Santorini is arguably the most romantic and idyllic Greek island for honeymooners, weddings and couple’s holidays. It has picturesque white roofed houses overlooking the ocean that are famous worldwide and feature all over Instagram and Pinterest. Surprise your partner with one or many of our ideas for romantic things to do in Santorini. Each offers something unique for a romantic getaway.
1. Watch the Oia Sunset
The sunset view from the hilltop of Oia is truly unmissable. Find a rooftop table spot in an Oia restaurant or bar 30 minutes before sunset and gaze in awe at the bright orange horizon, casting a glow over the rows of white buildings. The Oia sunset is naturally one of the most romantic things to do in Santorini and is a great holiday photo opportunity. Be sure to reserve a table or arrive early as it can get very busy. The old Oia Castle is another excellent spot to watch the sunset if you’d prefer to have dinner later.
2. Wine tasting on the terraces
The island is host to numerous wineries each offering a wine tasting session on the terraced balconies overlooking the ocean. An idyllic setting for wine lovers, sit across from your significant other as you sample locally produced whites and reds with breath-taking views. It’s also a great way to meet other couples if you partake in a group tour. We recommend Santo Winery in the Pyrgos area. It has some of the most romantic views on the island and the cheese and snacks are a welcomed added touch.
3. Hike the centre of the island
This may not be everyone’s ideal activity on a relaxing island holiday, but couples hiking can be a great bonding activity. You get to experience the mountainous nature of the island, capture stunning views and get a spot of exercise after relaxing and indulging on prior days. The main hiking trail in Santorini is Fira in the Oia area. Trek in the morning whilst it’s still relatively cool.
4. Rent a boat
Although there are plenty of boat and yacht tours on the island, renting your own boat can be a great way to spend time together and explore the coastline, taking turns to steer the boat and enjoying each-others company in the open sea. It’s one of the most romantic things to do in Santorini is you like getting adventurous!
There are boats available for all levels of experience so even if you’re a beginner, you’ll find a small engine boat to be ideal. We’d recommend navigating around the coastline, stopping off to snorkel and swim and check out beaches on other areas of the island. View the top rated boat hire companies here.
5. Watch a movie under the stars
Cuddle up with your partner under a blanket and watch a movie under the stars. Kamari Open Air Cinema is a comfortable and reasonably priced outdoor movie theatre where you can watch the latest blockbuster movies alongside luscious green trees and an open sky. It’s well worth travelling here one evening, even if you’re at the other side of the island. We’d recommend arriving early to secure the best seats.
6. Tour the Santorini beaches
Do you like long romantic walks on the beach? It’s kind of cliché but a slow stroll on an exotic beach with your partner is an endearing way to start your evening. Santorini’s beaches have dark, volcanic sand, a different setting compared to the white sands of other Greek islands. Spend your holiday exploring each of the main beaches on the island for unique land formations and views. Some of our favourite beaches include Perissa Beach to the southeast, Kamari Beach just south of the airport and Perivolos that is slightly south of Perissa. Due to the rock structure and shape of the island, you’ll find the best beach on the south east coast.
7. Get a couple’s massage at a Spa
Have you ever had a couple’s spa treatment? It can be a great way to wind down and unleash tension after an active day of island sightseeing. Relax in an ambient environment as you both enjoy the soothing pleasure of a massage side-by-side. Santorini has a small selection of Spas, some of them with excellent reviews. Check them out here. Enjoy a glass of wine on the terrace beforehand to help you relax.
8. Visit the Ancient Thera ruins
Any trip to Santorini should include a little bit of sightseeing and culture. The ancient town of Thera features a collection of ancient ruins with an awe-inspiring backdrop. Hike to the top of the hill and take plenty of pictures of the views whilst wandering the Greek ruins. This can be an excellent spot for some romantic honeymoon or wedding photographs. Make sure your camera battery is charged as these may be the best pictures you’ll take on your trip.
Where to stay in Santorini
Without a doubt, the hillside region of Oia is one of the most romantic spots to stay on the island, simply because of the stunning terrace views and beautiful buildings. Sit back on your balcony and enjoy a glass of wine as the sun goes down. Oia has a selection of luxury hotels and is a popular honeymoon spot on the island. Alternatively, rent a local apartment and cook your own fresh seafood meals on a BBQ before going out for evening cocktails. Oia can be slightly out of the way if you wish to explore a lot of the island but Santorini is small and everything is within a short drive.
See the pictures below to give you an idea of just how pretty this area of Santorini can be. Another romantic place to stay is Fira, situated in the central west of the island.
When to visit
Due to its south Mediterranean location, Santorini is warm and has plenty going on from late April to early November, with the hottest and busiest months being July and August. We’d recommend visiting in April/June or September if you can. You’ll find accommodation and flights to be slightly cheaper in these non-peak travel months and the atmosphere and nightlife is still lively.
We hope we’ve inspired you with plenty of romantic things to do in Santorini for your holiday. It truly is one of the best Greek islands for couples and makes a great wedding or honeymoon spot!
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