When you think of a romantic escape, Santorini’s famous sunsets and Folegandros’ serene, secluded vibes offer the perfect backdrop. These two islands are a dream come true for couples looking to get away from it all—whether you’re exploring the rugged cliffs of Folegandros or enjoying a glass of wine while watching the sun sink into the Aegean Sea in Santorini. This 6-day itinerary is packed with personal experiences, off-the-beaten-path tips, and the most romantic spots you and your partner can explore.
With this guide, you’ll experience both the well-known highlights and the hidden gems of these two incredible islands, perfect for couples who want a balance of adventure, relaxation, and intimate moments.
When to Visit and How to Get Around
The best time to visit Santorini and Folegandros for this romantic itinerary is between late April and early October. During these months, you’ll have the warm, sunny days ideal for beach lounging and sightseeing without the crowds of peak summer. May, June, September, and early October are particularly wonderful, offering great weather and fewer tourists. July and August, though still amazing, can be a bit crowded, especially in Santorini.
To get around the islands, we recommend using ferries between Santorini and Folegandros, and hiring scooters, ATVs, or private drivers on both islands for flexibility. On Folegandros, a more laid-back island, walking through villages and beaches is also common, adding to its charm.
Day 1: Arrival in Santorini – Settle in and Start Your Adventure
You’ve landed in Santorini, and the moment you arrive, it feels like you’ve stepped into a postcard. The whitewashed buildings with blue-domed roofs, cliffside views, and crystal-clear waters are even more breathtaking in person. As you drive toward your hotel in Oia, one of the island’s most famous villages, you can already feel the romance in the air.
Explore Oia’s Charming Streets and Legendary Sunsets
- First Stop: Oia’s Village Walk
Drop your bags at the hotel and take a stroll through Oia’s narrow, winding streets. Hand in hand, explore the cobbled alleys lined with local boutiques, art galleries, and little cafés. This village is undoubtedly Santorini’s most picturesque, and every corner you turn offers new photo opportunities with those classic blue and white buildings. - Watch the Sunset from Oia Castle
As the day winds down, make your way to Oia Castle to watch the famous Santorini sunset. It’s no secret that Oia gets crowded during sunset, but for a more intimate experience, head down to Ammoudi Bay or find a quiet rooftop bar for a private view with a drink in hand. The golden hues reflecting off the Aegean Sea as the sun sets behind the caldera are pure magic. - Where to Stay:
- Myst Boutique Hotel: This small luxury hotel is just far enough from Oia’s hustle and bustle but close enough for those evening walks. With private plunge pools and sea views, it’s ideal for couples.
- Personal Moment:
We wandered through Oia’s quiet streets, avoiding the crowds, and found a small, quiet spot near the castle. Sharing a bottle of local Assyrtiko wine while the sky turned orange and purple, it felt like the rest of the world melted away.
Day 2: Santorini’s Beaches and Vineyards
Now that you’ve experienced the charm of Oia, it’s time to dive into Santorini’s unique landscapes. Known for its volcanic history, the island boasts some truly unforgettable beaches and vineyards that you shouldn’t miss.
Start with a Relaxing Beach Day
- Vlychada Beach:
Head to Vlychada Beach, a more secluded spot with dramatic cliffs and black sand. It’s quieter than the more famous Red Beach, and its unique lunar-like landscape makes it feel like you’re on another planet. Relax here with your partner, far from the crowds, as you swim in the warm waters and enjoy some sunbathing. - Alternative Beaches:
- Perivolos Beach offers more beach bars and restaurants, perfect if you’re in the mood for a lively atmosphere.
- Ammoudi Bay is great for a dip in the sea followed by a fresh seafood meal by the water.
Afternoon: Santorini Wine Tour
Santorini is famous for its volcanic wines, especially its crisp, dry Assyrtiko variety. Spend the afternoon tasting these local flavors at one of the island’s wineries.
- Domaine Sigalas Winery:
Located just outside Oia, Domaine Sigalas is a great place to start your wine-tasting journey. The winery offers beautiful views of the vineyards and the sea, making it the perfect spot to spend a relaxing afternoon. Sip on various wines, including their famous Vinsanto, while you enjoy a light lunch of local cheese, olives, and bread. - Personal Moment:
After our wine tasting at Domaine Sigalas, we decided to wander through the vineyard and watch the sunset from there. The silence, combined with the panoramic view of the vines stretching toward the sea, made it feel like we were the only two people on the island.
Dinner in Imerovigli
For a more intimate dinner, head to Imerovigli, often referred to as the "Balcony to the Aegean." Astra Suites Restaurant offers incredible views, and its Mediterranean cuisine will add to the romantic vibe.
- Where to Stay:
- Myst Boutique Hotel or splurge for a luxurious Canaves Oia Suites, where your cave-style suite comes with a private infinity pool overlooking the caldera.
Day 3: Ferry to Folegandros – Your Secluded Escape
After soaking in the beauty and energy of Santorini, it’s time for a change of pace. Catch the morning ferry to Folegandros, a lesser-known but incredibly romantic island. The ferry ride takes about 2 hours, and as you approach Folegandros, the rugged cliffs and unspoiled coastline signal a different kind of adventure—one where time slows down, and crowds disappear.
First Impressions of Folegandros
Folegandros is small, peaceful, and absolutely gorgeous. Chora, the main village, sits perched on a cliff, and the vibe here is completely different from Santorini. It’s quiet, relaxed, and perfect for couples looking for some alone time.
- Explore Chora’s Streets:
Spend the afternoon wandering the narrow streets of Chora, which are just as charming as Santorini but without the crowds. The squares here are lined with cozy cafés and tavernas serving up Greek classics like moussaka and grilled seafood. - Where to Stay:
- Anemomilos Apartments: This boutique hotel offers spectacular sea views and a serene atmosphere. The infinity pool overlooking the Aegean Sea is a great spot to unwind.
- Personal Moment:
As we wandered through Chora, we found ourselves sitting in a quiet square, sipping iced coffees. It was midday, and the only sound we could hear was the rustling of the wind through the olive trees. It felt like time had slowed down, just for us.
Day 4: Folegandros – Hidden Beaches and the Panagia Hike
Folegandros is known for its secluded beaches and stunning landscapes, perfect for couples who want a bit of adventure without sacrificing the romance.
Morning: Relax at Agali Beach
Start your day at Agali Beach, a short bus ride or walk from Chora. This small, crystal-clear cove is perfect for a relaxed morning of swimming and sunbathing. Unlike Santorini’s busier beaches, Agali feels intimate and laid-back, making it perfect for a couple’s retreat.
- Alternative Beaches:
- If you’re feeling more adventurous, hike to Fira Beach or catch a boat to the remote Katergo Beach, one of the island’s most beautiful but hard-to-reach spots. These beaches offer even more privacy and stunning turquoise waters.
Afternoon: Hike to the Church of Panagia
After a morning by the sea, take a scenic hike up to the Church of Panagia, perched high above Chora. The hike is steep but not too difficult, and the views from the top are absolutely worth it. From here, you’ll have a sweeping panorama of the Aegean Sea and the village below. It’s a perfect spot to watch the sunset or simply sit in silence and enjoy the moment.
- Personal Moment:
Reaching the church, we felt like we were on top of the world. Sitting on the steps, looking out over the sea, it was one of those rare moments where everything else fades away. It was just us and the endless blue horizon.
Day 5: Explore Folegandros – ATV Adventure or Pure Relaxation
By now, you’ve probably fallen in love with Folegandros’ tranquility. Today, you can choose between an adventurous exploration of the island’s hidden corners or a more relaxed day of beach lounging and village hopping.
Option 1: Rent an ATV and Explore the Island
For a sense of adventure, rent an ATV and explore Folegandros’ remote villages and beaches. Drive along the island’s rugged coastline, stopping at places like Ano Meria, a sleepy village where traditional life moves at its own pace. Visit the Folklore Museum for a glimpse into the island’s past or take a drive to the island’s more secluded beaches, like Livadaki Beach, where it’s just you and the waves.
Option 2: Relax and Unwind
If you’d rather take it easy, spend the day relaxing by the pool at your hotel, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Head back to Agali Beach or find a quiet spot in Chora to enjoy a long, lazy lunch at one of the local tavernas.
- Personal Moment:
We hopped on an ATV and headed out to explore Ano Meria, a small village with sweeping views over the sea. We stopped at an olive grove, sat on the edge of the hill, and just watched the waves roll in. There was no rush, no agenda—just pure relaxation.
Evening: Dinner with a View
For your final evening in Folegandros, book a table at Pounda, a cliffside restaurant in Chora with one of the best views on the island. The seafood here is exceptional, and the sunset view is something you’ll remember for years to come.
Day 6: Return to Santorini – One Last Island Memory
It’s time to head back to Santorini, but your romantic adventure isn’t over yet. Catch the morning ferry and return to the island for one last sunset.
Spend the Afternoon in Pyrgos
Instead of heading straight back to Oia, spend your last day in Pyrgos, one of Santorini’s quieter villages. Pyrgos offers a more authentic look at island life, and its hilltop location provides incredible views. Explore the winding streets, visit local art galleries, and stop by a café for a final glass of wine before heading back to your hotel.
Final Sunset in Imerovigli
For a quieter, more intimate last evening, head to Imerovigli for the sunset. Known for its panoramic views over the caldera, this is the perfect place to watch your final sunset on Santorini. Grab a spot at a bar like The Athenian House or find a private viewpoint to soak in the last moments of your trip.
- Where to Stay:
- Grace Hotel Santorini is perfect for a final night of luxury. With private plunge pools and uninterrupted caldera views, it’s the ultimate romantic escape.
- Personal Moment:
We found a quiet spot in Imerovigli, far from the crowds, and watched the sun dip below the horizon one last time. It was the perfect way to end the trip—just the two of us, the sea, and the setting sun.
This 6-day itinerary is for couples who want to experience the romance of Santorini and the peaceful beauty of Folegandros. These islands offer the perfect setting for a romantic escape. Every day brings a new adventure, with plenty of time for intimate moments and unforgettable experiences.
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