There are many blogs that can tell you about the best things to do in Santorini.
They can give you hints and ideas of what to visit on the Greek island. And heck, yeah, it might even work for some.
But if you aim higher, if you need to have it all seasoned with insider tips, lived experiences and no-filter pics, you need more than a middling post.
You need the ultimate travel guide to what to do in Santorini.
In this post, you’ll find everything you need for a spellbinding journey into the best things to do in Santorini.
Travel to Santorini! Yes, yes and yes! White houses, blue domes, dramatic sunsets, calm sea, fabulous food, luxury towns, authentic villages, volcano, spectacular (rocky) beaches, hordes of donkeys and lots of stairs waiting to be climbed! This is the diversity of Santorini that will keep the pot boiling during your stay!
Taste Santorini! Greek food has undoubtedly one of the most delicious cuisines. Although the palette of this Balkan country is large, Santorini food has a say, such as tomato balls, fava me koukia or the famous Santorini wine!
Feel Santorini! Very touristy destination, the island opens up to you and reveals itself if you know where to look! Talk to locals, use public transportation, visit remote and authentic villages are some ideas to help you get in touch with the soul of Santorini!
Good to know
Our trip to Santorini
How many days you need in Santorini
When visit Santorini
Best things to do in Santorini
Where to eat in Santorini
Interactive Santorini travel guide
Good to know
These are some useful tips to help you better organize the trip.
- The island of Santorini is small. If you rent a car, you can basically visit all of it in just one day, but it would be a pity.
- Santorini is expensive. The reputation of the island has sky-rocketed for some years, and so have the prices! (The only budget thing here are the prices of the public buses, and I am not joking! 😊)
- The public transport network is ktel-santorini.gr. On average, buses run daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- The ticket can only be bought on the bus. You can only pay cash.
- There is an airport bus that charges 2 €/ride. It takes about 10 minutes from the airport to Fira, the capital of Santorini.
- The bus schedule is usually respected, but depending on the money collector (there’s always a person on the bus who collects the money) we encountered some unexpected situations (we had to wait even three buses in a row because there were no seating places – you are at the collector’s whim);
- The tariff for the public bus is 2 euro/person for most destinations. You have to know that all buses leave from and return to Fira. This is one of the reasons that make Fira the best accommodation spot on the island.
- Santorini has around 16.000 inhabitants and over 1000 churches, most of them private.
- Moreover, Santorini is not your cup of tea if you look for isolated places. The leap on tourism Santorini has come across lately brought along massive crowds of visitors that populate the streets of Oia and Fira.
- Renting a car in Santorini can be a good idea, but you have to know that if you plan driving in the Caldera area (Fira, Imerovigli, Oia), finding a parking spot can be a real challenge in high season.
- Renting an ATV or a buggy is a popular option. Make sure to wear a helmet, as driving in Santorini is chaotic.
Other useful information on Santorini:
- Fira is the best choice if you travel with family, children, want to experience nightlife or go shopping for souvenirs. You can find both expensive luxury accommodation and more down-to-earth guest houses.
- Oia (pronounced ee-a) is the most luxury destination. Crammed with expensive villas and hotels, as well as known as the best sunset spot on the island, Oia is beautiful, but also the most overpriced location.
- Imerovigli is a stylish and trendy town full of honeymoon suites. It is packed with whitewashed luxury hotels, but there are no (souvenir) shops in Imerovigli.
- Pyrgos is an authentic village with narrow labyrinthic streets. Pretty and clean, with some accommodation options, Pyrgos is a great destination for a few hours.
- Megalochori seems even more remote than Pyrgos, but exhales the same vibe of authenticity.
- Santorini has an active volcano (!) There was a huge eruption around 1600 B.C. that led to the actual shape of the island. Initially, the island was round, but as a result of the eruption, huge parts of it collapsed.
- The caldera is a term you’ll hear a lot. It is a large hollow that forms shortly after the emptying of a magma in a volcanic eruption. The best views you can get are all on the caldera.
- The eruption led to a geographical form that places all of Santorini much above sea level. It means that there are lots of stairs to climb (sometimes as many as 600!). Pack comfy shoes!
- Don’t forget your sunglasses! Sometimes you need them more for the severe sandy winds than for the sun.
- Santorini is not the typical beach destination. People are not drawn to Santorini for the sandy beaches and smooth entry in the Aegean Sea. But it compensates by the out of the ordinary beaches with black or red sand (due to the volcano).
- All accommodation on the island has a smaller or larger private pool.
- The name Santorini was given after a chapel of Saint Irene (Santa Irini-Santorini)
- Donkeys are a symbol of Santorini. Part of traditional folklore, donkeys are present as a means of transportation basically everywhere you have to climb. So are donkey droppings! A ride is 10 euros.
- Wine is another landmark of Santorini. Feel free to try it!
Our trip to Santorini
After visiting pretty parts of Greece years ago (Thassos, Lefkada, Corfu, Halkidiki, or Zakinthos), last summer I had a revelation. Just decided to reignite my passion for Greece with a fresh destination. But it had to look like the picture-perfect postcard: lots of white accompanied by blue. This is how the image of Santorini came to my mind and I sealed it with a plane ticket to Thira airport.
I undertook the travel with my teenage daughters (15 and 17) and had a tremendous time for one full week. It was perfect not only because of a company so dear to me, but also because Santorini has the right amount of everything. Here you can explore and discover, keep fit (hundreds of stairs daily) and have no remorse about great food, swim in the sea and be surrounded by unreal landscape. All in the same place. And hell yeah, watch the world’s most beautiful sunset!
How many days you need in Santorini
Santorini is a wonderful destination both for curious wanderers just like me and tens of cruise ships. If for the latter, the things to do in Santorini need to be condensed in one day, a traveller can decide on the number of days to spend. To form an idea of the island and also explore, 3 days is a good number. But, I am pretty sure that even if you spend one whole week (like we did!), you won’t get bored and find a new activity for each day!
In conclusion, there isn’t a standard answer to the question, but personally I consider three days in Santorini a reasonable choice.
When visit Santorini
Santorini, part of the Cyclades islands is one of those destinations that is seasonal. Here, the season is open from April to October.
You guessed it! From the point of view of sheer visiting, it is best to explore Santorini either at the beginning or end of season, thus you’ll avoid the peak crowds. September seems to be even better if you take into consideration the water temperature and the fact that school already started.
Anyway, we visited the Aegean Sea island in July and everything went smooth! The only tiny hiccup I could name was the large number of visitors that flooded the island.
Best things to do in Santorini
This is a list of the 16 most memorable things to do in Santorini.
Feel free to mix and match according to your interests and availability.
Explore Fira, Santorini’s capital
This chic village is the best (according to many!) accommodation spot on the island. Besides showcasing both budget and splurge villas, Fira stands out as one of the best things to do in Santorini with excellent views over the caldera, lots of fabulous taverns, clubs and many shops. Despite being known for this versatility, the tiny capital of Santorini gets overlooked for its spectacular sunsets (one of the main attractions on the island!). Its whitewashed buildings and narrow cobbled streets wind up and down the streets of Fira, making it a romantic destination. Admire the architecture of the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral called Ypapanti as well as the iconic Three Bells of Fira.
Insider tip!: For an amazing view of the sunset, stroll down the stairs from the cable car upper station to the picturesque old port area, or simply book a table at one of the caldera restaurants! Nektar Lounge is a great choice! Make sure to book ahead for the first row!
Ramble around Oia
However subjective it may be, Oia is considered the most beautiful place in Santorini. It is nevertheless objective that Oia is famed for its iconic sunsets. Perched on the cliffs above the Aegean Sea, the village offers stunning views. The whitewashed houses, colorful plants and blue sea create a beautiful contrast. The souvenir shops here display unique pieces of art and luxury jewellery at high prices. Oia is the place for café hopping or a portokalopita tasting before heading to the sunset spot. Small quaint meandering streets at day turn into hustling and bustling areas before sunset.
Find the perfect sunset spot in Oia
Preparation is the key to success!
It is not an exaggeration that people literally flood the streets of Oia at least one hour before sunset. So, if you want to attend the show of its Majesty, the Sun, it is best to secure your spot. The classic one is close to the Castle, and gives you stunning views of the coast and mill! For variety, try to find your way to Three Blue Domes. However, if you are ready to upgrade your sunset experience from a budget level, book ahead for Melenio and indulge in a Greek sweet while watching the Blue Dome and sea!
The infatuation for the sunset is real! People actually clap when the sun disappears into the sea!
Ammoudi Bay
Situated at the foot of Oia, Ammoudi Bay is a tiny fishing village next to the sea. Of course, like in all Santorini, your physical condition will be tested by going down many stairs (or you can take a donkey). Less crowded than Oia, Ammoudi Bay is one of the top things to do in Santorini for the bright blue waters, colorful boats, palatable fresh fish and swimming for the courageous. We chilled on the deck and enjoyed watching the perfect shimmering blue. It was worth it!
Insider tip!: Take a bottle of water and lots of sunscreen! The stairs have basically no shade, which makes things more difficult on a sunny day!
Fira to Oia hike
This hike is considered by many a must-do for any Santorini visitor. It is 10.5 km long and takes between 3 to 4 hours. It does not require a special training, still you need endurance. As a general recommendation, you should start early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the heatwave.
I highly recommend this hike even if your time in Santorini is limited. You cross the coast villages of Fira, Firostefani or Imerovigli and get a glimpse of the island’s natural beauty and fabulous resorts! You go past some remote churches or observation points and at the end your brain rejoices in the feeling of success!
Insider tip!: For this hike you’ll need sports shoes (avoid white shoes!), water, sunscreen and sunglasses (for the sun and wind)! On the whole route we encountered one street vendor with some overpriced water and fruit and one stall serving cold water and sweets around mid-distance!
Take a stroll in Imerovigli
The locals I came in contact with told me not to skip Imerovigli and they were right. Should I define this luxury village in 3 words? Picture-perfect, breath-taking, romantic. Unlike all other destinations on the island, Imerovigli is enough for itself. There are no shops or markets here, no commercial distractions. Instead, the perfect balance of white and blue and an utmost feeling of heaven make Imerovigli one of the best things to do in Santorini. Although this village is more relaxed in terms of sunset, you can still enjoy a splendid twilight while wandering the narrow walkways. Or, book ahead a front-row table at one of the many restaurants with sunset view!
Insider tip!: Blue Note restaurant is coveted by many for its great location. Be careful! On a windy day, a glass separates you from the view and perfect pictures. So, I’d go for Le Moustache or White Lounge! Perfect!
Skaros Rock
This is the huge rock that you see from Imerovigli. Although it’s hard to imagine, the rock was once the site of a 13th-century fortress. Nowadays, it is a 20 minutes-walk from the centre of Imerovigli that boasts an impressive sunset!
Insider tip!: Make sure to have sunglasses! Sometimes, the strong winds on the island blow a lot of sand!
Insider tip!: Lazy climbing to Skaros Rock, but would love to experience the view? Book a table at Five Senses for the best views over the caldera and rock at dusk! The restaurant is splurge, but totally worth it!
Immerse yourself in Pyrgos, the authentic village!
Ready to experience the best things to do in Santorini? Then you have to take a half-day trip to Pyrgos, a traditional Greek village. Luckily, tourism is still relatively new here, and this makes Pyrgos so lovable and charming! I was stunned by the whitewashed houses, narrow spiralling alleys, blue domes and doors, as well as huge pink bushes! The village is on a high point of the island which enables memorable views over the caldera! Need a rest? Look for Penelope’s, a match made in heaven between landscape and Greek hospitality!
Insider tip!: Take the bus from Fira towards Perissa! Make sure to take a bus that is NOT EXP (express) – as that bus stops directly at Perissa! It leaves every sharp hour and the ride is about 15 minutes.
Insider tip!: Since you’re already here, plan a lunch/dinner at Metaxi Mas, a Cretan tavern highly appreciated! Greek hospitality is traditional here and their cheese kataifi the best ever! Book ahead!
Explore one of the black beaches of Santorini
When I first heard of Santorini’s black beaches, I was intrigued. Well, they are the result of the volcanic eruption that covered the island in pumice, ash and volcanic lava, hence the dark color. You have to know however that the beaches are pebbly and the entrance in the sea not very smooth.
Santorini’s black beaches are within reach by car or bus. You can walk from Perissa to Perivolos and enjoy several beach bars with sunbeds and umbrellas, as well as free beaches. However, there are black beaches also towards the southwestern extremity of the island, but here the pebbles are bigger and most likely you need water shoes (we saw this beach from the boat only).
Insider tip!: Initially we were planning on visiting Perissa-Perivolos (eastern side) and Red Beach-White Beach (southwestern part) in the same day. This is unlikely unless you have a car, as for the former, you take the bus to Perissa and for the latter to Akrotiri. So, if you only have one shot, take the bus to Akrotiri and then the taxi boat to the Red Beach-White Beach-Black Beach.
Do not miss on the Red Beach and White Beach!
You start the trip from Akrotiri. Here, you have two options: hike to the Red Beach or take the taxi boat. We did as the locals told us: took the taxi boat from Akrotiri’s deck. The price is 15 euros/person and it has 3 stops: Red Beach, White Beach and finally the Black Beach, then you return to the initial point.
At the Red Beach you can breathe in the supernatural aspect and take pictures only.
At White Beach however, you can stay and swim according to your whim. The boat leaves you there but there’s a taxi boat coming every 30 minutes, so whenever you think you’ve had enough, just wait for the next boat. Although I am not the crazy beach-goer, the White Beach was the best! It is the only sandy beach, unorganized and small like a private beach! The sand is black and the huge rocky walls white. Like a fairy tale!
The Black Beach has the same regime: you can get off the boat and take your time swimming or sunbathing!
The taxi boat atmosphere and music were so relaxing and chill it can only count as a bonus!
Insider tip!: You have to know that the White Beach is only accessible via boat. The taxi boat runs every 30 minutes from 10 to 18. Take water with you as on the White Beach there is no bar or cafeteria!
Explore the volcano and swim around the hot springs
Book a boat tour online or go to any travel office in Fira the morning planned for the volcano tour. This classic tour takes around 6 hours and takes you to the Nea Kameni volcano (you can hike to the top), the hot springs of Palea Kameni where you have time for a swim (you are given floaters in case you need), Thirassia island for lunch/swim to return to the port of Fira.
Insider tip!: Make sure to wear dark swimming gear and take off your jewelry as the water around the hot springs is orange and may stain your equipment.
Akrotiri archeological site
I do not recall how come we did not visit it, as the site seems pretty interesting not just for history buffs. One of the best-preserved ancient settlements in the Aegean, the Akrotiri site was inhabited by the Minoans around 3000 B.C. After a massive volcanic eruption, the entire ancient city was buried under volcanic ashes. The museum presents in fact the remaining walls and rooms filled with earthenware. Often compared with Pompeii in Italy, the open-air museum seems to be a good history lesson.
Akrotiri lighthouse
Somehow things didn’t work out for us in this direction. We never made the lighthouse a priority, as it is another sunset moment. Besides, I understand the winds here are very strong and it can be unpleasant. I am sure, though, that on a calm day, the views (especially sunsets) from Akrotiri lighthouse can be out of this world. Not to mention that you get to see the entire Caldera far in the distance.
Take a wine tasting tour
No vacay is complete without a glass or …more! In Santorini, the offer is plentiful, as vineyards are a main agricultural endeavour on these barren and windy lands! The most famous grape is called Assyrtiko. It’s a white grape variety originating from the volcanic lands of Santorini. It brings to the glass a magnificent combination of ripeness and acidity.
We went to a wine tasting at Gavalas in the village of Megalochori (if you want to act pro, spit out the wine in the bucket… honestly, I think that’s a pity 😊). The wine house is a small family run business, so they try their best both at producing and explaining everything!
Insider tip!: Santorini is dotted with around 20 winehouses! In Megalochori only you can choose between Gavalas, Boutari or Venetsanos wineries! Looking for a fabulous sunset spot? Try Venetsanos or Santo Wines (considered the best)! Make sure you book a few days ahead!
Experience slow tourism in Megalochori
This village was not a destination in itself, but a side target heading to Gavalas Winery. However, the calm and peace of the tiny remote village were so appealing that I ended by adoring it! We took the bus towards Akrotiri, and got off at Megalochori. Right in front of the station we saw a large Family Bakery, the type that sells amazing food at the best prices on the island! The galaktobureko icecream was a hit!
The streets are narrow and pretty and labyrinthic! Modernization works and the number of workers suggest that soon enough Megalochori wants to shed the anonymous traditional village clothes! Explore it while it is still true to itself!
Stroll along Thirassia island
This island of Thirassia was part of Santorini before it was hit by the terrible earthquake of 1600 B.C. Now you can only get to Thirassia by joining several boat tours. This island is home to only 300 people and 5 villages. As you guessed, it is much less crowded and touristy, so you can take advantage of your time there swimming, having lunch or climbing up to the top of the island to experience unspoilt land.
Where to eat in Santorini
Although not included in the best things to do in Santorini, enjoying food in Greece comes naturally. Greek cuisine is famous worldwide for some delicacies and is paired with the well-known hospitality. So, to put it bluntly, eating in Santorini is a pleasure.
There’s a clear distinction between eating spots. The places with a view are always more expensive and require prior reservation.
If price is an important component of your visit, you’ll have to make friends with gyros. This dish is not only substantial, but also very well priced. In Oia go for Pitogyros or Nikos, while in Fira you cannot miss Erifion, a tavern with generous portions and friendly staff. Triana Tavern is another good spot, right in the middle of the capital. In Pyrgos go for Penelope’s or Brusco, while Metaxi Mas is an affordable imperative.
The sunset view places usually focus on the cuisine, and the experience is reflected in the price. Imerovigli boasts White Lounge, Above or Le Moustache, Oia takes pride in Beefbar Santorini while Akrotiri has The Edge. In Fira try Nektar or Iriana Cafe, both with stunning views over the Caldera.
Don’t forget to wash it all off with a glass of Santorini wine!
Yiamas !
Interactive Santorini travel guide
This is a map with the best things to do in Santorini and the places where to find them. With red you’ll find the best places on the island, the best sunset spots have a yellow pin and with blue you can find the representative beaches of Santorini. The best places to eat are pictured in green, you have some bars coloured purple, while wineries have a black star. Good luck!
Have you been to Santorini before? How did you like it? Do you have any further tips for places and restaurants? I look forward to reading your experiences!
