Santorini is among the most favorite places to propose for young couples, we help capture numerous engagements here every week! Although you don’t know exactly where to begin planning your proposal, there are so many options in the beautiful island of Santorini. Make sure the proposal reflects both of you as a couple and don’t let all the info overwhelm you. Whether your style is romantic, eccentric or intimate, we have lots of ideas to help you organize the perfect Santorini proposal. Below some of our best proposal ideas, where to propose in Santorini and a few tips on hiring a secret photographer.
Best places to propose in Santorini
Picking your perfect proposal location is the first step that gets you on the right track. Because we see multiple different engagements every week, we know all the good spots to make your moment perfect.
#1 Anastasi Orthodox Church
This beautiful church is a great spot to propose as it has two iconic marks: the flowering bougainvillea tree and the blue domed church!
#2 Oia Village
The most recognizable parts of Santorini are probably the blue dames. Oia Village has some of the most beautiful ones, including the famous Three Blue Domes at Agios Spiridonas. Anastasis Church is the most famous dome and is just off the pathway before Patisserie Medivo. We recommend heading down the stairs for a beautiful view of the dome.
The unique white buildings of Oia Village that are set into the cliff set the right mood for the most romantic proposal. You can wander through the pathways and find the best spot! Our personal favorite are the steps leading down to Amoudi Beach on the western side. You’ll see some of the best views on your way there, especially at sunset. To try to avoid the heat and the crowds, the best time for your proposal would be at 8 am in Oia Village.
#3 Oia Windmills
The two windmills on the western side of Oia attract crowds in the evening as it is the most popular Instagram photo spot in Santorini. Looking at the sunset next to these is an enchanting experience. This spot is a lot less crowded during the day, though.
#4 Three Domes of Santorini
This iconic viewpoint is one of the most well-known spots of Oia. They are located in private property though, so you can only get in if you booked a place to stay in the area.
#5 Imerovigli Village
If you feel like Oia is too crowded for you, Imerovigli will be the perfect spot for you – and sunset views are magical there! Our suggestion for a Santorini sunset proposal would be 30 minutes before the sun sets – you can check this online.
#6 Fira
All kinds of beautiful blue buildings built into the cliffside characterize the town of Fira. There are multiple spots where the beauty of Fira is captured within walking distance of each other.
#7 Amoudi Bay
This bay is a colorful seaport with volcanic cliffs and only a 15 mins walk from the center of Oia.
#8 Skaros Rock
One of the original five settlements of Santorini is Skaros. You can take a quick hike from Imorovigli to the top where you’ll have amazing views that are perfect for your Santorini proposal. On the edge of the cliff under Skaros Rock is the stunning Theoskepasti Chapel with its iconic blue dome and bell.
#9 Private spots for an intimate proposal
Are you looking for a place that’s more secluded to make your proposal more intimate? As finding a quiet spot in Santorini is a challenge, here are some ideas to get you started:
Private table at a restaurant with staff to help pull it off. We strongly recommend Franco’s Bar with its amazing view over the white-washed Santorini buildings on the coast. Don’t forget to make reservations in advance!
Rent a scooter/motorcycle or a boat to cruise around until you’ve found the perfect spot
Organize an intimate dinner and celebration at a luxurious Airbnb
Tips for your Santorini proposal
In all our years of experience with Santorini proposals, we’ve learned quite a few tips for couples that want to capture this unique experience. You want your fiancé-to-be to know you put a lot of effort into the proposal and you’ve probably been stressing about it. Just take a deep breath and read our tips for an unforgettable Santorini proposal.
#1 Pick a special spot
We just listed some ideas for the perfect proposal location in Santorini. First thing’s first: know which kind of proposal you want to have. Your proposal should reflect on both of you, whether it’s romantic, intimate, unique, casual or even adventurous. Once you have your perfect proposal vibe in mind, you can start looking at the perfect spot to make it happen.
#2 Practice your speech
Get on one knee to practice and think or write down what you want to say to your loved one. No need to memorize your speech, but make it look like you speak from the heart. Great tip: stick to an idea, not a script. Don’t forget to end with “will you marry me?” though.
#3 Keep it a complete surprise
Ensure that your proposal is a surprise by having a valid backstory. Make sure to make up a story for the reason why you’re going somewhere, especially if it’s somewhere you wouldn’t normally go.
#4 Consider a secret photographer
Capture that perfect moment by hiring a professional engagement photographer. Tell them where, when and how you want to carry out your idea so you’ll have the best possible photos. When you pop the big question, they will capture all the joy, tears and love from a distance.
How to hire a Santorini proposal photographer
When you reach for the ring, adrenaline and all kinds of emotions will kick in and you might not even be fully aware of what’s happening. Let a secret photographer relive the moment again and again, because you’ll never stop telling your engagement story. It definitely deserves better than selfies! You’ll look back on the photos for many years to come.
How does a proposal photoshoot work?
We recommend having some ideas about your proposal in mind before hiring a photographer. Two ways in which a proposal shoot generally happen are:
(1) “Normal” photoshoot where you let the photographer in on your proposal plan. These photos will be made at a closer distance so will be positioned better
(2) Make your photographer wait at the spot to secretly capture the moment in paparazzi-style. After the big “yes”, you can invite them to take some more post-engagement photos
After you book a photographer, you will be able to plan with them directly.
What’s included in a Santorini proposal package?
Your photos will be in high-resolution and will be professionally edited and delivered through email within 5 business days. Depending on the package, you’ll be able to download a certain amount of photos, it includes:
Private online gallery
One-on-one planning with photographer
Photos of the moment and post-engagement
Photos are professionally edited
Photos delivered within 5 business days
How much does a Santorini proposal photographer cost?
Multiple photographers on our team are specialized in capturing Santorini proposals. Check our list of the best Santorini proposal photographers to see prices, portfolios, read reviews and check availabilities. Below are our favorite proposal packages:
Genevie Keaney is an experienced fashion blogger. She has been blogging for nearly 10 years, and her blog posts are often featured in major publications. Her blog posts cover everything from the latest trends to tips on how to wear certain pieces of clothing. Theresa’s favorite style icons include Audrey Hepburn and Michelle Obama, who she cites as having great style.
