← Travel Hub · Things to Do in Santorini · Flights to Santorini
Here’s the real talk: skipping day trips from Santorini is like ordering a glass of wine and only drinking the rim. You’re missing everything. I’ve done all the ferry runs, the tourist traps, and the hidden gems—and here’s what actually works for a real day trip, not a rushed checklist.
Mykonos: The Easy Pick (1.5–2 hours ferry)This isn’t the “party island” you’ve seen in memes. It’s the easiest day trip from Santorini. Hop on a ferry (book ahead for summer—€15–30 per person, 1.5 hours), and you’re in Mykonos Town. Walk the labyrinth of whitewashed streets, grab a sugar-dusted donut from a tiny bakery (I swear, it’s better than Santorini’s), and swim at Super Paradise Beach. Pro tip: Skip the "hidden beach" tours—just walk down to the port and rent a kayak for €10/hr. You’ll see the same sunset as the tour groups but without the 200-person crowd. No overnight needed.
Naxos: The Food & Beach Lover’s Dream (2.5 hours ferry)This one’s for the real travelers. Ferry takes longer (2.5 hours, €25–40), but it’s worth it. Skip the touristy spots—go straight to Apeiranthos Village. Hike through vineyards (free!), eat mousaka at a family-run taverna (€12 for a plate), and swim at Agios Prokopios Beach. The water’s crystal clear, the sand’s golden, and zero cruise ship crowds. If you’re short on time, take the bus from the port to the beach (€1.50, 20 mins). No overnight—just bring a towel, a book, and your appetite.
Athens: The History Buff’s Trap (3.5–4 hours ferry)Do this only if you’re obsessed with ancient ruins. Ferry takes 3.5–4 hours (€30–50), and you’ll spend most of the day rushing between sites. I did it once, and it felt like a marathon. Honest advice: Save Athens for a longer trip. If you’re set on it, take the early ferry (7 AM), visit the Acropolis before crowds, and grab a gyros at a street stall near Plaka. But skip it if you’re new to Greece—your Santorini sunset is worth more.
Akrotiri: The Hidden History (Not a Day Trip—Sleep Here)This is not a day trip. It’s a full-day or overnight adventure. You’ll see the ancient Minoan city (like Pompeii but older), but it’s 2 hours from Santorini by boat, and there’s no easy return. Do this only if you’re staying 2+ nights in Santorini. I tried to do it in a day once—got back at 9 PM, exhausted. Skip it for a day trip.
The One Rule I Live By:If you can’t get back to Santorini before sunset, don’t do it.
Santorini’s sunset at Oia is non-negotiable. I’ve seen people skip it for “off-the-beaten-path” spots, and they regret it instantly. Stick to Mykonos or Naxos, and you’ll have time to sip wine on your balcony, watching the sky turn pink.
No brochures. No fluff. Just the trips I’ve done, the ones that actually fit in a day, and the ones I’d skip again. You’ve got your island—now go make it count.
Ready to fly to Santorini?
Search Flights to Santorini →Yes — Naxos is one of the most popular day trips from Santorini. See the full guide above for travel times and tips.
Yes — Mykonos is one of the most popular day trips from Santorini. See the full guide above for travel times and tips.
Yes — Folegandros is one of the most popular day trips from Santorini. See the full guide above for travel times and tips.
Was this helpful?