3 Days in Santorini in Winter
Edited on
The beautiful coast of Oia, Santorini, in December
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Coast of Oia, Santorini, Greece
The Best Time To Visit Santorini
Having just spent 3 days in Santorini in winter, I’m a huge proponent of visiting Santorini during the off-season to avoid the crowds and get the entire island largely to yourself. Sure, a lot of the island will be closed up, but you’ll avoid those hot summer days and massive crowds. If you’d like to snap photos without hordes of tourists or enjoy a peaceful island getaway with unobstructed, gorgeous Santorini sunset views and cool days around 60 degrees, then winter is the best time of year to visit Santorini. But no matter what time of year you visit, Santorini is gorgeous. Only have time for 1 day in Santorini? Don’t worry, it’s still doable, especially if you visit in the off-season.
Santorini is widely regarded as one of the best Islands to visit around the world. And while summer is a popular time for the island, winter in Santorini is mild, with few rainy days and many beautiful, blue skies. Granted, it’s not the best time for relaxing on the island’s White Sand Beach; Santorini is still perfect in winter. Santorini has a lot more to offer than beaches anyway. There are plenty of things to do to fill your time, and yes, with some careful planning, you can have a fantastic, accessible holiday.
Closed shops in Oia, Santorini, Greece
Why Visit Santorini?
If you’re looking to do some island hopping in the Greek islands, Santorini is a must-visit destination. It’s one of the most romantic vacations in Greece. From those famous blue domes and iconic cave houses to the black sand beaches and sunset views over the Castle of Oia, Santorini is even more beautiful than the photos you’ve seen. There are plenty of attractions and activities as well as some truly amazing hotels in Santorini, including some great places to stay in Santorini without a car. Plus, the food… my goodness, the food is spectacular!
Santorini is a pretty chill island. If you’re looking for Greek Islands with a party atmosphere, there are better choices, like Mykonos, Kos, Paros, and others. If you are looking to experience the vibes of several of the Greek Islands, it’s easy enough to build out a two-week island-hopping itinerary in Greece.
This travel guide will give you even more reasons to plan a 3-day Santorini Itinerary and see this gorgeous island yourself.
Moby Dick, Oia, Santorini, Greece
Is Santorini Wheelchair Accessible?
Santorini’s stairs and rocky terrain can make it difficult for wheelchair users and those with mobility issues. But it is possible to see a lot of the island and have a wonderful time with a little planning. For each of the Santorini activities I list below, I’ve added accessibility info.
There are a lot of amazing places to stay in Santorini. When it comes to hotels, a lot of the older hotels operating out of historic buildings are required to conform to the original architecture, meaning there will likely be a ton of stairs. Newer hotels are decidedly more accessible. They are required by law to have a small percentage of wheelchair-accessible rooms, elevators, and ramps if they’re over a certain number of rooms. If you require an accessible room, I highly recommend booking well in advance, as rooms are limited and sell out quickly. Below are some of the top wheelchair-accessible hotels in Santorini.
Santo Pure (non-caldera, Oia)
Bellonias Villas (Kamari Beach)
West East Suites (caldera, Imerovigli by Skaros Rock)
Aeifos Boutique Hotel (caldera, Imerovigli by Skaros Rock)
Of course, even getting to your hotel from the airport or port can be difficult. I recommend avoiding taxis, which are usually just someone’s car with a taxi sign affixed to the top. On my trip, I booked a taxi and was surprised to be thrown into it with three strangers at the airport. It was a very uncomfortable ride, to say the least.
There is a wheelchair-accessible transfer service on the island. Karavas Travel has wheelchair-accessible vans with ramps. Wheelchair users are able to board the van and travel without having to leave their chairs. They’re available for transfers to and from the port/airport as well as for general island transport.
Some of the many stairs in Oia, Santorini, Greece
Facts About Santorini
Santorini Population: 15,500 people
Santorini Winter Weather: Low to mid-60s, with little rain
Santorini Currency: The Euro
One of Oia’s many street cats sits outside a restaurant
Is 3 Days Enough in Santorini?
Santorini is a relatively small island. At only 30 square miles, it’s easy to explore in a short amount of time.
If you’re visiting Santorini in the off-season (mid-October through the winter months) you will have the island largely to yourself and will find it easy to snatch up one of those gorgeous cave hotels. Three days will give you plenty of time to experience the island highlights. Even in the summer months during peak season, three days in Santorini is plenty, though you should plan your itinerary in advance as things like boat tours and wine tours book up fast in the peak season.
If you’re just coming to the island to relax and enjoy the gorgeous views and sunny days, three days is also the perfect amount of time year-round.
A Statue looking out over a Greek Orthodox Church in Oia, Santorini, Greece
How to Get to Santorini
If you’ve followed my Greece travel blog adventures, you’ll know I did a whole post on how to get from Athens to Santorini. Long story short, you can either fly or take the ferry. Though in the winter, your ferry options may be more limited so flying may be preferable. If you’re looking to save money and don’t mind taking a little more time, the ferry will be the better option.
If you’re interested in taking the ferry, you can purchase tickets below from Blue Star Ferry:
Looking to get to Santorini from Crete? Here’s how to get from Chania to Santorini.
Another option when visiting Santorini is to come on one of the many cruise ships that visit the island.
Church bells in Oia, Santorini, Greece
What to Do In Santorini in Winter
You may have heard that many of the shops and restaurants close during the Santorini winter. While this is true, there are still plenty of shops that remain open and several places to eat and buy groceries. Most of the restaurants open in Mid-April and close in Mid-October. But don’t let that scare you off visiting Santorini in winter. The pros of doing so far outweigh the cons, and you can still find plenty of things to do in Santorini in winter.
Sample a variety of wines
Wine Tasting
Santorini receives very little rain and has great weather year-round, making it an ideal place for wine. If you fancy a little boozy afternoon, Santorini wine tours are a great option. There are several wheelchair-accessible wineries in Santorini.
Hatzidakis Winery: Located in Pyrgos, the parking, restroom, and all facilities are accessible by wheelchair. You can take a guided tour of the facilities with all tasting appointments.
Santo Wines: Also located in Pyrgos, the parking lot, wine bar, deli shop, entrance, tasting area, and restrooms are wheelchair accessible. The tasting area also offers some gorgeous caldera views. However, the restaurant and winery production areas are not accessible due to stairs.
Estate Argyros: Located in Episkopi Gonia, Estate Argyros is entirely wheelchair accessible, including the wine tasting room, production area, vineyards, and parking areas.
Vassaltis Vineyards: Located in Vourvoulos, visitors should know the tasting room is accessible by wheelchair, but the path from the parking area to the tasting room is cobbled, which may be difficult for some. The restaurant is wheelchair-accessible, but reservations are recommended.
I also recommend the Wheelchair-Accessible Santorini Sunset Wine Tour.
Wine not your thing? Try the Wheelchair-Accessible Santorini Brewery Tour With Beer Tasting and Optional Meal.
Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral Santorini, Greece
Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral
The Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral is Santorini’s most recognizable church. The beautiful building is a great spot for snapping photos. I will warn you, and I can’t believe I have to say this, but there are signs up everywhere asking people not to climb on holy buildings. Yet I repeatedly saw tourists doing so. Please don’t climb on the churches. Stick to taking your photos on the ground.
Address: Ipapantis, Thira 847 00, Greece
Oia Castle
Oia Castle
The Oia Castle sunset views cannot be beaten. Seeing the remains of this 15th-century Venetian fort is one of the top things to do in Oia and on the island as a whole. This is also the best viewing point on the island for that romantic Greek sunset. However, word of warning: there is no wheelchair-accessible path to get there. On day 2 of my trip, I braved the stairs and made my way down the hill. Getting down wasn’t as much of an issue as making the climb back up with little daylight. If you have chronic pain or mobility issues that worsen when climbing stairs, I would urge you to view the castle from the above walkway and skip the climb down the hill.
To get the best views, book your stay at Art Maison Oia Castle.
Akrotiri Archaeological Site, Santorini, Greece
Akrotiri Archaeological Site
Believe it or not, the Akrotiri Archaeological Site is one of the most accessible parts of Santorini. It’s also one of the island’s most important cultural locations. When you visit, you do so under shelter in a climate-controlled area with wide wood-planked walkways and ramps throughout the facility. If you book a tour, a guide will walk you through the site and explain the history of Santorini, including the volcanic eruption that led to the formation of the island. There are also self-guided audio tours available.
I recommend the Wheelchair-Accessible Akrotiri Prehistoric City Guided Tour
Address: Thera 847 00, Greece
Fira to Oia Hike
If you’re physically up to a great hike, there’s none better than the Fira to Oia hike. This 10km long hike takes you through Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli, Finikia, and Oia. The trail offers stunning views and isn’t difficult or dangerous. But it may be too strenuous for those with mobility issues.
Even if you aren’t up for a hike, I highly recommend visiting Fira, the capital of Santorini.
Perissa beach Santorini, Greece
Perivolos and Perissa Beach Santorini
While winter is hardly the best time to hang out on the black sand beach, or take a dip in the sea at Perivolos and Perissa beaches, it’s still a good time to take a stroll down the accessible walkways located alongside the sea. There will even be a few shops open to do some souvenir shopping or grab a bite to eat.
Sunset over Santorini in the winter
Tours of Santorini
If you want to relax and let someone else do the driving, and not have to hike up hills, purchasing a private tour can be an excellent option. There are a few wheelchair-accessible tour companies in Santorini. This is also a great option for those with mobility issues as these tours avoid the island’s many, many stairs, hills, and cobblestone paths.
Karavas (the transportation company recommended above) offers a wonderful 5-hour Private Wheelchair Accessible Santorini Tour. Customizable stops include places like Oia and its breathtaking caldera views, the village of Megalochori, the Museum of Ancient Thera, wine tasting, a volcanic black sand beach, and the Archaeological site at Akrotiri.
Another great company for touring Santorini, Santorini Experts, offers a 4-hour Private tour featuring panoramic views of Santorini. The tour is wheelchair accessible and specifically designed to bypass the island’s many steps. Highlights of the tour include the black sand beaches of Akrotiri, a winery visit, views from the villages of Oia and Firostefani, and other mountaintop views.
The final company offering wheelchair accessible tours of the island is Disabled Access Travel, offering a 5-hour private tour of Santorini. Highlights include the village of Megalochori, visits to the cliff towns of Fira and Oia, and optional add-ons for the Museum of Prehistoric Thera and Ammoudi Bay.
An inaccessible bookstore in Oia, Santorini
Kamari Beach
If you’re visiting outside of the winter season and want to enjoy the beach, Kamari Beach has a mechanical sea-access ramp to carry wheelchair users from the sandy beach into the sea. If you’re visiting in winter, it’s still a pretty area to stroll by and appreciate the seaside views.
Black sand beach of Kamari Beach
Only You can Choose The Best Time To Go To Santorini
There really is no one best time to go to Santorini, Greece. But I hope I’ve done a good job of convincing you of the benefits of visiting in winter. A lot of travel guides will try to sell you on the benefits of visiting in the peak months, but in order to make your Greece travel plans with ease and accessibility, I highly recommend booking three days in Santorini in winter. Unless you’re a beach bum who wants to soak up the sun, the Santorini weather is spectacular in fall/ winter. I found it very much akin to the weather in Los Angeles or San Diego at that time of year, sunny, free from rain, and temperatures in the 60s. Booking tours and excursions is also far easier during the off-season, and you’ll be able to snap much better photographs.
Sunset over Santorini, Greece
Is Santorini worth visiting in winter?
Yes—if you’re visiting for scenery, photography, food, and a quieter atmosphere. Winter offers a different experience from the busy summer season, with fewer visitors but also fewer open hotels, restaurants, and tours. Go with flexible plans and realistic weather expectations. You can still enjoy those famous caldera views without making a swimming pool the centerpiece of your vacation.
What is the weather like in Santorini in winter?
Expect cool weather, possible rain and windy days, with sunny spells between unsettled periods. Typical midwinter daytime highs are around 58°F, or 14°C, and evenings feel colder. Don’t pack for a guaranteed warm-weather beach escape. Bring layers and a waterproof jacket, especially for exposed viewpoints. Check Santorini’s climate averages when planning.
Is three days enough for Santorini in winter?
Three full days can be enough for a relaxed introduction, including time in Fira and Oia, a winery visit, and selected historical sights. Keep the order flexible so you can save outdoor viewpoints for clearer weather. If your arrival and departure days are included, you’ll have less sightseeing time than the phrase “three-day trip” suggests.
Does Santorini shut down in winter?
No, but many tourism businesses close or reduce their services. You’ll still find places to stay and eat, though you shouldn’t assume a restaurant, hotel, or tour featured in a summer guide operates in January. Confirm opening dates directly before building your itinerary around a particular business. This winter travel guide explains the seasonal differences.
Where is the best place to stay in Santorini in winter?
I’d start your search in Fira, which is generally a more practical winter base for services and transportation. Oia can suit travelers seeking a quieter stay, but check nearby dining options before booking. If you have limited mobility, prioritize the actual route from your drop-off point to your room over the promise of a spectacular terrace. See this winter accommodation overview.
What are the best things to do in Santorini in winter?
Build your trip around village sightseeing, caldera views, photography, wine tasting and historical attractions when open. You can also visit the coast for scenery without planning a beach day. My suggestion is to choose one main outing each day and leave room for a long lunch, changing weather, and whatever catches your attention along the way.
Can you visit Santorini’s wineries in winter?
Some wineries welcome winter visitors. Santo Wines, for example, describes its wine tourism center as operating year-round. However, seasonal hours, holiday breaks, and available experiences can vary, so confirm your date before arriving. Ask separately about step-free tasting areas, bathrooms and production tours if you need wheelchair access. Check Santo Wines’ official visitor information.
Is Santorini wheelchair accessible?
Santorini is challenging for wheelchair users because of its slopes, steps and uneven paving, but carefully planned visits are possible. Accessibility varies considerably between hotels, villages and attractions. Confirm specific routes and facilities rather than relying on a general “wheelchair-friendly” description. This local wheelchair travel guide outlines some options and limitations.
Can you visit Akrotiri Archaeological Site in a wheelchair?
Akrotiri is worth investigating for an accessible sightseeing itinerary. Its covered excavation includes walkways and ramps, although access and viewing angles vary across the site. Confirm the current accessible route, bathroom facilities, and winter opening arrangements before visiting. See this Santorini accessibility guide for background.
Do you need a rental car in Santorini in winter?
Not necessarily, but a car or prearranged driver can make a short trip more flexible. Winter bus services are more limited than summer services, so check departure and return times before setting out. Wheelchair users should confirm suitable transportation in advance rather than assuming local buses can accommodate their device. Consult the official KTEL Santorini website for current services.
Is it better to fly or take the ferry to Santorini in winter?
For a short visit, I’d generally favor flying from Athens to preserve sightseeing time. Ferries are another option, but check the winter schedule and leave flexibility for weather-related disruption. Neither option is immune to delays, so avoid a tight connection to your flight home. My Athens to Santorini guide explains the considerations when choosing between them.
Can you swim in Santorini in winter?
Some cold-water swimmers do, but most visitors won’t find winter suitable for a conventional beach vacation. You can still enjoy coastal scenery when conditions are comfortable. If a hotel pool or hot tub matters to your trip, ask whether it operates during your dates and whether it is heated—don’t rely on summer photographs.
What should you pack for Santorini in winter?
Pack layers, a wind-resistant waterproof jacket, and comfortable footwear with good traction. Add sun protection for clear days and something warm for evenings. If you use a mobility device, bring appropriate weather protection and charging equipment. A warm layer earns its suitcase space when the breeze picks up at a caldera viewpoint.
How can you enjoy Santorini with chronic illness or limited energy?
Plan short outings, arrange transportation where needed, and choose accommodation with easy access to meals. Before booking, ask about stairs between the street, reception, room, and breakfast area. Keep one main activity per day and make additional stops optional. You don’t need to climb every staircase on the island to come home with wonderful memories.
Jenn Lloyd is a disabled travel blogger and television writer based in Los Angeles. After a successful career writing for shows like KC Undercover and The Thundermans, she launched Sick Girl Travels to share her experiences navigating the world with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, POTS, and fibromyalgia. Having visited 40 U.S. states, 39 countries, and all 7 continents, Jenn offers inclusive travel guides with accessibility tips for those with mobility challenges. Her work has been featured on CNN, Huffington Post, and Consumer Reports. When not traveling, she enjoys fostering dogs, photographing street art, and spending time with her French bulldog, Miss Madelyn Pew.
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