Best Island Hopping Day Trips from Santorini, Greece

Enticed by its picturesque white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches, over 2 million visitors a year wander the cobblestone streets of Santorini—stopping at a Greek taverna here and popping into a craft shop there. 

And while that sounds dreamy, you don’t have to stop there! 

Why not take a few day trips from Santorini to other Greek islands and see what differences you can spot? You can hop over to the closest island in less than 35 minutes! 

It’s too irresistible to say no, right?

We’ve compiled a list of the best day trips in and from Santorini to help you have a memorable trip in Greece.

Best Day Trips from Santorini

This brilliant Greek Island has plenty to offer. Still, it’s also pretty cool seeing what life is like on other islands close to Santorini—how the architecture differs, getting to try delicious specialties and meeting more locals. 

Here are some of the best islands to visit from Santorini:

Mykonos 

Santorini and Mykonos have become a dynamic duo. You don’t often hear one mentioned without the other. When you’re that close, it would be rude to visit one but not the other. 

It’s said there are two sides to Mykonos. 

The one you mainly see on social media showcasing the glitz and glamor. And the quaint and authentic side is filled with cobblestone streets, rolling countryside and windmills. 

Visit as a day trip from Santorini to Mykonos and get a taste of both. Spend the day exploring white-washed towns and relaxing on some of the best beaches in Greece before dining in a top-notch restaurant overlooking the sea. 

Check out how to get from Santorini to Mykonos.

Ios 

Ios is the nearest island to Santorini. You can get there by ferry in 35 minutes. 

One of the most fascinating things about the islands is that every single one has its own charm and attracts different kinds of people. Santorini attracts visitors who can splash the cash, but Ios calls for budget travelers in Greece looking for a fun and cheap night out.

That’s not all the island has to offer. It has a more tranquil side, with traditional villages like Mangari and Paleokastro offering a glimpse at authentic island life.

Pro tip: If you’re on a budget, take the 1-hour ferry. It’s less than half the price of the fastest ship. 

Here’s how to get from Santorini to Ios for a day trip.

Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni 

Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni are volcanic islands in the Santorini caldera. Visiting these two islands is one of the most popular day trips from Santorini.

Boat trips start from as little as €30 ($33) and include a stop at the island of Thirasia (more on that below). The trips are packed with adventure—hike the volcano’s rim on Nea Kameni, splash about in the hot springs heated by the volcano’s thermal energy, and explore fascinating volcanic landscapes. 

Pro tip: Try to find a boat tour that includes sunset. Sailing back with views of Santorini basked in a golden glow is an unforgettable sight. 

Thirasia

Thirasia is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor. And that’s precisely why you should take a day trip from Santorini. It allows you to get a more authentic glimpse at local life on Greek Islands. 

Grab a bite at a local taverna and try some of the island’s specialties, such as fava, a puree of split peas, and tomato keftedes—tasty tomato fritters. Once you’re full of delicious Greek food, wander the alleyways of the capital, Manolas, admiring the stunning views of the Aegean Sea. 

Plenty of Santorini island tours offer day trips to Thirasia, Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni in one.

Paros

Paros feels like a more laid-back Santorini. 

It still has the white-washed buildings, blue-domed rooftops and turquoise waters; there are just fewer people. So, if you need a break from the hordes of people, island hop from Santorini to Paros. 

Most ferries arrive in Parikia, the island’s main port and capital city. Wander the picturesque paved alleys, relax in a cafe, and explore The Church of Panagia Ekatontapyliani.

Hop in the car for 20 minutes and visit Naoussa. Once a fishing village, it is now the trendiest town on the island. Here you’ll find a lot of luxury boutiques and delicious restaurants. 

Pro tip: The ferry ride is between 2 to 3.5 hours. Take the earliest one so you’ve got enough time. And the latest one on the way back.

Find out how to get from Santorini to Paros.

Naxos 

Ever harnessed the power of the wind to glide across the sea? 

Naxos’ windy climate makes it the perfect place to try sailing, windsurfing or kitesurfing. 

Not your speed? 

Then you could watch others do it from your spot on the white powdery sand. Grab a book, relax or enjoy a bite from one of the tasty beach restaurants. 

If you can spend the night in Naxos, wake up before the sun gets too hot, and take on Mount Zas. It’s the highest mountain in the Cyclades, standing 1,004 meters (3,294 ft) tall.

Read about how to get from Santorini to Naxos.

Pro tip: The fastest ferry can get you there in 1.5 hours, leaving plenty of time to explore Naxos as a day trip.

Crete

Fast ferries connect Santorini to Heraklion, the capital of Crete, in under 2 hours, meaning a day trip to Crete from Santorini is a great way to keep exploring. 

Crete is the largest Greek Island, and with its size comes a plethora of things to keep you busy. 

If you’re a history fanatic, you’ll love this island. It was once home to the Minoan civilization that left behind countless ruins and temples to explore and transport yourself back in time. 

And when you need a break from exploring, go for a refreshing dip at the famous pink beach of Elafonissi. 

Consider making it a multi-day trip so you can spend a day hiking Samaria Gorge, one of Greece’s most spectacular national parks.  

Folegandros

Being able to hop over to another island in only 50 minutes sounds too good to resist. 

Despite being one of the islands closest to Santorini, Folegandros has remained a hidden gem.

The main village, Chora, is just as picture-perfect as Santorini, with its narrow cobblestone streets, white-washed houses and vibrant bougainvillea. But getting a picture without any photobombers will be a million times easier!

Spend your time on the island relaxing on Katergo, a stunning and untouched beach that’s only accessible by boat or by foot. 

Check out how to get from Santorini to Folegandros.

Anafi 

Most people haven’t heard of the island of Anafi, which makes it even more tempting to visit. You can reach this island in just over an hour. 

A day trip from Santorini to Anafi is a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. The majority of this small island has been left untouched, leaving a rugged and wild, exciting landscape to explore. 

If hiking in the Greek heat is too much, enjoy the island’s quiet sandy beaches and make the most of the incredible hospitality of the island—one of the perks of visiting lesser-known destinations. 

You’ll feel so relaxed after visiting that you might not want to go back!

Fun Day Trips in Santorini

Santorini is surrounded by fascinating islands to explore, but there are also many things to do without leaving the island. 

If you only have one day in Santorini, it’s going to be tight, but here are some must-see places:

Oia

Oia is one of the most popular towns where many visitors stay. If your accommodation isn’t based here, a day trip is a must!

You might have already seen photos of the island’s iconic sunset spot packed with people. That’s in Oia!

But before sunset, the best way to explore is to simply get lost in its labyrinth of white-washed houses, windmills and beautiful churches. Duck under the brilliant fuchsia bougainvillea that hangs throughout the streets. Check out the cafes, rooftop bars with incredible views, art galleries and craft shops. 

Make sure your phone is fully charged, as the photo opportunities are endless. 

Fira

Fira, also known as Thira, is Santorini’s capital city and the island’s art and culture capital. 

Perched on the edge of the caldera, Fira offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the nearby volcanic islands, Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni.

Here you’ll find some of the island’s best restaurants, cafes, and lively nightlife. 

Akrotiri

A completely different side of Santorini can be seen in Akrotiri. 

Around 1600 BC, this once prosperous Minoan port city was buried beneath an immense amount of ash when a giant volcanic eruption blew the middle right out of the island.

Hidden from the world, the city wasn’t discovered until the 1860s. It’s now a fascinating archaeological site that shows what life was like for the Minoans. 

Entrance costs €12 ($13) for adults.

Megalochori

Magalochori gives a glimpse of what Santorini was like before mass tourism moved in. This charming traditional village showcases the island’s preserved architecture and cultural heritage. 

Visit the traditional cave houses and mansions built with high and thick walls to keep the pirates out. 

If you want a taste of authentic Greek food, stop at one of the tavernas.

Pyrgos

Pyrgos lies in the center of Santorini on the slopes of Mount Profitis Ilias, the highest point on the island. 

Head to Kasteli Castle for panoramic views of the entire island and the sparkling Aegean Sea. It’s also a great sunset spot away from the crowds in Oia. 

If you’re a wine-lover, stop off at the nearby Santo Wines, one of the most famous wineries in the region. They offer wine tours and tastings for €12 ($13), so you can try some of their delicious reds, whites, roses, and dessert wines. 

Red, White and Black Sand Beaches Around the Island

Santorini’s beaches are a highlight…and a bit different. 

Across the island, you’ll find white, red and black sand beaches created from eroded volcanic material and lava fragments. These otherworldly beaches are like none other, and no trip to Santorini is complete without beach-hopping to a few.

Weather in Santorini and its Nearby Islands

The warm and sunny days start to appear towards the end of April, with summer weather coming into full force in June. 

Summer temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) and soar to 35°C (95°F) in July and August when visitor numbers are highest. So, if you don’t like crowds, go in the shoulder months of June and September. 

The weather is still warm in September; just make sure to bring a jumper as the nights begin to get cooler. 

Winter begins in November and lasts until the end of March. The average temperature hovers around 13°C (55°F) during this time. Many tourist restaurants and shops are closed during this time. 

Packing List Essentials for Day Trips from Santorini

Chances are, you will visit the Greek island of Santorini during the summer when the temperatures are high, and the sun is shining. 

Here are a few essential items that you’ll need in your suitcase: 

• Cool, loose-fitting clothes
• Suncream 
• After sun lotion (just in case)
• Hat and sunglasses
• Swimsuit 
• Towel 
• Water shoes
• Underwater camera 
• European plug adaptor
• Euros

Map of Santorini and Surrounding Islands 

Now that you’ve read about all the nearby day trip options, we thought a map would help. Take a peek at just how close all these islands are to Santorini.

How to Get to Santorini

Getting to Santorini is a relatively easy task. The island has an international airport with frequent flights from Athens and many European cities. 

To get there from another Greek Island, you’ll probably need to hop on a ferry. Some popular routes to visit Santorini include Mykonos, Ios and Paros. 

Check out more popular ways to get to and from Santorini.

What Day Trips From Santorini Will You Go On?

Before reading this guide, you might not have expected so many day trip options from Santorini. 

Where do you even begin when choosing which ones to visit? 

Think about factors like how long you want to travel, what you want to see, and if you prefer visiting off-the-beaten-track destinations. That will help narrow it down.

At the end of the day, all the Greek Islands are beautiful and unique, so you can’t really go wrong!

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