Unmissable Things to See and Do in Santorini, Greece

Santorini, a jewel in the Aegean Sea, is one of the most enchanting destinations in Greece. With its breathtaking caldera views, whitewashed buildings, dramatic cliffs, and deep blue domes, Santorini offers a unique blend of natural beauty, ancient history, and vibrant culture. Here’s an in-depth look at the top things to see and do in Santorini for an unforgettable journey.

Explore the Iconic Village of Oia

Perched on the northwestern tip of Santorini, Oia is undoubtedly the most picturesque village on the island. Known for its world-famous sunsets, narrow cobblestone streets, and charming white and blue architecture, Oia is a must-visit.

• Watch the sunset from the Byzantine Castle ruins or one of the many cliffside terraces.
• Stroll through art galleries, boutiques, and local craft stores.
• Enjoy local cuisine in restaurants offering stunning views over the caldera.

Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid peak crowds and capture the golden light.

Visit the Ancient Ruins of Akrotiri

History lovers should not miss Akrotiri, often referred to as the “Pompeii of the Aegean.” This ancient Minoan city was buried under volcanic ash around 1600 BC, preserving frescoes, buildings, and artifacts.

• Walk on elevated paths above the archaeological site to explore the preserved ruins.
• Learn about the Minoan civilization and their advanced urban planning.
• Visit the nearby Akrotiri Lighthouse for panoramic sea views.

Don’t forget to visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Fira, which houses many finds from Akrotiri.

Relax on the Unique Volcanic Beaches

Santorini’s volcanic origins have given birth to some of the most unusual and visually striking beaches in the Mediterranean.

• Red Beach: Located near Akrotiri, this beach is famous for its deep red cliffs and sand. Best for a short swim and stunning photography.
• Perissa and Perivolos Beaches: These neighboring beaches boast black volcanic sand and offer plenty of beach bars, water sports, and sunbeds.
• Kamari Beach: With its smooth black pebbles and family-friendly vibe, Kamari is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.

Take a Boat Tour of the Caldera and Volcanic Islands

A catamaran or sailing boat tour around the caldera is one of the most exhilarating ways to explore Santorini.

• Visit the active volcano on Nea Kameni, hike to the crater, and witness the island’s geothermal activity.
• Swim in the hot springs of Palea Kameni, with naturally warm, sulfur-rich waters.
• Enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and a traditional Greek BBQ onboard.

Choose between daytime tours for sightseeing or sunset cruises for a romantic evening with wine and dinner.

Marvel at the Sunset in Fira

While Oia is the most popular sunset spot, Fira, the capital of Santorini, offers equally magnificent views without the massive crowds.

• Dine at cliffside restaurants with a direct view of the setting sun over the caldera.
• Wander the charming alleyways and discover rooftop bars with panoramic vistas.
• Visit the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Fira is also the island’s central hub for nightlife, offering everything from jazz lounges to vibrant clubs.

Hike from Fira to Oia

The Fira to Oia hiking trail is a spectacular experience for those who want to immerse themselves in Santorini’s natural beauty.

• The 10 km (6 miles) hike takes about 2–4 hours, depending on pace and stops.
• Along the way, pass through Imerovigli and Firostefani, offering stunning caldera views.
• Highlights include the Skaros Rock, ancient chapels, and panoramic viewpoints.

Wear sturdy shoes, carry water, and avoid midday heat by starting early.

Taste the Local Santorinian Wines

Santorini is home to some of the oldest vineyards in the world, with wines made from indigenous grapes like Assyrtiko, Athiri, and Aidani.

• Visit renowned wineries like Santo Wines, Venetsanos, or Domaine Sigalas.
• Join a wine tasting tour that includes a visit to traditional wineries and cellars.
• Don’t miss tasting the sweet Vinsanto wine, made from sun-dried grapes.

The unique volcanic soil gives Santorini wines a distinctive mineral character found nowhere else.

Stay in a Luxury Cave Hotel

Experience the authentic charm of the island by booking a stay in a cave-style hotel carved into the caldera cliffs.

• Enjoy luxury amenities such as infinity pools, private jacuzzis, and sea-view balconies.
• Choose accommodations in Oia, Imerovigli, or Fira for the best views.
• Wake up to the sound of the Aegean waves and watch the sun rise over the caldera.

These hotels offer not just a place to sleep but an unforgettable experience that merges luxury with tradition.

Visit the Monastery of Profitis Ilias

Situated at the highest point of Santorini, the Monastery of Profitis Ilias offers panoramic views of the entire island.

• Explore the 18th-century monastery, dedicated to the Prophet Elijah.
• Discover the museum and library that house rare manuscripts and icons.
• Enjoy the peace and tranquility of the surrounding pine forests.

Located near the village of Pyrgos, this site is ideal for combining spiritual and scenic exploration.

Wander Through Pyrgos Village

Pyrgos is a lesser-known gem that retains the authentic feel of a traditional Greek village.

• Climb to the old Venetian castle for stunning 360-degree views.
• Visit quaint churches and chapels scattered throughout the village.
• Savor local dishes in family-run tavernas, away from the tourist crowds.

Pyrgos also hosts one of the most magical Easter celebrations in Greece, with candle-lit streets and spiritual ambiance.

Experience Traditional Greek Cuisine

Santorini’s cuisine reflects its rich agricultural heritage and seafaring tradition.

• Try fava, a smooth yellow split pea puree, and tomatokeftedes (tomato fritters).
• Dine on freshly caught seafood, grilled octopus, and local cheeses.
• Pair your meal with a crisp Santorini white wine for the perfect island meal.

Be sure to reserve a seat at a sunset-view restaurant to savor both the flavors and the scenery.

Take a Scenic Drive Around the Island

For those looking to discover hidden spots, renting a car or ATV opens the door to off-the-beaten-path experiences.

• Drive to Emporio, a quiet village with a medieval castle and narrow alleyways.
• Visit Megalochori, a picturesque village known for its wine history and architecture.
• Stop by remote churches like Panagia Episkopi, the oldest Byzantine church on the island.

Every turn offers a new surprise, whether it’s a charming chapel, a cliffside view, or a tucked-away taverna.

Conclusion

Santorini is more than just a beautiful island — it’s a complete sensory journey filled with history, culture, nature, and cuisine. Whether you’re watching a world-class sunset, sipping volcanic wine, or hiking along the caldera rim, every moment in Santorini offers unforgettable memories.