Here’s your essential guide to honeymooning in Santorini, the Cycladic gem that draws couples from around the globe. With its breathtaking landscapes and the deep blue Aegean Sea as a backdrop, Santorini is one of the world’s most romantic destinations.
Arriving in Santorini by boat, a bewitching panorama of powder-dusted cornices between sea and sky, veiled in romance and escapism, slowly reveals itself. Clusters of sugarcoated cave houses almost tumble down the lava-encrusted cliffs to greet you.
Arriving by air is equally enchanting, as this crescent moon-shaped isle arcs around its 400 metre-deep cobalt caldera. This ancient chasm swallowed the sea when the island’s core collapsed after the colossal volcanic explosion of 1660 BC.
The Best Time to Visit Santorini
The most delightful times to experience Santorini are from April to May and September to October—the shoulder seasons. Visitors can enjoy mild, inviting weather during these times while avoiding the larger summer crowds and a more peaceful atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy the character of the streets and dine reasonably stress-free in restaurants.
Like much of the Mediterranean, the peak tourist season runs from June to September, and you can be guaranteed that the island’s appeal attracts a significant influx of travellers at this time, so if you plan to travel then, you will want to book your accommodations and dining reservations four to eight months in advance.
Many popular resorts close their doors during the colder, wetter months from November to April.
Optimal Weather: The warmest months are from June to September, while the shoulder seasons run from April to June and September to November. Expect the rainy season to last from November through April.
Festival Highlights: The Ifestia Festival, also known as the Greek Volcano Festival, takes place in August, while the International Music Festival in Fira occurs in September. Easter (with a date that varies each year) and the Feast of the Holy Virgin are significant local religious events, featuring candlelit processions throughout Santorini’s villages.
Romantic Things to Do in Santorini on Your Honeymoon
Lose yourselves in the labyrinthine lanes of Santorini’s cliff-top villages; Fira is for the courting, Oia is for the proposing, and Imerovigli is for the honeymooning. Find hand-painted cushions, bags and clothing at Aegean Designs in Firostefani. Get sparkly on Ypapantis Street in Fira’s gold quarter. And fall for Oia, the sexy supermodel of Greek island architecture, tiered with curves, clefts and cleavages. Stroll her marble laneways at sunset, when they become bathed in molten gold.
The three-hour cliff-top walk that etches the caldera rim between Fira and Oia is secluded and fragrant. Along this inspiring passageway, above a bathtub of cruise ships, pass other hand-in-hand lovers, locals carrying baskets of freshly-picked tomatoes, and tiny chapels peeping down the sheer, pumice-stone cliffs.
Traditional wooden ships sail you to the islet of Nea Kameni. On this active volcano, layered with time, tread the rubbly paths around sulphur-emitting craters. At the 127 metre-high summit, spread your rug-for-two on the thermal ground, and absorb neighbouring Palea Kamini, Thirassia and dazzling Santorini.
COCKTAILS, COFFEES AND CANOODLES
At barrel-vaulted Meteor Cocktail Café in Oia, chink your umbrella-garlanded glasses. Sip espresso martinis in this pint-sized, once-upon-a-time art gallery, beneath lampshades crafted by famed Athens glassblower, Nikos Troulinos. Original paintings grace the pastel pink, blue and lemon watercolour interiors, while bougainvillea dresses the red ochre walls of the outdoor terrace, as atmospheric jazz drifts through the balmy breeze.
Also caldera-clasping is Palia Kameni Bar in Fira, with its overhanging balcony 220 metres above the Aegean. Choose cocktails from wooden menus as the salty air dances around ornate wrought-iron balustrades. The cobbled floor and terracotta statue of a Greek goddess make this miniature bar impossibly romantic.
At Korfos Bay, on the islet of Thirassia (population just 300), Windmill Café serves homemade baklava and traditional briki coffee beneath its picture-postcard sails. If you survive a briki coffee’s intense flavour, remember to pour the sediments into your saucer. Tasseography (fortune-telling) is a Greek tradition with briki grounds.
Related Article: The Ultimate Honeymoon Guide to Mykonos
YAMAS!
Santorini’s fertile volcanic soil harvests unrivalled fava beans, capers, baby tomatoes and white eggplant. Sample it all at Mama Thira Taverna, elevated above Firostefani’s laneways. Toast your partner with “Yamas!” as you complement your meze with Santorini’s sweet Vinsanto wine. The taverna’s dollhouse-like windows, in azure and white, perfectly capture the unforgettable sunset.
For discerning tastebuds seeking fine fish roe, head to 1800 Restaurant in Oia. This restored 19th-century mansion belonged to the famous ship-owner Captain Sarris. Dine alongside original walnut sofas, a bedframe and chest belonging to the captain, and lithographs from the period. Or feast upstairs on the intimate jasmine-festooned roof terrace
DISCOVER THE CHARM OF AMMOUDI BAY
Nestled along the rugged, rust-red cliffs of Santorini, Ammoudi Bay is reached by a scenic descent of 214 steps from Oia’s castle, a prime spot for sunset views. The journey down leads you to a charming port lined with vibrant taverns – and the walk down itself offers stunning vistas. You’ll be greetd by the quintessential image of the Greek islands—think octopuses swaying in the breeze and open-air fish taverns, with the famous Ammoudi Fish Tavern being a standout. Linger for a while, enjoy freshly prepared ceviche, perfectly grilled fish, and traditional dishes like taramosalata, all while soaking in the stunning seaside atmosphere
ANCIENT THIRA
Join the artists and poets at Ancient Thira, built upon the lofty slopes of the 380 metre-high Mesa Vouno. Inhabited during the 9th century BC, Ancient Thira was excavated only in 1902, and is known as ‘the Pompeii of the Aegean’. Meander through this mountainous town’s stone-paved paths, alongside crumbled Byzantine churches, roman baths, temples, private residences and a sea-facing amphitheatre. Find the tree-shaded bench and ponder the Minoan civilisation that was extinguished by the 1660 BC explosion.
Akrotiri
Akrotiri is one of Europe’s most important archaeological sites, preserved much like Pompeii following Santorini’s volcanic eruption. Curiously, no human remains have ever been uncovered here. A guided tour with a licensed expert will provide fascinating insights into daily life in this advanced Bronze Age settlement. Many of the key discoveries from the excavation can be seen at the Museum of Prehistoric Thira in Fira.
SUNSET-CRUISING
For sea, salt and sulphur, board the luxurious Ocean Voyager 74. Sail the length of Santorini before swimming off Kokkini Paralia (Red Beach). On-board chefs prepare a succulent barbecue when mooring in the sheltered cove off Aspri Paralia (White Beach). Your next port of call is the hot springs by the islet of Palea Kameni. Smooch in its healing lime-green mineral waters by a miniature whitewashed chapel as mountain goats gaze down from precipitous peaks. The final showdown catches Santorini’s Helios sinking into the Aegean.With camera in one hand and champagne glass in the other, work out for yourself if this is (as is believed) the lost kingdom of Atlantis.
EXPLORE INLAND VILLAGES
While tourists are captivated by the stunning cliffside views, the inland villages of Santorini offer a quieter glimpse into island life. Start your journey in the picturesque village of Pyrgos, where whitewashed alleys wind around a historic 16th-century castle, revealing breathtaking vistas across the landscape. In Emporio, explore the fortified Byzantine citadel and take a moment to light a candle in Palia Panagia, one of the island’s oldest churches.
Santorini Stays: Top Accommodation Picks for Couples
PEGASUS SUITES
The island’s highest village, at 300 metres, is Imerovigli, known as ‘the balcony of Santorini’. Retreat to the exquisite hideaways at romantic Pegasus Suites. Each is uniquely designed, with private terrace and caldera- viewing Jacuzzi, and features dream-inducing circular beds on stone bases. The onsite spa offers chocolate oil massages and reflexology with honey, so prepare – you might may wake up in this fairytale island looking just like Aphrodite and Adonis!
Check for the best rates and availability at Pegasus Suites here.
PERIVOLAS
A regular fixture on the Conde Nast Hot Lists (USA & UK) the stylish adults-only Perivolas is poised cliffside in Oia. Originally designed as a family home, the property still carries a plush ‘private residence’ feel–although the Perivolas Infinity Pool has an international flavour, having graced many a magazine cover with its magnificent panoramic views. Try the Perivolas Suite, a romantic hideaway with curved whitewashed walls, dashes of vivid mauve and pink, your own private swimming pool, and a bathroom with private steam room. Ideal for honeymooners or lovestruck travellers. Rates include full buffet breakfast.
Check for the best rates and availability at Perivolas here.
NOŪS SANTORINI
For a romantic getaway in Santorini, look no further than Nous in the village of Mesaria. This hotel offers a perfect balance of seclusion and adventure, with unique architecture and design that blends seamlessly into the lush landscape. With private pools, Jacuzzis, gardens, and a meditative fire pit, relaxation and well-being are at the forefront of your stay. The hotel’s 121 spacious rooms and bungalows are set in extensive private gardens, with many featuring their own pools. The colour palette and layout take inspiration from Santorini’s famous beaches and ancient villages, while materials and artworks pay homage to the island’s heritage. Book an east-facing bungalow or pool suite for the best views to catch the stunning sunrise. And make sure to take advantage of the hotel’s spa, which is dedicated to the Greek principle of Ef Zin for ultimate rejuvenation.
Check for the best rates and availability at NOŪS here.
GRACE HOTEL, AUBERGE RESORTS COLLECTION
Set before the iconic Skaros Rock, Grace Hotel, part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, is a haven of privacy—perfect for honeymooners. Rooms are spread across the property for seclusion, while the ultra-private Infinity Suites feature plunge pools and loungers ideal for couples to relax in luxury. The minimalist interiors, with warm American walnut accents, create a calming ambience, and volcanic stone funnels natural light, keeping the spaces cool and serene.
Start your day with a Champagne breakfast at Varoulko Santorini, where a six-course menu and Michelin-starred Chef Lefteris Lazarou’s creations delight, all with breathtaking caldera views. For honeymooners, Grace Hotel offers not only unrivalled beauty but a tranquil escape crafted for romance.
Check for the best rates and availability at Grace Hotel Auberge Collection here.
IKES TRADITIONAL HOUSES
A boutique hotel with a charming range of luxury accommodation, Ikies is Santorini sublime, located in the picturesque village of Oia. The Winemaker’s House features a truly secluded terrace with uninterrupted, cinematic views of the Aegean. The private hot-tub with its spacious deck and the terrace futon offer endless hours of outdoors relaxation and romance. As part of this honeymoon suite experience, champagne breakfast is offered on the private terrace every morning, as well as evening cocktails.
Check for the best rates and availability at Ikies Suites here.
The H4C editors independently select the best places to stay for couples and aim to source the best rates for you. We may earn a small affiliate commission if you make a purchase through our links.
SANTORINI HONEYMOON FACT FILE
HOW TO GET TO SANTORINI
Santorini is located in the southern part of the Aegean Sea in Greece. To get there, the most convenient option is to fly from Athens, which has direct flights from the USA, UK, and Canada. The airport code for Athens International Airport is ATH, while the code for Santorini Airport is JTR.
Ferries are also available to connect Santorini with other islands in Greece.SeaJets provides daily ferries and speedboats to commute between Santorini and Mykonos. Minoan Lines offers daily ferries from Heraklion Port to travel to Santorini from Crete and vice versa. Blue Star Ferries also offers daily ferries to help you reach Santorini from Paros or Naxos and vice versa. Hellenic Seaways and SeaJets provide daily ferries with high-speed boats to commute between Santorini and Ios. Check Ferry timetables.
GETTING AROUND:
Bus services are generally good on the islands, though many visitors choose to hire a car.
CURRENCY AND EXCHANGE RATE:
Greece uses the Euro. Travellers cheques in Euros are accepted in most island banks, but there can sometimes be a hefty administration fee per cheque (so buy cheques in large denominations). ATMs are located on most islands, but enquire about overseas transaction charges with your bank before leaving.
VISAS
As you plan your romantic getaway to Santorini, you should know the upcoming travel requirements for entry into Greece. Starting in 2025, citizens from countries that currently enjoy visa-free access, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, must obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) before their trip.
This straightforward online application simplifies entry into the Schengen Area, allowing you to enjoy multiple trips to Santorini and other beautiful European destinations for three years—no need to apply for a visa each time. Be sure to stay informed about any updates and prepare in advance.
Related: Discover more incredibly romantic Greece destinations for two with these Unforgettable Romantic Holiday Ideas for Greece
