Santorini Things to Do

The traditional village of Oia is the most photographed village in Greece and the Greek islands. It is the most famous place in Santorini to gaze at the volcano and the sunset.
Oia is a particularly beautiful spot on the caldera and offers postcard-like landscape views. It is a true labyrinth of cubic-shaped houses, whitewashed terraces, windmills, blue domes, and other amazing things.

What to do: Enjoy the Sunset from Oia Kastro • Take photos of the Blue dome Churches & the Windmill • Have lunch at Ammoudi harbor • Visit Atlantis bookstore (View more on our map of Oia)

The active volcano has been responsible for creating, destroying, and reshaping Santorini and other islands all over the Aegean. In fact, in antiquity, it wiped out the entire Minoan civilization.
The volcano is located on "Nea Kameni", an islet that faces the caldera and can only be approached by boat tour. Once there, visitors have the unique opportunity to explore an ashen land, naturally decorated with almost exclusively black and red lava stones. From there, the world’s biggest caldera can be seen, with the famous whitewashed villages built on its top.

Don't miss the hot springs!
Thanks to the high temperatures of the volcano, there are hot springs where you can go swimming near the crater. The hot springs are situated in the uninhabited islet of Palea Kameni. The water temperature reaches up to 35°C. The sulfur waters have a reddish tint and are a result of volcanic activity.
The springs can only be accessed with a boat trip & tour. You will be able to swim and enjoy their therapeutic properties.

The crescent-shaped caldera of Santorini covers the entire western side of the island. (View map)
The high volcanic cliffs offer one of the most spectacular views of the sea and the volcano.
Oia, Fira, Imerovigli, and the other caldera settlements are certainly the most visited locations on the island. Many visitors get there, not only for their views but also for the unique atmosphere.
What to do: Near the edge of the caldera, you will find some of the most fascinating hiking trails in the Cyclades.

Even though Santorini is part of the Cyclades, its beaches are very different from the ones of other Cycladic islands.
Santorini’s past volcanic activity resulted in a unique type of beach with black and red sand or pebbles. That scenery contrasts with the crystal clear azure waters of the sea just perfectly!

Some of the best beaches you need to add to your bucket list are:
• Red Beach: It is the most impressive beach on the island. Named after the color of its sand and rocks, it offers an extraordinary sight! The beach is not organized.

• Perivolos Beach: 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! It is fully organized, with sunbeds to rent and other tourist facilities. In fact, it is in the continuation of the famous Perissa beach.

• Kamari 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.

You will find some of the world’s best hotels in Santorini, with impressive cubic designs and amazing sea and volcano views.
Some of the best hotels are Grace hotel in Imerovigli, Celestia Grand in Fira, Homeric, Poems in Firostefani, and Honeymoon Petra in Imerovigli!

In Santorini, traditional Cycladic architecture meets modern design and the finest services to offer an unforgettable accommodation experience.
Cave-like structures with whitewashed walls, arches, and other elements of Cycladic minimalism make the island's hotels truly unique. One of the top facilities is the infinity pool. Infinity pools are usually available in luxurious hotels that lie in a hillside location, such as Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani.

Undoubtedly, one of the best things to do is a boat trip around Santorini.
That type of trip is extremely popular.
It offers you the opportunity to visit the volcano, the hot springs, and Thirasia island and to gaze at the caldera from another unique perspective.
View routes on a map.

• Daily Boat trips

There are several tours proposed on a daily basis and at different hours. Afternoon schedules are the best, as you will be able to admire the sunset.
Initially, the tour takes you to the islet of Nea Kameni. There, 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 for 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 on board is included in the price.
Note: This is the most popular attraction in Santorini so book your tour in advance!

Book the Volcano Tour

• Luxury Catamaran cruise

The boat trips are also proposed in a luxury version on board a sumptuous catamaran.
The full-day tour includes snorkeling equipment, transfer from your hotel, food, and beverage onboard. Moreover, you will enjoy the sunset in a unique way at the end of the day.
The luxury trips are only available with small groups, which guarantees more privacy and tranquility.
Food is also offered and features big portions and a delicious barbecue meal. An open bar is available, too.
Note: The places are limited, so book your tour in advance! The tour is also offered in a sunset version or as a private tour.

Book the Luxury Tour

Renting a car in Santorini will save you time and can unlock destinations that cannot be easily accessed by bus or on a day tour.
Having your own vehicle will make your stay in Santorini much easier. You will be able to move around at your own pace and discover hidden and less touristy spots.
Lastly, if you want to spend most of the time of your stay in a caldera village, you can opt-in for a car rental for a short period in order to discover specific locations you are interested in visiting.
In cooperation with the best local car rental agencies, we offer the best prices and our service is rated .

The continuously expanding gastronomic scene of Santorini has turned the island into one of the top-ranking culinary destinations in Greece.
The most famous restaurants combine fine dining and magnificent sea views.
At the same time, several taverns are ready to offer an authentic gastronomic experience.

• Local Tavernas

The essence of traditional Greek cuisine lies in those small family-owned restaurants. By visiting one, you will get to enjoy delicious homemade traditional Greek food at affordable prices.
Some of the best options are Metaxy mas and To Psaraki, two of the best taverns on the island. There, you can try the classics of Greek gastronomy in a traditional setting.

• Fine-dining Restaurants

If you hanker for an unparalleled fine dining experience, consider dining at Selene. It can easily be compared to the finest European restaurants and has undertaken a 35-year-old ongoing project of embracing local products and creating a unique culinary scene.
Other excellent restaurants include Varoulko, Oia 1800, Lycabettus, Mr. E, and more.

Want to leave the tourist path behind and head to a more authentic side of Santorini? We invite you to book a cooking class with a local chef. You will have the chance to learn how to cook Greek recipes, prepare your own farm-to-table meal and enjoy a wine-tasting experience.

Santorini deserves a spot on every wine lover’s bucket list.
The weather and the volcanic soil are the secrets to success. In fact, some of the finest and most renowned wines in the entire world are produced on the island.
Wine has been playing a huge role in local culture and economy since antiquity. Nowadays, it is just one of the many reasons to love Santorini.
You can either visit some wineries on your own or participate in an organized tour.
Our favorite wineries are Santo Wines, Sigalas, and Art Space.

For an unforgettable experience on Santorini, we recommend a jet ski safari, an unusual way to explore the southern coast beaches.
The "south coast tour" will take you to those beaches. Some of them are only accessible from the sea.
The jet ski safari is a bestseller tour, so its availability is limited. It is highly advised to book yours in advance!

One of the most spectacular island hiking routes in Greece is the path that connects Fira to Oia via Firostefani and Imerovigli villages. The Oia hike goes through half of the volcanic caldera.
Even for inexperienced hikers, this 3-4 hour course should totally make it to your bucket list! It is considered a relatively easy hiking path, with breathtaking views at every point of the route.
It is recommended to start at dawn or before dusk in order to avoid the burning midday sun. You can trek on your own, however, it is recommended to follow an expert.

Don't miss some other renowned villages built on the caldera that also offer amazing volcano and sunset views!

• Fira, tha capital of Santorini

The busy village of Fira is the capital of Santorini. It comprises an ideal place to see Santorini’s traditional houses that lie above the caldera’s steep cliffs, as well as the volcano and the sea.
In addition, the settlement boasts all kinds of facilities and shops. There is a large number of restaurants and bars with spectacular vistas. One will also find some nightclubs full of life until the earlymorning hours.
What to do: Stroll around the village • Take photos of the Blue-domed churches • Visit the Archaeological Museum & Museum of Prehistoric Thera • Dinner with sunset views • Enjoy cocktails with volcano views (View more on our map of Fira)
While strolling around Fira, also visit the neighboring village of Firostefani, which is a few steps north. Homeric Poem Hotel is located there along with its famous installation with a caique (traditional fishing boat) on the top of a terrace. The lovely "instagramic" Galini Cafe is also nearby.

• Imerovigli, the romantic village

Another place to get a glimpse of Santorini’s volcanic scenery is Imerovigli, also known as "the balcony to the Aegean". The village is a favorite among couples, especially during the golden hour. It offers the best view of the volcano.
What to do: Take the path to Skaros Rock and the chapel of Theoskepasti • Visit Agios Ioannis Chapel • Take photos of the Blue-domed Church (View more on our map of Imerovigli)

Right underneath the hill from the famous Oia village, there is a tiny fishing harbor called Ammoudi.
Although tiny, it remains quaint, hosting taverns where you can savor delicious fresh fish and seafood.
There is no beach at Ammoudi Bay but some people swim in the area. After a 10-minute seaside walk, you will reach the islet of Agios Nikolaos. There, you will come across many people swimming in the sea. You can get in the water from the rocks.
Ammoudi Bay is also considered a beautiful and peaceful sunset spot.

For a glimpse into Santorini’s past, visit the thousands-year-old ruins of the Akrotiri Minoan site. In fact, it is believed that the town was constructed around 4,500 B.C.
The ancient city was buried in the ground when the volcano erupted around 1,650 B.C.

A very popular summer activity for the whole family is the open-air cinema in Kamari village.
Cine Kamari boasts a lovely garden where a bar serves refreshments, snacks, cocktails, local wine, and beer.
There are two screenings every day. The films are in English with Greek subtitles.
Cine Kamari has been awarded as one of the best open-air cinemas worldwide. It certainly is an alternative way to enjoy a real summer night in Santorini under the stars.
Make sure to add it to your itinerary!

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

• Helicopter Tours

A helicopter tour offers unforgettable views of the caldera, the volcanic island, and of course, the volcano! Although this new trend is not the most eco-friendly way to explore the island, the experience will be unforgettable! Availabilities are limited! You must book in advance.

Book the Helicopter Tour

• Helicopter Transfers between Mykonos & Santorini

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. They also allow you to enjoy a panoramic view of the Cycladic landscape like no other.
During your transfer, you will get a load of the most beautiful places on the islands. That includes lovely whitewashed villages, impressive cliffs, and the famous volcano of Santorini.
Definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Alternative tours have been increasingly gaining popularity among travelers who visit Santorini.

• Photography Tours

Such tours allow you to see 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! Through those tours, you will be able to capture unusual and unfrequented spots. In addition, professional portraits of you with the most amazing background will be taken.
More about the Photography tours

• Sea Kayaking

Another alternative fun activity is Sea Kayak Excursions on the southern coast. There are two tours per day that are suitable for couples, groups of friends, and families, one during the morning and one in the evening. Swimming and snorkeling are also part of the tour.
Book in advance as the availability is limited!
More about the sea kayaking tours

• Fishing Boat Tour

One of the activities that are closer to the authentic lifestyle of the island is the traditional fishing boat tour.
For an extraordinary meal, embark on a "caique" (the traditional wooden fishing boat) and go fishing with local fishermen. You will learn different fishing techniques while the catch of the day will be cooked and served for lunch or dinner. All these whilst gazing at the beautiful sunset and the astonishing coastal landscapes of Santorini.
More about the Fishing Tours

Experience the authentic side of Santorini by visiting some of its traditional villages! Those picturesque settlements are located on the mainland of Santorini and maintain their traditional character by remaining off the beaten track.

• Emporio, the medieval village

One of the most beautiful villages is Emporio, which has a prominent medieval character. Numerous renovated stone mansions have been turned into boutique hotels.
As you stroll around the alleys, you will notice some very interesting architectural details. The houses and monuments have old steep stairs and small neighboring balconies almost attached to one another. They also have arches and their doors are painted in vibrant colors. Bougainvillea trees and pergola vines are adding up a natural note.

• Pyrgos, the former capital

Pyrgos should also make it to your destination list as the island’s former capital. The village lies on the slope of Mount Profitis Ilias.
It is surrounded by vineyards that produce the renowned Assyrtiko wine.
Pyrgos rests away from the intense touristic buzz of Caldera villages and preserves the rhythm of the local island life. Whitewashed houses, traditional churches, and paved alleys are some of its architectural elements, while the castle "Kasteli" constitutes its major landmark.

• Megalochori, the traditional village

Another hidden gem is Megalochori, with numerous paved alleys and streets. Local architecture is widely on display there.
Neoclassical mansions, blue domes, and artistic bell towers are some of the things that make Megalochori stand out. Some amazing local taverns are also located in the village.

If your trip to Santorini lasts more than four days, it is recommended to include a day trip to Thirassia.
Thirasia is a small islet located very close to Santorini. It used to be a part of Santorini but it was disunited after a volcanic eruption.
Nowadays, it is only inhabited by 319 people and remains untouched by mass tourism.
Santorini and Thirasia are like twins. They have the exact same geology, landscapes, and views but with very different characters. Santorini is one of the most lively islands, with modern tourism infrastructures. On the other hand, Thirassia maintains a low profile by preserving an authentic lifestyle.
It can be reached with a local ferry that departs from the port of Ammoudiin Oia, but also by many organized boat trips.

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

• Scuba Diving

Scuba Diving is a great way to discover the underwater rock formations and rich marine life of Santorini's waters!
Expect to come across lava formations, lobsters, clams, spirographs, colorful sponges, barracuda, schools of fish, a small shipwreck, and more!
Also, don't forget to honor Jacque Yves Cousteau by visiting his underwater memorial plaque!
Scuba Diving centers

• SUP

In addition, Stand Up Paddling (SUP) is the next big thing regarding 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 join an organized SUP tour. It is a strongly recommended fun activity for the whole family!
SUP centers

Visiting Santorini during the Orthodox Easter, and more specifically during the Epitaph walking ceremony, allows you to experience an authentic side of the local life.
Thanks to the light of thousands of candles around the village, Pyrgos turns into a unique spectacle that mesmerizes 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 is one of the best things to visit.
You will have the chance to see some fine 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 was constructed by a French company in 1892 and is one of the oldest 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 during sunset, remember to bring a bottle of local wine to sip while you sit and watch the boats come and go.

SAWA is a non-governmental, non-profit organization founded in 1992 devoted to loving and taking care of animals in Santorini.
Its shelter near Akrotiri houses numerous adorable creatures. Stray dogs or cats are a major problem in Santorini, and so are maltreated donkeys and mules. That cannot remain unnoticed.
If you pass by, make a stop to say hi! Feel free to support SAWA’s purpose.
Visit their website: www.sawasantorini.com

But that’s not all! There are many more things to a lot more things to do, from amazing places for coffee and cocktails to nightclubs.
We invite you to explore even more options that the island has to offer: