Quick Snapshots

Best time to visit: Late spring (May–June) or early fall (September–October).
How long to stay: 2–3 nights.
Getting around: Taxis, pre-booked rides, or rentals (car, ATV, buggy).
Famous for: Caldera views, blue-domed churches, dramatic volcanic beaches,
unforgettable sunsets.

First Impressions

Santorini is one of those destinations that feels like stepping into a postcard.
From its volcanic cliffs and blue-domed churches to its breathtaking sunsets,
the island combines romance, charm, and raw natural beauty. Even with just
two nights and three days, every moment here felt like a dream brought to life.

Arriving by ferry was an experience in itself. The port sits at the bottom of
towering cliffs, and as we drove up the winding roads, the caldera revealed
itself in all its glory. Unlike other crowded destinations, Santorini in June 2022
still felt calm and relaxed, giving us the space to truly enjoy it.

Itinerary

Day 1. Arrival & relax.

Arriving in Santorini by ferry felt surreal. We had arranged a transfer in advance from the port to our villa — something I highly recommend. The drive up the steep winding roads revealed the first dramatic views of the caldera, a
preview of the magic to come.
Relax at Villas Lukas: Our villa in Imerovigli set the tone for our stay. With a private pool and terrace overlooking the endless blue of the Aegean, we spent the afternoon unwinding, sipping drinks, and soaking in the scenery.
Stroll through Imerovigli: Often called the ‘balcony of Santorini,’ Imerovigli is known for its peaceful atmosphere and spectacular views. Narrow paths wound past whitewashed homes with blue shutters, and every turn revealed another
postcard-perfect panorama of the caldera.

Sunset Dinner: We ended our first day with dinner at a cliffside restaurant. Watching the sun dip below the horizon as the sky shifted from orange to purple felt like a private show — the kind of memory Santorini is famous for.

Day 2. Red beach adventure.

We began the day with a taxi ride to the iconic Red Beach, one of Santorini’s most striking natural wonders. A short but rocky hike led us to the shore, where dramatic red cliffs towered above turquoise water. Unlike typical beaches, Santorini’s volcanic character gave this place a raw, otherworldly beauty.
Lunch at Seaside Santorini: After the hike, we rewarded ourselves with a long lunch at Seaside Santorini, a restaurant with tables right on the sand. The sound of the waves, attentive service, and dishes filled with fresh seafood made it a highlight of the trip. With private beach access, it was the perfect mix
of relaxation and indulgence.
Evening at the Villa: Back at Villas Lukas, we spent the evening poolside, savoring the views of the caldera with a glass of wine in hand. It was a moment of pure stillness and luxury — Santorini at its best.

Day 3. Morning in Fira & departure

Morning in Fira: On our last day, we explored Fira, Santorini’s lively capital. The town’s cobblestone alleys led us past shops selling jewelry, art, and souvenirs, while bougainvillea flowers spilled over whitewashed walls. From cliffside viewpoints,
we admired sweeping panoramas of the caldera, and the famous blue-domed church offered a final photo opportunity. The town buzzed with energy, the perfect contrast to the tranquility of Imerovigli.

Departure: Leaving Santorini was bittersweet, but the memories of sunsets, volcanic beaches, and cliffside walks made even a short stay feel unforgettable.

Santorini is romantic yet laid-back, luxurious yet simple. It’s a place where you can dress up for a rooftop dinner or simply watch the sun set with a glass of wine in hand. Every view feels cinematic, making the island perfect for
travelers seeking beauty and calm.

Pre-book transfers from the port to save time and avoid stress.
Wear comfortable shoes; the streets are steep, cobblestoned, and sometimes
slippery.
Beaches are volcanic, so expect pebbles and rocks rather than soft sand.
Water shoes are helpful. Visit in shoulder season (May–June or September–
October) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.

Best View: Sunset from Imerovigli — breathtaking and peaceful. Hidden Gem: Seaside Santorini restaurant — luxury by the sea without the crowds.
Photo Spot: The blue-domed church in Fira with the Aegean as backdrop

Villas Lukas — A villa perched on the cliffs of Imerovigli, featuring a private pool
and terrace overlooking the Aegean. The views were unmatched, and it was
the perfect spot to relax between adventures. Check availability on Expedia:

Seaside Santorini — Tables on the sand, delicious seafood, and excellent
service made this a standout experience.
Cliffside restaurants in Imerovigli and Fira also offer incredible sunset dining —
reservations recommended during peak season.

Be cautious on cliffside paths — especially during crowded sunsets. Always wear helmets if renting an ATV or buggy; roads are narrow and winding. Bring sun protection — hats, sunscreen, and water are essential.
Watch your belongings in busy areas like Fira, especially in peak season.

Final Thoughts

Santorini is truly unforgettable. Even in just a few days, we experienced its romantic sunsets, volcanic landscapes, and lively capital. It’s an island that combines beauty, history, and magic at every turn.

If you enjoyed this story, follow me on Instagram @vistabyilse for more travel reels, hidden gems, and behind the scene adventures.

Note; these recommendations are based on my personal experiences during my trip. Prices,
opening hours and conditions may change, so always check official websites or local sources
before your visit. Don’t forget to stay aware of safety guidelines. Local regulations, and seasonal
weather when planning your trip.
Connect with me on Instagram @vistabyilse I’d love to hear about your Santorini experience!