village.
Finally, there couldn't be a better way to end this tour than watching the sunset from Oia, the most popular village in Santorini. After a stroll through the whitewashed cobbled streets of Oia, you’re going to watch the sun dipping into the horizon painting the caldera all the shades of orange, pink, and purple -it's an otherworldly spectacle!
Highlights
- Discover the most iconic locations in Santorini
- Explore the most beautiful caldera villages in Santorini: Imerovigli, Firostefani, and Oia
- Marvel at the stunning Cycladic architecture & blue-domed churches of Santorini
- Watch one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world in Oia
Includes
- English, Spanish or, French speaking guide
- Pick-up/Drop off
- Food and drinks
- Lunch or dinner
Escape the crowds and marvel at the enthralling Santorini sunset from the sea!
This sunset tour starts at Mesa Pigadia, a black sand beach that lies on the island’s south coast. From there, you’ll hop on a kayak and paddle through the sunset along Santorini's rugged coastline. Along the way, you’ll pass from the white cliffs of the White Beach and the red rock formations of the volcanic Red Beach. From there, you’ll head to Kampia Beach, where you’ll enjoy a 45-minute break surrounded by lunar white cliffs. From one adventure to another, the next activity of this tour will be snorkelling.
Joined by a snorkelling expert, you’ll explore the underwater world of Santorini and discover some Aegean marine species, including sea urchins, starfish, and even sea turtles! After exploring the seabed of Santorini, you’ll stop at a traditional family-run tavern for a breather and a snack before hopping on your kayak.
The next stops of this sunset tour will be the Black Mountain and Akrotiri Lighthouse, a 19th-century lighthouse that overlooks the Aegean Sea and serves as a guiding light for sea vessels. Akrotiri Lighthouse is also a wonderful sunset-watching spot, so you’ll watch the sunset here before paddling back to Mesa Pigadia. There, you’ll end the day the most delicious way: savouring an authentic Greek feast at a traditional taverna and raising a toast to the wonderful day!
Note: Bring with you waterproof shoes, a small backpack with bottled water, a hat, sunscreen, a swimsuit, a towel, and dry clothes.
Highlights
- Go kayaking along the volcanic Santorini caldera
- Visit some of the beautiful beaches in Santorini: Red beach, White beach, and Kampia beach
- Explore the seabed of Santorini guided by a snorkelling expert
- Watch the breathtaking Santorini sunset at Akrotiri Lighthouse
- Savour an authentic Greek feast at a traditional taverna
Includes
- Pick-up/Drop off
- Lunch
- BCU Certified Guide
- Kayak & Snorkel equipment
- Kayak fitting and briefing before tour starts
The best beaches in Santorini
Perissa beach in Santorini
Red beach
Red beach is probably the most famous beach in Santorini. Located in the Akrotiri area, this beautiful beach stands out for its red volcanic landscape! It is nestled in a cove protected from the winds and insulated by red cliffs. On the beach, you’ll find umbrellas and loungers provided by the seaside cafes and tavernas. You can access Red beach by car (it’s a 20-minute drive away from Fira) or by boat.
Kamari beach
Kamari is a popular organized beach in Santorini. This Blue-Flag-awarded beach is located in the southern part of the island, in Kamari village, six kilometers away from Fira. Kamari beach is pebbled with clean water and is particularly popular with families. On the beach, you’ll find umbrellas and sunbeds, as well as water sports facilities and cafes/restaurants.
Perissa
Perissa is a busy and family-friendly beach located 6 kilometers southeast of Fira. It is an organized beach with sunbeds and umbrellas, but you can find some quiet shady spots under the trees. On the beach, you’ll also find cafes, restaurants, and water sports facilities. The trademark of Perissa is an enormous rock that emerges from the water, called Mesa Vouno.
Monolithos
Monolithos is a volcanic black sand beach with shallow waters, ideal for kids. Although it lies close to the busy Kamari, Monolithos doesn’t get overcrowded, so it’s a great alternative to other bustling beaches. On the beach, you’ll find some facilities, like a playground and a basketball court.
The best restaurants in Santorini
Argo
Argo restaurant has a majestic setting, as it is perched on the edge of the caldera in Fira. Thanks to its location, it offers the most breathtaking sunset views! Using the freshest locally-sourced ingredients, Argo creates farm-to-table dishes that marry traditional with contemporary. From the renowned Greek salad and fried calamari to the seafood pasta and hearty meat dishes, everything is scrumptious!
Info: Thera 847 00, Santorini, Tel: +302286022594
Mr. E
Housed in the ISTORIA Hotel in the eastern part of the island, away from the hustle and bustle of Oia and Fira, Mr. E is a seaside gastronomical retreat! This restaurant boasts a relaxing setting, thanks to its location by the sea and the lunar surroundings, which upgrade the dining experience. Using seasonal ingredients that come straight from the land of Santorini, Mr. E‘s chef Alexandros Tsiotinis creates delicious Mediterranean dishes with a modern twist.
Info: Fira, Thira 847 00, Tel: +302286028700
Selene Restaurant
Selene is a gourmet restaurant led by the well-known Michelin-starred chef, Ettore Botrini. Housed in a former 18th-century Catholic monastery, this restaurant boasts a refined atmosphere and emits elegant charm that matches perfectly the gastronomical experience it offers. At Selene Restaurant, you’ll taste delicious dishes that marry tradition with creativity, as well as a wide selection of fine wines from all over the world.
Info: Fira town, Thira Old catholic monastery, Thira 847 00, Tel: +302286022249
FAQs: How to plan the perfect honeymoon to Santorini
The truth is that Santorini is one of the most expensive islands in Greece. Caldera hotels in Santorini are expensive, but they're totally worth it. Also your honeymoon is definitely the time to splurge on a luxurious hotel, romantic activities, candlelit dinners, and cruises!
Greece is a European city and a part of the Schengen Agreement. So, if you’re a European citizen or citizen of a country member of the Schengen Agreement, you only need a Passport or an Identity Card to enter the country. If you’re a citizen of a country that is neither European nor a member of the Schengen Agreement, you need a visa to visit Greece.
Santorini is a safe island, but you should always take precautions. For example, you should keep in mind that there is a risk of accidents due to the island’s rocky landscape, so you should stay away from the cliffs. You should also keep an eye on your belongings, especially when you are in crowded places like Oia and Fira. Another risk in Santorini is car accidents, so you should always keep your mind on the road and never drive drunk.
Most shops in Santorini operate seasonally, meaning they are open only during the touristic season, from April to October. During this period, the shops are open every day, from 10 am to 10 pm or until midnight.
Santorini is a Greek island located in the southeast part of the Aegean sea. It belongs to the Cyclades island complex, like other popular Greek islands such as Mykonos, Paros, and Ios. It lies 220 km away from Athens (Rafina) which means it takes 5 to 8 hours to reach it by ferry from Athens. As for the distance from the nearby islands, Santorini is located 120 km away from Mykonos, 80 km away from Paros, and 40 km away from Ios.
Some of the best things to do in Santorini are to watch the sunset in Oia, explore the volcano, go on a romantic boat tour around Santorini, partake in a wine tasting session, and hike from Fira to Oia.
Santorini seems like a magical place for honeymooners, right? If you’re planning on going to Santorini for your honeymoon, don’t let the planning process stress you out! Keep our guide at hand and just ENJOY this once-in-a-lifetime experience with your spouse!
Should you have any questions about Santorini honeymoon, ask away in the comments section!
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