Volcanoes & Hot Springs of Santorini
Bite-sized tripDay 1 – Arrival in Santorini
Who isn’t familiar with the iconic images of Santorini? The dazzling white houses topped with vibrant blue roofs set against the backdrop of the crystal-clear sea. Positioned on the rim of a volcanic crater, the villages create a picturesque scene resembling snow-capped mountains as you approach the island by ferry. Nowhere else in Greece do the white villages contrast so beautifully with the azure sky and sea as they do in Santorini.
If you’re arriving from Naxos or Amorgos, the ferry ride takes 1 to 2 hours, while the journey from Athens takes about 5.5 hours. Upon arrival, we’ll arrange a transfer to your hotel. We work with several small-scale hotels across the island, all with comfortable rooms and a refreshing swimming pool. You’ll be able to easily access the beautiful beaches nearby.
Day 2 – Volcano & hot springs tour
This morning enjoy your breakfast on the terrace of your hotel before heading out on a volcano and hot springs tour. You’ll head over to the volcanic island of Nea Kameni, where you’ll walk to the crater’s edge and see the sulfur fumes rising. Afterwards you’ll sail to Palea Kameni, the next island where you can relax in the natural hot springs and mud baths.
Afterwards you can explore more of Santorini, wander through the maze of narrow streets in the town of Thira, sitting atop a 300 metre high crater. Enjoy the view of the caldera and the many colored houses along the steep rock face. Go back in time in Akrotiri (also known as the Pompeii of Greece) where you’ll feel like you are back in ancient times.
Day 3 – Departure from Santorini
It’s time to leave Santorini today and if you fancy somewhere a bit quieter we’d recommend the long sandy beaches on Naxos, for a spot of stand-up paddle boarding or get off the beaten track on the island of Amorgos.
If you are looking for a ready-made island hopping itinerary we have one combining the different islands of the Cyclades full of exciting activities.
The beaches of Santorini
Due to Santorini’s volcanic nature, its beaches are characterised by gray or even black sand, rather than the typical white sand. Despite this, the island boasts beautiful beaches, featuring a waterfront promenade where you can savor local cuisine at one of the tavernas. It’s important to note that the black sand can become quite hot during the summer, so wearing water shoes or sandals is advisable when on the beach.
Some of our favourite beaches on Santorini includes Perissa beach, the longest beach on the island, with beach clubs, sun loungers and parasols and Monolithis beach, the most family-friendly due to its gentle slope into the sea – perfect for a family day at the beach!
Accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we offer the following options
Volcanoes & Hot Springs of Santorini - In Style accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we have an alternative option available for your accommodation. Our In-Style version is something a bit more special or unique but still with lots of local flavour! If you would like to upgrade your accommodation for this bite-size trip select our In Style option below. These hotels are also spread across the island, have family rooms, a swimming pool and balcony.
Volcanoes & Hot Springs of Santorini - Special Stay accommodation
Our special stay in Santorini is a renovated historic cave house in Oia, located in a quiet neighborhood where you can experience authentic Santorini life. The houses are located on a small hill that overlooks the village with spectacular views of the sea, small whitewashed houses, historic churches and vineyards. These cave houses do not have a swimming pool and a limited range of family rooms or rooms with a connecting door so book early to secure your spot.