Top 25 Things To Do in Santorini

Imagine standing atop a cliff, watching the sun dip below the horizon in a blaze of orange and pink, casting its glow over white-washed buildings and the sparkling Aegean Sea. This is Santorini, where every moment feels like a postcard come to life. But this crescent-shaped island, born from a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, offers far more than just its famous sunsets.

Santorini is a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern luxuries. From its black sand beaches and hot springs to the remarkably preserved ancient city of Akrotiri, the island is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a history buff, a beach lover, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, Santorini has something to captivate you.

Let's dive into the 25 best things to do in Santorini, from iconic experiences to hidden gems that'll make your Greek island getaway truly unforgettable.

Watch the Sunset in Oia

Witnessing the sunset from Oia is a quintessential Santorini experience that lives up to the hype. As the day winds down, join the pilgrimage to this picturesque village perched on the island's northern tip. Find your spot among the maze of narrow streets or at a cliffside cafe, and prepare for nature's nightly spectacle. The sun's descent paints the sky in a mesmerizing array of colors, transforming the white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches into a canvas of warm hues. It's a magical moment that captures the essence of Santorini's beauty.

Key Information:

• Location: Oia, northern tip of Santorini
• Hours: Best viewed about an hour before sunset
• Admission: Free to watch from public areas

Why Visit: It's the most famous sunset view in Greece, offering a breathtaking backdrop of the caldera and Aegean Sea.

Insider Tip: Arrive at least an hour early to secure a good spot, especially during peak season. The area around the Byzantine Castle ruins offers some of the best views.

Explore Ancient Akrotiri

Step back in time at Akrotiri, Santorini's answer to Pompeii. This prehistoric city was buried under volcanic ash around 1600 BC, preserving it in remarkable detail. As you wander through the excavated site, you'll see multi-story buildings, intricate drainage systems, and beautifully preserved frescoes that offer a glimpse into Minoan civilization. The advanced urban planning and artwork found here have led some to believe Akrotiri might be the lost city of Atlantis.

Key Information:

• Location: Akrotiri, southern Santorini
• Hours: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM (April to October), 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM (November to March)
• Admission: €12 for adults, free for EU citizens under 25

Why Visit: It's one of the most important prehistoric settlements of the Aegean, offering unparalleled insights into Minoan civilization.

Insider Tip: Hire a guide or use an audio guide to fully appreciate the site's historical significance and intricate details.

Swim at Red Beach

Red Beach is a geological wonder that will make you feel like you've landed on Mars. The dramatic red cliffs contrasting with the turquoise waters create a stunning backdrop for sunbathing and swimming. The beach gets its unique color from iron-rich sedimentary rocks. As you descend the short, somewhat steep path to the beach, you'll be rewarded with one of the most distinctive coastal views in all of Greece.

Key Information:

• Location: Near Akrotiri, southern Santorini
• Hours: Accessible all day
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: It's one of the most unique and photogenic beaches in the world, offering a one-of-a-kind swimming experience.

Insider Tip: Wear sturdy shoes for the walk down, and arrive early to secure a spot as the beach can get crowded.

Take a Wine Tour

Wine glasses set up for tasting with a view of Santorini's caldera in the backgroundSantorini's volcanic soil and unique climate produce exceptional wines, particularly the crisp, mineral-rich Assyrtiko. Embark on a wine tour to sample the island's viticultural delights. Visit traditional wineries like Santo Wines or Venetsanos Winery, where you can sip on local varieties while enjoying panoramic caldera views. Learn about the island's unique "koulara" method of grape cultivation, where vines are woven into basket-like shapes to protect them from strong winds and harsh sun.

Key Information:

• Location: Various wineries across the island
• Hours: Most wineries are open daily, but hours vary
• Admission: Tour prices vary, typically ranging from €25 to €100 depending on the experience

Why Visit: Santorini's wines are world-renowned, and a tour offers a delicious way to experience the island's terroir and traditions.

Insider Tip: Book a sunset wine tour for the perfect blend of tastings and breathtaking views.

Hike from Fira to Oia

For the ultimate Santorini experience, lace up your hiking boots and tackle the stunning trail from Fira to Oia. This 10-kilometer path takes you along the caldera's edge, offering breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, volcanic islands, and picturesque villages. You'll pass through the charming towns of Firostefani and Imerovigli, each offering unique perspectives of the island's beauty. The hike typically takes 3-5 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos (which will be often!).

Key Information:

• Location: Starts in Fira, ends in Oia
• Hours: Best started early morning to avoid midday heat
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: It's the best way to experience Santorini's famous caldera views and charming villages in one go.

Insider Tip: Wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of wat

er, and start early to avoid the midday heat. Consider hiking from Oia to Fira instead to have the sun at your back.

Visit Ancient Thera

Perched high on Mesa Vouno mountain, Ancient Thera offers a double dose of history and stunning views. This ancient city, inhabited from the 9th century BC to 726 AD, features ruins from the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. As you explore the remnants of temples, houses, and a theater, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the island and the Aegean Sea. The site's remote location means it's often less crowded than other attractions, allowing for a peaceful journey into Santorini's past.

Key Information:

• Location: Mesa Vouno mountain, between Kamari and Perissa
• Hours: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM (closed on Tuesdays)
• Admission: €4 for adults, free for EU citizens under 25

Why Visit: It offers a unique blend of historical exploration and breathtaking island views, often without the crowds.

Insider Tip: Combine your visit with a trip to Kamari or Perissa Beach for a perfect mix of culture and relaxation.

Relax on Perissa Beach

Santorini's beaches are as diverse as they are beautiful, and Perissa Beach is a standout with its striking black sand. Stretching for 7 kilometers along the island's southeast coast, this Blue Flag beach offers crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and a range of water sports. The beach is lined with tavernas and beach bars, ensuring you're never far from a cold drink or a tasty Greek meal. As you lounge on your sunbed, you'll have a clear view of Mesa Vouno mountain rising dramatically from the sea.

Key Information:

• Location: Perissa, southeastern Santorini
• Hours: Accessible all day
• Admission: Free (sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent)

Why Visit: It's one of the best-organized beaches on the island, offering a perfect mix of relaxation and activities.

Insider Tip: Walk to the far end of the beach for a quieter experience, or try your hand at water sports like jet-skiing or parasailing.

Tour the Santorini Volcano

No visit to Santorini is complete without exploring the very force that shaped the island. Take a boat tour to Nea Kameni, the active volcanic island in the center of the caldera. As you hike up the lunar-like landscape, you'll see steam vents and sulfur-tinged rocks, reminders of the volcano's ongoing activity. The panoramic views from the top are unparalleled, offering a 360-degree perspective of Santorini and the surrounding islands.

Key Information:

• Location: Nea Kameni island, accessible by boat from Fira Old Port or Athinios Port
• Hours: Tours typically run from morning to early afternoon
• Admission: Tour prices vary, typically around €20-€40 per person

Why Visit: It's a chance to walk on an active volcano and understand the geological forces that created Santorini.

Insider Tip: Combine your volcano tour with a stop at the nearby hot springs for a truly unique experience.

Soak in Palea Kameni Hot Springs

After exploring Nea Kameni, many boat tours make a stop at the nearby Palea Kameni for a dip in the island's famous hot springs. As you swim in the warm, mineral-rich waters, you'll feel your stress melt away. The springs are said to have therapeutic properties, with the sulfur-rich mud believed to be good for the skin. The contrast between the cool Aegean and the warm springs creates a unique and relaxing experience.

Key Information:

• Location: Palea Kameni island, accessible by boat
• Hours: Typically visited as part of volcano tours
• Admission: Usually included in volcano tour prices

Why Visit: It's a unique opportunity to swim in volcanic hot springs surrounded by stunning Aegean scenery.

Insider Tip: Wear a dark swimsuit as the sulfur can stain lighter colors. Bring water shoes if you have sensitive feet, as the seafloor can be rocky.

Visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera

To truly appreciate Santorini's ancient history, a visit to the Museum of Prehistoric Thera is a must. Located in Fira, this museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the excavations at Akrotiri. You'll see beautifully preserved frescoes, pottery, and everyday objects that offer insights into life on Santorini before the devastating eruption. The famous Blue Monkeys fresco and the gold ibex figurine are particular highlights that shouldn't be missed.

Key Information:

• Location: Fira
• Hours: 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM (closed on Tuesdays)
• Admission: €6 for adults, free for EU citizens under 25

Why Visit: It houses the most important finds from Akrotiri, providing context to the archaeological site.

Insider Tip: Visit the museum before going to Akrotiri to gain a deeper understanding of what you'll see at the site.

Explore Pyrgos Village

For a taste of traditional Santorini away from the tourist crowds, head to Pyrgos Village. This former capital of the island is a maze of winding streets, whitewashed houses, and blue-domed churches. As you climb to the top of the hill, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the entire island. The village is home to well-preserved neoclassical mansions, traditional tavernas, and charming cafes, offering a glimpse into authentic Greek island life.

Key Information:

• Location: Central Santorini
• Hours: Accessible all day
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: It offers a more authentic, less crowded experience of traditional Cycladic architecture and village life.

Insider Tip: Visit the Kasteli (castle) at the top of the village for the best views, especially at sunset.

Discover Emporio Village

Emporio, the largest village on Santorini, is a hidden gem often overlooked by tourists. This medieval village is a labyrinth of narrow alleys, archways, and traditional Cycladic houses. The centerpiece is the imposing Kasteli, a Venetian castle that once protected the village from pirate raids. As you wander through the streets, you'll come across charming churches, local cafes, and artisan shops. The village offers a peaceful alternative to the more bustling tourist centers.

Key Information:

• Location: Southern Santorini
• Hours: Accessible all day
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: It provides an authentic glimpse into traditional Santorini life, away from the tourist crowds.

Insider Tip: Look for the eight traditional windmills on the outskirts of the village, a picturesque reminder of the island's agricultural past.

Take a Sunset Sailing Tour

While Santorini's sunsets are spectacular from land, viewing them from the sea takes the experience to another level. Join a sunset sailing tour and cruise along the caldera, watching the changing colors of the sky reflect off the sea and the island's cliffs. Many tours include stops for swimming and snorkeling, as well as a Greek dinner served on board. As you sail back with the sun setting behind you, you'll have a front-row seat to one of nature's most beautiful shows.

Key Information:

• Location: Departs from various ports, including Ammoudi Bay and Vlychada
• Hours: Typically start in the late afternoon and last 4-5 hours
• Admission: Prices vary, usually ranging from €80 to €150 per person

Why Visit: It offers a unique perspective of Santorini's coastline and a magical sunset experience away from the crowds.

Insider Tip: Book a smaller catamaran tour for a more intimate experience.

Visit Akrotiri Lighthouse

Perched on the island's southwestern tip, Akrotiri Lighthouse offers a quieter sunset experience away from the crowds of Oia. Built in 1892, this picturesque lighthouse stands sentinel over the Aegean, providing sweeping views of the caldera and neighboring islands. The journey to the lighthouse takes you through some of Santorini's less-traveled roads, offering glimpses of the island's rural beauty. As the sun sets, the lighthouse casts a long shadow across the landscape, creating a photographer's dream.

Key Information:

• Location: Southwestern tip of Santorini
• Hours: Exterior accessible all day (lighthouse interior not open to public)
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: It offers spectacular sunset views without the crowds, plus a slice of Santorini's maritime history.

Insider Tip: Bring a picnic to enjoy as you watch the sunset. The area around the lighthouse is undeveloped, so come prepared.

Explore the Santorini Arts Factory

For a dose of contemporary culture, visit the Santorini Arts Factory in Vlychada. This former tomato processing plant has been transformed into a vibrant cultural center, hosting art exhibitions, theatrical performances, and workshops. The industrial architecture provides a striking backdrop for the rotating exhibits of contemporary Greek and international artists. Don't miss the on-site museum that tells the story of Santorini's industrial past and the island's once-thriving tomato industry.

Key Information:

• Location: Vlychada
• Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (May to October)
• Admission: €5 for adults, free for children under 12

Why Visit: It offers a unique blend of contemporary art and industrial heritage, showcasing a different side of Santorini.

Insider Tip: Check their website for special events and workshops you can participate in during your visit.

Indulge in a Santorini Wine and Food Tour

Santorini's volcanic soil doesn't just produce great wine; it also yields flavorful local produce. Join a wine and food tour to sample the best of the island's culinary offerings. You'll visit traditional wineries to taste the crisp Assyrtiko and sweet Vinsanto wines, learn about the unique basket-shaped vine training system, and indulge in local delicacies like fava, tomato fritters, and white eggplant. Many tours include visits to local farms or cooking demonstrations, offering a comprehensive taste of Santorini's gastronomic culture.

Key Information:

• Location: Various locations across the island
• Hours: Tours typically last 4-6 hours
• Admission: Prices vary, usually ranging from €100 to €150 per person

Why Visit: It's the perfect way to experience Santorini's renowned wines and unique local cuisine in one go.

Insider Tip: Look for tours that include lesser-known wineries for a more intimate experience.

Visit the Maritime Museum

Housed in a traditional captain's house in Oia, the Maritime Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Santorini's seafaring past. The museum's collection includes ship models, old maritime equipment, rare photographs, and nautical charts that tell the story of the island's rich naval tradition. As you explore the exhibits, you'll learn about the evolution of shipbuilding on the island and the lives of Santorini's seafarers.

Key Information:

• Location: Oia
• Hours: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM (closed on Tuesdays)
• Admission: €5 for adults

Why Visit: It provides unique insights into Santorini's maritime heritage and the importance of the sea to island life.

Insider Tip: The museum's small size means you can easily combine this visit with other activities in Oia.

Take a Photography Tour

Santorini's stunning landscapes and unique architecture make it a photographer's paradise. Join a photography tour to capture the island's beauty through your lens while learning from a professional. These tours often cover iconic locations like Oia and Imerovigli, as well as lesser-known spots that offer unique photographic opportunities. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced photographer, you'll come away with improved skills and unforgettable images.

Key Information:

• Location: Various locations across the island
• Hours: Tours often start early morning or late afternoon for the best light
• Admission: Prices vary, typically ranging from €100 to €200 per person

Why Visit: It's a chance to improve your photography skills while exploring Santorini's most picturesque locations.

Insider Tip: Book a tour that includes both sunrise and sunset shoots to capture the island in different lights.

Explore Skaros Rock

Jutting out from the caldera cliff near Imerovigli, Skaros Rock is a prominent landmark with a rich history. Once the site of a medieval castle that protected the island from pirate raids, today it offers a challenging hike with rewarding views. The trail to the top winds through the ruins of the old settlement, with breathtaking vistas of the caldera at every turn. At the base of the rock, you'll find the picturesque chapel of Panagia Theoskepasti, built into the cliff face.

Key Information:

• Location: Imerovigli
• Hours: Accessible all day, best visited in the morning or late afternoon
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: It offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty, with some of the best views on the island.

Insider Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and bring water for the hike. The final ascent to the top of the rock is quite steep and not suitable for everyone.

Visit Vlychada Beach

Vlychada Beach, with its moon-like cliffs and long stretch of dark sand, offers a dramatic and less crowded alternative to Santorini's more famous beaches. The towering white cliffs, sculpted by wind and waves, create an otherworldly backdrop for sunbathing and swimming. The beach is partially organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, but there's plenty of space to find a quiet spot. The nearby marina adds a picturesque touch to the landscape.

Key Information:

• Location: Southern Santorini
• Hours: Accessible all day
• Admission: Free (sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent)

Why Visit: It's one of the most unique and photogenic beaches on the island, often less crowded than others.

Insider Tip: Visit in the late afternoon to capture the cliff formations in the best light for photos.

Take a Cooking Class

Learned to make proper tzatziki and moussaka today! Can't wait to bring these recipes home.Immerse yourself in Greek culinary traditions with a Santorini cooking class. Many local restaurants and hotels offer classes where you can learn to prepare classic Greek dishes using fresh, local ingredients. You might make favorites like moussaka, dolmades, or Santorini's famous tomato fritters. Most classes include a visit to a local market to select ingredients, followed by hands-on cooking and, of course, enjoying the fruits of your labor with some local wine.

Key Information:

• Location: Various locations across the island
• Hours: Classes typically last 3-4 hours
• Admission: Prices vary, usually ranging from €60 to €100 per person

Why Visit: It's a fun and interactive way to learn about Greek cuisine and take some culinary skills home with you.

Insider Tip: Look for classes that focus on Santorini specialties like fava and white eggplant dishes.

Visit the Lost Atlantis Experience

Dive into the myth of Atlantis at this innovative museum in Megalochori. The Lost Atlantis Experience uses state-of-the-art technology, including 9D virtual reality, to bring the legend to life. You'll explore interactive exhibits that connect the myth of Atlantis to the actual Minoan civilization that flourished on Santorini before the catastrophic volcanic eruption. It's an engaging way to learn about the island's geological and cultural history.

Key Information:

• Location: Megalochori
• Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily
• Admission: €12 for adults, €6 for children

Why Visit: It offers a unique, high-tech approach to exploring Santorini's connection to the Atlantis myth.

Insider Tip: The 9D virtual reality experience of the volcanic eruption is a highlight – don't miss it!

Enjoy a Sunset Dinner in Amoudi Bay

Nestled at the foot of Oia's cliffs, Amoudi Bay is a picturesque fishing harbor known for its excellent seafood restaurants. Take the 300 steps down from Oia (or drive) to this charming port, where you can enjoy ultra-fresh fish and local specialties with a side of stunning sunset views. The sight of the sun sinking into the sea, painting the sky and cliffs in warm hues, makes for an unforgettable dining experience.

Key Information:

• Location: Below Oia
• Hours: Restaurants typically open for lunch and dinner
• Admission: Free to visit, restaurant prices vary

Why Visit: It combines Santorini's famous sunsets with some of the best and freshest seafood on the island.

Insider Tip: Make reservations in advance, especially for sunset times. Consider taking a taxi back up to Oia after dinner to avoid climbing the steps in the dark.

Explore the Venetian Castle in Emporio

In the heart of Emporio village lies a well-preserved Venetian castle, known as Kasteli. This medieval fortress, with its maze-like layout of narrow alleys and high walls, offers a fascinating glimpse into Santorini's defensive past. As you wander through the winding streets, you'll come across hidden churches, traditional Cycladic houses, and unexpected views of the surrounding countryside. The castle's highest points offer panoramic vistas of the island.

Key Information:

• Location: Emporio village
• Hours: Accessible all day
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: It's one of the best-preserved medieval settlements on the island, offering a journey back in time.

Insider Tip: Look for the small church of Palia Panagia, hidden within the castle walls. Its blue dome makes for a classic Santorini photo opportunity.

Visit Profitis Ilias Monastery

Perched at the highest point of Santorini, the Monastery of Profitis Ilias (Prophet Elijah) offers unparalleled views of the entire island. Built in the early 18th century, this fortress-like monastery played a significant role in the Greek Revolution. Today, it houses a small ecclesiastical museum with rare icons and old manuscripts. The journey up the winding road to the monastery is an adventure in itself, offering increasingly spectacular views as you ascend.

Key Information:

• Location: Near Pyrgos
• Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM daily
• Admission: Free (donations welcome)

Why Visit: It offers the highest viewpoint on the island and a peek into Santorini's religious history.

Insider Tip: Combine your visit with a stop in Pyrgos village for a day exploring Santorini's less touristy side.

Structuring Your Santorini Adventure: A 7-Day Itinerary

Now that we've explored the best things to do in Santorini, let's put it all together into a week-long itinerary. This plan balances popular attractions with off-the-beaten-path experiences, allowing you to see the best of the island while avoiding tourist burnout.

Days 1-2: Fira and Surroundings

• Start your trip in Fira, Santorini's bustling capital
• Visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera to set the stage for your island exploration
• Take a cable car ride down to the Old Port for stunning caldera views
• Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the caldera

Day 2:

• Take a wine tour, visiting 3-4 wineries across the island
• End your day with a sunset sailing trip around the caldera

Days 3-4: Ancient History and Beach Time

Day 3:

• Spend the morning exploring the ancient ruins of Akrotiri
• Relax at Red Beach in the afternoon
• Visit the Akrotiri Lighthouse for a peaceful sunset

Day 4:

• Hike up Ancient Thera in the morning
• Spend the afternoon relaxing at Perissa or Kamari Beach
• Enjoy a traditional Greek dinner in Pyrgos village

Days 5-6: Oia and Northern Santorini

Day 5:

• Start early with a photography tour capturing Oia's famous blue domes
• Visit the Maritime Museum
• Explore Oia's shops and art galleries
• Watch the famous Oia sunset

Day 6:

• Hike from Fira to Oia, taking in the caldera views (start early to avoid midday heat)
• Cool off with a dip at Amoudi Bay
• Enjoy a sunset dinner at Amoudi Bay

Day 7: Volcanic Adventures or Rural Exploration

Option 1: Volcanic Adventures

• Take a boat tour to Nea Kameni volcano
• Swim in the hot springs at Palea Kameni
• Visit the Santorini Arts Factory in Vlychada
• End your trip with a final sunset view from Santo Wines Winery

Option 2: Rural Exploration

• Explore the traditional villages of Emporio and Megalochori
• Visit the Lost Atlantis Experience
• Take a Greek cooking class
• Enjoy a farewell dinner with caldera views in Imerovigli

Remember, this itinerary is just a suggestion. Feel free to mix and match activities based on your interests and energy levels. Santorini is a small island, but it's packed with diverse experiences. Whether you stick to this plan or chart your own course, you're sure to create unforgettable memories on this enchanting Greek island.