Things to Do in Santorini

Built on the edge of Greece’s most famous volcanic cliffs, the caldera villages of Santorini are an absolute must for anyone who visits! The most famous ones are Oia, Imerovigli and Fira.
The following villages are also considered to be some of the best locations for your stay in Santorini.

The traditional village of Oia is probably the most photographed village in Greece and the most famous place in Santorini to gaze at the volcano and the sunset. A true labyrinth of cubic-shaped houses, whitewashed terraces, windmills, blue domes and other amazing things make the postcard-like landscape of Oia a particularly beautiful spot on the caldera.
Some sights not to miss in Oia:
• Sunset from Kastro (or Agios Nikolaos Castle): One of the most popular sunset gazing spots on the island. Note that you need to be there at least one hour before sunset to get a good spot.
• Blue dome Churches: Anastasi and Agios Spiridon churches must be probably some of the most photographed churches on the Greek islands.
• Windmill: Imposing and facing the sea, it remains in excellent condition and is a reminder of the island’s older and simpler times.
• Harbor of Ammoudi: It is located right underneath Oia village. It is a tiny fishing harbor with some seaside fish restaurants. It is also a very nice spot for sunsets. (More on section 10)
Discover more about Oia (photos, restaurants, hotels) or view the map.

Fira, the capital of Santorini, is also a great place to get a better view of Santorini’s traditional houses above the caldera’s steep cliffs.
Fira is the best place to admire a view of the Aegean and the town provides all kinds of facilities, including cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy your meal or drink with great views, as well as night clubs that remain full of life until the early morning hours.
While strolling around Fira, visit the neighbourhing village of Firostefani, which is a few steps north of Fira. Homeric Poem hotel is located there along with its famous caique (traditional fishing boat) installation on the top of a terrace creating one of the most photographed spots on the island. The nice instagramic Galini Cafe is also nearby.
Some sights not to miss in Fira:
• Three-Bells Church: One of the famous and much-photographed churches on the island.
• Museum of Prehistoric Thera: Exhibits findings from the Akrotiri excavations as well as the Potamos region on the island.
• Agios Stylianos Catholic church: A colourful catholic church with unique design and architecture.
• Saint John Catholic Cathedral: The blue-gray and cream-painted Catholic Cathedral of Santorini.
• Saint John Theologos Church: Greek Orthodox Church, with lovely cream hue walls and interesting details on its dome.
Discover more about Fira (photos, restaurants, hotels) or view the map.

Another place to get a glimpse of Santorini’s volcanic scenery is Imerovigli, also known as "the balcony to the Aegean", which is particularly popular among couples in love, especially during the golden hour. It offers the best view of the volcano. While admiring the majestic caldera at Imerovigli, try to spot the blue-domed “Anastaseos” church and the castle ruins of "Skaros".
Some sights not to miss in Imerovigli:
• Skaros rock and the chapel of Theoskepasti: Take the hiking trail to Skaros rock and continue further down to reach Theoskepasti chapel.
• Agios Ioannis Chapel: One of the most picturesque chapels on the island. It is located under the Grace Hotel.
• Anastaseos blue dome Church: One of the famous blue dome churches on the island. You have probably seen hundreds of pictures with it before even visiting the island.
Discover more about Imerovigli (photos, restaurants, hotels) or view the map.

How to reach these villages?
You can take the bus or just book your car with us and get the best rates!

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Santorini has many things to offer in terms of sightseeing:

The active volcano is the beating heart of the Aegean Sea and this currently sleeping giant is responsible for creating, destroying and reshaping not only Santorini, but also numerous other islands all over the Aegean.
It wiped out an entire civilization in the past, only to give birth to the new one, as the farmers rely on the special properties of the soil. The volcanic background of Santorini has shaped many other aspects of local life, including the Cycladic architecture and numerous other things.
The volcano’s crater is located on "Nea Kameni", an islet that faces the caldera and can be approached by boat. Walking tours on the volcano are one of the most popular things to do on the island, as they offer the unique opportunity to explore an ashen land, naturally decorated with almost exclusively black and red lava stones. Once you reach the volcano, you can admire a tranquil view of the world’s biggest Caldera and the whitewashed villages built on its top.
It is a very powerful scenery that you cannot miss!
Note: The volcano can only be reached with an organized boat tour. View & Book the Best Tours to the Volcano!

Thanks to the high temperatures of the volcano there are hot springs where you can go swimming near Nea Kameni. The hot springs are located in the uninhabited islet Palea Kameni and the water reaches up to 35°C. The springs can only be accessed by boat trip and you will be able to swim and enjoy their therapeutic properties for free. The sulfur waters have a reddish tint and are a result of the island’s volcanic activity.

For a glimpse into Santorini’s past, visit the thousands-years-old ruins of the Akrotiri Minoan site that were buried in the volcanic ground when the volcano took over.

Lots of other significant findings that date back to different time periods can be found in the Museum of Prehistoric Thera and the Archaeological Museum in Fira.
But the island has also some other museums.

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Even though Santorini is part of the Cycladic island group, its beaches are very different from the long sandy seashores of other Cycladic islands. Santorini’s volcanic background resulted in a truly unique and raw scenery of beaches with black sand or pebbles contrasting with crystal clear azure waters.
Note: The popular beaches get very crowded. It is highly recommended to book your Sunbeds online in advance!
Some of the best beaches on the island are:

Red Beach is the most popular beach on Santorini. Named after the color of its sand and rocks, the beach is enclosed by rocky cliffs and it offers an extraordinary sight! For the most part, the beach is not organized.

Covered in black sand and shingle, Perivolos is one of the longest beaches on the island. Its waters are crystal clear and the volcanic landscape is truly fascinating! Perivolos is fully organized, with sunbeds to rent and other tourist facilities. Perivolos is in the continuation of Perissa beach.

Similarly to Perivolos, Kamari beach is widely known for its unique volcanic setting. The seashore is covered with dark grey sand and the beach is about 5 km long. Beach bars, hotels restaurants and other facilities along the coastline offer sun loungers and sun umbrellas.

Columbo beach offers a completely unspoiled landscape. Located in the northern part of the island, this is an unorganised, nudist-friendly beach, covered with dark sand and pebbles and surrounded by massive volcanic rocks.

How to reach these beaches?
Some of them can be reached by bus. Some other can only be accessed by car. Book your car with us and get the best rates!

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One of the best things to do in Santorini is a boat trip around the island of Santorini that will take you to the volcano, the hot springs and Thirasia island. These boat trips are extremely popular since they offer you the opportunity to see Santorini caldera from another unique perspective. View routes on map

There are several tours proposed on a daily basis and at different hours. The best ones are those in the afternoon as you will be able to admire the golden-pink-red hues in the sky during sunset.
The most popular ones will take you to Nea Kameni, where you will be able to walk on the active volcano and even reach the summit of the crater. After that, you will be taken to the islet of Palea Kameni where you can have a swim in the hot springs. Some of the tours also take you to the island of Thirasia, just in front of Santorini.
Pickup from your hotel and food onboard are included in the price.
Note: This is the most popular attraction of Santorini so book your tour in advance!

Book the Boat Trip

The boat trip to the volcano, hot springs and Thiriasia is also proposed in its luxury version, onboard a beautiful catamaran. The price includes snorkeling equipment, transfer from your hotel, food and beverage onboard and at the end of the day, you will enjoy the sunset in a unique way. In the luxury trips, groups are smaller which gives you more privacy and tranquility while the food offered includes big portions and a delicious barbecue meal is prepared for you. Also, there is an open bar.
Note: The places are limited so book your tour in advance!

Book the Boat Trip

In Santorini, traditional Cycladic architecture merges with modern design and the finest services to offer an unforgettable accommodation experience.
You will find some of the world’s best hotels, with an impressive cubic design and amazing sea and volcano views. Cave-like structures with whitewashed walls, arches and other elements of Cycladic minimalism make Santorini’s hotels truly unique. One of the best things to discover is the famous infinity pools, usually found in luxurious hotels in Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani with a hillside location.
Grace hotel, Celestia Grand, Homeric Poems, Honeymoon Petra, Art Maison are some of the top hotels on the island but the list is endless!
Are you looking for a special stay? Don't miss our selection of authentic cave hotels of Santorini. Don't know where to book? Discover the best places to stay.

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Santorini deserves a spot in every wine lover’s bucket list.
The volcanic soil of this small island in the heart of the Aegean Sea is the secret to success, as some of the finest and most renowned wines in the entire world are produced there.
Wine has been playing a huge role in local culture and economy ever since the ancient years and these days it is just one of the many reasons to love Santorini.
You don’t have to be a sommelier or an expert to appreciate a good glass of wine;
You can either visit some of the best wineries independently or you can participate in an to get a taste of Santorini’s most precious product.

Book a Wine Tasting Tour

During the past few years, a growing interest in alternative methods of exploration led to the creation of special tours that will allow you to see the island in a more unconventional way.

For an unforgettable experience, we recommend a jet ski safari, an unusual way to explore the southern coast or the volcano.

If you take the "south coast tour", you will have the chance to visit the beaches of Perivolos, Vlyhada, Red beach, Kampia, White beach, and Mesa Pigadia.
The "volcano tour" includes visits to Perivolos, Vlyhada, Red beach, Kampia, White Beach, Pharos of Akrotiri, Caldera, and the Volcano (Nea "New" Kameni). View routes on map
The jet ski safari is a bestseller tour and the availability is limited. It is highly advised to book your tour in advance!

Book the Jet Ski Tour

One of the most spectacular island hiking routes in Greece is the 10km path that connects Fira to Oia.
It is strongly recommended to add this 3-4 hour scenic course to Santorini things to do list, even if you are not an experienced hiker.
The trail goes through half of the volcanic caldera and connects Fira to Oia via Firostefani and Imerovigli.
This is considered a relatively easy hiking path, with breathtaking views at any point of the route.
It is recommended to start either at dawn or before dusk in order to avoid the burning midday sun. Discover more hiking routes.

Book the Hiking Tour

Carved into the island’s steep volcanic cliff sides, the cave houses of Santorini are the highlight of the local architecture!
The cozy cave houses have a minimal style and although in the past they were built and used to house villagers, these days they are connected with luxurious accommodation. Many of them have been renovated, modernized and equipped in a way that allows guests to experience a unique kind of Cycladic luxury.

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The continuously expanding gastronomic scene of Santorini has turned the island into one of the most significant culinary destinations in Greece. The most well-known restaurants involve fine dining, gourmet delicacies and magnificent sea views, although several underrated taverns are ready to offer an authentic experience.

The essence of traditional Greek cuisine lies in these small family-owned restaurants, where you can enjoy delicious homemade meals at affordable prices. Some of the best options are Metaxy mas and To Psaraki, two of the best taverns on the island, where you can try the classics of Greek gastronomy in a traditional setting.

If you’re looking for something more up-scale, for a fine dining experience like no other, consider having dinner at Selene. This restaurant has undertaken a 35 years old ongoing project of embracing greek, Cycladic, and santorinian products and creating a culinary scene that can be compared to the finest European restaurants. Selene is housed in an old monastery in Fira and you will certainly need a reservation in advance.

Check out our list of the best places to eat in Santorini or take one of the cooking and tasting classes and immerse yourself into the secrets of the local cuisine. Another option for those who would like to explore the local tastes and aromas is the local products and wine tasting.

Are you a gastronomy lover? Don't miss to take part in a cooking class!

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Right underneath the hill from the famous Oia village, there is a tiny fishing harbor called Ammoudi. Although it is very small it remains quaint, hosting delicious taverns where you can savor fresh fish and seafood.
It may not have a beach but if you walk down a 10-minute seaside path from the port, you will come across many people swimming in its clear blue waters, in front of the Islet of Agios Nikoalos. Thermal springs are also located there.
You can dive directly from the rocks which is really refreshing, especially after descending the 300 steps from Oia.
Amoudi is also considered a beautiful and peaceful sunset spot.

One thing that Santorini’s hotels are known for is their impressive infinity pools! Infinity pools blend into the horizon, creating the illusion that the pool is connected to the sea. They can be found in hotels that are located on the caldera villages, usually on a cliffside above the sea.

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Experience the authentic side of Santorini by visiting some of its traditional villages! These picturesque settlements are located on the mainland of Santorini and maintain their traditional character by remaining off the beaten track.
You can combine your visit with the many wineries that are located near these villages.

One of the most beautiful ones is Emporio, which has a prominent medieval character. Numerous renovated stone mansions have been turned into boutique hotels, traditional taverns and wine bars. As you stroll around the alleys, you will notice some very interesting architectural details, such as old steep stairs leading to upper floors, small neighboring balconies that are almost attached to one another, colourful wooden doors and arches. Bougainvillea trees and pergola vines are adding up a natural note. The main attraction of Emporio is its castle and its Tower of Nimporio "Goulas".
Not to miss in Emporio
• Emporio Castle: It is one of the five Venetians castles on the island.

Pyrgos should also make it to your destination list, as the island’s former capital. It lies on the slope of mount Profitis Ilias and it is surrounded by the famous vineyards that produce the renowned Assyrtiko wine. Most tourists skip a visit there, so Pyrgos rests away from the intense touristic buzz of Caldera villages, preserving the rhythm of the local island life. Whitewashed houses, traditional churches and paved alleys are some of its architectural elements, while the castle "Kasteli" is its biggest landmark.
Not to miss in Pyrgos
• Prophet Elias Monastery: Located on the highest peak of the island, the place offers some unique panoramic views.
• Kasteli Castle: It is one of the five castles built by the Venetians in the Medieval times.

Another hidden gem is Megalochori, with numerous paved alleys and streets. The local architecture has the main role here: cave houses, neoclassical mansions, blue domes, artistic bell towers, picturesque squares and local taverns are some of the things that make Megalochori stand out. The churches of "Agios Nikolas" and "Panagia tis Plakas" are constructed literally at the edge of the cliff, offering awe-inspiring views.
Not to miss in Megalochori
• Symposion: Cultural center offering a rich and well-rounded experience in terms of local cultural heritage and music tradition.
• Lost Atlantis Experience: It is the first museum in the world that gives you the chance to learn everything about the myth of the Lost Atlantis.
• Heart of Santorini: Heart shapes hole in a rock with amazing background views, ideal for sunset views.

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Helicopter tours and transfers in Santorini are a new trend and a popular luxury activity.

Opt for a Helicopter tour for some unforgettable views of the Caldera, the volcanic mainland of Santorini and of course, Nea Kameni. Although this new trend is NOT the most eco-friendly way to explore the island, it is an experience to remember for a lifetime! Availabilities are limited. You must book in advance!

Book the Helicopter Tour

You can also book a Private helicopter transfer between Mykonos and Santorini and enjoy a luxurious flight above the Aegean Sea! Private helicopter transfers are a fast, fun and safe way to get from one island to the other and allow you to enjoy a panoramic view of the Cycladic landscape like no other. During the transfer, you will get to see the most beautiful places on the islands from a distance, including lovely whitewashed villages, impressive cliffs and the famous Volcano of Santorini. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you should not miss, definitely worth every penny!

Book the Helicopter Transfer

Alternative tours are one of the things that have been increasingly gaining popularity among those who visit Santorini.

This is a great way to get to know one of the most photogenic places on earth through the eyes of a professional photographer. Photography tours are a well-received trend in Santorini and many young people rush to opt-in! Taking these tours will help you capture unusual and unfrequented spots, as well as professional portraits of you with the most amazing background.

Book the Photography Tour

Another alternative and fun activity is Sea Kayak Excursions at the southern coast. There are two tours per day that are suitable for couples, groups of friends and families, one in the morning and one in the evening. Swimming and snorkeling are also part of the tour. This is considered more environmentally friendly compared to the jet ski tour and it also allows you to visit some nice beaches on the island.
Book in advance as the availability is limited!

Book the Sea Kayak Tour

One of the activities that are closer to the authentic lifestyle of the island is the Traditional Fishing Boat tour. If you want to experience a different kind of dinner or lunch, embark on a “kaiki” the traditional wooden fishing boat, practice fishing with local fishermen, learn different fishing techniques and then cook and eat the catch of the day while gazing at the beautiful sunset or the astonishing coastal landscapes of Santorini.
The "Traditional fishing trip and fresh fish lunch" and the "Sunset fishing trip with dinner and drinks" are considered two very satisfactory options for the whole family.

Book the Fishing Boat Tour

If your trip to Santorini lasts more than 4 days, it is recommended to include a day trip to Thirassia or another nearby island. Thirasia is a small islet located very close to Santorini. It used to be a part of Santorini but it was cut off after a volcanic eruption. Nowadays, it is only inhabited by 319 and remains untouched by mass tourism. Santorini and Thirasia are like siblings that look a lot alike, having the exact same geology, landscapes and views but with a very different character. Santorini is one of the most popular islands, with modern tourism infrastructures, whereas Thirassia maintains a low profile by preserving an authentic lifestyle. Many tourists skip a visit to Thirasia island, but we believe a boat tour should definitely be on your things to do list. Strolling around the small alleys with the colourful houses and churches or dining at the local taverns is a simple but effective way to escape from the crowds of Santorini.
Note: Thirasia is also accessible with a sailing day tour from Santorini.

If you have planned on staying a bit longer, then a day trip to Ios is the best option for a refreshing full-day visit. Ios is also part of the Cycladic island group, although much different from Santorini. Ios is famous for its numerous unspoiled sandy beaches, with crystal clear waters.
You can check availability and book your ferry tickets directly with us!

If you like the idea of getting to know other Cycladic islands, Santorini is great for island hopping trips. Since it is a very popular island, its port is connected by ferry to most of the other Cyclades, as well as Crete. Some of the most popular island-hopping destinations from Santorini are Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Anafi, Milos and Crete.
Not to miss: You can check availability and book your ferry tickets directly with us!

Although dropping by a bookstore is not the first thing that comes to your mind when visiting a Greek island, Atlantis in Oia is an exception.
This bookshop was founded by a group of American and European literature enthusiasts who wanted to create a retreat for readers and writers in one of the most beautiful places in the Mediterranean.
On the shelves of Atlantis you will find books in English, French, Italian, Spanish, German, Chinese, and, of course, Greek.
Being full of treasures, this small bookshop is every bibliophile’s dream!
Taking back home a translation of the Greek classic tragedies, historical and philosophical texts, or poems is the perfect souvenir!
Don’t hesitate to buy one or more books in order to support their vision.

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Apart from the organised tours, plenty of sports and other fun activities are offered on the island.

Scuba Diving is a great way to discover a sea bed full of rock and lava formations and the rich marine life of Santorini! There are scuba diving sessions for beginners and introductory lessons conducted by experienced and certified instructors.
While exploring the magnificent volcanic seabassin of Santorini, don’t forget to pay a tribute to the underwater memorial plaque for the diver of all times, Jacque Yves Cousteau!
Advanced diving sessions for experienced divers are also available, while the diving center offers easy and quick access to all the diving sites around Santorini and the volcano. Expect to come across lava formations, lobsters, clams, spirographs, colourful sponges, barracuda, many schools of fish and even a small shipwreck among other things to discover!

In addition, Stand Up Paddling or SUP is the next big thing when it comes to sea activities in Santorini. It is a fun way to play in the water while enjoying the breathtaking views. You can rent your SUP at Perivolos beach or take an organized SUP tour. It is a strongly recommended fun activity for the whole family!

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A very popular summer activity for the whole family is the open-air cinema in Kamari village.
Cine Kamari has a garden-like design and there is a bar that serves refreshments, snacks, cocktails, local wine and beer among other things.
There are two screenings every day and the films are in English with Greek subtitles.
Cine Kamari has been awarded as one of the best open-air cinemas worldwide and it is certainly a nice way to enjoy a true, under the stars, summer night in Santorini.
Make sure to add it in your itinerary, as it is one of the best alternative things to do on the island!
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If you happen to visit Santorini during the Orthodox Easter, you will have the opportunity to experience a lesser known aspect of local life which involves the Easter traditions and celebrations. More specifically, during the Epitaph walking ceremony, the entire village of Pyrgos turns into a magical place thanks to the light of thousands of candles following the Epitaph. The Easter flames in Pyrgos offer a unique spectacle which only takes place once a year, mesmerising any visitor!

The love for art and wine intermingles in this one-of-a-kind winery and gallery in Exo Gonia.
The Art Space Gallery cultural hub of Santorini one of the best things to visit.
You will have the chance to see some of the finest contemporary paintings and sculptures while tasting wines.
The building was constructed in 1861 and is an example of the traditional cave house architecture of the island.

The lighthouse is located in Akrotiri at the southwesternmost point of the island.
It was constructed by a French Company in 1892 and is one of the oldest lighthouses in Greece. It is considered a timeless romantic spot during sunrise or sunset and of course a top photogenic place.
Access inside the lighthouse is not permitted but the view from there is totally worth your visit. The area is away from the tourist crowds and has a calm and serene atmosphere.
If you visit it during sunset, remember to bring with you a bottle of the local wine or beer and sit at its white stone walls while watching the boats come and go.

But that’s not all! There are a lot more things to do in Santorini; from amazing places for coffee, coktails & dance to cooking workshops and more.
We invite you to explore even more options that the island has to offer:

SAWA is a non-governmental, non-profit organization, founded in 1992 devoted to loving and taking care of animals in Santorini. Its shelter is close to Akrotiri and if it happens to pass by, make a stop to say hi and meet all these adorable creatures. Stray dogs and cats and maltreated donkeys and mules are a major problem in Santorini that can not remain unnoticed.
Feel welcome to make a donation and support SAWA’s purposes.
Visit their website: www.sawasantorini.com

Discover the things to do in nearby islands & popular destinations