Santorini Things to Do

We have compiled a list of the Best Things to Do in Santorini, which includes the absolute must-sees and must-dos on the volcanic island: places to visit, sights, beaches, tours, where to eat, activities, and more.

In brief, the top places to visit are Oia village, the volcano, and the Red Beach, while the top things to do are boat trips to the volcano and wine-tasting tours.

Open the table of contents to see our bucket list with the 20 things to do once in Santorini Greece. You can also view our illustrated map.

Oia during the sunset

1. Stroll around Oia village

Category: Villages

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)

Explore Oia

Drone view of the volcano

2. Visit the volcano, a sleeping giant

Category: Sights

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.

Explore the Volcano

The impressive caldera

3. See the caldera, the volcanic crater

Category: Sights

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.

Explore the Caldera

The Red Beach

4. Swim at red & black sand beaches

Category: Beaches

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!
Note: You can Rent your Sunbeds online!

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.

Discover more Beaches

Honeymoon Petra Hotel

5. Find the best places for your stay

Category: Accommodations

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.

Find the best hotels

Sailing boat trip around Santorini

6. Set sails on a boat tour around the island

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

Local car rental agency

7. Explore the island with your own car

Category: Move around

Renting a car in Santorini will save you time and can unlock destinations that can not 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 .

Book your Car with us

Restaurant with volcano views

8. Discover the gastronomy scene

Category: Eat & Drink

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.

Discover more Restaurants

Cooking Classes at Aroma Avlis

9. Cooking workshop with a local

Category: Workshops

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.

Book a Cooking Workshop

Traditional wine canava, the store rooms

10. Savour local varieties on a wine tour

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.

Discover the Wineries

Participating in a Jet Ski Safari

11. Take part in jet ski expeditions

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!

Book the Jet Ski Tour

Views from the Hike from Oia to Fira, a top activity

12. Hike from Fira to Oia

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.

More about Hiking Routes

Sunset from Imerovigli

13. Visit more caldera villages

Category: Villages

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 couple, 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)

View all Villages

Ammoudi harbor and its restaurants

14. Visit the small harbor of Ammoudi

Category: Villages

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 Amoudi 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.
Amoudi bay is also considered a beautiful and peaceful sunset spot.

Discover Ammoudi

The ruins of Akrotiri Minoan Site

15. Akrotiri, the Pompeii of Greece

Category: Sights

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.

Explore Akrotiri

The entrance of Cine Kamari

16. Watch a movie at Cine Kamari

Category: Other Businesses

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!

Discover the cinemas

Helicopter doing a tour around the island

17. Helicopter tours & transfers

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!

Book the Helicopter Transfer

Photography tour in Oia's alleys, a unique experience at the most instagramic spots

18. Join alternative tours & activities

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

View all Tours

Alley in the mediaval village of Emporio

19. Visit medieval & traditional villages

Category: Villages

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.

More Villages

Views from the main village of Thirassia

20. Explore Thirassia island

Category: Sights

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.

Explore Thirassia

SUP in Oia, a amazing way to view the Caldera

21. Fun with other sea activities & sports

Category: Sports

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

View All Sport Activities

Candle light village of Pyrgos during Easter

22. The candlelight village of Pyrgos

Category: Festivals

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!

Discover Pyrgos

The old wine caves of Art Space converted is art spaces

23. Enjoy art & wine at Art Space Gallery

Category: Eat & Drink

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.

Discover Art Space

The Lighthouse, a place to visit for the views

24. Get views from the lighthouse

Category: Sightseeing

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.

Discover the Lighthouse

25. Are you an animal lover? Visit SAWA!

Category: Other

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

 

 

MAP

Discover all points of interest on our illustrated map:

Map of Things to do in Santorini

 

BEST THINGS TO DO IN SANTORINI BY TRAVELLING TYPE

With so many things to see and do, Santorini is rightfully considered one of the top destinations to visit in Greece. Famous for its picturesque villages, stunning sea views, and the volcano, the island has a wide variety of facilities suitable for all kinds of travelers, from couples and honeymooners to families, backpackers, groups, and single travelers.
Below you will find some recommendations on what to do in Santorini, depending on the type of traveler you are.

Best things to do for couples

Being one of Greece's top romantic destinations, Santorini is the perfect getaway for couples. Renowned for its mesmerizing sea and sunset views, the island offers the ideal atmosphere for a romantic holiday. We have created a list of activities to try with your partner while staying in Santorini:

  • Stay at a Cave house
    Cave houses are highly recommended for couples thanks to their cozy and romantic atmosphere. Most cave houses have been designed to accommodate two people. The sea views they offer are unparalleled, allowing you to experience the perfect luxurious stay! Discover the best cave houses!
     
  • Sunset from the Oia castle
    Oia village offers you the opportunity to watch the world's most romantic sunset! The atmosphere of this Cycladic settlement becomes truly magical as the whitewashed houses turn red during the golden hour. The most famous spot for gazing at the sunset is the Venetian castle of Oia.
     
  • Watch a movie under the stars at Kamari open-air cinema
    Cine Kamari is the most frequented open-air cinema on the island, and watching a movie there on a starry summer night is a must for anyone who visits Santorini! Surrounded by dense greenery, the cinema emits a romantic vibe with retro elements.
     
  • Take a wine-tasting tour
    Tasting the world-famous wine of Santorini should not be missed when visiting the island! A wine-tasting tour is the best way to learn about the art of winemaking at local wineries. You will also have the chance to try out different types of wine and perhaps discover your next favorite beverage to accompany your dinners!
     
  • Rent a quad to explore the island
    Renting a quad will allow you to reach the most wonderful off-the-beaten-track locations around the island! Quads are an ideal means of transport for two people, especially if you want to rent something more affordable than a car. The warm summer weather makes traveling around quite easy and pleasant.
     
  • Explore picturesque villages
    Apart from the busy areas of the caldera, Santorini is full of charming settlements with a more authentic atmosphere where you can experience an easy-going lifestyle away from the crowds. Villages such as Megalochori, Emporio, and Pyrgos are full of whitewashed alleys to explore!
     
  • Visit Thirassia islet
    The small island of Thirassia lies very close to Santorini, making it the perfect day trip for those who want to experience a more authentic and less touristy part of the Cyclades. Thirassia offers a few unspoiled beaches with crystal clear waters, and its settlements are full of colorful traditional houses.
     

Best things to do for honeymooners

With its romantic sunsets, gourmet restaurants, and luxurious accommodation facilities, there is no doubt that Santorini is one of the world's best honeymoon destinations! The island boasts the ambiance and facilities required to make your plans for the perfect honeymoon come to reality!

  • Stay at a luxurious hotel
    Santorini is the best place in Greece to look for posh accommodation facilities! Hundreds of deluxe cave houses, villas, and suites with infinity pools, jacuzzis, and other amazing features are built above the caldera's cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the Aegean and making your dream holiday come true!
     
  • Take a sunset cruise to the volcano
    Santorini is world-famous for two things - its beautiful sunsets, and the majestic volcano! With a catamaran cruise, it is possible to combine everything you love about Santorini, including a visit to the volcanic springs, Aspronissi island, as well as some of the best sunset views you have ever had! A barbeque meal and drinks are included, too!
     
  • Horse riding from Megalochori to Caldera cliffs
    Horse riding on the paths of Santorini is a unique experience to remember for a long time! During an organized horse-riding trip starting from Megalochori, you will visit various breathtaking locations and photogenic spots, exploring the island on horseback!
     
  • Have a romantic dinner at a fine dining restaurant
    Pick your favorite place to have a romantic candlelit dinner among Santorini's best fine-dining restaurants! The gastronomical scene of Santorini is quite diverse, guaranteeing an incomparable fine dining experience for all tastes. Don't forget to try out a glass of local dinner with your dinner! We recommend the sophisticated dishes of Oia 1800 and Selene.
     

Best things to do for families with kids

Santorini's charming villages, unique beaches, and fascinating landscapes make it a family destination, too. The island is well-developed touristically, with plenty of family-friendly facilities that are easy to access at any location. Below, you will find some of the best activities to try out for fun family time!

  • Stay at a beach resort
    Sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters make Santorini ideal for beachfront accommodation! That way, you can stay only a few meters away from the sea, which is quite convenient, especially when traveling with kids. The most popular beach resorts are Perivolos, Kamari and Perissa.
     
  • Do watersports
    You can find many watersport centers along the beaches of Santorini, especially the most renowned and frequented ones. The whole family can level up the typical day at the beach and participate in fun water activities, including jet skiing, sea kayaking, and SUP (Stand Up Paddling) among others.
     
  • Visit the lost Atlantis 9D experience
    Particularly recommended for Santorini's young visitors, the Lost Atlantis museum offers an unforgettable 9D adventure during which you will get a first-hand experience of Santorini's volcanic eruption and the destruction of Atlantis! At the same time, visitors will also get to know ancient philosophy and mythology.
     
  • Rent a car and discover non-touristy parts of the island
    Renting a family car is the best way to travel around the island to explore remote locations, unspoiled beaches, and traditional villages without having to rely on public transport or expensive private transfers. We offer a selection of the best car rental companies on the island, where a wide variety of vehicles are available.
     
  • Visit the Akrotiri Minoan site
    Ancient Akrotiri is the most significant archeological site in Santorini, full of ruins of ancient settlements and other interesting findings. It is highly recommended to book a guided tour so that you can explore the site and be provided with all the information required for a better understanding of Santorini's history.
     

Best things to do for single travelers

The beautiful island of Santorini is an excellent destination if you are planning a solo trip to the Greek islands! Santorini has a truly charming landscape full of places to discover.

  • Stay at Fira
    As the capital town of Santorini, Fira is the safest choice for solo travelers looking for a central place to stay. The area is full of facilities, from hotels, restaurants, and shops to bus stops. Its location ensures stunning caldera views as well.
     
  • Take a scuba diving lesson
    Discover the fascinating underwater world via a scuba diving adventure around the volcanic caldera! Scuba diving sessions are the best way to learn more about the local marine life and the secrets of the Aegean, as well as the sunken parts of the volcano.
     
  • Participate in a photography tour
    Being one of the most photogenic destinations in Greece, Santorini is the perfect place to practice your photography skills! Grab a camera, join a photography tour and get ready to collect the best mementos of your solo traveling adventures!
     
  • Take a wine tour
    The wineries of Santorini will introduce you to the secrets of winemaking! A wine tour is highly recommended to those interested in finding out more about some of the world's finest wines. Partake in such an activity and discover what makes Santorinian wine so unique!
     
  • Go island hopping
    An island-hopping adventure is the best way to see more of the Aegean on your own! Regular ferry connections allow you to visit neighboring Cycladic islands located only a few hours away from Santorini, including but not limited to Naxos, Paros, and Schinoussa.
     

Best things to do for backpackers

Backpacking in Santorini is a great way to experience an authentic side of the Cyclades. The island is full of hiking paths to follow, viewpoints that will leave you in awe, and numerous hidden gems. Just pick a road to follow and see where it takes you!

  • Stay at Fira
    The capital town of Fira is highly recommended for accommodation as it is the most convenient place. In Fira lie shops, restaurants, and the central bus station, among other facilities. The settlement has the most vivid nightlife compared to other locations on the island.
     
  • Hike from Fira to Oia
    Known for having some of the most impressive hiking paths in the Cyclades, Santorini is an ideal destination for those who enjoy exploring around on foot. The hiking path from Fira to Oia is relatively short and offers breathtaking views of the volcanic caldera and the sea along the way!
     
  • Eat traditional delicacies at the local taverns
    Spending a few days in Santorini is the right time to experience the tastiness of Mediterranean cuisine! The island boasts traditional taverns that offer a wide variety of dishes prepared with great care and local products. We highly recommend a stop at the seafront Ammoudi where you can try out the island's freshest fish.
     
  • Swim at lava-sand beaches
    The beaches of Santorini are much different from any other seashores you may have seen. The island's volcanic origins resulted in beaches covered in black or red sand and pebbles that add a unique element to the wild Sanorinian landscape. Make sure to swim in at least a few lava-sand beaches!
     
  • Go island hopping
    If you have fallen in love with the Cyclades thanks to Santorini, you can visit more islands in one trip thanks to the regular ferry crossings from one island to the other. Different kinds of ferries are available, and some of the best destinations near Santorini include Milos, Ios, and Amorgos.
     

Best things to do with friends

Although Santorini is mainly known as a romantic destination, you should not miss an opportunity to visit it with friends! Various facilities and organized activities are suitable for small groups, while the island's nightlife is vibrant and worth experiencing! Below, you will find some of the best things to do with your friends in Santorini.

  • Stay at Fira
    Fira is the best location for your accommodation! It is the most vivid place on the island and, as its capital, full of different hotel options. The caldera views are magical, and the central bus station is located there as well.
     
  • Join a jet ski safari
    Get adventurous and go on a jet ski safari tour to enjoy the summer breeze and approach the volcano! This tour will allow you to reach secluded spots along the coastline of Santorini and admire the impressive volcanic scenery!
     
  • Fly over Santorini with a helicopter
    A helicopter tour has become one of the most popular VIP services since it allows you to have some of the best views of the island's whitewashed houses, the volcano, and the Aegean Sea. With this tour, you will also have the opportunity to reach Mykonos, one of the prettiest Cycladic islands near Santorini!
     
  • Take a wine tour
    A winery tour is a must for anyone who wants to find out more about Santorini's wines! You will learn how traditional wineries work and how wine is made. You will also have a chance to taste wines and see the vineyards.
     
  • Board a catamaran for a trip around the Caldera
    Go on a luxury catamaran trip and enjoy the cerulean waters of the Aegean! During the tour, you will see the caldera villages and the island's impressive coastline and swim in the volcano's hot springs and the Red and White beaches. You can also have a traditional barbecue meal on board.
     
  • Explore the island's nightlife
    Being one of the busiest Cycladic islands, Santorini remains full of life after the sun sets. Lively bars with an upbeat atmosphere lie at most locations on the island, while many offer you the opportunity to enjoy your cocktail with a sea view.
     
  • Discover the island with an electric bike
    An electric bike tour is the most eco-friendly way to travel around Santorini, exploring the natural landscape and the island's traditional villages. Join this tour and discover the best hidden paths, secret spots, and viewpoints! A winery visit is also included.
     
  • Go island hopping
    Santorini is the best starting point for your island-hopping adventures in the Aegean! Frequent ferry crossings allow you to reach many other Cycladic islands in only a few hours. Like that, you can visit as many destinations as you wish at once!
     

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