DAY ONE - Beach Day and Four Wheelers!
Santorini Hostel - Markakis Studios in Fira - STAY HERE. This hostel was nicer than a lot of hotels I have stayed in, United States or otherwise. 20 euro per person per night. (3-night stay). The girl at the desk held our luggage and could not have been more helpful, she gave us maps, tips and made our dinner reservation. Link here or on hostelworld.com / https://www.markakis-studios.gr/
Rent four wheelers - all over the island and inexpensive for the day - best way to get to several beaches and Oia if you choose. The bus also works just fine but if you want freedom and a faster ride, go with the four wheelers. 40 euro for the day, but meant for two people.
DAY TWO- Boat Ride to Volcano, Hot Springs and Thirassia!
Volcano first. This day was amazing and educational, wear running shoes to hike and flip-flops for the springs! From the volcano you can see all of the Island, easily pointing out Oia and Fira. I recommend following the tour guide if you can, they will give you the best information and the best places to take pictures.
Next hot springs!! - do not wear a bathing suit you care too much about, it will be stained in the hot spring, but it is worth it. One of the best experiences of my life, swimming in water bluer than you have ever seen.
Thirassia- a small island for lunch, not too much to see and do but great food places to eat lunch with a gorgeous view and relax.
Back to Fira... you can either take a cable car or a donkey both for six euro. The cable car is almost too quick but gives you different views of the island and all it has to offer.
Going out- Go out in Fira! Wander around and every corner will turn into a bar!
DAY THREE- Hike and Sunset in Oia
3-mile hike from Fira to Oia was one of the best experiences of my life. Being outside in the sun, talking to other travelers and getting just a little lost. Free and amazing, you won't regret it.
After hiking, we shopped in Oia for a while and took the bus back to eat lunch and get ready for the night. We came back early to eat dinner with a view and watch the sunset. Try and be there early because trust me, there will be a lot more people than you might think. Once you find your spot, sit back and enjoy. Try the corn on the cob located at street corners-- amazing!
The flight times back to Athens tend to be odd so be aware and book accordingly. I had a midnight flight back so decided to book the hotel until the next morning which was definitely worth it. Fira to the airport takes ten minutes if that and you really do not need to be there very early. Smallest airport I have ever seen, honestly poorly ran and sanitized - my least favorite aspect of the night.
