Top 42 Unforgettable Experiences in Santorini, Greece for 2025

Top Things to Do in Santorini

There is a reason that Santorini is one of Greece’s most popular destinations. Located in the Cyclades Islands of the Aegean Sea, Santorini is the perfect place to enjoy stunning sunsets, different-colored beaches, and the famed blue-dome churches. If a trip to this beautiful volcanic island is on your bucket list, these are the best things to do in Santorini, Greece.

Often touted as the most romantic destination in the world, Santorini Island was made for couples. Whether you want a romantic getaway, or just relax in amazing accommodations overlooking the caldera, Santorini will fulfill any travel dreams you may have. We suggest spending more than just one short day in Santorini. Instead, consider indulging in a stay at a luxury cave hotel suite with a beautiful infinity pool and breathtaking views.

Planning Your Trip To Santorini Right Now?

Below are some of the top tours in Santorini. Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting Santorini!

Top Activities and Tours in Santorini:

• Sunset Catamaran Cruise to Caldera and Hot Springs (Most Popular in Santorini)
• Private Helicopter Tour (Most Decadent)
• Private Photography Tour – (Best for Capturing Your Experience)
• Santorini Electric Bike Tour (Best Deal)

1. Get Lost in Oia

The most beautiful village in Santorini is Oia. The perfect whitewashed houses with blue doors epitomize what one thinks of when visiting Santorini. Don’t just visit Oia on a day tour; instead, stay overnight for a few days to explore and take in the gorgeous views of the caldera, getting lost in the maze of streets. Must-see places in Oia include the Oia Windmills, Oia Castle, and the Blue Domed Churches of Oia.

We spent a lot of our time exploring Oia. Even if you are not staying here, it’s worth spending a day to experience the side streets and hidden alleyways, go shopping, and hop from café to café for some amazing food.

You’ll find most of the famous views of Santorini in Oia, and when you step off the beaten path, you’ll discover several different views of the Caldera. Oia is where the iconic windmills, the blue-domed churches, and many other photo opportunities are located.

If you decide to stay in Oia, we suggest the Andronis Luxury Suites Hotel with an infinity pool and breathtaking views. TripAdvisor / Booking.com

2. Watch the Sunset in Oia

The sunset over the caldera is at the top of everyone’s must-see list when you are in Santorini. There is something extraordinary about the perfect blend of iconic blue dome churches, whitewashed buildings, and a golden sunset. However, due to its popularity, it is often crowded—so don’t expect to enjoy this place all to yourself. In our opinion, it’s worth braving the crowds for the views at least one of your nights on the island.

3. Oia Castle

If you want that classic shot, we suggest heading to the main viewing area near Oia Castle, an old Byzantine Castle at its highest point. This location offers the famous view with the windmills in the foreground contrasted against the beautiful sunset, creating a perfect backdrop for stunning pictures.

4. Blue Dome Churches

The three blue domes in the foreground make for a picturesque scene. If you explore around the immediate area, you’ll find other excellent vantage points, like the three bells that will provide even more incredible views. Regardless of where you venture, this is an absolute must-do when visiting Santorini.

5. Take a Sunset Catamaran Cruise

To truly appreciate the beauty of Santorini, consider taking a boat tour. You’ll marvel at the towering cliffs as you sail along the coast. Moreover, you can go snorkeling, visit lesser-known beaches, and swim in the volcanic hot springs bubbling up from the crater. Our tour included a seafood buffet, sunset views, and a fantastic crew.

There are several boat tours available around Santorini, and Get Your Guide offers easy cancellation options for many of them. We suggest a sunset cruise for some of the finest caldera views. We took this highly rated 3pm departure Catamaran Tour so that we could watch the sunset from our boat while exploring the hot springs. This is undoubtedly one of the top attractions in Santorini.

6. Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni (New & Old Kameni)

Located in the center of the caldera, these small volcanic islands are accessible by boat tour. On Nea Kameni, you can hike to the top of the active volcano, offering panoramic views. This easy hike is a highlight for many visitors.

7. Hike from Fira to Oia

One of the best free activities in Santorini is to hike from Fira to Oia. This scenic route takes you through the villages of Imerovigli and Firostefani while showcasing gorgeous views of the caldera. Stop for coffee or wine along the way in these charming towns.

The hike itself is approximately 9.5 km and will take you 4 to 5 hours, depending on how many stops you make. It has a mix of uphill and downhill sections, but most of it is paved, making it accessible. Once you finish, you can grab a bite to eat in Oia, enjoy the sunset, and either take a taxi or a bus back to your hotel.

A wonderful place to stay in Oia is the Andronis Luxury Cave Hotel and Suites. It offers a stunning, postcard-perfect view of the caldera from its infinity pool.

8. Visit Fira (Thira)

As the capital of Santorini, Fira is where all the cruise ships dock. This busy village is definitely worth a visit. Simply walking part of the path from Fira to Oia will provide a different perspective away from the crowds while showcasing local life and various views of the caldera.

• Recommended hotel in Fira – Suites of the Gods

9. Gaze over the Three Bells of Fira

One of the most famous spots in Santorini is the Three Bells of Fira. Located near the Three Blue Domed Church in Oia, these bells are among the most photographed sites.

To find these bells, head to Fira and search for the restaurant Mama Thira. From there, walk to the top of the cliff to the parking lot, where you will see the bells from above. Exploring Santorini through its narrow passageways adds to the authentic experience.

10. Take a Helicopter Tour

Seeing the island from above is an experience like no other. You can book a private helicopter flight over Santorini with a group of four to enjoy breathtaking views of the caldera and surrounding Greek islands along with the glimmering Aegean Sea.

11. Go Shopping in Fira

Fira is the busiest town in Santorini, making it perfect for shopping. While there are shops in Oia, Fira is where you’ll find the best Santorini souvenirs, nightclubs, bars, and restaurants to savor delightful local cuisine.

12. Ride the Santorini Cable Car

If your visit to Santorini is brief, consider riding the cable car from the old port to Fira Town for a quick ascent to appreciate more of the island. It has the capacity to transport 1200 people per hour, making it a convenient option for day-trippers.

If you are staying on the island, consider hiking down to the old port afterward and taking the cable car back up. Instead of relying on donkeys for the ascent, let them relax and keep the focus on enjoying your surroundings.

13. Take a Winery Tour with Wine Tasting

Santorini is home to some of the oldest vineyards in the world. Traces of winemaking have been found in the ancient city of Akrotiri. The high number of wineries in relation to land area makes it the densest wine region globally! Combine your visit with a sunset wine tour where you’ll visit three different wineries, culminating in a tasting with a view at sunset!

Wine tours are a popular activity and an excellent way to absorb the local culture while exploring more of the island. Santorini wines are distinct and delicious due to the volcanic soil. While Santo Wines is among the most popular, we preferred Venetsanos Winery, which is included in the tour mentioned above. Participating in a wine tasting tour helps to deepen your understanding of the wine region and its craft.

14. Santorini Wine Museum

A visit to the Santorini Wine Museum is a must to complement your wine tour. The museum is part of Koutsoyannopoulos Winery, one of the oldest family wineries in Santorini, providing insight into winemaking traditions that have been passed down through generations.

Located 8 meters below ground in a natural cave, the museum showcases a labyrinthine winery that dates back to the 19th century. Visitors can delve into the history of winemaking in Santorini, which spans over 3000 years, and learn about the evolution of winemaking practices.

15. Visit Perissa Beach (Black Sand Beach)

Perissa Beach, located in the south of Santorini, showcases a stunning black beach lined with beach bars, cafes, and restaurants—an ideal escape from the busy atmosphere of Oia. Spending a few nights here is highly recommended instead of limiting your experience to just a day trip.

Stretching an astounding 6 km long, the beach’s black volcanic sand lies between Perissa and Perivolos. We stayed nearby for two nights and truly enjoyed lounging on Black Beach all morning while sipping cappuccinos under our umbrella.

Suggested Hotels in Perissa

• Anastasia Princess Luxury Resort
• Kouros Village Hotel
• Meltemi Village Hotel

16. Kamari Beach

Located about 8 km from Fira, Kamari Beach is similar to Perissa Beach. Famed for its picturesque black sand and massive rock that separates it from Perissa, this beach offers amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, and ample watersports.

At Kamari Beach, you will also find great dining options and cozy cafes. Whether you choose Perissa or Kamari Beach, you won’t be disappointed. Recommended Hotel near the beaches – Suites of the Gods in Megalochori

17. Horseback Riding To Eros Beach

Santorini is well-acknowledged for its black sand beaches, and to make your experience even more romantic, consider booking a horseback riding tour on Eros Beach. The tour takes you through Megalochori Village, winding along vineyard paths before arriving at the iconic beach.

18. Perivolos Beach

Perivolos Beach, located on the southern coast of Santorini, is among the most beautiful and popular beaches on the island. The combination of black sand and pebbles, azure Aegean waters, and stunning surrounding cliffs create a picturesque spot perfect for relaxation.

This beach features numerous beach bars, cafes, and restaurants along the coast, offering everything from casual snacks to gourmet dining. It’s also a hotspot for water sports—whether you’re into jet skiing, paddleboarding, or windsurfing, there are plenty of options for adventure. Some operators also offer snorkeling and diving trips.

19. Hike to Red Beach

Located near the town of Akrotiri, Red Beach is spectacular, featuring high red sea cliffs that rise from a red sand beach. This sight requires a bit of a trek to reach, but boat tours often include a stop here for swimming.

This beach is a popular stop for day cruises, though it’s lovely to visit earlier in the day when crowds are lighter. Using our car rental, we drove to the parking lot, packed a picnic, and spent the morning soaking up the stunning views of Red Beach. Exercise caution when visiting, as there have been reports of rocks falling from the cliffs.

20. Visit White Beach

Just around the corner from Red Beach is White Beach, named for its surrounding white cliffs contrasting the red ones nearby. Interestingly, the sand here is actually black, a reminder of the island’s volcanic nature.

Taking a boat is the best way to access White Beach. We parked at Red Beach and took a water taxi there; alternatively, you can gain a view of it from a boat tour if desired.

21. Get off the Beaten Path in Pyrgos

Located in the foothills of Mount Profitis Ilias, Pyrgos is a small town that was once the capital of Santorini. This medieval settlement is a hidden gem well worth exploring. We loved wandering through its back streets, appreciating the laid-back atmosphere that contrasts with busier areas like Fira and Oia.

22. Profitis Ilia Monastery: the Best View of Santorini

While in Pyrgos, we recommend visiting the Profitis Ilia Monastery. You can hike or drive up to its location. Regardless of how you reach it, you won’t be disappointed by the panoramic views of the entire island from this elevation.

Mont Profitis rises to 584 meters above sea level, featuring the oldest monastery on the island located just 3 km from Pyrgos. Visiting during sunset provides a particularly stunning view.

23. Explore Akrotiri Archeological Site

Greece is widely known for its ancient ruins, and Santorini is no exception. The ancient city of Akrotiri dates back to the Bronze Age (3000 – 1200 BC). This archaeological site was buried under volcanic ash, which remarkably preserved its antiquities and frescoes. While it’s a popular tourist destination, visiting the town of Akrotiri offers a quaint village vibe that is delightful.

24. Visit The Akrotiri Lighthouse

Located at the southern tip of Santorini, the Akrotiri Lighthouse provides yet another stunning viewpoint. It makes a perfect alternative location to Oia for sunset viewing, easily reached by car or ATV. The tranquil atmosphere allows a romantic setting for enjoying a bottle of wine and some food.

Don’t expect too much from the lighthouse itself; the breathtaking views and serene environment are the real attraction here.

25. Visit the Museums of Prehistoric Thera

If you’re fond of museums and want to dive into Santorini’s history, make sure to visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera. The finds from the Akrotiri excavations provide insight into the ancient city destroyed by a massive volcanic eruption in 1600 BC, which left many artifacts remarkably preserved thanks to the ash that covered it. The highlight? Fossilized olive tree leaves found within the caldera.

26. Archaeological Museum of Thera

In the town of Fira, you can also explore the Archaeological Museum of Thera. This museum highlights collections from various sites around Santorini. If you’re traveling with family, it’s a great opportunity to spend a few hours enriching your knowledge about the island’s history.

27. Explore Ancient Thera

Situated atop Mesa Vouno Mountain, nestled between Perissa and Kamari beaches, the remnants of Ancient Thera are a must-visit. This well-preserved settlement owes its preservation to the volcanic ash, giving visitors breathtaking views all around.

Reaching Ancient Thera can be accomplished by hiking from either Perissa or Kamari, both of which take about an hour. Alternatively, you can take the winding road from Kamari, which is better suited for an ATV than a rental car.

28. Book a Quad Bike Tour

If renting a car is not your preference, consider booking a quad bike tour. This ATV tour includes lunch and takes you through local villages and beaches, allowing you to immerse yourself in the culture.

29. Enjoy a Greek Cooking Class

Learning to cook traditional Greek food was one of the highlights of our journey in Greece. We often take cooking classes while traveling, and the flavors of Greek cuisine are some of the most delightful.

Participating in a cooking class while on the island makes it a unique experience to relive your Santorini trip when you return home. So take a cooking class in Santorini that includes a wine-tasting experience at two wineries, culminating with the opportunity to savor the dishes you’ve prepared!

30. Sunset Dine at Amoudi Bay

Make sure to walk down the path to Oia’s Amoudi Bay. The journey consists of 300 steps down to a unique ambiance different from the bustling Oia. The small village features several tavernas and a popular beach. For an adventurous twist, consider cliff jumping!

Visiting in the late afternoon is ideal for snuggling up in a taverna and enjoying the sunset view.

31. Stay In A Cave Hotel

One of the captivating aspects of Santorini lies in the luxury and charm of white cave hotels. Upon stepping out of your taxi for the first time, the majestic view will genuinely take your breath away. Read our full guide: Where to Stay in Santorini

Upon my initial encounter with Santorini’s beauty, I gasped in awe. If there’s ever a time to splurge on accommodations, this is the moment! We experienced three luxury hotels in Santorini, each enriching our journey with unique experiences, private terraces, and hot tubs—with Hotel Iconic in Imerovigli offering a prime luxury experience.

32. Lookout from Infinity Pools

Santorini is widely renowned for its infinity pools that overlook the caldera. When selecting a hotel, opt for one with a swimming pool providing views of the caldera. Suggested Oia hotel with an infinity pool view: Andronis Luxury Cave Hotel in Oia.

Although the crowds in Fira, Oia, and Imerovigli can be overwhelming, a stay in a cave hotel allows you to bask in the sun by the infinity pool in peace. No matter how busy the streets of Santorini become, your sanctuary awaits within your quiet retreat.

33. Dine with a View of Santorini

Many restaurants in Oia serve mouth-watering Greek cuisine. Some of the finest eateries are located inland along the many cobblestone streets, yet nothing compares to dining with a view over one of the world’s most magnificent backdrops.

• Suggested restaurants: See Trip Advisor Reviews for Oia Restaurants.
  • Lauda Restaurant
  • Pelicanos
  • Petrosia

34. Scuba Diving in Santorini

If you’ve ever dreamt of diving in a caldera, this scuba diving experience lets you explore the volcanic intricacies of the Santorini caldera. Enjoy dives that include wrecks, caverns, volcanic reefs, and wall dives, all while relishing beautiful underwater sights along with breathtaking views of the entire island from the perspective of the sea.

35. Have a Fish Pedicure

It may not be the conventional thing to do in Santorini, but after all that walking, treating your feet to a fish spa is a delightful change of pace. We were always curious about fish spas in destinations like Thailand or Cambodia, so when we spotted one in Oia, we couldn’t resist the opportunity!

36. Hike out to Skaros Rock

Skaros Rock, a former fortress and prominent headland, is a must-see spot from most caldera-side hotels. Located at the tip of Imerovigli, you’ll likely pass it if you hike from Fira to Oia. The hike to Skaros Rock takes about 30 minutes along a scenic trail, granting incredible viewpoints of both the north and south ends of the island as well as the Caldera itself.

The pathway begins at the winding staircase just below the Grace Hotel in Imerovigli. The trek is generally straightforward (though lacking definitive signs) and only becomes slightly challenging at its endpoint.

37. Watch a Movie in the Open Air Cinema

If you’re in search of a unique experience, check out the open-air cinema in Kamari village. When traveling, we often miss the joy of going to the movies, so it’s a treat to have a casual evening out. Catch a movie with a glass of wine and popcorn while situated on the beach! Kamari is one of the most frequented beaches in Santorini, and numerous accommodations are available nearby.

38. Get Lost in Imerovigli

Exploring the various villages on Santorini is best achieved by renting a car. We found a fantastic deal in the offseason on a compact car and set out daily for new adventures. Renting a car in Santorini is one of the best ways to discover secluded beaches, hidden restaurants, and charming local markets.

Imerovigli, situated between Fira and Oia, is among the best places to stay in Santorini. It’s just as beautiful as its busier neighbors but less crowded. Expect to see stunning whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and extraordinary sunsets over the caldera. Consider staying at the Iconic Santorini and enjoying delightful breakfasts on your balcony while sipping fresh yogurt while watching the sunrise.

39. Firostefani

The picturesque village of Firostefani lies to the north of Santorini, a short walk from the island’s capital, Fira. The name “Firostefani” translates to “Crown of Fira,” which is fitting as it sits atop the cliffs with stunning views of the caldera.

Firostefani, like its neighboring Fira and Oia, offers spectacular views of the caldera. The contrast between the whitewashed buildings and the blue sea and sky is breathtaking, especially during sunset—making it a fantastic spot for photographers and nature lovers alike. The iconic blue domed church, Agios Theodoros, is among the most photographed landmarks on the island and is located in Firostefani.

40. Thirassia Island

For a day on the sea, this full-day boat tour offers stunning views of the caldera cliffs and leads to Thirassia island, where you can swim in hot springs and relax on the beach. You’ll also visit the charming village of Manola and conclude your day in Oia to witness its incredible sunset.

41. Jet Ski Safari

If you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, consider booking a Jet Ski Safari. This tour includes a thrilling jet ski ride from Perivolis Beach, taking you along the coast of Santorini to explore its stunning natural landscape.

42. Marvel at the Caldera

The magnificent Santorini Caldera resulted from a massive volcanic eruption in 1620 BC. This eruption formed the island, which many regard as the legendary lost city of Atlantis. To fully enjoy the enchanting views, ensure you book a cave hotel that overlooks the caldera for unobstructed views from sunrise to sunset.

Getting around Santorini

When planning your visit to Santorini, we highly recommend renting a car. You can find small cars at reasonable prices right on the island, either at the airport or by booking in advance.

If renting a car isn’t your preference, Santorini has an excellent transportation system. You can take a local bus from the airport to Fira, and buses also connect Oia, Imerovigli, Perissa, Kamari, and Akrotiri.

Get Your Guide offers airport transfers and transfer services around the island. However, as of now, there is no Uber or Lyft service in Santorini. Taxis are plentiful, but be sure to agree on the fare before getting in.

How Long Should You Spend in Santorini?

We recommend a minimum of three days to enjoy Santorini fully. This duration allows you to visit the main villages of Oia, Imerovigli, and Fira at a comfortable pace.

We spent 8 days in Santorini, though that length isn’t necessary. However, we found this duration ideal for balancing relaxation with exploration. If you can manage a week, that would be even better!

Day 1 – Devote your first day to shopping in Fira, taking in views from the cable car and overlooking the caldera, then hike from Fira to Oia, where you can admire the blue domes and visit Amoudi Bay. End your day watching the sunset at Oia Castle, followed by traditional Greek dining overlooking the caldera.

Day 2 – Spend your second day at one of the beaches, such as Perissa or Kamari, then consider a sunset tour to Red Beach and the Hot Springs.

Day 3 – Use this day to immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting historical sites like Akrotiri or Ancient Thera, followed by a visit to the former capital, Pyrgos. Conclude your day with a tranquil sunset wine tasting.

Three days is just enough to explore Santorini, but to truly absorb its magic, we recommend a week. You’ll want time to enjoy relaxing moments by your infinity pool, experience solitude in a cave hotel, and savor many exceptional dining experiences.

We advise splitting your accommodations between one of the high-caldera villages and a resort in Perissa or Kamari. Four days in Oia, Fira, or Imerovigli, followed by three days at the beach should suffice!

Note: We opted for 2 nights in Imerovigli, 3 nights in Oia, and 3 beach nights, which allowed us to visit all the best sites at our own pace. For more information, check out Where to Stay in Santorini.

Following our time in Santorini, we caught the ferry to Crete and continued our Greek adventure!

How to get to Santorini, Greece

We flew from Santorini to Athens. The journey was quick and straightforward, and by booking our flight and accommodation together, we saved significantly. Flights from Athens to Santorini occur daily, along with ferries operating year-round.

We departed Santorini via a direct ferry to Crete. Ferries operate daily from the old port, and we easily secured a ferry to Crete to continue exploring the Greek Islands. For ferry details, consult The Ferry Hopper.

Day Trips to Other Greek Islands

Santorini serves as a great starting point for visiting neighboring Greek islands. This private boat tour accommodates up to 9 individuals. You can choose to privately rent a RIB equipped with a 225hp Mercury outboard engine (a boat license is required) or hire a skipper for island hopping adventures.

Islands available for exploration include Anafi, Ios, Folegandros, Mykonos, Paros, Naxos, Milos, Koufonisia, Sikinos, Serifos, Sifnos, Delos, and Kythnos.

Best Things to Do in Santorini FAQ

What should I not miss in Santorini?

If your time in Santorini is limited, don’t miss seeing the blue dome churches in Oia and catching the sunset from the castle. Additionally, consider taking a catamaran tour to Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni, the active volcanic islands, to swim in the hot springs and enjoy panoramic views.

What should we do in Santorini?

The ultimate highlight of Santorini is undoubtedly the renowned blue domes of Oia and its dramatic cliffs plunging into the caldera. It is advisable to book accommodations with an infinity pool that provides expansive views of the Aegean Sea.

What is Santorini best known for?

Santorini is most famous for its stunning whitewashed villages and iconic blue domes perched on high cliffs that overlook the caldera.

Are things expensive in Santorini?

The luxury cave hotels in Santorini are naturally on the pricey side, but visiting during the shoulder seasons (autumn and spring) can yield better deals. There are affordable accommodations available to suit various budgets.

We thoroughly enjoyed our time in Santorini. If you’re contemplating planning a trip to this enchanting island, we hope the ideas provided here help to illustrate the best things to do in Santorini. We would love to hear about your favorite experiences in Santorini, as we’re sure we missed some!

Plan your Trip to Santorini and the Rest of Greece With these Resources!

• Where to stay in Santorini