- Last Updated: October 20, 2023
- Lande
Absolute Paradise in just 3 Days in Santorini with the Family
Our children declared Greece their top family vacation. We explored Santorini, Naxos, and Athens in a 10-day adventure, with this blog focusing on our exciting 3 days in Santorini. Choosing Santorini and Naxos offered diverse island experiences, each with its unique vibe and itinerary. Santorini was lively, while Naxos provided relaxation.
Where to stay
Santorini offers four main areas for accommodation: Oia, Imerovigli, Firostefani, and Fira. We opted for Fira due to its family-friendly vibe and nightlife, but if we return, Imerovigli or Oia would be our choice. Imerovigli has breathtaking views, while Oia is luxurious and more modern. In retrospect, Fira seemed less modern and more touristy. A hotel mishap two weeks before our trip led us to a last-minute three-bedroom private villa. It was spacious but not the cleanest or most modern. However, the private pool was a highlight. The villa was quite distant, and walking in the heat to restaurants was tough. If staying in Fira, I recommend booking closer to town. Nights get dark, and cabs are pricey and scarce, starting at $30.
What to do
Day 1:
We opted for a layover in London before flying to Santorini, a choice I highly recommend. Many choose to fly to Athens and spend a night in Athens before heading to Santorini, but with kids, it can be more challenging for just one night in Athens. Our villa offered complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off, a great convenience considering the limited availability and high cost of cabs on the island. Upon arrival, we had a villa tour, and they thoughtfully stocked our fridge with basic breakfast items and drinks. We wasted no time jumping into the pool, relishing the July heat. We brought along a portable air pump and floaties, which provided endless fun. That evening, we dined at Argo, enjoying both the delicious food and the stunning view, a perfect start to our Santorini adventure. The kids and we were delighted—it truly felt like paradise.
Day 2:
We began the day with a refreshing swim in the pool, and later, I had arranged for a sunset tour from Oia. My kids aren’t usually fans of tours, but I had a hunch they’d love a Catamaran adventure, and I was right—it was pure magic. Our group consisted of a cozy 15 guests, striking the perfect balance between entertainment and privacy. This Luxury Catamaran boasted top-notch technology and ultra-comfortable amenities. They provided a delectable BBQ meal (your choice of pork, chicken skewers, or a vegetarian option, along with seafood, dolmadakia, Greek salad, pasta with red sauce, bread, and tzatziki). As well as unlimited drinks (featuring white wine, beers, soft drinks, and water). It was absolutely delicious. Once we set sail, our tour kicked off with a 30-minute stop at the vibrant Red Beach, known for its distinct crimson sand. We enjoyed leisurely swims and fantastic snorkeling before reboarding the sailboat and making our way to White Beach. This beach showcased equally stunning rock formations and provided another opportunity for excellent swimming and snorkeling. Afterward, we took some time to savor the scenic views from the beach before our sailboat journeyed past the captivating, uninhabited islands of Aspronissi and Akrotiri. The tour’s grand finale awaited us at the hot springs, where we enjoyed 30 minutes of relaxation and had the chance to take a dip in the invigorating springs. It was a truly rejuvenating experience. The tour culminated with a breathtaking and unforgettable sunset. The image of my kids peacefully napping in the sunset is etched in my memory.
Day 3:
We embarked on a scenic hike along the Imerovigli-Firostefani-Fira caldera route, a shorter 1.5-hour alternative to the Oia hike, perfect for the kids with its downhill trail. We began after a relaxing early breakfast at Confetti Dessert Boutique in Santorini to beat the afternoon heat, enjoying breathtaking views and capturing stunning pictures at Skaros Rock. I highly recommend staying in this area for its mesmerizing views from the hotels. During the hike, we explored the 3 Bells of Fira and later pampered our tired feet with a Dr. Fish foot soak. We also seized the opportunity to shop for souvenirs and gifts during our scenic walk. Afterward, we indulged in souvlaki at Lucky’s in town before returning to our villa for a refreshing swim—a well-deserved reward for a memorable day.
What to eat
Argo– Often touted as the best restaurant in Fira, has recently relocated to a more spacious venue within walking distance of our villa. The restaurant is stunning, complete with an open pool for all guests to enjoy. We savored a delectable meat platter paired with their delightful tzatziki sauce.
Lucky’s Souvlaki- A quaint spot for a quick bite, serves souvlaki with a twist—crispy French fries inside! It’s both budget-friendly and offers outdoor seating for a breather before your next adventure.
Cacio e Pepe-While the food was good, it didn’t quite reach greatness but still delivered a satisfying meal. Great if you are looking for a change of pace with some Italian food.
Confetti Dessert Boutique- A charming café, served light and refreshing breakfast options. We all enjoyed our unique breakfast dishes.
Helpful Tips- Absolute Paradise in just 3 days in Santorini with Family
I highly recommend flying directly into Santorini and then stopping by Athens for a night. Our itinerary included a mix of physical activities in Santorini, relaxation in Naxos, and sightseeing in Athens.
I’d suggest considering Imerovigli or Oia for your stay. If you’re seeking nightlife, then Fira is an option, but some websites may make other towns seem lifeless, which isn’t the case. All these places offer plenty of restaurants and bars.
Finding cabs can be challenging and costly, so aim to book accommodations closer to town, enabling convenient walks to restaurants and shops.
For restaurant reservations, I sent them emails in advance, and they promptly replied.
We took a ferry to Naxos, pre-booking it through Ferry Hopper. Be sure to check in on the app at least 48 hours to 2 hours before your scheduled time to avoid per-ticket charges—I learned this the hard way after missing the check-in window. In reality, arriving 30 minutes before departure should suffice. Our villa dropped us off early, leading us to wait at a café on site. I suggest opting for one of the quicker jets. Boarding the ferry can be a tad overwhelming, with a sea of people and no shade from the sun while waiting outside. The ferry has the capacity to accommodate a vast number of passengers. Once they begin boarding, they efficiently move to depart from the port quickly. There are designated sections for luggage corresponding to your destination. On the ferry, there are food options available, and you can take a stroll around.
If possible, consider waiting to buy souvenirs in Athens, as they tend to be more affordable there.
I highly recommend this tour, but it sells out quickly. Book now to secure your spot, and you can choose to pay closer to the date of the trip.
Remember, July can get scorching, so don’t forget your hat. Be sure to check out my other recommendations for international trips and essential pool items too.